Tenzin Sewo (CH): Managing the Dalai Lama’s Foundation & The Reality of Special Needs Parenting

What happens when you manage the legacy of the world's most compassionate figure, but face a reality at home that no amount of prayer can fix?Tenzin Sewo holds a unique position: He is the Executive Director of the Gaden Phodrang Foundation of the Dalai Lama in Switzerland. But when the office lights turn off, he faces a different kind of challenge.Seven years ago, his eldest daughter was diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid syndrome at the age of three, a rare genetic condition. In this vulnerable and raw conversation, Tenzin steps out from behind his official title to talk about the side of life that press releases don't cover.We discuss:The Gatekeeper: What it’s really like to work for the Dalai LamaThe Diagnosis Trauma: A critique of how the medical system delivers bad news and treats disabled children like "objects."Karma vs. Genetics: Navigating the cultural stigma of disability in the Tibetan community.The "Selfish" Parent: Why Tenzin believes you must be selfish to be a good caregiver.Two Worlds: Balancing life as a Tibetan-Swiss in Zurich.SUPPORT this podcastOUT OF TIBET is a free podcast. If you’d like to support this podcast financially, please check out:Patreon, Buy me a coffee and PaypalFollow me on Instagram: @namridagyabMusic by Prod.PluvioIf this conversation moved you, please leave a 5-star rating and share it with a friend who needs to hear it.