Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck with David Nichtern

With both insight and vulnerability, Author Annette Knopp explores how our earliest attachment experiences shape the way we love, relate, and walk in this world.Help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and preserve the complete Ram Dass Here and Now archive. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Give here: BHNN 10th Birthday FundraiserIn this episode, David and Annette chat about:Connecting to our own personal experiences within a creative processThe intersection of healing and liberationAnnette’s journey through complex post-traumatic stress disorderHow our unhealed parental projections create issues within our relationships Attachment trauma and somatic healing workHow our psychological blueprint begins as early as the wombThe theory of being a ‘good enough’ parent 30% of the timeOffering repair and having a baseline of secure attachment Working with our unmet needs through awareness and observationLooking at the message (imprint) rather than the messenger (trigger)The motherly presence that is within the path of healingJoin Dharma Moon’s for their 100-hour course on teaching mindfulness meditation or for a course on meditation and embodied wisdom About Annette Knopp:Annette Knopp is the author of Mystic Nomad: A Woman's Wild Journey to True Connection and co-founder of Blue Spirit Retreat Center in Costa Rica. A meditation teacher, somatic educator, and nature mystic rooted in 30 years of personal contemplative practice, she weaves Indo-Tibetan meditation, Andean earth-based practices, and modern Western approaches to trauma resolution into transformative teaching and mentorship. Her work bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary healing in service of human dignity, wholeness, and embodied connection.Grab a copy of Annette’s book, Mystic Nomad: A Woman's Wild Journey to True Connection, or join her in Costa Rica for an upcoming retreat. “These imprints are laid down in phases before we have the brain development to have even a narrative around it. When we work in trauma with people, it’s all about making what has been implicit, explicit.” –Annette KnoppSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Student of The Art of War, Jim Gimian, shares how we can relate constructively to conflict and win without fighting.In this episode, David and Jim have a conversation about:The classic Chinese text, The Art of War, by Sun TzuThe refined wisdom of understanding conflict‘Taking Whole’: the concept of winning without fightingHow leaders (and all people) can learn from The Art of WarPast conflicts, karma, and vicious coincidenceBeing present for the opportunities that arriveLetting phenomena play rather than counteractingHow the brain is hard-wired for bias and predictionTapping into our natural connection to othersRuthlessly evaluating your biases & projections out of compassion for the bigger wholeRealistically dealing with challenges without perpetuating aggressionCheck out Jim Gimian's course, Rules of Victory, to learn about leadership strategies for today’s challenges from The Art of War. You can also inquire about getting personalized coaching from him!Join Dharma Moon’s for their 100-hour course on teaching mindfulness meditation About Jim Gimian:James Gimian has been studying and teaching The Art of War (the Sun Tzu Bing Fa) since 1980. He served as the general editor of the best-selling translation The Art of War: The Denma Translation (2001) which received critical acclaim from military officers, business leaders, and Asian Studies scholars. Gimian followed that with The Rules of Victory: How to Transform Chaos and Conflict—Strategies from the Art of War (2008), co-authored with Barry Boyce.Gimian has been presenting lessons from the Art of War to business and non-profit leaders in North America, Australia, and Europe since 1985. His work takes the form of seminars, leadership training programs, consulting, and coaching. The core of this work is presenting the text’s profound strategic thought in clear, simple, and accessible training that enables today’s leaders to employ these tools in their work and lives amidst the challenges of an increasingly complex and uncertain world.Gimian has served in leadership roles in the magazine and book publishing industry since 1972, including stints at Shambhala Publications, publisher of Lion’s Roar magazine, and most recently founding publisher of Mindful magazine and Mindful.org, a media launch in 2012 that has grown to reach over 2 million people per month. Gimian also founded Trident Booksellers and Café in Boulder, Colorado in 1980, which continues to serve as an employee-owned community institution. He became a student of the Venerable Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche in the early 1970s and has continued the practice and study of the dharma since that time. Gimian currently serves as the Executive Director of the Foundation for a Mindful Society.“The problem with complex systems to fix things is you never have time to go back and read the manual when shit hits the fan. That’s why this work has to be at the level of being, not at the level of learning tricks because they’re like bandages, they’re going to fall off. You’re only going to respond with whatever is integrated into your being as a way of seeing the world and acting and being in the world.“ –Jim GimianSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Sará King and Kierstin Gray join The CSM Podcast to discuss their tech company, MindHeart AI, which uses an interactive map of human awareness for personal health and planetary well-being.MindHeart AI is a liberatory technology company centering the neuroscience of well being as a catalyst for intergenerational planetary healing. Utilizing the Systems Based Awareness Map, the world’s first interactive map of human awareness, they are building a scalable, equitable platform combined with experiences that they call MindHeart Activations - in person events that support collective healing through combining culturally relevant forms of somatics, contemplative practices, land-based rituals and retreats, music and art. MindHeart AI is designed to create an infrastructure of care as a loving response to the rising loneliness, stress, isolation and depression experienced across the world. In this episode, David, Sará and Kierstin:Taking responsibility for the technology we createReducing the harm that human beings are doing to the planet and each other AI as a reflection of ourselves for better understanding of our emotions and identity The way that humans influence AI, for better and worseEmpowering others to create MindHeart Activations in their community The connection between water scarcity, trauma, and AIDr. Sará’s contribution to the documentary Every Living ThingHolding collective grief and sadness while still tapping into our agency Join Dharma Moon’s for a free online talk about embodied wisdom on Thursday May 14th or sign up for their 100-hour course on teaching mindfulness meditation About Dr. Sará King:Dr. Sará King is a Mother, a neuroscientist, political and learning scientist, medical anthropologist, social entrepreneur, public speaker, and certified yoga and meditation instructor. She is an internationally recognized thought leader in the interdisciplinary field that examines the relationship between complementary alternative medicine, social justice, art, and mindfulness from the perspective of neuroscience. Dr. King is the co-founder of MindHeart AI. Keep up with Dr. King on Instagram or HEREAbout Kierstin Gray:Kierstin Grey is the program director at Argodesign and the co-founder of MindHeart AI. She is a consultant specializing in using technology and service design thinking principles to bring about transformative change for her clients. She has designed a framework that centers around the building of narratives that use existing talents and skills within an organization to enable innovative change to resolve business problems. Combined with the best practices of design and delivery, she helps businesses implement products and projects that meet their business objectives and cultivate deeper and more efficient engagement with customers.  “If we’re confused, AI is going to be confused. That’s the reason why it's important for us to be clear on who we are, what we believe, who we value, how we love, how we relate to each other—those things influence how we design emergent technologies like AI.” –Kierstin GraySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author and executive Bryan Welch shares how the grief of losing his child profoundly reshaped his heart, deepening his capacity for connection and compassion toward others.Grab a copy of Bryan’s book, The Gift of a Broken Heart, HEREIn this episode, David and Bryan chat about:How grief can transform us in a beautiful wayBryan’s journey through the loss of his son, NoahDeveloping a deeper sense of compassion through Buddhism Grief as a bridge of connection between ourselves and othersAllowing ourselves to be vulnerable Narratives of our own safety as narratives of superiority Forgiveness and considering how the ego wants to be responsibleOur involuntary reactions to grief, when compared to those of animals Permission to cry & the relief we can feel from allowing emotions to wash over us Sign up for Dharma Moon’s upcoming 8-week Buddhist Psychology Course HERE.About Bryan Welch:Bryan Welch is an author, business executive, farmer, and entrepreneur. For nineteen years, from its founding, he ran Ogden Publications, Mother Earth News, Mother Earth Living, Utne Reader, and several other leading media brands focused on sustainability and natural health. More recently, he served as co-CEO of Silk Grass Holdings, a family office developing 32,000 acres of regenerative organic farms and wildlife preserves in Belize. He was founder and CEO of B The Change Media, a multiplatform media company focused on business as a force for good in the world; and was CEO of Mindful Communications, a media and corporate meditation-training company; and CEO of Foster Care Technologies, a B Corporation that provides software that improves placements of children in foster care. Welch has served on the boards of the Silk Grass Farms, the Magazine Publishers Association, the Social Venture Network, Down Home Ranch Foundation, and several nonprofits. He has also served on corporate boards of directors and advisory boards of companies involved in natural foods, agriculture, food processing, e-commerce, corporate training, and the media. He holds a master’s degree from Harvard University, where he studied at the Kennedy School of Government and Harvard Business School. As a Buddhist, Welch is a longtime meditator and advocate for mindfulness practices. Keep up with Bryan on Facebook and check out thegiftofabrokenheart.com.“I spent some energy over the course of my life separating myself psychologically from the suffering from others, from the potential for my own suffering, and when I was up against it, I didn’t have those reasons to separate myself any longer. I felt a new sense of kinship with other people who were suffering. It occurred to me that as part of the healing, I wanted to see if I could preserve the new warmth I felt, the new openheartedness I felt. When your child dies of mental illness and addiction, you don’t want the pain and turmoil to be their legacy.” –Bryan WelchSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blending creativity, business, and parenthood, Jonathan and Miya Eden join David Nichtern to discuss bringing stories to life through animation.Today’s podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, David, Jonathan and Miya explore:How Jonathan and Miya met and became both personal and creative collaboratorsThe process of animating and creating content for Pengwee and Ruby Animating meditative processes and a modified story of the BuddhaThe impact of Miya’s late grandmother on her life and creative process A special hello from Arthur, Miya and Jonathan’s young sonHow to hold space for career development, creative pursuits, and being a parentThe business side of creative work and dealing with finances, problem-solving, etc.Why creativity and bringing entertainment to others is so important to JonathanAbout Jonathan and Miya Eden:With a degree in Character Animation from the California Institute of Arts (CalArts 2012) Jonathan Eden has over a decade of rich experience in the field of Animation. Working currently as an Animator for Comedy Central's Emmy-winning South Park, Jonathan has a history of prestigious work from large networks which include Disney, Hasbro, and HBO; as well as animating projects for the New York Times, Thom Browne, and Cubcoats. Miya, a professional dancer, choreographer, and director, came together with Jonathan to help create quality animation content for Strawberry Moons Media. You can learn more about Jonathan and Miya’s other creative projects, HERE at Nobody Couple Studios.Check out Strawberry Moons Media on YouTube, where you can find access to entertainment with meaning, mindful living tips, and mindful lessons for children. About David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings, integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award-winning musician. David’s journey has crisscrossed with the Maharaji/Ram Dass sangha for decades. He has produced multiple Krishna Das albums and frequently joins the Bhaktettes live on guitar. He considers himself to be a first cousin and an honorary member of the Bhakti community. “For me, creativity is about expressing yourself and your unique view and doing it in a way that can bring either joy or entertainment to others. Seeing people react to something I’ve animated or a drawing is a great feeling, it’s something you’ve uniquely created with your perspective that no one else can do.” –Jonathan EdenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discussing their newest project, Strawberry Moons Media, David Nichtern and Debbie Nutley get into how they truly merged creativity with spirituality and ‘making a buck’.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on the CSM Podcast, David and Debbie share about:The creation of Strawberry Moons Media as a hub for conscious creators and spiritual storytellers Having a ‘sky view’ perspective while also staying grounded and executing dreams here on earthExperiencing Buddhism and meditation in a way that is accessible, engaging, and entertainingDebbie’s inspiration behind Pengwee and Ruby, two mindful penguin best friends who teach compassion and playfulnessHow music bypasses the logical mind, opening the door to intuition and emotional depthRediscovering our natural state as intuitive, spiritual beingsBreaking down superficiality to reconnect with the sacred and the beyondCheck out Strawberry Moons Media on YouTube, where you can find access to entertainment with meaning, mindful living tips, and mindful lessons for children. You can also keep up with Strawberry Moons on Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok.About Debbie Nutley:Debbie Nutley is an award-winning children's picture book author, certified meditation instructor and trained to teach mindfulness to children. Her picture books, Pengwee's Breath and Ruby's Heart Song, both contain engaging stories involving two adorable and best friend penguins. Each story weaves lessons of mindfulness and social-emotional learning. Always finding inspiration in music, Debbie collaborated with composer and songwriter Wells Hanley to create a musical rendition of the signature song embedded in the story of Ruby's Heart Song. Debbie has a large extended family with a cadre of kids. Eons ago, Debbie was an accomplished attorney and human resources leader. Then she sat still for a moment, took a few mindful breaths, and forged a path of purpose-driven and creative endeavors. Keep up with Debbie on her Instagram and learn more about her books on her website. “The whole reason why I decided to publish children’s books about mindfulness, and Pengwee and Ruby are these adorable, mindful, heart-centered penguins, they’re best friends, the whole reason I did it is because I thought it would be great for kids to learn about mindfulness at a young age. That it would be a better world if every kid knew about this stuff.” –Debbie NutleyAbout David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award-winning musician. David’s journey has crisscrossed with the Maharaji/Ram Dass sangha for decades. He has produced multiple Krishna Das albums and frequently joins the Bhaktettes live on guitar. He considers himself to be a first cousin and an honorary member of the Bhakti community.Move from practitioner to teacher via Dharma Moon’s  100-Hour Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training,or, consider a year long Buddhist Studies certificate with Ethan Nichtern.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dissecting the process of her book, The Power of Meaning, Emily Esfahani Smith joins David to explore bringing depth to our lives via belonging, purpose, transcendence, and storytelling.Pick up Emily's book, The Power of Meaning, HERE.This time on the CSM Podcast, David and Emily discuss:Positive Psychology: shifting from a focus on what’s wrong to the science of well-being and human flourishingHow connecting to something greater than ourselves can lead to self-transcendence and deeper meaningWhat scientific research reveals about activities that create a meaningful lifeMaking intentional, values-aligned choices instead of following external pressuresEmily’s four pillars of meaning: belonging, purpose, transcendence, and storytellingFinding true community and belonging without reinforcing exclusion or “othering”How cultural values are evolving toward greater empathy, compassion, and collective careThe bodhicitta aspiration: working toward the end of suffering for all beingsStart your journey from meditation practitioner to meditation guide via Dharma Moon’s course, Deepening Your Practice to Teach or step on into their 100-Hour Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training. About Emily Esfahani Smith:Emily Esfahani Smith is the author of The Power of Meaning. A psychotherapist and writer, her articles have appeared in The Atlantic, the New York Times, and the Wall Street Journal. Her TED Talk, 'There's more to life than being happy,' has been viewed over 15 million times." Learn more on Emily’s website. “The more I got into the research, the more that I saw that maybe it’s not happiness that we should be pursuing and glorifying, but maybe it’s this concept of leading a meaningful life.” – Emily Esfahani SmithAbout David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy Award-winning musician. David’s journey has crisscrossed with the Maharaji/Ram Dass sangha for decades. He has produced multiple Krishna Das albums and frequently joins the Bhaktettes live on guitar. He considers himself to be a first cousin and an honorary member of the Bhakti community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blending together Bhakti and Buddhism, best of friends Krishna Das and David Nichtern discuss the gradual cultivation of practice and finding your ‘niche’ within the dharma.Join the Wisdom & Wellbeing Week 1 Intensive with Krishna Das & Nina Rao | January 3 - 10, 2026 | Click to Learn MoreThis episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, David and Krishna Das thoughtfully explore:Leaning into the dharma and gradually planting seeds of spiritual practice Giving oneself fully to whatever one is doing in daily life and in practiceDeepening concentration and devotion in the Bhakti yoga traditionUsing the breath as an anchor for mindfulnessThe story of Hanuman and how he represents the strength to remove obstaclesThe Amitabha Mantra, a powerful Buddhist tool for purificationKrishna Das’ reflections on a bucket list: seeking out more stability, remembrance, and selfless serviceStability, clarity, and emotional resilience as the byproducts of mindfulness meditationHonoring the diversity of spiritual paths and listening deeply to what resonates with the individual soulAbout Krishna Das:Layering traditional Hindu kirtan with instantly accessible melodies and modern instrumentation, Grammy nominee Krishna Das has been called yoga’s “rock star.” With a remarkably soulful voice that touches the deepest chord in even the most casual listener, Krishna Das – known to friends, family, and fans as simply KD – has taken the call-and-response chanting out of yoga centers and into concert halls, becoming a worldwide icon and the best-selling chant artist of all time. His album ‘Live Ananda’ (released January 2012) was nominated for a Grammy in the Best New Age album category.KD spent the late ’60s traveling across the country as a student of Ram Dass, and in August 1970, he finally made the journey to India, which led him to Ram Dass’ own beloved guru, Neem Karoli Baba, known to most as Maharaj-ji. Krishna Das now travels the world sharing his kirtan practice and wonderful stories of his life, of Maharaji-ji, of his life on the Path and discusses bringing chanting into our lives through retreats and workshops. To date, KD has released 15 well-received albums, most recently Trust in the Heart released in October 2017.Join Krishna Das in Boone, North Carolina this August for the fourth annual Ram Dass Legacy Summer Mountain Retreat.MORE INFORMATION and OFFERINGS VISIT: https://krishnadas.com/ KRISHNA DAS ON SOCIAL: FACEBOOK: facebook.com/KrishnaDasMusic INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/krishnadasmusic YOUTUBE: / krishnadasmusic X: @krishnadas #KrishnaDasAbout David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy award-winning musician. David’s journey has crisscrossed with the Maharaji/Ram Dass sangha for decades. He has produced multiple Krishna Das albums and frequently joins the Bhaktettes live on guitar. He considers himself to be a first cousin and honorary member of the Bhakti community.Head over to DharmaMoon to sign up for The Body of Meditation Teacher Training Course, starting July 10th, 2025.“There’s not spiritual life and worldly life, there’s just your life—you’ve got to live it. If you don’t develop some inner strength, will, and direction in daily things, when you sit down on the mat it’s not going to be any different. How you sit is how you live, and how you live is how you sit.” – Krishna DasSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Old friends Sharon Salzberg and David Nichtern meet to discuss the calamity of misplaced faith and the expansion that can come from individualized social action.Join Sharon's Upcoming Course with Tricycle to uncover your Buddhist Personality TypeThis episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This week on the CSM podcast, David and Sharon have a thought-provoking conversation about:Expanding the definition of social action to include art and genuine spiritual practiceLooking deeper into the root cause of social problemsAttempting to bring Buddhist teachings into a democracyMisplaced faith and the three root poisons in Buddhism - Grasping, Aversion, and DelusionPurification: going beyond awareness and into the elbow grease required for actually changing negative patternsThe building blocks of real mindfulness and incorporating many different practicesKali Yuga, considering the state of the world, and trying to remain optimistic Understanding the consequences of our actions and our role in the collectiveHow we relate to unchosen suffering and chosen suffering Sign up for Dharma Moon’s Summer 100-Hour Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training Course with David Nichtern, starting June 13th. Or, for a shortened version, join Dharma Moon for an Introductory Weekend Course on the Path of Meditation and Mindfulness.About Sharon Salzberg:Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She is one of the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 45 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is co-founder of The Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, and the author of twelve books, including the New York Times bestseller, Real Happiness, now in its second edition, and her seminal work, Lovingkindness. Her podcast, The Metta Hour, has amassed five million downloads and features interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond. Learn more about Sharon and her books at www.sharonsalzberg.comAbout David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy award-winning musician. David’s journey has crisscrossed with the Maharaji/Ram Dass sangha for decades. He has produced multiple Krishna Das albums and frequently joins the Bhaktettes live on guitar. He considers himself to be a first cousin and honorary member of the Bhakti community."There's this saying going around that action absorbs anxiety. If you're feeling really anxious, uptight, take action. Action might not mean marching, signing a petition, or vocalizing, it may mean helping your neighbor." – Sharon SalzbergSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meditation teacher, Susan Piver, joins David Nichtern to share her profound and ever-evolving connection to The Heart Sutra.Learn about the heart and mind of practice with David Nichtern and Krishna Das in an upcoming free online talk! Register HERE.In this episode, David Nichtern and Susan Piver explore:The many variations of The Heart Sutra and why it deeply inspires SusanFocusing on the sound of the words in The Heart Sutra, not just the meaning of the words Considering how a sutra can transform an environment and how an environment can transform a sutra The inseparability of meaning, sound, and atmosphere within the Heart Sutra A reading of The Heart Sutra from Susan Piver Tying our daily lives back to some form of study or practiceEmptiness as the main theme of The Heart Sutra, and of the Buddhist arena in general Why Buddhist emptiness is not nihilism but an expansive, liberating insightThe transformative value of being around someone wise with skillful meansAbout Susan Piver:Susan Piver has an international reputation as an exceptionally skillful meditation teacher. She teaches workshops and speaks on mindfulness, innovation, communication, relationships, and creativity. Susan has been a student of Buddhism since 1995, graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004, and was authorized to teach meditation in 2005. In 2012, she founded The Open Heart Project, the world’s largest online-only meditation center. Susan is also a New York Times bestselling author. Her most recent book, Inexplicable Joy: On the Heart Sutra, is now available. You can keep up with Susan on Instagram or on her website.Join Susan for a 10-day Heart Sutra meditation retreat this August, 2025 “Emptiness sounds like everything’s dead, but empty doesn’t mean that. It means empty of separate existence. You are here due to causes and conditions. You did not get here in a space capsule. So, emptiness could be expressed more accurately as the great expanse, fullness, complete fullness.” – Susan PiverSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Facing the obstacles on a spiritual path, Lama Rod Owens, David Nichtern, and Michael Kammers, discuss the seven sorrows of the new saint.Grab Lama Rod’s new book, The New Saints: From Broken Hearts to Spiritual WarriorsIn this episode, David, Michael and Lama Rod chat about:Realizing that liberation is driven by uncomfortable contradictionsThe seven great sorrows of the new saintLeaving people behind on a spiritual journeyOffering space to paradoxes in order to find claritySupport on the Boddhisatva pathFocusing our energy on ourselvesPrayer as an imperative part of spiritual workBeing relevant and speaking the language of the timesTeachers who inspired and helped Lama RodBeing yourself and using your own qualities to help othersCommitment to a reduction of violenceGetting active in getting freeAbout Lama Rod Owens:Lama Rod Owens is a Black Buddhist Southern Queen. An international influencer with a Master of Divinity degree in Buddhist Studies from Harvard Divinity School with a focus on the intersection of social change, identity, and spiritual practice. Author of Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation through Anger and co-author of Radical Dharma: Talking Race, Love and Liberation, his teachings center on freedom, self-expression, and radical self-care. Highly sought after for talks, retreats, and workshops, his mission is showing you how to heal and free yourself. A leading voice in a new generation of Buddhist teachers with over 11 years of experience, Lama Rod is highly respected among his peers and the communities that he serves. From these intersections, he creates a platform that’s very natural, engaging, and inclusive.For current offerings and programs, click here. “The whole project of The New Saints was to delve into the frustrations of paradox, of contradictions. One of the things that deepens our suffering is our attempt to make everything make sense. That’s how we get trapped in delusion, trying to make it make sense when instead we are trying to transcend it.” – Lama Rod OwensSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Exploring the themes in his new book, Confidence, Ethan Nichtern chats with his dad, David, about vulnerability, truth, and the state of the world.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.In this episode, David and Ethan speak about:Ethan’s new book and what real confidence isFalse confidence and manipulationThe current political environment and seeking the truthWhy authenticity is so importantExamples of people who radiate confidence and light the candles of othersHow sadness can be an authentic response to the state of the worldThe Eight Worldly Winds and practicing confidenceHow we are all vulnerable to imposter syndromeAwareness and tuning into our inner knowing to avoid being caught in emotionsRemembering our powerful and tender heartsCheck out these on-demand online courses from David Nichtern and an upcoming course from Ethan Nichtern based around his new book HERE.About Ethan Nichtern:Ethan Nichtern is a Buddhist teacher, and is the author of the acclaimed book The Road Home: A Contemporary Exploration of the Buddhist Path, which was selected as one of Library Journal’s Best Books of 2015, and one of Tech Insider’s “9 Books That Define 2015.” He also wrote The Dharma of The Princess Bride: What The Coolest Fairy Tale of Our Time Can Teach Us About Buddhism and Relationships and most recently, Confidence: Holding Your Seat through Life’s Eight Worldly Winds.For the past 20+ years, Ethan has taught meditation and Buddhist psychology classes and workshops around New York City and North America and Europe, along with working with students privately. He has primarily studied in the Shambhala and other Tibetan traditions, but has also studied Theravadan and Soto Zen Buddhism. He is also an avid yoga practitioner. He served as Shastri, or Senior Teacher-In-Residence, for the Shambhala Meditation Center of New York, from 2010-2018. Continue listening to Ethan on his podcast, The Road Home.“I think there is a compassion element to genuine confidence where you’re using your own confidence to light other people’s candle.” – Ethan NichternSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Highlighting the intersection between love and awareness, Rhonda V. Magee joins David to discuss real change in a culture of separation.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/beherenow and get on your way to being your best self.This time on the CSM podcast, David and Rhonda converse about: Rhonda’s background and personal definition of loveReal change through love, inspiration and a sense of connectionThe inter-being of mindfulness and mettaThe principle of loving everyone and telling the truthWhat happens when truth is met with resistance or denialLiving in a time where we have constant reminders of fear and angerHow our culture has reduced us and objectified usIntergenerational phenomena and walking through many phases of lifeWhat we leave behind for the next generation and what we can learn from youthReal and perceived differencesDeepening our own well-being so that we can be there for othersJoin David Nichtern for a free online talk on teaching mindfulness and the role of the teacher, Tuesday, May 28th, 2024 at 6:00 PM: FREE ONLINE TALKAbout Rhonda V. Magee:Rhonda V. Magee is a Professor of Law at the University of San Francisco and a leading mindfulness teacher and practice innovator with a focus on applying mindfulness to the hardest challenges of our times. She is an internationally-recognized teacher, guide and mentor, focused on integrating mindfulness into higher education, law and social change work. A prolific author, she draws on law and legal history to weave storytelling, poetry, analysis and practices into inspiration for changing how we think, act and live better together in a rapidly changing world. Keep up with Rhonda on her website or on social media.“I fully believe, for most of us, especially in the West, grounding in a quality of love and care as how we experience awareness is pretty important because we have so much healing to do. We’ve been so alienated from ourselves, each other, from the planet.” – Rhonda V. MageeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ramin Nazer and David Nichtern explore the individual’s place in an ever-changing and technologically-advancing world.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowThis time on CSM, we hear about: Technological advancement and the collective mindSci-Fi and fear vs. hope for the futureThe unsustainability of blissEternalism and the hellscape of pointlessnessThe dystopia of A.I and ChatGPTSafe zones versus growth zonesCreativity and trying to guess what the world wants to seeCreating a balance in a chaotic worldThe fundamental experiences that ground usPsychedelics as a liberating disruptionSimulations, robots, and ‘I am-ness’The dynamics of polarityAbout Ramin Nazer:Ramin Nazer is a multi-talented artist, podcaster, comedian, game creator and musician based out of LA. He is best known for his consistent stream of unique, psychedelic-spiritual, bite-sized art for the social media age, as well as his podcast, with comedian Shane Mauss, Mind Under Matter, where they take a hilarious and scientific approach to human behavior. You can tap into Ramin’s steady flow of art on his Instagram, tap into his solo podcast Rainbow Brainskull, and peer into his myriad offerings at RaminNazer.com.“According to Buddhism, the solution is you maintain your status as a human being who has ups and downs, who has lungs, and disappointments, yet there’s a seed of real depth of wisdom and understanding and compassion in it. You bypass the God realms.” – David NichternSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Discussing his experience with panic attacks, Dan Harris describes the tools that have helped him move from resistance to acceptance.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this episode, David and Dan dive into:How Dan went from experiencing panic attacks to finding meditationDan’s definition of happinessStabilizing our well-beingThe compounding effect of meditation practiceNavigating difficult external experiencesWorking on a loving-kindness practicePith instructions from spiritual teachersAllowing feelings instead of resistingThe fear of death and all pervasive sufferingTemporal experiences and observing the pause of timeImpermanence and not taking everything so seriouslyEquanimity and looking at our emotions as passing weatherGrab your copy of the 10th-anniversary edition of Dan's book, 10% Happier, HERE to learn more about the benefits of meditation in his life.About Dan Harris:Dan Harris is an author, podcaster, and a retired American journalist for ABC News. He was an anchor for Nightline and co-anchor of the weekend edition of Good Morning America. After an on-air panic attack, Dan dedicated himself to meditation and spreading the word about its benefits. His “10% Happier” podcasts feature interviews with other meditators. Dan’s book, 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Really Works – a True Story, was published in March 2014.“Panic is just a set of physical sensations, which as a panic sufferer, I have experienced countless times and always survived. So, it’s okay, just let it go. Let the sensations be there, it’s okay to feel it. What is making it worse is my resistance to it.” – Dan HarrisSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Examining the interplay between mind and body, neuroscientist Dr. Sarà King and David Nichtern talk trauma, dream-work, and the sense of self.David and Dr. Sarà traverse these topics:Dr. Sarà’s research on generational trauma and ancestral intelligenceThe autonomic nervous system and how trauma is stored in the bodyFight, Flight, Freeze, Faint, and gauging if a situation is safe or dangerousHow contemplative practices can modulate the trauma responseWhat the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible forHow we create personal narrativesNeuroscience and quantum energyDr. Sarà’s own journey to liberation from traumaCo-Creating our own reality with the universeDreams, trips, bardos and beyondDr. Sarà’s work in creating a map of awarenessThe relationship between biometrics and story-tellingAI, cosmology, and merging biosynthetic beings with human consciousness“There is this real delicate dance and interplay that’s happening between the mind and the body to construct a sense of self, me, I, at any given moment.” – Dr. Sará KingAbout Dr. Sará King:Dr. Sará King is a UCLA-trained neuroscientist, political and learning scientist, social entrepreneur, public speaker, and yoga and mindfulness meditation instructor. She has over 20 years of experience as a research scientist, and specializes in the study of the relationship between mindfulness, complementary alternative medicine, and social justice. She is the scientific consultant for Peace in Schools, a dharma teacher with Presence Collective, a Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurology, and the founder of MindHeart Consulting, a scientific consultancy offering seminars, research and development, and trauma healing circles.Keep up with Dr. King on Instagram or HEREJoin Ethan Nichtern and Shelly Tygielski on January 9th for a free online event: "Right Livelihood: What Capitalism Can Learn From Buddhism"See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Focusing on the relative and absolute, Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson and David Nichtern explore mindfulness, mysticism, and more.David and Jay spend this episode discussing:- Jay’s interdisciplinary background and seizing the day- Mindfulness and Jewish mysticism- Spiritual and Sensual Exploration- Relying on a joyful state of mind- The intersection of psychedelics and spirituality- The sweet spot between contemplative practice and engaged activism- Economics, politics, and the elites- Bliss states and relative experiences- Neurodiversity and the Enneagram- Generational shifts of awarenessAlready downloaded by over 15k people, visit dharmamoon.com/ebook to get YOUR free copy of The Art of Teaching Mindfulness!“In my actual life, having those relative experiences enables me to touch into the absolute in the midst of daily life. That’s especially true with the dharmic use of psychedelics. The experience itself, especially if it’s a long experience, has its own teaching, and it’s possible to train the mind to remember.” – Rabbi Dr. Jay MichaelsonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mindfulness teacher, Kaira Jewel Lingo, chats with David Nichtern about the power of spiritual community and self-assessment.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this episode, David and Kaira discuss:The practice of sharing appreciations and regretsCommunity support within nunneries and monasteriesCo-regulating the nervous system to mitigate conflictSocial change and recognizing our shared humanityDoing the inner work to have a bigger impact on the worldLiving simply and being aligned with our purposeUsing resources to build a better futureNeuroscience & BuddhismKaira’s upcoming books and events“There needs to be inner work for outer work to really have an impact.” – Kaira Jewel LingoDiscover the transformative practice of teaching mindfulness in a new FREE 30-page ebook by Senior Buddhist teacher and Emmy award-winning musician, David Nichtern. With its blend of humor, wisdom, and accessible approach, The Art of Teaching Mindfulness ebook is a must-read for anyone interested in sharing the life-changing practices of mindfulness with others.Already downloaded by over 15k people, visit dharmamoon.com/ebook to get YOUR free copy of The Art of Teaching Mindfulness!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern explores how mindfulness meditation is the primary tool on our journey of joining Heaven and Earth, which are our highest aspirations and our day-to-day practicalities.This episode is taken from one of David’s Dharma Moon Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training sessions. The Intro to Mindfulness and the Path of Meditation program, which serves as the foundation for the next Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training, begins on October 13th.To learn more, register now for a free online talk, Teaching Mindfulness Meditation and the Role of the Teacher, with David Nichtern and Robert Thurman on Tuesday, August 22nd.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this episode, David explores:The classic paradigm of Heaven and Earth, our highest aspirations and our day-to-day practicalities, as a way to frame our journeysThe role that humanity plays in this paradigm and what the path of the warrior truly meansHow mindfulness meditation is the primary tool we can use for joining Heaven and Earth and finding balance in our lives“Earth is nothing but obstacles, actually, from the point of view of Heaven. It’s just a clump of obstacles. But from the point of view of joining Heaven and Earth, it’s a clump of obstacles that actually can be manifested as opportunities for joining Heaven and Earth.” – David NichternAbout David Nichtern:David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He was one of the initial American students of renowned meditation master Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche and studied closely with him soon after his arrival in the United States in 1970. He is also a business consultant with companies creating a variety of offerings integrating meditation in a larger health and well-being context. David is also a multiple Grammy-nominated and Emmy award-winning musician.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David is joined by Emmy Award-winning composer, author, multi-Platinum record producer and songwriter Richard Wolf for a conversation about music, mindfulness, and success. Join David Nichtern and Robert Thurman on Tuesday, August 22nd to discuss teaching meditation and find out more about Dharma Moon and Tibet House's renowned mindfulness meditation teacher training: FREE ONLINE TALKIn this episode, Richard joins David to discuss:The Twelve Bridges between music & meditationZen & Silent IlluminationPractice and successLinks From This Episode:Darker the Night, Brighter the StarsDiscovering Elegance“It’s not about your ego when you’re making music. It’s not about you. It’s about the music.If you’re trying to perform, you want to just have the best performance possible. If you’re writing music, you just want to take the song where the song wants to go. You want to help it go. It’s not about your self-referential agenda; it’s about the music. It’s not about you, and so you’re transcending yourself.” – Richard WolfAbout Richard Wolf:Richard “Wolfie” Wolf is an Emmy Award ™ winning composer, multi-Platinum RIAA awarded record producer and songwriter, teacher and noted author. Wolf is on the faculty of The University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music where he teaches a class on “Music & Mindfulness” which was the first course at a university level to explore the special relationship between the two practices.His book “In Tune: Music As The Bridge To Mindfulness” is acclaimed as an innovative guide to contemplative practices for musical people and was the inspiration for his podcast “Wolf In Tune”. The book was written up in The New Yorker, Parade Magazine, Mindful Magazine, Mashable, Spirituality & Health and others.Learn more about Richard at richardwolf.net.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matt Sydal joins David to talk about wisdom gained through imperfection, and how professional wrestling connects to the Middle Way.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this episode, Matt joins David to discuss:The variations of professional wrestling in different culturesThe “not too tight, not too loose” principle in wrestlingMaintaining an equanimous state in discomfort His story on experiencing vastness and spaciousness of the mind for the first time Balancing daily life with the practice of cultivating the meditative mind The wisdom he’s gained from cultivating an “imperfect” meditation practice“Wrestling is like meditation, you can do it in any language.” – Matt SydalAbout Matt Sydal: Matthew Joseph “Matt” Korklan , also known by the ring name Matt Sydal, is an American professional wrestler. Between 2000 and 2007, Korklan wrestled on the independent circuit, for promotions including NWA Midwest, IWA-Mid South, and Ring of Honor, winning both singles and tag team championships. He also wrestled for the short-lived Wrestling Society X and was featured on Total Nonstop Action Wrestling’s early pay-per-view events. In 2011, he formed an alliance with Kofi Kingston, known as Air Boom, and they won the WWE Tag Team Championship. He also made his debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), where he was one-time NEVER Openweight 6-Man Tag Team Champions, and former two-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion. Matt is known for his high flying, lucha libre-inspired style of wrestling, and was named the Wrestling Observer Newsletter‘s Best Flying Wrestler in 2008.Learn more about Matt’s wrestling courses at www.sydojo.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Emmy-winning composer Sean Callery and David discuss true fearlessness, how Trungpa Rinpoche heard music, and the symphony of impermanence.Join David Nichtern and Robert Thurman to discuss teaching meditation and find out more about Dharma Moon and Tibet House's renowned mindfulness meditation teacher training: FREE ONLINE TALKIn this episode, David and Sean dive into:Sean’s absolutely legendary Emmy-winning career as a humble composer you may not know, but have certainly heard and been touched bySuccess, aspiration, effort, persistence, happiness, fruition, and the journeyConnecting, acknowledging, authenticity, skillful means, confidence, and unique viewBlending spirituality and the Dharma with our jobs and work livesFear and fearlessness through the lens of Shambala and Chögyam Trungpa RinpocheUnderstanding impermanence as a rich symphonyHow Trungpa Rinpoche heard musicAn impromptu live jam session with Sean showcasing emotional change in musical scoresLinks from this episode:Garchen Rinpoche Doc: https://vimeo.com/544826314David on Merv Griffin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=2ZEu2oe2UEk&feature=youtu.be“What people have misunderstood about impermanence is, ‘Oh, it’s just nullifying and void, nothing exists, emptiness,’ but what we’re saying is there’s this rich symphony going on, and there is a pattern to it, but it will never be the same from one time to one time. That’s true every moment of your life.” – David NichternSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Author, architect, and feng shui expert, Anjie Cho, joins David Nichtern to inspire listeners to revitalize their homes and their lives through the practice of mindful design.Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowJoin David Nichtern and Buddhist scholar Professor Robert Thurman for an online session on mindfulness, meditation and the Dharma Moon Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training program: dharmamoon.com/info-sessionIn this episode, David and Anjie dive into:Redefining your relationship with your home through feng shui and Buddhist teachingsShifting the qi (life force energy) in your home to support your spiritual practices and creative endeavorsHow our inner environments are translated to our external environmentsThe feng shui map, or BaguaHouse plants as teachers for different phases of our lives“The heart of this book is asking people to not look at feng shui as a checklist of things to do and things to fix in your life, but to open up to become more friendly with your home, to start to engage with your home, and to see your home as a living being that can be your ally in your healing process and teach you a lot.” – Anjie ChoAbout Anjie Cho:Anjie Cho is a creator of holistic spaces, specifically focused on designing architectural interiors, and teaching feng shui and meditation. She is the author of Mindful Homes [CICO Books 2023] and Holistic Spaces [CICO Books 2018]. Since 1999, she has been designing beautiful and nourishing spaces (inner and outer) with balance and harmony, informed by the ancient practice of feng shui and meditation. Her focus is to create nurturing and supportive environments, tailoring her practice to each individual’s specific needs.Anjie is a New York State Registered Architect, a graduate in Architecture from the College of Environmental Design at the University of California at Berkeley, LEED Accredited Professional, and certified feng shui consultant from the BTB Feng Shui Masters Training Program. She has trained as a meditation teacher and in shamanic healing modalities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Exploring Vedic principles in a modern era, Vedic scholar and Lineage Holder Acharya Shunya joins David Nichtern in a reflection on infinity and emptiness.Take part in a free online evening of exploration with Acharya Shunya and David Nichtern. Enjoy a presentation by Acharya Shunya titled “Awakening Goddess Saraswati with Mantra, Meditation & Sacred Visioning”, followed by a dialogue between her and David, and will conclude with an open Q&A session: LEARN MOREIn this episode David and Acharya Shunya explore:The form and formlessHindu Lineages Enlightenment and VulnerabilityRebirthing the self Yugas and addressing the era we are born intoDiversity and OnenessSpiritual containers and curiosity Today's podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowAbout Acharya Shunya: Acharya Shunya is a truth-teller who facilitates authenticity, self-remembrance, and divine feminine pathways to awakening. The first female head of her spiritual lineage that traces its roots to 2,000 years ago in India, Acharya Shunya represents the ancient Vedic tradition of India in a way that is completely authentic, yet as relevant as possible to modern sensibilities and needs. Acharya Shunya is the author of three bestselling books Ayurveda Lifestyle Wisdom, Sovereign Self and her newest book - Roar Like a Goddess: Every Woman's Guide to Becoming Unapologetically Powerful, Prosperous, and Peaceful. In this book, Acharya Shunya honors her progressive Vedic roots while breaking the shackles of tradition to bring modern-day women, an inclusive, feminist spirituality.Find Links to Acharya Shunya's books and social media HERE"First comes emptiness. Only then, in that emptiness which is potent from divinity and spiritual consciousness, comes the seed. That seed becomes sound and that sound becomes form." – Acharya Shunya See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tech wizard, entrepreneur, and practitioner Justin Evans joins David to talk about merging Buddhist wisdom with A.I. technology and business.Help others improve their mental and emotional well-being, reduce stress, improve focus, increase self-awareness and self-regulation -- all while deepening your own practice and understanding.Join Buddhist teacher David Nichtern and special guest Professor Robert Thurman for a free online program on Tuesday, February 14th at 6:00pm ET. Visit dharmamoon.com/beherenow for more info and to reserve your spot for the free info session!Learn more about Justin's Playfitt app:Website: https://www.playfitt.ca/Insta: https://www.instagram.com/playfitt_app/Appstore: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/playfitt-daily-fitness-games/id1434731178“The idea of a two-year practice is the depth of it—you get to go quite far into it. And so far the place in my life where I've had the great gift and opportunity to go far and go deep is in the entrepreneurial stuff.” – Justin EvansSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nina Rao joins David to share the clarity and wisdom of her Guru, Sri Siddhi Ma, and discuss chanting, music, Maharaj-ji, the Goddess, and Hanuman.  Nina Rao is a devotional singer. She tours with Krishna Das, playing cymbals, singing, and acting as his business manager. Nina has two of her own albums, “Antarayaami – Knower of All Hearts” and “Anubhav”. Nina regularly leads kirtan, workshops, and retreats in her hometown of Brooklyn, New York and beyond. Transform your meditation practice with Dharma Moon's 1-on-1 mentoring program: 1:1 MENTORING“It's all about purifying. The practice is helping us drop all the stuff considered obscurations or kleshas to seeing clearly. If we see clearly we can understand. If we understand we can have a compassionate heart. With that compassionate heart we can feel our interconnectedness. Then what else is there to do in this body but feel that interconnectedness, feel that love, and share.” – Nina RaoNEW Meditation Series: Pause, Breathe, Be Here Now with Ram Dass, Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield, Tara Brach, Joseph Goldstein, John Lockley, Ram Dev, Trudy Goodman, Lama Tsultrim Allione—FREE January 16 to 25. Sit in true peace, love, and tranquility. Join thousands of people around the world for this collective meditation experience: onecommune.com/ramdass See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The CSM Podcast is back with a Dharma talk from David Nichtern about stepping onto the path of meditation and settling into practice.It is the new year, now is the time to sit down, settle in and dig into mindfulness and meditation practice. The question is, what are you doing that gets in the way of your practice taking root? In this episode, David offers wisdom that every beginning or struggling meditator needs to hear.   Transform your meditation practice with Dharma Moon's 1-on-1 mentoring program: 1:1 MENTORING"There is another expression of practice, 'Hasten slowly and you will soon arrive.' There is a built-in tension between our momentum to try not to be where we are... and this instinct that is coming in just to settle in and be who we are; where we are; when we are. We are going to let that play out a little bit... We are not necessarily going to outsmart it - manipulate it and bend it to our will - and then on the other hand we are not going to be able to avoid it. Then you are in the sweet spot, and I think that is a kind of texture of practice that is very powerful." - David Nichtern   NEW Meditation Series: Pause, Breathe, Be Here Now with Ram Dass, Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield, Tara Brach, Joseph Goldstein, John Lockley, Ram Dev, Trudy Goodman, Lama Tsultrim Allione—FREE January 16 to 25. Sit in true peace, love, and tranquility. Join thousands of people around the world for this collective meditation experience: onecommune.com/ramdass See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and Michael Kammers weave tangible Buddhist perspectives on working with desire in the modern world.Discover more at Dharma Moon – David's mindfulness-based education platform offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more."It's not inherently liberating to either repress desire or indulge it – it's how you work with it that's potentially liberating." – David NichternSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck, drop into the world of Enneagram with returning guest, Susan Piver.Susan Piver has an international reputation as an exceptionally skillful meditation teacher. She teaches workshops and speaks on mindfulness, innovation, communication, relationships, and creativity. Susan has been a student of Buddhism since 1995, graduated from a Buddhist seminary in 2004, and was authorized to teach meditation in 2005. In 2012, she founded The Open Heart Project, the world’s largest online-only meditation center. Susan is also a New York Times bestselling author. Her newest book is The Buddhist Enneagram: Nine Paths to Warriorship. You can keep up with Susan on Instagram and Twitter.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David and Michael offer freedom from doubt, exploring its connection to relationships, uncertainty, meditation, leadership, accomplishment, and mistakes.This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowDiscover more at Dharma Moon – David's mindfulness-based education platform offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more."I was in a marriage for some time, but it led to me not being honest with myself because I wasn't really honoring the doubt and the fear. Fear and doubt are related. In that relationship, I was so afraid of it ending—even though it was unhealthy and the relationship wasn't even really a relationship at that point—but I couldn't acknowledge reality. I was afraid to, and that kept me stuck in the trap [of doubt], and it led to a lot of suffering." – Michael KammersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern returns to get clear and precise about the Buddhist view on precision. In this special Buddhist View episode of the CSM Podcast, Michael Kammers and David Nichtern explore the concept of precision through the clear lens of Buddhism.Support podcasts like this through the Be Here Now Network 6th-Anniversary Fundraiser Drive - win tickets to the Ram Dass Legacy retreat in Maui, shop limited edition BHNNxBrunofsky merch and more: beherenownetwork.com/fundraiserDiscover more at Dharma Moon – David's mindfulness-based education platform offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Kammers and David Nichtern discuss the connection between creativity and compassion, offering insight into balancing artistry with wellbeing.Discover more at Dharma Moon – David's mindfulness-based education platform offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lama Rod Owens joins David Nichtern to discuss rethinking the traditional approach to the Dharma on this episode of Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck.Lama Rod Owens is a Buddhist minister, author, activist, yoga instructor, queen, and author. His book, Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger, is an LA Times Best Seller. Lama Rod Owens is considered to be one of the leaders of the next generation of Dharma teachers. He has a blend of formal Buddhist training and life experience that gives him a unique ability to understand, relate and engage with those around him in a way that’s spacious and sincere. He invites us all into the cross sections of his life as a black, queer male, born and raised in the South, and heavily influenced by the church and its community. Keep up to date with Lama Rod Owens on his Instagram or sign up for the email list on his website."I show up in multiple spaces. I think that comes from this belief, or rather a commitment, to this idea that I just want people to be happy and resourced. That doesn't mean I want people to be Buddhist, it doesn't necessarily mean I want people to be meditators. I want people to have access to the resources they need to be well." – Lama Rod Owens See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, David and Miriam have a vulnerable conversation about the nature of practice and how to apply it in our creative lives.Miriam Parker is an interdisciplinary artist who uses movement, paint, video art, and sculpture/installation. Her work has been influenced by her experience as a dancer, her study of Buddhism and phenomenology, and her connection to the free jazz tradition. Over the last 4 years, her personal practice has led her to complete over 35 weeks of solitary spiritual retreat. Miriam also completed a rigorous study of the 15 Foundational Buddhist Courses as offered through the Asian Classic Institute, which parallels the basic core of information that a Geshe (Doctor of Theology) learns at a Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Miriam has been teaching meditation in NYC studios, non-profit organizations, and corporate settings for nearly 10 years. She has been imparting yogic techniques and physical trainings, both individually and in group settings, for nearly 7 years. To learn about Miriam’s upcoming events check out The Prana Life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Kammers & David Nichtern offer perspective on the nature of freedom and how mindful leadership effects the systems we live within.This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this timely David's View episode, Michael Kammers joins David for a discussion which dives into the importance of mindful leadership. Taking an honest look at our current leadership models in the United States, the Dharma Moon Duo offers insight into dancing and conflict resolution, ego and intention, capacity and dysfunction, as well as discernment, communication, and freedom."A leader has to take a big aerial view of the whole situation and somehow become a transformer. A leader has to know how to transform energy—to not reject energy, to see people's gifts, to see their obstacles, and continuously re-orchestrate the situation so that people have a chance to grow." – David Nichtern See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Eve Lewis Prieto of Headspace joins David for a conversation on merging ancient meditation techniques with modern technology.Evelyn Lewis Prieto is a mindfulness and meditation teacher, and Director of Meditation at Headspace. She has studied under the guidance of Andy Puddicombe and David Nichtern. She is passionate about blending these accent traditions with modern science and has experienced first-hand the value these practices can have, even in the darkest of times, which is what inspired her to also train as an MBSR teacher. As Director of Meditation for Headspace, Eve is responsible for growing the community of teachers, building out the meditation curriculum, and is herself one of the teachers in the app. For more on Eve, visit her instagram @MeditateWithEve, as well as her website MBSRwithEveandDee.com, and use her code Eve30 for a discounted Headspace subscription.Discover more from David at Dharma Moon – offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Creativity, Spirituality & Making a Buck, David Nichtern and Pete Holmes discuss worthiness and empowered humility.Pete Holmes is an American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcaster. You can listen to him on his podcast You Made it Weird with Pete Holmes or check out his new TV show, How We Roll. His recent book, Comedy Sex God offers a comedic and autobiographical philosophical inquiry on living a spiritual life. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Kammers joins David Nichtern to discuss working with strong emotions as a practice during meditation and in daily life.Dharma Moon’s 100 Hour Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Training led by David Nichtern starts May 18: https://www.dharmamoon.com/summer-teacher-trainingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern shares Buddha's Three Marks of Existence—offering deep contemplation and prajna around interdependence, impermanence, & suffering.This podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowIn this special episode hand-plucked from Dharma Moon's Mindfulness Teacher Training Program, host and monologist, Michael Kammers introduces a Dharma Talk from David Nichtern which dives into a timely contemplation on the three marks of existence—impermanence, non-self (interdependence), and suffering—three key foundations of the Buddhist view."The whole thing leans towards Buddhahood, reality leans towards the realization of one's true nature and the true nature of the situation. It's never gonna leave you alone, reality will never leave you alone." – David NichternSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and Michael Kammers dive into a discussion on existence, perception, and temporality.This podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenow“Impermanence definitely seems to be real in what appears to be this ever-shifting presence that is our portal of experience.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and Mirabai Starr chat about masculine versus feminine energy and shifting the paradigm of women in spirituality.Mirabai Starr is an award-winning author of creative non-fiction and contemporary translations of sacred literature. She taught Philosophy and World Religions at the University of New Mexico-Taos for 20 years and now teaches and speaks internationally on contemplative practice and inter-spiritual dialogue. A certified bereavement counselor, Mirabai helps mourners harness the transformational power of loss. Check out her latest book, Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics, and learn more at MirabaiStarr.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and his ‘pod-kick’ Michael Kammers return for a conversation about reactivity, how it is usually governed by the three Kleshas, and what it means to respond rather than react.Discover more from David at Dharma Moon – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dharma-driven tattoo artist, Robert Ryan joins David for a Bhakti-infused discussion on tattooing Hindu Deities, and art as a spiritual access point.This podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowRobert Ryan is a tattoo artist, painter, musician, business proprietor, and Dharma practitioner. A highly regarded tattoo artist, Robert has created a distinct and sought-after style merging the foundations of American tattooing with the style of Indian Kalighat painting – an approach to Deity depictions done quickly with simple lines and bold iconic images practiced by artists outside of the Kali temple in Calcutta. Building from his stunning first book of artwork, The Inborn Absolute, Robert recently released a mystical art tome entitled, Deity, featuring incredible paintings of Hindu Deities adorned with Dharma commentaries. To dive deeper, visit Robert's Instagram, or book a tattoo.Discover more from David at Dharma Moon – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Investigating resilience as a factor of mindfulness, David Nichtern & Michael Kammers offer tangible thought experiments for uncovering our relationship with attention.David Nichtern and his self-proclaimed “pod-kick” Michael Kammers are back for another David’s View uncovering the ‘Three R’s of Mindfulness.’ Moving on from last episode’s discussion on resonance, the Dharma Moon duo explore the intricacies of this week’s topic—a key one for the times—resilience.Discover more from David at Dharma Moon – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The author of Peak Mind, Amishi Jha PhD, joins David for a chat around the perfect marriage of neuroscience and mindfulness meditation.Amishi Jha, PhD is Director of Contemplative Neuroscience and Professor of Psychology at the University of Miami. Prior to her current post, she was an Assistant Professor at the Center for Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania. She received her B.S in Biological Psychology from the University of Michigan, her Ph.D in Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience) from the University of California–Davis, and her post-doctoral training at the Brain Imaging and Analysis Center at Duke University in functional neuroimaging. Discover her new book, Peak Mind: Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention, Invest 12 Minutes a Day, and find more offerings at Amishi.comThis podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and Michael Kammers have a free-flowing conversation around the theme of resonance, touching on loving awareness, clear seeing, compassion, and more along the way.Find more from David at DharmaMoon.com – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring, and moreSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern welcomes Erica Kidder for a conversation about her new book, how we’re all capable of finding authenticity through adversity, and the importance of living with intentionality.Erica Kidder is an equity advocate, author, and speaker. She is dedicated to erasing conventional identity classification boxes, embracing and helping others to celebrate all experiences, intersectionalities and virtues that make us unique. Her new book, Black, Mixed With, will be available soon. Learn more at ericakidder.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

David Nichtern and Michael Kammers connect the lineage traditions of Buddhism and music in a conversation spanning from Maharaj-ji to John Coltrane.Find more from David at DharmaMoon.com – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Spiritual Renaissance Man, Stephen Cope, joins David for a wide-spanning conversation connecting art, music, meditation, yoga, Trungpa Rinpoche, and dealing with critics.This podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowStephen Cope, MSW, Scholar-in-Residence and Kripalu Ambassador, is the founder and former Director of the Kripalu Institute for Extraordinary Living. He is the author of several best-selling books, including Yoga and the Quest for the True Self; The Great Work of Your Life: A Guide for the Journey to Your True Calling; Soul Friends: The Transforming Power of Deep Human Connection; and his new release due out January 2022, The Dharma in Difficult Times: Finding Your Calling in Times of Loss, Change, Struggle, and Doubt. For more info please visit StephenCope.comDavid recently launched Dharma Moon – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more, at www.DharmaMoon.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this pseudo-kōan of an episode, David and Michael ask us to start poking holes in our conception of reality and offer a healthy recipe for 'getting there'.This podcast is brought to you by BetterHelp. Click to receive 10% off your first month with your own licensed professional therapist: betterhelp.com/beherenowTwo seemingly simple questions, "Where are we trying to get and where are we if we are not already there", lead Michael and David down the deeper rabbit hole of how we conceptualize our experiences.Find more from David at DharmaMoon.com – a website offering Workshops/Courses, Teacher Trainings, Mentoring & more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.