While we take a brief break over the festive season, please enjoy this bonus episode: a beautiful guided meditation on love and kindness called equalizing self with others.

Full conversation episodes will resume in mid January, but check in again next week for another guided meditation.

We live in a world that constantly tells us we need to do more, be more, and achieve more. We set insanely high standards for ourselves, pushing to be successful in every area of life—yet, even when we reach those goals, we're left feeling like it’s still not enough. The truth is, we’re never truly satisfied. We’re always chasing the next milestone, believing we have to be better to be happy. But this constant pressure, this endless pursuit of perfection, is rooted in a disproportionate sense of self-importance. It’s a mindset that makes true fulfillment nearly impossible. In today’s episode, we dive into the power of accepting failure and embracing success—how both can be stepping stones for growth, learning, and ultimately, happiness. Join us as we explore how to let go of the pressure, enjoy the wins, and learn from the setbacks, creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Gen Lekma is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Southampton https://meditateinsouthampton.org.uk/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #OvercomeFear#FearOfFailure #SelfImprovement #PersonalDevelopment #Motivation#SuccessMindset #ConfidenceBuilding #MentalHealth #GrowthMindset #LifeSkills Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.

In this episode, guest host Agnes Bednarczyk is joined by Buddhist monk Gen Doryning to explore the deep sense of searching many young people feel in today's world. Surrounded by uncertainty and overwhelmed by modern challenges, many struggle to find meaning and direction through traditional paths. When asked where one can look for purpose, Gen Doryning offers gentle yet powerful guidance, suggesting simple, transformative changes that anyone can make to cultivate a sense of direction and a deep, lasting purpose each day. His inspiring words remind us that small steps can lead to profound shifts, helping us rediscover our true path in life.
0:00 Intro 00:25 Social media can keep us chained in meaningless activities 03:39 Looking for a solution : The trap of not being gentle with ourself 05:46 Be your own friend, be your own guide, be your own teacher 09:04 Contribution : Love is the most powerful healing 11:15 Create a vision for ourself 15:01 Protect ourself from self-sabotage 16:51 Failure increases our humility and compassion 22:59 There is no greater failure than not doing anything 29:24 Happy alone and happy with others Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Gen Dornying is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Leeds. https://www.meditationinleeds.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #discouraged #meaningoflife #meaningful #motivation #mentalhealth #inspiration #meditation #spirituality #happiness #calm #innerpeace Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.

Meditation is a popular method to achieve a calm, peaceful state of mind. In this podcast, International meditation teacher, Kadam Morten Clausen, explains how meditation is so much more than just breathing meditation and how you can begin to find answers to the big questions in your life. He explains how Buddha taught meditation as a way to achieve your true potential and life purpose. He explains how to use meditation to increase your inner wisdom and break free from limiting ways of looking at yourself and the world. An excellent discussion revealing how to go deeper in meditation and gain insight into how it can help you to transform your life. 0:00:00 Intro 0:00:50 What exactly is meditation, and what is it's real purpose 0:06:39 Improve your meditation to bring you a deep sense of inner peace 0:13:07 How to stop running and understand why you aren't happy 0:19:34 Identifying yourself with your true nature, not negativity and limitations 0:30:02 How to discover your sense of purpose 0:36:42 Change happens when you enjoy the wisdom of the meditative experience 0:44:07 The journey of many meaningful meditations (Lamrim) 0:54:32 How our peace can bring peace and loving-kindness to this world 0:59:01 Good bye Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Kadam Morten Clausen is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center New york City https://meditationinnewyork.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #meditation

In this Podcast Gen Demo, a Buddhist nun who is dealing with the chronic disease of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), explains how she is learning to let go of worry and accept her illness. Worrying makes everything worse and has a big effect on health. Gen Demo emphasizes how debilitating worry is in her life and how important it is to relax into the uncertainty of her condition and the uncertainty of the future. Worrying makes everything worse and has a big effect on health. She is learning to be gentle and tries to make the most of all situations she meets. An especially inspiring podcast to uplift and help everyone who is dealing with any difficulties in their life. 00:00:00 Intro 00:29 Being diagnosed with MS & spiritual advice from her teacher 01:26 The impact of worry on our health 06:04 The importance of preventing worry. 09:59 Thoughts that cause peace during a painful procedure. 18:28 Realizing that even if my body isn't ok, I'll be ok 23:47 What the sickness has taught me 28:58 Coming to terms with imperfection and hardship 36:49 Adapting patiently, meditating with pain 41:04 Meditation helps on deeper levels for the future 46:44 Can I meditate with chronic pain? 49:45 Ending

To watch a video version of this episode see:

https://www.youtube.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl How to Solve our Human Problems https://kadampa.org/book/how-to-solve-our-human-problems Gen Demo is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Washington DC https://meditation-dc.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #sclerosis

In this episode, Kadam Adam and Buddhist monk Gen Doryning discuss how conflict can become a pivotal time for achieving real success. They both share relatable stories of conflict that helped them to change their reactions and eventually to transform difficult relationships into ones that made them better people. Gen Doryning explains how easy it is for conflict to make us blind to the other person, only seeing them through our own painful feelings. They discuss how having the confidence to view difficult people in a different light, not only makes it possible to change the situation but also has a very positive impact on our lives. For anyone struggling with conflict in any situation, this podcast will inspire you to deal with it better and come out of it a better person. 00:00 Intro 00:21 A story of conflict 07:03 Change your mind and reality changes 11:43 Conflict makes us blind 15:20 Controlling one's feelings to resolve problems 18:10 Be strong in conflict 21:35 Difficulties transform us 31:23 Knowing people change, we change 33:35 Bring out the best in others 37:00 Connect with other's realities to dissolve painful feelings 45:56 Becoming a better person because of difficulties 49:54 The secret of self-esteem Book references Universal Compassion: https://kadampa.org/book/universal-compassion Gen Kelsang Dornying is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Leeds https://www.meditationinleeds.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #pain #painful #painfulmoments #injury #alone #anime #heartbroken #painmanagement #recovery #healthylifestyle #invisibleillness #spoonie #therapy #narutoshippuden #depressed #conflict #conflictresolution #relationships #communication #conflictmanagement #mentalhealth #divorce

Anxiety is a modern-day epidemic. In this podcast, Buddhist monk, Gen Kelsang Rabten, uses his own experience of anxiety to explain how to deal with this debilitating habit of mind by applying specific, powerful meditation techniques. He describes how anxious thoughts are tricks our mind plays on us and how, by beginning to first identify these thoughts and not believe them, we can dial the intensity of our anxiety right back. He explains one fascinating meditation that Buddha explained as being the best meditation to combat anxiety - and it is not what you would expect! A fascinating and in depth look at how we can transform the power of our mind from being one that harms, to one that helps us to become a powerful, fearless person. 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:15 Anxiety is uncontrolled fear 00:06:07 Letting go of anxious-inducing thoughts 00:09:47 An exercise to remove the fear from anxiety. 00:24:32 The relief of letting go of the fear of failure 00:30:02 The best meditation for dealing with anxiety according to Buddha 00:38:12 Facing fear, live with a super power of truth 00:43:00 The incredible power of the mind 00:53:28 "Always remember, it is just the mind" 01:00:03 Turning our anxiety into compassion Book references Living meaning fully, dying joyfully: https://kadampa.org/book/living-meaningfully-dying-joyfully Gen Rabten is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center in Australia and Melbourne https://www.meditateinmelbourne.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #

In this podcast, Miri (Mirja Renner) discusses how to transform chronic pain. Dealing with chronic pain herself Miri explains an extraordinary and ancient meditation practice that has helped her deal with relentless pain. She has been able to use this practice to not shut down, and become isolated in her illness but has been able instead to feel connected to others and at the same time reduce her own physical and mental suffering. A very powerful conversation giving much hope and solace to anyone who is struggling with chronic illness to see a way forward to a rich and meaningful life. 00:00 Intro 01:08 Adjusting to chronic illness & pain by transforming it with meditation 04:53 Using meditation to help accept patiently 06:52 Stop rejecting sickness and practice being relaxed & peaceful 10:52 How to be peaceful in the face of pain 14:01 Ways to stop focusing on pain and open your heart to others 20:49 Making your sickness meaningful - becoming resilient 22:55 Compassion enables you to support others despite your pain 26:32 Changing your mind will change your reality 29:42 Obsessive self concern is self sabotage 36:18 What to do when no-one understands you 37:42 Taking control 40:18 Distraction and being busy doesn't help - Prioritise your inner well-being 45:11 A great method for dealing with anxiety 49:04 Last advice: Don't despair, use it as a window into the hearts of others Book references New Eight Steps to Happiness: https://kadampa.org/book/eight-steps-to-happiness Miri (Mirja Renner) is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Hamburg https://www.meditation-hamburg.de/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #pain

In this podcast Gen Menla, a Buddhist monk who has come from becoming a caregiver to his Mother shares what he has learnt from this. He discusses how being a full-time caregiver can be hard, but also a tremendous journey of learning and personal development. Looking at the importance of taking care of yourself, the caregiver, he explains four simple things his teacher recommends for everyone to ensure they can continue to have the energy to be of benefit to others without burnout. For those who have found themselves experiencing frustration, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, this is an insightful podcast to help re-evaluate the importance of self-care for the care-giver. 00:00 Intro 00:16 Moving from son to son and caregiver 03:08 How caregiving helps to become closer to who you care for 07:52 Letting go of our roles and releasing the control 14:29 Accept you aren't perfect when times are hard 22:43 Finding and not letting go of your love 27:32 Don't resent your loved one 39:03 4 simple things to care for yourself:45:59:05 Your well-being is critical 47:18 Sustainable energy through examining how we rest 51:06 The energy that flows from compassion 55:02 Appreciate the joy of caregiving

To watch a video version of this podcast please visit:

https://www.youtube.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Book references How to Transform Your Life: https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Gen Menla is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Texas https://www.meditationintexas.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #selffcare

In today's episode, Gen Gomlam delves into the profound and often uncharted territory of death and dying. Having worked as a Nurse for over 30 years she has experience of helping others in the final stages of life, and more recently faced up to the possibility of her own death. As a Buddhist nun she shares insights into what actually happens when we die and how that can affect our life in a positive way. In a society that frequently shies away from discussions about mortality, it is refreshing to bring these essential conversations to the forefront. 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Exploring Hospice Nursing in Rural New Mexico: Challenges and Rewards 04:00 What Really Happens When We Die? Understanding the death process 07:42 The Nature of Consciousness: What Is the Mind? 12:17 Healing Through Compassion: Overcoming Pain and Suffering 18:38 Unlocking the Power of the Mind: Your Best Protector Against Adversity 22:25 Preparing for the Inevitable: A Guide to Acceptance and Peace at Death 35:45 Discovering the Limitless Potential of the Human Mind 45:54 Preparing the mind for Open Heart Surgery 51:05 Making a Difference: How Can We Contribute Positively to the World? Book references Joyful Path of Good Fortune: https://kadampa.org/book/joyful-path-of-good-fortune Living Meaningfully Dying Joyfully: https://kadampa.org/book/living-meaningfully-dying-joyfully Gen Gomlam is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Florida https://meditationinsarasota.org/. The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #death

Gen Gomlam is the Resident Teacher in Kadampa Meditation Center Florida https://meditationinsarasota.org/ Subscribe to get notifications of new videos. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566169568342 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #meaningfulliving

Weekly episodes from Friday October 25.

Welcome to the modern Buddhism podcast - a forum for inspiring conversations exploring how we can all use meditation and Buddha's timeless wisdom to find a deeper inner peace, happiness and resilience in daily life, with people who are really walking that path every day. We hope you enjoy it. Produced by the New Kadampa Tradition