The Modern Buddhism Podcast

In today's episode, host Rebecca Gauthier interviews Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Dragpa. Gen Dragpa shares his journey from a discontented youth to finding deep purpose through Kadampa Buddhism. Reflecting on his personal struggles with anger, expectations, and a painful relationship separation, he explains how Buddha's teachings function as a supportive mirror - helping us understand our own minds rather than blaming external circumstances. He discusses the power of simple meditation practices, the transformative experience of meeting his spiritual guide Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, and the reality of navigating inner challenges even after ordination. Through candid reflections on avoiding perfectionism and resisting instant gratification, this conversation highlights how working on inner peace creates genuine, positive change in the world around us. 00:00 Early Discontentment and Quest for Freedom 05:54 Reggae, Relationships, and Searching for Control 11:15 Discovering the Practical Science of Meditation 16:44 Using Buddha's Teachings as a Mirror 22:00 Meeting Geshe Kelsang and Requesting Ordination 27:30 Real Monk Challenges and Inner Kindness 32:44 Facing Fear and Becoming a Resident Teacher 38:02 Countering Distraction to Find Lasting Meaning

In today’s episode, we explore the deeply personal and transformative practice of forgiveness - and why letting go of resentment is ultimately about changing our own mind rather than waiting for someone else to apologize or make things right. The guest explains how our experience of hurt can become tied to blame, self-blame, and the mistaken belief that our faults or painful experiences define who we are. Drawing on Buddhist teachings and the advice of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, including teachings from The New Eight Steps to Happiness , she explores how we can learn to recognize our faults without identifying with them, understand the perspectives and suffering of others, and develop a healthier relationship with our own mistakes. The conversation examines betrayal, neglect, difficult childhood experiences, anger, resentment, and the expectations we hold about how life and other people should have treated us. Through the practice of patient acceptance, we can begin to let go of the painful idea that things should have been different and instead work with the reality we actually face. This episode offers a practical and compassionate approach to forgiveness - one that does not excuse harmful behavior or depend on receiving an apology, but helps us release our own pain, develop compassion, and gradually create the freedom to respond differently. Timetable 00:00 Losing a Father & the Root of Blame 05:32 Seeing Your Own Role: A Cultural Story 12:01 No One to Blame: Self vs. Delusions 18:19 Karma, Conditions, and Feeling Neglected 23:43 When Neglect Is Real: Learning to Forgive 31:28 The Journey to Genuine Forgiveness 39:51 Forgiveness, Compassion, and Self-Compassion 46:07 Preventing Relapse on the Forgiveness Path Book References by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso 📖 How To Transform Your Life: ⁠ https://howtotyl.com/ ⁠ 📖 The New Eight Steps to Happiness: ⁠ https://kadampa.org/book/eight-steps-to-happiness ⁠ Want More? Find a meditation center near you: ⁠ https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en ⁠ Listen to teaching clips: ⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z ⁠ Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. #Kadampa #KadampaBuddhism #Buddhism #Forgiveness #SelfForgiveness #LettingGo #InnerPeace #MindTraining #Meditation #PatientAcceptance #Compassion #AngerManagement #EmotionalHealing #BuddhistWisdom #GesheKelsangGyatso

In today’s episode, Gen Kelsang Sherab shares the remarkable journey that took him from being a professional musician in Israel and the Netherlands to becoming a Buddhist monk and meditation teacher. Looking back on his early search for meaning, he describes the quiet sense that something was missing from his life, even when everything appeared successful from the outside. His encounter with Kadampa Buddhism introduced him to teachings that helped him understand the nature of samsara, the importance of moral discipline, and the possibility of transforming the mind through meditation. He recalls the books that first captured his attention, including Clear Light of Bliss , Tantric Grounds and Paths , Introduction to Buddhism , and Joyful Path of Good Fortune , and explains how these teachings gradually changed the direction of his life. Sherab also reflects on his mother’s death, difficult experiences with his family, his decision to give up music, and the painful process of realizing that the Buddhist path he had built for himself needed to be completely rebuilt. Throughout the conversation, he explores the role of the Dharma Protector, the importance of learning from our mistakes, and why meditation is not about fighting the mind but learning to understand and work with it. Ultimately, this is a story about discovering what truly brings happiness, having the courage to change direction, and finding a deeper purpose through Dharma practice. 00:00 From Musician to Buddhist Monk 05:01 Searching for a Spiritual Guide 10:05 Discovering Kadampa Buddhism and Books 15:00 Samsara, Sorrow, and Losing His Mother 20:00 Choosing Ordination Over Music 25:02 Family Conflict and Spiritual Growth 30:00 Understanding the Dharma Protector 35:00 Virtue, Truth, and Samsara Book References by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso📖 Introduction to Buddhism: https://kadampa.org/book/introduction... 📖 Clear Light of Bliss: https://kadampa.org/book/clear-light-... 📖 Tantric Grounds and Paths: https://kadampa.org/book/tantric-grou... 📖 Joyful Path of Good Fortune: https://kadampa.org/book/joyful-path-... Want More? Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search... Listen to teaching clips: ⁠ YouTube: / @nktikbu Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEy... Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: / modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: / modernbuddhismpodcast TikTok: / modernbuddhismpodcast #KadampaBuddhism #Buddhism #Meditation #BuddhistMeditation #GenKelsangSherab #ModernBuddhism #Dharma #SpiritualJourney #BuddhistMonk #InnerPeace #Samsara #DharmaProtector #JoyfulPathOfGoodFortune #MindTraining #Happiness

In today's episode, Kadam Michelle draws on 25+ years as a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso to explore how to find peace amid genuine uncertainty. Recounting her years as a resident teacher through three major hurricanes in Florida, she describes what she calls the "cone of uncertainty" - the idea that our entire life, not just a storm's path, is already pervaded by unpredictability. She explains the practice of patient acceptance: peacefully accepting whatever arises rather than rejecting it, since rejection never changes reality and only adds mental pain on top of an already difficult situation. Michelle shares how thinking of our possessions, and even our own bodies, as merely "borrowed" for this life helps loosen the grip of attachment, and how meditating on death - not to create fear, but to clarify what truly matters - transforms daily interactions into something meaningful. She also addresses a common objection: doesn't real change require anger? Drawing a distinction between the destabilizing energy of anger and the stable, wise energy of compassion, she makes the case that a peaceful mind is not passive, but is in fact the most effective foundation for helping others and for living, and eventually dying, well. 00:00 Introduction: Life in Florida's Hurricane Season 04:45 Patient Acceptance and Letting Go of Attachment 10:06 Community, Compassion, and Helping After Disaster 16:06 Uncertainty, Impermanence, and Life's Storms 21:04 Training the Mind Through Patient Acceptance 26:08 Is Anger Ever the Right Response? 30:17 Building an Inner Refuge Through Meditation 34:24 Meditating on Death to Live Meaningfully Book References How To Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso https://howtotyl.com/ The New Meditation Handbook by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso https://kadampa.org/book/the-new-medi... Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Want More? Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search... Listen to teaching clips:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEy... Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: / modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: / modernbuddhismpodcast TikTok: / modernbuddhismpodcast #KadampaBuddhism #PatientAcceptance #Impermanence #Meditation #InnerPeace #BuddhistWisdom #GesheKelsangGyatso #MindfulLiving #Detachment #MeditationOnDeath #Compassion #NewKadampaTradition #ModernBuddhism #Resilience #SpiritualPractice

In today’s episode, Gen Chodor reflects on a powerful feeling he had as a young person - that life seemed almost dream-like - and how this sparked a deep search for meaning and purpose. Drawing on the wisdom of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, he explores how meditation can help us see reality more clearly, free ourselves from distraction, and discover a deeper, more lasting sense of inner peace. The conversation explores the transformative impact of meeting authentic spiritual teachings, the decision to dedicate one's life to Dharma practice, and the profound benefits of training the mind. Through personal stories and practical insights, Gen Chodor shows how genuine happiness and purpose arise not from external achievements, but from developing wisdom, compassion, and a positive state of mind. Chapters 00:00 Questioning Reality and Finding Buddhism 05:21 Meaning, Happiness and Inner Development 10:09 Morning Meditation and Setting Direction 13:03 Leaving Corporate Life Behind 20:18 Death, Impermanence and Living Without Regret 28:35 Why Spiritual Life Brings Meaning 31:17 Discovering Your Authentic Self 36:07 Grasping, Reality and the Dreamlike Self 43:20 The Extraordinary Potential of the Mind 49:04 Books and Final Advice Book References How To Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Want More? Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast #Buddhism #Meditation #Kadampa #NewKadampaTradition #GesheKelsangGyatso #MindTraining #InnerPeace #LucidDreaming #SpiritualGrowth #BuddhistWisdom #HowToUnderstandTheMind #ModernBuddhism #Concentration #MeaningOfLife

In today's episode, Gen Kelsang Chökyong - a Buddhist monk from Wales - shares the story of how he stumbled into a Dharma class while sheltering from the rain with a kebab, and never left. Drawing on nearly thirty years of practice and teaching within the New Kadampa Tradition, he explores why the mind - not external circumstances - is the true source of all our happiness and suffering. He explains the Buddhist concept of self-grasping ignorance and how this single delusion drives everything from daily irritation and relationship problems to the world's largest conflicts. Gen Chökyong highlights how meditation and compassion gradually erode this grasping, revealing a natural peace that was always there. He shares life-changing insights into the nature of feelings - pointing out that most of what torments us is just a feeling, and feelings always pass. He concludes with a very helpful approach to making mistakes. Instead of turning on ourself, we can realize that without making mistakes it’s unlikely that we’ll learn and improve. Warm, funny, and deeply practical, this episode is a masterclass in how Buddhist wisdom applies directly to modern anxiety, relationships, and the art of letting go. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Finding Dharma 05:00 Seeing Through the Fantasy of Worldly Life 09:20 How the Mind Creates Its Own Suffering 15:00 Buddhism's Relevance for Modern Life and Young People 22:40 Confidence, Self-Image, and Letting Go of Comparison 27:20 Working with Difficulties 28:45 Feelings and the Power of Letting Go 33:55 Compassion and Learning from Mistakes Book References In this episode Gen Chökyong references: How to Solve our Human Problems - https://kadampa.org/book/how-to-solve-our-human-problems How to Transform Your Life - https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Chökyong is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you : https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips : Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 #KadampaBuddhism #Buddhism #Meditation #InnerPeace #MindTraining #GesheKelsangGyatso #NewKadampaTradition #BuddhistTeachings #Mindfulness #LetGo #SelfGrasping #Compassion #Patience #HappinessWithin #BuddhistPodcast

n today's episode, Kadam Mick Marcon explores one of the biggest challenges in life - how to cope with uncertainty. Drawing on his own experience of losing his mother, witnessing a stranger's fear on a turbulent flight, and years of practising and teaching within the New Kadampa Tradition, he reveals why our struggle with uncertainty runs far deeper than the unpredictable events of the outside world. He explains how unrealistic expectations - the wish for things to be permanent in a world defined by impermanence - are at the very root of our suffering, and why no amount of external change has ever, or will ever, resolve this inner conflict. Kadam Mick walks us through the tools Buddhism has to offer for working with the mind - from breathing meditation to the contemplation of impermanence - and distinguishes between the pain of attachment and the freedom of genuine love. Whether you are struggling to let go of a past relationship, facing the loss of someone you love, or simply overwhelmed by the chaos of the modern world, this episode offers a genuinely transformative perspective on how to truly be at peace with uncertainty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction - Uncertainty and Human Nature 05:10 Bushfires, Escape Artists, and the Unprepared Mind 08:00 The Travel Blogger on a Turbulent Flight 11:00 Why Taming the Mind Feels Impossible 15:38 Informal Meditation - Becoming a Student of Life 18:07 The World's Problems and the Internal Answer 23:27 Unrealistic Wishes and the Root of Suffering 30:08 Letting Go of a Painful Past 36:03 Relationships, Meaning, and Inner Development 38:14 Detachment vs. Non-Attachment Explained 42:47 Love, Attachment, and the Teachings on ImpermanenceSubscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Want More? Find a meditation center near you - https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips - https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z #Kadampa #Buddhism #Meditation #Impermanence #Uncertainty #LettingGo #MindTraining #InnerPeace #Attachment #NonAttachment #Acceptance #BuddhistTeachings #MindfulLiving #GesheKelsangGyatso #Kadampa #SpiritualGrowth #Dharma #Podcast

In today’s episode, Gen Kelsang Norden explores the meaning of karma and how understanding it can become a liberating and empowering force in our lives. Speaking from her heart and her own experience of practicing these teachings, she explains how our thoughts and actions shape the way we experience the world and what we encounter in the future. We learn that karma is something we can actively reshape through the choices we make each day. By recognizing that our experiences arise from our own past actions, we can free ourselves from the painful mental states of blame, victimhood, and resentment, and instead cultivate genuine personal responsibility and inner freedom. Gen Norden also explains the “mirror of karma,” the idea that every experience reflects our actions back to us, helping us to live with greater integrity and authenticity. She reminds us that at the end of our lives, what remains with us is not how others saw us, but the imprints of our own actions. Alongside this, she shares transformative practices such as taking and giving meditation and rejoicing in the happiness of others, showing how compassion and selflessness not only bring happiness and confidence, but also create powerful positive karma. This episode offers a clear and heartfelt presentation of one of Buddha’s principal teachings, and a practical guide to living with greater authenticity, freedom, and joy. Chapters 00:00 A Powerful Method to Overcome Fear 6:33 The Secret to Feeling Joy Anytime 15:50 Can You Love People Who Hurt You? 19:20 Why We Lose Control (And How to Catch It) 23:28 Is Reality Actually Subjective? 31:07 Why You’re Not Stuck in Your Life 35:15 How to Take Control of Your Future 47:10 Integrity, Authenticity and Self-Confidence 53:00 Can I be Happy In an Uncertain World? 58:05 The Path to Inner Freedom Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Book References In this episode Gen Kelsang Norden references: How to Transform Your Life - https://howtotyl.com/ The New Eight Steps to Happiness - https://kadampa.org/book/eight-steps-to-happiness Want More? Find a meditation center near you - https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips - https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z #Buddhism #Meditation #MindTraining #Karma #InnerPeace #SelfGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #Mindfulness #Compassion #SpiritualGrowth #AnxietyRelief #EmotionalIntelligence #LettingGo #HappinessWithin #Wisdom #Dharma #Podcast

Cameron Mathison Opens Up About Facing Hate on Social Media Part 2 of 2 (Part 1 is here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3oSYw1flcsUDbauL2feq0h?si=rPsZdHERQOeZcLyr9TqXfA ) In this second part of the interview with actor Cameron Mathison, we learn how it feels to play one of TV's most despised characters. Cameron explains how he was able to see the truth of Buddha's teachings reflected in the character, using it as a mirror that helped him deepen his own spiritual training. However, the training didn't stop there. Cameron faced online hate as well as real-life confrontations from people unable to separate the role from the man behind it. He reflects on how he was able to transform these difficult experiences into spiritual growth that helps and inspires others. The feature concludes with a powerful message: that being authentic and accountable is the foundation of true strength and resilience. Chapters 00:00 How Playing a Villain Mirrors the Mind 05:02 Handling Hate & Public Criticism 08:47 Building Resilience Through Challenges 12:03 How Delusions Negatively Shape Our Life 15:11 The Inner Conflict of Self-Cherishing 17:02 Why We Need Spiritual Friends & Accountability Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Book References ⁠ How To Transform Your Life ⁠ by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso ⁠ Eight Steps To Happiness ⁠ by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Want More? Find a meditation center near you - ⁠ https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en⁠ Listen to teaching clips - https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z⁠ Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast ⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠ https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4⁠ #Kadampa #Buddhism #Meditation #GesheKelsangGyatso #HowToTransformYourLife #EightStepsToHappiness #ModernBuddhism #MindTraining #Lojong #InnerPeace #SpiritualGrowth #Meditation #MentalHealth #BuddhistWisdom #SelfTransformation

Cameron Mathison on how he rebuilt his life after the LA fires, cancer, death, and divorce In today’s episode, we’re delighted to welcome actor and talk show host Cameron Mathison, who shares his deeply personal journey—from success in the entertainment industry to discovering lasting inner peace through the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Cameron opens up about a series of profound life challenges, including his battle with cancer, his mother’s dementia and passing, job loss, the breakdown of his marriage, and the devastating loss of his home in a fire—along with the memories it held. In this honest and inspiring conversation, he explains how meditation and Buddhist practice helped him not only navigate these hardships, but transform his experience—becoming happier, freer, and more resilient in the process. Chapters 00:00 When Success Was Not Enough 05:12 Discovering Kadampa Meditation 10:18 Learning to Work With the Mind 15:02 Practicing Dharma in the Entertainment Industry 19:03 Kindness in Difficult Relationships 23:48 Humility, Perspective & Real Success 28:04 Accepting Change When Life Falls Apart 32:10 Cancer, Loss & Major Life Challenges 37:40 Training the Mind Through Hardship 43:05 Relying on Sangha, Teacher & Dharma Book References How To Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Eight Steps To Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Want More? Find a meditation center near you - https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 #Kadampa #Buddhism #Meditation #GesheKelsangGyatso #HowToTransformYourLife #EightStepsToHappiness #ModernBuddhism #MindTraining #Lojong #InnerPeace #SpiritualGrowth #Meditation #MentalHealth #BuddhistWisdom #SelfTransformation

I Grieved for 20 Years… Until I Learned This We are delighted to welcome back Gen Gomlam in this powerful episode. How do you transform the pain of loss into something life-enhancing? In this conversation, Gen Gomlam – a Buddhist nun and former hospice nurse – shares her deeply personal journey through grief, from the loss of her brother to the healing of her relationship with her father. Drawing on Buddha's teachings on the mind, she explores how attachment keeps us locked in pain, why grief isn't the badge of love we think it is, and how real happiness can only be found within. Whether you're navigating loss right now or simply want to understand your mind better, this conversation offers practical wisdom and genuine hope. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:24 Early Experiences With Loss 04:11 Pain Comes From Our Reaction 06:41 Understanding Attachment 11:27 Prolonged Grief Is Attachment 19:07 Love Doesn't Die When They Die 20:36 Healing With Her Father 27:02 Tara's Mantra and the Funeral 31:03 Looking for Love vs. Loving Others 34:00 Therapy, Dharma and Lasting Change Book References How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Gen Kelsang Gomlam is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Want More? Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast #KadampaBuddhism #ModernBuddhism #GesheKelsangGyatso #Geshela #TrainTheMind #ModernLifeBuddhism #InnerPeace #MindTraining #KadampaLife #BuddhistPodcast #HappinessWithin #MeditationPractice #SpiritualJourney #NewKadampaTradition

In today’s episode, Kadam Adam speaks with Shelley about her journey through illness, business leadership, and spiritual transformation, explaining how facing cancer became a powerful wake-up call to re-examine her priorities. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she reflects on the challenges of bringing compassion and wisdom into the workplace, especially when making difficult decisions such as letting staff go or navigating ethical dilemmas. She describes how meditation helped her develop a long-term perspective on happiness and success, and how applying Buddhist principles in daily life transformed not only her own mind but also the way she related to others. This episode shows how difficulties can become the fuel for spiritual growth and how, by training our mind with patience and compassion, we can find meaning and purpose even in the hardest moments. Chapters 00:00 Facing Cancer & Wake-Up Call 05:10 Business Career & Ethical Challenges 10:40 Bringing Compassion Into Leadership 16:20 Meditation in Everyday Decisions 22:30 Long-Term View of Happiness 28:00 Crisis as Spiritual Turning Point 34:15 Discovering Kadampa Buddhism 40:10 Applying Dharma in Daily Life 46:00 Meaning, Purpose & Inner Change 52:20 Advice for Modern Practitioners Book References Modern Buddhism https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life https://howtotyl.com/ Want More? Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nktikbu Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. #KadampaBuddhism #GesheKelsangGyatso #MeditationInDailyLife #ModernBuddhism #SpiritualGrowth #MindTraining #CompassionInBusiness #OvercomingCancer #InnerPeace #CancerJourney #BuddhistWisdom #PersonalTransformation #MindfulnessPractice #MeaningOfLife #KadampaPodcast

In today’s episode, Gen Rinchung reflects on loss, grief, spiritual growth, and the transformative power of Dharma. Drawing on her personal experience of losing her brother at a young age and her subsequent search for meaning, she shares how this loss revealed there was something within herself that was causing her pain. Seeing how destructive mental states shaped her suffering set her on a quest to find a spiritual teacher—someone who could teach her about her mind and how to work with it. Meeting Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche profoundly changed her life. This episode explores how changing our mind is the only realistic way to change the world, bringing hope, purpose, and deep peace, and how authentic spiritual practice helps us live a more meaningful and compassionate life. Chapters 00:00 Facing Death and Loss 05:20 Losing Her Brother and Grief 10:00 Spiritual Search and Meeting Venerable Geshe-la 15:20 Meeting Venerable Geshe-la and Authentic Dharma 20:02 Changing the Mind, Changing the World 24:10 Meditation, Effort, and Stubbornness 29:04 Ordination and Daily Commitment 32:01 Goals, Prayer, and Letting Go Book References Modern Buddhism: https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life : https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Rinchung is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nktikbu Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. #Kadampa #Grief #GesheKelsangGyatso #NewKadampaTradition #BuddhistWisdom #ModernBuddhism #Dharma #Meditation #Compassion #SpiritualGrowth #InnerPeace #MindTraining #GriefHealing #LifeMeaning #KadampaPodcast

In this episode, Gen Ananda explores the Buddhist practice of patience, understanding it as a profound practice of acceptance - not passive tolerance, but a powerful method for transforming anger, conflict, and emotional pain. Through real-life examples, personal stories, and Kadampa Buddhist wisdom, we learn how patience creates inner freedom, courage in difficult conversations, and a healthier way to meet conflict - without suppressing our feelings or fueling them. A deep, practical conversation on emotional maturity, forgiveness, and changing the world by changing the mind. Chapters 00:00 Why Patience Matters 05:20 Working with Anger & Emotional Triggers 09:20 Courage, Conflict & Inner Freedom 13:45 Conflict Without Drama 17:20 Healthy Ways to Process Anger 22:15 Meditation as Real-Life Training 25:20 Conflict with the World & Society 33:45 Forgiveness & Letting Go of Blame 40:00 Healing Through Responsibility & Insight Book References Modern Buddhism : https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life : https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Ananda is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Want More? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Follow The Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast #Kadampa #Buddhism #Kadampa #Meditation #Patience #EmotionalHealing #InnerPeace #AngerManagement #SpiritualGrowth #MeditationPractice #MindTraining #RadicalAcceptance #Forgiveness #MentalHealth #ModernBuddhism #SelfDevelopment

In today’s episode, Gen Demo shares her journey of working with the mind through Kadampa Buddhism and how this practice has transformed her experience of happiness and meaning. Reflecting on her early encounters with Buddhist teachings, international festivals, and meeting Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, she explains how learning to observe and train the mind gradually shifted her priorities and sense of fulfillment. Gen Demo describes how ordination and daily practice helped her see that unhappiness is not caused by external conditions, but by the way the mind responds to them. Through practical examples and personal insight, she shows how difficulties can become opportunities for inner growth, and how cultivating a peaceful, flexible mind leads to a stable happiness that does not depend on circumstances. This episode highlights the Kadampa approach to modern life - using meditation, reflection, and compassion to turn everyday experiences into a meaningful spiritual path. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Training the Mind 05:40 Discovering Kadampa Buddhism 11:05 Meeting Geshe Kelsang Gyatso 17:10 Ordination and Kadampa Nun Life 23:20 Daily Meditation and Inner Change 29:15 Overcoming Problems with Buddhism 35:10 Mind Training in Everyday Life 41:05 Using Difficulties as the Path 47:00 Finding Meaning and Lasting Happiness Book References Modern Buddhism: https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life: https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Kelsang Demo is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Want More? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Follow The Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast #NewKadampaTradition #KadampaMeditation #GesheKelsangGyatso #MentalHealthAndMeditation #AnxietyRelief #PanicAttacks #WatchingTheMind #BuddhistPsychology #InnerPeace #MeditationPractice #AcceptanceAndHealing #CompassionTraining #ModernBuddhism #MentalWellbeing #FindingPeace

In today’s episode, Gen Chogma shares her personal journey of working with anxiety and panic attacks, explaining how meditation transformed her relationship with her mind. Drawing on her lived experience and the teachings of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she explains how intense feelings can seem overwhelmingly real, even when nothing is actually wrong externally, and why it is so important to control our mind—otherwise, it can easily deceive us. Through clear, honest examples from everyday life, she explores how learning to watch the mind helps us recognize the early stages of anxiety, create inner space, and gradually regain a sense of control. Rather than suppressing difficult emotions, this episode shows how gently pacifying the mind allows thoughts and feelings to settle naturally, like waves calming on an ocean. This conversation highlights a deeply practical approach to meditation and mental training that many people will find beneficial. Chapters 00:00 Panic, Anxiety, and First Meditation 05:30 Learning to Watch the Mind 11:00 Feelings, Fear, and Deceptive Appearances 16:30 Acceptance, Impermanence, and Loss 22:00 Using Suffering to Grow Compassion 27:30 Anxiety, Modern Life, and Mental Tools 32:30 Watching the Mind in Daily Life 37:45 Shifting from Self to Others Book References In this episode Gen Kelsang Chogma references : How to Understand the Mind https://kadampa.org/books/how-to-understand-the-mind Modern Buddhism https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Chogma is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Want More? Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. Follow The Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast #NewKadampaTradition #KadampaMeditation #GesheKelsangGyatso #MentalHealthAndMeditation #AnxietyRelief #PanicAttacks #WatchingTheMind #BuddhistPsychology #InnerPeace #MeditationPractice #AcceptanceAndHealing #CompassionTraining #ModernBuddhism #MentalWellbeing #FindingPeace

WHY OUR OWN THOUGHTS THAT SCARE US - & HOW TO FACE THEM In today’s episode, Kadam Lucy James explores the challenges of modern life and the difficulty many people face in keeping their mind peaceful. Drawing on her experience and the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, she explains how our minds are often dominated by uncontrolled, anxious, or judgmental thoughts - a state that has become normalized in today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world. She points out that most people are unable to sit quietly with their own thoughts, and so are forced to fill their life with busyness and distraction, which creates a vicious circle of mental pain. Using the powerful analogy of the mind as a vast, clear sky and thoughts as passing clouds, she demonstrates how meditation helps us step back from our delusions, gain perspective, and cultivate a deeper sense of self. This episode emphasizes that peace is already present within us, and by gently letting go of distracting thoughts, we can develop the space to be able to deal with things in a more constructive way. Chapters: 00:00 Peace and Letting Go 02:00 The Basics of Meditation 06:26 Modern Life and Distractions 11:03 Experiment on Sitting with Thoughts 15:45 Fear of Our Own Mind 20:12 Uncontrolled Thoughts and Judgment 24:40 The Mind as a Sky 29:10 Breathing Meditation Practice 34:25 Experiencing Inner Peace 39:00 Building a Healthy Sense of Self 43:50 Long-Term Benefits of Meditation Book References Modern Buddhism: https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life : https://howtotyl.com/ Kadam Lucy James is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition, an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. Want More? Find a meditation center near you : https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips : https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Subscribe to get notifications of new episodes. #MeditationPractice #AnxietyRelief #InnerPeace #Mindfulness #Buddhism #KadampaBuddhism #MentalClarity #SelfAwareness #PeacefulMind #LettingGo #MindTraining #SpiritualGrowth #Contemplation #MindfulLiving #WisdomTeachings

In today’s episode Gen Kelsang Leksang shares her personal journey from a high-powered corporate career to a spiritual life as a Buddhist nun and teacher. Reflecting on her life, she reveals how experiences that once felt like failures were, in fact, profoundly beneficial—shaping her personal development and inner growth. She explains that when life appears to be falling apart, peace and purpose can be found by letting go of attachment, adjusting our expectations, and training the mind in acceptance. Drawing on the wisdom of the New Kadampa Tradition, Gen Leksang explores how focusing on others, cultivating compassion, and developing inner acceptance can transform suffering into clarity and confidence. This episode offers heartfelt reflections on death, purpose, career pressure, and happiness — showing how even life’s most painful moments can become profound teachers. Insightful, practical, and uplifting, this conversation gently challenges modern ideas of success and invites us to discover a deeper, more stable happiness that comes from within. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Career Shift 02:16 Searching for Purpose 02:30 Father’s Illness & Death 03:36 Refuge, Acceptance, and Peace 05:33 Learning Through Helping Others 07:20 Redefining Success and Happiness 08:10 Finding Depth While Living Fully 12:32 Pressure, Plans, and Life Direction 15:13 Career Advice for Young People 17:09Discovering True Motivation 20:18 Letting Life Evolve Naturally 26:46 Inner Peace Is Happiness 28:02 Acceptance When Life Doesn’t Work Out Book References In this episode Gen Leksang references the following books by by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso: How to Solve our Human Problems https://kadampa.org/book/how-to-solve... Modern Buddhism https://kadampa.org/book/modern-buddhism How to Transform Your Life https://howtotyl.com/ Gen Leksang is a senior teacher within the New Kadampa Tradition , an international Buddhist tradition with over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. WANT MORE? Find a meditation center near you: https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search... #modernbuddhismpodcast #newkadampatradition #innerpeace #buddhistwisdom #meaningfullife #acceptance #compassion #findingpurpose #meditationpractice #mentalwellbeing

Is it really possible to fulfill your dreams? Can you be truly happy all the time? Agnes explores these profound questions with Buddhist nun Kelsang Sama, offering insights into how we can transform our lives by improving our minds with confidence and wisdom. Sama explains how inner change leads to a life that supports spiritual growth and lasting happiness. Book references:How to Transform Your Life ~ https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-... Kelsang Sama is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Manchester in the UK. https://kmcmanchester.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? • FREEDOM FROM ANXIETY: BUDDHIST MEDITATIONS... Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search... Listen to teaching clips: / nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEy... Follow the Modern Buddhism PodcastFacebook: / modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: / modernbuddhismpodcast TIkTok: / modernbuddhismpodcast #modernbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #myjourney #InspiringStories #meaningoflife #motivation #BuddhistPodcast #MeditationForChange #personalgrowth #mindfulnesspodcast #Freedom #truestories #emotionalfreedom #RealLifeStories #transformationstories

Buddhist teacher Kadam Morten Clausen talks with Agnes about his 30 years of living and teaching in the Big Apple: the challenges of modern city life and what they've taught him, and his experience of decades of practising meditation and mindfulness in New York City. Morten is the National Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition for the Eastern United States and regularly teaches all around the world; he is the resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center New York City: https://meditationinnewyork.org ----- The guests of these podcasts are practising Buddhists who meditate 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 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast