The Sharon Salzberg Metta Hour features Buddhist philosophy in a practical, common sense vernacular. Sharon’s natural wisdom, sense of humor and the ease with which she translates these teachings forge an intimate connection with the listener. From everyday experiences to pithy revelations, each podcast is a journey on the path of self-discovery. 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 forthcoming release, Real Life: The Journey from Isolation to Openness and Freedom , is set for release in April of 2023 from Flatiron Books. www.sharonsalzberg.com
Author and teacher Oneika Mays joins Sharon for episode 291 of the Metta Hour podcast. For over a decade, Oneika has brought yoga and mindfulness practices to people who have felt left out, judged, and alone— from correctional facilities to retreat centers, from Columbia Law School to Lincoln Center. She is the author of “Sit With Me: A No-BS Journey to Mindfulness and Meditation ,” released by HarperOne in March of 2026, and the co-host of You Good? Podcast with Pamela Stokes Eggleston. This is her first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Oneika and Sharon speak about: • How Oneika’s spiritual journey began • Training with teacher, Kimberly Brown • Metta’s impact on Oneika’s existing practice • The challenges of metta for the neutral person • Working at Riker’s Island Correctional Facility • Oneika’s new book, “Sit With Me” • The importance of forgiveness • What inspired Oneika’s new book • Loving people doesn’t necessarily mean liking them • Lovingkindness for oneself as a starting point • Working with the difficult person • The gift of grieving what’s broken • Navigating life within harmful systems • Teaching lovingkindness in prison • The NY Knicks and Collective Effervescence Additional Resources The episode closes with a guided lovingkindness meditation from Oneika with added visualization. You can learn more about Oneika’s work right here and get a copy of her new book, “Sit With Me,” right here . Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 212 : Kimberly Brown’s interview as part of our Mental Health Series released in 2023. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 290 – Remembering Bob Thurman with Mark Epstein
1 hr 16 min
Sharon comes together with Mark Epstein to remember the life of dear friend and colleague, Robert AF Thurman, for episode 290 of the Metta Hour. Robert AF Thurman (August 3, 1941 – June 16, 2026) was an American Buddhist author and academic who wrote, edited, and translated books on Tibet, Buddhism, art, politics, and culture. He was the first Westerner to be ordained as a Tibetan Buddhist monk by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and was the Je Tsongkhapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University before retiring in 2019. He was the co-founder and president of Tibet House US in New York, New York, and Menla Retreat in Phoenicia, New York. In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, there is a 49-day period of mourning after an individual dies, which is considered a transitional “bardo” time. This is a time to honor the individual and support them as they transition into their incarnation through ceremonies, offerings, and prayers. In that spirit, Sharon and Mark Epstein come together to share stories and reflections about Bob after his unexpected death. Mark Epstein, M.D. , a psychiatrist in private practice in New York City, is the author of a number of books about the interface of Buddhism and psychotherapy, including “Thoughts without a Thinker” and “Going to Pieces without Falling Apart.” His latest work, “The Zen of Therapy,” was published in 2022 by Penguin Press. He has been a student of Vipassana meditation since 1974. This episode also includes an excerpt of an archival recording of Sharon interviewing Bob from 2021. Originally aired on the Metta Hour in celebration of Bob’s book “Wisdom is Bliss,” this recording includes some classic zesty-Bob-banter with Sharon, as well as some wonderful teachings. The recording closes with Bob leading a guided meditation. "When we opened the Insight Meditation Society in 1976, we discovered we had a near neighbor, about 40 minutes away in Amherst, MA: Professor Bob Thurman. I’ve felt so lucky to know him as a friend, to have the chance to teach with him through the years, and to collaborate with him on a book, “Love Your Enemies.” Though he was widely known as a dedicated scholar, I was always most struck by Bob as a person of faith in the best sense of the word— faith in each of our potential, in the very real possibility of freedom, in the blessings of lineage and the enormous gifts of people like HH Dalai Lama to the world. Before the sudden, unexpected news of his passing, I noted how much content he was putting on his Substack , what seemed to me almost like a drive to help as many people as he could, to remind us all of hope in these very troubled times. His impact on so many people and the light he spread is so clear right now." - Sharon Please join us as we celebrate and honor a dear friend and dharma teacher who filled our lives with such joy, wisdom, and laughter. Additional Resources Learn more about Robert AF Thurman’s life and work right here . Read some of the tributes for Bob right here and via Tricycle Magazine . Tune in to the weekly prayers for via the website for Tibet House US right here . Learn more about the book Bob and Sharon co-wrote, “ Love Your Enemies ” originally released in 2013 with a tenth anniversary edition release in 2023 in hardcover and ebook formats. Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 107 Robert Thurman and Mark Epstein recorded live at Tibet House in 2018, released in the Metta Hour in 2019. Episode 164 Robert Thurman interview on the Metta Hour (partially included in today’s episode), released in 2021. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the seventh episode in the series, Sharon’s speaks with teacher Geshe Lobsang Tenzin Negi, marking his first appearance on the Metta Hour. Geshe Lobsang Tenzin Negi, PhD , is the cofounder and director of the Emory-Tibet Partnership , a multi-dimensional initiative founded in 1998 to bring together the foremost contributions of the Western scholastic tradition and the Tibetan Buddhist sciences of mind and healing. He is also professor of practice in Emory University’s Department of Religion. In 2018, he launched, with the Dalai Lama, SEE Learning , a free compassion curriculum for children. Geshe Lobsang, a former monk, was born in Kinnaur, a small Himalayan kingdom adjoining Tibet. He began his monastic training at the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics and continued his education at Drepung Loseling Monastery in south India, where he received his Geshe Lharampa degree in 1994, the highest academic degree granted in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. In this conversation, Geshe and Sharon speak about: • How Geshe grew up in the Himalayas • Becoming a monk at age 14 in 1974 • Geshe and Sharon’s first meeting • Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics • Cognitively Based Compassion Training • What neuroscience says about compassion • Tania Singer’s research work • Richie Davidson ’s discovery with neuroplasticity • The inner qualities that are actually skills • Putting compassion into real action • How discernment must guide compassion • Story of the starfish on the beach • How small acts of kindness affect others • Developing the inner disposition for kindness • Is compassion fatigue actually compassion? • The natural reciprocity of compassion • “Compassionomics” by Stephen Trzeciak • Why self-compassion is a struggle • Accepting the human condition • Drepung Loseling Monastery • H.H. Dalai Lama’s SEE Learning Program Additional Resources Geshe Lobsang closes out the conversation with a guided gratitude practice from his book, Engaged Compassion. Learn more about Geshe Lobsang’s work right here . Get a copy of his new book right here and explore the SEE Learning Program right here . Help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Learn more and give at https://beherenownetwork.com/10years . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 288 – Engaged Compassion: Reggie Hubbard
1 hr 10 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the sixth episode in the series, Sharon’s speaks with teacher and change-maker Reggie Hubbard, marking his third appearance on the Metta Hour. Reggie is an internationally recognized yoga and meditation teacher and the founder and chief serving officer of Active Peace Yoga. Reggie's yoga and meditation practice have served as a sanctuary of peace and perspective while navigating the stresses of being a Black man in the world. He has been a featured speaker on new consciousness, racial justice, and civic engagement for leading wellness publications. In addition, Reggie has held many senior strategic and logistical roles across a variety of fields, ranging from global marketing to Presidential campaigning. His life's work sits at the intersection of bringing more peace and balance to activists, guiding the wellness community toward being more engaged, concerned citizens, and enhancing the well-being of all walks of life. In this conversation, Reggie and Sharon speak about: • Democracy as call and response • Re-imagining our current circumstance • What Reggie learned from his stroke • The ability to hope is crucial • Wisdom from Joanna Macy • External circumstance is not the end of the story • How spiritual life informs activism • There is no harvest without planting seeds • Reggie’s healing retreats for Men of Color • The challenges men face from patriarchy • Tending and mending grief • The importance of not-being-okay • Compassion versus the rising tides of hatred • “Love’s in need of love today” - Stevie Wonder • Why extend goodwill to those who harm us? • Compassion doesn’t dictate certain actions • Impermanence as a hope in dark times • What sphere of influence can you impact? • Joy as a radical act of self-care • There must be dancing in the revolution • Finding peace amidst extreme challenges Additional Resources To close out the episode, Reggie leads a gratitude and sound meditation. You can learn more about Reggie’s work right here . Help the Be Here Now Network celebrate 10 years of podcasting and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Learn more and give at: BHNN 10th Birthday Fundraiser See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 287 – Engaged Compassion: Mirabai Bush
1 hr 3 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the fifth episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Mirabai Bush, marking her third appearance on the Metta Hour. Mirabai is an author, social entrepreneur, teacher, and spiritual leader. She is recognized for her pioneering role in integrating mindfulness and contemplative practices into secular sectors of American life, including business, higher education, law, and social activism. Mirabai’s contributions include co-founding influential organizations such as the Center for Contemplative Mind in Society and the Seva Foundation and co-developing Google's Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute. She is also a longtime board member of the Love Serve Remember Foundation . Her latest book, Almost Home , is a memoir published in 2025. Please note this conversation contains discussion of gun violence during and civil unrest at Kent State University in 1970. https://youtu.be/ywY6HGunefw In this conversation, Mirabai and Sharon speak about: The process of writing a memoir Why Mirabai went to the East What drew Mirabai to activism Meeting Ram Dass and Neem Karoli Baba Mirabai in the civil rights movement Sustaining engagement over time Non-attachment alongside passion Loving Awareness as taught by Ram Dass How acceptance leads to change-making The role of hope in activism Revolution is bread and roses Seva Foundation’s roots Mirabai’s advice for social engagement Staying informed in a balanced way How communities respond to compassion action The Lovingkindness Nun in Burma Additional Resources To close out the episode, Mirabai leads a “Just Like Me” meditation. Learn more about Mirabai’s work right here . Her most recent book, Almost Home, is available right here . You can listen to Mirabai’s previous episodes on the Metta Hour here and here . Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 94 Ram Dass and Mirabai Bush on the Metta Hour, released in 2019. Episode 114 Remembering Ram Dass with Mirabai Bush and Raghu Markus on the Metta Hour, released in 2020. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 286 – Engaged Compassion: Parker J. Palmer & Jerry Colonna
51 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the fourth episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Parker J. Palmer and Jerry Colonna. Parker J. Palmer is a writer, speaker and activist who focuses on issues in education, community, leadership, spirituality and social change. He is founder and Senior Partner Emeritus of the Center for Courage & Renewal. Parker holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of California at Berkeley, as well as fourteen honorary doctorates, two Distinguished Achievement Awards from the National Educational Press Association, and an Award of Excellence from the Associated Church Press. Parker is the author of ten books—including several award-winning titles—that have sold nearly two million copies and been translated into ten languages, including “ On the Brink of Everything,” “Healing the Heart of Democracy,” and “ The Promise of Paradox.” Jerry Colonna is a renowned coach, writer, and speaker who specializes in leadership, business, and the practice of radical self-inquiry. He is the Co-founder and CEO of Reboot.io, a company inspired by the belief that work need not destroy us. He is also the author of two books: "Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up" (2019) and "Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong" (2023). For more than two decades, Jerry has championed the idea that work should be non-violent to the self, the community, and the planet. In this conversation, Sharon, Parker and Jerry speak about: Parker’s approach to suffering Responsibility is the ability to respond John Rogers’ forms of suffering in the world The pain of denying that which is true Why humans are drawn to “othering” The innate desire to grow What it means to lead a fuller life Looking for happiness in the wrong places Deconditioning a control mindset Is the world actually worse right now? How to face our fears How to reverse othering We need stories about overcoming fear It helps to do hard things together Revamping institutions to support Getting involved in your local community Additional Resources You can learn more about Parker’s work right here and check out his Substack right here . You can learn more about Jerry’s work and his organization, Reboot.io, right here . This episode is also being released on the Reboot Podcast, available right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 285 – Engaged Compassion: Anu Gupta
1 hr 10 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the third episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Anu Gupta , marking his fourth appearance on the Metta Hour. Anu Gupta is an educator, lawyer, scientist, and the founder and CEO of Be More with Anu . His work has reached 300+ organizations, trained more than 80,000 professionals, and impacted over 30 million lives. As a gay immigrant of color, Anu came to the work of breaking bias due to lifelong experiences with racism, homophobia, and Islamophobia. He is a trained meditation and yoga teacher with over 10,000 hours of meditation practice and has a JD from NYU Law and BA in International Relations and Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies. As a peer-reviewed author, Anu has written and spoken extensively, including on the TED stage, the Oprah Conversation, Fast Company, and Newsweek. His first book, “ Breaking Bias ” came out in 2024 from Hay House and he currently shares his writings via his Substack, Soul Force for the 21st Century . In this conversation, Sharon and Anu speak about: How to cultivate goodwill Bearing witness to suffering Working with anger and delusion Teachings from the Bhagavad Gita Compassion’s near and far enemies Non-attachment in activism Joseph Goldstein’s essential teachings Equanimity in practice Combining the spiritual, personal, and political Collective consciousness as an ocean Wisdom from Margaret Mead, Gandhi, and MLK Jr. Boundaries around media Buddha’s five remedies for anger The lifelines of Sangha (community) Additional Resources To close out the episode, Anu leads a guided meditation. You can learn more about Anu’s work right here and check out his Substack writings right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 284 – devon and nico hase
1 hr 6 min
For episode 284, devon and nico hase return to the Metta Hour to speak with Sharon about their new book, This Messy, Gorgeous Love: A Buddhist Guide to Lasting Partnership . devon and nico serve as guiding teachers of the online dharma community Refuge of Belonging. They teach at the Insight Meditation Society, Spirit Rock, and other centers, offer online and in-person retreats, and speak with students in one-on-one sessions. Their first book How Not to Be a Hot Mess , came out in 2020 and their 2026 release, This Messy, Gorgeous Love , is now available in paperback and audiobook formats. This is devon and nico’s second appearance on the Metta Hour. In this conversation, devon, nico and Sharon speak about: The motivation for the new book After the “happily ever after” Approaching relationship as practice The healing of deep listening Common myths of relationships Buddhist personality types Dukkha (suffering) in a relationship Impermanence informing connection Forgiveness practice Different conflict styles Learning how to repair after rupture Making room for play and joy Supporting each other’s joy devon & nico's three-year retreat This episode closes with a guided appreciation practice led by devon. Learn more about devon and nico’s new book, This Messy, Gorgeous Love , and other offerings by visiting their website right here . Join Nico and Sharon virtually on May 9th, 2026 for a daylong teaching The Fire That Sustains . You can hear devon and nico’s first appearance on Ep. 142 of the Metta Hour Podcast. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 283 – Engaged Compassion: Valarie Kaur
1 hr 2 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion , Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the second episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Valarie Kaur, making her third appearance on the Metta Hour. Valarie is a renowned social justice leader, lawyer, award-winning filmmaker, faith leader, mother, and best-selling author of See No Stranger, Sage Warrior, and World of Wonder. She leads the Revolutionary Love Project, building a movement to reclaim love as a force for justice. A daughter of Punjabi Sikh farmers in California, Valarie earned degrees at Stanford University, Harvard Divinity School, and Yale Law School and holds several honorary doctorates. She lives in LA in a multi-generational family. Please note this conversation contains discussion of gun violence and ICE brutality. In this conversation, Valarie and Sharon speak about: Valarie’s Revolutionary Bus Tour Embodying a world we want to live in Engagement over Escapism Wisdom from Angela Harrelson Valerie’s recent time in Minneapolis Redefining what it is to be a “neighbor” Reclaiming the best of our ancestral wisdom Shifting from either/our to both/and Breathing to alchemize suffering A future that leaves no one behind Love as our birthright How to love opponents without giving in The importance of humanizing the enemy The whole world is our family We don’t go to battle alone Community care versus self-care Different forms of resistance Mai Bhago and the 40 Liberated Ones Additional Resources The episode closes with a guided meditation led by Valarie. Learn more about Valarie’s work right here . Here most recent book, Sage Warrior , is coming out in paperback on April 14th, 2026. You can listen to Valarie’s first appearance on the Metta Hour in Episode 126 , recorded in 2020 and her second appearance, Episode 218 , recorded in 2023. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 282 – Elisha Goldstein
59 min
For episode 282, Elisha Goldstein , PhD, returns to the Metta Hour to speak with Sharon about his new book, Tiny Shifts: How Emotional Health Transforms Stress, Relationships, and Longevity. Elisha Goldstein is a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and the co-founder of The Center for Mindful Living and Psychotherapy in Los Angeles. For over two decades, he has helped people break free from the conditioning that keeps them stuck in cycles of stress and overwhelm, uncovering how emotional health naturally transforms stress, relationships, and longevity. Elisha is the author of several books, including Uncovering Happiness , and The Now Effect , as well as hosting The Emotional Longevity Podcast . In this conversation, Sharon and Elisha speak about: Living in a culture of overwhelm David Foster Wallace’s fish story Insight alone doesn’t create change Underlying conditioning of chronic stress Realizing our natural intelligence The challenge of practicing wisdom How tiny shifts create lasting change Interrupting stress patterns Emotional regulation and impulse control The 4R method: Recognize, Release, Refocus, Reinforce How emotional health supports longevity Listening to the body’s signals Reclaiming our attention This episode closes with a guided meditation led by Elisha. Learn more about Elisha’s new book Tiny Shifts: How Emotional Health Transforms Stress, Relationships, and Longevity and his other offerings, by visiting his website right here . You can listen to Elisha’s first appearance on the Metta Hour from 2018 right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 281 – Engaged Compassion Series: Jerry Colonna
58 min
The Buddha taught a path of awakened living, but how does that manifest in today’s world of constant connectivity and widespread suffering? How do we keep our hearts open without being defined or hardened by the pain that surrounds us, whether personal, collective, or historical? How do we navigate the paradox of holding both pain and joy, without mistaking suffering for punishment or personal failure? Can we infuse our compassion with wisdom and perspective to find the agency to take meaningful action in our communities? In her new series, Engaged Compassion, Sharon delves into these questions and more, engaging in candid conversations with a diverse group of teachers, activists, and changemakers. For the inaugural episode, Sharon’s speaks with longtime friend and colleague, Jerry Colonna—a renowned coach, writer, and speaker who specializes in leadership, business, and the practice of radical self-inquiry. Jerry is the Co-founder and CEO of Reboot.io, a company inspired by the belief that work need not destroy us. He is also the author of two books: "Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up" (2019) and "Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong" (2023). For more than two decades, Jerry has championed the idea that work should be non-violent to the self, the community, and the planet. This marks his third appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Sharon and Jerry speak about: Suffering and the end of suffering The Four Noble Truths Sara Bareilles and Gavin Creel Holding many things at once Where resilience comes from How generosity can appear in extreme loss Jerry’s time in India after an earthquake The dynamics of hope and fear How we actually “get over loss” Misunderstanding karma Control veiled as “magical thinking” How unworthiness leads to isolation Compassion is not hierarchical The Dalai Lama winning a Grammy Suffering versus Extra Suffering Facing our helplessness The fixation with fixing things Finding fuel for the long haul Facing our nihilism Additional Resources You can learn more about Jerry’s work and his organization Reboot.io right here . This episode is also being release on the Reboot Podcast, which can be found right here . You can listen to Jerry’s first appearance on the Metta Hour in Episode 102 , recorded in 2019 and his second appearance, Episode 229 , recorded in 2023. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 280 – IMS 50th Anniversary w/ Dipa Ma
59 min
For episode 280 of the Metta Hour, we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Insight Meditation Society, which opened doors on Valentine’s Day in 1976. Today, IMS is one of the Western world’s oldest and most respected meditation retreat centers, dedicated to providing a spiritual refuge for all who seek freedom of mind and heart. The Retreat Center offers a range of silent meditation courses, ranging from a weekend to three months. IMS Online offers retreats, sanghas, dharma talks, courses, and other programming to support your practice from our virtual meditation hall. IMS also has two adjacent retreat facilities – the Retreat Center and the Forest Refuge – that are set among almost 400 secluded wooded acres in the quiet country of central Massachusetts. In this episode, Sharon presents a special episode from the archives of IMS history featuring her teacher Dipa Ma . Originally recorded in October of 1984, when Dipa Ma was visiting IMS, this dharma talk was given as part of the 1984 three-month retreat. Through an interpreter, Dipa Ma shares the story of how we came to meditation following tremendous loss. She reflects on her early years of practice under the tutelage of Anagarika Munindra and how she gradually began teaching meditation. She also takes questions from the audience about her practice from the attending three-month retreatants. Resources A full transcript of this episode is available right here . To learn more about the Insight Mediation Society, click here . To learn more about Dipa Ma, click here . To learn more about the Dharma Seed archive, click here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 279 – Jack Kornfield
1 hr 10 min
For episode 279, Jack Kornfield returns to the Metta Hour to talk about his new book, “All in This Together: Stories and Teachings for Loving Each Other and Our World.” Jack trained as a Buddhist monk in Thailand, Burma, and India and has taught worldwide since 1974. He is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practices to the West. He is the cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society and of Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. He holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has written more than fifteen books, including The Wise Heart, A Path with Heart , and more. In this conversation, Sharon and Jack speak about: The impetus for Jack’s new book The universe is made of stories Beginner’s Mind as the goal of practice Ajahn Chah’s squirrel story How repetition factors into storytelling Trusting the gifts of interconnectedness Ram Dass as the great public neurotic The glance of mercy The Bodhisattva Vow Envisioning generosity to change the world Working with our expectations Despair is not the end of the story Mindful Service as a source of happiness The Insight Meditation Society's 50th anniversary The founding of IMS told by Jack How the Dharma evolves across cultures This episode closes with a guided meditation from Jack. Learn more about Jack’s many offerings right here and get yourself a copy of his new book All in This Together. Join the IMS 50th anniversary online celebration on February 14th, 2026! Learn more and register right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 278 – Parvati Markus
55 min
For episode 278, Sharon sits down with author and friend, Parvati Markus , the editor of the new Ram Dass book, “ There is No Other: The Way to Harmony and Wholeness.” Parvati is a developmental editor who has been midwifing non-fiction books and memoirs since her first efforts with Ram Dass’s classic Be Here Now. She serves on the Board of Advisors for the Love Serve Remember Foundation and has helped with many other spiritual organizations and events. Parvati is also the author of numerous books, including Whisper in the Heart and Love Everyone . This is Parvati’s first appearance on the Metta Hour. In this conversation, Parvati and Sharon speak about: How Parvati found her path Meeting Neem Karoli Baba Ram Dass and Parvati’s friendship Parvati’s contribution to “ Be Here Now” The inspiration for “ There is No Other” Moving past “us” and “them” Balancing real life & spiritual life Substituting noticing for judging Neem Karoli Baba’s directive of service Ram Dass learning to accept help Moving from Role to Soul How to be here now in times of difficulty Community as the future Buddha Joseph Goldstein’s fateful meeting with Ram Dass What is Loving Awareness Ram Dass’s final public appearance This episode closes with a guided meditation from Ram Dass that invites us to let go of the heaviness of confusion and our rigid models of who we are and how it is. Learn more about Parvati’s many book projects right here and get yourself a copy of Ram Dass’s new book “There is No Other” right here in hardcover, ebook and audiobook formats. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 277 – Kid's Series: Richie J. Davidson
1 hr 1 min
For episode 277, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl , released on December 9th! Written with Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness . For this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the sixth episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Richie J. Davidson. Richie is the William James and Vilas Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and the Founder and Director of the Center for Healthy Minds. He is best known for his groundbreaking work studying emotion and the brain. A friend and confidante of the Dalai Lama, he is a highly sought-after expert and speaker, leading conversations on well-being on international stages such as the World Economic Forum, where he serves on the Global Council on Mental Health. In this conversation, Sharon and Richie speak about: Richie’s pillars for human flourishing Free Kindness Curriculum app How to nurture enduring traits Lovingkindness as a training Our whole being is malleable Flourishing is contagious Temporary states vs lasting traits We are born to be kind The Born to Flourish book, coming in March Changing our narratives Affective Neuroscience Six basic emotional styles Evolving the K-12 education space Supporting Healthcare providers Community as contemplative intervention What is Contemplative Neuroscience? The conversation closes with a guided meditation led by Richie. To learn more about Riche’s work or his different books, you can visit his website and access the free Healthy Minds Kindness Curriculum right here in English or Spanish. You can learn more about Sharon’s brand-new children’s book, Kind Karl, right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 276 – Kid's Series: Sumi Loundon Kim
1 hr 2 min
For episode 276, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl , released on December 9th! Written with Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness . In this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the fifth episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Sumi Loundon Kim. Sumi is the Buddhist chaplain at Yale University. A graduate of Harvard Divinity School, she is the founding teacher of Buddhist Families of Durham (NC). She is the author of Blue Jean Buddha ; The Buddha’s Apprentices ; Sitting Together and of the children's book Goodnight Love: A Bedtime Meditation Story . In this conversation, Sumi and Sharon speak about: Sumi’s early life in Zen community Sumi’s first visit to IMS at age 16 The value of spiritual practice during adolescence Teaching meditation to kids through song Benefits of group practice for parents and kids Working with the five senses Implicit learning, leading by example Nurturing kindness in self-talk Creating a home as a sanctuary Designated device-free family time Meditation for college students Social connection promoting self-regulation Psychological fluency A bedtime meditation for kids: “Goodnight Love” Get a copy of Sumi’s book “Goodnight Love” right here . You can learn more about Sharon’s brand-new children’s book, Kind Karl, right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 275 – Kid's Series: Holistic Life Foundation
1 hr 10 min
For episode 275, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl , out now! Co-authored by Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a new children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness . To learn more about Sharon’s children’s book, Kind Karl , and pre-order a copy with a special pre-order gift, you can visit Sharon’s website, right here . For this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the fourth episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Ali Smith, Andres Gonzales and Atman Smith of the Holistic Life Foundation. Andy, Ali, and Atman co-founded the Holistic Life Foundation in 2001, a non-profit organization bringing yoga, meditation, and breath-work to thousands of at-risk kids in Baltimore and beyond. Their work has received wide national attention due to their remarkable results in public schools where suspension rates plummet and graduation rates skyrocket. Outside of the Holistic Life Foundation, Ali, Atman, and Andy also teach to diverse populations worldwide, including drug treatment centers, mental crisis facilities, homeless shelters, and Yoga, Wellness, and Mindfulness Festivals. Their first book, “Let Your Light Shine” was published in 2022 by Penguin Random House. In this conversation, Sharon, Atman, Andres and Ali speak about: • The creation of the Holistic Life Foundation • Experiencing meditation early in life • Working in underserved communities • Teaching with trauma awareness • HLF Retreats and certification programs • The importance of sharing love • Benefits of mindfulness for kids • Partnering with schools and education systems • Modifying practice for younger minds • How to champion love • Encouraging authentic, in-person interaction • Giving from a place of overflow • Caring for ourselves to better care for others The episode closes with a guided practice. You can learn more about the Holistic Life Foundation’s work on their website, right here . And get a copy of the book“ Let Your Light Shine” right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Kind Karl Book Launch with Duncan Trussell and Raghu Markus!
52 min
Sharon joins Raghu and Duncan on the Mindrolling Podcast to discuss the loving-kindness lessons in her first children’s book, Kind Karl . Together, they explore how mindful kids grow into mindful adults and why these teachings matter. Kind Karl will be released on 12/9! Co-authored by Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a new children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness. To learn more about Sharon’s forthcoming children’s book, Kind Karl, and pre-order a copy with a special pre-order gift, you can visit Sharon’s website, right here. This time on Mindrolling, Duncan, Sharon, and Raghu connect over: Sharon’s upcoming children’s book on mindfulness and loving-kindness, Kind Karl Understanding how habits like greed and fear begin in early childhood How issues like greed have roots in early childhood Learning from Karl the Crocodile: navigating big feelings, mistakes, and emotional complexity Karl the Crocodile as an inspiration for parents dealing with guilt and stress Making mindfulness accessible and engaging for children of all ages Putting our thoughts onto clouds and allowing them to float away Loving-kindness meditations for kids: getting the whole family into mindfulness practice 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.com and check out Insight Meditation Society . “It’s not a small thing to have even a little act of kindness because of what’s happening to us inside. That’s something Karl the Crocodile gets into. He really decides to change when he makes that experiment, which can be kind of radical: help them instead of hurt them, help yourself, and forgive yourself. How does it feel inside when we choose that?” –Sharon Salzberg About Duncan Trussell: Duncan Trussell is a stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor. His popular podcast, The Duncan Trussell Family Hour , has been downloaded over 25 million times and is known for its blend of humor, fringe ideas, eclectic guests, and great interviews. The DTFH is the foundation for Duncan’s Netflix animated series, The Midnight Gospel , which he co-created with Pendleton Ward in 2020. To learn more about Duncan’s work, visit his website at duncantrussell.com . "It starts right at the beginning, they want each other's toys. This is built into us. Whenever you look out into the world at the stuff going on and the big picture, it really isn't that different from siblings, except the problem is that these are adults and there isn't anyone to tell them, okay, you're getting a time out." –Duncan Trussell See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 274 – Kid's Series: Meena Srinivasan
1 hr 6 min
For episode 274, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl , coming out on December 9th! Co-authored by Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a new children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness . To learn more about Sharon’s forthcoming children’s book, Kind Karl, and pre-order a copy with a special pre-order gift, you can visit Sharon’s website, right here . For this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the third episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Meena Srinivasan. Meena Srinivasan is an educational leader, speaker, author, and visionary edupreneur. With over two decades of dedicated service, she has consistently championing the fusion of Mindfulness and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). In 2022, she was featured as one of Mindful Magazine's "Ten Powerful Women of the Mindfulness Movement," while also gaining recognition in Educational Leadership Magazine for her insights into Mindful Leadership and Wellbeing. Her recent TEDx Talk on Tenderness is one of the most popular talks of 2024 with more than 2 million views. A dedicated practitioner for more than 25 years, Meena is a newly ordained lay Dharma teacher in the Plum Village tradition, in the lineage of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, who calls her a “precious ambassador of mindfulness.” In this conversation, Meena and Sharon speak about: Aligning inner life with outer work Meena’s early spiritual foundation in Hindu culture Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) SEL practices for different ages & environments Smell the Flower and Blow Out the Candle meditations Supporting kids in crisis Thích Nhất Hạnh’s School of Interbeing The importance of parents'’ and educators’ well-being Community practice as a necessity Transformative Educational Leadership Meena’s research on tenderness with Yale Tenderness versus compassion, vulnerability & empathy The Three Breath Hug Meditation The Non-Toothache Meditation The episode closes with Meena leading guided practice. You can learn more about Meena’s work on her website, right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
Ep. 273 – Kid's Series: Dr. Christopher Willard
1 hr 17 min
For episode 273, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl , coming out on December 9th! Co-authored by Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a new children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness . For this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the second episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Dr. Christopher Willard . Chris is a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School and author of numerous publications for children and adults. An internationally sought-after speaker and mindfulness educator, his books include Growing Up Mindful , Raising Resilience , and Alphabreaths. In this conversation, Sharon and Chris speak about: The benefits of mindfulness in family systems Chris’s personal journey with mindfulness How mindfulness can be accessible for kids Emotional growth and connection at any age Simple at-home practices Modeling calm compassion How kids can emotionally regulate The benefits of meditation in schools Challenges of technology in family life How self-compassion prevents burnout Nurturing empathy, presence and resilience The goal of presence, not perfection The episode closes with Chris leading guided practice. You can learn more about Chris’s work on his website, right here . To learn more about Sharon’s forthcoming children’s book, Kind Karl, and pre-order a copy with a special pre-order gift, you can visit Sharon’s website, right here . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .
