Are You A Mindfulness Apologist or Evangelist? | Getting Real with Mindfulness Ep. 8

How do you talk about mindfulness without sounding apologetic... or like you're trying to convert someone?

In this episode of Getting Real with Mindfulness, Claire and Victoria explore the sometimes awkward, often amusing reality of discussing mindfulness with friends, family, colleagues, and complete strangers. From curious questions and common misconceptions to scepticism and outright criticism, they reflect on the challenge of sharing a practice that's meaningful to you without feeling the need to defend or promote it.

Along the way, they discuss:

• How to "read the room" when talking about mindfulness
• Common stereotypes about mindfulness practitioners
• Why mindfulness teachers are still human beings
• The difference between sharing your experience and trying to convince others
• Handling criticism, cynicism, and misconceptions
• A fun challenge: Can you explain mindfulness in 30 seconds without using any mindfulness jargon?

With personal stories, humour, research insights, and honest reflections, this episode asks an important question: can talking about mindfulness become a mindfulness practice in itself?

Whether you're new to mindfulness, have an established practice, or teach mindfulness yourself, this conversation offers a relatable look at what happens when mindfulness leaves the meditation room and enters everyday life.

If you'd like to get in touch to share your thoughts, reflections or ideas for future episodes, we'd love to hear from you. 📧 Email admin@oxfordmindfulness.org

👥 About the Hosts

Claire Kelly is a mindfulness-based mentor and the Director of Teaching and Training at Oxford Mindfulness. With over 25 years in education, she's also passionate about developing and delivering evidence-based programmes to support mental health and well-being in education.

Victoria Fontana is a certified mindfulness and compassion teacher, executive coach, and educator who helps people cultivate calm, clarity, and resilience in their lives and work. Victoria teaches mindfulness and compassion-based programs internationally through IE University, the Mindfulness and Health Institute, and through her own programs at Mindgazing.com

Oxford Mindfulness is a not-for-profit organisation helping people achieve greater well-being and improved mental health through research-based mindfulness. Visit our website 👉 oxfordmindfulness.org