Mindfulness from the Ashes

Episode #280: Episode #280: In this episode, Matthew Schojan shares his deeply personal journey through recovery, spiritual practice, and public service. Beginning in his early teens, Matthew faced significant personal challenges and began using substances as a way to cope. In his early twenties, while living in New York, he made the life-altering decision to get sober—a turning point that opened the door to years of reflection, healing, and growth.

Navigating sobriety came with its own struggles, including intense anxiety and the resurfacing of long-suppressed emotions. Seeking grounding, Matthew turned to yoga, meditation, and Buddhist study. He eventually found community and support through Dharma Punx, where mindfulness and recovery intersected in ways that resonated deeply with his lived experience.

Over the years, Matthew immersed himself in Buddhist traditions—studying with respected teachers including Ajahn Tong Sirimangalo, Sayadaw U Tejaniya, Jack Kornfield, Martine Batchelor, and S.N. Goenka. His path included deep exploration across Zen, Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana lineages, grounding him in a pluralistic and practical understanding of meditation and service.

After eight years of living and working in Thailand, Matthew and his family relocated to Myanmar, where he was struck by the distinct cultural and spiritual landscape. He reflects on the complex relationship between mental health and meditation, and how these tools can support well-being—both personally and across communities.

Though recorded in 2020, Matthew’s reflections remain powerfully relevant. He discusses the gaps in mental health services in Myanmar, noting that even before the coup, an estimated 95% of people in need lacked access to care. In the current climate of political and social upheaval, these issues have become even more urgent, with mental health emerging as a growing focus for public dialogue and intervention.