91 - Was the Buddha Always a Buddha? (The Lotus Sutra's Chapter 16)
In this episode, we explore one of the most surprising teachings in the Lotus Sūtra: the idea that the Buddha didn’t become a Buddha under the Bodhi tree, but awakened countless ages ago. His birth, e...
29 Maj 29min
90 - Science & Buddhism
Many Westerners are drawn to Buddhism because it feels rational, experiential, and compatible with science. But Buddhism also includes teachings—like karma, rebirth, and cosmology—that don’t fit neatl...
1 Maj 42min
89 - Chanting, Recitation, Mantras, and Dhāraṇīs in Buddhism
Chanting is one of the most widespread Buddhist practices, yet often one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we explore what chanting really is, how sound plays an important role in Buddhist p...
17 Apr 40min
88 - The Buddha's Death & Parinirvana
The Buddha’s Last Teaching: Impermanence & ParinirvāṇaIn this episode, we explore one of the most meaningful and human moments in all of Buddhism: the Buddha’s final days, his final teachings, and wha...
3 Apr 32min
87 - Ten Basic Buddhism Concepts (Buddhism in 10 Steps)
What is Buddhism? This podcast episode covers ten basic Buddhist concepts and also has a video! It's a companion to my book, Buddhism in 10 Steps, that I co-wrote with Buddhist monk Sanathavihari Bhik...
13 Mars 30min
86 - After You Die...What Buddhists Believe About Life After Death
What do Buddhists believe happens after death? In this episode, we explore one of the most common and meaningful questions beginners ask about Buddhism. Rather than offering a single doctrine, Buddhis...
23 Jan 51min
85 - The Six Paramitas (Perfections)
In this episode, we explore the Six Paramitas, the “perfections” that form the gradual training path of a Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism. From generosity and ethical discipline to patience, joyful e...
21 Nov 202531min
84 - Bodhisattvas
Bodhisattvas can be found in both Theravada and Mahayana branches of Buddhism. In Mahayana they take on a larger role where practitioners take on the path of the Bodhisattva towards helping all sentie...
3 Okt 202548min
