Explore every episode of the podcast Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg

Dive into the complete episode list for Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	Ep. 298 – Ann Tashi Slater	27 Oct 2026	00:58:15
For episode 298, Sharon sits down with first-time guest Ann Tashi Slater. Ann Tashi Slater is the author of Traveling in Bardo: The Art of Living in an Impermanent World. She has written for The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Paris Review, and Oprah Daily, among others, and is a contributing editor at Tricycle, where she hosts an interview series about bardo and the art of living. Ann’s speaking and teaching engagements include Princeton, Columbia, Oxford, and The American University of Paris. Her work explores how our personal histories and cultural roots shape us—and how we find meaning in a world where everything changes and ends. This is Ann’s first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Ann and Sharon speak about: • Ann’s exploration of her Tibetan roots • The liminal periods of our lives • The definition of bardo • How Ann discovered bardo teachings • The Tibetan Book of the Dead • The story of Ann’s great-grandfather • Examples of everyday bardos • Becoming more intimate with uncertainty • Opening to being undefined in transitions • Bardo leading to the experience of non-self • How lovingkindness affects bardo periods • What role grief plays in bardo • The Buddhist story of Kisa Gotami • Non-Attachment, Acceptance, Attention • What Ann’s near-death experience taught her • Accepting reality without giving up hope • How do we live in a world where nothing lasts forever? Additional Resources The episode closes with Ann reading an excerpt from her book, Traveling in Bardo. You can learn more about Ann’s work 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. 297 – Chris Germer	13 Oct 2026	01:21:02
For episode 297, Sharon sits down with Chris Germer to discuss his new book, Self-Compassion for Shame. Chris Germer, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and lecturer on Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is the author of several books including Self-Compassion for Burnout, co-authored with Dr. Kristin Neff. His new book, Self-Compassion for Shame: A Step-by-Step Guide to Inner Freedom was just released in September of 2026 from The Guilford Press. Chris lectures and leads workshops internationally and has a small psychotherapy practice in Massachusetts. This is his first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Sharon and Chris speak about: Chris’s early interest in psychology Learning meditation in the seventies Contemplative practice with psychology How Chris came to self-compassion Sharon’s influence in Chris’s path How loving-kindness changed Chris’s life Chris’s public speaking anxiety Sharon’s experience with public speaking How Chris became aware of his own shame Shame is an attack on the sense of self Shame compared to similar emotions and traits How we can learn to recognize shame How the new book is organized When shame can be helpful Dr Kristin Neff’s model of self-compassion Welcoming all parts of ourselves Taking responsibility for our shame Lean in, lean back, or let go Non-striving and non-fixing in self-compassion Self-compassion is the end of the struggle How Chris approaches his therapy practice Additional Resources: The episode closes with Chris leading a guided meditation on self-compassion for shame. You can learn more about Chris’s work right here. Related Metta Hour Episodes: Episode 252 Dr. Kristin Neff’s most recent appearance on the Metta Hour, released in 2024. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 296 – Tim Desmond	30 Sep 2026	00:56:26
For episode 296 Tim Desmond returns to the Metta Hour to discuss his new book series with Sharon. Tim Desmond is a psychotherapist, best-selling author, Distinguished Faculty Scholar at Antioch University, and student of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hạnh, under whom he was ordained into the Order of Interbeing in 2005. Founder of Peer Collective, and co-founder of Morning Sun Mindfulness Center, Tim lives in Oakland, CA, and teaches mindfulness and self-compassion practices to audiences around the world. He is the author of several books including Buddhist Practices for Healing Trauma, and Buddhist Practices for Overcoming Depression, released by W. W. Norton & Company in 2026, and the forthcoming Buddhist Practices for Calming Anxiety. This is Tim’s second appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Sharon and Tim speak about: • Tim’s new book series • Buddhism for mental health • Right and wrong mindfulness • Thich Nhat Hanh’s influence on Tim’s teaching • Buddhist Practices for Healing Trauma book • The “whole path” approach to mental health • The mind as the garden for working with trauma • What trauma-informed practice is • The better way to catch a snake • The Doors of Liberation teachings for trauma • Buddhist Practices for Overcoming Depression book • The role of Faith in working with depression • Cultivating the motivation/energy for healing • The self-sabotaging aspect of depression • Self-understanding is loving awareness • What offers resilience in the face of suffering • Thich Nhat Hanh’s Froglessness teaching • An update on Peer Collective Additional Resources The episode closes with a guided meditation from Tim. You can learn more about Tim’s work right here and learn about Peer Collective right here. Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 194 Tim Desmond’s first appearance on the Metta Hour, 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.
	Ep. 295 – Caverly Morgan	15 Sep 2026	00:52:28
Caverly Morgan joins Sharon for episode 295 of the Metta Hour Podcast to talk about her book, *The Heart of Who We Are. Caverly Morgan is a teacher of awakening, nonprofit founder, speaker, and author who blends the original spirit of Zen with a modern nondual and relational approach. Her practice began in 1995 and has included eight years of training in a silent Zen monastery. She has been teaching contemplative practice since 2001. Caverly supports others in remembering our true nature—not through more techniques or self-improvement strategies, but through presence, inquiry, and togetherness. The Heart of Who We Are* was released in 2022 from St. Martin's Essentials. Her other book, A Kids Book About Mindfulness, was released in 2024. She is a founder of the nonprofits Peace in Schools and Realizing Freedom Together, and has pioneered ways for communities to awaken collectively, making teachings that lead to liberation accessible to all. This is Caverly’s first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Caverly and Sharon speak about: What drew Caverly to the dharma Her eight years in a Zen monastery Going from monastic life to teaching youth Caverly’s definitions of Zen and non-duality Being aware of awareness itself The shadows of any practice The practice of inquiry and togetherness What inspired the book, The Heart of Who We Are The CARE framework What self-compassion offers Caverly’s work with Dr. Kristin Neff How personal practice impacts others Mindfulness with young kids The Realizing Freedom Together nonprofit Additional Resources: The episode closes with a guided meditation from Caverly. You can learn more about Caverly’s work 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. 294 – George Mumford	01 Sep 2026	01:03:04
Beloved teacher, coach and author George Mumford returns to the Metta Hour for episode 294 to talk about the 2nd edition release of his book, *The Mindful Athlete. George Mumford, a.k.a. The Performance Whisperer, is a globally recognized speaker, teacher, and pioneer in sports psychology and performance. Since 1989, he’s been honing his groundbreaking performance and mindfulness techniques with people from locker rooms to boardrooms, Yale to jail — as Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helping Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and teaching Kobe Bryant to “just be.” George’s work incorporates principles based in positive psychology, mindfulness, philosophy, neuroscience, the recovery movement, group and organizational dynamics, and spiritual traditions from around the world. This is his third appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, George and Sharon speak about:* • The second edition of The Mindful Athlete • George’s three-fold training • Debunking mindfulness myths • Mindfulness versus right mindfulness • The Five Superpowers • How George adapts teachings • Compassion’s role in peak performance • Dissolution of ego for team success • Why George reads a book-a-day • Circular learning style • Ajahn Sumedho’s wisdom • The resilience of the NY Knicks • Finding our enthusiasm • How effort creates energy Additional Resources The episode closes with a guided meditation from George. You can learn more about George’s work right here and get a copy of the second edition of The Mindful Athlete right here. *Related Metta Hour Episodes* Episode 71 George Mumford’s first appearance on the Metta Hour, released in 2018 Episode 214 George Mumford’s second appearance on the Metta Hour, released in 2023 as part of the Mental Health Series. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 293 – Engaged Compassion: Shelly Tygielski	19 Aug 2026	00:50:27
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 ninth and final episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Shelly Tygielski. Philanthropist and social activist Shelly Tygielski has been hailed by individuals ranging from President Joe Biden to Arianna Huffington and Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn to Maria Shriver. She is the founder of the global, grassroots mutual aid organization, Pandemic of Love and the co-founder of Partners in Kind, a purpose in production equity fund that invests in projects that focus on social impact in entertainment. Her work has been featured in over 100 media outlets, including CNN Heroes, The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS This Morning, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. A Garrison Institute Fellow, Shelly has been called one of the “12 Powerful Women of the Mindfulness Movement” by Mindful.org and teaches self-care and resilience at organizations and to audiences around the world. She is also the author of several books, “Sit Down to Rise Up” and “How We Ended Racism.” This is her second appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. In this conversation, Shelly and Sharon speak about: • What motivated Shelly to get her PH.D. • The definition of Mutual Aid • Mutual Aid across history • Peter Kropotkin’s view of society • Cooperation vs competition in society • Thriving interspecies ecosystems • How Shelly’s practice has evolved over time • Finding a balance in our compassion • Prioritizing self-care in engaged compassion • How Shelly has let go of her caregiving guilt • The signs that burnout is lurking • Seeing resentment as a signal flare • Shelly’s advice to change-makers • Activism with our own sustainability in mind • Asking for help before falling into burnout • Joy is not an abandonment of responsibility • How Shelly finds joy in nature and with music Additional Resources The episode closes with Shelly leading a lovingkindness meditation. Learn more about Shelly’s work and her different books right here. Learn more about Pandemic of Love right here. Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 121: Shelly’s first appearance 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. 292 – Engaged Compassion: Rev. Paul Raushenbush	06 Aug 2026	01:02:59
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 eighth episode in the series, Sharon speaks with Rev. Paul Raushenbush. This is his first appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast. Rev. Raushenbush is President and CEO of Interfaith Alliance. An ordained Baptist minister, Rev. Raushenbush is a longtime interfaith leader and renowned advocate for civil rights and religious freedom. Rev. Raushenbush has published two books and contributed essays to several volumes on faith in public life. He also hosts the weekly podcast and radio show “The State of Belief,” in partnership with Religion News Service. In this conversation, Sharon and Paul speak about: • How Rev. Raushenbush came to service • The Social Gospel • Rev. Raushenbush’s interfaith family • How spiritual practice can fuel activism • Insisting on joy in moments of great sorrow • Embodying the future we hope for now • Rev. Raushenbush’s POV that we are all neighbors • Figuring out how to help • What inspired this Engaged Compassion series • How art can be resistance • Where Rev. Raushenbush turns for inspiration • The work of Interfaith Alliance • The possibilities of lovingkindness • Rev. Raushenbush’s husband’s new book, “Good Morning Moon” Additional Resources The episode closes with a reflection from Rev. Raushenbush. Learn more about Rev. Raushenbush’s work right here. Learn more about Interfaith Alliance right here, including its many local chapters. Related Metta Hour Episodes Episode 281: The first episode of the Engaged Compassion Series with Jerry Colonna, released in March of 2026. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 291 – Oneika Mays	21 Jul 2026	01:14:07
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	07 Jul 2026	01:16:59
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.
	Ep. 289 – Engaged Compassion: Geshe Lobsang Tenzin Negi	24 Jun 2026	01:19:35
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	09 Jun 2026	01:10:54
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	26 May 2026	01:03:01
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	14 May 2026	00:51:14
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	28 Apr 2026	01:10:04
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	14 Apr 2026	01:06:48
*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	31 Mar 2026	01:02:10
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	17 Mar 2026	00:59:04
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	04 Mar 2026	00:58:29
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	18 Feb 2026	00:59:37
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	03 Feb 2026	01:10:52
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	20 Jan 2026	00:55:18
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	07 Jan 2026	01:01:27
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	24 Dec 2025	01:02:14
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	09 Dec 2025	01:10:54
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!	05 Dec 2025	00:52:36
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	26 Nov 2025	01:06:26
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	12 Nov 2025	01:17:22
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.
	Ep. 272 – Kid’s Series: Susan Kaiser Greenland	28 Oct 2025	00:55:18
For episode 272, we are launching 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 first episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Susan Kaiser Greenland. Susan is a mindfulness educator and bestselling author, specializing in distilling global wisdom traditions and scientific research into straightforward everyday practices. In the early 2000s, she helped pioneer the introduction of secular mindfulness into classrooms through her Inner Kids model. After decades of working with children and adults and writing two widely translated books, Susan’s latest book, Real-World Enlightenment, was published in 2024 by Shambhala. In this conversation, Susan and Sharon speak about: Susan’s journey with meditation Meditation’s effect on Susan’s son Inspiration for writing The Mindful Child Volunteering in schools Creating the Inner Kids program The importance of storytelling The playful approach for young ages The positive effects of mindfulness in schools The “Pink Bubble” compassion exercise Mindfulness for family dynamics Susan’s UCLA research findings Susan’s most recent book, Real World Enlightenment The episode closes with Susan leading guided practice. You can learn more about Susan’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. 271 – Henry Shukman	14 Oct 2025	01:02:45
For episode 271, Sharon sits down with poet, author and Zen master Henry Shukman. After a spontaneous spiritual awakening at the age of 19, Henry embarked on a long journey of healing and deeper awakening through meditation. Since then, he has been leading a growing number of practitioners in Europe and the US. He is the Spiritual Director Emeritus of Mountain Cloud Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Henry has also created the app, The Way, and is the author of several books, including his latest 2024 release, “Original Love.” This is Henry’s first appearance on the podcast. In this conversation, Sharon and Henry speak about: Henry’s challenges in early life Discovering Zen teachings Henry’s new book, Original Love Mindfulness, Support, Absorption, Awakening Original Love versus Original Sin Mental health in spiritual practice The power of community and connection Henry’s meditation app, The Way How to microdose lovingkindness The episode closes with Henry leading a guided meditation. You can learn more about Henry’s books and teachings on his website right here. You can also learn about his app, The Way, 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. 270 – Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances Part 2	26 Sep 2025	00:48:54
For episode 270, we bring you the second of a two-part episode from the archives. Recorded in the early 2010s in a visit to Asheville, North Carolina, Sharon is teaching on Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances. In this teaching, Sharon speaks about: • Brief History of IMS • The word Lovingkindness • the cultural baggage of “love” • The reality of interconnection • “Never throw anyone out of your heart” - NKB • Looking for the good • How to make a gratitude list • Sharon’s only joke • Making different choices Sharon then takes some questions from the audience on • Feeling the sorrow of the world • Balancing concentration in practice • How do we open despite our conditioning • Learn to let go of grievances • The spaces between the breath You can listen to the first part of this teaching in Episode 269 of the Metta Hour, released on September 3, 2025 entitled Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances Part 1. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 269 – Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances Part 1	02 Sep 2025	00:52:28
For episode 269, we bring you the first of a two-part episode from the archives.Recorded in the early 2010s in a visit to Asheville, North Carolina, Sharon is teaching on Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances. In this teaching, Sharon speaks about: • Her travel adventure to North Carolina • Her first impressions of Asian philosophy • Changing our relationship to joy & delight • Transforming our relationship to suffering • Awakening to the realm of neutral experiences • Sharon’s first time meditating • The three skills of meditation • Sharon’s mantra of “something will happen” • The deepening of concentration • Our tendency to project into the future • Mindfulness is not passive • The magic moment in meditation The episode closes with Sharon leading a guided meditation practice. Stay tuned for the second half of this teaching, which will be released in two weeks' time in Part 2 of Lovingkindness in Difficult Circumstances. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 268 – Anxiety Series: Emma Seppälä	23 Jul 2025	01:02:47
For episode 268, Emma Seppälä returns to the Metta Hour for our ongoing Anxiety Series. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the eighth episode in the series. Emma Seppälä is a best-selling author, Yale lecturer, and international keynote speaker. She teaches executives at the Yale School of Management and is faculty director of the Yale School of Management’s Women’s Leadership Program. She is also the Science Director of Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. A psychologist and research scientist by training, Emma’s expertise is the science of happiness, emotional intelligence, and social connection. Her latest book, “Sovereign: Reclaim Your Freedom, Energy, and Power in a Time of Distraction, Uncertainty, and Chaos” came out in 2024. In this conversation, Emma and Sharon speak about: Mental Health study on university students How self-compassion figures into wellbeing Reflective Best-Self Exercise How the Dalai Lama made a mistake Sovereignty: awareness + courage + energy Suppressing emotions makes them stronger Emma’s experience with an Eating Disorder Working with difficult emotions Different regulation techniques Breathing techniques for regulation Research on Lovingkindness Benefits of meditation How intuition can help our anxiety Emma closes the conversation with a guided breathing practice. To learn more about Emma’s work and get a copy of “Sovereign” on her website right here. Learn about Emma’s 6-week course, the Science of Sovereignty right here. Check out the first episode in the Anxiety Podcast Series with Dr. Jud Brewer on Ep.260 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. 267 – Anxiety Series: Deb Dana	08 Jul 2025	01:04:56
For episode 267, Deb Dana makes her first appearance on the Metta Hour for our ongoing Anxiety Series. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the seventh episode in the series. Deb Dana, LCSW, is a clinician, consultant, author, and international lecturer on polyvagal theory-informed work with trauma survivors and is the leading translator of this scientific work to the public and mental health professionals. A founding member of the Polyvagal Institute, Deb developed the signature Rhythm of Regulation® Clinical Training Series: The Science of Feeling Safe Enough To Fall in Love with Life and Take the Risks of Living. She is also the author of many books, her most recent 2025 release, Glimmers Journal: Reflect on the Small Moments That Bring You Joy, Safety, and Connection. In this conversation, Deb and Sharon speak about: Overview of Polyvagal Theory How Deb came to her work Understanding our nervous system How Polyvagal Theory impacts anxiety Being with anxiety vs being hijacked by it The spaciousness of Ventral Regulation Sympathetic versus parasympathetic The biological imperative of connection History of co-regulation in PVT The Autonomic Ladder Impact of a clinician’s compassion Transmitting cues of safety to others Savoring the practice of 30 seconds The difference between inconvenience and danger The Rhythm of Regulation Breath as a regulatory tool Gathering Glimmers Building the capacity to face suffering differently Breakdown of a glimmer practice Having a sensitivity to our trauma Deb closes the conversation with a guided practice on the Story of the Three States. To learn more about Deb’s work, you can visit her website right here and checkout her *latest books: the Glimmers Journal* and the Nervous System Workbook.** Check out the first episode in the Anxiety Podcast Series with Dr. Jud Brewer on Ep .260 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. 266 – Anxiety Series: Amishi Jha	24 Jun 2025	01:08:21
For episode 266, Amishi Jha returns to the Metta Hour for our ongoing Anxiety Series. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the sixth episode in the series. Amishi is Director of Contemplative Neuroscience and Professor of Psychology at the University of Miami. She studies the brain’s attention system and the effects of mindfulness training on resilience and performance in high-demand professions, including the military, emergency services, and medicine. Her research has been supported by the Dept. of Defense and featured by TED, NATO, the World Economic Forum, The New York Times, and NPR. She led the first large-scale study of mindfulness training with active-duty service members. She is the author of the national bestseller Peak Mind and creator of the Pushups for the Mind app. In this episode, Amishi and Sharon speak about: • Mindfulness in mental health • Cognitive resilience • Eustress and how it serves us • Mismatch between capacity and challenge • Attention as resilience • Flashlight attention for clarification & focus • Floodlight attention for situation awareness • Executive Functioning • How to begin attention training • Myths about stress and anxiety • The participatory nature of the brain • The attentional decline of burnout • Compassion Fatigue • Cognitive versus emotional empathy • Amishi’s new app, Pushups for the Mind • The minimum effective dose of meditation To learn more about Amishi’s work, you can visit her website right here and download her new app right here. Please note that the Pushups for the Mind app is free for all U.S. active service military members. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 265 – Shannon Watts	11 Jun 2025	01:12:36
*For episode 265, Sharon speaks with and activist and author, Shanon Watts about her new book, Fired Up.* Shannon is the founder of Moms Demand Action, the largest grassroots group fighting gun violence in the U.S. Known as the ‘summoner of women’s audacity,’ she has been named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, a Forbes 50 over 50 Changemaker, and a Glamour Woman of the Year. Shannon is also an active board member of Emerge America, one of the nation’s leading organizations for recruiting and training women to run for office. Helping to redefine what’s possible when audacious women unite to drive change, she writes regularly about culture, politics and women’s issues for her Substack, Playing with Fire, and outlets like The Washington Post, Elle, Time, The 19th. Her new book, Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark Into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age, is coming out on June 17th, 2025. To learn more about Shannon’s work, or get a copy of Fired Up you can visit her website here. In this conversation, Shannon and Sharon speak about: The impetus for Shannon’s book How to live a life on fire Shannon’s personal story Marrying our abilities, values & desires Being burned up by our anger Survivors of gun violence What holds us back Sharon’s fear of public speaking The firestarter triangle How we find our desires & aspirations Sharon and Sharon’s top values Living with a sense of what you care about How do we sustain our fire? Community Building Firestarter University Shannon closes the conversation with a short reading from her book, Fired Up. Join Sharon for her new online course, Intro to Meditation, starting June 21st. With meditation becoming increasingly popular, it can be hard to know where to begin. This four-day introductory course is designed to teach you the fundamentals of meditation. This course is ideal for beginners who want to establish a practice, as well as experienced students seeking a refresher course. Learn more: Intro to Meditation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 264 – Anxiety Series: Soren Gordhamer	27 May 2025	01:23:52
For episode 264, Soren Gordhamer returns to the Metta Hour for our ongoing Anxiety Series. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the fifth episode in the series. Soren Gordhamer is the founder and host of Wisdom 2.0, the premier conference exploring living with greater mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion in the modern age. He is also a Co-Founder and General Partner of Wisdom Ventures, along with Jack Kornfield and Yung Pueblo, which invests in companies creating a more just and compassionate world. Soren is also the founder of the Lineage Project in NYC, and also spent a year on the Global Walk for a Livable World, a three-and-a-half world walk. He and Jon Kabat-Zinn also co-hosted the Mitigation Retreat, which was a free 3-month course held every weekday offering meditations and teachings during Covid. Soren is the author of numerous books. His latest, The Essential: Discovering What Really Matters in an Age of Distraction, was released in May of 2025. In this episode, Sharon and Soren speak about: The context for cultural anxiety The development of social media Becoming aware of our stories Do we need a new narrative? Redefining our worth Revamping our North Star Harnessing all our energies Dismantling our armor How shame drives mental health The point of vulnerability Dalai Lama meeting formerly incarcerated Living from a place of lack Ram Dass’ somebody-ness Soren walking the world The role information plays in anxiety Soren closes the conversation with a guided meditation. To get a copy of Soren’s new book, The Essential, visit his website right here. Listen to Soren’s first appearance on the Metta House from 2020 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. 263 – Anxiety Series: Richie Davidson	13 May 2025	01:04:15
For episode 263 of the Metta Hour, we are continuing our Anxiety Series with a re-release of a conversation with Dr. Richie J. Davidson, PhD, that originally aired in 2023. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers, and different researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. This is the fourth episode in the series. Richie Davidson 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. Join Richie’s upcoming course The Science of Flourishing: Well-Being Skills for Daily Life. Save 20% off the course using the coupon code METTA20. In this episode, Sharon and Richie discuss: • How Richie came to this path • Meeting Daniel Goleman and Ram Dass • How Danny Goleman brought Sharon to her first retreat • The term “Mental Health” • Innate Goodness • Believing in Growth Mindset • A vision of possibility for ourselves • The role of systemic oppression in mental well-being • Intergenerational Resilience • Richie’s four pillars of well-being • Personal mental hygiene • “The road to Lhasa goes up and down” - Mingyur Rinpoche • The value of community and teachers in mental health • Richie driving Mingyur Rinpoche • Contemplative Neuroscience • The Science of Flourishing Course • Richie’s new book project • 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 check out the Center for Healthy Minds. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 262 – Anxiety Series: Scott Barry Kaufman	15 Apr 2025	00:50:11
For episode 262, Sharon speaks with Scott Barry Kaufman as part of the Metta Hour Anxiety Series. In this series, Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, Ph.D., is a cognitive scientist and humanistic psychologist exploring the depths of human potential. He is founder of the Center for Human Potential and founder of Self-Actualization Coaching. Scott is the author of eleven books, including Rise Above, his forthcoming book set for release in 2025. Scott is also host of The Psychology Podcast— which has received over 30 million downloads. In this conversation, Sharon and Scott speak about: • Having growth motivation • Shifting the narrative of anxiety • Scott’s childhood experiences • Curiosity versus grit • How to shift out of fear • Creating space around anxiety • Welcoming our beautiful monsters • Broadening the Window of Tolerance • Experiencing a sense of bothness • Scott’s new book, Rise Above • Victim versus empowerment mindset • Learned Hopefulness • Finding the light within • Pros and cons of sensitivity • The blessings of gratitude and awe The episode closes with Scott leading a Tonglen practice. You can learn more about Scott’s work right here and check out his new book, Rise Above, right here. Check out the first two episodes in the Anxiety Podcast Series with Dr. Jud Brewer right here and Dr. Jenny Taitz 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. 261 – Anxiety Series: Jenny Taitz	01 Apr 2025	01:02:13
For episode 261, Dr. Jenny Taitz returns to the Metta Hour for our Anxiety Series. Jenny is a clinical psychologist and an assistant clinical professor in psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles. She completed her fellowship in psychology at Yale University School of Medicine and achieved board certifications in cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. In addition to treating clients in her private therapy practice, LA CBT DBT, she is the author of How to Be Single and Happy and End Emotional Eating. Her new book, Stress Resets: How to Soothe Your Body and Mind in Minutes, is now available in paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats. Join Sharon for a *free live conversation and interactive Q&A* exploring the power of real connection—with ourselves, each other, and the world around us. Throughout the discussion, Sharon, Jackie Dobrinska, and Raghu Markus will weave in the wisdom of Ram Dass, reflecting on how intimacy can be a profound path to awakening. Join this free live call on April 7th: Click Here To Learn More In this episode, Sharon and Jenny discuss: Jenny’s approach to anxiety Emotions are contagious The superpower of emotional regulation Cultivating an inner life Three-point check-in How to break-up with overthinking Getting grounding Cognitive diffusion Naming your inner critic Sitting with uncertainty Building a hope kit Box-breathing Lovingkindness Doing good deeds Examining assumptions Surfing emotional urges Sharon closes with a hypothetical situation about anxiety which Jenny advises on. You can learn more about Jenny’s work and get a copy of her book, Stress Resets, on her website. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
	Ep. 260 – Anxiety Series: Dr. Jud Brewer	18 Mar 2025	01:06:31
For episode 260, we are launching a new Anxiety Series on the Metta Hour. Sharon is speaking with Mental Health experts, providers and researchers for tools to work with anxiety in increasingly challenging times. To launch the series, Sharon sits down with Dr. Jud Brewer MD, Ph.D. Dr, Jud is a New York Times best-selling author and thought leader in the field of habit change and the “science of self-mastery,” who blends over 20 years of experience with mindfulness training and a career in scientific research. He is passionate about understanding how our brains work, and how to use that knowledge to help people make deep, permanent change in their lives — with the goal of reducing suffering in the world at large. Dr. Jud is the director of research and innovation at Brown University’s Mindfulness Center, where he also serves as an associate professor in Behavioral and Social Sciences at the School of Public Health and Psychiatry at the School of Medicine at Brown University, and a research affiliate at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In this episode, Sharon and Dr. Jud discuss: The neuroscientific definition of anxiety Fear of the future How we simulate the future The difference between planning and worrying Anxious feeling versus thought Qualifiers for mental health diagnoses The research behind Mental Noting The antidote to anxiety is curiosity Exploring gratification to its end How much does worrying help? Thinking isn’t what changes behavior We’re wired for happiness Neuroscientists don’t talk about willpower Internet myths about anxiety Deprivation curiosity How misinformation fuels anxiety Collective anxiety Default Mode Network Five Finger Breathing Noticing our “oh no” moments Kindness and curiosity are best friends The Unwinding Anxiety App The conversation closes with a short guided curiosity practice. You can learn more about Dr. Jud’s work and get a copy of his book, Unwinding Anxiety, right here and learn more about his Mindshift Recovery App 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. 259 – The Force of Kindness Pt. 2	04 Mar 2025	01:17:50
For episode 259, we bring you the second half of a two-part series on the Force of Kindness. Listen to the first part of this series released earlier in February of 2025 right here. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has stated, “My true religion is kindness.” Although frequently denigrated in our culture as simplistic and weak, the quality of kindness has an inherent power to transform our worldview from one of fear and isolation to one rooted in clarity, courage and compassion in action. Kindness is the fuel that helps us truly “walk our talk” of love. Recording in December or 2024 by the Drepung Gomang Center for Engaging Compassion. In this recording, Sharon teaches on: The aspiration of kindness Brahma Viharas as a basis for aspiration Lovingkindness as Connection Our Subway Car Reflection on Interconnection The definition of Compassion Sympathetic Joy Gratitude as the energizer Equanimity as the secret ingredient The eight vicissitudes The episode closes with Sharon taking some questions from the audience Join Sharon’s upcoming ten-day wisdom course exploring Equanimity starting March 5th. Learn more 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. 258 – The Force of Kindness Pt. 1	18 Feb 2025	00:49:53
For episode 258, we bring you the first half of a two-part series on the Force of Kindness. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has stated, “My true religion is kindness.” Although frequently denigrated in our culture as simplistic and weak, the quality of kindness has an inherent power to transform our worldview from one of fear and isolation to one rooted in clarity, courage and compassion in action. Kindness is the fuel that helps us truly “walk our talk” of love. Recording in December or 2024 by the Drepung Gomang Center for Engaging Compassion. In this recording, Sharon teaches on: The conditioning we face How our culture defines kindness The compassionate witness A ministry of presence Kindness as a motivational state The emergent properties of how we pay attention Who do we pay attention to? Practicing kindness for ourselves Guided meditation on how we speak to ourselves Punitive environments cannot sustain growth How resilience is developed Sayadaw U Pandita’s trick question Stay tuned for the second part of this series coming in February of 2025. Join Sharon’s upcoming ten-day wisdom course exploring Equanimity starting March 5th. Learn more 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. 257 – Fireside Chat with Christina Feldman	28 Jan 2025	01:33:12
For episode 257 we are continuing the Fireside Chat Series on the Metta Hour with guest Christina Feldman. This series features intimate conversations with longtime dharma teachers about the early days of their practice and the most impactful moments with their own teachers. Hosted by IMS Online, the seventh episode in this series. Christina is of the generation of dharma teachers that began teaching in the west in 1975 after spending some years in Asia studying and practice in both the Mahayana and Theravadan traditions. She is a co-founder of Gaia House and served as a guiding teacher of IMS beginning in its early days. She teaches Buddhist psychology in several university settings in Europe, and she teaches both traditional retreats and study programs. Christina is the author of Boundless Heart: The Buddha’s Path of Kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity and co-author of Mindfulness: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Psychology, among other books. The conversation begins with a guided practice led by Christina. In this conversation, Christina and Sharon discuss: How Christina accidentally ended up in India First encountering Tibetan refugees Christina first learning meditation Dharma as an immersive experience Sharon’s first attempts to meditate Different techniques in Christina’s early practice Goenka’s impact on Sharon Secular Mindfulness Practice versus Path Definitions of Dukkha What Christina is teaching lately Bodhi College Sharon’s work with caregivers Equanimity as embodied understanding How Christina has developed as a teacher The conversation segues to questions from the audience with a guided meditation from Christina. Sharon and Christina then take questions on specificity of intention, working with physical pain, emptiness as a practice, moving from knowing a truth to living a truth, and Christina’s yearly intentions. You can learn more about Christina’s work right here. Learn more about IMS Online 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. 256 – Norma Wong	14 Jan 2025	00:53:18
For episode 256, we start off the year in podcasts with a conversation between Sharon and first-time guest Norma Ryuko Kawelokū Wong Roshi. Norma is a thought partner, a strategist, and a teacher. She is the abbot of Anko-in, an independent branch temple of Daihonzan Chozen-ji and serves practice communities in Hawai‘i, across the continental U.S., and in Toronto, Canada. She is an 86th-generation Zen Master, having trained at Chozen-ji for over 40 years. Norma has decades of experience in organizing, policy, strategy, and politics in Hawaiʻi, particularly in the area of Native Hawaiian issues, serving in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature and beyond. In the Fall of 2024, she released the book, “When No Things Work,” telling stories, weaving poetry, and offering wisdom at the intersections of strategy, politics, and spiritual activism. In this conversation, Norma and Sharon speak about: How Norma became an activist Taking the long multi-generational view How to face discord by seeing the whole When Norms found spiritual teachings The inspiration for writing her book How Norma approaches faith Collective versus individual work Sharon getting humid in Maui Opening to joy and goodness Methods to interrupt habits The rebuild of the Lahaina fires on Maui The episode closes with Norma leading a resonant breathing practice. You can learn more about Norma’s work 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. 255 – Elizabeth Gilbert	31 Dec 2024	01:05:25
For episode 255, Sharon closes out the 2024 year in podcasts with an intimate conversation with Elizabeth Gilbert. Liz is the New York Times bestselling author of Eat Pray Love, Big Magic, the novels City of Girls and The Signature of All Things, and six other books of fiction and nonfiction — which altogether have sold over 25 million copies worldwide. She travels the globe giving talks and workshops that encourage people to lead brave, authentic, and creative lives, and her TED talk, “Your Elusive Creative Genius,” is among their most viewed talks ever. Liz is also the founder of both the Onward Book Club, and the Letters From Love project on Substack. In this conversation, Liz and Sharon speak about: How Liz came to her spiritual practice What love said to Liz twenty years ago Sharon’s experience doing Letters from Love Cultivating a ministry of presence Liz’s twelve-step work with Love and Sex Addiction Two-Way Prayer The ability to receive Love is not a UPS package Earth School What is my next right action? The beginnings of resilience Why is not a spiritual question Acknowledging the interconnection of things *The episode closes with Liz leading a Letter From Love* practice. You can learn more about Liz’s work 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. 254 – Fireside Chat with Ruth King	17 Dec 2024	01:13:16
For episode 254, we are continuing the Fireside Chat Series on the Metta Hour with guest Ruth King. This series features intimate conversations with longtime dharma teachers about the early days of their practice and the most impactful moments with their own teachers. Hosted by IMS Online, the sixth episode in this series. Ruth King is the Founder of Mindful of Race Institute, LLC, and is a celebrated author, educator, and meditation teacher. She teaches mindfulness meditation retreats worldwide and develops meditation practitioners at Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Insight Meditation Society, and the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program. Ruth is the author of several publications including her most recent, Mindful of Race: Transforming Racism From The Inside Out. In this conversation, Ruth and Sharon discuss: Ruth’s first invitation to meditation First hearing Jack Kornfield teach The deep calling to teach Initial misconceptions about meditation Ram Dass giving Joseph Goldstein his first teaching job Sharon’s first teaching retreat Ruth’s first teaching in the DC area Ruth’s life as a writer Artistry and mindfulness Ruth’s BIPOC teaching & online academy The season of eldership The process of downsizing and moving Letting go versus not holding on Nothing is permanent, perfect, or personal This episode closes with a guided meditation by Ruth. You can learn more about Ruth’s work right here and get a copy of Mindful of Race right here. Learn more about IMS Online right here. Listen to Ruth’s first episode on the Metta Hour from 2018, Episode 87, 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. 253 – Cory Allen	26 Nov 2024	00:52:34
For episode 252, Cory Allen makes his first appearance on the Metta Hour podcast. Cory Allen is an author, coach, podcaster, and influencer from Austin, Texas. He writes daily thoughts on mindfulness and mental clarity for his large Instagram following, reaching over a million people a week. Cory is the author of two books, his most recent, Brave New You, has just been released from Hay House in 2024 in hardcover, ebook and audiobook formats. His podcast And Then It Hit Me, has over 300 episodes to date. In this conversation, Sharon and Cory discuss: Meditation Barbie Cory’s origin story Opening to greater possibility Cultivating greater agency Story is everything Keeping language real Having an original mind The importance of self-trust How our faith evolves How Sharon challenges herself Intuition as an entryway to our deeper self Cory closes the conversation with a guided meditation. You can learn more about Cory’s work right here and get a copy of his new book, Brave New You, 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. 252 – Kristin Neff	12 Nov 2024	01:02:36
For episode 252, Kristin Neff returns to the Metta Hour for her third appearance on the podcast. Dr. Kristin Neff is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research, conducting the first empirical studies on self-compassion more than twenty years ago. She has been recognized as one of the most influential researchers in psychology worldwide is an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. Kristin runs the Self-Compassion Community, an online learning platform where people can learn the skill of self-compassion with the help of others, and is author of the bestselling books Self-Compassion and Fierce Self-Compassion. Her new book, Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout, co-authored with Chris Germer, is now available everywhere. In this conversation, Kristin and Sharon discuss: Kristin’s personal burnout Kristin’s definition of compassion Myths of self-compassion What happens in burnout Negativity bias sinkholes The necessity of positive states Healthy boundaries Loving the Inner critic Research on Self-Compassion Self-Compassion Example Scenarios Kristin’s new community offering Kristin closes the conversation with a guided meditation on Self-Compassion. You can learn more about Kristin’s work right here and get a copy of her new book, Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout right here. You can join Kristin’s Self-Compassion Community right here and take her Self-Compassion Quiz 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. 251 – Ethan Nichtern	28 Oct 2024	01:02:54
For episode 251, Ethan Nichtern returns to the Metta Hour to talk about his new book, Confidence: Holding Your Seat through Life’s Eight Worldly Winds. Ethan is a contemporary Buddhist teacher and the host of The Road Home Podcast. He is the author of several books, including The Road Home, and has been featured by CNN, NPR, the New York Times, Vogue, and Business Insider, and more. In this conversation, Sharon and Ethan discuss: What Ethan’s been up to the past 7 years What inspired Ethan’s new book The image of tube people The dichotomy of hope/fear The eight vicissitudes Ethan’s definition of equanimity Holding Your Seat Learning to stay with your own mind The positive sense of pride Confidence as self-respect Building confidence if trauma is present Window of Tolerance The Four Powers of Confidence Ethan’s life as a Dad *Ethan closes the conversation with a guided meditation on Raising Windhorse. You can learn more about Ethan’s work and get a copy of his new book, Confidence,* right here. Listen to Ethan’s Road Home Podcast 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. 250 – Election Stress with Reggie Hubbard	07 Oct 2024	01:04:31
For episode 250, Reggie Hubbard returns to the Metta Hour podcast to talk about Election Stress. Reggie is a certified yoga and meditation teacher and the founder/chief serving officer of Active Peace Yoga. He has taught Members of Congress, Congressional Staff, major labor unions, leading progressive organizations, and individuals from all walks of life the simple tools for managing stress and bringing peace to mind, body, and spirit. Reggie’s life 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. Join Sharon for a 7-day online course that helps us reclaim kindness as the superpower it truly is. Distilling over 50 years of Buddhist teaching into practical, accessible and actionable lessons, Sharon’s course points us to the core of what it means to be alive, connected, and whole. Learn more: Kindness In A Fractured World In this conversation, Sharon and Reggie discuss: Reggie’s recent health emergency Finding agency to take action Life is not a race Recovery process Voting is a sacred act Life in the margins Working w/ intense emotions Reggie’s work with systems Boundaries are our friends The sanctity of your nervous system Grounding into the body Lovingkindness in activism Less pointing fingers, more opening arms Equanimity supporting the process A daily wellness election checklist Sharon’s Ishta Deva, Lady Liberty Reggie closes the conversation with a healing sound meditation. You can learn more about Reggie’s work right here. For Election Resources from Sharon, click right here. You can check out Reggie’s previous appearance on the Metta Hour Podcast in Episode 201 right here, that was part of our Mental Health Series. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

About Methodology Contact Support me Privacy Policy Legal Notice