Today on Zen Commuter, I’m joined by the insightful and inspiring Jodi Rose Gonzales—artist, author, and art therapist. Jodi blends creativity and mindfulness to help others navigate life’s challenges with clarity and grace. Her unique approach to healing through expressive art and spiritual reflection offers a powerful path to inner peace. Get ready for a conversation that’s equal parts calming and deeply thought-provoking.

✅ Defining what creativity is, on one level, and how it can help us better understand who we are
✅ The intersection of mindfulness and meditation
✅ How to foster introspection through creativity.

Jodi Rose Gonzales is a visual artist, art therapist, author, and mindfulness coach who inspires her students through teachings intended to spread more hope and healing around the world. She is recognized as a top artist by Marquis Who’s Who in America, and a Global Impact Artist by the International Association of Top Professionals. Jodi has authored two Amazon #1 New Releases including the Doodle’s Code and Drawn to Yoga, she is featured in an international bestseller called 50 Fearless Leaders, and she’s the host of The iROSE Podcast. She helps busy creative people who are intentional about personal growth using art-based mindfulness, a unique method that helps people develop insight and self-awareness—AND manage anxiety and stress—in one simple practice.

Begin your free creative journey with Jodi Rose

https://www.jodirosestudio.com/free-art-prompts

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Welcome to Zen Commuter! Today, I’m joined by Leslie Draffin for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of plant medicine, spirituality, and women’s wellness. We’ll explore how microdosing mushrooms can support mental clarity, emotional balance, and even spiritual awakening. Leslie also shares insights on how understanding the menstrual cycle can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and personal growth. Whether you're curious about the benefits of microdosing or looking to deepen your connection with your body and mind, this episode offers valuable wisdom you won’t want to miss.

✅ Utilizing plant medicine to help women ease menstrual symptoms and connect to their power
✅ Overview of how microdosing works
✅ How meditation helps all people connect with what is true and resonant for them

Leslie Draffin is a women's somatic coach, psychedelic microdosing guide, breath & meditation teacher & menstrual cycle educator. She helps midlife women embrace their bodies, sex, and psychedelics so they can overcome the wound of unworthiness, get free from mental health challenges and build a life they're excited about. Leslie believes somatic practices like breathwork along with sacred Earth medicine have the power to bring us home to ourselves, awaken our authenticity and heal the trauma locked within our subconscious.

📌 Follow Leslie Drafffin:

• Activate your Inner Magic: free microdosing guide: https://lesliedraffin.myflodesk.com/microguide

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesliedraffin/

• Podcast - The Light Within: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-light-within/id1554915881

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Sonal is a certified meditation teacher and the founder of CONNECT Meditation. In her workshops and sessions, she blends ancient Eastern wisdom with modern science to make mindfulness accessible to today’s practitioners. Raised in India and now based in Boston, Sonal’s background in corporate human resources, learning and development, and life coaching allows her to connect deeply with both individuals and organizations.

She also teaches at WITHIN, a San Francisco-based meditation organization. With a foundation in psychology, human resource development, and Somatic EMDR, Sonal specializes in trauma-sensitive mindfulness. She also offers sound baths that utilize healing frequencies to promote relaxation and inner balance. Passionate about guiding people to discover the transformative benefits of meditation, Sonal helps enhance well-being, boost productivity, and cultivate compassion.

Sonal finds great joy in sharing meditation as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, helping others connect with their inner clarity and resilience.

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https://www.connectmeditation.com/

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Catherine is an integrative spiritual consultant, former trauma and hospice chaplain, and first time author of the book Everyday Awakening. In her book as well as her private practice, she counsels people on what it means to be alive, and how to awaken into their heart and soul. She has faced death twice and companioned hundreds of people as they died. The deep peace and sense of the other side she witnessed was profound and soul shaping. We can all awaken and it is a choice how we are choosing to live each day.

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https://www.catherineduncan.org/

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Jeff Patterson, from Portland, OR, USA, has over 36 years of experience, practicing and teaching the meditative and martial arts. As the founder of Northwest Fighting Arts/Portland Tai Chi Academy and The Yielding Warrior, where he emphasizes the transformative power of meditative and martial arts practices, particularly the yielding concept. He has published two books and hundreds on instructional videos. Founder of The Yielding Warrior online program and has worked with 1000's of students from around the world.

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Get a FREE copy of The Yielding Warrior

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Visualizing is an important aspect of meditation, yet some people struggle with how to it. My Insight Timer friend Alberto asked if I could help him with becoming better at it, and to that end, I thought I would record an episode to help not just him, but anyone who could use some practice at becoming better at imagining. Enjoy.

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Some people fear being alone with their thoughts. those people understand the benefit of calm that a practice brings, the cost for getting there is too great; the cost of being alone with painful, denigrating. thoughts. Today I talk about how to become comfortable with ‘troublesome” thoughts so that you can meditate if you think it would be beneficial (and it will be) ;0)

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The last time we got together we had the joy of hanging out with Forrest Rivers, Author of tHumanity’s Spiritual Rebirth. As is customary on ZC, when I interview an author, I like to read an excerpt from their book; and today is no exception.

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Website: https://forrestrivers.com/

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069110064900

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@forrestrivers475

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Forrest Rivers has become a good friend of mine. So when his publicist sent me an email to have him on the show I jumped at the chance. He is a man who truly sees thing in such a wonderfully rich way. He drops the labels of good and bad, and helps us see every moment as an opportunity to grow, to understand “ourselves” on a deeper level. Yeah, you can imagine why I have love and respect for him. Today we talk about the ways we as a planet can grow through seemingly challenging curcumstances.

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Website: https://forrestrivers.com/

Social Media Links:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069110064900

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelwlenz/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@forrestrivers475

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I am very happy to be back on the air after a three week hiatus. The longest one in the 10 year history of Zen Commuter. So thank you all for your patience and understanding. I can’t think of a better topic to talk about on my return, than Tonglen Meditation. Today I read an article that talks about how we can reduce our fear of suffering by engaging in a meditation practice that has us voluntarily taking on the suffering of others.

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For some people, a new year is approaching. That may mean that they are looking to start a meditation practice. Well, before you start, it may be a good idea to understand what meditation is a little better. Actually, it may be more beneficial to talk about what it isn’t, or what it can’t do. With this talked about, you won’t have unrealistic expectations when you get to you cushion, chair or bed. :0)

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I have been fortunate enough to speak with a bounty of guests who are changing the world in a wonderful way. Sara Webb is one of those amazing people. The moment we connected on Zoom I felt her warmth and grace. As you will hear in our interview, she is wonderfully candid and vulnerable. As a resilience coach it is clear she knows what she is talking about. Per her own admission, she faced many challenges. But as you would expect, none of them bested her or diminished her light. Come listen to an interview that left me smiling more than I typically do.

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www.sarawebbsays.com

Sara on YouTube

Sara on Facebook

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Welcome to Zen Commuter and day five of Tricycle Week! Today, we’re exploring a challenge many meditators face—the uneasy relationship with the timer. Whether it’s impatience, restlessness, or the feeling that the minutes are stretching endlessly, the ticking clock can sometimes feel like an obstacle rather than a guide. But what if we could change our perspective and learn to sit with that discomfort? In this episode, we’ll discuss how to become more comfortable with the timer in meditation and what it reveals about our minds. Plus, we’ll feature a reading of I Think the Clock Is Broken by Christopher Rivas, offering insights into time, presence, and the art of letting go. Let’s learn to embrace the practice—one moment at a time.

• Persistent Time Anxiety During Meditation: Despite years of practice, Rivas often experiences a nagging suspicion that his meditation timer has malfunctioned, leading to an urge to check the clock. This recurring doubt underscores a common struggle with time perception during meditation. ​

• The Illusion of Control and Fear of Letting Go: Rivas identifies this anxiety as stemming from a deeper desire for control and a fear of uncertainty. He suggests that the discomfort with an indefinite meditation period reflects a broader discomfort with unpredictability in life.

• Societal Conditioning Linking Time to Productivity: He critiques societal norms that equate time with productivity, observing that this mindset can make stillness feel counterproductive. Rivas proposes that embracing meditation without strict time constraints can serve as an act of rebellion against this pervasive cultural narrative. ​

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Even though it isn't Tricycle week I thought I would share an article with you that I know you can relate to.  How do I know? Because you have a body. And if you have a body, that means at some time you have experienced pain.

Vidyamala Burch takes us through a practice that helps us see pain with kindness, sympathy and compassion; a much better energy that resentment and anger. Come listen

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Enzo Dal Verme is a photographer; but not just any photographer. With a decades old meditation practice, he is able to use his mindfulness practice to fully bring himself into the moment, to exist within the creative process of portrait photography. Suffice it to say, because of this he is able to capture the essence of his subjects that might be lost with other artists. His transformative retreats help beginners and experts learn their version of the process. Come listen as we talk about art, meditation and how the two can help us live more fulfilling lives.

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Portrait Photography Guide Free Download: https://www.photography-retreats.com/blog/download-for-free-the-portrait-photography-guide

Portrait Photography Retreats Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographyretreats/

Enzo Dal Verme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enzodalverme/

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Last week I introduced you to a wonderful guest who is helping us all connect to our divinity. Her name was Emma Rowena. Today I have a very special treat for us. I am going to read a few passages from her book, You. Me. And All That We Are.

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You. Me. And All That We Are on Amazon

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Emma Rowena is a musician, performer, intuitive reader, healer, meditation guide, and emerging social entrepreneur, helping people find peace, purpose, and healing in their lives.

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www.emmarowena.no

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Cynthia Hauk, MFA (founder of Mindful Creative Muse), is passionate about sharing simple Mindfulness and Art activities to help busy people de-stress and express themselves creatively. She also trains and coaches Creative Entrepreneurs, Art and Yoga Teachers, and Expressive Art Therapists to move through creative blocks and share their unique vision and services in the world. Cynthia offers online Mindful Art workshops, retreats, and teacher trainings. Since 2007, she has facilitated at in-person and online courses, retreats, festivals, group coaching programs, teacher trainings, and tele-summits globally reaching students in more than 49 countries.

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https://mindfulcreativemuse.com

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What a great way to end Tricycle week; a story that talks about the joy you feeling when someone else is experiencing joy. Come listen.

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Today I share with you my interview with Josh Dippold. He is one of the hosts of the Integrating Presence Podcast along with Wendy Nash. Together they help us learn the benefits of a meditation practice. Which is something that Josh does on his own as well as an instructor on Insight Timer

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Josh Dippold on Insight Timer

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Andrew Cooper shares a profound post that talks about the nature of failure, as it relates to studying/practicing Buddhism. His take is that without failure, it is impossible to move forward. Come listen.

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On day three of Tricycle week I thought we would switch gears and read about something a bit lighter, compassion. Mark Van Buren shares a great post that talks about the ways the little things we do to end people’s suffering, are just as impactful as the bigger things.

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Even though they are different authors, the writers of yesterday post and today’s explore the theme of emptiness and self. While they are quite different views on the same subject, there is one similarity: by understanding what is not present, we can understand what truly is. Courtland ends his article with a wonderfully succinct and impactful meditation.

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Welcome to Zen Commuter and day four of Tricycle Week! Today, we’re diving into a topic that challenges the way we see productivity and rest—laziness. Is laziness a real obstacle, or is it simply a rejection of society’s constant push to always be moving? We’ll explore the three aspects of laziness and question whether what we call “being lazy” is actually an intentional choice to be rather than do. Plus, we’ll feature a reading from Working on Laziness by Dzigar Kongtrul Rinpoche, offering a deeper perspective on how mindfulness helps us navigate our relationship with effort and ease. Let’s reframe laziness and uncover what it really means to live with purpose.

✅ Definitions of the three types of laziness
✅ The understanding that laziness might be a response to societal expectations
✅ How to evaluate if laziness is real or imagined in your body.

Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

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It’s been way too long since we were graced by the wisdom of Tricycle, the Buddhist magazine. But thankfully, that ends this week, starting off with a phenomenal article by Peter Coyote. In it, he helps us explore the nature of self. Or more to the point, the absence of self. He let’s us know that when we given up the need to define ourselves, we understand we are connected to everything. You won’t want to miss this one.

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Nate Zeleznick is a true pioneer, distinguished as one of only two American master trainers of an ancient royal Indonesian energy and martial arts system. He masterfully integrates this unique next-level practice with modern scientific methodologies and technologies through his creation of the Integrated Ascension Method (I AM) and the White Dove Method.

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https://iampure.energy

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With his books published in 16 languages, and over 500,000 copies sold worldwide, Scott Allan is on a mission to transform the human potential. Scott is the bestselling author of Fail Big, Relaunch Your Life, and Do the Hard Things First.

As a former corporate business trainer in Japan and Transformational Success Strategist, he has invested over 10,000 hours of practice and research into confidence development and mindset mastery training.

With an unrelenting passion for teaching, building critical life skills, and inspiring people worldwide to take charge of their lives, he is committed to a path of constant and never-ending self-improvement.

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https://scottallanbooks.com/

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One of the greatest gifts of hosting Zen Commuter is being able to talk with such forward thinking individuals. It get’s even better when those people are simply radiant; full of life and joy. Such is the case today; today I am speaking with Ramona Galey. Quite simply, she helps people explore their spirituality as a gateway to creating a rich and joyful life. You won’t want to miss this. Come listen.

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www.ramonagaley.com

https://www.ramonagaley.com/private-podcast

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• Show notes: jockandnerd.com/552

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The last time we go together I shared a fascinating interview with Dean Graves. Today I expound on some of the topics we spoke of the last time we got together. Our first talk was at the beginning of the year. This one was into the warmer months of summer just as Dean’s latest book was about to launch. In fact, it launched that day. If you are curious about the nature of consciousness, and how to live more peacefully, I heartily encourage you to pick it up. Come listen to another enlightening discussion.

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https://www.ddeangraves.org

The Enigma of Consciousness by Dean Graves on Amazon

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Dean Graves is a renowned meditation teacher, mental health counselor, and spiritual guide with over 20 years of experience in the field. Through his expertise in mental health and deep spiritual understanding, he provides a holistic approach to healing and growth. With his compassionate and insightful guidance, he has inspired and empowered people from all walks of life to embrace mindfulness and meditation as a path to greater self-awareness and spiritual awakening.

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https://www.ddeangraves.org

The Enigma of Consciousness by Dean Graves on Amazon

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There are many focuses a meditation can have; breath, of course, or music, mantras or sounds. But there is a focus that we can use to still our minds that isn’t often talked about. In fact, in my 40 years of meditation, I haven’t heard anyone talk about it. Ready to hear about it? Well, there’s no reason to wait. Come listen.

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Deborah has been assisting her clients gain clarity by helping them understand their unconscious mind. With a degree in Depth Psychology and a firm understanding of Jungian concepts and principles, she works with people who have been living and repeating thoughts, emotions and patterns that keep them stagnant, unable to live their fullest life.

In our talk, we discuss some of the principles of Depth Psychology and how it intersects with meditation. Come listen to a fascinating talk that will have you rethinking how you think.

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Deborah Lukovich, PhD Home

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Many people I teach are able to pick up how to meditate pretty quickly. The bigger challenge they have is creating a consistent daily habit of it. Today, I thought we would talk about six reasons why you have a spotty consistency record. The better part is, I talk about how to fix those pesky reasons.

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Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Today, I am excited to feature the hosts of The Mindful CEO, Aaron Hendon and Chris Angell.

Aaron and Chris are dedicated to highlighting the journeys of socially conscious business owners who strive to create a legacy beyond mere transactions. Their show, The Mindful CEO, delves into the stories of entrepreneurs committed to growing their businesses mindfully, with a focus on sustainability, community impact, and mindful leadership.

Join us as we explore the principles and practices that drive these visionary leaders, and discover how you too can cultivate a business that thrives with intention and purpose. Stay tuned for an enlightening conversation with Aaron Hendon and Chris Angell, right here on Zen Commuter.

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Listen to the Mindful CEO on Apple Podcasts

Aaron Hendon

https://www.aaronhendon.com/

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Chris Angell

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Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Welcome to Zen Commuter and day three of Tricycle Week! Today, we’re tackling a challenge that tests even the most mindful among us—dealing with toxic people. Whether it’s a difficult coworker, a critical family member, or someone who constantly drains your energy, these interactions can leave us feeling powerless and frustrated. But here’s the truth: our inner peace doesn’t have to be at their mercy. In this episode, we’ll explore how mindfulness helps us safeguard our power, and respond with compassion instead of reaction. Let’s learn how to keep our calm—even in the presence of chaos.

✅ Origins and Expansion of Mindfulness Practices: The article traces the development of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) from its inception by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979 to its widespread application in adult mental health.
✅ Introduction of Mindfulness in Educational Settings: It discusses the rationale behind implementing mindfulness programs in schools, aiming to address rising mental health issues among adolescents by teaching them mindfulness techniques.
✅ Evaluation of the MYRIAD Study's Findings: The article analyzes the outcomes of the MYRIAD trial, the largest study on adolescent mindfulness programs, which revealed unexpected results, including potential ineffectiveness and possible adverse effects for some students. ​

Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

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Kiara Perkins knows full well the power that words have. In her work she helps her clients reframe and rephrase the thoughts that hold them back. It’s no wonder her company is called Positive Scripts. As a life coach she helps people clear the roadblocks that they, or others, have constructed. Her coaching style is a blend of positive psychology, spirituality, and practicality, and her mission is to empower as many people as possible to pursue their life vision and purpose with clarity, confidence, and conviction, while having fun along the way.

Her work is not theoretical; she has overcome many obstacles herself. She knows how to help others because she healed herself from some pretty daunting setbacks.

Come listen as we talk about her life and how she came to understand the benefits of meditation for herself and her clients.

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Positive Scripts - Change Your Script, Change Your Life

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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From his early days in garage bands and hip-hop groups to diving into music production in 2008, Kevin's path has been marked by a profound connection to sound and spirituality.

During college, he delved into recording arts and music production while pondering life's deeper questions. This led to transformative experiences, including a five-year residency in Yosemite National Park, where he found solitude and inspiration, fostering reflections on mindfulness, music, and entrepreneurial goals.

Kevin's passions extend beyond the music; he's a devoted family man, Kung Fu student, and conscious hip-hop practitioner. His lyrics and writings reflect unique perspectives and personal experiences, including navigating loss and fostering emotional intelligence

At his core, Kevin believes everyone is on a journey of self-mastery. As a guide, he seeks to transform perspectives and shape mindsets, blending sound, spirituality, and personal development to empower others on their path to fulfillment.

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www.awkwavision.com

Book Time with Kevin to Explore Flow State Mixing - Where inner balance meets sonic brilliance

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Last week I introduced you to a wonderful guest who is helping us all connect to our divinity. Her name was Emma Rowena. Today I have a very special treat for us. I am going to read a few passages from her book, You. Me. And All That We Are.

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You. Me. And All That We Are on Amazon

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Laura is an esteemed international Spiritual Counsellor, Intuitive Coach, and Psychic Medium. With an uncanny ability to pinpoint crucial details across all areas of your life, she brings a unique blend of insight and clarity that resonates with your deepest intuitions. Her perceptiveness often feels like an extension of your own inner knowing, offering a compassionate yet no-nonsense presence that guides her work. Laura's exceptional capacity to illuminate and outline the most positive, life-affirming paths forward sets her apart as both a seer and a counselor—a refreshing and powerful combination.

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 https://www.spiritspeaks2.me/

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Parker Condit is the Host of Exploring Health Podcast: Macro to Micro. He is a passionate man who is dedicated to helping people live a healthier life. What does that mean? Well, it means absolutely anything that impacts our wellbeing. Not just working out and eating right; but absolutely anything that disrupts a life of health, both mental and physical. Come listen to our talk as we discuss the role meditation plays in his life.

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Exploring Health Podcast with Parker Condit

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Dr. Lara May's journey is characterized by her unwavering dedication to empowering individuals to take control of their health and create positive transformations in their lives. With her passion for functional medicine, her commitment to patient care, and her thriving online platform, she continues to inspire and uplift others on their own healing journeys.

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https://www.drlaramay.com/

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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About Jack Schaefer

I am a life long practitioner of asian martial and has spent decades in the study and practice of Chinese medicine and Daoism. I am an ordained Daoist priest and co-founder of Parting Clouds Daoist Education. We are a recognized Daoist temple organization located in the US with students in the US, Canada, France, England, Russia, Mexico, Australia, and Scotland. We aim to bring authentic Daoist teachings to the western word.

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https://www.partingcloudsdaoisteducation.com/

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Saqib melds mysticism with science, drawing insights from traditions like Buddhism, Sufism, Taoism, Hinduism, Christian Mysticism, Non-Dualism, etc. Before his Awakening, he had a background in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering and a Masters in Business Administration. He later received training in meditation at Dharamsala's Tushita Center and worked at Delhi's Zorba The Buddha. Since then he has hosted many programs across India and Canada. A spiritual mentor for many seekers, Saqib himself remains a student of Mysticism, blending logic, emotional intelligence, and ethereal wisdom to elevate consciousness.

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https://insighttimer.com/saqibrizvi

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Emma Rowena is a musician, performer, intuitive reader, healer, meditation guide, and emerging social entrepreneur, helping people find peace, purpose, and healing in their lives.

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www.emmarowena.no

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Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Today I want to introduce you to a very good friend of mine, Pierre Motor. He is the go-to guy for all things productivity. As a coach he instructs his students in a host of ways how to become their ultimate focused self. And while it isn’t his main secret weapon, meditation has aided him in his journey and those of his clients for many years.

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Click here for Pierre's Distraction Shield: A Guide to Minimize Distractions and Maximize Focus.

It’s FREE!

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Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Welcome to Zen Commuter and day two of Tricycle Week! Today, we dive into an important question: Is meditation truly beneficial for young students? Across the country, schools have introduced mindfulness programs with the hope of improving focus, reducing stress, and fostering emotional well-being. But do these programs actually deliver on their promise? We’ll explore key research, including insights from Emma Varvaloucas’ article, Classroom Mindfulness Put to the Test, which examines the largest study to date on mindfulness in schools. Are these programs helping, or do they come with unintended consequences? Let’s uncover the science behind meditation in the classroom.

✅ Origins and Expansion of Mindfulness Practices: The article traces the development of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) from its inception by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979 to its widespread application in adult mental health.
✅ Introduction of Mindfulness in Educational Settings: It discusses the rationale behind implementing mindfulness programs in schools, aiming to address rising mental health issues among adolescents by teaching them mindfulness techniques.
✅ Evaluation of the MYRIAD Study's Findings: The article analyzes the outcomes of the MYRIAD trial, the largest study on adolescent mindfulness programs, which revealed unexpected results, including potential ineffectiveness and possible adverse effects for some students. ​

Tricycle: The Buddhist Review

Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)

Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

• Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter

• Email: thom@zencommuter.com

• Instagram: @thom_walters

• Twitter: @thom_walters

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/zencommuter

• Donate: Support the Podcast!

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Most of the times when I speak to my Mom, I keep the lessons to myself. Mainly, because the value they hold is more personal than communal. But today, I had a talk with my Mom that may be beneficial for all people to hear. Come Listen. It’s a short one. :0)

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Many people meditate to relax and minimize stress. And of course, that is a great reason. As we all know, there are several benefits to meditating. Today I talk about the less common ones. Come listen.

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Visit Heroic Productivity and sign up for an amazing resource for killing distractions

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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We have talked about the meditation practice know as Tonglen, but today’s article talks about it in a deeper way, helping us better understand what it is, but also why it is beneficial for the “giver and receiver”. Come listen.

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Tricycle Magazine

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Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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Joy is a wonderfully light energy that lifts our spirits, helps us appreciate the beauty of the world around us. Hopefully, you know that experiencing and observing the joy of others brings about the same result; a lightness of being. If you were unsure, today’s post by Scott Tusa will make it wonderfully clear.

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Tricycle Magazine

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Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page.

Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.
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