In this episode, Kadam Adam is with Buddhist nun Gen Demo for a thought-provoking discussion on the true nature of compassion. Together, they explore how genuine compassion isn’t about feeling sorry for ourselves or others, but rather a mindset that protects and uplifts us, helping us to navigate life with clarity and kindness. They look at the idea that compassion, when understood correctly, empowers rather than burdens us, bringing emotional resilience and peace. Throughout the conversation, Gen Demo shares insightful stories from everyday life that beautifully illustrate how compassion can be a transformative force in our relationships and daily happiness. Book reference The New Eight steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso https://kadampa.org/book/eight-steps-to-happiness00:00 Introduction & Misconceptions of CompassionExploring common misunderstandings about compassion leading to overwhelm or depression.02:13 Compassion as Transformative PowerBuddhist perspective on compassion: A wish for freedom from suffering.02:48 A Mother’s Compassionate CareStory of a mother caring for her quadriplegic son.06:00 Compassion in Healthcare: The ICU NurseNurse’s response to a stressed visitor.10:26 ER Story: Collective Compassion in CrisisChild’s tragic arrival in the ER and its impact on staff and patients.14:49 Healing Power of CompassionReflection on how compassion reduces physical and emotional pain.18:53 Compassion in Daily LifeStory of a Nun's realization about suffering’s impermanence.19:28 Small Acts, Big ImpactHow compassionate thinking transforms interactions.Gen Demo is the Resident Teacher in International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon https://meditationinnorthernarizona.org/The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/WANT MORE?Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search...Listen to teaching clips: / nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEy... Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.Follow the Modern Buddhism PodcastFacebook: / modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: / modernbuddhismpodcast TIkTok: / modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhb... Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/5... #modernbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #compassion #compassionfatigue #compassionmeditation #optimism #fearless #overcomingsuffering #suffering #InnerStrength #PositiveMindset

In this episode, we hear the inspiring journey of Gen Lingpur, a Buddhist nun whose life took an unexpected turn after a routine medical check-up. For years, she thrived in her career and enjoyed a fulfilling life. But everything changed when she was diagnosed with cancer. Faced with fear and uncertainty, she began searching for deeper answers to make sense of her situation.It was during this time of searching that Gen Lingpur discovered Kadampa Buddhism. The teachings offered the wisdom she had been looking for—giving her a profound understanding of suffering, impermanence, and the true nature of life. As she began to embrace these teachings, she found a peace that helped her face her diagnosis with newfound peace and clarity.Over time, her journey of healing became more than just about surviving illness—it led her to find a deeper meaning, happiness and joy in life.00:00 - Introduction & Setting the ContextWelcome and introduction to Gen Lingpur's story of hope and inspiration through adversity.00:10 - Career Success & Leukemia DiagnosisGen Lingpur reflects on her career peak and the life-changing diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia in 1993.02:18 - Emotional Impact & Existential QuestionsContemplating mortality, materialism, and the search for life’s meaning after the diagnosis.03:59 - Discovering Buddhism & "Joyful Path of Good Fortune"The pivotal moment of finding Buddhist teachings and the book that transformed her perspective.06:54 - Journey with Buddhism & Helping OthersTransition to altruistic living, teaching at a Buddhist center, and supporting those facing death.08:08 - Confronting Mortality & Sustaining Death AwarenessHow death awareness reshaped priorities and brought lasting inner peace.11:17 - Compassion & Altruistic LivingInsights on universal suffering, cherishing others, and the rewards of selfless action.13:35 - Key Life Lessons & Internal TransformationThe importance of cultivating inner happiness and reducing negative mental habits.16:01 - Advice for Hopelessness & Facing DeathGen Ling-po’s guidance for finding meaning and transforming fear into purposeful living.23:55 - Closing Remarks & GratitudeFinal reflections and appreciation for the conversation’s impact.Book reference: Joyful Path of Good Fortune https://kadampa.org/book/joyful-path-of-good-fortuneThe participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/Gen Lingpur teaches at Kadampa Meditation Center Arizona https://www.meditationintucson.org/WANT MORE?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2YFind a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=enListen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism PodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #myjourney #SelfGrowth #meaningoflife #InnerPeace #MentalHealth #Wellness #Happiness #Love #PowerOfMeditation #BetterConnections #meditation #ClarityAndFocus #MeditationForHappiness #StressFreeLife #transformyourmindset #newkadampatradition #kadampabuddhismSubscribe to get notifications of new videos.

Entrepreneur, Author, and Meditation Practitioner Len Foley shares invaluable insights into how to succeed in work and relationships using meditation as a powerful tool.

An Abridged version of this conversation is available in video format on Youtube 0:00 - Introduction Host welcomes Len and introduces the topic of success, meditation, and balancing a busy life. 0:13 - Len's Background Len shares his journey as a business owner, author, and meditation/Buddhism teacher. 0:57 - The Search for Meaning Len reflects on his early struggles, the pursuit of financial success, and the realization that money alone couldn’t fill a deeper void. 2:29 - Failed Ventures & Awakening The story of Len’s hot air balloon business failure and his pivotal introduction to Buddhism and meditation. 3:47 - Modern Buddhism & Integrating Practice How Len learned to weave spiritual practice into daily life without abandoning ambition. 6:03 - Balancing Business and Spirituality Len discusses writing, shifting priorities, and finding purpose through children’s books and family. 7:21 - COVID, Coffee Shops, and Resilience A candid story about running a coffee shop during the pandemic, learning patience, and cherishing community. 10:57 - Leading with Service Lessons from Len’s teacher on humility, teamwork, and finding meaning in mundane tasks. 14:38 - Meditation as a Lifeline The importance of daily meditation, mental discipline, and detaching from endless problems. 18:12 - Redefining Success & Happiness Len’s advice to his younger self: prioritize helping others, and how true fulfillment comes from service. 19:14 - Closing Remarks Host thanks Len for sharing insights, emphasizing takeaways for viewers. The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #myjourney #SelfGrowth #Success #InnerPeace #MentalHealth #Wellness #PositiveVibes #Happiness #LoveAndPeace #MeditationForSuccess #MindfulRelationships #WorkLifeBalance #PowerOfMeditation #BetterConnections #SuccessThroughMeditation #ClarityAndFocus #MeditationForHappiness #StressFreeLife #transformyourmindset Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.

In this episode, host Agnes sits down with Kelsang Sama, a Buddhist nun, to delve into the deeper concepts of freedom and personal transformation. Together, they explore the difference between cutting ties with the external world and cultivating true inner freedom. While society often emphasizes the importance of shedding external constraints—such as material possessions, relationships, or status—Kelsang Sama emphasizes that genuine freedom lies in mastering one’s inner world and breaking free from self-imposed mental limitations. Her story is one of self-discovery, where the external world’s expectations were set aside in favor of exploring deeper, more authentic truths about herself and the nature of existence. Throughout the episode, Agnes and Kelsang Sama discuss the transformative power of meditation, mindfulness, and the Buddhist teachings that helped her release attachment to external validation and find a more lasting sense of peace. This conversation offers listeners an inspiring perspective on how freedom isn't about escaping the world, but rather about understanding and transforming the mind. 00:00:00 Welcome & Introduction 00:00:22 External vs. Internal Freedom 00:02:38 Freedom from Expectations 00:03:47 The Illusion of External Freedom 00:05:20 Searching for Life’s Meaning 00:06:04 The Emptiness of Material Pursuits 00:07:56 Dependency and Fragile Freedom 00:11:59 Meditation and Mental Freedom 00:12:34 Conflict and Inner Freedom 00:14:20 Imagination as a Tool for Change 00:19:06 Overcoming Fear of Change 00:20:42 Embracing Impermanence 00:25:56 Holding Space for Global Suffering 00:30:02 The Global Family and Responsibility 00:45:10 Beyond Physical Identity 00:50:07 Living Without Regrets 00:53:00 Conclusion and Farewell Book references How to Transform Your Life ~ https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl Kelsang Sama is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Manchester in the UK. https://kmcmanchester.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y

Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en

Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu

https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #myjourney #InspiringStories #meaningoflife #motivation #BuddhistPodcast #MeditationForChange #personalgrowth #mindfulnesspodcast

In this episode, we sit down with Gen Thekchen, a Buddhist monk who was invited to teach meditation to prisoners in Canada. He shares his remarkable journey of teaching controlling the mind behind bars, revealing how the inmates’ surprising resilience and unwavering determination to master their minds in such a tough environment inspired him. Tune in as Gen Thekchen reflects on the profound lessons he learned from the very people society often overlooks. Book references How to Transform Your Life ~ https://kadampa.org/books/free-ebook-download-howtotyl The New Eight Steps to Happiness ~ https://tharpa.com/uk/the-new-eight-steps-to-happiness Gen Thekchen is the Resident Teacher at Kadampa Meditation Center Ottawa https://meditateinottawa.org/ The participants of these podcasts are practicing meditation according to the New Kadampa Tradition, which has over a thousand meditation centers worldwide. See more https://kadampa.org/ WANT MORE? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_U5J8JlJq2Y Find a meditation center near you https://kadampa.org/nkt-center-search/?lang=en Listen to teaching clips: youtube.com/nktikbu https://open.spotify.com/show/5QPCFEyZz74nOHZbQr1B4z Follow the Modern Buddhism Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modernbuddhismpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernbuddhismpodcast/ TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernbuddhismpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7lgQNhbjMGoHOxBnjkfmK4 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/519b6d69-b6ed-46b2-ab56-ebaf59adf96e/the-modern-buddhism-podcast #modermbuddhismpodcast #buddhism #podcast #BuddhismBehindBars #MeditationInPrison #BuddhistMonkJourney #InnerPeaceInToughTimes #InspiringStories #ResilienceAndMeditation #LessonsFromInmates #BuddhistPodcast #MeditationForChange #OvercomingChallenges #mindfulnesspodcast Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.

Happy New Year Everyone! While we continue our break from our usual conversation episodes, please enjoy Kadam Adam briefly explaining and then guiding a meditation on how our life is precious, rare and meaningful. This beautiful contemplation energizes us and inspires us to seize the very essence of each day - an excellent way to start the new year. Full epsiodes resume next week.