Mountain Cloud Zen Podcasts

Opening with a reading of Mountain Cloud’s Land Acknowledgment, this talk is framed by a tribute to Joanna Macy through poetry that helped to inspire her deep and abiding support

Scott takes up Case 6 of the Blue Cliff Record, Unmon’s “Every Day is a Good Day.” Recorded on January 15th, 2026 Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud with a donation

Valerie explores the concept of interconnectedness through Indra's net, illustrating the uniqueness of every being. She shares a Zuni snow prayer and reflects on the beauty of the new year. The discourse dives into transformative poetry, turning grief into beauty, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing one’s self-nature in the present moment. Discussions on emptiness and the ancient wisdom of Zen invite listeners to embody awareness now. With a nod to the notion that 'this very body is Buddha,' the talk encourages embracing the journey from the start.

In the wake of the Rohatsu sesshin at Mountain Cloud and our deep dive into Hakuin’s Song of Zazen, Valerie begins this talk with a painting by Hakuin, an image

On the occasion of the last full moon of this calendar year, Valerie turns to case 100 in the Blue Cliff Record or Hekiganroku. Speaking directly to our life and

Maria Habito, an experienced Zen teacher in the Mountain Cloud tradition, explores profound Zen teachings in this discussion. She delves into Jōshū's advice to 'Wash your Bowl,' highlighting how this simple act serves as a gateway to understanding the true self. Maria emphasizes the importance of trust in practice and sees everyday actions as reflections of ultimate reality. Through stories of awakening and simple compassion, she illustrates how engaging fully with life transforms the heart-mind and cultivates openness in each moment.

Explore the balance between the vastness of existence and the chaos of daily life. Delve into the significance of the Metta Sutta and its call for kindness. Discover the intriguing koan about the bell and its connection to ritual actions. Reflect on how sensory awareness can lead to deeper realizations. Carolyn discusses the paradox of oneness and difference, and how embracing our brokenness fosters compassion. Finally, learn about the transformative power of sitting practice in cultivating skillful responses to the world's challenges.

Scott Thornton dives into the thought-provoking theme of 'Nothing Lacking,' connecting it to the art of just-sitting. He contrasts worldly struggles like poverty and greed with the profound truth of inherent sufficiency. Delving into Case 10 from the Mumonkan, he frames Seizei's plea as a deep Dharma challenge. Scott interprets Sozan's response, 'You've Drunk the Wine,' emphasizing our natural fullness. He encourages a practice of compassion that recognizes suffering while resting in our original perfection.

In this enlightening discussion, Natalie Goldberg, a renowned author and dharma practitioner, shares her journey through koan study and meditation. She reflects on how personal suffering deepens compassion, recounts her transformative encounter with the Rhinoceros Fan koan, and challenges listeners to confront contemporary wounds through creative practice. Goldberg also suggests crafting modern koans tied to local sacred sites and questions the role of sitting in peace amidst political tension. Her candid insights on illness and brokenness resonate deeply, merging art with Zen wisdom.

Dive into the thought-provoking discussion about the ecological crisis and the potential for intelligent life on exoplanets. Explore the essence of being human through the lens of the Buddha’s teachings and the significance of the Middle Way. Uncover the concept of 'seeing in the dark' and how it relates to awakening. Valerie introduces the intriguing koan of Unman's Bright Light, emphasizing non-attachment and the beauty of having empty hands. The talk concludes with a reflection on engaging with both light and dark in our practice.