
Insight Hour with Joseph Goldstein
Joseph Goldstein has been a leading light for the practice of Insight and Loving Kindness meditation since his days in India and Burma where he studied with eminent masters of the tradition. In his podcast, The Insight Hour, Joseph delivers these essential mindfulness teachings in a practical and down to earth way that illuminates the practice through his own personal experience and wonderful story telling.
Latest episodes

37 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 60min
Ep. 238 – Understanding Equanimity, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 35
Explore the vital quality of equanimity as a cornerstone of mindfulness and stability. Joseph Goldstein discusses its role in achieving balance amid life’s ups and downs, advocating for an internal sense of well-being. He highlights the emotional dynamics of gain and loss, encouraging impartiality towards praise and blame. Through compelling anecdotes and teachings, the discussion illustrates how nurturing equanimity fosters compassion and clarity. Practical advice is shared on integrating these insights into daily life, emphasizing the transformative power of non-attachment.

Mar 6, 2025 • 58min
Ep. 237 – Continuity of Mindfulness, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 34
Joseph Goldstein delves into the vital role of continuous mindfulness in enhancing concentration and overall mental steadiness. He discusses the Buddha's teachings on breath awareness and the importance of non-judgment in practice. The connection between morality and meditation techniques is emphasized, particularly regarding mindfulness of breathing. Listeners learn how to transition from simple breath awareness to a deeper understanding of the mind's nature, fostering wisdom and tranquility during meditation.

15 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 58min
Ep. 236 – An Intro to Samadhi, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 33
Dive into the powerful realm of Samadhi, the Buddhist art of concentration. Discover why a well-trained mind is essential for overcoming suffering and gaining insights. Explore the intriguing relationship between deep focus and heightened mindfulness, illuminating the paths to liberation. Hear personal reflections on the transition between meditation techniques and the vital role of loving-kindness in cultivating stability. Experience how deep concentration can transform your practice and lead to ease and profound understanding.

7 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 58min
Ep. 235 – Reaching Tranquility, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 32
Discover the vital role of tranquility in achieving liberation and happiness. Dive into the teachings of the Satipatthana Sutta and explore a clear path towards enlightenment. Learn about the seven factors that enhance insight and combat suffering. Embrace the concept of impermanence and the illusion of self, while fostering genuine self-awareness. Tranquility emerges as a transformative element, cultivating not just calmness but also sincere understanding. Join in on a journey that bridges ancient wisdom with modern spiritual practices.

29 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 48min
Ep. 234 – Happiness and the Mirror Within, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 31
Delve into the essence of happiness with insightful discussions on the Satipatthana Sutta. Explore the difference between mundane joy and liberating merit. Reflect on the joy of generosity and the connection to ethical conduct. Experience the transformative power of non-harming and personal growth. Discover fleeting moments of tranquility and the deeper meanings of Nibbana. Uncover the Buddha’s teachings on happiness, emphasizing relationships and contentment for a fulfilling life.

Jan 23, 2025 • 57min
Ep. 233 – Passion For Practice, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 30
Exploring the joyous factor of awakening, the discussion centers on the Buddhist concept of rapture, or 'piti'. It highlights how this vibrant energy can fuel mindfulness practice and awaken deeper insights. Personal anecdotes and reflections enrich the conversation about maintaining awareness of impermanence. Listeners learn about recognizing and cultivating rapture to enhance their practice, while navigating daily challenges. The session emphasizes the balance of joy and mindfulness, inviting a deeper connection with the teachings of the Buddha.

20 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 55min
Ep. 232 – Applying Our Effort Skillfully, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 29
Explore the essential role of right effort in achieving happiness and success. Delve into the Pali term 'virya,' highlighting how skillful energy can empower us through spiritual challenges. The journey of courageous determination shows that ordinary people can embody extraordinary resolve. Discover how balancing mental focus enhances meditation practices. Reflect on the significance of mindful living and using our time wisely, as well as the potential for happiness in every experience.

Jan 9, 2025 • 59min
Ep. 231 – Inner Investigation, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 28
Uncover the secrets to liberation through unremitting mindfulness and self-inquiry. Explore the distinction between fleeting pleasures and lasting happiness as outlined in Buddhist teachings. Learn how understanding emotions can untangle the Gordian knot of our feelings, fostering acceptance. Delve into self-awareness and the concept of non-self to transform negative traits into positive qualities. Discover the investigative quality of mind essential for awakening from ignorance, bridging Theravada and Zen insights into the nature of consciousness.

7 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 57min
Ep. 230 – The Factors of Awakening, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 27
Dive into the exploration of the seven factors of awakening and their transformative power! Discover how mindfulness serves as an essential anti-hindrance against mental delusions. The concepts of hiri and otapa highlight the importance of moral discernment. Personal anecdotes illuminate the essence of bare attention and clear comprehension. Learn how these practices enhance awareness and guide ethical conduct, paving the way for liberation from suffering. Engage with wisdom that invites reflection and practical applications for a balanced life.

30 snips
Dec 27, 2024 • 55min
Ep. 229 – Freedom From Our Mental Shackles, Satipatthana Sutta Series Pt. 26
Explore the mind's illusion through the lens of the Satipatthana Sutta. Discover how our perceptions can lead to suffering, as we often mistake impermanence for permanence. Learn about mindful eating and its ties to true happiness versus societal misbeliefs. Joseph Goldstein also highlights the nature of fear and self-identification, stressing the necessary recognition of impermanence for liberation. Delve into the contrast between worldly and noble supernormal powers, and the transformative potential of tailored mindfulness practices.