Meditative Story
WaitWhat
Meditative Story combines extraordinary human stories with meditation prompts embedded into the storylines — all surrounded by breathtaking music. Think of it as an alternative way into a mindfulness practice, through vivid stories and cinematic music and production values. Meditative Story is an original series produced by WaitWhat and supported by our members. Our community tells us that they listen to the same episodes over and over again, and according to data provided by Apple Podcasts, Meditative Story may have the highest engagement of any podcast in the world. And that makes us proud!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 12, 2024 • 36min
A more spacious response to life, by Judith Grisel
Judith Grisel, an esteemed behavioral neuroscientist and author of the bestseller 'Never Enough,' shares her profound journey from addiction to recovery. She reveals how a simple empty bowl became a pivotal symbol, allowing her to confront feelings of loneliness and emptiness that haunted her since childhood. The discussion dives into the transformative power of nature, the complexities of familial relationships, and the importance of embracing silence to cultivate a deeper emotional understanding. Judy's insights offer a spacious response to life’s challenges.
Nov 5, 2024 • 39min
Finding unity, through our difference, by Pastor Otis Moss
Otis Moss III, Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church in Chicago, blends his rich heritage of black theology and social advocacy with personal insights shaped by his late sister, Daphne. He explores how jazz serves as a powerful metaphor for cultural diversity and unity, intertwining storytelling with themes of resilience in the face of systemic racism. Moss reflects on the weight of familial love amidst mental health struggles and celebrates the artistry of language and music as tools for social justice and transformation.
Oct 29, 2024 • 16min
Day of the Dead meditation: a celebration of life
Explore the rich cultural significance of Día de Muertos, a Mexican holiday that celebrates life and honors those we've lost. The discussion invites listeners to embrace both grief and joy, highlighting the importance of memory in our lives. Through guided meditation, it encourages deep reflection on mortality and invites personal stories of remembrance. The blend of storytelling, music, and mindfulness creates a powerful space for understanding the relationship between life and death.
Oct 22, 2024 • 27min
Surrendering my old identity — and finding myself, by Catherine Reitman
Catherine Reitman, actor and creator of the sitcom "Working Moms," shares her struggle to balance motherhood with her career. She opens up about navigating her identity amid typecasting and rejection, revealing the emotional complexities of being a new mom. Catherine discusses how writing became a healing tool, helping her confront inner critics and embrace vulnerability. Her journey to self-discovery highlights the transformative power of sharing personal experiences, reminding us that it’s okay to feel lost while finding our way.
Oct 15, 2024 • 32min
Adapting to life's unexpected nature, by Forrest Galante
Forrest Galante, a wildlife biologist and survivalist known for his show "Extinct or Alive," shares his extraordinary journey from the wilderness of Zimbabwe to urban life in Oakland. He reflects on childhood memories of majestic wildlife and the importance of adaptability in unfamiliar environments. Galante describes the thrill of discovering rare species and emphasizes how these encounters foster a deeper connection to nature. He concludes with a mindfulness practice, encouraging us all to engage with the natural world around us.
Oct 8, 2024 • 30min
Navigating life in my own skin, by Zenju Earthlyn Manuel
Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, an author, poet, and ordained Zen Buddhist priest, shares a poignant story of her 1957 road trip from LA to Louisiana. She reflects on childhood dreams and family dynamics, illustrating the complexities of identity and belonging. Zenju explores the contrasting emotions of anticipation and disappointment during a Texan reunion and delves into her cultural roots in Opelousa. The journey emphasizes the significance of mindfulness, heat, and silence as meditative pathways, inviting listeners to appreciate their own life's influences.
Oct 1, 2024 • 27min
Hitting the open road to find my way home, by Peter Sagal
After a tough divorce, Peter Sagal sets off on a solo motorcycle trip across the Midwest. He discovers the profound connection between solitude and mindfulness while navigating quiet roads, reflecting deeply on life. As he rides through stunning landscapes, he contemplates personal struggles and the power of storytelling. The journey transforms him, revealing the beauty in silence and the importance of embracing presence. Listeners are inspired to reflect on their own lives and the impact of sharing personal stories.
Sep 24, 2024 • 28min
Finding my own reflection, by Jane McGonigal
Jane McGonigal, a renowned game designer, shares her unique perspective on the life of identical twins. She dives into the emotional intricacies of seeking individuality while sharing DNA. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how experiences shape identity, revealing the influence of parenthood on self-perception. McGonigal prompts listeners to embrace their uniqueness rather than compare themselves to others. The conversation blends insights with a guided meditation, encouraging a deeper connection between the body and mind.
Sep 18, 2024 • 2min
Introducing: Pioneers of AI
Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn and venture capitalist, joins Dr. Joy Boulamwini, a leading computer scientist and founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, to dive into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. They discuss the rapid advancements in AI technologies and how they are reshaping our lives. The conversation covers the ethical implications of AI's integration into society, emphasizing the need for responsible development. Tune in for insights from two pioneers who are navigating this exciting yet complex frontier.
Sep 17, 2024 • 20min
The perfect photograph I never took, by John Moore
John Moore, a legendary photojournalist known for capturing powerful human experiences, shares his pursuit of the perfect photograph in the Congo Rainforest. He recounts emotional moments amidst conflict and beauty, revealing the challenge of photographing endangered mountain gorillas in a war-torn landscape. The discussion delves into the significance of memories over visual documentation, and the importance of letting go of control. Listeners are invited to embrace chaos and engage with their thoughts, all while exploring mindfulness amidst life's unpredictability.
