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
Jun 25, 2024 • 35min
We become the places we love, by David Whyte
David Whyte, a renowned poet and author, shares his journey of self-discovery amid the windswept landscapes of Wales. He candidly discusses battling self-doubt and the transformative power of place, revealing how a hawk in the Galapagos sparked profound insights about identity. Whyte reflects on deep connections formed amidst loss, highlighting friendships that endure despite life's challenges. He intertwines nature and poetry, illustrating how memories and emotions are tied to the landscapes we cherish.
Jun 18, 2024 • 29min
Nate Berkus: Designing your space in the world
Nate Berkus, an acclaimed interior designer and author known for his work with Oprah Winfrey, reflects on his journey of self-discovery through designing his childhood bedroom. He shares how transforming an unfinished space helped him assert his identity while navigating family dynamics. The conversation explores the importance of mindful design in fostering personal growth, the freedom of creative expression in parenting, and concludes with a guided meditation that highlights the connection between outer space and inner awareness.
Jun 11, 2024 • 22min
How to find – and feed – your passion, by Danny Meyer
Restaurateur Danny Meyer shares how a simple plate of pasta in Europe ignited his passion for food and creativity. He reflects on the joys of communal dining and the importance of paying attention to everyday experiences. The podcast also explores mindfulness techniques and encourages listeners to share their reflections.
Jun 4, 2024 • 30min
What's most vital is right in front of me, by Stephen Wilkes
Photographer Stephen Wilkes shares his unique approach to capturing light and perspective. He reflects on caring for his resilient mother, turning darkness into art. The podcast delves into the transformative impact of photography and finding calm in chaos.
May 28, 2024 • 28min
Stories my father told me, by Lindsey Stirling
Lindsey Stirling, a Memory violinist, shares heartwarming stories about her dad's impactful storytelling and enduring legacy. The episode explores the power of family bonds, self-awareness, and the influence of personal narratives in personal growth. Through meditation, listeners are guided to reflect on their own stories and embrace gratitude for the lessons learned.
May 21, 2024 • 37min
We're doing this thing together, by Kristin Windbigler
Kristin Windbigler shares her journey from rural California to San Francisco, emphasizing the value of living abundantly off the land. She explores the importance of community, self-sufficiency, and working together to solve urgent problems. The podcast reflects on the universal truth that differences fade away when people collaborate. Kristen's story inspires listeners to embrace openness beyond constraints and reflect on their labels and identities.
May 14, 2024 • 32min
Duff Goldman: Speaking without words
Pastry chef Duff Goldman discusses how his creations speak louder than words, exploring family dynamics, emotive cooking, and the power of art in non-verbal communication. The episode includes a guided meditation on interpreting non-verbal cues and wraps up with a call for personal reflections.
May 7, 2024 • 41min
My battle as a beginner opens up a world of wonder, by Nataly Dawn
Nataly Dawn, a singer-songwriter and one half of the band Pomplamoose, recounts her journey of adapting to life in a small French town after moving from the U.S. She candidly shares her struggles with language and the insecurities of being a beginner. As she learns French, Nataly discovers joy and connection through creativity and shared experiences with her classmates. Embracing a beginner's mindset transforms her challenges into opportunities for growth, underscoring the beauty in exploration and mindfulness.
Apr 30, 2024 • 33min
Let them see you cry, by Reshma Saujani
Activist and founder of Girls Who Code, Reshma Saujani, shares her journey of struggling to achieve her goal of motherhood, embracing vulnerability, and allowing herself to feel emotions. She discusses breaking the facade of always being in control, the emotional rollercoaster of unexpected pregnancy and loss, and the transformative power of opening up about emotional pain.
Apr 23, 2024 • 29min
Aasif Mandvi: Getting out of my own head
Actor, writer, and comedian Aasif Mandvi shares his journey of coping with tinnitus and finding new possibilities in life. He reflects on vulnerability, embracing positivity, and falling in love. The podcast explores the emotional challenges and the importance of gratitude and mindfulness in navigating personal struggles.
