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
Apr 9, 2024 • 31min
Move forward without moving on, by Kelly Rizzo
Kelly Rizzo shares her journey of coping with the sudden loss of her husband and the challenge of moving forward while honoring memories. Reflecting on her father's past, she navigates through grief, guilt, and acceptance. The story emphasizes embracing the past while being open to new experiences and finding a balance between honoring memories and moving forward.
Apr 1, 2024 • 16min
Staying insightful, playful, and alert, by Rohan Gunatillake
Guest Rohan Gunatillake designs a unique meditation to foster insight and playfulness, embracing the sense of play on April Fool’s Day. He explores the concept of the wise fool, breaking societal norms for personal growth. The podcast delves into the origins of April Fool's Day and the importance of seeing through mental illusions for a more light-hearted approach to life.
8 snips
Mar 26, 2024 • 28min
To do hard things, be adaptable, by Alex Honnold
Renowned rock climber Alex Honnold shares the importance of adapting to challenging environments. The podcast explores his journey through extreme climbing, embracing adaptability in parenthood and life, and balancing drive with flexibility.
Mar 19, 2024 • 13min
Finding inspiration from strong women, by Rohan Gunatillake
Reflecting on the impact of strong women in his life, Rohan shares how a chance encounter with a meditation mentor shaped his mindfulness journey. The story emphasizes the wisdom and inspiration gained from female figures, encouraging listeners to celebrate and embody their qualities.
Mar 12, 2024 • 34min
How I connect to my unique place in history, by Zuri Adele
Actress Zuri Adele shares her journey of connecting with her heritage and community at Spelman College, embracing unique history and identity. She reflects on moments of isolation, finding belonging through cultural immersion and protest filming, and the power of affirmations for self-discovery.
Mar 5, 2024 • 35min
Stay open to find belonging, by Tami Simon
Tami Simon shares her journey of feeling like an alien and finding belonging. She explores identity, existential reflections, nature's embrace, vulnerability, and open-mindedness. The podcast combines storytelling with mindfulness prompts and immersive music.
Feb 29, 2024 • 11min
Rethinking our relationship with time, by Rohan Gunatillake
Explore the concept of time and change through meditation, leap years, hidden time pockets, and the significance of marking the present moment. Reflect on personal traditions and the nature of time in this introspective journey.
Feb 27, 2024 • 37min
Redefine your generational patterns, by Marcia Gay Harden
A Tony and Oscar-winning actress reflects on breaking free from inherited generational patterns learned from parents. She discusses navigating family dynamics, attending pottery workshops for self-discovery, and the importance of unlearning negative behaviors to embrace mindfulness and gratitude.
20 snips
Feb 20, 2024 • 34min
My side hustle to a better life, by Rachel Cargle
Rachel Cargle shares her journey from humble beginnings to successful entrepreneur. She talks about seeking opportunities, challenges faced, and her non-profit offering therapy for Black women. The episode explores self-discovery, autonomy, and societal change, along with a guided meditation on compassion and interconnectedness. Learn how Rachel found fulfillment by turning her gifts outward.
Feb 13, 2024 • 40min
Recognize the healing powers of your gifts, by Ruth E. Carter
Ruth E. Carter, an Academy Award-winning costume designer, shares how she uses her unique gifts as an artist to create opportunities for healing. She reflects on mourning the loss of Chadwick Boseman and emphasizes the healing power of sharing one's gifts and talents. Carter explores the importance of family history, tracing lineage, and the power of storytelling to connect to heritage and bring healing to one's own story.
