Tricycle Talks

David Guterson, novelist from Washington State and author of Evelyn in Transit, reflects on a lifelong engagement with Buddhism and the real-life Sakya family that inspired his story. He talks about reincarnation and a mother’s wrenching choice, the meeting of Western and Tibetan lives, and the search for freedom from the self. Short, reflective conversations touch on faith, doubt, and cultural crossing.

Francis Weller, a seasoned psychotherapist and author of 'In the Absence of the Ordinary', dives deep into the transformative nature of grief. He discusses the 'long dark' as a collective experience that fosters cultural rebirth through rituals. Weller emphasizes the importance of deep listening and restraint as ways to connect with the world around us. He shares how rituals can invite healing, and highlights grief as a skill to be cultivated within community. Plus, he leads a guided practice to connect with love and support.

Brandon Shimoda, a poet and professor at Colorado College, dives deep into the legacy of Japanese American wartime incarceration. He shares his personal journey of discovering hidden family histories, sparked by a scene from The Karate Kid. The discussion explores how to memorialize ongoing injustices and reflects on the importance of storytelling from survivors. Shimoda also contemplates the connections between past and present oppressions, emphasizing poetry's role in healing and remembrance. He reads an excerpt from his poignant work.

In this engaging conversation, veteran meditation teacher Sharon Salzberg and acclaimed playwright Sarah Ruhl dive into their new children's books. Sharon shares insights on adapting loving-kindness meditation for kids, while Sarah discusses the power of imagination in addressing childhood fears. They reflect on their creative processes, highlighting collaboration with illustrators and engaging with young audiences. Additionally, Sharon leads a guided loving-kindness practice, aiming to foster kindness and connection among families.

Sharon A. Suh, a theology professor and president of Sakyadhita International Association of Buddhist Women, shares her insights on what it means to be a 'bad' Buddhist. She critiques the narrow focus on meditation in Buddhism and stresses the importance of diverse practices like gratitude and art. Discussing her anthology, Emergent Dharma, Suh highlights the significance of community over individualism, the influence of bell hooks on love as an action, and the evolving nature of Buddhist identity through collective experiences.

Ralph Steele, founder of the Life Transition Meditation Center in Santa Fe and former Theravada monk, shares his incredible journey shaped by trauma and resilience. He recalls the impactful lessons from his grandmother, Sister Mary, and how martial arts and meditation helped him confront pain. Steele discusses his unique retreats designed for veterans with PTSD, adapting Buddhist teachings to provide support and healing. His insights on 'sitting in the fire' of suffering offer a profound perspective on facing life's challenges head-on.

Brother Phap Huu, abbot of Plum Village and coauthor of Calm in the Storm, shares insights on returning to ourselves and embracing the present moment. He discusses how to navigate distractions and the importance of cultivating calmness as an ongoing practice. The conversation explores letting go of old narratives, healing the inner child, and finding balance in striving. Brother Phap Huu also emphasizes self-love as acceptance and service, and guides listeners through a breath meditation to anchor them in the now.

Gil Fronsdal, a seasoned Dharma teacher from the Insight Meditation and Spirit Rock communities, introduces the concept of naturalistic Buddhism. He explains how this approach relies on personal experience rather than supernatural beliefs. The discussion dives into the importance of non-clinging, the difference between faith and direct knowing, and the cultivation of qualities through the Eightfold Path. Gil emphasizes the significance of creating supportive conditions for personal growth and the interconnectedness of inner wisdom and care for others.

In this conversation with Joseph Goldstein, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, listeners delve into the concept of non-clinging as a vital thread across Buddhist traditions. Goldstein discusses how non-clinging liberates us from attachment to self and emphasizes the balance between non-duality and ethical considerations. He shares insights on the interplay of dual and non-dual awareness, warns against becoming attached to emptiness, and offers practical exercises to enhance mindfulness. Discover how selflessness can reshape our understanding of self and reality.

Jess Serrante, a climate activist and longtime facilitator of the Work That Reconnects, shares insights into the life and legacy of Joanna Macy. They discuss the transformative power of gratitude, the importance of honoring our grief, and how anger can fuel meaningful action. Jess emphasizes the need to navigate pain as a sacred experience that connects us to love and resilience. The conversation culminates in a guided meditation, encouraging listeners to cultivate gratitude for the Earth and engage with decisive actions toward the Great Turning.