Deconstructing Yourself
Michael W. Taft
Dedicated to liberation in all its forms, Deconstructing Yourself is passionate about fearlessly investigating, attempting, and questioning all things to do with awakening, meditation, mindfulness, brain hacking, consciousness, neurofeedback, and more.Your host Michael W. Taft interviews some of the most interesting thinkers, authors, and teachers around, as well as other offerings. In this hard-hitting, radical, and fun podcast we look at secular post-, non-, un- Buddhism, Vajrayana, nondual Hindu Tantra, philosophy, the neuroscience of the sense of self, neurofeedback and the consciousness hacking movement, aspects of artificial intelligence, entheogens, and much more.If you’re looking for fresh directions, free from dogma and conformism, think of the Deconstructing Yourself podcast as the radical cafe where you can hear from the most interesting luminaries either from the outside edges of dharma, or a fresh take from more traditional teachers. If you’re interested in more, check out the Deconstructing Yourself website at https://deconstructingyourself.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
73 snips
Feb 7, 2026 • 34min
Michael Taft Interviewed by Pranab
Pranab Sachidanandan, founder of Attention Copilot and longtime student/facilitator, conducts an interview exploring meditation practice and Michael Taft’s Stack Model. They cover using mantra and visualization as samadhi tools. Conversations span applying the stack across senses, an inspiring chronic pain case, and building inclusive sangha outside traditional lineages.
63 snips
Jan 29, 2026 • 46min
The Power of the Heart with Stephen Snyder
Stephen Mugen Snyder, a long‑time Buddhist teacher authorized in Theravada and Soto/Rinzai Zen, shares heart‑centered practices. He explores innate goodness, the two “missing” brahmaviharas, heart wisdom versus mind wisdom, group heart and devotional practices, receptivity and surrender, forgiveness as a heart practice, and how devotional supports and nondual view tune the heart.
35 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 51min
Chasing the Serpent’s Tail with Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Anya Foxen
Sravana Borkataky-Varma, a scholar of Hindu tantra, and Anya Foxen, a historian of South Asian yogic traditions, dive into the fascinating history and complexities of Kundalini. They discuss its diverse definitions, from ancient Tantric practices to modern interpretations in yoga. The conversation highlights personal narratives of awakening, the interplay of energy and bodily experiences, and how these phenomena can lead to profound shifts in self-perception. They also explore the roles of teachers, lineages, and the intriguing overlaps with extraordinary states and possession.
102 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 1h 2min
Nonduality and the Ego with Jake Orthwein
Jake Orthwein, a Brooklyn-based filmmaker and dharma student known for 'Unraveling the Dream,' dives deep into the nature of the self. He and host Michael Taft explore the delicate balance between a functional ego and ego identification. They discuss the concepts of no-self and emptiness, revealing how meditation and psychedelics can lead to ego dissolution. Orthwein shares insights on Buddha-nature vs. True Self, and the importance of maintaining a healthy ego when pursuing nondual experiences. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation!
101 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 55min
Talking about Deity Yoga with Peter McEwen
In this engaging discussion, meditation coach Peter McEwen, an ordained Vajrayana yogi since 1993, dives into the transformative power of deity yoga. He explores how this practice aids in navigating human complexities and the importance of balancing devotion with critical inquiry. Peter discusses the challenges of formless panic, the ontological status of deities, and common pitfalls for Western practitioners. Additionally, he highlights the emotional ups and downs in spiritual journeys while emphasizing the need for compassion and real experience over mere intellectualism.
66 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 13min
Talking about Dark Retreat, Part 2 with Andrew Holecek
Andrew Holecek, an interdisciplinary scholar-practitioner in Tibetan Buddhism, discusses the transformative power of dark retreats. He explores the surge of interest in darkness practices as a counter to patriarchy and shares insights from Tibetan Vajrayana traditions. The conversation delves into the relationship between fear and personal growth, emphasizing how confronting fears can lead to profound transformation. Holecek highlights the unique sensory experiences and the importance of integrating insights gained from darkness into daily life.
16 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 39min
A Conversation with David Godman
David Godman, an author and researcher who has immersed himself in the teachings of Ramana Maharshi since 1976, shares fascinating insights in this conversation. He discusses the nuances of Advaita Vedanta and the importance of personal presence in spiritual growth. Godman reveals Lakshmana Swami's extraordinary journey and the deep devotion that fueled enlightenment. Highlighting the significant role of spiritual teachers, he also explores the profound concept of non-creation and the complexities of translating ancient teachings into accessible wisdom.
80 snips
May 11, 2025 • 1h 24min
Talking about Dark Retreat, with Andrew Holecek
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Holecek, an expert in Tibetan Buddhism and nondual wisdom, shares his enlightening insights on Dark Retreat, a profound spiritual practice. He explains how complete sensory deprivation reveals the construction of reality and invites deep self-exploration. Andrew candidly reflects on the transformative journey through darkness, emphasizing the fears confronted and the growth achieved. He also offers practical tips for beginning this practice, highlighting the significance of stillness and acceptance in navigating the depths of consciousness.
32 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 45min
Sanity and Sainthood, with Dr. Tucker Peck
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Tucker Peck, a meditation teacher, clinical psychologist, and bestselling author, explores the profound concepts of sanity and sainthood. He contrasts understanding mental processes with the desire for constant happiness. Peck outlines a practical definition of both sanity and sainthood while introducing his three-stage model of meditation. He also discusses the unique intersection of Dharma and psychology, shedding light on how meditation can address severe psychological issues and promote empathy.
39 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 50min
Awakening, Cessation, and Vulnerability, with Stephen Snyder
Stephen Snyder, a seasoned Sensei with deep expertise in various Buddhist traditions, discusses his extensive meditation journey. He highlights the profound connection between breath awareness and jhana, revealing its transformative effects. Vulnerability emerges as a key theme, showcasing how raw emotions like anger can catalyze personal growth. Snyder also explains protective meditations in Theravadan practice and delves into the unique stages of shikantaza, emphasizing cessation as pivotal for awakening. His insights blend spirituality with practical emotional work.
