

Awake in the World Podcast
Michael Stone
Awake in the World Podcast is a library of talks on a wide-range of topics, including bringing mindfulness and meditation practice into daily life; personal and community issues regarding mental health; and social change. The podcasts were recorded at live events so you might hear coughing, airplanes, cars, sirens, laughter, and peoples’ questions—all part of the intimate experience. Michael Stone (1974-2017) was a Buddhist teacher, author, and mental health advocate. His legacy is stewarded by Carina Stone. Podcast funded by Patreon (patreon.com/michaelstone).
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 7, 2025 • 51min
Best of Awake in the World: Mindfulness of the Breath & Taking the Backwards Step
Learning how to be present with an un-agitated heart. Meditation teaches us to be wiser with what’s difficult. Embodying our meditative practice by learning how to stop and see clearly. Meditation Facilitation Training, Vancouver, 1hr.

Aug 24, 2025 • 49min
Best of Awake in the World: Learning from the Insentient
Michael offers a talk on the teachings of the insentient, how the snow and silence can hold hidden lessons. Can you give attention to the way the insentient teaches us? Recorded December 29, 2010.

Aug 17, 2025 • 26min
Best of Awake in the World: 20 min Guided Meditation for Unstable Emotions
Take a moment to notice where in your body this emotional state or mood is most present. What physical sensations let you know that you're experiencing this feeling? See if you can observe how the emotion shows up in your body—how it's expressed through sensation and physical experience. Recorded December 2017.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

Aug 11, 2025 • 56min
Asking the Master
In this Best of Awake in the World epside Michael introduces Case 12 of the Mumonkon, "The Master". He ties waking up with social action and the teachings of the Burmese Monks who visited the evening prior. A funny and lively talk with practices you can use in your life. Recorded Oct 5, 2010.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

Aug 3, 2025 • 25min
Best of Awake in the World: Fear, Rebirth, and the 3 Insights
In this Best of episode Michael describes how the Buddha met fear, mapping out how concentration practice unfolds, then offers a mind-opening view of rebirth and reincarnation.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.
Recorded in Wisconsin, March 26, 2017.

11 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 53min
Best of Awake in the World: Lack, Impermanence and Not Self
Explore the three characteristics that shape our existence through mindfulness and meditation. Discover how personal histories influence mental states and the importance of authenticity in navigating life's chaos. Dive into the evolution of suffering and learn that embracing pain can lead to profound healing. Finally, challenge your beliefs about identity as you accept impermanence as a fundamental aspect of the spiritual journey. This engaging discussion blends ancient teachings with practical insights for modern life.

Jul 20, 2025 • 59min
Best of Awake in the World: Blending Traditions: Yoga & Buddhism
A community talk at Tassajara Monastery with Michael Stone & Zen teacher Paul Haller. They each share some of their biography and field Q&A about practice. Paul shares from his 40 years of Zen practice. Recorded at the Tassajara Zen Mountain Monastery, California.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

Jul 6, 2025 • 26min
Best of Awake in the World: 20 min. Guided Meditation: Feeling the Sensations of the Body
Nothing needs to be refused. Let the breath travel the body without picking up speed. The clouds of thought haul across the sky. Let them come and go. Let the breath move the way blood moves: let it find its own rhythm. Recorded 2017.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

Jun 29, 2025 • 47min
Best of Awake in the World: Mindfulness & Social Action: Towards a Secular Spirituality
In this thoughtful and powerful talk, Michael unpacks the transformative act of sharing the untold stories—the ones that challenge the status quo. He weaves together pressing global issues like climate change, economic disparity, and the erosion of human connection, offering 12 actionable steps toward crafting a new narrative of what it means to live with purpose and presence.
Recorded live in Vancouver on January 28, 2015.
The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

6 snips
Jun 22, 2025 • 1h 6min
Best of Awake in the World: Betrayal, Awakening, and Living in a Burning House
Roshi Pat Enkyo O’Hara, a Buddhist teacher deeply engaged with the Lotus Sutra, invites listeners to explore profound insights about the human experience. She discusses the parable of the burning house, illustrating how we often overlook the suffering around us amid distractions. The conversation emphasizes letting go of attachments for true spiritual growth. Roshi also shares how personal journeys from emptiness to purpose can blossom through adversity, highlighting the courage required to embrace life’s uncertainties.