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

8 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 27min
Best of Awake in the World: We Practice Because We Forget
Dive into a profound exploration of human suffering, as the realities of prisons and healing needs come to light. The conversation emphasizes community support and the importance of non-violence in personal relationships. Discover how yoga can catalyze societal change and the unseen impacts of our consumer choices. Reflect on the interconnectedness of yoga and Buddhism while navigating the emotional journey of writing and human connection. This insightful dialogue encourages us to cultivate compassion and awareness in our everyday lives.

Jan 30, 2025 • 22min
Best of Awake in the World: Home Base: Guided Meditation (20 min.) on Mindfulness of Thinking
In this episode of Best of Awake in the World, Michael leads a 20-minute guided meditation focusing on mindfulness of thinking. This practice invites listeners to gently observe their thoughts without judgment or attachment. Perfect for those looking to enhance their meditation practice or find stillness in the midst of mental clutter, this episode serves as a powerful reminder to return to our “home base” of mindful awareness. Recorded in Vancouver 2016.
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.

Jan 29, 2025 • 59min
Best of Awake in the World: Allowing For Experience: Practicing Non-Separation
In this episode of Best of Awake in the World, Michael lectures on the end of 2nd chapter of the Yoga-Sutra and then gets into a very precise mapping of what happens to the ego when you get into deeper states of calm and how to practice without dissociating. Recorded in Stockholm, September 8, 2016.
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.

Jan 29, 2025 • 51min
Best of Awake in the World: Mindfulness of Mental States
In this Best of Awake in the World, Michael explores how mind states are not inherently fixed; you can hold mind states lightly; moods are phenomena, not who you are, and; you can sculpt your attitude. This session is part of the Meditation Facilitation Program recorded in Vancouver, 2016.
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.

Jan 24, 2025 • 43min
Best of Awake in the World: Not Identifying with Your Moods
In this Best of episode Michael explores how to become interested in how the mind functions rather than being caught in the content of our stories. Meditation is a physical practice and we use breathing to settle the mind and heart. 40 min. Recorded in Vancouver, 2016.
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.

Jan 16, 2025 • 55min
Best of Awake in the World: Labeling And Noting Thoughts
In this Best of episode Michael explores language and emotions in children and how this gets internalized in adults. How to meditate when we are thinking too much with a very clear talk on mindfulness practices for transforming overthinking and identification with thoughts. Recorded in Vancouver 2016, 55 min.
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.

Dec 20, 2024 • 42min
Best of Awake in the World: When You Have No One, No One Can Hurt You
In this Best of episode Michael discusses the topics of loneliness, the power of focused attention, and the significance of small ideas that can connect and foster the creation of a new culture. Recorded at the Centre of Gravity in Toronto on December 3, 2013.
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.

Dec 18, 2024 • 47min
Best of Awake in the World: Why Can't the Tail Get Through?
In this Best of episode Michael examines how even despite our progress in spiritual practice, there's often a sense that something is lacking. Perhaps nirvana involves facing challenges without resorting to defense mechanisms or succumbing to burnout. Michael also offers a sharp critique of the economic narratives that shape our lives. This talk was recorded on January 14, 2014 during the New Year's Silent Meditation Retreat at the Chapin Mill Retreat Center, Batavia, New York. Photo by Andréa de Keijzer.
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.

Dec 10, 2024 • 54min
Best of Awake in the World: Speaking Up, Resilience, Non-Grasping
A talk by Michael on how even the best meditators have old wounds that need attention. He talks about how we need support for working with old patterns of our psychology that spiritual practices may not reach. Recorded Nov 09, 2010.
Photo by Andréa de Keijzer
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.

Dec 6, 2024 • 51min
Best of Awake in the World: Your Inner Child Never Grows Up!
A talk by Michael on how even the best meditators have old wounds that need attention. He talks about how we need support for working with old patterns of our psychology that spiritual practices may not reach. Recorded Nov 09, 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.


