Guru Viking Podcast

Delson Armstrong, a spiritual teacher and author of ‘A Mind Without Craving’, boldly renounces his past claims of spiritual attainment. He shares profound insights on the role of emotions in awakening and the necessity of confronting trauma. Delson critiques traditional Buddhist teachings and redefines the concept of enlightenment, advocating for personal experience over hierarchical structures. He reflects on the pressures from spiritual communities, the dangers of blind devotion, and explores innovative teaching methods as he plans to expand his practice.

Miles Neale, a therapist and author, teams up with Matthew Freidell, a visionary documentary filmmaker, to dive into the making of "The Missing Peace." They explore the enchanting Borobudur monument's quest to broadcast peace to the world. Their journey highlights profound life lessons, the importance of intuition, and the magic of synchronicity. The duo shares their transformative experiences in the Amazon, the challenges of capturing spiritual narratives, and the necessity of genuine artistic expression in an increasingly commercialized world.

Ishtar recounts a childhood filled with ghost encounters and precognitive dreams. A life-altering car crash at 13 ignited his spiritual quest. He delves into years of meditation, dark nights of the soul, and the search for transcendence amidst grief. Ishtar shares insights on identity, meaningful palm readings, and the transformative power of spiritual practices. His journey intertwines with past lives, out-of-body experiences, and the challenges of finding bliss amidst suffering, ultimately advocating for a joyful pursuit of life.

William Rory Dickson, an associate professor at the University of Winnipeg and author of "Dissolving into Being: The Wisdom of Sufi Philosophy," discusses the profound impact of Sufi mystic Ibn ‘Arabi. He unravels the historical tensions between mysticism and clerical authority, and the politically charged atmosphere surrounding Sufis. The conversation journeys through Sufi meditation techniques and the interaction of Sufism with American culture, touching on the failings of utopian religious models and the resurgence of traditional practices.

In this engaging discussion, Tulku Sherab Dorje, a Buddhist teacher and author with a rich legal background, shares insights from his unusual upbringing and years of spiritual retreat. He delves into the interplay between cynicism and devotion, emphasizing the role of humor in Buddhist teachings. Tulku also reflects on the art of translation and the complexities of the tulku system, while exploring how past lives influence present experiences. His unique perspective highlights the balance between academic rigor and spiritual practice, making for a fascinating conversation.

Khandro Kunzang Dechen Chodron, a teacher of Tibetan Buddhism and executive director at Saraswati Bhawan Publications, shares her transformative journey under the guidance of ngakpa Kunzang Dorje Rinpoche. She delves into the profound trust in the guru-disciple relationship, revealing her rigorous training and insights into tummo practice. Khandro recounts her guru’s psychic abilities and the intense loyalty required from students. The discussion also highlights integrity, the challenges of spiritual authority, and the intricate dynamics of mentor-student relationships.

In this engaging dialogue, Henry Shukman, a British poet and Zen teacher, and John Brehm, an American poet, explore how poetry intersects with spirituality. They share their journeys into poetry, discussing the transformative power of words and the sacred moments they evoke. The conversation dives into how poetry can illuminate the ordinary, offer solace during difficult times, and act as a bridge to higher inspiration. They also perform several of their poems, revealing the emotional depth that nature, grief, and connection to the sacred bring to their work.

Dr. Ben Joffe, an anthropologist and expert in Tibetan Buddhism, dives into the fascinating world of spirit conjuration. He explores its rich history, from ancient times to modern practices, revealing diverse magical traditions. Joffe compares cultural perspectives on spirits, including parallels between Buddhism and Jewish mysticism. He shares his personal encounters with the supernatural, emphasizing the importance of ethical invocation practices. With a witty touch, he also discusses how horror films reflect these esoteric themes and the nuances of grimoires in contemporary spirituality.

Dr. William Rory Dickson, an associate professor of Islamic Religion and Culture at The University of Winnipeg, shares his fascinating spiritual journey from a Christian upbringing to exploring Tibetan Buddhism and ultimately embracing Sufism. He discusses the role of psychedelics in his awakening and debunks common misconceptions about Sufism and Islam. Additionally, he highlights the importance of language in understanding spirituality and reflects on the rich philosophical roots of Sufism, drawing from influences like Ancient Egyptian and Neo-Platonic thought.

Brad Warner is a Zen teacher and best-selling author known for his candid insights on Zen practice. Shozan Jack Haubner, an ex-Zen monk and prize-winning author, adds layers with his humorous memoir. They share their journeys through writing, tackling the nuances of portraying real-life experiences and the complexities of American Zen. Topics include the commercialization of meditation and the balance of authority in teaching. Their conversation delves into online criticism, social justice, and maintaining authenticity in a polarized world.