https://simplecast.com Life Wisdom Life’s Big Questions with Seasoned Scholars and Seekers New Books Network en Tue, 9 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 Thu, 10 Sep 2026 18:41:34 +0000 https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com Life Wisdom https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/ffef4723-a426-45d7-9c1c-8e2e9b86ffd4/f0bc3673-18de-40dc-b5af-140efc587468/3000x3000/lifewisdom.png?aid=rss_feed https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com episodic Life’s Big Questions with Seasoned Scholars and Seekers New Books Network false https://feeds.simplecast.com/_RSxL7WW New Books Network marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com 846c6006-d3c4-11f0-9961-5be4638c8664 Tina Seelig on Making Your Own Luck and Other Critical Life and Entrepreneurship Skills Stanford educator and renowned creativity expert Tina Seelig joins Richard Lucas on the New Books Network’s Entrepreneurship & Leadership channel to discuss her new book What I Wish I Knew About Luck (coming April 2026).

As the host found himself agreeing with everything Tina said, he asked for examples of people who disagreed with her. First, they discussed the value of respectful disagreement, and the fact that Richard’s father, the late Oxford philosopher JR Lucas routinely took the opportunity to disagree with his son, no matter what point of view was being put forward. Tina shared that her father, aged 99, still thinks that good things just happened to him over the course of his life, whereas she outlines all the actions he took to create that good luck. Tina dismantles the myth that luck is purely random. She distinguishes fortune (things that happen to you) from luck (something you can actively cultivate), and explains why clichés such as “the harder I work, the luckier I get” or “fortune favors the prepared mind” are true but incomplete. What is the “hard work” required to create luck? What exactly is a “prepared mind”?

Key highlights:

  • Why entrepreneurship and creativity are teachable skills that everyone can improve, just like sports, music, art, math, or science.

  • The value of keeping a “failure résumé” and viewing failure as a trampoline rather than a lava pit.

  • Real stories of ethical dilemmas early and late in her career. Full details in the book and podcast.

  • Why showing genuine appreciation (especially thank-you notes) is one of the highest-ROI habits for creating luck. A thank you note she wrote was read out at a funeral 20 years later.

  • How to build trust, have difficult conversations, and surround yourself with the right “crew”

  • The foundational role of self-awareness, values, resilience, risk-taking, and patience in manufacturing your own luck

Tina also shares the inspiring origin of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program (co-founded by John Hennessy, former Stanford President, and Phil Knight, founder of Nike) and reflects on teaching leadership to some of the world’s most promising graduate students across all disciplines at Stanford University.

Show Notes & Sources

Pre-order “What I Wish I Knew About Luck” by Tina Seelig

Essential listening for anyone who wants to stop waiting for luck and start building it.


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]]> Tue, 9 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/tina-seelig-on-making-your-own-luck-and-other-critical-life-and-entrepreneurship-skills-0OzcBEfN Stanford educator and renowned creativity expert Tina Seelig joins Richard Lucas on the New Books Network’s Entrepreneurship & Leadership channel to discuss her new book What I Wish I Knew About Luck (coming April 2026).

As the host found himself agreeing with everything Tina said, he asked for examples of people who disagreed with her. First, they discussed the value of respectful disagreement, and the fact that Richard’s father, the late Oxford philosopher JR Lucas routinely took the opportunity to disagree with his son, no matter what point of view was being put forward. Tina shared that her father, aged 99, still thinks that good things just happened to him over the course of his life, whereas she outlines all the actions he took to create that good luck. Tina dismantles the myth that luck is purely random. She distinguishes fortune (things that happen to you) from luck (something you can actively cultivate), and explains why clichés such as “the harder I work, the luckier I get” or “fortune favors the prepared mind” are true but incomplete. What is the “hard work” required to create luck? What exactly is a “prepared mind”?

Key highlights:

  • Why entrepreneurship and creativity are teachable skills that everyone can improve, just like sports, music, art, math, or science.

  • The value of keeping a “failure résumé” and viewing failure as a trampoline rather than a lava pit.

  • Real stories of ethical dilemmas early and late in her career. Full details in the book and podcast.

  • Why showing genuine appreciation (especially thank-you notes) is one of the highest-ROI habits for creating luck. A thank you note she wrote was read out at a funeral 20 years later.

  • How to build trust, have difficult conversations, and surround yourself with the right “crew”

  • The foundational role of self-awareness, values, resilience, risk-taking, and patience in manufacturing your own luck

Tina also shares the inspiring origin of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program (co-founded by John Hennessy, former Stanford President, and Phil Knight, founder of Nike) and reflects on teaching leadership to some of the world’s most promising graduate students across all disciplines at Stanford University.

Show Notes & Sources

Pre-order “What I Wish I Knew About Luck” by Tina Seelig

Essential listening for anyone who wants to stop waiting for luck and start building it.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tina Seelig on Making Your Own Luck and Other Critical Life and Entrepreneurship Skills New Books Network 00:41:35 Stanford educator and renowned creativity expert Tina Seelig joins Richard Lucas on the New Books Network’s Entrepreneurship & Leadership channel to discuss her new book What I Wish I Knew About Luck (coming April 2026). As the host found himself agreeing with everything Tina said, he asked for examples of people who disagreed with her. First, they discussed the value of respectful disagreement, and the fact that Richard’s father, the late Oxford philosopher JR Lucas routinely took the opportunity to disagree with his son, no matter what point of view was being put forward. Tina shared that her father, aged 99, still thinks that good things just happened to him over the course of his life, whereas she outlines all the actions he took to create that good luck. Tina dismantles the myth that luck is purely random. She distinguishes fortune (things that happen to you) from luck (something you can actively cultivate), and explains why clichés such as “the harder I work, the luckier I get” or “fortune favors the prepared mind” are true but incomplete. What is the “hard work” required to create luck? What exactly is a “prepared mind”? Key highlights: Why entrepreneurship and creativity are teachable skills that everyone can improve, just like sports, music, art, math, or science. The value of keeping a “failure résumé” and viewing failure as a trampoline rather than a lava pit. Real stories of ethical dilemmas early and late in her career. Full details in the book and podcast. Why showing genuine appreciation (especially thank-you notes) is one of the highest-ROI habits for creating luck. A thank you note she wrote was read out at a funeral 20 years later. How to build trust, have difficult conversations, and surround yourself with the right “crew” The foundational role of self-awareness, values, resilience, risk-taking, and patience in manufacturing your own luck Tina also shares the inspiring origin of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program (co-founded by John Hennessy, former Stanford President, and Phil Knight, founder of Nike) and reflects on teaching leadership to some of the world’s most promising graduate students across all disciplines at Stanford University. Show Notes & Sources Pre-order “What I Wish I Knew About Luck” by Tina Seelig Tina’s earlier books: “What I Wish I Knew When I Was 20”, “inGenius”, “Creativity Rules” Tina’s LinkedIn Tina’s Bio, Books, Talks Knight-Hennessy Scholars KHS LinkedIn Stanford Technology Ventures Program (STVP) Tina Seelig’s famous TED Talk and the legendary “$5 entrepreneurship challenge” Books mentioned: “The No Asshole Rule” – Robert Sutton; “The Course of Love” – Alain de Botton; “Radical Candor” – Kim Scott Tina Seelig’s Stanford Profile Essential listening for anyone who wants to stop waiting for luck and start building it. Stanford educator and renowned creativity expert Tina Seelig joins Richard Lucas on the New Books Network’s Entrepreneurship & Leadership channel to discuss her new book What I Wish I Knew About Luck (coming April 2026). As the host found himself agreeing with everything Tina said, he asked for examples of people who disagreed with her. First, they discussed the value of respectful disagreement, and the fact that Richard’s father, the late Oxford philosopher JR Lucas routinely took the opportunity to disagree with his son, no matter what point of view was being put forward. Tina shared that her father, aged 99, still thinks that good things just happened to him over the course of his life, whereas she outlines all the actions he took to create that good luck. Tina dismantles the myth that luck is purely random. She distinguishes fortune (things that happen to you) from luck (something you can actively cultivate), and explains why clichés such as “the harder I work, the luckier I get” or “fortune favors the prepared mind” are true but incomplete. What is the “hard work” required to create luck? What exactly is a “prepared mind”? Key highlights: Why entrepreneurship and creativity are teachable skills that everyone can improve, just like sports, music, art, math, or science. The value of keeping a “failure résumé” and viewing failure as a trampoline rather than a lava pit. Real stories of ethical dilemmas early and late in her career. Full details in the book and podcast. Why showing genuine appreciation (especially thank-you notes) is one of the highest-ROI habits for creating luck. A thank you note she wrote was read out at a funeral 20 years later. How to build trust, have difficult conversations, and surround yourself with the right “crew” The foundational role of self-awareness, values, resilience, risk-taking, and patience in manufacturing your own luck Tina also shares the inspiring origin of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program (co-founded by John Hennessy, former Stanford President, and Phil Knight, founder of Nike) and reflects on teaching leadership to some of the world’s most promising graduate students across all disciplines at Stanford University. Show Notes & Sources Pre-order “What I Wish I Knew About Luck” by Tina Seelig Tina’s earlier books: “What I Wish I Knew When I Was 20”, “inGenius”, “Creativity Rules” Tina’s LinkedIn Tina’s Bio, Books, Talks Knight-Hennessy Scholars KHS LinkedIn Stanford Technology Ventures Program (STVP) Tina Seelig’s famous TED Talk and the legendary “$5 entrepreneurship challenge” Books mentioned: “The No Asshole Rule” – Robert Sutton; “The Course of Love” – Alain de Botton; “Radical Candor” – Kim Scott Tina Seelig’s Stanford Profile Essential listening for anyone who wants to stop waiting for luck and start building it. false full 21 4f078b28-4d4d-11f0-80fe-9320aaafa5d3 Marc Sapir, "I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders" (2025) We all hope to grow old with dignity and some joyfulness. The intimate narratives of 40 extraordinary elders shared in I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders explore both the challenges of aging and the joys and vibrancy that often persist in the twilight years. Poignant observations of the patients and families by a team of health professionals intersecting daily at the Center for Elders' Independence in Oakland, California, reveal the complexities of aging, identity, amid the assertive persistence of the human spirit.

From a couple's summer drive across the Arizona desert to a family's struggle with mental illness to patients' romantic escapades, each tale offers a unique glimpse into the resilience of individuals facing profound transitions and prompts questions about our collective responsibility to our elders.

Though this book is valuable for medical and public health professionals, it especially offers families kinship, support, and inspiration. For patients and readers in general, I'll Fly Away champions the idea that every one of us is a unique person with needs, wants, and a voice that is discoverable and deserves to be heard. It embodies the notion that every life is a story, and every voice matters.

Marc Sapir, a retired primary care, geriatric and public health physician, is an essayist and political activist. He was first Medical Director of the Center for Elders' Independence for disabled elders for 9 years. He is author of five plays, and also writes fiction, poetry, and music. He lives in Berkeley, CA.

Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network.


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]]> Sat, 21 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/marc-sapir-ill-fly-away-stories-about-amazing-disabled-elders-2025-iQYQFEzb We all hope to grow old with dignity and some joyfulness. The intimate narratives of 40 extraordinary elders shared in I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders explore both the challenges of aging and the joys and vibrancy that often persist in the twilight years. Poignant observations of the patients and families by a team of health professionals intersecting daily at the Center for Elders' Independence in Oakland, California, reveal the complexities of aging, identity, amid the assertive persistence of the human spirit.

From a couple's summer drive across the Arizona desert to a family's struggle with mental illness to patients' romantic escapades, each tale offers a unique glimpse into the resilience of individuals facing profound transitions and prompts questions about our collective responsibility to our elders.

Though this book is valuable for medical and public health professionals, it especially offers families kinship, support, and inspiration. For patients and readers in general, I'll Fly Away champions the idea that every one of us is a unique person with needs, wants, and a voice that is discoverable and deserves to be heard. It embodies the notion that every life is a story, and every voice matters.

Marc Sapir, a retired primary care, geriatric and public health physician, is an essayist and political activist. He was first Medical Director of the Center for Elders' Independence for disabled elders for 9 years. He is author of five plays, and also writes fiction, poetry, and music. He lives in Berkeley, CA.

Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network.


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]]> Marc Sapir, "I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders" (2025) New Books Network 00:45:54 We all hope to grow old with dignity and some joyfulness. The intimate narratives of 40 extraordinary elders shared in I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders explore both the challenges of aging and the joys and vibrancy that often persist in the twilight years. Poignant observations of the patients and families by a team of health professionals intersecting daily at the Center for Elders' Independence in Oakland, California, reveal the complexities of aging, identity, amid the assertive persistence of the human spirit. From a couple's summer drive across the Arizona desert to a family's struggle with mental illness to patients' romantic escapades, each tale offers a unique glimpse into the resilience of individuals facing profound transitions and prompts questions about our collective responsibility to our elders. Though this book is valuable for medical and public health professionals, it especially offers families kinship, support, and inspiration. For patients and readers in general, I'll Fly Away champions the idea that every one of us is a unique person with needs, wants, and a voice that is discoverable and deserves to be heard. It embodies the notion that every life is a story, and every voice matters. Marc Sapir, a retired primary care, geriatric and public health physician, is an essayist and political activist. He was first Medical Director of the Center for Elders' Independence for disabled elders for 9 years. He is author of five plays, and also writes fiction, poetry, and music. He lives in Berkeley, CA. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. We all hope to grow old with dignity and some joyfulness. The intimate narratives of 40 extraordinary elders shared in I'll Fly Away: Stories About Amazing Disabled Elders explore both the challenges of aging and the joys and vibrancy that often persist in the twilight years. Poignant observations of the patients and families by a team of health professionals intersecting daily at the Center for Elders' Independence in Oakland, California, reveal the complexities of aging, identity, amid the assertive persistence of the human spirit. From a couple's summer drive across the Arizona desert to a family's struggle with mental illness to patients' romantic escapades, each tale offers a unique glimpse into the resilience of individuals facing profound transitions and prompts questions about our collective responsibility to our elders. Though this book is valuable for medical and public health professionals, it especially offers families kinship, support, and inspiration. For patients and readers in general, I'll Fly Away champions the idea that every one of us is a unique person with needs, wants, and a voice that is discoverable and deserves to be heard. It embodies the notion that every life is a story, and every voice matters. Marc Sapir, a retired primary care, geriatric and public health physician, is an essayist and political activist. He was first Medical Director of the Center for Elders' Independence for disabled elders for 9 years. He is author of five plays, and also writes fiction, poetry, and music. He lives in Berkeley, CA. Caleb Zakarin is editor of the New Books Network. false full 20 e43cccfa-a511-11eb-a96c-73e701bf1fbd Bhante Saranapala on Kindness What does wisdom have to do with kindness? This podcast features words of wisdom form Bhante Saranapala, also known as The Urban Buddhist Monk. An International Monk, Teacher, and Speaker, Bhante is the Founder and President of Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation, he teaches loving-kindness meditation and offers private consultation and public speaking.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Mon, 14 Aug 2023 18:50:11 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/bhante-saranapala-on-kindness-aO8uLaCM What does wisdom have to do with kindness? This podcast features words of wisdom form Bhante Saranapala, also known as The Urban Buddhist Monk. An International Monk, Teacher, and Speaker, Bhante is the Founder and President of Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation, he teaches loving-kindness meditation and offers private consultation and public speaking.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Bhante Saranapala on Kindness New Books Network 00:46:51 What does wisdom have to do with kindness? This podcast features words of wisdom form Bhante Saranapala, also known as The Urban Buddhist Monk. An International Monk, Teacher, and Speaker, Bhante is the Founder and President of Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation, he teaches loving-kindness meditation and offers private consultation and public speaking. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What does wisdom have to do with kindness? This podcast features words of wisdom form Bhante Saranapala, also known as The Urban Buddhist Monk. An International Monk, Teacher, and Speaker, Bhante is the Founder and President of Canada: A Mindful and Kind Nation, he teaches loving-kindness meditation and offers private consultation and public speaking. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 1 c7be9986-15b9-11ed-aa88-a72d5e22c246 Marion (Mugs) McConnell, "Letters from the Yoga Masters" (North Atlantic Books, 2016) This intimate and insightful account of the life of Dr. Harry (Hari) Dickman, referred to by Swami Sivananda as “the yogi of the West,” features more than fifty years of correspondence between Dickman and well-known yoga masters such as Swami Sivananda, Ramana Maharshi, Paramhansa Yogananda, and almost one hundred others. Marion (Mugs) McConnell, Dickman’s student, has created a brilliant and loving tribute to her teacher, who founded the Latvian Yoga Society in the early 1930s and later spread his knowledge in the U.S. with the blessings of Paramhansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi. 

Offering a broad range of information on yoga history, theory, and techniques from a variety of different paths, Letters from the Yoga Masters (North Atlantic Books, 2016) contains a treasure trove of previously unavailable material and presents detailed teachings about pranayama, mudras, diet, and much more, all interwoven with stories and personal anecdotes. Taken together, the rare correspondence and personal chronicles provide an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a yogi, the development of yoga in the West, and the ways that spiritual wealth is disseminated across generations.

Some resources: 

-SOYA (South Okanagan Yoga Academy)

-Letters from the Yoga Masters

-Yoga Masters playlist

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Thu, 11 Aug 2022 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/marion-mugs-mcconnell-letters-from-the-yoga-masters-north-atlantic-books-2016-DunmqVAT This intimate and insightful account of the life of Dr. Harry (Hari) Dickman, referred to by Swami Sivananda as “the yogi of the West,” features more than fifty years of correspondence between Dickman and well-known yoga masters such as Swami Sivananda, Ramana Maharshi, Paramhansa Yogananda, and almost one hundred others. Marion (Mugs) McConnell, Dickman’s student, has created a brilliant and loving tribute to her teacher, who founded the Latvian Yoga Society in the early 1930s and later spread his knowledge in the U.S. with the blessings of Paramhansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi. 

Offering a broad range of information on yoga history, theory, and techniques from a variety of different paths, Letters from the Yoga Masters (North Atlantic Books, 2016) contains a treasure trove of previously unavailable material and presents detailed teachings about pranayama, mudras, diet, and much more, all interwoven with stories and personal anecdotes. Taken together, the rare correspondence and personal chronicles provide an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a yogi, the development of yoga in the West, and the ways that spiritual wealth is disseminated across generations.

Some resources: 

-SOYA (South Okanagan Yoga Academy)

-Letters from the Yoga Masters

-Yoga Masters playlist

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Marion (Mugs) McConnell, "Letters from the Yoga Masters" (North Atlantic Books, 2016) New Books Network 00:45:48 This intimate and insightful account of the life of Dr. Harry (Hari) Dickman, referred to by Swami Sivananda as “the yogi of the West,” features more than fifty years of correspondence between Dickman and well-known yoga masters such as Swami Sivananda, Ramana Maharshi, Paramhansa Yogananda, and almost one hundred others. Marion (Mugs) McConnell, Dickman’s student, has created a brilliant and loving tribute to her teacher, who founded the Latvian Yoga Society in the early 1930s and later spread his knowledge in the U.S. with the blessings of Paramhansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi.  Offering a broad range of information on yoga history, theory, and techniques from a variety of different paths, Letters from the Yoga Masters (North Atlantic Books, 2016) contains a treasure trove of previously unavailable material and presents detailed teachings about pranayama, mudras, diet, and much more, all interwoven with stories and personal anecdotes. Taken together, the rare correspondence and personal chronicles provide an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a yogi, the development of yoga in the West, and the ways that spiritual wealth is disseminated across generations. Some resources:  -SOYA (South Okanagan Yoga Academy) -Letters from the Yoga Masters -Yoga Masters playlist Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. This intimate and insightful account of the life of Dr. Harry (Hari) Dickman, referred to by Swami Sivananda as “the yogi of the West,” features more than fifty years of correspondence between Dickman and well-known yoga masters such as Swami Sivananda, Ramana Maharshi, Paramhansa Yogananda, and almost one hundred others. Marion (Mugs) McConnell, Dickman’s student, has created a brilliant and loving tribute to her teacher, who founded the Latvian Yoga Society in the early 1930s and later spread his knowledge in the U.S. with the blessings of Paramhansa Yogananda, author of Autobiography of a Yogi.  Offering a broad range of information on yoga history, theory, and techniques from a variety of different paths, Letters from the Yoga Masters (North Atlantic Books, 2016) contains a treasure trove of previously unavailable material and presents detailed teachings about pranayama, mudras, diet, and much more, all interwoven with stories and personal anecdotes. Taken together, the rare correspondence and personal chronicles provide an unparalleled glimpse into the life of a yogi, the development of yoga in the West, and the ways that spiritual wealth is disseminated across generations. Some resources:  -SOYA (South Okanagan Yoga Academy) -Letters from the Yoga Masters -Yoga Masters playlist Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 214 1ec347be-fed0-11ec-a7ad-bfac95cf4015 Simran Jeet Singh, "The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life" (Riverhead, 2022) An inspiring approach to a happier, more fulfilling life through Sikh teachings on love and service. 

As a boy growing up in South Texas, Simran Jeet Singh and his brothers confronted racism daily: at school, in their neighborhood, playing sports, and later in college and beyond. Instead, Singh delved deep into the Sikh teachings that he grew up with and embraced the lessons to seek the good in every person and situation and to find positive ways to direct his energy. Singh reaches beyond his comfort zone to practice this deeper form of living and explores how everyone can learn the insights and skills that have kept him engaged and led him to commit to activism without becoming consumed by anger, self-pity, or burnout. Part memoir, part spiritual journey, The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life (Riverhead, 2022) is a transformative book of hope that shows how each of us can turn away from fear and uncertainty and move toward renewal and positive change.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Tue, 19 Jul 2022 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/simran-jeet-singh-the-light-we-give-how-sikh-wisdom-can-transform-your-life-riverhead-2022-eMe2bsOP An inspiring approach to a happier, more fulfilling life through Sikh teachings on love and service. 

As a boy growing up in South Texas, Simran Jeet Singh and his brothers confronted racism daily: at school, in their neighborhood, playing sports, and later in college and beyond. Instead, Singh delved deep into the Sikh teachings that he grew up with and embraced the lessons to seek the good in every person and situation and to find positive ways to direct his energy. Singh reaches beyond his comfort zone to practice this deeper form of living and explores how everyone can learn the insights and skills that have kept him engaged and led him to commit to activism without becoming consumed by anger, self-pity, or burnout. Part memoir, part spiritual journey, The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life (Riverhead, 2022) is a transformative book of hope that shows how each of us can turn away from fear and uncertainty and move toward renewal and positive change.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Simran Jeet Singh, "The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life" (Riverhead, 2022) New Books Network 00:40:17 An inspiring approach to a happier, more fulfilling life through Sikh teachings on love and service.  As a boy growing up in South Texas, Simran Jeet Singh and his brothers confronted racism daily: at school, in their neighborhood, playing sports, and later in college and beyond. Instead, Singh delved deep into the Sikh teachings that he grew up with and embraced the lessons to seek the good in every person and situation and to find positive ways to direct his energy. Singh reaches beyond his comfort zone to practice this deeper form of living and explores how everyone can learn the insights and skills that have kept him engaged and led him to commit to activism without becoming consumed by anger, self-pity, or burnout. Part memoir, part spiritual journey, The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life (Riverhead, 2022) is a transformative book of hope that shows how each of us can turn away from fear and uncertainty and move toward renewal and positive change. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. An inspiring approach to a happier, more fulfilling life through Sikh teachings on love and service.  As a boy growing up in South Texas, Simran Jeet Singh and his brothers confronted racism daily: at school, in their neighborhood, playing sports, and later in college and beyond. Instead, Singh delved deep into the Sikh teachings that he grew up with and embraced the lessons to seek the good in every person and situation and to find positive ways to direct his energy. Singh reaches beyond his comfort zone to practice this deeper form of living and explores how everyone can learn the insights and skills that have kept him engaged and led him to commit to activism without becoming consumed by anger, self-pity, or burnout. Part memoir, part spiritual journey, The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life (Riverhead, 2022) is a transformative book of hope that shows how each of us can turn away from fear and uncertainty and move toward renewal and positive change. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, online educator, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 209 383e2fc4-4a21-11ec-b3eb-93201e0482ec Atmadarshan Laura Santoro, "Song of Your Soul," a New Translation of the Bhagavad Gita Raj Balkaran interviews Atmadarshan Laura Santoro co-owner of Dharma Kshetra Yoga and author of forthcoming book The Song of Your Soul (an original new translation of the Bhagavad Gita) on the role of yoga and Indian spirituality in fostering life wisdom. They discuss her rich relationship to the Bhagavad Gītā and issues of cultural appropriation in modern yoga movements.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 24 Nov 2021 09:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/atmadarshan-laura-santoro-song-of-your-soul-a-new-translation-of-the-bhagavad-gita-c0s_Zl4h Raj Balkaran interviews Atmadarshan Laura Santoro co-owner of Dharma Kshetra Yoga and author of forthcoming book The Song of Your Soul (an original new translation of the Bhagavad Gita) on the role of yoga and Indian spirituality in fostering life wisdom. They discuss her rich relationship to the Bhagavad Gītā and issues of cultural appropriation in modern yoga movements.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Atmadarshan Laura Santoro, "Song of Your Soul," a New Translation of the Bhagavad Gita New Books Network 00:51:02 Raj Balkaran interviews Atmadarshan Laura Santoro co-owner of Dharma Kshetra Yoga and author of forthcoming book The Song of Your Soul (an original new translation of the Bhagavad Gita) on the role of yoga and Indian spirituality in fostering life wisdom. They discuss her rich relationship to the Bhagavad Gītā and issues of cultural appropriation in modern yoga movements. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. Raj Balkaran interviews Atmadarshan Laura Santoro co-owner of Dharma Kshetra Yoga and author of forthcoming book The Song of Your Soul (an original new translation of the Bhagavad Gita) on the role of yoga and Indian spirituality in fostering life wisdom. They discuss her rich relationship to the Bhagavad Gītā and issues of cultural appropriation in modern yoga movements. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 16 3bd107c8-17b4-11ec-b908-8b770a38787e Mark Van Buren on Meditation and Mindfulness Training This podcast features the wisdom and work of Mark Van Buren, Bergen County's go-to guide for all meditation and mindfulness-based training. With well over a decade of experience in the field, Mark instructs meditation workshops, lectures, professional development days, corporate wellness classes, and silent retreats in a practical, yet accessible way. He offers simple tools and practices that can reduce stress, help with anxiety and depression, manage pain, and transform the many difficult aspects of life. Mark also has a recently published book: Your Life Is Meditation (2020). You can follow Mark on Twitter here: @authormarkvanburen. Find him on Facebook here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/mark-van-buren-on-meditation-and-mindfulness-training-tyuYqqIL This podcast features the wisdom and work of Mark Van Buren, Bergen County's go-to guide for all meditation and mindfulness-based training. With well over a decade of experience in the field, Mark instructs meditation workshops, lectures, professional development days, corporate wellness classes, and silent retreats in a practical, yet accessible way. He offers simple tools and practices that can reduce stress, help with anxiety and depression, manage pain, and transform the many difficult aspects of life. Mark also has a recently published book: Your Life Is Meditation (2020). You can follow Mark on Twitter here: @authormarkvanburen. Find him on Facebook here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Mark Van Buren on Meditation and Mindfulness Training New Books Network 00:41:14 This podcast features the wisdom and work of Mark Van Buren, Bergen County's go-to guide for all meditation and mindfulness-based training. With well over a decade of experience in the field, Mark instructs meditation workshops, lectures, professional development days, corporate wellness classes, and silent retreats in a practical, yet accessible way. He offers simple tools and practices that can reduce stress, help with anxiety and depression, manage pain, and transform the many difficult aspects of life. Mark also has a recently published book: Your Life Is Meditation (2020). You can follow Mark on Twitter here: @authormarkvanburen. Find him on Facebook here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. This podcast features the wisdom and work of Mark Van Buren, Bergen County's go-to guide for all meditation and mindfulness-based training. With well over a decade of experience in the field, Mark instructs meditation workshops, lectures, professional development days, corporate wellness classes, and silent retreats in a practical, yet accessible way. He offers simple tools and practices that can reduce stress, help with anxiety and depression, manage pain, and transform the many difficult aspects of life. Mark also has a recently published book: Your Life Is Meditation (2020). You can follow Mark on Twitter here: @authormarkvanburen. Find him on Facebook here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 14 c5356f6c-fc5d-11eb-b855-2f4c90be0823 Pamela Ayo Yetunde on being Black and Buddhist What does it mean to be black and Buddhist, and what does that have to do with Life Wisdom? This episode of Life Wisdom features the dynamic work of Pamela Ayo Yetunde, Pastoral Counsellor, Co-Founder of Centre of the Heart, Buddhist Justice Reporter and co-editor of Black and Buddhist: What Buddhism Can Teach Us about Race, Resilience, Transformation, and Freedom.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 25 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/pamela-ayo-yetunde-on-being-black-and-buddhist-yXs0tGTd What does it mean to be black and Buddhist, and what does that have to do with Life Wisdom? This episode of Life Wisdom features the dynamic work of Pamela Ayo Yetunde, Pastoral Counsellor, Co-Founder of Centre of the Heart, Buddhist Justice Reporter and co-editor of Black and Buddhist: What Buddhism Can Teach Us about Race, Resilience, Transformation, and Freedom.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Pamela Ayo Yetunde on being Black and Buddhist New Books Network 00:51:52 What does it mean to be black and Buddhist, and what does that have to do with Life Wisdom? This episode of Life Wisdom features the dynamic work of Pamela Ayo Yetunde, Pastoral Counsellor, Co-Founder of Centre of the Heart, Buddhist Justice Reporter and co-editor of Black and Buddhist: What Buddhism Can Teach Us about Race, Resilience, Transformation, and Freedom. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What does it mean to be black and Buddhist, and what does that have to do with Life Wisdom? This episode of Life Wisdom features the dynamic work of Pamela Ayo Yetunde, Pastoral Counsellor, Co-Founder of Centre of the Heart, Buddhist Justice Reporter and co-editor of Black and Buddhist: What Buddhism Can Teach Us about Race, Resilience, Transformation, and Freedom. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 16 53965bb6-fc51-11eb-ab79-8b32e61bddeb Oneika Mays on Wisdom and Social Activism How do you engage in social activism in a healthy, balanced sustainable manner? This podcast features the considerable social justice wisdom of Oneika Mays (she, her, certified meditation teacher, E-RYT, LMT and energy worker) who teaches mindfulness to incarcerated people at Rikers Island Correctional Facility in NYC. We discuss the significance of self-care and self-inquiry to social activism, and much more! Oneika is on Twitter: @oneikamays. Some things mentioned in the interview:

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 18 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/oneika-mays-on-wisdom-and-social-activism-ySM86r9K How do you engage in social activism in a healthy, balanced sustainable manner? This podcast features the considerable social justice wisdom of Oneika Mays (she, her, certified meditation teacher, E-RYT, LMT and energy worker) who teaches mindfulness to incarcerated people at Rikers Island Correctional Facility in NYC. We discuss the significance of self-care and self-inquiry to social activism, and much more! Oneika is on Twitter: @oneikamays. Some things mentioned in the interview:

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Oneika Mays on Wisdom and Social Activism New Books Network 00:44:12 How do you engage in social activism in a healthy, balanced sustainable manner? This podcast features the considerable social justice wisdom of Oneika Mays (she, her, certified meditation teacher, E-RYT, LMT and energy worker) who teaches mindfulness to incarcerated people at Rikers Island Correctional Facility in NYC. We discuss the significance of self-care and self-inquiry to social activism, and much more! Oneika is on Twitter: @oneikamays. Some things mentioned in the interview: On Forgiveness- Responsive Conference Social Justice and Yoga- Chitheads Podcast The Future of the yoga teacher- Embodied Philosophy Lost Resort | TBS.com CTZNWELL Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. How do you engage in social activism in a healthy, balanced sustainable manner? This podcast features the considerable social justice wisdom of Oneika Mays (she, her, certified meditation teacher, E-RYT, LMT and energy worker) who teaches mindfulness to incarcerated people at Rikers Island Correctional Facility in NYC. We discuss the significance of self-care and self-inquiry to social activism, and much more! Oneika is on Twitter: @oneikamays. Some things mentioned in the interview: On Forgiveness- Responsive Conference Social Justice and Yoga- Chitheads Podcast The Future of the yoga teacher- Embodied Philosophy Lost Resort | TBS.com CTZNWELL Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 13 d0a4b8e6-f5df-11eb-9905-4f9ed2abd343 A Conversation with Jacob Kyle, Founder of Embodied Philosophy Raj Balkaran speaks with Jacob Kyle about the genesis and vision of the online educational platform Embodied Philosophy. Over the course of their rich conversation, they touch on contemplative studies, the journal Tarka, yoga in the West, the scholar-practitioner, the state of online education, the ethics of entrepreneurship and the integration of spiritual and scholarly paradigms.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 11 Aug 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/a-conversation-with-jacob-kyle-founder-of-embodied-philosophy-gcZeD7wm Raj Balkaran speaks with Jacob Kyle about the genesis and vision of the online educational platform Embodied Philosophy. Over the course of their rich conversation, they touch on contemplative studies, the journal Tarka, yoga in the West, the scholar-practitioner, the state of online education, the ethics of entrepreneurship and the integration of spiritual and scholarly paradigms.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> A Conversation with Jacob Kyle, Founder of Embodied Philosophy New Books Network 01:07:00 Raj Balkaran speaks with Jacob Kyle about the genesis and vision of the online educational platform Embodied Philosophy. Over the course of their rich conversation, they touch on contemplative studies, the journal Tarka, yoga in the West, the scholar-practitioner, the state of online education, the ethics of entrepreneurship and the integration of spiritual and scholarly paradigms. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. Raj Balkaran speaks with Jacob Kyle about the genesis and vision of the online educational platform Embodied Philosophy. Over the course of their rich conversation, they touch on contemplative studies, the journal Tarka, yoga in the West, the scholar-practitioner, the state of online education, the ethics of entrepreneurship and the integration of spiritual and scholarly paradigms. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 134 878d49fc-e5a4-11eb-9d33-4be4ff5925f5 Darren Main on Inner Tranquility In this episode of Life Wisdom we speak with yoga and meditation instructor, Darren Main, who is author of Inner Tranquility: A Guide to Seated Meditation, Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic, and River of Wisdom, among other titles. We have a fascinating conversation ranging from his personal journey to mythological storytelling, ancient and modern.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 21 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/darren-main-on-inner-tranquility-RCYXbe0t In this episode of Life Wisdom we speak with yoga and meditation instructor, Darren Main, who is author of Inner Tranquility: A Guide to Seated Meditation, Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic, and River of Wisdom, among other titles. We have a fascinating conversation ranging from his personal journey to mythological storytelling, ancient and modern.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Darren Main on Inner Tranquility New Books Network 01:00:39 In this episode of Life Wisdom we speak with yoga and meditation instructor, Darren Main, who is author of Inner Tranquility: A Guide to Seated Meditation, Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic, and River of Wisdom, among other titles. We have a fascinating conversation ranging from his personal journey to mythological storytelling, ancient and modern. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. In this episode of Life Wisdom we speak with yoga and meditation instructor, Darren Main, who is author of Inner Tranquility: A Guide to Seated Meditation, Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic, and River of Wisdom, among other titles. We have a fascinating conversation ranging from his personal journey to mythological storytelling, ancient and modern. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 12 4aed176e-e4cf-11eb-8158-8f8d557bff8f Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry, "Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice" (Routledge, 2021) This book provides a rigorously researched, critically comparative introduction to yoga. Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry's Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice (Routledge, 2021) recognizes the importance of contemporary understandings of yoga and, at the same time, provides historical context and complexity to modern and pre-modern definitions of yogic ideas and practices. Approaching yoga as a vast web of concepts, traditions, social interests, and embodied practices, it raises questions of knowledge, identity, and power across time and space, including the dynamics of "East" and "West." The text is divided into three main sections: thematic concepts; histories; and topics in modern practice. This accessible guide is essential reading for undergraduate students approaching the topic for the first time, as well as yoga teachers, teacher training programs, casual and devoted practitioners, and interested non-practitioners.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 14 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/anya-p-foxen-and-christa-kuberry-is-this-yoga-concepts-histories-and-the-complexities-of-modern-practice-routledge-2021-gDdb2oJv This book provides a rigorously researched, critically comparative introduction to yoga. Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry's Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice (Routledge, 2021) recognizes the importance of contemporary understandings of yoga and, at the same time, provides historical context and complexity to modern and pre-modern definitions of yogic ideas and practices. Approaching yoga as a vast web of concepts, traditions, social interests, and embodied practices, it raises questions of knowledge, identity, and power across time and space, including the dynamics of "East" and "West." The text is divided into three main sections: thematic concepts; histories; and topics in modern practice. This accessible guide is essential reading for undergraduate students approaching the topic for the first time, as well as yoga teachers, teacher training programs, casual and devoted practitioners, and interested non-practitioners.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry, "Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice" (Routledge, 2021) New Books Network 00:39:59 This book provides a rigorously researched, critically comparative introduction to yoga. Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry's Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice (Routledge, 2021) recognizes the importance of contemporary understandings of yoga and, at the same time, provides historical context and complexity to modern and pre-modern definitions of yogic ideas and practices. Approaching yoga as a vast web of concepts, traditions, social interests, and embodied practices, it raises questions of knowledge, identity, and power across time and space, including the dynamics of "East" and "West." The text is divided into three main sections: thematic concepts; histories; and topics in modern practice. This accessible guide is essential reading for undergraduate students approaching the topic for the first time, as well as yoga teachers, teacher training programs, casual and devoted practitioners, and interested non-practitioners. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. This book provides a rigorously researched, critically comparative introduction to yoga. Anya P. Foxen and Christa Kuberry's Is this Yoga?: Concepts, Histories, and the Complexities of Modern Practice (Routledge, 2021) recognizes the importance of contemporary understandings of yoga and, at the same time, provides historical context and complexity to modern and pre-modern definitions of yogic ideas and practices. Approaching yoga as a vast web of concepts, traditions, social interests, and embodied practices, it raises questions of knowledge, identity, and power across time and space, including the dynamics of "East" and "West." The text is divided into three main sections: thematic concepts; histories; and topics in modern practice. This accessible guide is essential reading for undergraduate students approaching the topic for the first time, as well as yoga teachers, teacher training programs, casual and devoted practitioners, and interested non-practitioners. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 130 87a40174-c560-11eb-b491-1f6d4e41c620 Elder Little Brown Bear: Healing Wisdom from a Métis Elder Elder Little Brown Bear (Ernest W Matton) is a spiritual ambassador who blends Traditional teachings with mainstream information to provide holistic healing approaches for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members and professional disciplines. What wisdom teachings does he have to offer for healing and the current state of the world at large?

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 7 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/elder-little-brown-bear-healing-wisdom-from-a-metis-elder-mZbflRq6 Elder Little Brown Bear (Ernest W Matton) is a spiritual ambassador who blends Traditional teachings with mainstream information to provide holistic healing approaches for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members and professional disciplines. What wisdom teachings does he have to offer for healing and the current state of the world at large?

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Elder Little Brown Bear: Healing Wisdom from a Métis Elder New Books Network 00:30:59 Elder Little Brown Bear (Ernest W Matton) is a spiritual ambassador who blends Traditional teachings with mainstream information to provide holistic healing approaches for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members and professional disciplines. What wisdom teachings does he have to offer for healing and the current state of the world at large? Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. Elder Little Brown Bear (Ernest W Matton) is a spiritual ambassador who blends Traditional teachings with mainstream information to provide holistic healing approaches for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members and professional disciplines. What wisdom teachings does he have to offer for healing and the current state of the world at large? Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 11 eb4d1056-b8b0-11eb-866e-a38d2947c80e Ben Williams on Contemplative Education Is it possible to integrate scholarly study with contemplative practice? What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of doing so? Join us as we speak to Dr. Ben Williams about Naropa University’s vision of Contemplative Education along with their brand-new Masters in Yoga Studies program.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 30 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/ben-williams-on-contemplative-education-G98QKqMs Is it possible to integrate scholarly study with contemplative practice? What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of doing so? Join us as we speak to Dr. Ben Williams about Naropa University’s vision of Contemplative Education along with their brand-new Masters in Yoga Studies program.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Ben Williams on Contemplative Education New Books Network 00:53:54 Is it possible to integrate scholarly study with contemplative practice? What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of doing so? Join us as we speak to Dr. Ben Williams about Naropa University’s vision of Contemplative Education along with their brand-new Masters in Yoga Studies program. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. Is it possible to integrate scholarly study with contemplative practice? What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of doing so? Join us as we speak to Dr. Ben Williams about Naropa University’s vision of Contemplative Education along with their brand-new Masters in Yoga Studies program. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 9 00d020e2-bafc-11eb-8d4c-23ae9931858c Chris Chapple on Nonviolence as Pandemic Wisdom How can the doctrine of nonviolence help us cope with these troubled times? Join us as we speak to Dr. Chris Chapple, Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology at Loyola Marymount University as we discuss specific, ancient strategies for navigating tumultuous times such as this moment in human history.

Chris has been on the NBN a number of times. You can hear interviews with him on various subjects here, here, and here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 23 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/chris-chapple-on-nonviolence-as-pandemic-wisdom-3snuwfz6 How can the doctrine of nonviolence help us cope with these troubled times? Join us as we speak to Dr. Chris Chapple, Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology at Loyola Marymount University as we discuss specific, ancient strategies for navigating tumultuous times such as this moment in human history.

Chris has been on the NBN a number of times. You can hear interviews with him on various subjects here, here, and here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Chris Chapple on Nonviolence as Pandemic Wisdom New Books Network 00:39:01 How can the doctrine of nonviolence help us cope with these troubled times? Join us as we speak to Dr. Chris Chapple, Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology at Loyola Marymount University as we discuss specific, ancient strategies for navigating tumultuous times such as this moment in human history. Chris has been on the NBN a number of times. You can hear interviews with him on various subjects here, here, and here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. How can the doctrine of nonviolence help us cope with these troubled times? Join us as we speak to Dr. Chris Chapple, Professor of Indic and Comparative Theology at Loyola Marymount University as we discuss specific, ancient strategies for navigating tumultuous times such as this moment in human history. Chris has been on the NBN a number of times. You can hear interviews with him on various subjects here, here, and here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 10 faf5c8b2-b753-11eb-889a-0f65fdb9617b Brian Collins on Indian Mythology What insights on the human experience can we find in ancient Indian mythology? Join us as we speak to Dr. Brian Collins (Associate Professor, Chair Department of Classics and Religious Studies, Ohio University) about his work on Paraśu-Rāma, the brahmin who decapitates his own mother and annihilates 21 generations of the warriors.

You can also listen to Brian on the NBN here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 16 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/brian-collins-on-indian-mythology-b62nckh9 What insights on the human experience can we find in ancient Indian mythology? Join us as we speak to Dr. Brian Collins (Associate Professor, Chair Department of Classics and Religious Studies, Ohio University) about his work on Paraśu-Rāma, the brahmin who decapitates his own mother and annihilates 21 generations of the warriors.

You can also listen to Brian on the NBN here. 

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Brian Collins on Indian Mythology New Books Network 00:54:01 What insights on the human experience can we find in ancient Indian mythology? Join us as we speak to Dr. Brian Collins (Associate Professor, Chair Department of Classics and Religious Studies, Ohio University) about his work on Paraśu-Rāma, the brahmin who decapitates his own mother and annihilates 21 generations of the warriors. You can also listen to Brian on the NBN here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What insights on the human experience can we find in ancient Indian mythology? Join us as we speak to Dr. Brian Collins (Associate Professor, Chair Department of Classics and Religious Studies, Ohio University) about his work on Paraśu-Rāma, the brahmin who decapitates his own mother and annihilates 21 generations of the warriors. You can also listen to Brian on the NBN here.  Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 8 3c07c6cc-b4b4-11eb-bea1-cbeaa8c9dc6d Frank Clooney on “The Scholar-Practitioner” To what extent should scholarship foreground the beliefs and experiences of the scholar producing it? Where does the scholar-practitioners fit at the academy today? Join us as we explore such issues in conversation with Dr. Francis Clooney, Jesuit Priest and Harvard Professor of Comparative Theology, specializing in Catholic and Hindu traditions.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 9 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/frank-clooney-on-the-scholar-practitioner-KiOjVRQI To what extent should scholarship foreground the beliefs and experiences of the scholar producing it? Where does the scholar-practitioners fit at the academy today? Join us as we explore such issues in conversation with Dr. Francis Clooney, Jesuit Priest and Harvard Professor of Comparative Theology, specializing in Catholic and Hindu traditions.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Frank Clooney on “The Scholar-Practitioner” New Books Network 00:44:18 To what extent should scholarship foreground the beliefs and experiences of the scholar producing it? Where does the scholar-practitioners fit at the academy today? Join us as we explore such issues in conversation with Dr. Francis Clooney, Jesuit Priest and Harvard Professor of Comparative Theology, specializing in Catholic and Hindu traditions. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. To what extent should scholarship foreground the beliefs and experiences of the scholar producing it? Where does the scholar-practitioners fit at the academy today? Join us as we explore such issues in conversation with Dr. Francis Clooney, Jesuit Priest and Harvard Professor of Comparative Theology, specializing in Catholic and Hindu traditions. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 7 d6250b98-b1d5-11eb-bfaf-afd4290603e9 Ruth Roth on the Wisdom of the Catholic Church What wisdom does the Roman Catholic Church hold for our modern world? Can it become more inclusive? Join us as we speak to Ruth Roth, a Roman Catholic Woman Priest, who was ordained by a Bishop of the Church as part of one such effort.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 2 Jun 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/ruth-roth-on-the-wisdom-of-the-catholic-church-Gmspgens What wisdom does the Roman Catholic Church hold for our modern world? Can it become more inclusive? Join us as we speak to Ruth Roth, a Roman Catholic Woman Priest, who was ordained by a Bishop of the Church as part of one such effort.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Ruth Roth on the Wisdom of the Catholic Church New Books Network 00:35:48 What wisdom does the Roman Catholic Church hold for our modern world? Can it become more inclusive? Join us as we speak to Ruth Roth, a Roman Catholic Woman Priest, who was ordained by a Bishop of the Church as part of one such effort. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What wisdom does the Roman Catholic Church hold for our modern world? Can it become more inclusive? Join us as we speak to Ruth Roth, a Roman Catholic Woman Priest, who was ordained by a Bishop of the Church as part of one such effort. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 6 8107abca-b02c-11eb-8c52-9b75a0b46e66 Arti Dhand on The Mahābhārata What does the Mahābhārata – a gargantuan epic tale from ancient India – have the teach about life wisdom? Learn three core themes of the ancient Sanskrit epic – along with a story of one of its most compelling female characters – from Dr. Arti Dhand, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and host of The Mahābhārata Podcast.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 26 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/arti-dhand-on-the-mahabharata-pnfl_I42 What does the Mahābhārata – a gargantuan epic tale from ancient India – have the teach about life wisdom? Learn three core themes of the ancient Sanskrit epic – along with a story of one of its most compelling female characters – from Dr. Arti Dhand, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and host of The Mahābhārata Podcast.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Arti Dhand on The Mahābhārata New Books Network 00:49:42 What does the Mahābhārata – a gargantuan epic tale from ancient India – have the teach about life wisdom? Learn three core themes of the ancient Sanskrit epic – along with a story of one of its most compelling female characters – from Dr. Arti Dhand, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and host of The Mahābhārata Podcast. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What does the Mahābhārata – a gargantuan epic tale from ancient India – have the teach about life wisdom? Learn three core themes of the ancient Sanskrit epic – along with a story of one of its most compelling female characters – from Dr. Arti Dhand, Associate Professor at the University of Toronto and host of The Mahābhārata Podcast. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 5 83c2ea4a-af65-11eb-a667-4ffc4f2f6ed1 Ian Whicher on Yoga Philosophy What does yoga have to do with wisdom? What do traditional yoga texts teach about the human experience? What relevance does ancient Indian yoga have to the modern world? Learn yogic insights from seasoned scholar-practitioner Dr. Ian Whicher, Professor of Religion at the University of Manitoba.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 19 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/ian-whicher-on-yoga-philosophy-SO9yjosP What does yoga have to do with wisdom? What do traditional yoga texts teach about the human experience? What relevance does ancient Indian yoga have to the modern world? Learn yogic insights from seasoned scholar-practitioner Dr. Ian Whicher, Professor of Religion at the University of Manitoba.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Ian Whicher on Yoga Philosophy New Books Network 00:43:36 What does yoga have to do with wisdom? What do traditional yoga texts teach about the human experience? What relevance does ancient Indian yoga have to the modern world? Learn yogic insights from seasoned scholar-practitioner Dr. Ian Whicher, Professor of Religion at the University of Manitoba. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What does yoga have to do with wisdom? What do traditional yoga texts teach about the human experience? What relevance does ancient Indian yoga have to the modern world? Learn yogic insights from seasoned scholar-practitioner Dr. Ian Whicher, Professor of Religion at the University of Manitoba. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 4 e5d53a38-a517-11eb-9fe9-4be0db62cdbc Bhaktimarga Swami on Devotion What does it mean to be a Swami? This podcast features words of wisdom from ISKCON Leader Bhaktimarga Swami. In drawing from his ISKCON journey which began in 1973, we broach topics of devotion, detachment, and surrender.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 12 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/bhaktimarga-swami-on-devotion-tVz03Zi_ What does it mean to be a Swami? This podcast features words of wisdom from ISKCON Leader Bhaktimarga Swami. In drawing from his ISKCON journey which began in 1973, we broach topics of devotion, detachment, and surrender.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Bhaktimarga Swami on Devotion New Books Network 00:45:53 What does it mean to be a Swami? This podcast features words of wisdom from ISKCON Leader Bhaktimarga Swami. In drawing from his ISKCON journey which began in 1973, we broach topics of devotion, detachment, and surrender. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. What does it mean to be a Swami? This podcast features words of wisdom from ISKCON Leader Bhaktimarga Swami. In drawing from his ISKCON journey which began in 1973, we broach topics of devotion, detachment, and surrender. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 3 c14c5338-a515-11eb-a96c-db3691c16672 Brian Carwana on World Religions Why study World Religions? This podcast features words of wisdom from Dr. Brian Carawana, Executive Director of Encounter World Religions who advocates for widespread religious literacy. We learn core insights Dr. Carwana has arrived at having avidly studying and taught the world’s religions for over 20 years.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


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]]> Wed, 5 May 2021 08:00:00 +0000 marshallpoe@newbooksnetwork.com (New Books Network) https://life-wisdom.simplecast.com/episodes/brian-carwana-on-world-religions-RbX8kJ4i Why study World Religions? This podcast features words of wisdom from Dr. Brian Carawana, Executive Director of Encounter World Religions who advocates for widespread religious literacy. We learn core insights Dr. Carwana has arrived at having avidly studying and taught the world’s religions for over 20 years.

Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

]]> Brian Carwana on World Religions New Books Network 00:45:39 Why study World Religions? This podcast features words of wisdom from Dr. Brian Carawana, Executive Director of Encounter World Religions who advocates for widespread religious literacy. We learn core insights Dr. Carwana has arrived at having avidly studying and taught the world’s religions for over 20 years. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. Why study World Religions? This podcast features words of wisdom from Dr. Brian Carawana, Executive Director of Encounter World Religions who advocates for widespread religious literacy. We learn core insights Dr. Carwana has arrived at having avidly studying and taught the world’s religions for over 20 years. Raj Balkaran is a scholar, educator, consultant, and life coach. For information see rajbalkaran.com. false full 2