Whether you’re seeking guidance on personal growth or a deeper understanding of complex subjects, this podcast delivers thought-provoking content that leaves a lasting impact. Join the ever-growing community of listeners and immerse yourself in the enlightening conversations of the Jordan Peterson podcast to enhance your knowledge and enrich your life.

The discourse and criticism around the Jordan Peterson podcast revolve around his controversial viewpoints on various subjects, ranging from political issues to gender and identity, with supporters praising his insights while detractors raise concerns about his stances and the potential implications of his ideas.

Who is Jordan Peterson?

Born in Canada, Jordan Peterson is a psychologist, author, and professor whose name has gained worldwide recognition. He is widely known for his insightful perspectives on various psychological and philosophical topics, including self-improvement, meaning, and personal responsibility.

With a profound impact on the online community, Jordan Peterson’s influential lectures, interviews, podcast, and books have captivated millions of individuals seeking guidance and understanding in their lives. His unique blend of academic expertise and practical wisdom has earned him a dedicated following, making him a prominent figure in the realm of psychology and self-help. T

he Jordan B. Peterson Podcast delves into insightful discussions on psychology, philosophy, and self-improvement, captivating millions with its enriching content. If you’re looking for profound insights into personal growth and navigating life’s complexities, Jordan Peterson’s work is an invaluable resource worth exploring, however, critics point to the negative discourse that tends to polarize his audience.

In Jordan Peterson’s biblical lecture series, he delves into the intricate relationship between the psychology of religion and theology, offering a unique perspective as a clinical psychologist. With a focus on the American church today and the broader religious movement, Peterson explores the architecture of belief and the impact of dogma, falsehood, and chaos on shaping individual and collective worldviews.

Through his insightful analysis, he navigates the complex terrain of biblical narratives, challenging traditional interpretations and shedding light on profound truths that resonate with diverse audiences seeking a deeper understanding of spirituality and human nature.

Jordan Peterson earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Alberta in 1982. He then pursued further studies at McGill University, where he completed his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) in 1985 and later obtained his Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1991. He is a licensed psychologist and has had a successful career as a professor, teaching at various institutions, including Harvard University and the University of Toronto.

Jordan Peterson’s intellectual journey has been shaped by a diverse range of influences from various disciplines. Some of the significant influences on his thinking and work include:

1. Carl Jung: The Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung’s ideas on psychology and the collective unconscious have greatly impacted Jordan Peterson’s understanding of human behavior and archetypes.

2. Friedrich Nietzsche: The German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche’s concepts of the will to power and the eternal recurrence have influenced Peterson’s discussions on morality and existentialism.

3. Fyodor Dostoevsky: The Russian author’s exploration of human nature, morality, and suffering in his novels resonates with Peterson’s analyses of psychological and philosophical themes.

4. Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn: The writings of the Russian novelist and historian, particularly his account of the Soviet labor camps, have influenced Peterson’s views on totalitarianism and the importance of truth.

5. Jean Piaget: The Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget’s work on cognitive development has influenced Peterson’s understanding of the development of moral reasoning in individuals.

6. Joseph Campbell: The American mythologist’s ideas on the hero’s journey and the universality of myths have inspired Peterson’s exploration of archetypes and narratives.

7. George Orwell: The British author’s critiques of totalitarianism and the importance of individual freedom have informed Peterson’s discussions on political and societal issues.

These are just a few of the many influences that have played a role in shaping Jordan Peterson’s perspectives and ideas. His multidisciplinary approach draws from various fields, making him a unique and influential thinker in contemporary discussions on psychology, philosophy, and social issues.

The 12 Best Jordan Peterson Podcast Episodes

Jordan Peterson’s podcast has gained widespread influence due to its depth and competence in exploring various subjects, offering a merit-based approach to understanding complex ideas. Drawing inspiration from influential figures like Bonhoeffer, Squanto, and Socrates, Peterson provides a transcendent perspective that goes beyond conventional thinking. His innovative insights serve as an antidote to conventional discourse, captivating colleagues and listeners alike as they find inspiration and transformative knowledge within his thought-provoking discussions.

Biblical Series; Episodes 116-128

In this 13 part series, Jordan Peterson embarked on a series of lectures in 2017, exploring the ancient Biblical stories of Genesis from a psychological standpoint. Despite not identifying as a traditional theist, Peterson argues that these stories are fundamental to Western society, its laws, and its well-being.

By interpreting the Bible narratives through a psychological and existential lens, Peterson extracts valuable lessons from each tale, delving into the significance of human nature, tradition, and the importance of meaningful stories. While the lectures are lengthy, the major takeaways include understanding the nature of life and being, the impact of lofty ambitions, the power of choosing positivity over bitterness, and the importance of finding meaning in life.

Peterson emphasizes the significance of love and purpose and their role in fostering a fulfilled existence and defense against the world’s challenges.

Autism, Academics, and Animals with Dr Temple Gradin; Episode 318

Dr. Jordan B. Peterson engages in a discussion with Temple Grandin, a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University, covering topics like visual and verbal thinking, categorization, animal welfare, targeted activism, and the value of hands-on learning opportunities.

Temple Grandin’s impressive career includes designing livestock handling facilities used globally and pioneering animal welfare auditing programs adopted by major corporations. As an acclaimed author, her books, such as “Thinking in Pictures,” “Livestock Handling and Transport,” and “The Autistic Brain,” have gained recognition, with some making it to the New York Times Bestseller List. In recognition of her contributions, Grandin was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 2017 and honored as a Colorado State Distinguished Professor in 2022.

Dream Analysis, AI, & Fairy Tales with Jonathan Pageau; Episode 364

Dr. Jordan B. Peterson engages in an insightful conversation with Jonathan Pageau, a renowned French-Canadian liturgical artist and icon carver. Together, they delve into the profound narratives present in classic fairy tales, the impact of woke culture on positive storytelling, the potential of AI to extract new insights from historical and biblical texts, and the criticism of postmodern cynicism.

They emphasize the crucial importance of preserving foundational storytelling and the exploration of symbolism across history and religion through Jonathan Pageau’s YouTube channel and online carving class, further enriching their meaningful exchange.

Enlightenment and the Righteous Mind with Steven Pinker and Jonathan Haidt; Episode 198

Dr. Peterson, Steven Pinker, and Jonathan Haidt come together for a thought-provoking discussion on truth, societal functioning, utopias, the significance of religion, and more. Steven Pinker, a renowned psychology professor at Harvard and accomplished American author, brings his insights from books like “Enlightenment Now” and “The Blank Slate,” while also contributing to reputable publications like The Guardian and The NY Times. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist at NYU Stern, shares his research on cross-cultural moral foundations, reflecting on his works such as “The Righteous Mind” and “The Coddling of the American Mind,” with his upcoming book, “Three Stories about Capitalism,” anticipated in 2022.

An Atheist in the Realm of Myth with Stephen Fry; Episode 169

In this episode of the Jordan B Peterson Podcast, Peterson is joined by the multi-talented Stephen Fry, a notable British actor, writer, comedian, journalist, and intellectual with a wide-ranging list of accomplishments. They engage in a captivating conversation encompassing drama, literature, politics, and delve into subjects like atheism, religion, rationalism, empiricism, myths, and stories. Additionally, our discussion touches on bartering with reality, Greek and Egyptian mythology, the presence of cruelty in the world, and the merits of constitutional monarchy versus a democratic republic, among many other intriguing topics.

From the Beginning to Now with Lawrence Krauss; Episode 182

In this episode of the Jordan Peterson Podcast, Jordan is joined by Lawrence M. Krauss, an esteemed American-Canadian theoretical physicist and cosmologist known for his significant contributions to particle physics and cosmology research. Dr. Krauss has held positions at prestigious institutions such as Yale University, Case Western Reserve University, and Arizona State University. He is also the founder of ASU’s Origins Project, a non-profit organization that hosts public discussions on science, culture, and social matters. Alongside his scholarly work, Dr. Krauss has authored popular books like “The Physics of Star Trek” and “A Universe from Nothing,” which have garnered widespread attention.

Toxic Masculinity – A 12 Rules for Life Lecture; Episode 52

“12 Rules for Life” by Jordan Peterson offers a profound and practical guide to finding meaning and order in an increasingly chaotic world. Drawing from a combination of psychology, philosophy, and personal experiences, Peterson presents twelve life principles that aim to help readers confront challenges and transform their lives positively. Each rule, such as “Stand up straight with your shoulders back” and “Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today,” is accompanied by engaging stories and insightful explanations, empowering individuals to take responsibility for their actions, embrace their potential, and find purpose in the face of adversity.

Nietzche, Dostoevsky, Kierkegaard (Existentialism); Episode 148

This lecture, the 11th in the 2017 series, explores the giants of existentialism—a philosophical and psychologically grounded perspective that contends (1) mental illness or distress is inherent in human existence, and (2) embracing responsibility through action is the fitting response to life’s challenges.

Exploring the Pareto Principle; Episode 200

In this episode, Peterson explores the Pareto Principle, introduced by Vilfredo Pareto, an economist born in 1848, which states that 80% of consequences result from 20% of the causes, indicating an uneven correlation between inputs and outputs. This principle serves as a general reminder of the imbalanced nature of relationships between inputs and outputs. Known by various names like the Pareto Rule, the 80/20 Rule, or the Matthew Principle, Peterson frequently employs this principle to highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of inequality, illustrating that there is no simple answer to this intricate issue.

Your Dark Side and Control Over Your Life with Robert Greene; Episode 237

In this episode, Robert Greene joins the discussion to explore human nature and the principles related to strategy, power, and seduction. The conversation delves into the motivations behind power, deceptive strategies, Robert’s diverse career journey before becoming an author, psychopathy, manipulation, agreeableness, and grappling with guilt over ambition. Additional topics covered include channeling one’s shadow and more. Robert Greene, renowned for his NY Times bestsellers like “The 48 Laws of Power” and “The Art of Seduction,” is hailed as an international expert on power strategies, attracting a wide following in the business world and Washington DC, along with admiration from individuals ranging from war historians to prominent musicians like Jay-Z, Drake, and 50 Cent.

Julian Assange: Free Speech Martyr? Featuring Stella Assange; Episode 293

In this discussion, Stella Assange and Dr. Jordan B. Peterson delve into the crucial topics of freedom of information, the impact of internet journalism, and the case of Julian Assange, who is considered a prominent political prisoner in the western world. Stella Assange, a lawyer with degrees in law, politics, refugee law, and public international law, passionately advocates for her husband’s freedom. Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, and unofficial author of free speech, gained notoriety for publishing classified government documents, resulting in his unlawful imprisonment. Presently, Stella is at the forefront of the fight for Julian’s freedom and the broader cause of preserving information freedom.

You Probably Should Have Read The Bible | Franciscan University; Episode 251

Recorded on April 4, 2022, this episode features Jordan Peterson’s speech at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he shares his recent reflections on ethics, scripture, and the intricacies of perception. He prompts the audience to consider why we easily remember great stories but quickly forget bad ones, why Western culture took the form of a book rather than other alternatives, and whether the West can truly be characterized as a “phallogocentric” culture. Jordan proposes a radical claim—that many problems we perceive as navigational challenges are actually veiled ethical dilemmas—as he delves into the complexities of navigating the value structures we encounter in reality.

How Popular is The Jordan Peterson Podcast?

Jordan Peterson’s podcast popularity has seen an increase since his suspension from Twitter. Defended by his daughter, Mikhaila Peterson, she pointed out that he went from “#45 in Apple podcasts to #25 since Twitter banned him.” Despite the suspension impacting his Twitter following, Jordan Peterson’s podcast has remained successful, ranking at number 1 in the educational categories on Apple charts in both the U.S. and the U.K. The podcast’s steady position on Spotify, reaching its highest ever ranking of 44 among all podcasts listened to in the United States, further solidifies its enduring appeal. Despite the Twitter ban, Peterson continues to produce content and videos, including an article he wrote for The Guardian titled “Why Twitter is Insane.”

Best Jordan Peterson YouTube Videos & Lectures

• Biblical Series
• Africa is not Poor Because of Colonization
• Identity Politics and the Marxist Lie of White Privilege
• Talking to Muslims About Christ
• Maps of Meaning
• 12 Rules for Life Tour
• Who Dares Say He Believes in God?
• Carl Jung Series
• Existentialism: Nazi Germany and the USSR

Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan

Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan share a professional relationship as well as a personal friendship. They have appeared together on Joe Rogan’s popular podcast, “The Joe Rogan Experience,” multiple times. During these episodes, they engage in deep and wide-ranging conversations covering various subjects, including psychology, philosophy, political issues, and more. Their dynamic and engaging discussions have resonated with millions of listeners, leading to a strong bond between the two intellectual figures. Beyond the podcast appearances, they have expressed mutual respect for each other’s work and ideas, contributing to their close friendship. Their collaborations have significantly contributed to their individual popularity and have solidified their status as influential voices in their respective fields.

Related reading: Best Joe Rogan Podcast Episodes

The Jordan Peterson podcast stands as a compelling and influential platform, drawing millions of listeners with its insightful discussions on psychology, philosophy, and personal growth. Peterson’s unique blend of academic expertise and practical wisdom has captivated audiences worldwide, offering a refreshing perspective on a diverse range of topics. Through engaging conversations with prominent guests and his own thought-provoking insights, the podcast continues to serve as a valuable resource for those seeking guidance, understanding, and inspiration in their lives. With its enduring impact and ever-growing following, the Jordan Peterson podcast remains an essential destination for individuals on their journey of self-discovery and intellectual exploration.

The Mystique of Jordan B. Peterson

Dr. Jordan Peterson is, without question, a polarizing figure. Like so many thinkers, some of his ideas are really out there, while others contain pearls of wisdom that are practical and can be applied to life. So you take the good with the bad, and walk away with what you want.

After all, there’s a big difference between being exposed to an idea and adopting an idea. It’s more important than ever to be aware of ideas that we may not agree with, but should still understand. Cool the temperature down a little bit.

With Dr. Peterson being de-platformed from so many other mediums, the Jordan Peterson Podcast is not only one of the last ways to hear his ideas but, one of the more discreet ways. Nobody knows what’s playing on those earbuds while you’re on the subway. So expand your horizons… or get really angry. But know why you’re mad. It’s healthier that way.

The post The 12 Best Examples of the Jordan Peterson Podcast’s Mystique appeared first on Discover the Best Podcasts | Discover Pods.

This was back in college, and as a Philosophy major I stumbled upon his book The End of Faith. I found it empowering that someone with a mere B.A. in philosophy (albeit from Harvard) could secure a book deal.

I also found it empowering that he didn’t shy away from controversial topics. After all, controversy is part of the essential Sam Harris. So it was with an open mind that I approached that book.

I would later read the rest of his library as it came out. Lying (which has particular importance at the moment vis a vis Sam Bankman-Fried), A Letter to a Christian Nation, Free Will, Waking Up (his treatise on the importance of meditation), Making Sense, and This Will Make You Smarter all found a place on my physical bookshelf.

Podcasts Sam Harris – Waking Up | Making Sense

Thus I was excited when I discovered his podcast during the pandemic. At the time it was called Waking Up, but later changed to Making Sense to avoid confusion with his meditation app of the same name.

We had a new baby and were on lockdown in a quiet neighborhood. So I did a lot of walking, pushing a stroller, with headphones in, listening with rapt attention to Sam’s show.

As in his books, he doesn’t stray from looking at bad ideas, or the human mind, with scientific and philosophical rigor. A large portion of his work has been devoted to looking forward to the human race’s future.

And the existential threats we pose to ourselves that are hiding in plain sight. So let us then dive into the best podcasts Sam Harris has created to date in my opinion.

You can let me know if I’m wrong on twitter… though Sam Harris won’t be there.

Psychedelics

Sam Harris has several shows that feature the benefits (and drawbacks) of using psychedelics. I’ve featured a couple of them right up front because it’s one of the more interesting discussions, and something that isn’t necessarily left or right.

It’s a discussion that deals with mental illness and thus, cuts across all swaths of society.

#306 — Psychedelics & Mortality

Why this Episode is Important: In short, we’ve been fed a lot of nonsense about the potential benefits of psychedelic medicine, and it’s worth hearing from someone who has actually put their scientific career on the line to study it.

Don’t do drugs. Just say no. These are mantras drilled into the heads of every Gen Xer and “Elder Millennial.” We know these statements because they were everywhere. In our schools, plastered on billboards, t-shirts, and stickers.

They even invaded our video games.

But as we grew up, we learned that wasn’t the whole truth. The generations before us grew up with mantras like “Turn on, Tune in, Drop out,” from psychedelic pioneers like Timothy Leary. Making sense of the conflicting, empirical information we saw, versus what we were told was difficult.

Now what if we add death into the mix. This is where episode 306 comes in.

Sam discusses psychedelics with Roland Griffiths, Ph.D. He’s one of the leading researchers on mood altering drugs, and how psilocybin can be used to create spiritual, transformative experiences in patients. They discuss his Stage 4 cancer diagnosis and the nature of consciousness itself.

It’s a fascinating discussion for anyone who has ever suffered from depression, PTSD, or other mental illnesses. And for those who think they were lied to by the Government. Because you were.

#242 – Psychedelics and the Self

Why This Episode is Important: We don’t really have an idea of the scope of what psychedelic treatment’s scale is. Do we need to drop out to get the benefits?

Another really interesting discussion on psychedelics with Dr. James Fadiman on how these treatments can be used to know thyself.

They discuss the practice of micro-dosing, the different types of psychedelics available (natural and synthetic), who shouldn’t take these substances, and ultimately how they can be used to expand consciousness.

They also discuss why one shouldn’t take these drugs by themselves as a guide drastically decreases the chances of having a “bad trip.”

Sam taking on the subject of psychedelics is an interesting one. There’s quite a bit of discussion on personal experience, so it shows a bit of vulnerability that you may not be expecting.

#304 — Why I Left Twitter

Why This Episode is Important: In 2023, Twitter is a revolving series of messes fueled by the hubris of it’s owner, Elon Musk. The introduction to this episode is a fantastic explanation of what this type of communication medium is doing to us as a society, and as individuals.

I love listening to Cal Newport. After Sam explains why he deleted his Twitter account. Spoilers – Twitter sucks and is making people worse. It’s full of fragmented, broken conversations, and is sewing American division.

Looking at you January 6th run up. So, it’s not as though that’s particularly shocking that someone who is devoted to the advancement of the species would try an delete a vice that is breaking the species.

If we look at the latest Congress’ oversight hearings on the “weaponization of the Federal government,” we can see how quickly media bias at the big social media companies took center stage.

So, while this part of the show is relatively short, the rest of the discussion with Cal Newport is superb and focuses further on the fragmentation of modern life. How our time management has taken a collective hit and what we can do about it moving forward.

If you’re concerned about how fragmented our tribes have become, then this is an episode you need to listen to.

#301 – The Politics of Unreality: Ukraine and Nuclear Risk

Why This Episode is Important: We are likely closer to a malignant nuclear detonation than we have been in decades.

Central and Eastern Europe have been having a bit of a moment over the past couple of years. Well, really, around a decade since Russia decided to exercise some expansionist escapades. How the global order is shifting is unknown, but we can see how Russia is trying to shift the unipolar world.

If you grew up in the 80s or before, as I did, the thought of nuclear conflict was a real source of anxiety. It’s hard to shake now, nearly 40 years later in my case.

That’s why this episode with Sam and historian Timothy Snyder was so interesting… and calming. They discuss what the real factors behind the war in Ukraine likely are, and what the risks of escalation could be.

More importantly, they discuss the real possibility of de-escalation.

#300 – A Tale of Cancellation

Why This Episode is Important: Maybe we could all use a bit thicker skin.

The term “Cancel Culture” is thrown around a lot, but in this episode, Sam Harris takes a novel, and clever shot across the bow of those who would silence artists, writers, and journalists.

He interviews filmmaker and former firefighter Meg Smaker about her film “The Unredacted (Jihad Rehab).”

Sam is no stranger to taking on, intellectually, jihadi movements. But he does so knowingly. A jihad doesn’t require violence and the discussion dances around the intellectual side of the movement.

They discuss the coordinated effort to silence Smaker’s film and have it pulled from film festivals. There’s a difference between a jihad to advance the course of Islam and a violent jihad. There’s a difference between cancelling those who deserve it, and capitulating to bullies.

That’s what this discussion is about.

#280 – The Future of Artificial Intelligence

Why This Episode is Important: GPT-3 is one of the most disruptive and exciting technologies of my professional life. And I’m saying that as a writer. It’s worth knowing what it can do and what it can’t do. It’s not SkyNet.

AI… artificial intelligence. Chat GPT. GPT-3.

The Making Sense podcast was ahead of the curve here. In this episode, Sam Harris sits down with Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, to discuss the ramifications and existential risks of AI.

As a writer, obviously, the recent hullabaloo about ChatGPT and its impacts on the job market has me paying close attention. I was paying attention to this episode when it first aired and I still think it’s worth a listen to those who think AI may be coming for your job.

#241 – Final Thoughts on Free Will

Why This Episode is Important: This wrap-up of the series of discussions of free will may keep you up at night. But maybe that is exactly what was supposed to happen.

We live in a democracy. We believe in meritocracy and that we’re responsible for our actions.

But… what if we’re not?

What if there is no mental model that matches up with free will? What if what is predetermined, and baked in is a lot stronger than we think? The writings of Spinoza fascinated me as a young undergrad because the implications are enormous!

Sam Harris has written extensively on the subject of free will and this episode presents his final argument, in audio format, on the subject. If you really haven’t given much thought to free will (because the default is we think we have it), then you must listen to this episode as well as the other related episodes linked here.

#239 – Yet Another Call from Ricky Gervais

Why This Episode is Important: It’s Ricky Gervais and these episodes set the tone of what Absolutely Mental would become.

A special episode indeed. The call in episodes with Ricky Gervais are simply fantastic and lead to their own spin off mini series podcast.

There’s not a tremendous amount to say about these calls with Ricky other than his wit is razor sharp, he’s quick, and hilarious. If you haven’t watched his television show “Afterlife,” you are doing yourself a disservice.

Sam Harris is not a comedian, and Ricky Gervais, not a philosopher. At least neither by trade, but it is brilliant to see what two generational minds do when put in a room together.

#205 – The Failure of Meritocracy

Why This Episode is Important: The concept of meritocracy ignores the fact that you have no control over the circumstances you were born into. What’s known as the veil of ignorance. So how does meritocracy survive in such an environment? Thus, what do we owe each other?

Meritocracy is the dream right? Work hard. Bootstraps. White picket fences. A gold watch. These are the things we dream about. Or dreamed about.

Sam Harris and Daniel Markovits about how the meritocracy system has come up short for younger generations and how boomers may have pulled the ladder up behind them.

Harris begins by asking Markovits if he sees meritocracy as a problem. Markovits agrees that it is a problem but notes that we don’t have another system to replace it with because no one has come up with a better model for distributing opportunities than meritocracy.

Is it corporate courage that has changed the way we work? Cutting jobs and making people bounce around? Is a universal basic income warranted? These are all important questions in a shrinking middle class, because wealth matters, and it is being concentrated like an orange.

#194 – The New Future of Work

Why This Episode is Important: How we work has been a fascinating point of contention throughout my professional life. Ever since reading ReWork by Jason Freid. This one will get you contemplating your own professional future. Maybe I’ll be a bee keeper.

Matt Mullenweg, the co-founder of WordPress (the most popular content management system in the world) and Automattic (the company behind WordPress), has a lot to say about the changing nature of work and how it’s organized.

In this episode of Sam Harris’s podcast, Mullenweg discusses how distributed work has evolved over time and what we can expect in the future. He talks about how knowledge workers are becoming more independent and working from home more often, and how this trend will continue as technology makes remote working easier, faster, and more efficient.

We all watched the implosion of WeWork and how shared spaces weren’t the answer. But with more companies demanding workers come back into the office, what does the future of work really look like?

#157 – What Does the Mueller Report Really Say?

Why This Episode is Important: Because every pundit up to and including the Attorney General and the President of the United States had a self-serving opinion on what this most important of reports said. But what did it really say?

The Mueller Report will likely go down in history as one of the most important documents that more or less said nothing actionable.

There was politics, intrigue, and downright lies that obscured what was really in the report. Both sides claimed enormous victories that left the rest of us wondering, what the the Hell this thing really said.

In this episode, Sam Harris sits down with Benjamin Wittes to talk about what was in that report. What it really, ultimately, said, and what it means for the future of the country.

Spoiler: It’s not good folks.

#140 — Burning Down the Fourth Estate

Why This Episode is Important: American’s fell out of love with partisan news more than a century ago. But it’s back and we aren’t exactly dealing with that well.

Voters have developed a distrust of news media, otherwise known as the fourth estate.

Matt Taibbi and Sam Harris discuss the polarization of American politics through the lens of media. Voters live in media bubbles where they aren’t exposed to opposing ideas in any useful way.

Harris then brought up the controversy over the killing of Jamal Kashoggi, which had recently been revealed by Turkish intelligence officials—the Saudis have been maintaining that he left their consulate alive and well on October 2nd. Both Harris and Taibbi expressed disgust at this cover-up.

Truly, it’s difficult to imagine a scenario where open societies exist without the fourth estate functioning on all cylinders, and this discussion really should open some eyes.

#130 – Universal Basic Income

Why This Episode is Important: There’s a theme building. If work is changing and AI is poised to displace white-collar jobs, what are we going to do as a society?

Andrew Yang is synonymous with UBI, or “Universal Basic Income.”

The rise of automation in the manufacturing industry is well known. It’s been happening for several years now and has been a source of concern for some time. But what about the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on thought workers?

It’s no secret that AI is making inroads into all sorts of industries as it matures, from healthcare to financial services. And while many people are worried about the impact this will have on their jobs, they may not realize how profound this change will be.

So what can we expect to see in the next decade or so?

That’s what Sam Harris and Andrew Yang discuss in this episode where the tenants of UBI and corporate cowardice are discussed at length.

#116 — AI: Racing Toward the Brink

Why This Episode is Important: Human beings like to be the center of attention and we look at our creations through that lens. But what is AI actually going to do? Will it even care about us?

Moving beyond ChatGPT and other linguistic learning algorithms, this episode explores more of your SkyNet, Terminator type of AI.

Just because we can create something, ought we?

That’s one of the most troubling questions humanity hast to ask itself. Our yearning to push the brink of what we can do is strong. But we also know that we tend to screw up a lot.

Should we be constructing minds that are completely artificial. Minds that we may not be able to control. Should we try to control them in the first place? This is a wide ranging discussion of AI that avers towards making the listener think about the implications of unintended consequences.

Something we’ve shown a complete incompetence towards over the past hundred or so years. At least. At… least.

There are quite a few podcasts Sam Harris has done on AI, and the implications. Will AI even care about humanity, or will it think of us more like a trail of ants? Yeah, we don’t necessarily want to step on them, but we also don’t want them in our pantry.

Interesting topic.

#112 — The Intellectual Dark Web

Why This Episode is Important: It teaches us how to apologize and recognize that sometimes we make some bad associations.

At a certain point it was “cool” if you were a cisgendered white male to be part of the Dark Web… but the one for intellectuals. Not that 4 Chan Q Anon crap.

You got to play faux status games and explain what moral knowledge was to those less suspecting. Discuss mating strategies and the basic neuroscience behind dating.

Now, this is an older episode. Sam Harris has since disavowed any such membership in this shadowy web of intellectual sophists. That doesn’t make the interview/discussion with Eric Weinstein and Ben Shapiro not worth a listen.

If you can’t listen to something egregious and learn a lesson, that’s not great. It’s not even good. It’s not even fair.

We’re better off from learning from our mistakes, like giving old Ben Shapiro a platform. We’re better off for learning from his rhetorical nonsense. Is he a great guy? No. Can I learn something from him? Yes.

Open minds.

#111 — The Science of Meditation

Why This Episode is Important: Meditation is not religion. It has a scientific benefit. Something prayer hasn’t reproduced.

The benefits of meditation aren’t magical, they’re science.

Western science is beginning to come around to the benefits of meditation, which eastern schools of thought have been touting for literally thousands of years.

Studies have shown that meditation can help with everything from stress relief to pain management, and even make us more intelligent! In fact, there are so many studies showing these benefits that we could probably write an entire book about it. In fact, Sam Harris has.

In this episode Sam discusses the latest science on meditation with Daniel Goleman and Richard J. Davidson. It’s a phenomenal discussion and worth missing your subway station to make sure you get it all in.

Assuming you’re in New York City of course. If you’re not, use your public transportation metaphor of choice.

#89 — On Becoming a Better Person

Why This Episode is Important: You can only give your integrity away once. So it’s important to build character that doesn’t allow for that to happen.

What does it mean to be blameworthy? How about praiseworthy?

We throw around these terms, these labels, and don’t often explore what it means to attach them to a person, let alone a person’s actions.

In this episode Sam sits down with David Brooks to discuss his book The Road to Character. Character is something that has been sorely lacking in society of late, both in definition and in substance.

So it was especially enjoyable to have to bright thinkers discuss what it means to have character in an age where the term seems antiquated. Really one of the best podcasts Sam Harris has made.

#81 — Leaving Islam

Why This Episode is Important: It’s a primer on Sam’s larger work that launched his career. While he no longer spends much time on the subject of Islam, this is a great primer to his views..

The entirety of my adult life has orbited around a confused discussion of Islam.

From the war on terror, to Palestine it has been difficult to get a straight answer on the subject. To Harris’ credit, he has spent a great deal of time promoting atheism, albeit with a genuine curiosity towards the first principles of Islam.

Like Christianity, or Bitcoin, there are layers built upon the core code that have distorted what those core tenants are. Islam is no different in that regard.

This discussion with Sarah Haider is enlightening. Listening to it now, in 2023, when there are uprisings in Iran and the Taliban has taken back Afghanistan, it is more informative than ever.

#47 — The Frontiers of Political Correctness

Why This Episode is Important: There shouldn’t be topics that we can’t discuss. Especially the hard ones where people tend to have entrenched beliefs that are difficult to shake.

Are there certain subjects that are off limits? That cannot be discussed? As Dave Chapelle said, is there a stove too hot to touch?

This episode originally aired in 2016, but the underlying subject matter is more poignant than ever. We should be able to discuss “taboo” subjects without fear of cancellation. We should expect reprisal, but only rhetorically.

That’s what makes the public square great. That we can discuss the subjects that are slowing us down. That are holding us back. Sam’s discussion here hits on many of those difficult subjects.

Not for shock value, but for the benefit of public discourse.

#37 — Thinking in Public

Why This Episode is Important: It’s Neil deGrasse Tyson at his apogee on a podcast. Yes, he’s had good appearances on the Joe Rogan Experience, but this one is my favorite.

Neil deGrasse Tyson has shown us how the game is to be played.

He’s respected. He’s a genius. And he’s dumbing down subjects such that morons like my can understand them.

This talk between Sam and the aforementioned deGrasse Tyson goes on to show how public discourse should be handled. It should be heavy in subject matter, but lighthearted in execution.

Life isn’t that serious and not a single one of us makes it out alive.

#20 — Still Sleepwalking Toward Armageddon

Why This Episode is Important: It snaps us back to a reality where that “society is heading in the wrong direction” question has some real-life consequences.

When the terror attack in Paris happened, it shocked the world.

It was simple, precise, unexpected, and effective. In this episode, Sam reflects on the conflict between a pluralistic, liberal, open society, and an ideology bent on upending that.

And what can be done about it. Sobering to say the least.

#3 — WAKING UP: Chapter One

Why This Episode is Important: Sam has taken the science of meditation and made it his mission to make that science applicable to everyday life.

Spirituality without religion. That’s kind of Sam’s modus operandi.

This early episode of the podcast is the first chapter of his book, Waking Up. For those who are interested in mediation, and spirituality, but can’t stomach the dogma, this is a must listen.

#63 — Why Meditate?

Why This Episode is Important: A down to earth discussion about the benefits of meditation is beneficial to anyone. If you’ve ever been curious about meditation, this is the episode for you.

Jack Goldstein is a one of the finest vipassana meditation teachers in the west.

Originating roughly 2,500 years ago in India, vipassana meditation is one of the oldest continuously taught practices in existence. In this episode, Sam and Jack discuss the origins of the practice as well as the benefits to the individual this type of mediation offers.

What does it mean to be enlightened? Where does one derive ethics? These are the subjects covered in this wide ranging talk.

#62 — What is True?

Why This Episode is Important: We know a lot less than we think we do. That little bit of postulation can make us humbler and more accepting of other view points that conflict with our own.

One of the first things I learned as a philosophy undergrad was that over more than 2,000 years of western philosophy, there is no agreed upon definition of what is true. That’s the basis of epistemology.

Now, is Dr. Jordan Peterson an expert on what is true? Probably not. But that doesn’t make this discussion about a very murky subject any less interesting.

Take everything said here with a mountain of salt, but as a psychologist, Dr. Peterson is interesting. We’ll dive into his podcast in later posts, but it is an interesting discussion regardless.

#103 — American Fantasies

Why This Episode is Important: Belief and knowledge are like cousins who can’t agree on anything at Thanksgiving. American’s excel at this epistemic conflict.

American’s believe a lot of things. A lot of unfounded things. We hold ideas that have no basis in reality, and as a result, cost ourselves quite a bit of grief.

This discussion features host of Studio 360, Kurt Andersen, to discuss just how ripe Americans are for believing in things that there’s no objective reason to believe in.

Sam and Kurt discuss the puritan ideals that the country was founded on and how those ideals filtered down through history to create some really confounding movements. They discuss Trump, of course, but populism in general and why populism seems to have developed a strong mistrust in expertise as a concept.

It’s a really compelling argument for fixing some of the broken institutions we currently have and trying to redevelop some trust in those who know what they’re talking about.

#270 – What Have We Learned from the Pandemic?

Why This Episode is Important: For the past 3 years we have experienced a collective, global, trauma. But what, if anything, did we learn from the experience?

That Americans believe ideas they have no reason to believe. Basically.

America’s response to the pandemic was abysmal. There’s good reason that we’re still dealing with variants, long COVID, and the like in 2023. Our collective response was fragmented, broken, and not at all taken seriously.

We peddled conspiracy theories for political gain. In short, it was pretty ridiculous the country was shut down for so long. In this episode Sam and Nicholas Christakis discuss the response, where we failed (everywhere essentially) and how this is a primer for a more serious future matter.

#295 – Philosophy and the Good Life

Why This Episode is Important: Everyone needs more philosophy in their lives.

I was drawn to philosophy as an undergrad for a reason. I believe that the unexamined life is one that is full of angst and unnecessary regret. There really is something to philosophy being a gateway to the “good life.”

Or at least a nice life. Your best life. Not mine. The best version of your life possible. That’s why stoicism is having such a resurgence in the popular zeitgeist.

Kieran Setiya and Sam discuss how philosophy can influence our thinking and temper some of our more troubling thought patterns. Quell the FOMO if you will.

It’s a fantastic discussion and a perfect example why I think everyone should read more philosophy on a regular basis.

The Joe Rogan Experience

Why These Episodes Are Important: They show that Sam can bring his intellect out of his own environment and share it with most any audience. A real treat.

An honorable mention goes to the episodes Sam appears on JRE. Since Rogan is also a proponent of psychedelics, there are some interesting discussions on the topic.

I’m also a fan of the episode that features Sam Harris as well as Dan Harris. It showcases both of their phenomenal work introducing meditation to the layman. It is an episode that dovetails nicely with Kiernan Setiya’s episode on Making Sense.

Making Sense of it All

Sam Harris may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I think that has more to do with his association with the dark web of so called intellectuals of which he really isn’t a part.

That’s pure sophistry. Lumping Sam Harris in with Ben Shappiro is universally a bad idea that helps nobody and isn’t a fair comparison.

Ideally these episodes will shine some light on why Sam Harris is a quality thinker and someone who can shake up your thinking somewhat.

The post 27 of the Best Podcasts Sam Harris Has Produced appeared first on Discover the Best Podcasts | Discover Pods.

And meditation podcasts are going to play an enormous role in our collective betterment in 2023. That’s a fact.

What is a meditation podcast?

A meditation podcast is a form of audio content designed to help listeners learn more about the practice of meditation, receive support from experts, and make meditation easier.

These podcasts typically feature guided meditations, inspirational quotes, and expert interviews on topics like yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Many meditation podcasts are specifically geared toward people who already meditate and can provide deeper insights and guidance.

For those just starting out, shorter podcasts with simple guided meditations are a great way to learn how to find stillness and sustain a practice.

Benefits of listening to meditation podcasts

1. Improved Concentration

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve concentration by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Meditation can also decrease blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart, resulting in improved physical and mental health.

Guided meditations can help to calm the mind and relax the body, allowing one to focus more clearly and sharply. Additionally, regular practice of meditation can increase self-awareness, lengthen attention span, and reduce stress, all of which are beneficial for concentration.

2. Reduced Stress Levels

Listening to meditation podcasts helps reduce stress levels by activating the body’s stress response and calming the nervous system. This can have positive physical and mental impacts, including reducing anxiety and depression, increasing self-awareness and attention span, and lowering blood pressure to help the heart.

Research suggests that regular meditation and mindfulness practice is just as effective as a gold-standard antidepressant for the treatment of anxiety, and it comes with fewer side effects.

3. Improved Mood

Have you been in a crappy mood lately and don’t know why? I certainly have.

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve mood by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and by promoting emotional health. Research suggests that meditation can have positive impacts on physical and mental wellbeing, including reducing anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as decreasing blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart.

This occurs because meditation is associated with nervous system arousal and the activation of the stress response. Podcasts can work particularly well for meditation, as they can be listened to on a lunch break, first thing in the morning, or before bed at night.

4. Increased Mindfulness

Listening to meditation podcasts can increase mindfulness by allowing listeners to engage with their practice of mindfulness more deeply. These podcasts provide a way for listeners to connect with their inner self, explore their feelings, and gain a greater understanding of their thoughts.

Through guided meditations and lyrical lessons, listeners can develop greater self-awareness, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve their attention span.

Listening to meditation podcasts also can help to reduce strain on the heart and lower blood pressure, as it is associated with a decrease in nervous system arousal and the activation of the stress response.

5. Improved Focus and Attention

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve focus and attention by helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve moods, and increase self-awareness. Through guided meditations and simple, snappy episodes, meditation podcasts can help to decrease stress levels, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the nervous system to reduce strain on the heart.

Additionally, mindfulness practice can help to sharpen mental focus and lead to a more relaxed and contented life, allowing us to better attend to our world’s most pressing issues.

6. Enhanced Self-Awareness

Listening to meditation podcasts can help enhance self-awareness by providing guidance in techniques such as mindfulness, emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and positive psychology. Through podcasts, listeners are encouraged to focus on their inner self and to practice self-care.

These techniques help to create space for relief when dealing with stress, trauma, and burnout. In addition, exploring topics such as gratitude, happiness, relationships, and resilience can provide insight into how to live a more meaningful life.

By engaging in these practices, individuals can become more mindful of their thoughts and emotions and have a heightened sense of self-awareness.

7. Increased Emotional Well-Being

Listening to meditation podcasts can have a significant impact on emotional well-being. By exploring topics such as gratitude, resilience, self-awareness, and mindfulness, listeners are able to gain a better understanding of their emotions, allowing them to manage stress and anxiety more effectively.

Podcasts such as Mindfulness Mode and The Science of Happiness, hosted by Bruce Langford and Jen Fisher, respectively, provide valuable insights into positive psychology that can help increase calm, focus, and overall happiness.

Furthermore, research suggests that meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart. Ultimately, podcasts provide a convenient and accessible way to help individuals learn the skills necessary to enhance their emotional well-being.

8. Improved Sleep Quality

In today’s fast paced world, we tend to neglect sleep hygiene.

Listening to meditation podcasts can improve sleep quality in a variety of ways. Meditation helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can often be the cause of poor sleep.

Guided meditations can help the listener to relax their body and mind and create a sense of calmness and peace, allowing them to drift off to sleep more easily. Additionally, some meditation podcasts feature bedtime stories, which can be calming and help to lull the listener into a peaceful sleep.

Furthermore, podcasts that feature sleep music can also be beneficial in aiding relaxation and providing a soothing backdrop to drift off to sleep.

9. Decreased Anxiety

This one is huge if you haven’t picked up on it. The best meditation guides can, potentially, decrease anxiety over time. We live in stressful times folks.

Listening to meditation podcasts can help decrease anxiety by providing guidance, relaxation, and self-awareness. Research suggests that meditation and everyday mindfulness can have positive physical and mental impacts, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Additionally, meditation has been linked to decreasing blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart, and promoting emotional health. As we referenced above. Anxiety, blood pressure, medication, meditation… it’s all tied together.

Podcasts can be particularly helpful in providing guided meditations and practices in short, manageable intervals that can be used during a lunch break, first thing in the morning, or before bed.

10. Increased Happiness

Listening to meditation podcasts can be an effective way to increase happiness by providing strategies for reducing stress, anxiety, and negative thinking. It can also help develop emotional intelligence, gratitude, resilience, and self-awareness.

Through guided meditations and mindfulness practices, listeners can learn how to create rituals that feed their well-being and prioritize their happiness.

Podcasts like Ten Percent Happier by Dan Harris provide helpful summaries of episodes and offer guidance on developing a calmer, more meaningful life that is based on the science of compassion, gratitude, and awe. In short, meditation podcasts can be a valuable tool for increasing happiness by connecting us to our inner strength and helping us to be more mindful and aware of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

What to consider when choosing the right podcast for you?

1. Meditation Podcast: Target audience

When choosing the right meditation podcast for your target audience, there are several factors to consider.

First, you should think about the format of the podcast. There are guided meditations, interviews with experts, explanations of the science behind meditation, and more.

Secondly, consider the topics covered by the podcast. Some may focus on relaxation, anxiety, sleep, motivation, and other wellness-related topics. Finally, the reviews should be taken into account to ensure a high-quality podcast.

By comparing and contrasting the different formats, topics, and reviews, you can find the perfect meditation podcast to resonate with your target audience. This will ensure they have access to helpful tips and guidance to start and sustain their practice.

2. Meditation Podcast: Format

When choosing a meditation podcast format, there are several factors to consider.

First, you should think about what type of format you prefer – do you want a guided meditation, a discussion on the science behind meditation, interviews with experts, or something else?

Second, you should think about the subject matter – do you want a podcast that focuses on a specific topic (such as parenting, creativity, or sleep), or one that covers a broad range of topics?

Lastly, it is important to consider the reviews of any podcast you are considering – make sure you read what others have to say about the podcast and its content before you decide. With these factors in mind, you can choose a meditation podcast format that resonates with your target audience and helps you reach your goals.

3. Meditation Podcast: Content

When evaluating the content of a meditation podcast, it is important to consider the type of format, different topics discussed, and the guest speakers.

Different types of formats to consider include guided meditations, interviews with experts, explanations of the science behind meditation, and more. The topics discussed should vary, from parenting to creative endeavors to gaining more sleep. It is also important to consider reviews or feedback from other listeners about the podcast.

Finally, it is beneficial to look for podcasts with inspirational quotes, guided meditations, and expert interviews on topics such as yoga, health, stress, and sleep. By considering these criteria when evaluating the content of a meditation podcast, you will be able to make an informed decision on which podcast is the best fit for you.

4. Meditation Podcast: Guided meditations

Meditation podcasts offer a variety of guided meditations that can be tailored to different needs and skill levels. The types of guided meditations found in these podcasts include:

1. Daily Meditations: These guided meditations, such as those featured in the Daily Meditation Podcast, focus on different styles and techniques to help manage stress, improve sleep, gain focus, and find clarity.

2. Sleep Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Happy Mind Guided Meditations podcast, are designed to help listeners relax and get the restful sleep they need.

3. Mindfulness Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Meditation Minis Podcast, are short and focused on helping listeners become more mindful and present.

4. Transformative Meditations: These meditations, such as those featured in the Guided Meditation Podcast, are designed to help listeners create a space for peace, healing, and transformation.

5. Meditation Podcast: Meditation technique

When choosing a meditation podcast based on its meditation technique, it’s important to consider the type of meditation it offers. Guided meditation podcasts are led by meditation and mindfulness experts and utilize affirmations, guided meditations, yoga, meditating together, and breathing techniques to help manage stress and anxiety.

For those new to meditation, podcasts offer a solid foundation to learn the ins and outs of how to properly practice and incorporate it into their daily routine. Other podcasts offer more specific types of meditation, such as interviews, quick inspiration, and self-compassion.

Whatever you choose, make sure it resonates with your goals and interests. Then, when it comes to technique, consider how long you have to spare and what time of day you prefer to practice meditation.

All of these factors will help you find a podcast that works best for you and your needs.

6. Meditation Podcast: Goals and strategies

When choosing a meditation podcast, it is important to consider your goals and the strategies needed to achieve them. For instance, if your goal is to learn the basics of meditation, podcasts like The Daily Meditation Podcast offer useful tips and guidance to help you become more familiar with the practice.

If you’re looking to reduce stress, anxiety, or depression, then programs such as The Meditation School Podcast and Raphael Reiter Podcaster provide meditative techniques, mindfulness exercises, and contemplation to help you relax and find inner peace.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more specific, like improving sleep or gaining focus, there are several podcasts that focus on these topics. For instance, Mary Meckley’s The Daily Meditation Podcast does daily guided meditations which focus on specific styles and techniques for managing stress, sleeping better, and finding clarity.

Additionally, there are podcasts that provide inspirational quotes, expert interviews, and other related topics to help you further your journey.

No matter what your goals, there is a meditation podcast out there that can help. Be sure to research each podcast carefully and find one that best fits with your personal needs and goals. Additionally, try different podcasts to find which ones work best for you and be willing to experiment until you find the right fit.

8. Meditation Podcast: Stress management

What are the features of a meditation podcast that help with stress management? [Expanded list and examples]

Meditation podcasts offer a variety of features that can help with stress management. These features can include guided meditations, affirmations, expert interviews, inspirational quotes, and breathing techniques.

For example, the Daily Meditation Podcast offers daily guided meditations that focus on different styles and techniques to help manage stress, sleep better, gain focus, and find clarity. The Untangle podcast offers experts and everyday people sharing their stories about how practicing mindfulness has changed their lives for the better.

The Meditation Minis podcast provides guided meditations that are typically around 10 minutes long to help soothe stress, overcome negative thinking, boost confidence, and improve overall well-being. Finally, the Meditation Oasis podcast offers longer episodes (over 50 minutes) that explore everyday stressors, such as anxiety and fear, and provide listeners with tools to help manage these stressors.

9. Meditation Podcast: Health benefits

What health benefits are offered by the meditation podcast genre? Meditation podcasts can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve moods and attitudes, increase clarity and concentration, and even help to achieve a better sleep routine, a calm state, and heightened awareness of oneself and one’s surroundings.

Additionally, these podcasts can offer support from experts on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more, allowing those who are new to meditation to learn the basics and helping more advanced meditators to work on specific health and wellness goals.

10. Meditation Podcast: Mindfulness practice

Meditation podcasts are an ideal tool for practicing mindfulness because they provide listeners with guidance, structure, and topics to focus on. Many meditation podcasts provide short, guided meditations that are perfect for those just starting out with a mindfulness practice.

Hosts often discuss different topics related to mindfulness, making it easier for listeners to apply the principles to everyday life. Additionally, some podcasts provide longer meditations and relaxing soundscapes, which can help listeners reach a deeper level of relaxation.

Finally, podcasts that focus on specific pieces of art or cultural talks can be beneficial for those wanting to explore mindfulness in a creative manner. All of these features make meditation podcasts suitable for mindfulness practice.

11. Meditation Podcast: Relaxation exercises

What relaxation exercises are available in meditation podcasts? Meditation podcasts can provide a range of relaxation exercises, including guided meditations, affirmations, yoga, breathing techniques, and more.

Depending on the podcast, exercises can range from five to 20 minutes in length, and cover topics such as stress reduction, negative thought elimination, self-confidence building, improved sleep, and mental focus. Popular exercises include the Meditation Minis podcast, the Meditation RX app, and the Effortless Meditation podcast.

All of these podcasts are designed to help you relax and reach a state of zen.

12. Meditation Podcast: Sleep benefits

Listening to a meditation podcast can be an effective way to help improve sleep. It has been proven to reduce anxiety, insomnia, and self-esteem issues, while providing soothing sleep meditations, bedtime stories, and relaxation techniques.

The podcasts offer a variety of options, including guided meditations, nap meditations, stories, music, and moments, all designed to help the listener relax and fall asleep faster.

Additionally, podcasts can help to reduce stress and racing thoughts by providing a calming and distracting soundscape, allowing the mind to slow down and enter a more peaceful state before bed.

13. Meditation Podcast: Visualization

When evaluating a meditation podcast’s visualization features, it is important to consider the type of visualizations provided, how often they are used, and the overall meditation goal.

For example, loving-kindness meditation (or meta) utilizes affirmations and visualizations to help practitioners reconnect with themselves, while other Brahma Viharas such as compassion and equanimity rely on visualizations of breathing techniques and grounding techniques.

Additionally, some meditation podcasts use visualizations to help practitioners move towards a deeper state of calmness, connection, and purpose, while others are designed to help with physical wellbeing and managing stress or anxiety. It is important to consider what type of visualization techniques are best suited to your needs and which will benefit you the most, as well as to consider the overall goal of the podcast.

14. Meditation Podcast: Affirmations

Affirmations are positive statements that are used to help you focus on a goal or desired outcome in order to bring it into reality. When it comes to meditation, affirmations are a helpful tool to help you stay focused and present, while also helping to set a positive and productive mindset. Affirmations can also help to create a positive feedback loop by enabling you to reflect on the progress that you have made. As such, affirmations are an important factor to consider when choosing a meditation podcast.

For instance, some meditation podcasts incorporate affirmations into the practice, helping to create an environment that is conducive to the desired goal. Additionally, affirmations can help to set the tone for the meditative practice, providing a sense of direction and assurance in the journey.

Affirmations also help to bring about a sense of acceptance, allowing you to be more open and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. Ultimately, affirmations are a powerful tool that can help to enhance the meditation experience, making it easier to achieve desired results.

15. Meditation Podcast: Self-compassion

Self-compassion is the practice of treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and warmth. It is an essential part of meditation and self-care, as it helps us to be more mindful of our thoughts and feelings and to practice acceptance of ourselves and our experiences.

Self-compassion is important because it helps us to maintain a positive mindset, to be more forgiving of ourselves and our mistakes, and to practice self-love. It helps to build resilience and gives us the strength to cope with difficult emotions and stressful situations. This is why self-compassion and mindfulness are such good companions in meditation podcasts.

By listening to self-compassion and mindfulness-based guided meditations, we can learn to be kinder to ourselves, to cultivate more self-care and acceptance, and to become more mindful of our thoughts and feelings. This in turn can help us to become more grounded and resilient in our everyday lives.

16. Meditation Podcast: Meaning and purpose

When evaluating a meditation podcast for meaning and purpose, it’s important to consider the format, topics discussed, and reviews. Different meditation podcasts offer different formats, such as guided meditations, interviews with experts, and explanations of the science behind meditation.

Additionally, the topics covered by the podcast should be considered. Some podcasts focus on helping busy people start and maintain their meditation practices while others explore the big questions of existence.

And then, lastly, reviews can provide insight into whether or not a podcast is worth the listen. A podcast with great reviews is more likely to provide meaningful and purposeful content.

17. Meditation Podcast: Body and emotions

The features of a meditation podcast that consider the body and emotions include short guided meditations, focusing on an emotion each week, tips and strategies to reduce stress and anxiety, and ways to improve focus and balance emotions.

Other features may include deep dives into certain emotions, ways to practice gratitude, contemplations of big questions of existence, mindfulness exercises and courses, and meditations for kids.

Additionally, podcasts may include longer episodes (over 50 minutes) that focus on changing behavior and developing better habits to protect from life’s stressors and energy drains.

18. Meditation Podcast: Creative practices

Meditation podcasts typically feature creative practices such as guided meditations, affirmations, yoga, breathing techniques, and meditating together. These creative practices can help manage stress and anxiety, improve physical wellbeing, and deepen one’s meditation practice. Other elements featured in meditation podcasts include interviews, speakers, and information on topics related to meditation and mindfulness.

19. Meditation Podcast: Mental health

When choosing a meditation podcast for mental health, it is important to consider the following: the podcast’s focus, the length of the meditations, the level of difficulty, the type of content presented, whether it is a guided or unguided meditation, the presenter’s experience and qualifications, the quality of the audio, and the ability to listen on various platforms.

Additionally, it is important to research the podcast’s sources to ensure that the content is reliable and trustworthy. With so many options available, it can be helpful to listen to a few different podcasts to find one that you enjoy.

20. Meditation Podcast: Social interaction

When evaluating a meditation podcast’s social interaction, it is important to consider the approach of the podcast, the topics discussed, and the availability of resources. For example, the US Christian meditation podcast promotes spiritual growth and transformation, while the Meditation Minis podcast focuses on calming stress and improving overall wellbeing.

It is also important to consider the format in which the podcast is presented, such as its length and frequency, as well as the platform it is available on. The US Christian meditation podcast has around 935 subscribers, with 2 episodes per week, and is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

On the other hand, the Meditation Minis podcast is shorter in length, with 10 minutes being the average time for each episode, and it is only available via Apple Podcasts. Ultimately, it is important to consider the podcast’s social interaction to ensure it is the right fit for you and your desired practice.

21. Meditation Podcast: Family and friends

When choosing a meditation podcast for family and friends, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure it is accessible to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Look for podcasts that provide clear guidance, along with tips and tricks for getting the most out of a meditation practice.

Additionally, look for podcasts that offer a variety of topics, such as yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Finally, consider podcasts that offer quick and simple structures and short meditations, so that everyone in the family can easily find the time to fit meditation into their day.

The 23 best meditation podcasts available today

1. Tara Brach Meditation Podcast

Features of Tara Brach’s meditation podcast include:

• Guided meditation blending ancient practice and modern psychology

• Buddhist dharma talks featuring deep, relevant wisdom

• Ideal for the spiritual explorer looking for guidance from an experienced mentor

• PhD in Clinical Psychology with years of meditation practice

• Self-compassion to relieve emotional suffering

• Widely adored around the globe

• Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, Stitcher, and TaraBrach.com

• Highly rated 4.8 stars on Apple Podcasts

Tara Brach’s podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today because she takes a unique approach to her podcast, blending Western psychology and Eastern spiritual practices. Her soothing voice guides listeners through an integrated meditation, melding modern psychology and ancient practice. Brach has a PhD in clinical psychology and years of meditation experience, making her an experienced mentor for the spiritual explorer.

Her podcast topics range from the heart to humility, giving listeners the opportunity to learn about self-compassion and relieve emotional suffering.

Additionally, Brach makes her podcasts available on popular streaming services, making it accessible to a wide audience. Overall, Tara Brach’s podcast offers an engaging and powerful meditation experience.

2. The Mindful Minute

The Mindful Minute is a popular meditation podcast that is designed to help busy people start and maintain a successful meditation practice. Hosted by experienced instructor Meryl Arnett, each episode consists of a short and simple guided meditation.

As a result, it is the perfect podcast for beginners who are still developing their concentration time. Additionally, Arnett drops new episodes each week focusing on how to live a life that is more mindful, easier and happier.

The Mindful Minute is popular because it provides a calming and accessible way to practice meditation. Arnett’s straightforward approach and simple instructions make the podcast approachable for all experience levels. Furthermore, its short duration makes it easy to fit into busy schedules and its wide availability across different platforms makes it easily accessible.

Overall, The Mindful Minute is a great resource for anyone looking to start a meditation practice or refresh their existing one. With its helpful guidance and approachable atmosphere, it is sure to help many people begin and sustain their meditation practice.

3. The Daily Meditation Podcast

The Daily Meditation Podcast is a great meditation podcast to listen to because it offers a variety of topics, such as letting go, mental health, and stress in our everyday lives, which makes the meditations relevant and helpful.

Mary Meckley, the host, is a meditation teacher who guides listeners through daily meditations in under ten minutes, making it easily accessible to fit into a busy schedule. Additionally, this podcast provides inspiration and motivation using research-proven strategies to help listeners live a happier life.

All of these features make The Daily Meditation Podcast a great podcast to listen to for those looking to improve their mindfulness.

4. Mindfulness in 8 Weeks: 20 Minutes a Day Program

The 20 Minutes a Day Program for mindfulness is a concise mindfulness program hosted by Michael Chaskalson. It spans eight weeks, with two separate streams. Stream One is the 40 Minutes a Day Program and Stream Two is the 20 Minutes a Day Program.

Each episode focuses on a different exercise, and aims to make the principles of Buddhism and mindfulness accessible to all of the listeners.

The episodes are approximately 30 minutes long and include a short meditation. This podcast is accompanied by a book of the same title, and can be purchased from Amazon.

5. Ten Percent Happier

Ten Percent Happier is a great place to start if you’re new to meditation, because it’s hosted by Dan Harris, an ABC news anchor who used to be a skeptic. He talks about how he used to think meditation was for people who were “too hippie-dippy,” but how it has changed his life for the better.

Dan’s podcast is also good for skeptics because he doesn’t try to convince you that you need to believe anything in order to meditate. He just talks about what it’s like for him and what he’s learned from his experiences with meditation.

There’s also a 5 minute summary edition of the Ten Percent Happier pod.

This podcast is something we’ve talked about several times in the past because we love it so much.

6. Exploring Awareness

Exploring Awareness is a popular meditation podcast hosted by Lisa Barry and Frank Anderson that seeks to explore ways to approach and deal with life through mindful practices. Through lively discussions, the podcast helps to provide another perspective on life, allowing the listener to authentically experience life without feeling the weight of overwhelming stress.

The podcast seeks to foster an atmosphere of peace, love, and generosity — things that can be hard to come by in everyday life. It also includes self-guided retreats for rest and restoration, stories that spark wonder, and news about mindfulness courses designed inclusively with autism communities.

Ultimately, Exploring Awareness is popular because it gives listeners the opportunity to take a break from reality and find peace and joy in the most unlikely of places.

7. The Meditation Podcast

The Meditation Podcast is a popular podcast that provides guided meditations, binaural beats, mindfulness techniques, and interviews with experts. It is aimed at helping listeners to recenter and reconnect with their authentic selves.

The intent of these meditations is to reduce stress, boost confidence, and help listeners improve their overall well-being. With guided meditations of about 10 minutes long, this podcast is great for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to meditate.

It is also accessible to those who are new to meditation, as the podcasts provide tools and strategies to guide them through the process. The podcast also provides meditations for those who are more experienced in the practice, including meditations for creatives and discussions on current events.

Ultimately, The Meditation Podcast helps listeners to relax, refocus, and be more mindful in their everyday lives.

8. I Should Be Meditating

What makes I Should Be Meditating a good meditation podcast?

I Should Be Meditating is the perfect podcast for those looking for an approachable way to incorporate meditation into their life. Host Alan Klima speaks openly about his own struggles to maintain a consistent practice, which can be very relatable and validating to listeners.

With decades of experience behind him, Klima imparts his knowledge and offers guided meditations to help listeners find what works best for them.

Additionally, his laid-back teaching style makes it easy to slow down and focus on the present. If you’re looking for a way to practice meditation more regularly, I Should Be Meditating should be your go-to podcast.

Listen on Podbean

9. Audio Dharma

Audio Dharma is a Buddhism-heavy podcast that illuminates aspects of classic Buddha teachings. Led by various speakers from the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, California, the podcast features Gil Fronsdal, a Buddhist practitioner with a Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies from Stanford.

Episodes range from 12 to 30 minutes and discuss the Hinduism law of inherent and eternal law of reality that governs cosmic law.

The podcast is a great meditation resource for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. It provides pragmatic guidance through retellings of the lives of the Buddha and his disciples, as well as wisdom and heart practices.

Furthermore, it provides an insightful look at the Buddhist teachings and philosophy. The shorter episodes make it accessible and easy to incorporate into a person’s daily routine. All of these features make Audio Dharma a great meditation podcast.

10. The Astral Hustle

The Astral Hustle, hosted by Cory Allen, is a popular meditation podcast that provides advice and guidance to listeners who are looking to connect with their Higher Self and manifest love within themselves.

By answering listener’s questions, the podcast uncovers the limitations of ego identity and encourages us to turn inward and look for deeper self-awareness and healing. Through guided meditations, sound healing, and mindful exercises, the podcast encourages us to find our true potential and reclaim the joy and love that is within us all.

The Astral Hustle is a unique podcast that provides listeners with a unique insight into the power of meditation and how it can be used to unlock our innermost being. With its blend of spiritual exploration and self-reflection, the podcast is a great resource for anyone looking to tap into their innermost power and find peace and clarity.

11. The OneMind Meditation Podcast

The OneMind Meditation Podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today due to its accessible and engaging format. Host Morgan Dix interviews meditation teachers and everyday practitioners, making the podcast relatable for all.

Additionally, episodes offer equal parts guided meditations and expert interviews, making it suitable for both novice and experienced listeners.

With its 4.9 star rating on Apple Podcasts and its availability on MindfulnessPlus.org, the OneMind Meditation Podcast is a great resource for anyone looking to make mindfulness and meditation a part of their lifestyle.

12. On Being

The On Being meditation podcast focuses on exploring the human experience through topics such as spiritual inquiry, science, social healing, and the arts.

Host Krista Tippett interviews prominent poets, philosophers, and spiritual and social leaders about their passions. Each episode dives deep into a human topic and asks what it means to us as a society, with guests talking about their own meditation, contemplation, and mindfulness practices.

Moreover, the podcast features big, world-altering ideas like those of a Black queer Buddhist teacher who espouses a socially radical approach to Buddhist practices.

The podcast is available on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, and OnBeing.org, and has won the prestigious Peabody Award.

13. Rethinking With Adam Grant

The podcast Rethinking With Adam Grant features interviews with high-powered mindful leaders, such as Satya Nadella, exploring topics related to remote work, well-being as key to productivity, refraining from weekend emails, and how managers can show deep care for employees.

The podcast also discusses personal and systemic shifts needed in order to truly attend to what is described as the “unprecedented tripwires and trapdoors” we now face as a species.

Additional topics explored include why it matters that we read differently on a page versus on a screen, and the real productivity cost of believing our brains can multitask.

14. Speaking of Psychology

Far too many people suffer from mental illness in this country. But is that really hard to believe?

We live in chaotic times. And while anxiety surrounding the pandemic has waned somewhat, there are plenty of other daily stressors in our lives from the economy, various wars, famines, and general adulting that make life stressful. A quarter of our population struggles with anxiety alone.

Meditation can help with that.

Dr. Richard Davidson, in this episode, how the practice of mediation (a practice that dates back literally thousands of years) can help quiet our modern brains. While this episode is great, the entire podcast is worth listening to.

15. The Overwhelmed Brain

The Overwhelmed Brain meditation podcast is a popular choice for listeners looking to gain inner peace and clarity in their everyday lives. Hosted by Paul Colaianni, the podcast focuses on exploring everyday stressors such as anxiety, fear, and relationship problems.

By examining these issues, the podcast offers a range of tools to help listeners change their behavior, make better decisions, and adopt better habits. The episodes in the podcast tend to be on the longer side, more than 50 minutes, so make sure you have the time to listen carefully to gain the full benefit.

The ultimate goal of the podcast is to empower listeners to live a life that is protected from the things that can overwhelm them and sap their energy.

With guided meditations from the podcast, listeners can tune in, listen, and then use the techniques in their own lives. By helping listeners to process information and think clearly, the Overwhelmed Brain meditation podcast is an effective way to reduce stress.

16. Mind Minis Podcast

The Mind Minis Podcast is one of the best meditation podcasts available today due to its high 4.8 star rating from more than 3,200 Apple Podcasts listeners and its ability to help reduce stress and anxiety, boost confidence, and remove negative thoughts in as little as 5 minutes.

Host Chel Hamilton is a hypnotherapist who leads listeners in quick guided meditations using a variety of techniques and topics. This is ideal for busy people or beginners who are just learning about meditation, as the episodes are only 5-12 minutes long and conveniently fit into any time of day. The goal is to provide a mindful break that is accessible and easy to follow.

Additionally, the podcast has been recognized as an award-winner and is available on multiple streaming services, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

All of these traits make the Mind Minis Podcast an excellent choice for helping listeners cultivate a healthier mindset.

17. The Rubin Museum: Mindfulness Meditation Podcast

The Rubin Museum’s mindfulness meditation podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by the Rubin Museum of Art located in New York City.

It features prominent meditation teachers from the local area who provide talks and guided meditations centered around a specific piece of art from the museum’s collection. This unique concept of combining art and meditation is popular amongst meditation enthusiasts of all levels.

It allows the listener to gain insight and motivation from the discussion, while at the same time receiving a guided meditation experience. Additionally, the podcast has earned a 4.4 star rating on Apple Podcasts and is available across multiple streaming platforms.

This allows the listener to access the podcast and its teachings no matter where they are, creating an interactive experience that is convenient and engaging.

18. The Daily Stoic

We’ve mentioned Ryan Holiday’s podcast, The Daily Stoic, before, but it’s so good that we want to talk about it again.

The Daily Stoic is great for people who are short on time, because most episodes are well under 10 minutes. It’s also a great way to start your day—combine it with journaling and meditation and you can start your day off right.

We love this podcast because it offers practical advice on how to live a more Stoic life—and it’s easy to listen to while you’re going about your daily routine.

19. The Morning Ritual

As a podcast listener, I’ve always been a fan of the Morning Ritual Podcast. It’s great for when you’re on your way to work and need some inspiration for a great day ahead (and it’s short enough to be digestible over breakfast).

Lilly Balch hosts this little gem of a podcast. She walks the listener through a short meditation on the stressors of modern life. How to get out of our heads, stop over thinking, monitoring our breathwork and more are just some of the subjects covered.

There is also the occasional interview peppered in to give the show even more value. It’s one of the best meditation podcasts you can find in the stack.

20. Mindful in Minutes

Each week yoga instructor Kelly Smith guides listeners through a short mediation on all sorts of different topics that plague the modern mind. And that they are short and weekly is great because life goes by quickly and sometimes you can feel guilty for missing a daily mediation.

You see, when we’re stressed out or feeling anxious, our minds are racing and we can’t slow down. Meditation allows us to focus on our breath, which helps us get rid of those pesky negative thoughts so we can relax and be present in the moment. The best part? It only takes five minutes!

That’s why I love the Mindful in Minutes podcast: they’ve got all kinds of quick tips for how to meditate anywhere and anytime.

21. Untangle

This show is all about showing the success of mindfulness. It’s sort of your mindfulness coach that keeps you going when your practice is starting to falter.

Sometimes our minds can seem like the proverbial gordian knot. We just don’t know what to do, we’re thinking too much and too quickly. It can seem an impossible task to quiet the mind, but the doctors (or as they say “experts” in a tongue and cheek manner), and regular people show us it isn’t.

So listen to this podcast when you feel like meditation isn’t possible for you. It is.

22. Mindfulness Mode

Bruce Langford brings us this useful podcast. Mindfulness Mode is all about how the practice of mindfulness can better our lives.

He brings on experts in their fields, as well as self-taught experts, to discuss a wide variety of topics that center around bettering our existence. How downsizing our living space can make our lives easier. I mean, look at the tiny house movement.

Mastering one’s mindset, frugality, and bettering your sex life with mediation all make an appearance. It’s a great mediation podcast even if mediation isn’t always the topic at hand. Awareness is, and they are very close cousins.

23. Mindfulness For Beginners

Mindfulness is the most popular, studied, and practiced form of meditation. But getting into the practice can be difficult. Most people think mediation means emptying one’s mind, and that’s just not the case.

That voice in your head is never going to shut up, it’s just a matter of the way we listen to it. Do we let it consume us, or do we let the thoughts pass like clouds? Mindfulness is the latter. Being aware, but not being consumed.

This podcast is aimed at beginners who are just picking up the basics and Shaun Donaghy does a great job walking us through mindfulness. Excellent mediation podcast.

FAQ

What is the best meditation podcast?

When it comes to the best meditation podcasts, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. If you’re looking for a great overall meditation podcast, Natural Meditation is an excellent choice.

For busy people, Meditation Minis is perfect for squeezing in a few minutes of down time. If self-compassion is your goal, Tara Brach Podcast is a great option.

You really have to pick your modality. And, experiment. That’s the best way to find what works for you.

Skeptics may enjoy 10 Percent Happier, while beginners should try The Mindful Minute. Creatives might appreciate the Rubin Museum Mindfulness Meditation Podcast, and those looking for a personal connection should check out I Should Be Meditating.

On Being, Untangle, and Mindfulness are great podcasts for those who want to learn more about meditation, while Peace Out and Get Sleepy offer specialized content for kids and those winding down for the night.

For quick inspiration, Radio Headspace and Wake Me Up: Morning Meditation and Motivation are excellent options. Finally, Mindful Mama is an excellent resource for parents. With so many choices available, it’s easy to find the perfect meditation podcast for your needs.

What are The Best Mindful Podcasts?

That’s a subjective question since mindfulness is the most widely produced and widely studied form of meditation. From western perspectives like that of Dr. Herbert Benson’s The Relaxation Response, to that of the Dalai Lama himself, it’s kind of the same thing. So that’s such a broad question that several podcasts are going to touch on this.

They won’t compete for the bets mindfulness podcast in theory, since each is like a fingerprint, but you just have to find what works for you.

But do not fret dear reader, you will find what works for you.

There are a lot of ways to relax and calm your mind, but the best mindfulness podcasts will help you develop the habit such that you can help yourself in your practice.

Meditation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even pain. There are many different types of meditation, so there’s sure to be a podcast that fits your needs.

What topics are covered in meditation podcasts?

Meditation podcasts cover a variety of topics. For example:

• guided meditations
• inspirational quotes
• expert interviews on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, relaxation, anxiety, sleep whispers, whispering, stress relief, sleep aid, relaxation, SW podcast, insomnia, autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR)
• Tibetan Buddhism
• science
• imagination
• Buddhism
• secular, analytic meditation
• mindfulness
• death
• relationships
• depression
• mind techniques
• anxiety
• fear
• contemplation of nature
• authenticity
• breathwork
• boundaries
• joy
• impermanence
• rebirth
• self help
• Dalai Lama
• self-acceptance
• refuge
• LGBTQ concerns
• spiritual practice
• loving-kindness meditation.

Are you out of breath? I am just reading that. But meditation is such a broad subject, it literally encompasses every aspect of human existence. If you invite it into your life.

How do meditation podcasts help induce relaxation?

Meditation podcasts can be a great way to induce relaxation by providing helpful tips and guidance for newcomers to meditation, as well as offering support from experts with experience guiding people through meditation.

They also help to make meditation easier by providing guided meditations, inspirational quotes, and interviews on topics related to yoga, health, stress, sleep, and more. Additionally, podcasts can provide useful information on how to properly practice breathing techniques or how to ground oneself in order to manage stress and anxiety.

Ultimately, meditation podcasts can be a great resource for those looking for a healthy dose of rest and relief.

Are there guided meditations available in meditation podcasts?

Yes, there are guided meditations available in meditation podcasts. These guided meditations are typically around 10 minutes long and can cover various topics such as reducing stress, improving confidence, and improving well-being.

The most popular meditation podcasts often offer guided meditations as well as conversations with experts and interviews with influential authors.

What type of meditation techniques are taught in meditation podcasts?

Meditation podcasts offer various types of meditation techniques for listeners to practice. Guided meditations are the most common type and involve a teacher or practitioner providing instructions to help the listener enter a meditative state.

Other types of media, such as music or photographs, can also be used as a form of mindfulness. Additionally, interviews, affirmations, yoga, breathing exercises, and group meditations may also be taught in meditation podcasts.

These techniques are designed to help listeners reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, increase clarity and concentration, and achieve better sleep.

Are there any meditation podcasts for beginners?

Yes, there are meditation podcasts for beginners. For example, Mindfulness for Beginners is hosted by Shaun Donaghy and is perfect for those just starting out in meditation.

The Mindfulness in Eight Weeks podcast is another great option, with two versions available – one that requires 40 minutes a day and one that requires 20 minutes a day – and provides an eight-week program to help get you started.

The Mindfulness Meditation Podcast with Danny Ford is another great option, with longer episodes that are best suited for those with more time to dedicate to meditation. Finally, The Rubin Museum: Mindfulness Meditation Podcast provides guided meditations focusing on a specific piece of art, making it perfect for anyone looking to connect with their creative side as they meditate.

Are there any mindfulness exercises available in meditation podcasts?

Yes, there are several mindfulness exercises available in meditation podcasts. Examples of these podcasts include Mindfulness for Beginners, Mindfulness in Eight Weeks, and Mindfulness Meditation Podcast. These podcasts provide guided meditations, exercises, and explore general topics around mindfulness. Additionally, some of these podcasts are accompanied by books, such as Mindfulness in Eight Weeks, which can be purchased from Amazon.

How often are new episodes of meditation podcasts released?

The Daily Meditation Podcast releases new episodes every day, while The Mindful Minute releases new episodes weekly. While I prefer the daily episodes for my routine, both podcasts are perfect for beginners, offering short and simple guided meditations.

The Mindfulness Meditation Podcast is released weekly and offers 30-40 minute episodes featuring an introductory discussion, recorded meditation practice, and featured well-known names and teachers in meditation.

Are there any meditation podcasts for children?

Are there any meditation podcasts for children? Yes, there are several podcasts specifically designed for children that offer guided meditations and short stories to help them relax and find calm. For example, the Peace Out podcast features short stories that guide kids through breathing and visualization exercises.

Another great option is the JOY Factor podcast, which offers varying topics and expert advice. Lastly, there is the Wake Me Up podcast which offers motivations, routines and short meditations. No matter what the child’s personal meditation goals are, there is sure to be something on these podcasts that can help.

Are there any meditation podcasts that focus on mental health?

Yes, there are several meditation podcasts that focus on mental health. For example, the Happy Mind Guided Meditations podcast offers a variety of meditations to help people feel more energetic, mentally sharp, mindful, and happy, while the Mindful in Minutes podcast is perfect for those struggling with anxiety, insomnia, or self-esteem.

Other podcasts include Untangle, Tara Brach, The Anxiety Coaches, Mindfulness Mode, The Dark Place, The Anxiety Slayer, and Meditation Minis, which each offer unique approaches to helping people manage their mental health.

To Wrap Up Meditation Podcasts

2023 and beyond is going to be about taking a chaotic world and making it manageable. Nobody knows what stressors everyone may be dealing with, but meditation podcasts are a tool in everyone’s toolbox.

Put those earbuds in or headphones on and hit play on one of these fantastic podcasts.

If you add these podcasts to your normal rotation, it’d be hard not to find a benefit. If we’ve missed your favorite mediation podcast, let us know on twitter. I know… I know… Twitter. But we’ll figure it out.

Cheers to a productive 2023 and beyond. Namaste.

The post 23 Best Meditation Podcasts For Remarkable Results in 2023 appeared first on Discover the Best Podcasts | Discover Pods.

Afterall, like anything else, there aren’t really any shortcuts to mastery, so practice makes… well, not perfect, but helps with the journey towards inner peace, tranquilly, and success.

Which begs the question.

Who is the Stoic Philosopher?

The stoic philosopher is anyone, professional or everyday person who wishes to better themselves and gain a sense of self mastery through the regular practice of stoic philosophy. In short, anyone can be the stoic philosopher.

Some of the most famous stoics came from all walks of life. Epictetus, was born a slave in the Roman Empire, and went on to become one the most ardent practitioners of stoicism.

Marcus Aurelius on the other hand, was, at one time, a Roman emperor. So, you see it can run the gamut as to who the stoic philosopher is.

Modern stoicism, can be less academic and more actionable for the average person. That was the mission of The Daily Stoic (Ryan Holiday, 2016) with his book and associated podcasts.

So if we know who the stoic philosopher was and can be…

What is modern stoic philosophy? Is Stoicism a religion?

Modern stoic philosophy is based on a set of precepts that help create self mastery, and move one’s life in a positive direction. It’s not a religion, but a set of principles for daily living.

There are no punishments for getting it wrong other than you may not feel so great and could develop less than ideal habits.

One of the most famous stoic philosophy quotes comes from Meditations (Marcus Aurelius, 2008):

“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

And to be clear, that’s from the 2008 translation, he didn’t write it in 2008. So, the crux of the philosophy is to create better thoughts. Create better thoughts and you’ll create better habits. Better habits get you better results, and better results get you more peace of mind.

Sounds like a pretty good deal, but the catch? The stoic philosopher must put those ideas into practice. Which, is where this list of podcasts comes in.

As we know by now, podcasts are a great way to visit ideas in depth, and without everyone around you necessarily knowing what you’re listening to. It’s an individual practice for the thoughts inside an individual mind.

So let’s get into what these stoic philosophers were trying to share with us through the modern advent of the podcast.

The Best Podcasts for the Stoic Philosopher

Now, I admit, “best” is something of a loaded, subjective term. Especially when it comes to philosophy. Considering the whole field hasn’t agreed on a definition of “truth,” in the last couple thousand years, your mileage may vary.

But these are some of our favorite podcasts. Some of which are more academic or instructive than others. Some are focused on putting the practice into action without the listener having to know the basis of the underlying philosophy.

Both approaches have a ton of merit and both have tremendous value. So take what you like and apply it to your own life to be the stoic philosopher for the modern age.

The Street Stoic

I absolutely love the fusion of ideas through different artistic mediums. I mean you can pick up a lot from old stoicism books, but having the same ideas expressed through a new art form is an absolute delight.

It’s about accessibility.

In this podcast, hosted by Dramos, stoic ideas are seen through the lens of hip hop lyrics. It shows how much has changed from the time of ancient Greece, and just how little has changed simultaneously.

This is a podcast we are going to do a spotlight on in the future. Without question. I can’t wait to see more of what they produce.

The Daily Stoic

You can’t have a list of stoic philosophy podcasts without talking about Ryan Holiday and what he’s done for the general awareness of the practice.

At this point, if you’re not aware of the podcast, as someone who majored in philosophy, I’m bummed out, but that’s okay. You can go subscribe right now.

The format of the show is easy to digest. Every day there is a new lesson to ponder, so I like to do this right after I get up, while the coffee is brewing. Something like that, because, generally, they are less than 10 minutes in length.

Perfect for a bite sized lesson of early stoa, middle stoa, or late stoa. Throw in some other greek philosophy for good measure, and you’ve got something to bring down your anxiety and get you out of daily stressors.

There are also Q&A shows that allow listeners of the show to submit their questions and interviews with modern stoic philosophers, or just some interesting people discussing their practice.

It’s where I’d start if I knew nothing about stoicism and wanted to dip my toes in the water.

Gratitude Through Hard Times

Think there have been some hard times lately?

Over 200 episodes and counting this podcast features host (and philosopher) Chris Schembra facilitating discussions that blend ancient (or classic) philosophy with science to help people find gratitude when it seems like everything around them sucks.

And for the past several years it has seemed like everything around us has sucked. It is messing with our collective psyche. Finding gratitude even when everything seems awful helps restore balance. It’s a very interesting concept and there are now hundreds of episodes to explore.

As an aside, this podcast sprang out of his best selling book of the same name. It was a fantastic read before bed and coupled nicely with starting the day with a dose of Ryan Holliday.

Subscribe and start the journey.

Cafe Truth

Remember in the intro when I said that stoicism beliefs are more about the practice and the journey than the destination?

Well that’s what this podcast is about. Rather than being directly instructive, hosts Kevin and Florian have discussions about how to navigate the waters of life.

It turns out there’s more commonality in our problems than we think. Trying to find your way in the world today takes everything you got… wait, where have I heard that. But that’s what you have to do.

So this is a very entertaining and thought provoking look at being a better person in a stressful, rapidly changing world, where it seems like every day you wake up to some more bad news.

This is, without a doubt, one to put on your podcast app of choice.

Practical Stoicism

Sometimes the stoic philosopher needs some more academic direction.

This podcast is designed to ease the listener into stoic philosophy, even if they’ve never really heard of it before. The show is now well over 100 episodes, so there is something worth listening to whenever you have the time.

The format of the show is usually host Tanner leading us, the listeners, through a particular mediation from Marcus Aurelius or quote from something like the Discourses of Epictetus (Epictetus, 1535), and then having a short discussion on that quote. It makes the episodes roughly 15 minutes in length, so, like the Daily Stoic, it is pretty easy to fit into even the busiest schedule.

There are also longer episodes, around and hour, that are a discussion with an author discussing their book, but the guests are always relevant to the show.

If you’re just starting out, this is an engaging host with an entertaining and informative outlook on specific chunks of the stoic philosophy.

Well worth a listen if you’re trying to learn the nuts and bolts.

Stoic Wellbeing

People don’t like change. An object at rest tends to want to stay at rest. The problem is that to halt change, one would need to control every variable in the universe, and let’s say to do so would be, at best, a stretch.

Thus when we resist change, when we don’t actively adapt, and control only what we can control, it creates an enormous amount of stress and angst. This podcast sets out to alleviate that stress. To mute that angst. To get the listener comfortable with change.

Sarah Mikutel has created a self-help podcast that uses personality trait tools and stoic philosophy to get people to actually change their lives.

The approach is soft, anecdotal, backed up with facts, is very listenable. Episodes are about a half hour long and focus on mastering emotions, effecting change, and setting goals that can be kept. In short, putting stoicism into practice.

It is always good to know the philosophy, but to put it into action makes you the stoic philosopher you want to be.

The Stoic Coffee Break

This is another great example of a podcast focused on making real life changes through the implementation of stoic principles. It is a weekly meditation that’s fairly short, around 10 minutes, that is great for kickstarting your day.

From meditations on cognitive dissonance, reframing our beliefs, and how to be more self-confident, these bite sized meditations are designed to get the listener unstuck. To get them moving their lives in a positive direction.

And who can’t benefit from 10 minutes like that?

The show also features the occasional interview in addition to the meditation. Those shows are interesting because getting an outside perspective always benefits inward reflection.

At this point there are more than 230 episodes, so take a listen and maybe move your life forward a bit in 2023. After all, it’s all about showing up and pushing through our personal challenges with what we can control.

The Gen Z Stoic

This is a new podcast, having only released three episodes thus far, but they’ve come out of the gate storming.

I think of myself as young, but I’m, what’s the term… old. I’m one of those geriatric millennials that were a fad a while back. So it warms my old heart to see the next generation picking up the torch and doing so forcefully.

See, my generation spans analog and digital. We listened to cassettes and were the first generation really on the internet. Starting with AOL for crying out loud. We enjoyed a time when life was a little slower. You weren’t constantly bombarded with your phone pinging you. You could plan to show up somewhere and everyone would have to be on the same page.

Gen Z isn’t like that. They grew up (and are growing up) in an entirely digital age. They were born into the constant bombardment of distraction.

So to see Wren and Mateo practice a “new wave of contemporary stoicism” is exciting. You can bet your bottom bitcoin I’m subscribed to this one.

The Strong Stoic

What I really love about the Strong Stoic is that host Brandon Tumblin is practicing philosophy. He’s taking on hard questions and pondering them. Wrestling with them. Struggling with them.

That’s an admirable trait and it makes his podcast accessible to the average listener looking to get into stoic philosophy.

Recently he had a response, from a philosophical perspective, of Ye praising Hitler. It was one of the most interesting episodes of his show thus far.

The latest series, as of this writing, is Brandon struggling with the concept of grace through a stoic lens. It’s a fascinating, and dense, look at a topic that doesn’t get enough attention outside of strictly religious circles where that concept is, well, not always applied in the most authentic way.

The One Off Podcast Episodes

There are some one off episodes on the subject worth mentioning. These single episodes are a great place to start if you have no idea where to begin.

Ten Percent Happier – Stoicism 101

Dan Harris was an anchor on Good Morning America and a field reporter who had done quite a bit of work during the war on terror. He saw some things. As a result, he started self medicating, and eventually had a full blown panic attack on live TV.

He’s been very open about this which has been great for the mental health community. Eventually he started the ten percent happier project that morphed into an entire movement. So, he left ABC to work on it.

In this episode, he has on Nancy Sherman to discuss how stoicism is so much more than contemporary life hacks and it deserves a lot more reverence than it may be currently getting.

Fascinating look at another excellent perspective on this ancient wisdom.

Modern Wisdom

On episode #497 (wow), Donald Robertson, a historian of stoicism takes a deep dive into Marcus Aurelius, and has some pretty unorthodox views to share.

Because he’s a historian, Donald takes a different perspective on the philosophy as well as the man. Which is a refreshing change of pace.

We’re used to hearing about what Marcus believed, but not necessarily how he got there. Did he plagiarize some work? Maybe. Did he take psychedelics on occasion? Perhaps. Was emperor Nero really that batty?

But he also talks about how the stoics would approach certain problems. Like how Marcus learned to deal with the fame of being emperor. Sometimes that sort of thing will go to your head (see Nero above).

It’s a very well done interview and discussion of something we all thought we knew. It’s nice to get new perspectives.

Putting Stoicism into Practice

Memento mori. Right? Life is all about finding meaning and purpose, but we are so often distracted and bombarded by distraction. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find the signal in the noise, and it is stressing us out.

Like Marcus learning to deal with fame, we can apply the same principles to what is plaguing our lives on a daily basis. Hopefully these podcasts will help to find the signal of our purpose within the noise of our everyday lives.

The post 11 Best Podcasts for the Stoic Philosopher to Practice appeared first on Discover the Best Podcasts | Discover Pods.