Zen Commuter

In today’s episode of Zen Commuter, we take our practice beyond four walls and into the wide embrace of nature. Meditating outside offers a unique opportunity to reconnect—not just with the present moment, but with the world around us. Whether it’s a quiet park bench, a forest trail, or your own backyard, outdoor meditation invites you to soften your senses, anchor your awareness, and find peace in the rhythm of the natural world. I’ll share how to begin, what to notice, and how to embrace whatever sounds or sensations arise—yes, even the distractions.

Inside all of us are many voices. Some uplift us, others cast doubt. How can we tell which one is our true guide? Today’s episode helps you learn to distinguish the voice of your higher self from the more reactive inner dialogue. Through body awareness and subtle cues in language, we’ll uncover how to better trust your wisest self. What we’ll cover: Words like “should,” “can’t,” and “always” as markers of inner chatter How your body responds differently to truth vs. fear Meditation as a tuning fork to clarify inner guidance THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this conversation inspired you, please share it using the social media buttons on the page. Be a part of the show!

Many people feel like they don’t have time to meditate, especially during a busy commute. But what if that commute became part of your practice? Today on Zen Commuter, we’ll talk about how to use your car as a space for mindfulness. While safety must always be the priority, there are ways to incorporate stillness and presence even while driving. Whether you’re parked or driving, there are ways to become still. What we’ll cover: When it’s safe and not safe to engage in meditative techniques while in your car 3 important things to note when meditating in your parked car Turning red lights and traffic into mindfulness bells THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this conversation inspired you, please share it using the social media buttons on the page. Be a part of the show!

In today’s inspiring episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lillian Savoie, intuitive healer, spiritual teacher, and author of Fill Your Soul the Feminine Way. Together, we explore how tuning into divine feminine energy can help you move from striving to flowing—creating a more peaceful, purposeful life. Lillian shares her journey from corporate stress to spiritual awakening, and how learning to trust her intuition transformed her life. We dive into the wisdom behind balancing masculine and feminine energies, the importance of daily rituals, and how presence and intention can open the door to joy and fulfillment. Whether you're new to energy work or simply curious about a different approach to self-growth, Lillian offers grounded, heartfelt insights that will leave you feeling more connected—to yourself, and to something greater. Topics Discussed: What it means to “fill your soul the feminine way” Letting go of hustle culture and embracing divine flow Lillian’s story of awakening and spiritual surrend

On today’s episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Lane Igoudin, author of A Family, Maybe—a beautiful, nuanced memoir about identity, belonging, and the shape-shifting nature of family. Our conversation moves between personal reflection and practical insight, touching on Lane’s writing process, the complexities of chosen family, and how Zen meditation helped guide him through periods of uncertainty and transformation. This isn’t just a conversation about a book—it’s about learning how to sit with life’s open questions with presence, curiosity, and grace. What You’ll Learn: How Zen practice supported Lane’s journey through personal and familial exploration Why uncertainty can be fertile ground for growth How writing itself can be a meditative and healing act Ways to bring awareness and stillness into the storytelling of your own life Resources: Learn more about Lane Igoudan and A Family, Maybe - https://laneigoudin.com/ Looking to deepen your meditation practice? Visit the Zen Commuter website

On Day Five of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Making Life Your Practice" by Ken McLeod—a deeply practical and inspiring reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen on the cushion. This piece reframes our everyday experiences—both the mundane and the messy—as the very terrain of awakening. In today’s episode, I reflect on McLeod’s powerful encouragement to drop the divide between “practice time” and “real life.” Whether we’re standing in line, facing conflict, or simply washing dishes, every moment holds the potential to wake us up. When we bring awareness, presence, and intention to our daily activities, life itself becomes our path. What You’ll Learn: How to dissolve the boundary between meditation and daily life Why ordinary moments can be powerful vehicles for transformation How to bring clarity, compassion, and mindfulness into everything you do Resources: Read the full article at Tricycle.org Looking to deepen your meditation practice? Visit the Zen Commuter website for

On Day Four of our special Tricycle Week, we explore the article "Knowing the Three Fortresses," a compelling piece that offers a fresh lens on inner resilience and spiritual grounding. Drawing from traditional Buddhist teachings, the article introduces the concept of the Three Fortresses—Powerful antidotes to distraction, confusion, and self-doubt on the path of practice. In today’s episode, I share reflections on how these fortresses serve as both refuge and rallying point—helping us meet the challenges of daily life with steadiness, awareness, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating a tough moment or simply trying to stay centered in your practice, this teaching will give you tools to return home to yourself. What You’ll Learn: What the Three Fortresses are and how they can support your spiritual path How to apply their wisdom to your everyday life Why awareness, retreat, and reliance on the Dharma are vital in uncertain times Resources: Read the full article at Tricycle.org Want to deepen yo

Zen Commuter — Tricycle Week: "Knowing Contentment" by Myozan Ian Kilroy Welcome to another insightful installment of Tricycle Week on Zen Commuter! Today, we explore the wisdom of Myozan Ian Kilroy in his poignant article, Knowing Contentment. In a world constantly pushing us toward more — more success, more possessions, more striving — Kilroy’s reflections offer a gentle yet powerful reminder of the peace found in appreciating what already is. We’ll dive into how contentment is not complacency, but rather a deep awareness of enoughness. Through the lens of Buddhist practice, today’s episode encourages us to pause, reconnect with our present experience, and discover the calm that arises from letting go of craving. Whether you’re commuting, walking, or simply taking a mindful break, this episode is an invitation to slow down and rediscover the joy of sufficiency.

The Daily Buddhist by Brendan Barca and Pema Sherpa Today I read some selected passages from The Daily Buddhist. Authors Pema Sherpa and Brendan Barca have written a wonderful book whose essence is in total concert with Zen Commuter. Their book helps us life a fuller, calmer and more loving life by incorporating Buddhist principles and beliefs with our day to day lives. Come listen. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How to connect with others A method for becoming less self-focused Ways for becoming kinder to people thoughts about the illusion of separateness Resources & Mentions: The Daily Buddhist on Substack – https://thedailybuddhist.substack.com/ The Daily Buddhist online - https://thedailybuddhist.net/ The Daily Buddhist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/daily.buddhist THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show If this episode brought you value, please share it with someone who might benefit from a little more calm and clarity. Be a part of the show! Send me a

Buddhism in the Everyday: Brendan Barca’s Insights for Modern Life What happens when ancient wisdom meets modern living? In today’s episode, I sit down with Brendan Barca, co-author of The Daily Buddhist, to talk about how Buddhist principles can bring more peace and clarity to your everyday routine. We explore the value of simple, consistent practice and how mindfulness can shift your experience of stress, uncertainty, and daily life. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How The Daily Buddhist came to life—and what inspired it Practical ways to bring Buddhist wisdom into your daily life Why consistency matters more than intensity in spiritual practice How mindfulness can help when life feels overwhelming Resources & Mentions: The Daily Buddhist on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/daily.buddhist The Daily Buddhist on Substack – https://thedailybuddhist.substack.com/ Brendan’s Website – https://brendanbarca.com/ The Daily Buddhist online - https://thedailybuddhist.net/ THANKS FOR LIST

Welcome to day two of Tricycle Week on Zen Commuter, where we continue exploring transformative insights from Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. Today’s featured article is The Power of a Quiet Life by Lewis Richmond. In this thoughtful reflection, Richmond reminds us that simplicity and stillness are not just retreats from the world but powerful foundations for inner strength and clarity. Join me as we dive into how cultivating a quieter life can lead to deeper presence, peace, and purpose.   Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @thom_walters Facebook: www.facebook.com/zencommuter Donate: Support the Podcast! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotif

It’s Tricycle Week here on Zen Commuter, a time when we explore wisdom from the pages of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. Today’s episode features a powerful article by Venerable Pannavati titled Encourage Others by Overcoming Your Own Suffering. In it, she shares insight into how our personal healing can become a source of strength and support for those around us. Tune in to discover how facing your own suffering with compassion can inspire others on their path toward peace.   Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @thom_walters Facebook: www.facebook.com/zencommuter Donate: Support the Podcast! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Rate and rev

Next week on Zen Commuter, we begin our popular Tricycle Week, a five-episode series where we explore and reflect on selected articles from Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. It’s a listener favorite and a perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the teachings of contemporary Buddhist writers. Today’s episode offers a preview with “The Kamma of Goodwill” by Thanissaro Bhikkhu, first published in 2022. In this thoughtful piece, we explore three key ideas: how goodwill is an intentional and skillful kamma (or action) that shapes our inner and outer world, why true goodwill requires wisdom and discernment rather than blind acceptance, and how developing this quality supports both personal peace and wise engagement with others. Be sure to tune in next week for a full week of insight and inspiration from the pages of Tricycle.   Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in a

What if the key to handling modern stress wasn’t doing more, but doing less—much less? In this episode, Vedic Meditation teacher Michael Rosenfeld shares how an ancient practice offers surprising solutions to today’s fast-paced life. Discover how stillness can become your most powerful tool for clarity, resilience, and peace. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How Vedic Meditation differs from other forms of practice The purpose of a mantra for bypassing thought How Vedic Meditation helps decrease stress Resources & Mentions: Mike Rosenfeld on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mike.vedicmeditation/ https://southbaymeditation.com/ Book a discovery call with Mike Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/

Jeff Patterson, from Portland, OR, USA, has over 36 years of experience, practicing and teaching the meditative and martial arts. As the founder of Northwest Fighting Arts/Portland Tai Chi Academy and The Yielding Warrior, where he emphasizes the transformative power of meditative and martial arts practices, particularly the yielding concept. He has published two books and hundreds on instructional videos. Founder of The Yielding Warrior online program and has worked with 1000's of students from around the world. Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation) Links from the Episode: Get a FREE copy of The Yielding Warrior THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @thom_walters Facebook: www.facebo

Insight Timer is, without a doubt, the top meditation app out today. With over 3000,000 meditations, talks and music tracks it has everything a meditator could want. And now it’s even better with three new enhancements to help you meditate more consistently, live intentionally and feel inspired all throughout the day. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How to increase your consistency with the streak counter Setting an intention for the day Ways to become inspired Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @thom_walters Facebook: www.facebook.com/zencommuter Donate: Support the Podcast! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Rate and revi

My guest today is Manal El-Ramly, author of Transcending Anxiety: From Fear to Freedom, TEDx speaker ('Why You Don't Need to Search for Your Purpose'), creator of the Mattain Method, and a beloved teacher on Insight Timer. Manal helps individuals overcome anxiety, limiting beliefs, and overwhelm by understanding and aligning their four bodies – physical, emotional, mental, and egoic. What You'll Discover in This Episode: The Four Bodies Cultivating Emotional Intelligence The essence of the Unconditional Three Resources & Mentions: Connect with Manal El-Ramly - https://www.mattain.me/joinme Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @tho

In this calming and insightful episode of Zen Commuter, I welcomes breathwork and meditation guide Trea Drake for a heart-centered conversation on the power of the breath. Together, we explore how mindful breathing serves as a gateway to inner peace, presence, and healing. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just beginning, this conversation offers gentle wisdom and inspiration to help you deepen your practice and reconnect with the stillness within. What You'll Discover in This Episode: How Trea Drake found breathwork and meditation and their roles in his personal healing The connection between breath and emotional resilience How to use breath as a tool for calming anxiety and returning to the present moment Resources & Mentions: Connect with Trea Drake: https://www.nervousapes.com/ Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation) THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please shar

  In this episode of Zen Commuter, I sit down with Dr. Mary Sanders, a skilled energy healer who specializes in helping people recover from burnout and chronic stress. With a unique blend of chiropractic care, energy medicine, and intuitive insight, Dr. Sanders supports individuals in reconnecting with their inner vitality and balance. If you’ve been feeling drained, overwhelmed, or out of sync, this conversation offers powerful insights into how energy healing can be a pathway back to calm, clarity, and well-being. Links from the Episode: Connect with Mary Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Send me a message: speakpipe.com/zencommuter Email: thom@zencommuter.com Instagram: @thom_walters Twitter: @thom_walters Facebook: www.facebook.com/zencommute

Jonah Primo has spent the last 8 years studying mindfulness, meditation and philosophy in order to build practical frameworks that people can apply to everyday life and situations. He hosted the flagship podcast for meditation app "Waking Up", produces Australia's #1 philosophy podcast "Principle of Charity", and has interviewed and worked with neuroscientists including Sam Harris and Anil Seth, Oscar winners including Jane Campion and Emile Sherman, and many more teachers, academics and celebrities in order to truly understand the secret sauce of happiness and fulfilment. He shares these secrets on his own podcast, "The Overexamined Life". Links from the Episode: Connect with Jonah and listen to The Overexamined Life Meditation Coaching Schedule Time with Thom (Complimentary consultation)   THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of the Show Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Be a part of the show! Se