James Finley is a contemplative practitioner, clinical psychologist and faculty member of The Living School for Action and Contemplation. Drawing from his experience as a former monk and spiritual directee of Thomas Merton, James helps seekers who desire to live a contemplative, whole life. In this episode, he and Eric discuss many of his works and concepts ... Show More
Jul 31
The Art of Seeing Others (and Being Deeply Seen) | David Brooks
In this episode, David Brooks explores the art of seeing others and being deeply seen, and why our ability to make another person feel truly seen, heard, and understood may be one of the most important skills we can develop. He discusses the power of curiosity, the questions that ... Show More
1h 9m
Jul 24
The Tyranny of Self-Care: When Meditation Apps and Yoga Can't Fix Burnout | Pooja Lakshmin
In this episode, Dr. Pooja Lakshmin challenges the modern self-care industry and explains why meditation apps, bubble baths, and wellness routines often fail to address the real causes of burnout. She shares a more meaningful approach to well-being, one built on boundaries, self- ... Show More
1h 8m
Dec 2023
441. At-One-Ment with Thomas McConkie
<p>Philosopher, thought leader, teacher, and author Thomas McConkie is one of my favorite people to learn from. He's led an interesting life, becoming an expert in all things meditation and mindfulness. </p> <p> </p> <p>Tune in this week for a conversation with Thomas about onene ... Show More
33m 46s
Feb 2020
Bonus: Richard Rohr & James Finley on Turning to the Mystics
In this bonus episode, Living School Faculty James (Jim) Finley and Kirsten Oates join Richard Rohr and Paul Swanson (Brie sadly wasn't there!) in conversation about the contemplative journey, what it was like to be guided by Thomas Merton, Jim's trauma work, and their new podcas ... Show More
1h 9m
Mar 2021
Dialogue 1: The Ascent of Mount Carmel
This is the first session that focuses on the mystic, St. John of the Cross. In the tenor of the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, James Finley begins with a passage from St. John's The Ascent of Mount Carmel, and reflects on the qualitative essence of the spirit of this text. R ... Show More
41m 11s
May 2025
Introduction to Mindfulness: Mindfulness of Thoughts – Part 4
<p>This talk examines how the trance of thinking imprisons us, veiling our full aliveness, love, and spiritual essence. Through contemplative reflections and short guided practices, we'll explore pathways to awaken from this trance and open to the light, awareness, and wholeness ... Show More
53m 54s
Apr 2021
Mingyur Rinpoche - Awareness, Compassion, and Wisdom
In this episode, Wendy speaks with Tibetan Buddhist teacher Mingyur Rinpoche about how contemplative practice can lead us to awareness, compassion, and wisdom. Their conversation covers many topics, including: his involvement in early contemplative research; translating concepts ... Show More
41m 29s
Jul 2024
#94: Exploring Consciousness & Deep Awareness - Doug Kraft
How does the mind shape our reality? What happens when the conceptual mind turns off? The answers might be found in the depths of meditation. Doug Kraft has delved into the complexities of the mind from various perspectives: as a psychotherapist, writer, minister, meditation teac ... Show More
59m 43s
Sep 2025
A Trappist monk on how to stop judging others
Host James Martin, S.J., welcomes Fr. Isaac Slater, OCSO, a Trappist monk, poet, and author of “Do Not Judge Anyone: Desert Wisdom for a Polarized World” to “The Spiritual Life” podcast. This contemplative conversation includes: The positive effects silence can have on our prayer ... Show More
56m 53s
Jun 2023
Simplifying Consciousness
What does it mean to awaken our spiritual consciousness, and how can we navigate this complex, personal journey? In this week’s thought-provoking episode, Gareth and Kim explore the realm of spiritual consciousness, sharing insights from their own spiritual journeys.They uncover ... Show More
37m 18s