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Margaret Meloni

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Death Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastOne by One: A Mindful Approach to Life's Uncertainties Host Margaret Meloni shares personal travel experiences as a metaphor for understanding equanimity and finding calm amid chaos. Through her journey of a challenging red-eye flight and navigating unfamiliar traffic patterns, she explores the concept of "one by one" - a mindful approach to accepting life's unpredictability and maintaining inner peace despite external uncertainties. Key Points 🛫 Travel Challenges: Experienced a difficult red-eye flight with no sleep, demonstrating the importance of accepting situations beyond one's control 😌 Equanimity in Motion: Learned to find calm in chaotic traffic by embracing the "one by one" philosophy of patience and turn-taking 🧘 Mindful A...2025-07-2806 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastFinding Calm in the Chaos: Buddhist Tools for Anxiety and Angst In this heartfelt solo episode, Margaret Meloni explores the messy, anxious moments that chaos can bring—and how Buddhist practice offers real, grounding tools to meet them with equanimity. From reconnecting with the Dharma and chanting mantras to movement, meaningful conversation, and walking meditation, this reflection is packed with gentle, practical guidance. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, angsty, or just out of sync, this episode is a compassionate invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and find peace within the storm.2025-07-1408 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastIn Difficult Times, Choose Letting Go Over Giving Up Together, we will explore the critical distinction between "letting go" and "giving up" through a Buddhist philosophical lens. Margaret discusses how letting go is a conscious, compassionate practice of releasing attachment without losing hope or effort, while giving up represents a collapse into despair, apathy, and complete surrender. Using personal anecdotes and insights from Buddhist teachings, she encourages listeners to navigate challenging times with wisdom, equanimity, and continued engagement. Key Points 🧘 Letting go is a conscious choice to release attachment without losing value or purpose, rooted in wisdom and acceptance 🌊 Letting go is like a lotus leaf...2025-07-0717 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastAncient Wisdom for Modern Challenges: Anger in Today’s World With a unique blend of ancient Buddhist wisdom and contemporary insights, Margaret explores how anger not only affects our personal lives but also ripples through our relationships and society at large. Throughout the episode, we uncover the many facets of anger and its consequences, from the profound impact it has on our physical appearance—turning us "ugly" both inside and out—to the emotional toll it takes on our ability to rest peacefully. Margaret emphasizes that anger can disrupt our sleep and lead to mental unrest, preventing us from finding peace even in the safest environments. We also...2025-06-3017 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBeyond Good and Bad: Asking "May I Perceive This Differently?" Margaret explores equanimity as the ability to perceive experiences without being dominated by visceral reactions. By embracing both the agreeable and disagreeable aspects of any situation, listeners can begin to foster a more balanced approach to life's challenges. The podcast also highlights a fascinating encounter between the Buddha and a Brahmin teacher, where the limitations of sensory perception are unveiled. Here, the Buddha demonstrates that simply avoiding sensory experiences does not equate to true development of faculties. Listeners will learn practical strategies for achieving rapid equanimity in the face of emotional upheaval. Just as droplets of water...2025-06-2316 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Fast Food Mentality: Why Complaining Isn’t the Answer  Complaining is Like Junk Food: Just as fast food offers fleeting satisfaction but lacks nourishment, complaining provides only temporary emotional relief. This episode invites listeners to reconsider the impact of their words and thoughts on their well-being. Drawing an insightful analogy between complaining and consuming fast food, Margaret highlights how we often seek quick emotional relief through negative expressions that ultimately leave us feeling unsatisfied and burdened. This discussion reminds us that while life's challenges are inevitable, our responses can lead us toward either suffering or personal growth. As the episode unfolds, Margaret introduces her n...2025-06-1609 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastMaybe: The Power of Withholding Judgment The central narrative of The Story of the Chinese Farmer powerfully reminds us that what may initially seem like fortune or misfortune can lead to unforeseen consequences. The farmer's unique response of "maybe" to various events illustrates the wisdom in suspending immediate judgment. By refraining from labeling experiences too quickly, we can embrace the impermanence and uncertainty of life. This episode emphasizes mindful acceptance, urging listeners to observe events with detachment from strong emotional responses. Through this practice, we can cultivate a greater sense of personal growth and resilience. Margaret encourages us to incorporate the...2025-06-0904 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Art of Letting Go: Insights from a Stuffed Frog When Willy, her playful cat, tears a stuffed frog apart, Margaret Meloni is thrust into an emotional journey that prompts deep introspection Throughout the episode, Margaret skillfully navigates her feelings of sorrow and frustration as she grapples with the loss of the stuffed animal. This emotional response serves as a springboard for a wider discussion on the nature of attachment, exploring how we imbue objects with meaning based on our relationships and memories. Listeners will resonate with her insights as she reflects on the significance of sentimental items and how they often link us to our loved...2025-06-0207 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastEquanimity Unveiled: How the Eight Winds Shape Our Journey Focus on the eight worldly conditions—gain and loss, status and disgrace, censure and praise, pleasure and pain. These "winds", as host Margaret Meloni refers to them, are familiar to all of us. By exploring these vicissitudes, Margaret encourages us to reflect on how our attachment to gain and our aversion to loss can lead to suffering. She reminds us that embracing loss can be a profound teacher, guiding us to a deeper understanding of impermanence and the realities of life.  Margaret's insights extend beyond simple acceptance; she challenges us to reshape our relationship with praise and bla...2025-05-2607 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Eight Worldly Conditions: Navigating Gain, Loss, and Everything In Between Consider the profound teachings of the Lokavipati sutta. Drawing from the wisdom of the Buddha, Margaret reveals how our responses to the eight worldly conditions—gain and loss, status and disgrace, censure and praise, pleasure and pain—shape our experiences of suffering and peace. As she delves into these vicissitudes, she encourages listeners to reflect on their judgments and reactions to life’s inevitable ups and downs. This sutta emphasizes the distinction between the uninstructed person and the well-instructed disciple of the Noble Ones, highlighting the importance of mindfulness and awareness in navigating life’s challenges. Margaret encourag...2025-05-1907 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastTurning Toward Discomfort: Lessons from J. David Cresswell Drawing from the insightful article by J. David Cresswell, "Learning to Accept Discomfort Could Help You Thrive," published in Scientific American, Margaret explores the transformative power of embracing discomfort as a pathway to achieving equanimity. In a world that often feels chaotic and beyond our control, this episode serves as a timely reminder that finding balance and peace is not only possible but essential for personal growth. Margaret begins by sharing an anecdote highlighting an extraordinary case where an individual faced a painful dental procedure without anesthesia, instead relying on mindfulness and equanimity to transform his experience...2025-05-1209 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastGentle Self-Observation: Cultivating Equanimity in Daily Life Listeners will discover how equanimity functions as a stabilizing force in our emotional lives. Margaret emphasizes that it allows us to experience deep compassion, loving-kindness, and joyousness without being overwhelmed by our feelings. By observing our reactions to the roadside scenarios—where a stranger elicits mild compassion, a neighbor stirs more involvement, and a best friend creates profound emotional turbulence—she elucidates the varying shades of our emotional engagement and the importance of a balanced response. Throughout the discussion, Margaret stresses the importance of "not self" (non-attachment) as a foundational practice for cultivating equanimity. This practice encourages us t...2025-05-0509 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Insightful Path: Cultivating Equanimity Through Self-Understanding In this episode, Margaret revisits the concept of equanimity, presenting it not just as a serene state of mind but as an essential practice that helps us respond wisely to life’s fluctuations. Life’s ups and downs can feel overwhelming, but Margaret offers strategies for maintaining our grounding amidst the emotional tides. She delves into the Buddhist teachings of karma and the idea of “not-self,” encouraging listeners to recognize that our experiences—both joyful and sorrowful—are intertwined with our actions and the actions of others. This understanding can be liberating, allowing us to embrace our life’s circumstances...2025-04-2819 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCultivating Connection: The Power of the Brahmaviharas Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of human relationships? You're not alone. In a world filled with challenges, the Brahmaviharas offer us a lifeline—four divine abodes that can transform our interactions and elevate our spirits. In the latest episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, host Margaret Meloni invites us on a journey through the heart of compassion. She illuminates the path of Metta, Karuna, Mudita, and Upeka—concepts that aren’t just philosophical; they’re practical tools for navigating the stormy seas of modern life. 🌊 ❤️ Metta (Loving-Kindness): Imagine a love so vast that it requires nothing...2025-04-2114 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastIs Today a Good Day to Die? Living Fully with Purpose with Elysabeth Williamson Margaret Meloni welcomes Elysabeth Williamson (https://www.elysabethwilliamson.com/) , a pioneering figure in the realm of partner-based yoga, to discuss the profound intersections of yoga, death, and self-exploration. Elysabeth introduces her unique approach to partner yoga, emphasizing that it transcends mere physical practice and delves into the holistic well-being of our entire being. This episode centers on Elysabeth’s recent talk titled "Exploring the Great Mystery and Befriending Death," where she shares her insights on the transformative power of contemplating death as a means to reclaim the sacred nature of life’s transitions. Margaret and Elysabeth engage in a...2025-04-1440 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRegret, Remorse, and Equanimity Margaret Meloni guides listeners through the intricate landscape of regret and remorse, exploring how these emotions impact our lives in turbulent times. Drawing from Buddhist teachings and suttas, Margaret delves into the nuances of regret and remorse, illustrating how they can serve both as catalysts for growth and as burdens that weigh us down. In a world characterized by chaos and uncertainty, the discussion turns to the importance of finding equanimity, encouraging us to cultivate balance and peace amidst external turmoil. As Margaret reflects on recent encounters with friends grappling with feelings of regret over relationship choices...2025-04-0709 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastA Meditation Practice for EquanimityEquanimity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a mental fortress. It’s the art of letting experiences—both the sweet and the bitter—arrive and depart without shaking our inner calm. Just like a chocolate craving that pulls at our desires, attachment disrupts our peace.  But what if we could observe that craving like clouds passing through the sky?  To help listeners cultivate a deeper sense of equanimity, Margaret introduces a guided meditation that encourages acceptance of all beings and thoughts—pleasant and unpleasant alike. This practice emphasizes seeing thoughts as transient clouds, promoting a healthier relationship w...2025-03-3112 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastFinding Equanimity: Navigating Anger in Chaotic Times Recognizing that anger is one of the unskillful roots that hinder our spiritual practice, Margaret emphasizes the importance of transforming negative emotions into goodwill, compassion, and equanimity.    The heart of this episode centers around five effective strategies to combat feelings of hatred: 1. Develop goodwill 2. Cultivate compassion 3. Practice equanimity.4. Ignore and pay no attention.5. Recognize the individual's karmic journey.    By employing mindfulness and focusing on our intentions, we can rise above the fray and contribute positively to ourselves and the world around us. This episode is not just an exploration of Buddhist phil...2025-03-1710 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCultivating Loving-Kindness: Expanding Compassion Beyond Boundaries Drawing on Buddhist teachings and personal insights, Margaret invites listeners to reflect on the tumultuous nature of modern life and how we can navigate it with grace and wisdom. As she examines the challenges posed by political division, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining our core values of compassion and mindfulness—even when confronted with strongly held opposing views. Margaret delves into the emotional turmoil that often accompanies political disagreements, acknowledging that such conflicts can feel deeply personal. She highlights the need to balance our attachment to beliefs with a commitment to understanding and kindness. Throughout the co...2025-03-1011 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Roof Overhead: A Monk's Lesson in EquanimityContrary to common perceptions of equanimity as mere passive acceptance, this episode unpacks its nature as an active, skillful engagement with life's trials and tribulations. Through a captivating story of a monk and his experience in a partially roofed hut, listeners are invited to explore how mindful responses to life’s challenges can foster resilience. Margaret skillfully dissects the story of a monk who mistakenly equates acceptance with inaction, prompting a vital discussion on the Buddhist understanding of skillful and unskillful responses to our circumstances.  With practical advice on pacing yourself and conserving energy for the...2025-03-0311 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Power of Practice: Stand Firm and Stay Grounded Practical insights into how spiritual resilience can be cultivated. Margaret elucidates the difference between equanimity and apathy, encouraging a calm, engaged response to life’s difficulties. She underscores the importance of compassionate action—urging listeners to care for themselves and others when the world feels bleak. Margaret also shares key spiritual principles, such as acknowledging suffering, confronting our own clinging and aversion, and standing up for our beliefs. The ultimate goal of spiritual practice, as emphasized in this episode, is to foster inner peace and resilience while remaining actively engaged in the world around us. Margaret's message is c...2025-02-2404 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCatching the Ball: Lessons on Life’s Challenges and EquanimityIn this episode, Margaret draws parallels between the challenges we face in our daily lives and the world around us, emphasizing that while we cannot control every external circumstance, we can cultivate our inner response. She shares her own experiences with loss, resilience, and the importance of remaining grounded when life feels overwhelming. With a gentle yet firm reminder, she encourages listeners to practice patience and mindfulness, recognizing that even small moments of frustration and chaos can derail our sense of peace if we let them. Join us as we explore practical ways to integrate equanimity into...2025-02-1709 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastTrigger Awareness: Cultivating Inner Strength in Chaos Together we dive into the essence of navigating the myriad emotional highs and lows that life brings. With a keen awareness that our perceptions color our experiences, listeners are invited to reflect on the good, the bad, and the mundane events that unfold throughout the week. Through her candid musings, your host Margaret Meloni emphasizes the importance of recognizing your feelings and responses to life’s occurrences, gently reminding you that while you can’t control what happens, you can certainly control how you react to it. It’s about fostering resilience and strength, rather than being swept...2025-02-1007 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastSeason 5: Equanimity in Chaos Welcome back to the Death Dhamma Podcast! This season promises to delve into the crucial theme of finding equanimity and balance during the turbulent times we live in, marked by societal turmoil, climate change, and personal challenges. After exploring the profound themes of death, grief, impermanence, clinging, and aversion in previous seasons, your host Margaret Meloni, now invites listeners to engage with the broader context of our current reality, emphasizing the essential role of mindfulness and compassion in navigating these chaotic waters.  In this season, listeners can expect a deep dive into the practice of maintaining equanimity a...2025-01-2704 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRituals and Reflections: Finding Meaning Beyond AttachmentHost Margaret Meloni explores the significance of cultural and familial rituals, questioning why certain traditions hold such power over you. She challenges you to examine your beliefs and preferences and to assess the outcomes produced by these attachments. Using relatable anecdotes from her life, including her journey with family Christmas traditions, Margaret shares her insights on how clinging to specific ways of doing things can lead to unnecessary suffering. Through thought-provoking questions and guided reflections, she encourages you to identify your own patterns of attachment and consider how these may impact your well-being. Are there...2024-12-1613 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastStephen Schettini: Rediscovering the Buddha’s Personality in the Pali CanonMargaret welcomes returning guest Stephen Schettini, a mindfulness teacher and author of acclaimed works such as "The Novice" and "The Art of Letting Go". Stephen shares his journey of exploring the historical Buddha, challenging traditional narratives, and diving deep into the early Buddhist texts of the Pali Canon. Stephen uncovers intriguing historical contexts that shaped the Buddha’s motivations, especially in light of the geopolitical turmoil in his homeland of Sakya. As Stephen argues, recognizing the potential personal struggles and imperfections of the Buddha not only humanizes him but also makes his teachings accessible to contemporary practitioners fa...2024-10-2130 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastPrisoners of Our Own Device: Understanding and Alleviating SufferingRecalling her experiences visiting a California state prison alongside regular guest Venerable De Hong, Margaret Meloni uncovers the raw and profound manifestations of suffering within the correctional environment. Through the stories shared by incarcerated individuals, she highlights the common threads of abuse, abandonment, and addiction that contribute to their circumstances—a powerful reminder of the multifaceted nature of suffering. We are reminded: The purpose of the podcast is to emphasize how understanding individual and collective suffering can guide us through our own struggles and promote healing. There is a complex interplay between personal responsibility and societal fa...2024-09-3007 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Buddha's Teachings on Pain: Finding Freedom from the Second ArrowReading from the Sallatha Sutta, or "The Arrow," from the Pali Canon, Margaret Meloni explores the intricate nature of suffering and how our responses to pain can significantly impact our mental well-being. By reviewing this essential Buddhist text, we unpack the distinction between the uninstructed ordinary person and the well-instructed disciple of the noble ones, revealing how each navigates the experience of pain and pleasure. Margaret reminds us of the concept of the "two arrows" that the Buddha speaks of—where the first arrow represents the initial physical pain we encounter, while the second arrow symbolizes the ad...2024-09-0211 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRefuge, Resilience, and Release from Suffering.A conversation with a friend who was feeling overwhelmed by the challenges and crises happening in the world, such as political strife, international conflicts, and environmental disasters, led host Margaret Meloni to focus on the fact that we cannot control the external world. Instead, we must focus on what we can control - our own thoughts, emotions, and actions. Taking refuge in the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) can provide the tools and support needed to navigate these turbulent times. Find refuge in the Triple Gem, as it provides a pathway to liberation from suffering and the opportunity for...2024-08-1909 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRight Livelihood Contributes to Community Well-beingLife often throws us into situations that make us ponder our purpose and the impact of our daily actions. The concept of Right Livelihood, part of the Noble Eightfold Path, provides a guiding light, illuminating a path to ethical living and purposeful work. Join Margaret Meloni as she dives deep into the essence of Right Livelihood, examining how it encourages honesty, fairness, and empathy in all our interactions. We'll discuss how these principles not only contribute to personal satisfaction and spiritual growth but also foster societal well-being.  Learn how to overcome challenges, make mindful decisions, a...2024-08-0513 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastExploring Past Lives with Simon Bown Special guest Simon Bown, a renowned past life regression hypnotherapist, shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in the field, explaining how he guides clients back to their past lives through hypnosis to uncover unresolved trauma and gain insights for healing in their current lifetime. Through the captivating discussion, Simon and Margaret explore the concept of reincarnation and the Buddhist perspective on suffering, pondering the idea that our souls may choose to endure challenges in different lifetimes in order to learn and evolve. Simon recounts some of his own powerful past life regression experiences, shedding light on...2024-07-2939 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Nature of Suffering: An ExplorationThrough a series of insightful interviews with guests, Margaret Meloni explores how suffering can manifest mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The episode highlights the idea that suffering is a natural part of life and serves as a guidepost, signaling when something is out of alignment in our lives.   Listeners are taken on a journey through different perspectives on suffering, from stress and trauma to addiction and physical pain. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of suffering and its cessation, viewing them as integral parts of the human experience. Margaret shares valuable insights from her guests, who h...2024-07-2214 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastReducing Suffering Through Compassionate DirectnessWe all need to have difficult discussions. Host Margaret Meloni shares a personal anecdote about a situation where she avoided giving feedback to an underperforming employee, leading to negative consequences for both parties involved. This serves as a prime example of how avoiding difficult conversations can ultimately do more harm than good. The concept of "compassionate directness" is introduced as a way to approach challenging discussions with empathy and understanding. By empowering individuals to provide feedback, voice concerns, and disagree in a constructive manner, communication can be more effective and relationships can thrive. It's emphasized that being...2024-07-0814 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRabbit, Woodpecker and Lion: Wise Ways to CompassionIn this episode of the podcast, host Margaret Meloni explores two poignant stories from the Jataka tales, which are Buddhist stories that recount the Buddha's previous lives. Through these tales, listeners are introduced to the Buddhist ideals of selflessness, compassion, and the acceptance of impermanence. The first story follows the selfless sacrifice of a rabbit who jumps into a fire to feed a holy man, only to discover that the holy man is actually the king of the gods testing the rabbit's virtue. The second story tells of a woodpecker who helps a lion in distress, only to realize...2024-06-1712 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastGiselle Taraba: The Power of Compassion: A Roadmap to Joyful LivingGiselle Taraba  shares her insights on how to navigate suffering through the lens of the Buddhist Four Noble Truths, and how she has learned to approach compassion in a grounded and centered way. Her conversation with host, Margaret Meloni touches on the importance of self-compassion and how it serves as a foundation for extending compassion to others without becoming overwhelmed. Giselle shares her personal journey of leaving a high-stress corporate job to pursue her passion for bringing love, compassion, and spiritual alignment into the workplace. She discusses her upcoming book on reimagining education to incorporate mindfulness and e...2024-06-1042 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastTrinn Hatch Exploring the Spiritual and Emotional Aspects of Healing  Margaret welcomes Trinn Hatch, the co-creator of Jampha Tibetan Pharmacy, to discuss the topic of suffering and relief from suffering. Trinn Hatch shares his own remarkable journey with suffering, from a severe leg injury that almost resulted in amputation to finding healing through cannabinoids, CBD, and terpenes. His dedication to helping others find relief from their suffering is truly inspiring. Trinn's personal story is one of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of traditional Tibetan medicine. Through his own healing journey, he discovered the importance of holistic approaches, personalized protocols, and the spiritual and emotional a...2024-05-2737 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastHelp Yourself: Finding Relief in Self-CompassionIn this podcast episode, Margaret Meloni shares her personal journey of finding relief from suffering during times of grief and loss. She emphasizes the importance of practicing self-compassion and allowing oneself to feel uncomfortable with death and grief as a normal human experience. Meloni discusses the benefits of being present and not getting caught up in being productive or avoiding the pain of grief.  Listeners will hear how Meloni found solace in practicing gratitude, caring for her pets, and engaging with Buddhist teachings on impermanence and death. She shares how teachings such as the Four Noble Truths a...2024-05-2018 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastEmbracing Life Through the Lens of Dharma: Venerable Clear Grace's TeachingsIn this episode, Margaret is  honored to host Venerable Clear Grace Dayananda, an ordained Buddhist monastic in both the Mahayana and Theravada tradition. Known as the "Traveling Nunk," Venerable Clear Grace shares her experiences of living in the heart of New Orleans' Seventh Ward, a historically significant black community. She describes the vibrancy and diversity of life in her urban surroundings, reflecting on the natural and human-made sounds that define her daily existence. You can support her by visiting, https://travelingnunk.org/. Venerable Clear Grace talks about her mission to offer refuge to those in ne...2024-05-1342 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastLinda Hochstetler: 21 Days to Die: Exploring the Guide to End of LifeIn this episode of the Death Dhamma Podcast, host Margaret welcomes Linda Hochstetler, an accomplished social worker, psychotherapist, Buddhist meditation teacher, and author of the book "21 Days to Die, The Canadian Guide to End of Life." Linda shares her passion for the topic of illness, dying, and death, and how she combines her expertise in grief work, hospice palliative care, Buddhism, and meditation to bring a unique perspective to her work. Margaret and Linda discuss the second noble truth of suffering and how it can be interpreted in different ways. Linda emphasizes the importance of recognizing both...2024-04-1543 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastPets, People And Release from SufferingIn this episode, we explore the unexpected ways in which caring for a pet can provide purpose and comfort during difficult times. Our pets can help bring us release from suffering. We discuss how, amidst the business of death and the turmoil of grief, the presence of pets can deliver a comforting sense of stability and routine. Some days, the company of a pet offers comfort when human interaction may be too overwhelming. With a pet you always having someone to come home to - someone who is always excitedly awaiting your return. And if you're someone...2024-03-2515 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBodhicitta, Bodhisattva, and Helping Others Bodhisatta or Bodhisattva is a term often used to describe an enlightened individual who possesses wisdom and compassion. These are people who demonstrate the paramitas or perfections in their lifestyle. We says this as a compliment, a form of admiration.   The definition of Bodhisattva extends beyond being a beacon of relief in a world of suffering, especially when considering the term across the three major ways of being Buddhist - Theravāda, Mahāyana, and Vajrayāna. However, we won't explore a full-scale exposition of what Bodhisattva signifies in these varied paths of Buddhism this time around. Inste...2024-03-1811 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastDedicating Merit: A Path to Free Others from Suffering In this thought-provoking episode, we delve Buddhist practice, exploring the profound connections between mettā practice and the concept of merit. We ponder whether these two aspects are separate or intertwined, and how they can complement each other in our journey towards inner peace and compassion. We begin with a contemplation of mettā, alternatively known as loving-kindness or goodwill, and its role in directing well-wishes and positive intentions towards others. We discuss how genuine mettā goes beyond mere words and is fundamentally about wishing genuine happiness and well-being for everyone- even those we find challenging. Transitioning smo...2024-03-1113 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCompassion as a Critical Foundation for Buddhist Practice As we journey deeper into this season, we anticipate the theme of compassion to be a recurring motif in our discussions with those who work tirelessly to ease the sufferings of others. Compassion, while not always verbally expressed, is often the undercurrent that drives their actions and fuels their motivations. This episode kicks off with an interesting anecdote from Margaret’s past - a statement made by an academic teacher claiming the absence of compassion in Theravada Buddhism. This claim, which left a deep impression, led her to an explorative quest on the existence of compassion in th...2024-03-0411 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastRenee McKenna: Disconnection as the Root of Suffering What if suffering acts as a compass, guiding us towards areas of our life that require care and attention? Suffering signals us that we are out of alignment with our true selves and need to course-correct. When we ignore this signal we will encounter tangible pain and emotional suffering both stemming from a resistance to change and progress. In a recent episode of the podcast, Reevaluating the Idea of Selfishness in Buddhism, we discussed the need to help ourselves. This concept surfaces again as Renee reminds us of the importance of the expression, “If you want to ch...2024-02-2640 minAnimal Writes - Animal Writers and Best-selling Authors - Pets & AnimalsAnimal Writes - Animal Writers and Best-selling Authors - Pets & AnimalsAnimal Writes - Episode 198 Margaret Meloni, PhD - Enlightenment UnleashedJoining me for this episode is author and Buddhist practitioner, Margaret Meloni, PhD. We discuss her book, Enlightenment Unleashed. We chat about how our animals can lead us to a spiritual transformation, karma and how it influences our bond with our animals and how to heal from a loss of an animal. Have a listen to this fascinating and insightful discussion. Enjoy!EPISODE NOTES: Margaret Meloni, PhD - Enlightenment UnleashedBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/animal-writes-animal-writers-and-best-selling-authors-pets-animals--6666984/support.2024-02-2234 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastReevaluating the Idea of Selfishness in Buddhism Let’s delve into a commonly misunderstood aspect of Buddhism, particularly Theravada Buddhism – the concept of helping others as part of you spiritual journey. There's a prevalent misconception that according to Buddhist teachings, you should solely focus on your own liberation before turning your attention to help others.. Does this really imply a dismissal of helping others? Margaret argues that this is not the case. She believes that Buddhism, in all its forms, encourages us to support others. Moreover, she suggests that our own liberation is intricately connected to the liberation of others. Through this disc...2024-02-1910 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastStephen Schettini: Unmasking Low Self-Esteem: An Unseen Suffering Dive into this thought-provoking episode as Stephen and Margaret delve into the most common suffering that many people encounter - low self-esteem. We explore the often overlooked consequence of self-doubt, the tendency to put others first to our own detriment, and how these feed into a cycle of disrespect – towards ourselves and from others. Their discussion shifts towards the complexity of relationships and how they can often become a battlefield of dominance, with the stronger personality frequently overpowering the less assertive one. Stephen points out the rarity of perfectly balanced relationships, reflecting on the significant amount of de...2024-02-1232 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBuddhist Teachings: The Ultimate Liberation from SufferingOften, we perceive Buddhists as solitary figures, lost in the realms of meditation and self-reflection. But is this the whole picture? Is Buddhism just about individual enlightenment, or does it also advocate service to others? The story of Buddhism begins with the Buddha, who walked a path of solitude, wisdom, and enlightenment. Yet, he initially hesitated to share his profound understanding of life and existence, fearing that it might be too complex for others to grasp. Nonetheless, he was persuaded that at least some would comprehend and benefit from his teachings. His decision to share his enlightenment...2024-02-0508 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastSeason 4: Who Helps to Alleviate Suffering and How?Season 4 of the Death Dhamma podcast kicks off on Monday, February 5, 2024. It's time to take a look at the people in this world who help to alleviate the suffering of other beings. Maybe they help people, maybe they help animals, we want to know them. To learn how they do it, and how they spark their compassion. We also want to explore teachings, practices, and stories around freeing others from suffering. Why? Because each of us, in our way can help. We too, can bring relief to ourselves and others.2024-01-2906 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastMore Pets, More AttachmentOne day, a member of the group I meditated with said to me, “You write and talk about when a friend or family member dies, but what about when we lose our pets?” She had recently lost a cat who had been by her side for nineteen years. This loss was deep and painful. I carried her question with me and contemplated how best to write about grieving our animal friends. Around the same time, another friend told me they thought it would be interesting if my next book was about the spiritual nature of our pets. This, too, was...2024-01-0813 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Prepping: How to Leave A Legacy of Love with Dr. Kimberly HarmsIn this heartwarming episode, we delve into an often overlooked aspect of legacy planning: emotional life insurance. We acknowledge the importance of financial life insurance and how it protects our loved ones in our absence. But our conversation takes a unique turn as we ponder on the importance of leaving an emotional cushion for our dear ones. Dr. Kimberly Harms, shares her compelling views on how our culture tends to shy away from such dialogues, and the impact of continuous conversations can have on providing emotional stability. Margaret shares her forward-thinking parents approach and how they prepared...2023-12-1842 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastDr. Seth Zuihō Segall: Pluralism and the Conflict of Visions: Navigating Diversity in Democracy In this thought-provoking episode, our guest Seth delves into the primary sources of inspiration for his latest book, The House We Live In: Virtue, Wisdom, and Pluralism. In the wake of the 2016 elections, he felt compelled to discuss the competencies, understandings, habits, and skills vital for the survival of democracy, as he perceived it to be under threat. Seth also draws from his previous work comparing Buddhist and Aristotelian views of the good life, extending this comparison to Confucianism. He examines these three ancient approaches to understanding flourishing, virtue, and wisdom, and seeks to derive commonalities applicable in a...2023-11-2047 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastFrancesca Arnoldy: Living Fully and Dying PreparedMemento Mori-  A healthy way to remember that we are going to die. That doesn’t make it easy. Join as Margaret Meloni and Francesca Arnoldy thoughtfully, joyfully, and peacefully discusses what it means to do the work. And how all of us can benefit from being prepared to face death. This is a special between-season episode of The Deatth Dhamma podcast.  If you are willing to do the work, then the Death Doula’s Guide to Living Fully and Dying Prepared will by your gentle guide. With thoughtful exercises and meaningful reflections, you ca...2023-10-3036 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastLiving Buddhism: The Past, the Future, and the NowWelcome back to another episode of the Death Dhamma podcast! In our previous episode, we were deeply inspired by Whitney Sause's transformative journey and her insights into Buddhism, attachment, and personal growth. Whitney's story resonated with us as she shared her experiences of disconnecting from a challenging lifestyle and finding a new path. During her six-month retreat, Whitney embraced the practice of Buddhism and meditation, which became an integral part of her life. However, she also came to a point where she realized that she needed to find equanimity with the role of Buddhism in her journey...2023-10-0911 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBuddhism, Attachment, and Personal Growth: Navigating Life's Challenges with Whitney SauseIn this episode of the podcast, Margaret introduces Whitney Sause, a Buddhist practitioner who has used Buddhism to navigate through significant challenges in her life. Whitney shares her journey of how she integrated Buddhism and attachment to overcome anger management issues and other difficulties. Whitney explains that her journey with anger began before her time in the military, as she was raised in an abusive and chaotic environment that lacked emotional processing skills. Seeking a way to escape the trauma, she enlisted in the military, which only reinforced her emotional walls and guardedness. Whitney discusses the unique...2023-10-0233 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastComing in Season 4 Our Release from Suffering and the Path of CompassionAs we approach the end of season 3, Margaret finds herself reflecting on the lessons and challenges that come with planning a podcast. She realizes that there is an element of clinging involved in wanting to continue creating the podcast. However, she also acknowledges that if it is time to let go, then it is time to let go. One of the attachments she has is the belief that she must be the sole creator of podcast ideas. This mindset stems from her tendency to work independently, which often leads to aversion when it comes to asking for...2023-09-2509 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastNurturing the Roots of Skillful Behavior Using the Teachings of the Pali Canon Today we delve into the teachings of the Pali Canon and explore the wisdom imparted by our esteemed teachers. Today, let's reflect on the concepts of tanha and dukkha, as elucidated in these verses: "When this sticky, uncouth craving overtakes you in the world, your sorrows proliferate like wild grass after rain. However, if you are able to overcome this craving, which is hard to escape, your sorrows will roll off you like water beads off a lotus." (Dhp 335-336) “Just as a tree, even when cut, can grow back if its root remains undamaged an...2023-09-1817 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCollective Wisdom Around Clinging and AversionIn this episode, we explore the topic of attachment and its role in our lives. Dr. Seth Zuiho Segal challenges the common belief that Buddhism advocates for non-attachment in all aspects of life. He explains that there are different kinds of attachments, including attachments to people, objects, opinions, and self-identity. While certain attachments can be limiting, Seth argues that relationships are crucial for our overall well-being and that they provide an opportunity to practice mindfulness and compassion. He encourages listeners to prioritize the quality of their relationships and to embrace the complexities of attachment.   Venerable D...2023-09-1116 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastContemplating the Wisdom of “Your Dream Your Rules.”In today's episode, we will be contemplating the rules and our responses to them, drawing examples from both professional and spiritual realms. In her professional life, Margaret teaches project management, guiding individuals in planning and implementing various initiatives. In an introductory course, participants often question the necessity of following all the recommended best practices. Margaret explains that while they are not obligated to do so, it is important to be aware of these tools and practices, as you cannot utilize what you do not know exists. By ignoring these tools, you may miss out on valuable insights...2023-09-0415 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastOvercoming the Four Challenges of Wisdom with the Noble Eightfold PathCongratulations, after much work, you have reached the mountain top and are wise. Now, all you need to do is sit back, and relax. Enjoy the rest of your time in this life and revel in your wisdom. You know better! Wisdom is challenging to obtain, and requires work to maintain. In our last episode, we gained a shamanic perspective on the four challenges we face as we seek wisdom. Today, we will consider those challenges, and consider some Buddhist teachings on wisdom. Specifically on the Noble Eightfold Path and how sila, samadhi, and prajna...2023-08-2815 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastJourney to Finding Peace: Exploring Shamanic Practices and the Concept of the DreamIn this episode, Margaret reconnects with Mike Sanders, a shaman who shares his journey and experiences with Native American Indian practices. They discuss how different paths can lead to the same goal of finding peace and less suffering in life. Mike talks about his upbringing and how his Native American heritage influenced his decision to explore shamanism. He shares how he stumbled upon a book on shamanism that resonated with him and led him to practice Native American traditions. Mike also discusses the challenges he faced in being accepted by the Native American community due to his...2023-08-2136 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Dance of Rebirth: Reflections on Attachment and Human ConnectionsIn this introspective episode, Margaret delves into the concept of rebirth and its impact on our lives. Initially, rebirth was just a distant belief for her, something she didn't ponder upon often. However, as she immersed herself in the teachings of Buddhism, rebirth started to become something more tangible, something she contemplated deeply.   Through her interactions with various Buddhist groups and teachers, Margaret was exposed to intriguing ideas surrounding rebirth. The notion that we have all been in each other's lives across multiple lifetimes, or that unresolved issues with certain individuals persist from one lifetime t...2023-08-1408 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastConnection, Attachment, MIndfulness and More! When it comes to relationships, those with a secure attachment style thrive on honesty, tolerance, and emotional closeness. They possess a beautiful balance of independence and connection, not fearing solitude yet still able to form strong bonds. However, it's important to note that people with other attachment styles can also find happiness in their relationships. It all boils down to understanding ourselves and how we connect with others. To distinguish this concept from Buddhist attachment, we can view this bond or attachment style as a form of connection. As humans, we naturally seek connection with others. Buddhism...2023-08-0711 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBuddhism and Attachment Theory with Bill BelangerIn this thought-provoking podcast episode, host Margaret Meloni interviews Bill Belanger, a contemplative psychotherapist and practicing Buddhist, as they delve into the concepts of suffering, attachment, and emptiness in Buddhism. Bill shares his background as a psychotherapist and his experiences living and practicing Buddhism in Asia, shedding light on the integration of meditation and therapeutic practices into the lives of entrepreneurs to improve their businesses.Bill's website is https://www.integratedmindtraining.com/ The conversation revolves around the Four Noble Truths and their relevance to the human condition. Bill explains how the First Noble Truth, Dukkha, can be...2023-07-3144 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastJournaling Reflections on Grief, Rituals, and Self-DiscoveryWelcome back to the Death Dhamma podcast. Today's episode is a reflective one, and we hope you will find it useful on your own personal journey. In our previous episode, titled "The Kosala Sutta AN 5.49," we explored the various methods and approaches to funerals for Buddhists. We questioned the purpose of these rituals for someone who has already departed, realizing that they often serve as a means to support the grieving process of the living. While these rituals may not directly benefit the deceased, they can provide solace and aid the grief journey of those left behind.2023-07-2407 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastConsidering Buddhist Funeral Traditions: The Importance of Rituals in the Grief JourneyIn this episode, we explore the different death and mourning rituals of Theravada, Mahayana, and Tibetan Buddhists. These rituals vary in location, customs, and beliefs, but they all serve as a reminder of impermanence and the shared experience of grief.  For those who share the beliefs discussed, these rituals hold significance in assisting the deceased's transfer to rebirth and increasing positive karma. However, some may question the necessity of performing these rituals for someone who is gone. It's essential to remember that these rituals can also ease the grief journey of those left behind.  The Bu...2023-07-1718 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastTransformative Grief: Exploring the Spiritual Process with Tracee DunblazerOn this episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, Margaret interviews grief expert Tracee Dunblazer to explore how grief can be a spiritual process. Tracee is the author of Transformative Grief: an Ancient Ritual for Modern Times and has extensive experience in working with grief and karmic relationships. Tracee explains that grief is a daily process that we experience for various reasons, not just due to death or loss. She believes that grief is an awakening in our mental, emotional, and physical world and that we no longer need to view it as something harmful. However, society has...2023-07-1045 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastExploring Life Review and Redemption in Your Buddhist PracticeWelcome to this thought-provoking and insightful episode of the Death Dhamma podcast. In this episode, Margaret takes us on a journey to explore the theme of life review.  Drawing inspiration from three different stories, Heaven Can Wait, Defending Your Life, and The Good Place, she delves into the idea of redemption and the human fascination with what happens after we depart from this world. While most of us may not have near-death experiences, Margaret suggests that we can use our Buddhist practice to create good deeds and positive karma, and avoid creating suffering for ourselves and others. T...2023-07-0312 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastDo Buddhists Have Near Death Experiences? In this episode, we delve into the significance of meditation practices that are specifically designed to aid us in preparing for the inevitable event of death. By partaking in these practices, we can gain valuable insight into the process of dying and death itself, ultimately enabling us to face this transformation with a sense of inner calm and peace. Moreover, not only does this preparation benefit our own journey toward the end, but it also equips us with the tools to support others in their own experience of death. We explore the notion that our own moment...2023-06-2612 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastMay You Be Hugged By 1,000 Grandma: Eric Bennett on Near Death Experiences.Special guest Eric Bennett, host of the Round Trip Death Podcast, shares how his interest in near-death experiences led him to start his podcast. Rather than sensationalizing these stories, Eric gives people a safe space to discuss what happened, providing listeners with insight into the sacredness of these experiences and the difficulty of putting them into words. In his time on the Death Dhamma podcast, Eric ties together the common themes that he has noted in his many discussions.  Some people decide to return Some people do not get to choose Some people experience a life r...2023-06-1928 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastNavigating the Shadows of Greed: Identifying Unskillful Attachment How do I know if I am being greedy? How do any of us know? Would you call yourself a greedy person? Probably not. But my friends, there might be times when we get caught up in the kind of greed that leads to unskillful attachment. How do we know? What do we do? A discussion on greed and how it can lead to unskillful attachment and suffering. Instead of avoiding enjoyment or appreciation of external objects or experiences, one should approach them with a sense of equanimity and mindfulness, recognizing that they are impermanent and cannot...2023-06-1214 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastThe Relationship Between Greed and AttachmentIn this episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, the theme of attachment is explored in the context of how it brings us suffering. The episode begins by discussing the concept of craving and how it leads to clinging, which is the root of suffering. The three fires or poisons of greed, hatred, and confusion are discussed as the sources of our need for clinging and aversion. The teachings emphasize the importance of extinguishing these fires and avoiding these poisons to achieve liberation. The episode also delves into the idea of unskillful desire or attachment, and how it...2023-06-0514 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastBreaking Down Attachment: Exploring Greed and Liberating the Mind with Dave Smith Margaret Meloni has a  conversation with Dave Smith of Dave Smith Dharma (davesmithdharma.com) about the common misunderstanding that attachment is the same as non-attachment or detachment when it is actually closer to the Pali word "loba", which translates to "greed". Dave explains how greed is unethical and unskillful and can lead to sacrificing one's own values and morals to acquire something, leading to suffering.   The conversation also touches on the "three fires" of greed, hatred, and confusion, which the Buddha discussed and which do not lead to contentment. Dave explains that Upadana, which means to cling and...2023-05-2943 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastJournaling the Difficulties, Fears, and Regrets of Facing DeathMargaret reflects on the fear of death and the challenges that may arise during the dying process. She shares her personal experience of losing loved ones and the resilience gained from Buddha's teachings and her Buddhist practice. Once again we are reminded of  the concept of letting go and accepting death as a gift, emphasizing the importance of preparing for death at both the spiritual and mundane level. Margaret contemplates her own fears around dying, including concerns for the well-being of her loved ones and unfinished tasks. She decides that meditating on potential key issues will help h...2023-05-2214 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastFinding Peace Through Letting Go: Navigating the Journey of Life and DeathIn this episode, Margaret delves into the concept of leaving things unfinished. We all do it, whether it's a to-do list or a long-term goal that we never quite achieved. But what about the ultimate unfinished task: death? We can find peace in the face of our own mortality by letting go of our attachments and being ready to leave at any time. Margaret shares a touching story of a family friend who found closure before passing away. His wife realized he was having a hard time letting go of life, so she arranged for his missing...2023-05-1515 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastEmbracing Death as a Gift: Overcoming Aversion and Supporting the Dying with Oliva BarehamIn this episode, Margaret interviews Olivia Bareham, founder of Sacred Crossings in Southern California, who helps individuals through the dying journey. Olivia has been supporting people through the dying journey for the last 20 years and for the last 15, she has been teaching conscious dying and death doula and death midwifery work. Olivia created Sacred Crossings Funeral Home (Sacredcrossings.com), which offers alternative funeral services such as home funerals, green burials, and full-body deep-sea burials, with the aim of helping people to care for their loved ones after death so that their own experience of death is more gentle and...2023-05-0831 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastJournaling and Thinking About the Intersection of Hope, Realism, and AttachmentIn this episode of the podcast, Margaret reflects on the concept of hope and clinging in situations where someone is sick, injured, or dying. She shares a personal anecdote of a friend's children contracting chicken pox and the introduction of a vaccine as an example of hope versus realism. Margaret then raises questions about the line between hope and clinging in scenarios where someone strives for healing beyond what is expected or accepted. Margaret also shares a personal experience of her father's terminal lung cancer and the acceptance and preparation for his eventual passing. She reflects on...2023-05-0114 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastEmbracing Non-Attachment: Why Taking Action and Making Plans Matter While some may believe that Buddhism is devoid of planning, it is a path toward a specific goal: the end of suffering. The Buddha actively decided to teach the cessation of suffering and shared a whole system of the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. However, he was not attached to the outcome of his teachings. He taught because some would understand and not convert a certain number of people.  As practitioners, we also follow a path and seek to become free from suffering. We may plan for our spiritual growth through studying and meditating, b...2023-04-2412 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastCayce Howe: Insights into Attachment and Compassion FatigueIn this episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, host Margaret Meloni, interviews Cayce Howe, a Dharma teacher and co-founder of Sustainable Caring. They discuss the topic of attachment, which is a key component of Buddhism and can lead to suffering if not managed properly. Cayce explains that the energy of compassion is endless, but when we become attached to a specific outcome, we may experience what is commonly known as compassion fatigue. However, Cayce argues that this fatigue is not caused by an exhaustion of compassion but rather by an attachment to a particular result. Cayce also...2023-04-1743 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastLetting Go of Constructed Selves: From Margaret’s Attachment JournalIn this episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, Margaret Meloni explores the concept of attachment, clinging, and aversion. She asks listeners to consider how they define themselves and whether they will let go of certain constructed versions of themselves. She shares two personal experiences of letting go of past versions of herself, including one where she clung to her identity as a computer programmer when teaching project management. She was reminded by a student that what mattered was whether she was the right person to teach the subject matter, not her past credentials. Margaret also shares her...2023-04-1017 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastExploring the Relationship Between Self and SufferingYou can find lots of discussions in terms of self-versus no self and what the Buddha really taught and what the Buddha really meant.  I am staying away from going into an in-depth discussion of these various interpretations. To share context, I speak to you as a Theravada Buddhist. And I draw on the teachings from the Pali Canon. I come from a place of working with teachings of these things are not self. As in the answer to this question: “And is it proper to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to cha...2023-04-0311 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastMary Stancavage: A Story of Letting GoIf you and I look at what makes us uncomfortable, that discomfort will show us where attachment lives. It could be things or ideas. Today with the help of Mary Stancavage we look at the should of self. As in I should be like this or that. Or if I am this way or that way, then people will like me. We cling to ideas of self, we cling to relationships because they are our identity. Because we are afraid of the alternative. Who am I if I am not this carefully constructed self that I have...2023-03-2730 minDeath Dhamma PodcastDeath Dhamma PodcastLearning to Embrace Discomfort: On Journaling AversionI looked around the room, and there I saw him. Someone I had once worked with, a person who I felt had been purposefully difficult and disrespectful. I found myself thinking, “Ugh, why is he here?” And my immediate thoughts were not friendly or positive. Now, I understand, this was me experiencing aversion. Specifically, because aversion involves pushing something away. And that act of pushing something away is not really gently setting something aside. It is more aggressive. Fair enough, I know that my first thoughts at seeing this former colleague fell into the category of p...2023-03-2014 minLove Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionLove Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionEpisode 220: Death with a Little "d" - Interview Margaret MeloniEpisode 220: Death with a Little "d" - Interview Margaret MeloniWhen a marriage fails, a friendship terminates, we find new wrinkles and new sagging skin, we lose a job or lose a beloved pet, the facts of impermanence stare, unblinking, at us. While logically we can acknowledge that impermanence is a matter of fact, a fact of life, it is also something we fear. We fear losing our youth, people and pets we love, a job that helps us define who we are, a way of life, wealth, etc. With that fear comes suffering. Learning to let...2022-06-0134 minAuthors Who Lead - Learn to write a book from bestselling authors and leadersAuthors Who Lead - Learn to write a book from bestselling authors and leaders178: Can Death Bring You Joy? With Margaret MeloniSend us a textIn this week’s episode of “Authors Who Lead,” I talk with Margaret about her newest book, "Sitting With Death: Buddhist Insights to Help You Face Your Fears and Live a Peaceful Life,” and how she feels that death can actually bring joy. Margaret Meloni has confronted death multiple times and, by turning to her Buddhist faith, she learned to make peace with the unknown. And as she studied and learned more about death, she found herself inspired to help others cope with it, too. What We Discuss with Margaret Meloni: Why...2021-11-0440 minThe PM ImperativeThe PM ImperativeThe Essence of Successful Project Management with Margaret Meloni – Owner of pmStudent.comMargaret Meloni, MBA, PhD is the pmStudent.com community leader. pmStudent.com is devoted to helping Project Managers successfully navigate the art and science of project management. Her background in IT Project Management and PMO Leadership, which enables Margaret to understand the challenges PMs face in managing projects. A recipient of the UCLA Extension Distinguished Instructors award, her wish is to […]2021-10-1125 minRest In PeaceRest In Peace#36 with Margaret Meloni - Death DhammaMargaret Meloni is a businessperson, Buddhist practitioner, and advocate for what she calls Death Dhamma. The practice of inviting the awareness of death into your life. She has seen how Buddhism, combined with a healthy respect for the Grim Reaper, has helped her create a life with more peace and less suffering. She is also a podcaster and author. In this episode we discussed: Accepting death as an essential part of lifeThe Buddhist's outlook on sufferingMargaret's new book Sitting With Death: Buddhist Insights to Help You Face Your Fears and Live a Peaceful Life  "I'm no...2021-09-2529 minFind the Good News with Oran ParkerFind the Good News with Oran ParkerEp. 109 - The Law of Change - Beacon Series Ft. Margaret Meloni, Ph.D. - Find the Good News with Brother Oran You’re listening to Find the Good News, Episode 109, “The Law of Change,” A Beacon Series conversation featuring Margaret Meloni, Ph.D., host of the Death Dhamma podcast and author of "Carpooling With Death: How Living With Death Will Make You Stronger, Wiser, and Fearless" - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - There is a small note tacked to a piece of corkboard near my desk, the letters stark white against an inky black square. These words, "CHANGE IS THE LAW," have stared back at me from this s...2021-03-232h 06Love Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionLove Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionEpisode 146 Carpooling With Death: Finding Peace in Loss – Interview Margaret MeloniEpisode 146 Carpooling With Death: Finding Peace in Loss – Interview Margaret Meloni   In my teens I loved the book series The Incarnations of Immortality. Thantos/Grim Reaper was one of my favorite characters.  As an adult, I guess that fascination held over because I dress up as the Grim Reaper for Halloween every year. I have a real scythe hung from the pegboard in my garage. That being said, for all the interest in the incarnation itself, I have only had my grandparent’s die and when my son was diagnosed with leukemia my mind would occasi...2019-07-3144 minProject Management ParadiseProject Management ParadiseEpisode 87: “Managing politics at work” with Margaret MeloniWelcome back, today it is my pleasure to introduce you to Margaret Meloni. Margaret has over 18 years in Corporate America which included roles in Fortune 500 management. Margaret creates project managers who have the skills & knowledge to navigate the art & science of project management. You will find links to Margaret’s LinkedIn Profile and websites in the show notes at projectmanagementparadise.com/87 We’d also welcome an honest review about this podcast on iTunes and you will find a direct link to do this at projectmanagementparadise.com Thanks again for list...2018-02-2317 minLove Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionLove Your Story: Stories and discussions about personal growth, mindset and living with intentionEpisode 43 Interview with Margaret Meloni – BUSINESS Leaders Speak the Language of StoriesInterview with Margaret Meloni  MBA, PMP Margaret is a speaker, writer, and teacher who supports project managers with the art and science of project management. Margaret understands that managing projects can be difficult and this is why her goal is to provide her community with knowledge and skills that can be used on the job RIGHT NOW! Her wish is to see her students take on tough projects and emerge as strong and sought after project managers. Margaret is a recipient of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Distinguished Instructor Award and a co...2017-07-1224 minNeil Thompson Speaks!Neil Thompson Speaks!Neil Thompson Speaks! - Margaret MeloniOnce a programmer, then a project manager and IT executive, and now a coach. Margaret Meloni has had an interesting journey. After suffering the indignity of being laid off, she decided that enough was enough and launched her coaching business, Meloni Coaching Solutions. She offers online courses and counsels clients one-on-one. She gives her clients the freedom to be their authentic selves at work and the knowledge of how to address conflict as opposed to how to avoid it. I look forward to chatting with Margaret about her transition to coaching, the inspiration for her online programs, and future plans.2017-01-3000 minProject Management Podcast: Project Management for the Masses with Cesar Abeid, PMPProject Management Podcast: Project Management for the Masses with Cesar Abeid, PMPProject Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management. The post Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni) appeared first on PM for the Masses.2014-10-2238 minProject Management for YouProject Management for YouProject Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management. The post Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni) appeared first on PM for the Masses.2014-10-2238 minPM For You – PM for the MassesPM For You – PM for the MassesProject Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management.2014-10-2238 minPM for the MassesPM for the MassesProject Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management. The post Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni) appeared first on PM for the Masses.2014-10-2238 minPodcast Archives -Podcast Archives -Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management. The post Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni) appeared first on PM for the Masses.2014-10-2238 minProject Management for YouProject Management for YouProject Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni)Margaret Meloni, project management expert, author, and speaker, shares with me her take on the basics of Project Management. The post Project Management for You with Margaret Meloni (@MargaretMeloni) appeared first on PM for the Masses.2014-10-2238 minPM for the MassesPM for the Masses004 The Work Breakdown Structure with Margaret MeloniHere we are with episode 4 of the PM for the Masses Podcast!  Thank you for listening and for giving me such amazing feedback.  I am so happy that the show is resonating with you... The post 004 The Work Breakdown Structure with Margaret Meloni appeared first on PM for the Masses.2013-07-2557 minPodcast Archives -Podcast Archives -004 The Work Breakdown Structure with Margaret MeloniHere we are with episode 4 of the PM for the Masses Podcast!  Thank you for listening and for giving me such amazing feedback.  I am so happy that the show is resonating with you... The post 004 The Work Breakdown Structure with Margaret Meloni appeared first on PM for the Masses.2013-07-2557 min