Episodes

  • E38 - Zen, Identity & The Game of Childhood

    E38 - Zen, Identity & The Game of Childhood
    Apr 3 2026
    In this episode, Scott and Paul pivot to a new series: The Games of Life. They explore why Zen is the 'Master Game' that prevents us from taking social rules too seriously. By deconstructing the Game of Childhood and the Game of Education, they reveal how our earliest 'characters' are built and how Zen practice helps us question the identities we've carried since the playground."Detailed Episode Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & The Philly-Boulder ConnectionScott and Paul check in from their respective coasts, discussing the seasonal shift as Paul prepares for the Spring Equinox retreat in Boulder’s uncharacteristically warm 80-degree weather.01:15 – March Madness & Rooting InterestsA brief detour into college hoops where Paul puts his money on Rick Pitino and St. John’s, while Scott sticks to his roots with the UConn men’s and women’s powerhouse programs.02:10 – Defining the "Master Game" of ZenThe hosts introduce a new series structure: viewing life as a collection of "games" (business, success, romance) and using Zen as the Master Game that makes all other social games more fluid and less "brutal."03:45 – The Game of Childhood: Initial Rule SetsThe conversation begins at birth, exploring how we don't choose our "starting map." They discuss how parents and environments dictate our early rules—like learning to eat, walk, and seek approval.06:20 – Choosing Your "Game Piece" (Identity)Using a Dungeons & Dragons metaphor, Paul explains how childhood is the first step in creating our "character" or avatar based on the messages we receive from family and society.07:40 – Belongingness & Tribal AffiliationScott reflects on his own childhood friend groups and the "game of peerhood," while Paul highlights the deep relational dynamics of negotiating who "our people" are and how we handle being "kicked out" of a group.10:15 – From Insecurity to AwarenessScott shares his personal journey from being a shy, "average" student to finding confidence later in life, illustrating how a good player of the game learns to grow and change their internal narrative.11:55 – Why Mindfulness is Hard for KidsPaul explains why he rarely teaches formal Zen to pre-teens, noting that their developmental stage makes it difficult to "quiet down," and that a "little taste" of mindfulness is usually more effective than a full practice.13:30 – The Three Components of Sincere PracticePaul outlines the "perfect storm" that leads to a spiritual path: experiencing the distress of an overactive mind, a glimpse that you are causing your own problems, and exposure to a practice that offers a solution.15:10 – The Game of Education & The "Book of Knowledge"A deep dive into how school feeds our ego. Zen challenges the "expert identity" by encouraging us to question everything we’ve learned—including scientific truths—and to detach our self-worth from test scores or credentials.18:50 – Sangha: Intentional BelongingThe hosts contrast "going along to get along" with the Zen concept of Sangha—a community built on shared values, vows, and conscious intention rather than just social convenience.20:15 – Family Karma & Conditioned IdentityA look at how siblings can have wildly different "games" based on where their parents were in life at the time, reinforcing the idea that our childhood identities are conditioned qualities rather than our true nature.23:20 – The Toddler Analogy: Learning to WalkPaul shares a powerful teaching from his master: spiritual practice is like a toddler learning to walk. They fall "over and over and over," but they never decide to give up—they just keep getting back up.25:00 – Closing: Transitioning to the Game of ParentingScott wraps up the session with a teaser for the next episode, where they will shift from being the "child player" to the "parent coach," exploring how our own upbringings influence how we raise the next generation.Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    37 mins
  • E37 - The Year in Review - Navigating the Paradigm Shifts Ahead

    E37 - The Year in Review - Navigating the Paradigm Shifts Ahead
    Mar 13 2026
    In this episode of the Game of Zen podcast, hosts Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo reflect on their conversations from 2025 to synthesize their core teachings and look ahead toward 2026. Utilizing NotebookLM to map out their previous content, the hosts introduce an AI-generated infographic shaped like a tree to represent the four primary "branches" of their practice: Navigating Paradigm Shifts, Cultivating Wisdom and Independence, Managing Mindset and Anxiety, and Community and Connection.Episode Show Notes00:00 – Introduction and 2025 Reflections Scott and Paul open the show by discussing the transition into February and their process of reflecting on the conversations and lessons from 2025.01:21 – Leveraging AI for Conceptual Modeling Paul discusses the "brilliant" utility of NotebookLM in creating visual infographics and slide decks to map out complex content pillars, such as "The Six Realms of LinkedIn".02:40 – The Four Branches of the "Game of Zen" Tree The hosts introduce an AI-generated infographic shaped like a tree with the Buddha at the center. The four primary branches represent the core themes of the podcast: Navigating Paradigm Shifts, Cultivating Wisdom and Independence, Managing Mindset and Anxiety, and Community and Connection.04:45 – Branch 1: Navigating Paradigm Shifts (Inner and Outer Games) A deep dive into the shift from a behavioral, "outer-focused" game space to an inner-focused space informed by Zen rules. Scott and Paul discuss the "Bodhicattva shift"—turning your personal history into purpose by transforming Karma (conditioned existence) into Dharma (wisdom/compassion).08:34 – Branch 2: Cultivating Wisdom, Independence, and Sovereignty The hosts define the "goal" of the Game of Zen. Unlike the "karmic game" of material success, this path focuses on Prajna (wisdom), Karuna (compassion), and true sovereignty. They emphasize that while everyone forges their own unique path, the effort put into the journey is what cultivates goodness.11:35 – "Rolling Experience into Practice" Paul explains a key vow from the Fusatsu ceremony: the commitment to roll every experience—regardless of whether it is "good" or "bad"—into one’s practice.12:51 – Branch 3: Managing Mindset and Anxiety (The Skills of the Game) Discussion on the internal skills required to play the game, including managing reactivity and embracing impermanence. The hosts use a sports training analogy to explain how mindful mastery helps one handle high-pressure moments in business and personal life.17:53 – Branch 4: Community and Connection Exploring why you can't play the "Game of Zen" alone. They discuss the importance of the Sangha, the roles of coaches and mentors, and how to maintain Zen practice when interacting with people who are playing different "social games".21:05 – Aging and the Evolution of Practice Scott and Paul reflect on how the "game" changes as you age. They emphasize that while smarts may come with age, wisdom is earned through consistent meditation and updating one's practice to fit shifting life circumstances.22:56 – Looking Ahead to 2026: Navigating Global Breakdown Paul shares his perspective on the coming year, anticipating a dramatic breakdown and dissolution of traditional international, political, and economic orders. They argue that the millennia-old rules of Zen are the most reliable tools for empowering your life during these challenging times.25:52 – Why You Can’t Play the "Game of Zen" Alone The hosts transition into the fourth branch of their "Game of Zen" tree: Community and Connection. Paul explains that while you can play a game like golf alone, you lack a real assessment of your progress without others. He emphasizes that this stage is about harmonizing your wisdom and "awakeness" with other beings.27:15 – Shifting from Social Games to the "Main Game" Paul shares a personal reflection on the gift of shifting focus away from karmic or social games. He describes a "role-playing" approach to life, where he may pretend to play conventional social games while his "main game" remains the internal practice of Zen. This shift allows for collaboration rather than competition when engaging with others on the same path.29:20 – Navigating a World That "Isn't Playing the Game" A discussion on the "trickiness" of maintaining Zen practice when interacting with people who are not on a Buddhist path. Paul notes that because most people are playing different "games," it is essential to have a community of other players to provide support and guidance.30:30 – From "Rookie" to the Big Leagues: The Role of Coaches Scott shares his experience moving from a "rookie Buddhist" to higher levels of practice. He compares the Zen community to a sports team, where players need teammates, opponents, and coaches to help them "raise their level". Paul agrees, noting that while one must forge their own path, guides and veteran players are essential to the journey.32:15 – Aging, ...
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    36 mins
  • E36 - The Boardroom Bodhisattva: Mark Thornton on Spirituality and Investment Banking

    E36 - The Boardroom Bodhisattva: Mark Thornton on Spirituality and Investment Banking
    Mar 6 2026
    Can you find enlightenment on a London Underground platform or in the middle of a £25 million corporate crisis? In this episode of Game of Zen, hosts Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo Agostinelli sit down with Mark Thornton, former COO of JPMorgan Private Bank and author of Meditation in a New York Minute. Mark shares his radical journey from a "caffeine-addicted stress junkie" in the high-stakes world of global finance to a renowned Zen teacher and leadership consultant for Wharton and Harvard Law.Mark demystifies the idea that spiritual practice requires a mountaintop, offering instead a "micro-dosing" approach to mindfulness designed for the world’s busiest professionals. This conversation explores how to break the false correlation between stress and results, and why 5% of Wall Street is quietly fueling a spiritual revolution.Show Notes & Timestamps[0:00] – Introduction to Game of Zen Hosts Scott Berman and Paul Guyoto Augustineelli introduce the podcast's mission: exploring the intersection of professional, personal, and spiritual growth through the lens of Zen.[1:25] – Meet Mark Thornton An overview of Mark’s background as the former COO of JPMorgan Private Bank in London, a best-selling author, and an instructor for leadership programs at Wharton Business School and Harvard Law School.[3:45] – The Catalyst: A Father’s Miracle and a Childhood Awakening Mark shares the story of his father’s terminal cancer diagnosis and subsequent 25-year survival, which led to Mark's first profound awakening experience at age 13.[6:15] – Banking: "Where Awakening Goes to Die" Mark describes his life as a "caffeine-addicted stress junkie" in London's high-finance world, struggling to find the 20 minutes for traditional meditation while his physical health suffered.[10:30] – The £25 Million Crisis and the Tube Station Epiphany How spiritual practice Bore fruit during a corporate merger crisis and a transformative experience of "divine light" while standing on a London Underground platform.[14:10] – "I'm Pregnant with a Book": Leaving JP Morgan The story of Mark asking for a year off to write, being told no by his boss, and ultimately leaving the bank to meet 32 spiritual teachers across 13 countries.[19:45] – The "New York Minute" Method Explaining the breakthrough concept of "micro-dosing" mindfulness: practicing in small, cumulative moments throughout the day rather than one long consecutive session.[24:00] – Corporate Spirituality: Wall Street’s Thirst for Wisdom Mark discusses bringing "Corporate Spirituality" to Goldman Sachs and finding that, while 85% of Wall Street may not be interested, 5% are "thirsty" for deep spiritual tools.[30:20] – Relanguaging Spirituality for the "Untouched" The challenge of translating ancient wisdom for people who feel "too busy" for meditation and avoiding jargon like Sanskrit to reach a broader audience.[36:15] – Rapid Cycling and Global Consciousness A discussion on how the modern "chaos" of the world (AI, geopolitics) acts as fuel for awakening, forcing individuals to bump up against their limitations and seek healing.[43:40] – The Three Sacred Marriages Integrating the three areas of life: Self, Work, and Others. Mark and Paul discuss the importance of not bypassing professional or relational paths in favor of a monastic life.[48:10] – Leading with Love: Transforming the Boardroom Practical advice on seeing work as a platform for love and wisdom, including how to transform annual appraisals into sacred exchanges.[52:30] – Final Zen Wisdom and Closing Quotes Mark shares his favorite Zen quotes: "In meditation there are only ever beginners" and "To disturb something is to be attached to it".Meditation in a New York Minute - https://www.amazon.com/Meditation-New-York-Minute-Super/dp/1591794293Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/One Body Sangha - https://www.onebodysangha.org/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    48 mins
  • E35 - The Bodhisattva Shift: Turning Your Karma into Your Dharma

    E35 - The Bodhisattva Shift: Turning Your Karma into Your Dharma
    Nov 28 2025
    This podcast episode, "From Karma to Dharma," Hosts Scott & Paul explore the concept of the Bodhisattva—an archetypal energy in Mahayana Buddhism focused on personal awakening and helping others do the same. The discussion centers on making a fundamental shift in perspective: moving away from an obsessive focus on karma (personal, conditioned circumstances and plans) to embracing dharma (one's wisdom, teachings, and participation in the bigger, interdependent mystery of life). The hosts discuss how this shift lessens personal suffering, combats "monkey mind" habits (like analysis paralysis and catastrophizing), and brings greater meaning and spiritual growth by allowing one to turn life's conditions into wisdom that can help others.⏱️ Timestamped Summary0:00 Introduction & Host Catch-up: Scott Berman welcomes Sensei Paul Gyodo. They briefly discuss Paul's recent trip to the East Coast, noting the cultural differences.2:30 Introducing the Topic: From Karma to Dharma: The episode's focus is introduced: Paul's latest newsletter on Bodhisattvas—how to recognize them and become one.3:10Norman Fischer Quote & Defining Bodhisattva: Paul shares the quote: "Bodhicattvas don't mind much what happens to them. Their lives are larger than the plans they may have had for them." Paul defines the Bodhicattva as the Mahayana Buddhist ideal—a being that seeks awakening not just for themselves but to help others.5:35 The Shift from Personal Gravity: Discussion on how the Bodhicattva mindset moves beyond obsession with one's own plans, problems, and personal gravity, recognizing a larger context and interdependent reality.7:00 The Value of Helping Others: Scott shares his experience that helping others (using his gained knowledge) makes him feel better about his own internal problems, aligning with the Bodhisattva ethos.8:45 Plans and the Monkey Mind: Discussing the humor in making plans ("How do you make God laugh? Tell her your plans.") and how getting caught up in the perception of what should happen fuels the "monkey mind" when things inevitably change.10:45 Ignorance as the Root Poison: Referencing the Buddha's three poisons (greed, hatred, and ignorance). Paul emphasizes that ignorance is the most difficult, particularly the self-limiting view of ourselves as isolated and smaller than we truly are.12:50 Internal Ignorance & Limited Identity: Further discussion on the internal layer of ignorance—believing that our ideas about reality are reality, and limiting our identity to our conditioned life (education, biology, etc.).14:00 Bodhisattva Ethos: The Parental Mind: Scott connects the Bodhicattva's desire to help to the realization of one's ability to help people, especially seeing it through parenting—the parental mind is an animating spirit of the Bodhicattva.15:40 Minimizing Maladaptive Habits ("Weather System"): Using the analogy of a weather system to deal with overwhelming internal conditions (like workaholism, catastrophizing). You take refuge and wait for them to pass, rather than trying to stop the storm.18:50 Turning Karma into Dharma (The Core Reframe): Paul explains his expression: "Bodhisattva turns their karma... into their dharma." Karma is the conditioned life resulting from choices; Dharma is one's wisdom, teachings, and path. The shift is viewing life's circumstances not as limitations but as material for wisdom.21:20 The Eightfold Path as a Skill Set: Scott connects this reframe to the Eightfold Path—using its components (Right View, Right Speech, etc.) as a way to assess and learn from past actions, thus gaining wisdom.22:45 The Crisis of Meaning: Paul discusses the current societal "crisis of meaning" and how a karmic, personal-assessment focus cannot provide a solid foundation for meaning. Dharma—seeing life as a spiritual unfolding—provides a sound, non-contingent basis for meaning.25:30 Technology and Collective Karma: Discussing how technology amplifies both good (influence) and bad (discord). The need to suffer the collective afflictions (zeitgeist) to be motivated to bring forth the positive, especially through human connection.27:50 Internal Work Leads to External Benefits: The internal work (dharma) leads to external benefits (positive karma). Discussing the difference between positive (wholeness/thriving) and negative (separation/suffering) karma, and the power of small, kind actions.30:30 Personal vs. Collective Karma: Explaining that personal karma is resolved personally, while collective karma (social/political issues) must be resolved collectively. Individual action should focus on joining collectives working toward positive change.32:15 Spiritual Wealth vs. Material Wealth: Scott uses the analogy of Warren Buffett's giving pledge to pivot to the idea of building spiritual wealth (wisdom/dharma), which is equally, if not more, valuable than material wealth.34:00 Conclusion & Next Steps: Paul offers the final takeaway: everyone has the ability to turn their karma ...
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    34 mins
  • E34 - Mindful Mastery: Dukkha, Deficiency, and the Discipline of Attention

    E34 - Mindful Mastery: Dukkha, Deficiency, and the Discipline of Attention
    Nov 21 2025
    Hosts Scott and Paul discuss the interplay between Zen Buddhist principles and everyday life, focusing on the concept of insufficiency or "not enoughness," which the first truth of Buddhism identifies as the root of suffering. The hosts explore how this sense of lack manifests across six key categories—time, money, people, information, energy, and attention—while sharing personal anecdotes and philosophical insights. A central theme is the importance of attention as the one resource individuals have the most control over, with the hosts ultimately advising listeners to focus on the resources they possess rather than those they lack. The discussion also touches on achieving happiness by embracing the idea that "every day is a good day," including those marked by setbacks or illness, and by shifting one’s focus toward inspired vows rather than solely personal satisfaction.0:00 - 1:04 Introduction: Welcome, hosts, location, and the episode's central theme: the interrelation of professional, personal, and spiritual growth, and the application of Zen principles to address the "not enoughness" that causes suffering. 1:04 - 2:07 Setting the Stage & Current Events: Scott checks in; Paul discusses being sick and recovering; brief mention of Halloween and the hosts' activities (Scott's Sixers costume).2:07 - 4:47 The Six Resources of Insufficiency: Introduction of the episode's main topic: Paul's newsletter on "not enoughness" and the six categories of resources: Time, Money, People, Information, Energy, and Attention. Discussion of Dukkha (suffering) as insufficiency and the cultural obsession with Time and Money.4:47 - 12:44 Deep Dive: Time: The "adversarial relationship" with time; the limitations of linear/chronological time; introducing the qualitative dimension of time (depth, focus, attention); Oliver Burkeman's 4,000 Weeks. Discussion on maximizing precious time, the futility of worrying about the past/future, and the Zen koan: "Every day is a good day."12:44 - 17:34 The Role of Attention (Master Ikyu's Story): How the idea of a "bad day" creates suffering; the cause of insufficiency as the gap between ideas and reality; Attention as the most controllable resource. Master Ikyu's teaching on attention; putting attention on what you have versus what you're lacking.17:34 - 22:58 Information and Energy: Scott's struggle with information intake; the balance between information/energy/time; tuning into intuitive sources of information and the body's energy (qi); how meditation helps manage time and energy; the wastefulness of worrying and stress.22:58 - 30:57 Deep Dive: People: Scott's struggle with not having enough time for everyone; making the most of contact; holding people in a "circle of awareness" even when not physically present; the energy drawn from quality relationships; the importance of maintaining networks. The vital step of feeling the deficiency/lack (loneliness, lack of money) and letting it motivate positive action, rather than denying it.30:57 - 35:05 The Achievement Treadmill and Vows: The sadness of successful people driven only by making more money; the hook of achievement and how it relates to self-worth; the quote on being disconnected from "inspired vows" and being caught in the "sticky web of too much and not enough." The solution: opening up to a bigger world/aspiration to embrace suffering.35:05 - 35:56 Conclusion: Final thoughts, the "Game of Zen" being about attention, and sign-off.Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/One Body Sangha - https://www.onebodysangha.org/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    33 mins
  • E33 - Problem Seeking Mind - Zen Tools for finding peace in dangerous times

    E33 - Problem Seeking Mind - Zen Tools for finding peace in dangerous times
    Oct 10 2025
    This conversation, "The Game of Zen," covers four key "self-evident truths" from Paul's "Zen Shift" newsletter and the essential practice of mindful living when navigating difficult, tumultuous times.The Zen Shift in FocusThis thought-provoking episode of The Game of Zen centers on the "Zen Shift"—the profound change in perspective needed to counter the psychological danger of holding false or distorted views about life. The hosts meticulously examine deep-seated societal distortions, such as the overwhelming tendency to link self-worth exclusively to tireless hard work and the perilous trap of the "problem seeking mind" that remains hyper-vigilant and obsessively focused on non-existential threats. The remedy, as discussed by Sensei Paul, involves consciously moving past the pervasive cultural belief in the scarcity of resources (the Buddhist concept of dukkha or insufficiency) and the ultimate delusion that one is in absolute control of external events. Instead, a dedicated daily practice is required to "zoom in" on one's present quality of mind and body, ultimately allowing one to live a more secure, grounded, and genuinely happy life.00:00Podcast Introduction The hosts, Scott and Sensei Paul, introduce the Game of Zen podcast, focusing on the interrelation of professional, personal, and spiritual growth through Zen and mindfulness.01:21 Hosts' Check-in & News Scott checks in from Philadelphia, mentioning his upcoming trip to Abu Dhabi to work the Sixers' preseason games. Paul shares his experience starting a 90-day intensive period with his Zen community in Boulder.02:00 Introduction to "Zen Shift" Scott introduces the main topic, Paul's latest newsletter, "Zen Shift," which addresses living in "dangerous times" and managing world division, angst, and violence with Zen tools.03:22 Truth 1: Life is Hard Discussion on the first "self-evident truth": "Life is hard and we must earn our keep." They discuss cultural programming, the overemphasis on work to prove self-worth, and the challenge of balancing this with a more thriving, less individualistic life.07:44 Truth 2: Anxiety is Necessary Discussion on the second truth: "A constant state of busyness and anxiety is not only natural but necessary." Paul explains the "problem-seeking mind," hypervigilance, and the need to reframe the idea of a "problem" by starting with what one wants to manifest instead of what needs to be solved.12:56 The News and Hypervigilance Scott discusses his struggle with local news and the constant exposure to negative events. Paul shares his recent success with a "news diet," noting the immediate positive impact on his base level of anxiety and sleep.15:47 Truth 3: Resources are Scarce Discussion on the third truth: "Time, money, and other resources are constantly in scarce supply." They relate this to the Buddhist concept of Dukka (insufficiency) and the "sense of not enoughness." Paul reframes currency as a "flow" and encourages entering into the current of what one does have.26:17 Truth 4: Make It On Your Own Discussion on the fourth truth: "We must make it on our own. Relying on society is naive." They discuss the anxiety produced by the cultural emphasis on individualism and the healing power of recognizing our fundamental place in an interdependent web.31:49 The Danger of Control Discussion of the quote: "You live every day dreaming that you're in control..." Paul relates the story of the Zen master known as Bird's Nest Roshi to illustrate how believing one can control external events is the real danger, especially when one doesn't know their internal self.36:34 Final Teaching & Self-Care They discuss the essential teaching of the Dharma: "Commit no evil, do good deeds." They emphasize the importance of self-care and practicing compassion toward oneself, recognizing that a full, healthy self is essential for meeting others' needs clearly.38:59 Closing Remarks Scott and Paul wrap up the episode, encouraging listeners to check out the "Zen Shift" newsletter and consider coaching.Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/One Body Sangha - https://www.onebodysangha.org/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    32 mins
  • E32 - The Zen Shift: Navigating the Outer and Inner Paradigm Shifts

    E32 - The Zen Shift: Navigating the Outer and Inner Paradigm Shifts
    Sep 5 2025
    The Game of Zen Podcast: The Outer and Inner ShiftsHosts Scott Berman and Sensei Paul explore a global paradigm shift from a materialist to an animist understanding of reality, emphasizing the primacy of consciousness. They examine the accelerating pace of change, particularly with technological advancements like AI, and advocate for an inner shift towards presence, non-control, and a mind of not knowing to navigate this rapid transformation. The conversation highlights the importance of human connection, compassion, and self-awareness as essential tools for flourishing in an ever-evolving world, recommending resources like Paul's "The Zen Shift" newsletter.0:00 - 5:20 | Introduction and The Outer ShiftHosts Scott Berman and Sensei Paul introduce the episode, focusing on the interconnectedness of professional, personal, and spiritual growth. Paul discusses the evolution of his newsletter from "Zen at Work Today" to "The Zen Shift," which reflects a broader global paradigm shift that is impossible to compartmentalize. This "outer shift" moves society from a materialist worldview, which struggles to explain consciousness, to a new animist paradigm where consciousness is understood as primary.5:20 - 15:15 | The Acceleration of ChangeThe hosts explore the unprecedented acceleration of change in modern times. Scott highlights rapid technological advancements like AI and neuroplasticity. Paul quantifies this, noting a "20x acceleration factor" over millennia, which means shifts that once took generations now happen in years. They discuss the challenges this poses, as traditional worldviews cannot adapt quickly enough, leading to an "uncontrolled way" of change.15:15 - 25:00 | The Inner Shift: Navigating ChangeThe conversation shifts to managing the destabilizing external changes through an "inner shift." Paul emphasizes using the "mind of meditation" to cultivate presence and an intimate relationship with one's being. This involves cultivating clarity (wisdom) and capacity (compassion) to stay grounded amid challenges, rather than being subject to the "whims of the world." The key is to be the "eye of the hurricane."25:00 - 32:40 | Interconnectedness and Engaged BuddhismThe hosts discuss the transition from a view of isolated individuals to one of profound interconnectedness. Paul and Scott highlight that the new paradigm recognizes that all beings arise from the same fundamental element. This aligns with Thich Nhat Hanh's concept of "interbeing" and "engaged Buddhism," which emphasizes that simple acts of kindness affect everyone. They stress that compassion is essential to counteract the egoic nature of the old materialist paradigm.32:40 - 38:00 | Personal Practices and Meaning-MakingScott and Paul share their personal strategies for navigating these shifts. Scott’s practices include meditation, getting out in nature, and seeking support from mentors and friends. He highlights the importance of surrender and acknowledging you can't "figure everything out." Paul discusses the opportunity to become the center of your own sense-making by relying on personal sensory experience and creating meaning through one’s own intentions and commitments.38:00 - End | ConclusionThe conversation concludes by reiterating that navigating the shift is a "daily thing" and a "work in progress." They encourage listeners to use the "Game of Zen" principles as a foundational rock to help handle daily life. Paul's newsletter, "The Zen Shift," and other resources are recommended for continued learning and support.Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/One Body Sangha - https://www.onebodysangha.org/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    33 mins
  • E31 - The End of Folly: The Path to Wisdom and Goodness

    E31 - The End of Folly: The Path to Wisdom and Goodness
    Aug 22 2025
    This podcast episode from "The Game of Zen" features hosts Scott Berman and Sensei Paul discussing the interrelatedness of professional, personal, and spiritual growth. They explore life teachings from the Buddha and Zen mindfulness practices to enhance "wholehearted work, life, and play." A core theme is the evolution of an individual's moral sense, moving from confusion and loyalty through fairness and justice, eventually reaching higher levels of benevolence and goodness. Drawing on a Daoist quote, they also examine how the "Dao"—being organically integrated with the world's wisdom—can be lost through attachment to external conditions and attempts to control the future, emphasizing the importance of a "mind of not knowing" and embracing life's challenges wholeheartedly rather than avoiding them.Conversation Timeline[02:45] Scott introduces the main topic of the episode, a quote from Paul's newsletter titled, "The End of Folly, Beyond Performative Loyalty, Goodness, and Wisdom." He reads a quote about the evolution of individual moral senses, from confusion to goodness.[04:00] Paul expands on the concept of consciousness evolution, explaining the different levels from folly (confusion) to benevolence (well-meaning) and goodness (well-doing).[07:15] Scott asks how aging and natural maturity combine with intentional practice to accelerate personal growth. Paul responds by explaining that this progression involves opening oneself up to more responsibility and capacity.[11:00] The discussion shifts to the application of these principles in different aspects of life, including career. Paul introduces the levels of "job," "career," and "vocation."[13:00] Scott shares a personal story about his daughter's recent promotion, using it as an example of reaching a new "level" of growth.[14:40] Scott reads another quote from the newsletter, this one from Laozi about the Dao. The quote outlines a degradation from Dao (wisdom) to goodness, kindness, justice, and ultimately, folly.[16:40] Paul provides a deeper explanation of the Daoist quote, noting that it works backward from the highest state of being organically integrated with the universe's unfolding wisdom.[19:00] Scott asks how one loses and regains the Dao. Paul explains that it is lost by attaching to stimulation, trying to control the world, or being self-centered. He also introduces the concept of "life living life as life."[22:00] The hosts discuss the mind of "not knowing" and how a sense of certainty can be the "beginning of folly." Scott uses the example of his knowledge of the Sixers basketball team, admitting he still can't predict the outcome.[26:30] They talk about how a higher level of internal defense helps handle external strangeness. Paul introduces the Zen perspective on overcoming challenges by "going into them," using the quote, "When hot be hot, when cold be cold."[30:00] Scott shares his personal practices for overcoming obstacles, including seeking good doctors, maintaining healthy habits, being vulnerable, and being honest with friends and family.[34:00] The conversation turns to the comparison between the Buddha's eight-fold path and reaching the Dao. Paul explains the parallel relationship, stating that Zen is considered a combination of Daoism and Buddhism.[36:00] The hosts wrap up the episode. Paul teases the new title of his newsletter, "The Zen Shift," and encourages listeners to check it out.[37:00] The episode concludes with a final message to the listeners, encouraging them to subscribe and continue their journey of mindful living.Game of Zen links:Sam Sokyo is an artist, meditation teacher, recovery coach, and Zen pilgrim on wandering retreat in the North American West -- https://cloudsandwater.substack.com/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xvPaul AgostinelliOne Body Sangha -- https://www.onebodysangha.org/Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/The Zen Shift Newsletter - https://thezenshift.substack.com/One Body Sangha - https://www.onebodysangha.org/Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com#GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship#Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment #Impermenance
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    32 mins