Living Clarity - podcast cover

Living Clarity

Kadampa Buddhismkadampa.org
Welcome to Kadampa podcasts, where we explore the art of living a happier and more fulfilling life through the teachings and meditations of Kadampa Buddhism. Buddhism is a philosophy and way of life that has been practiced for centuries, and its principles can be applied to our modern world to help us navigate the challenges of daily life with greater ease and compassion. In these podcasts, we'll delve into the core concepts of Buddhist meditation, such as mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom, and explore how they can be applied to our daily lives to cultivate a greater sense of peace, clarity and happiness. Each episode is an inspiring extract taken from a teaching given by various Kadampa Buddhist meditation teachers worldwide. Whether you're new to Buddhism or have been practicing for years, these podcasts are for anyone looking to live a more peaceful and fulfilling life. So join us on this journey of self-discovery and transformation as we explore the timeless wisdom of Buddhism and its practical applications for modern living.
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Episodes

Escaping the prison of your own mind

We live in a “luxurious prison”—comfortable but deceptive. If we don’t recognize our distorted mental constructs, we stay trapped. But by training the mind through spiritual paths and developing renunciation, we can escape suffering and help others do the same. Gen Devi explains Samsara based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Jul 21, 202516 min

Freedom from the pain and fear of loss

In this moving episode, Gen Gomlam explores the deep emotional pain that arises from our attachments to others. Whether through loss or the fear of losing someone, attachment often becomes a source of ongoing suffering that robs us of inner peace. Gen Gomlam gently challenges us to look beyond the surface of grief and recognize that it is not loss itself, but our attachment, that causes us pain. Through compassionate insight, she shows us how we can begin to let go of attachment—without letting ...

Jul 07, 202522 min

Learning From The People Who Challenge You

Kadam Morten talks about how to make sure our relationships are not just harmonious but an opportunity for spiritual growth. Our relationships, even the most challenging ones, become powerful tools for transformation when we understand the benefit of having those challenges in our life. Then, every interaction becomes an opportunity to grow, turning life itself into a meaningful journey toward inner freedom and lasting happiness. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyat...

Jun 30, 202518 min

Finding balance in an unbalanced world

In this talk given at Tara KMC Dublin, Kadam Adam Starr encourages us to find balance in our lives—particularly the balance between inner and outer development. He explains that it is through finding this balance that we gain the ability to enjoy our good conditions and achievements, develop harmonious relationships, and, especially, the strength to deal with life’s challenges. Based on the teachings of Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Jun 23, 202521 min

Are the body and mind the same?

In this podcast, we explore the profound question: Are the body and mind one and the same? Drawing on the logical insights of the Buddha, we examine how the body and mind are, in fact, distinct entities. Understanding this difference can transform the way we experience and live our lives. Join us as we reflect on compelling reasons and everyday examples that reveal the separation between body and mind. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. This is an extract of a ...

Jun 16, 202518 min

The Power of Genuine Confidence

Gen Demo illustrates the difference between deluded pride and genuine confidence, revealing three essential forms of self-confidence: in our potential, in our positive actions, and in our ability to overcome obstacles. Through these insights, we learn to cultivate a stable mind free from arrogance or self-doubt. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso.

Jun 09, 202521 min

Free yourself from stress

In this talk Gen Devi shows how our self-centered view is at the heart of our experiences of stress. She encourages us to go beyond surface-level stress triggers and explore the deeper mental habits related to grasping at the self, to see how we create the inner tension and unhappiness we experience as stress. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

May 19, 202520 min

True Happiness: A Buddhist Journey Inward

What if the happiness you’ve been chasing isn’t out there—but within? Join us for an exploration of the Buddhist view on happiness, which challenges the direction of everyday life. This talk explores why the joy we seek can’t be found in material things or fleeting experiences—and how inner peace is not just a spiritual idea, but a practical path to lasting contentment. Discover how understanding your own mind can transform your relationship with the world and open the door to stable happiness—n...

May 12, 202519 min

Taming your inner critic

Kadam Bridget strongly encourages us to monitor our minds throughout the day as a way to prevent negativity and unhappiness. Our inner voice can often be harsh and discouraging. In this talk, we explore the Buddhist understanding of negative self-talk, learning that such thoughts are temporary—but we increase their harmful impact by holding onto them and identifying with them. Kadam Bridget offers practical techniques to notice and release negativity at an early stage, thereby protecting our pea...

May 05, 202519 min

Acceptance through wisdom

In this talk, Gen Khedrub guides us in understanding the power of acceptance in creating harmony in our relationships, and in cultivating happiness and peace of mind within ourselves. Together, we explore the vital difference between genuine love and clinging attachment, discovering how wisdom in our relationships allows us to accept others as they are—without the need to control them. This podcast is an extract of a talk given at KMC Boston based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by G...

Apr 28, 202519 min

The source of our pain - Desirous Attachment

In this inspiring talk, Gen Gomlam explores the difference between love and attachment, revealing how attachment—often mistaken for love—can quietly sabotage our relationships. With warmth and clarity, she shows us that attachment isn’t our ally; it’s actually the hidden poison eroding connection and harmony. But there’s good news: Gen Gomlam introduces a simple shift in mindset that allows us to let go of attachment while deepening genuine love. This transformation feels almost magical, changin...

Apr 21, 202520 min

Unmasking False Confidence

In this talk Gen Demo helps us understand the difference between deluded pride and true self-confidence. This episode explores how exaggerating our qualities leads to insecurity and critical mind towards others. On the other hand true confidence gives us freedom to learn, grow, improve and feel comfortable about who we are. Learn to spot the difference and start building something real! Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso....

Apr 14, 202518 min

Joyful Focus: Taming Your Mind's Habits

In this enjoyable podcast, Gen Chodor, Resident Teacher of KMC Canada, explains how to improve our meditative concentration. Discover the four essential steps of meditation: seeking, finding, holding, and remaining. Understand that distraction isn’t the harmless interruption we often assume but rather the primary obstacle to deeper spiritual practice. Learn how mindfulness maintains focus while alertness stands guard against wandering thoughts. Based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Ges...

Apr 07, 202522 min

Unlock Peace: Stress Comes From Within

Discover why stress isn’t caused by external events but primarily by your internal reaction. Learn the Buddhist perspective on identifying the true source of problems – your own mind – and understand why controlling your inner world, not the outer one, is the key to lasting peace. This podcast is an extract from a talk by Gen Devi given at KMC Switzerland. It is based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Mar 31, 202522 min

Don't worry what people think

In this podcast, we look at the impact of being overly attached to others’ opinions of us. Gen Lekma examines how constantly seeking external validation creates a fragile sense of self that’s vulnerable to criticism and rejection. We see that when our self-worth depends on others’ approval, we develop chronic anxiety about how we’re being perceived. By understanding the way social anxiety develops , we can begin the journey toward a more relaxed life where we make choices aligned with our values...

Mar 24, 202516 min

The point of connection with all living beings

Buddha taught that all living beings are interconnected. In this podcast, Gen Menla shares three reflections that help us overcome the false belief that we are separate from or more important than others. By embracing these reflections, we can cultivate a deep sense of connection, leading us to a beautiful space where we cherish others and genuinely wish for their happiness. Based on the book How to Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Mar 17, 202519 min

Is universal compassion possible?

In this podcast, Kadam Lucy explores the transformative potential of universal compassion in our divided world. Drawing from ancient Buddhist wisdom and contemporary examples, she examines whether extending compassion to all beings—even those we find difficult—is truly achievable or merely an idealistic aspiration. Based on the book Universal Compassion by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Mar 10, 202520 min

Know The Mind; Heal Your Life

In this thought-provoking podcast, Kadam Morton explains the fundamental nature of mind, revealing the surprising source of genuine happiness hidden in plain sight. With refreshing clarity and humor, he illuminates how our perceptions shape our reality through relatable, everyday examples. Listeners will gain transformative insights into how experiences—both pleasant and challenging—are ultimately created by our own minds. Based on a talk given at KMC New York City and based on the book How to T...

Mar 03, 202521 min

Overcoming Loneliness through Meditation

Becoming aware of the kindness we encounter every day and throughout our lives is a powerful way to cultivate gratitude and overcome feelings of isolation. As we begin to recognize these acts of kindness, our minds open, fostering a sense of connection with others and helping to dissolve loneliness. In this talk, Gen Gomlam guides us on how to reflect on the kindness we’ve received, allowing us to realize that we are not isolated individuals, but deeply interconnected with those around us. This ...

Feb 24, 202519 min

What is truly to blame?

In society, we often seek something or someone to blame for our problems. Whether it’s ourselves, others, or external circumstances, the list of potential culprits is endless. However, the thoughts that arise when we point the finger are often negative, leaving us feeling unhappy and discouraged. This episode explores a different perspective on blame—how shifting our understanding of what’s truly responsible for our struggles can help us break free from negativity and find greater peace of mind....

Feb 18, 202518 min

Beyond Appearances: the Wisdom of Emptiness

All wisdom paves the way to happiness, but the highest wisdom—the wisdom of non-ignorance, or the wisdom that realizes ultimate truth—holds the key to lasting peace. This profound understanding of emptiness removes suffering at its root, offering us freedom from all pain. Gen-la Dekyong beautifully introduces this transformative wisdom through three powerful analogies given by Buddha. These analogies help us to see how things may seem to exist in one way, but in truth, they exist in a much deepe...

Feb 10, 202522 min

Buddhist Teachings Offer Hope

This podcast offers an insightful yet practical exploration of Buddhism, with a special focus on Kadampa Buddhism. Kadam Bridget delves into the core idea that Buddhist teachings are designed to protect the mind. She explains that without this protection, especially in the face of the constant stimuli of daily life, achieving true happiness becomes difficult. Through the podcast, she illustrates how the wisdom of Dharma can be seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives, helping to enhance our...

Feb 03, 202521 min

Peace and Flexibility in Meditation

In this podcast, Gen Menla explores the benefits of concentration and mindfulness, helping us understand that they are not rigid, static states of mind, but dynamic practices that help us to evolve through the cultivation of our inner good qualities. We also learn how training in concentration brings both physical and mental comfort, fostering greater well-being and stability. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Dallas based on the book How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso...

Jan 27, 202520 min

The nature of your mind is extraordinary

Understanding the nature of our mind and the different levels of consciousness opens the door to a true and profound understanding of reality. According to Buddhism, misunderstanding the nature of our reality is the root cause of many of our problems and suffering. In this incredibly inspiring podcast, Kadam Morton encourages us to follow in the footsteps of the great meditators of the past, to get to know our minds, and to experience the extraordinary peace and flexibility that this brings. Thi...

Jan 20, 202521 min

Self Confidence, Acceptance and Peace

By gaining a deeper understanding of the nature of our mind, we free ourselves from identifying with our faults and painful emotions, allowing us to stop being controlled by them. This ability to step back from the grip of negative feelings forms the foundation of stable self-confidence and lasting inner peace. This is an extract of a teaching by Kadam Tim Laracombe based on the book How to Solve our Human Problems by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso...

Jan 13, 202522 min

The key to beating distraction

To make meaningful progress in meditation or to gain greater control over our minds in daily life, we must learn to manage and overcome distractions. Gen Demo provides insightful guidance on how to recognize and prevent distractions from derailing our focus. She highlights that it’s not just about managing external interruptions, but also about cultivating an inner determination to stop distractions before they take hold. By developing this mental resolve, we can create the conditions necessary ...

Jan 06, 202519 min

A Life of Profound Purpose

In this podcast, from Kadam Lucy James, learn why now is the only time to take the real meaning of human life, which is the attainment of enlightenment. Now, now today! Tomorrow is too far off. An extract from a teaching given in KMC New York based on the book Joyful Path of Good Fortune by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

Dec 31, 202421 min

Making new habits for happiness

Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong explores the essential relationship between inner peace and happiness. Drawing on the teachings of Venerable Geshe Kalsang Gyatso Rinpoche, she emphasizes that true happiness stems from a peaceful mind rather than external conditions. Despite the allure of material possessions and favorable circumstances, real contentment is achievable only through cultivating inner peace. Dekyong outlines spiritual practices to develop a peaceful mind, such as moral discipline, giving, an...

Dec 26, 202418 min

Do we really have a connection with all living beings?

One of the methods for improving and extending our mind of love is to realise we are all connected to each other, we are not islands, isolated from each other. In this podcast Gen Menla explores the Buddhist teaching that all beings have been our mothers in previous lives and have shown us great kindness. When we develop this view we feel an incredible sense of connection and awaken our mind of affectionate love. He encourages us to adopt this view simply because it brings great happiness. An ex...

Dec 16, 202420 min

Healing our vulnerabilities

In this podcast, Gen Thekchen explores how our attachment to the pursuit of happiness can make us vulnerable, leading to a dependence on external factors that fuel our restlessness and dissatisfaction. He emphasizes that by practicing the mind-training teachings of the Buddha, we can cultivate mental resilience and create the inner space needed to genuinely experience and enjoy life. An extract from a teaching given in KMC Ottowa based on the book The New Eight Steps to Happiness by Geshe Kelsan...

Dec 09, 202420 min
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