Have you ever felt trapped in a rush-hour snarl, wishing you could swap the blaring horns for the soft chimes of Tibetan singing bowls? Or maybe during those insomniac nights, instead of counting sheep, you’d prefer a monk’s chanting or meditation practice to guide you to slumberland. Enter the wonderful world of Buddhist podcasts! In a digital age where mindfulness seems to have become a hashtag more than a practice, these podcasts provide an oasis of calm amidst the tumultuous deserts of daily commotion.
Don’t rely on the amateur prognosticators putting together the best Buddhist podcasts on Reddit or Spotify; I’ve actually listened to all these shows.
Remember the Buddha’s first noble truth? Life is suffering. But here’s our modern twist: Life is suffering…without a good podcast playlist. As much as Buddhism is about ancient wisdom, introspection, and the quest for enlightenment, the marriage between its teachings and modern technology is a match made in Nirvana. And let’s be honest, if the Buddha were around today, he’d probably have his own podcast, discussing the Middle Path with a side of matcha latte.
So, fellow spiritual wanderer, get ready to deep dive (or should I say, deep meditate?) into the best Buddhism-centric podcasts out there. Whether you’re a novice looking to understand the basics or a seasoned practitioner eager for deeper insights, there’s a voice ready to guide you. Earbuds in, worldly distractions out!
The Wisdom Podcast
The Wisdom Podcast interviews contemporary Buddhist teachers, scholars, and thinkers. Discussing a broad spectrum of topics related to Eastern philosophies, meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings, the podcast provides listeners with in-depth discussions that aim to deepen understanding and practice. Whether a seasoned practitioner or someone just dipping their toes into Buddhism, listeners can gain valuable insights from the rich experiences and wisdom shared by the podcast’s esteemed guests.
Ram Dass Here and Now
Listen to Ram Dass Here and Now
In each episode of this Buddhist podcast, Ram Dass imparts his heartfelt wisdom through segments from lectures he’s delivered over the past four decades. Raghu Markus from the Love Serve Remember Foundation, founded by Ram Dass, introduces each segment.
Bob Thurman Podcast: Buddhas Have More Fun!
The official podcast of Professor Robert A.F. Thurman explores a range of subjects, encompassing Tibetan Buddhism, spiritual exploration, Tibetan culture, Asian historical perspectives, philosophical discussions, Eastern concepts, and insights from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. This podcast is beloved by many practitioners of Buddhism and is well worth a listen.
Buddhist Boot Camp
Let’s jazz things up and wake up your inner zen! Dive deep with Timber Hawkeye, the rockstar author behind hits like ‘Buddhist Boot Camp’ and ‘Faithfully Religionless.’ There is no need for labels here—Timber’s fresh, secular take is all about grooving in harmony with the universe, inside and out. And remember, in the wise words of the Dalai Lama: “Don’t just learn from Buddhism to level up as a Buddhist; use it to supercharge whatever-you-already-rock-at!”
AudioDharma
Tune into enlightening Dharma chats with Gil Fronsdal and a lineup of special guest stars at the Insight Meditation Center. Dive deep into the golden nuggets of Buddha’s teachings, shedding light on those age-old secrets. And guess what? The goal hasn’t changed since Buddha’s time: steering us down a path away from suffering and cruising straight into the realm of freedom.
The Way Out Is In
The Way Out Is In is a perfect Buddhist podcast for beginners. This show is all about elevating above those pesky fears and tempers, paving the way for more love, compassion, and a sprinkle of zen! Guided by Thich Nhat Hanh’s mantra, we’re reminded that sometimes, the best escape is a deep dive into our own minds. Discover, reflect, and groove with insights from various fabulous co-hosts.
Secular Buddhism
Meet Noah Rasheta: a Buddhist guru, lay minister, writer, and the charismatic voice behind the ‘Secular Buddhism’ podcast. When he’s not lighting up the online world or global workshops with his teachings on mindfulness and Buddhist musings, he’s on a mission to sprinkle a bit more goodness on the planet. Merging the core tenets of Buddhist philosophy with a pinch of modern science, a dash of humanism, and a whole lot of wit, Noah’s approach is refreshingly fun and profound!
Daily Wisdom – Walking The Path with The Buddha
Listen to Daily Wisdom – Walking The Path with The Buddha
Dive into “Daily Wisdom – Walking The Path with The Buddha,” a podcast by David Roylance. Journey towards eliminating discontentment and achieving Enlightenment through Gotama Buddha’s teachings. For a tranquil and joyous mind, tune in and explore courses, retreats, and resources to further your enlightenment journey.
Tara Brach
Listen to the Tara Brach podcast
Tara Brach, Ph.D. is a renowned meditation teacher and author of the popular books Radical Acceptance and True Refuge. Every week, Tara offers a guided meditation and talk that seamlessly blends Western psychology with Eastern spiritual practices. The podcast emphasizes the importance of mindfulness meditation and self-compassion in alleviating emotional distress, promoting spiritual growth, and contributing to the healing of our world.
Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg
Listen to Metta Hour with Sharon Salzberg
The Metta Hour by Sharon Salzberg is a podcast that presents Buddhist philosophy in a practical and easy-to-understand language. Sharon’s natural wisdom, sense of humor, and her ability to translate these teachings into relatable experiences create a close connection with the listener. Each podcast is a journey towards self-discovery, filled with insightful revelations and everyday experiences.
Buddhism Guide
This podcast is a great resource for anyone interested in learning about Buddhist principles. The host, Yeshe, is a knowledgeable monk from England who has spent years teaching meditation and philosophy to young monks in the Himalayas. His teachings are clear and accessible, and he encourages his students to explore their own experiences and minds to better understand the teachings of Gautama Buddha.
Buddhist Geeks
Over 330 episodes have been produced so far, covering interviews, dharma talks, and various other topics relevant to those involved in modern Buddhist teaching and practice. The show often delves into the relationship between Buddhism and modern science, such as exploring neuroscience or game theory. Sometimes, guests from outside the Buddhist community are invited to share their perspectives.
Tricycle Talks
Interested in exploring life’s big questions from a Buddhist perspective? Check out Tricycle Talks, a podcast hosted by James Shaheen, the editor-in-chief of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review, the premier Buddhist magazine in the West.
Buddhist Society of Western Australia
Listen to the Buddhist Society of Western Australia
The Buddhist Society of Western Australia presents Dharma talks from the esteemed meditation master Ajahn Brahm and the Australian Forest Sangha of monks and nuns, sharing the rich tradition of Buddhist teachings.
The Lion’s Roar Podcast
Listen to the Lion’s Roar Podcast
Explore a wide range of insightful content from Lion’s Roar Magazine and Buddhadharma: The Practioner’s Quarterly, including meditations, interviews, dharma talks, and features. Discover new perspectives and deepen your understanding of Buddhism with these valuable audio resources.
The Zen Mountain Monastery Podcast
Listen to The Zen Mountain Monastery Podcast
The Mountains and Rivers Order (MRO) is a lineage of Western Zen Buddhism that was established by the late John Daido Loori Roshi. The MRO is dedicated to sharing the dharma as it has been passed down from generation to generation since the time of Shakyamuni Buddha.
Free Buddhist Audio
Since 2006, Free Buddhist Audio has been providing top-notch, full-length Dharma talks for free. With over 3 million downloads and still counting, it’s clear that their quality recordings have been a valuable resource for many. If you’re interested in Buddhism, meditation, or mindfulness, don’t miss out on their weekly podcast featuring inspiring speakers.
Buddhist Solutions for Life’s Problems
Listen to Buddhist Solutions for Life’s Problems
Discovering solutions to life’s challenges can be a daunting task. From rocky family relationships to financial struggles and heartbreak, it can be tough to navigate through the tough times. But what if you could tap into 3,000 years of Buddhist wisdom to find real solutions to these problems? That’s exactly what journalist Jihii Jolly did as she explored her own Nichiren Buddhist community. Through the stories of everyday people, including mechanics, CEOs, mothers, and artists, she discovered how they were able to apply the teachings of Buddhism to overcome some of life’s most aggravating obstacles.
The 12-Step Buddhist Podcast
Listen to The 12-Step Buddhist Podcast
Let’s explore readings and meditations shared by sacred Buddhist masters. This podcast explores methods, techniques, and essential principles of Buddhist recovery. While AA tackles the cunning, baffling, and powerful nature of addictions, this podcast goes deeper into the roots by exploring ACEs, Western neuropsychology, and scientifically tested training methods. Drawing on the wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism, Yoga, and other systems, you’ll learn easy-to-follow techniques with powerful effects.
Everyday Buddhism: Making Everyday Better
Listen to Everyday Buddhism: Making Everyday Better
Wendy Shinyo Haylett, a knowledgeable author, Buddhist teacher, lay minister, and behavioural and spiritual coach, generously offers insights from Buddhist teachings to elevate your personal and professional life on a daily basis.
Do you know of a podcast focused on Buddhism that you think should be on this list? Let me know.