Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussion of suicide, grief, and traumatic loss. Please listen with care.
In this powerful and unflinchingly honest episode, Buddhist teacher and punk rocker Mikey Livid shares his journey from bar fights and blackout nights to Buddhist practice, pastoral counseling, and teaching on death row. Mikey speaks with raw compassion about grief, addiction, and the punk scene that first gave him permission to scream about suffering—and the Dharma that taught him how to sit with it.
He and host Beth Herzig explore the transformative potential of loving-kindness meditation, the value of authentic service in recovery, and Mikey’s upcoming book Blood, Guts and Buddhism. From horror movies to heartbreak, this conversation covers the full spectrum of what it means to be human—and to meet it all with love.
More about Mikey:
Mikey Livid (he/him) is a Buddhist teacher, author, and counselor. Mikey is the guiding teacher at Wild Heart Meditation Center in Nashville, TN. He regularly brings Buddhist meditation classes into addiction treatment centers, prisons, and a variety of settings. Mikey is the author of his upcoming book Blood, Guts, & Buddhism: The Dharma of Horror Movies, Heartbreak, and The Nature of Suffering. Mikey is the co-host of the punk rock, mental health podcast Punks On Hope and is the singer for the punk band The Rip Taylors.
LINKS:
https://linktr.ee/MikeyLivid
https://www.wildheartmeditationcenter.org
Join Us for the BRN JULY ACADEMY WITH MIKEY LIVID
https://givebutter.com/JULY25
To listen to more podcasts from Buddhist Recovery Network go to the show and subscribe: https://buddhistrecovery.org/academy/podcasts/
Keywords: mindfulness, meditation, anxiety, trauma, emotional wellness, nervous system, online workshops, mental health, grounding techniques, self-care
SUMMARY
In this episode of the Flowering Lotus Meditation Podcast, host Beth Herzig interviews Jennifer Sigrest, a Licensed Professional Counselor and mindfulness teacher, about her upcoming workshop 'Finding Firm Ground: Mindful Tools for Uncertain Times.' Jennifer shares her personal journey into mindfulness, the impact of her training on her therapeutic practice, and the importance of mindfulness in navigating emotional overwhelm. The conversation explores the 3S framework (Slow, Sense, Scan) that Jennifer teaches in her workshop, emphasizing practical tools for grounding oneself in stressful situations. The discussion also touches on the accessibility of mindfulness for beginners and the significance of understanding the nervous system's role in emotional responses.
Takeaways
Jennifer Sigrest is a licensed professional counselor and mindfulness teacher.
Her workshop focuses on practical tools for navigating uncertainty.
The 3S framework includes Slow, Sense, and Scan techniques.
Mindfulness training has enhanced Jennifer's effectiveness as a therapist.
Understanding the nervous system is crucial for managing emotional overwhelm.
Mindfulness can be accessible for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike.
Creating a mindful space online is possible and effective.
Nature plays a significant role in grounding and mindfulness practices.
Rest is essential for preventing burnout and emotional distress.
The workshop aims to provide participants with practical strategies for daily life.
Sound Bites
"Nature is grounding."
"There's no time to rush."
"We are a mind and body."
Jennifer’s links to learn more:
Register for the June 28 workshop here: https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/
KEY WORDS: Right Intention, Wise Intention, Mindfulness, Compassion, Buddhism, Eightfold Path, Meditation, Personal Growth, Kindness, Non-harming
SUMMARY: In this episode of the Flowering Lotus Meditation Podcast, Beth Herzig explores the concept of Right Intention, a key aspect of the Eightfold Path in Buddhism. She discusses how our intentions shape our actions and the importance of aligning our thoughts with kindness, compassion, and non-harming. Through real-world examples, Beth illustrates how practicing Right Intention can lead to more peaceful interactions and a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. She also shares practical tips for cultivating Right Intention in daily life, emphasizing the transformative power of setting intentions and mindful communication takeaways
titles
Sound Bites
Chapters
00:00 Living with Intention: An Introduction
00:30 Understanding Right Intention
01:27 Real-World Applications of Right Intention
04:41 Cultivating Right Intention in Daily Life
06:37 The Impact of Intention on Our Lives
Article:
How to Practice Wise Intention (Lion’s Roar)
Why Intention is so important in Meditation (Tricycle)
Check out our Our 2025 Offerings
In this episode we share Caroline Durham's talk entitled: Refuge In the Storm: An Activist Perspective, this talk explores the four noble truths and the eightfold path, her relationship with these teachings and how we as practitioners can engage with the teachings in a meaningful way.
Caroline is the Founder of Mindful Justice, lives in New Orleans and a community activist herself committed to healed communities especially those intertwined with the legal system.
Here’s the song Caroline referenced in the beginning of her talk:
Joy and Pain Song by Frankie Beverly and Maze
When the tides rise, how do we continue staying afloat? Living in a world where too clearly “there is always suffering,” where are the off-ramps for cessation of suffering? What is the interwoven relationship of the Four Noble Truths that provides refuge in the storm? In this discussion we explore the gifts that we each are - to ourselves, to one another and to the world.
Caroline Durham, founder of Mindful Justice, grounds into the dharma from a foundation of engaged Buddhism. A creative, visionary, and changemaker, Caroline interweaves the dharma with 25+ years service as a public defender and community organizer focused on healing the structural racism underlying the criminal legal system. Committed to healed, thriving communities through engaged Buddhism, her practice is grounded in the lineage of Thich Nhat Hahn through her dear mentor and friend Cherie Maples. Working on local and national level to bring about an end to the carceral state, she focuses on supporting community activists and people with lived experience with the criminal legal system and strengthening communities in the South.
To connect with Caroline and find out more about Mindful Justice check out : https://mindfuljustice.today/
If you found this talk helpful or insightful and you’d like to support the work Flowering Lotus Meditation is doing please show your monetary support by donating here: https://givebutter.com/activist
If you want to join us for residential meditation retreats or our online gatherings find out more at : https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/
For many years Flowering Lotus Meditation and Sama Studio have worked together to help teachers reach more students when visiting the New Orleans area. In this podcast episode Beth Herzig speaks with Laura Johanna, Co-Director of Sama Studio about the partnership, and more about what's happening at Sama and their non-profit model.Topics discussed include:
Find out more here:Sama Studio
Follow Sama Studio on Instagram
Yoga and Meditation Teacher Training
Lojong : Developing a Kind Heart, with Laura's Teacher Earle BirneyConnect with Laura on IGSign Up on Sama's website for the Dharma Talk with FLM Retreat Teacher:Intuition and Awakening: A Contemplative Perspective with David Chernikoff
Thursday April 10, 2025 - In person or Online HYBRID
A brief overview of the Eightfold Path. Often described as the "middle way," it offers a way of life that avoids the extremes of self-indulgence and self-denial. The path is a guide to ethical living, mental discipline, and wisdom, and it’s divided into three categories: wisdom (Right View and Right Intention), ethical conduct (Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood), and mental discipline (Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration). Each of these steps is interconnected, supporting the others like spokes in a wheel.
Right View, the first step, is foundational. Bhikkhu Bodhi describes it as "the forerunner of the path," because how we perceive and understand the world shapes every decision we make. Right View invites us to see life as it truly is, rather than how we wish it to be. It’s about aligning our perspective with reality—a reality that includes impermanence, interconnectedness, and the causes and conditions of suffering. Jack Kornfield puts it beautifully: "The wise heart sees the universal truths of change, suffering, and interdependence. When we see these truths clearly, we respond to life with balance and compassion."
Gil Fronsdal once said, "Right View is not just about having correct beliefs; it’s about seeing clearly in a way that transforms the heart." This transformation happens when we align our understanding with the Four Noble Truths: that suffering exists, it has a cause, it can end, and there’s a path to its cessation. By integrating these truths into our lives, we begin to see challenges not as insurmountable problems but as opportunities for growth and awakening.
Tara Brach: "Awakening self-compassion is often the greatest challenge people face on the spiritual path. It’s also the most transformative. When we practice seeing clearly with kindness, we open the door to healing and freedom."
Simplified Summary of the 3 Marks of Existence
The Three Marks of Existence: impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), and non-self (anatta). These truths help us understand life as it is, and learning to see through their lens is essential for walking the Buddhist path.
Impermanence, or anicca. This is the idea that everything changes.
“We suffer when we cling to or resist what is, instead of opening to the flow of life.” -Tara Brach
“When we recognize the changing nature of life, we loosen our grip on the fantasy of permanence.” -Ruth King
The second mark of existence is dukkha, often translated as suffering. But dukkha is more nuanced than that. It refers to the sense of dissatisfaction we feel when life doesn’t match our expectations.
Bhikkhu Bodhi explains, “Suffering doesn’t mean that life is all misery. It’s the subtle undercurrent of unease that comes from grasping at things that can’t satisfy us in the long run.”
The third mark of existence is non-self, or anatta.
Buddhism teaches that there’s no fixed, permanent “self” inside us. What we think of as “me” is actually a collection of experiences, thoughts, and feelings, all constantly changing.
Kaira Jewel Lingo writes, “When we realize there is no fixed self, we can let go of the constant need to defend or promote our identity. This brings tremendous relief.”
When we bring these three ideas together—impermanence, suffering, and non-self—we start to see life more clearly. We see that change is inevitable, that clinging creates dissatisfaction, and that we’re not as solid and unchanging as we might think. This isn’t a cause for despair. It’s an invitation to live with more presence, flexibility, and compassion.
“The truth is, everything is a dance of change. When we relax into that truth, we find a peace that can hold it all.” Tara Brach
The 3 P’s to remember the 3 Marks of Existence, Life is not Permanent, Perfect or Personal
by Ruth King
Understanding the Four Noble Truths: A Path to Freedom and Peace
The First Noble Truth: Life Contains Suffering (Dukkha)
The first truth is simple: life contains suffering. The Buddha used the word *dukkha*, which is often translated as suffering, but it also means unease, dissatisfaction, or stress.
"The First Noble Truth is not meant to depress us but to awaken us to the reality of our lives so that we can start to live more fully." -Jack Kornfield The Second Noble Truth: The Cause of Suffering (Tanha)
The second truth goes deeper. It says suffering arises from *tanha*, often translated as craving or clinging. It’s that feeling of “I need this” or “I need things to be different.”
"Craving is the force that drives our discontent. It’s not the external world that binds us but the way we cling to it."
-Joseph Goldstein
"The Four Noble Truths point us to the possibility of being fully present with our suffering in a way that transforms it, rather than letting it control us." -Sharon Salzberg The Third Noble Truth: The End of Suffering
Now, here’s the good news. The third truth tells us that suffering can end. There is a way to step off the treadmill of craving and dissatisfaction.
The Buddha called this "nirvana", but don’t think of it as some mystical state far away. It’s simply freedom—a mind at ease, not caught up in endless wanting.
The Fourth Noble Truth: The Path to the End of Suffering
The final truth is the *how.* It’s called the Eightfold Path—a practical guide for living with more wisdom, kindness, and mindfulness. Think of it as eight steps, like right speech (speaking truthfully and kindly) or right mindfulness (being present in the moment).
These steps aren’t rules—they’re tools. They help us live in a way that reduces suffering for ourselves and others.
In a world that often feels chaotic, the Four Noble Truths give us clarity. They remind us that it’s not about fixing the world but understanding our relationship with it. By seeing where we cling or resist, we can begin to let go.
The Four Noble Truths aren’t abstract ideas—they’re invitations to look at your own life.
"These teachings are not about becoming someone different. They’re about being fully human, with all the beauty and pain that entails." -Jack Kornfield
"The Four Noble Truths are universal. They speak to everyone who has ever felt joy or sorrow, love or loss." -Joseph Goldstein
"These teachings show us that we can meet our struggles with mindfulness and compassion, and in doing so, we can transform our lives." -Sharon Salzberg
Want to Read all About this? Here's Great Dharma Book:
Noble Truths, Noble Path - The Wisdom Experience
Want to Dive Deep into Dharma Talks by Experienced Teachers go here: https://dharmaseed.org/talks/
If you found this helpful and you would like to support Flowering Lotus Meditation : https://givebutter.com/2PLTJK
Disclaimer: The purpose of this episode is to serve as an introduction or reminder of this Buddhist concept. We researched the topic and presented it in a super simplistic way. There is much more depth to these teachings and we encourage you to dive in.
Today, we’ll explore the concept of Dharma—its meaning, its role in Buddhism, and how it connects to wise action in our daily lives. Let’s start by defining Dharma in a straightforward way.
In Buddhism, Dharma (or Dhamma in Pali) has several interconnected meanings:
◦Dharma represents the guidance and wisdom shared by the Buddha. This includes key teachings like the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
◦It’s not just the words of the Buddha—it’s the path of practice and the realization of enlightenment.
◦Dharma also refers to the true nature of things, including the natural laws of the universe.
◦For example, we often hear, "All dharmas are without self-essence," which highlights the impermanence and interconnectedness of all phenomena.
◦Dharma is universal, applicable to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. It’s a path we follow to live in harmony with the way things truly are.
In essence, Dharma is both the path and the goal—a guide for reducing suffering and achieving liberation.
How Do We Practice Dharma Today?
Here are some common ways people engage with Dharma in their daily lives:
Meditation
Practicing meditation helps us calm our minds and see reality more clearly.
Ethical Conduct
Living by principles such as right speech, right action, and right livelihood fosters a harmonious life.
Study of Texts
Reading and reflecting on Buddhist teachings deepens our understanding.
Community Practices
Chanting, Dharma talks, and retreats provide support and encouragement on the path.
Phillip Moffitt writes in Dancing with Life:
"Wise action is any action that liberates the mind, moves you toward freedom from suffering, and supports a feeling of well-being that is independent of external conditions."
Stephen Batchelor, author of Buddhism Without Beliefs, explains, "Dharma practice requires the courage to confront what it means to be human.”
David Chernikoff, Life Part Two
“The Dharma in Six Words”
Pay Attention
Don’t Cling
Be Kind
Visit our website to join us live every Sunday at 6 pm CST on Zoom for Meditation, a Talk & Group Discussion
https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org
Beth and David discuss David's upcoming in-person retreat with Flowering Lotus on the topics of grief, joy, and awakening.
David explains the retreat theme, saying spiritual awakening involves embracing life's 10,000 joys and sorrows with wisdom and compassion. The retreat aims to deepen practice and reflection on skillfully relating to these experiences.
David details how experiencing loss from a young age and working in hospice care led him to meditation. In his 20s, he was inspired by teachers working with the dying and converted from hedonism to Buddhism after borrowing a meditation book on his 21st birthday.
David outlines Buddhism's teachings on different types of happiness, suffering, and their causes. He explains how wisdom and compassion aid embracing both the bright and dark parts of reality, seeing them clearly as impermanent and without self.
Join us with David in Bay St. Louis for his weekend retreat: Learn More Here
Talking with Rev. Christie Bates about her upcoming dharma talk on February 11th online with Flowering Lotus Meditation. We will begin a series of exploring the 10 parami.
The concept of Adhiṭṭhāna and its significance in bringing resolution and determination to one's life. Christie discussed the importance of cultivating these qualities to their full strength and how Adhiṭṭhāna brings peace and resolve, allowing individuals to maintain their vows and determination without internal conflict. We also delved into the struggles with chronic dieting, the resistance to change, and the pursuit of core values, ultimately highlighting the importance of finding peace with oneself and circumstances. We concluded with a discussion on the transformative effects of setting and achieving goals and the potential for joy and fulfillment in pursuing and realizing one's aspirations. Check out these resources we referenced. Ajahn Achalo Bhikkhu's Dhamma Talk, also available on Insight Timer Increasing Determination
Ajahn Sucitto's book can be downloaded to your device or emailed to your Kindle
Pāramī: Ways to Cross Life's Floods
Thanissaro Bhikkhu's Book The Ten Perfections: A Study Guide
Christie's Book, Audiobook, and Sample Meditations for cultivating the Pāramīcan be found on her App
Rebecca Kronlage is a 70 year old cancer survivor who has found miraculous healing through her practice. Rebecca is our January 2024 retreat teacher. In this episode, Rebecca shares about her path into Buddhism and what she's learned along the way. Why is a retreat an important part of contemplative practice? What's her super power? Listen to find out.
Rebecca will be teaching an In-Person Retreat in Biloxi, Mississippi "The Wisdom of The Buddha: A Weekend Wake Up Retreat" January 26-28, 2024 To find out more please visit: https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/
Listen and if you'd like to join us at our next retreat you can read more and register here.
To find out more about Deborah's dharma talk at Sama Studio in Arrabi read more here.
We're looking forward to hosting Dave Smith for a half day workshop/retreat on July 22. Get to know Dave and hear about what we can expect for this online offering.
Sign up for this retreat to attend on zoom or to receive the zoom recording, here: Flowering Lotus Meditation
You can sign up for this offering for the scholarship rate or you can offer $25, $50, $75 to support Flowering Lotus Meditation mission to keep offering varied opportunities of dharma lessons meditation.
For more information on Dave and to see all he's offering visit: Dave Smith Dharma | Dave Smith Dharma
In this episode we talk to our next residential retreat teacher, Lisa Ernst of Nashville.
To find out more about and register for this retreat visit :
Lisa is the founder of One Dharma Nashville where they offer in person and online practice opportunities. Find out more at: One Dharma Nashville Home Page Meditation and Dharma Teachings
Visit Lisa's at her website to listen to her many recorded dharma talks and learn more about her. Meditation, Insight Teacher Lisa Ernst (lisaernstmeditation.com)
To find out more about Lisa's Dharma Talk at Sama Studio on August 24, 2023, visit: Yoga | Sama (samastudio.org)
Beth Herzig speaks with Rev. Mikey Noechel and Andrew Chapman, teachers at Wild Heart Meditation Center in Nashville, TN. Our next residential retreat will feature both Mikey and Andrew as teachers. Come to the Interdependence Day Compassion Meditation Retreat happening July 6-9, 2023 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
What's a compassion meditation retreat? How do we face life's suffering and pain? What is the point in experiencing pain? What's going on with Buddhism in the Southeast? Listen now to hear all about.
If you'd like to listen to recordings of Mikey and Andrew's teachings checkout the Wildheart podcast.
Registration for this retreat on the Flowering Lotus Meditation website.
This episode was sound engineered by Flowering Lotus Meditation Program Director, Justin Otto, check out his podcast: Dharma Junkie
After a weekend together practicing with over 30 people in Bay St. Louis, MS. Beth sits down with the Venerable Pannavati to talk about Flowering Lotus Meditation's mobile sangha model.
To find out more about Venerable Pannavati please visit: https://heartwoodrefuge.org/
To stay up to date with what's happening at Flowering Lotus Meditation, go to our website and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
https://www.floweringlotusmeditation.org/