Best Helpwithgrief Podcasts (2024)

1
Stephen Schettini: Rediscovering the Buddha’s Personality in the Pali Canon 30:43

9d ago30:43

30:43

Margaret 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 his…

1
Prisoners of Our Own Device: Understanding and Alleviating Suffering 7:55

1M ago7:55

7:55

Recalling 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 con…

1
Disenchantment and Dispassion: Finding Freedom in Impermanence 12:45

1M ago12:45

12:45

Journey through a powerful sutta from the Samyutta Nikaya, where we witness a profound exchange between the Buddha and a newly ordained monk grappling with a severe illness. As the monk confronts his increasing pain and anxiety, the Buddha's compassionate visit becomes a pivotal moment for transformation. Rather than simply seeking to alleviate the…

1
Revisiting Connections: Keeping Loved Ones Close in a Mindful Way 7:17

2M ago7:17

7:17

Consider these thought-provoking questions about the most important individuals in your life. Are you clinging to them out of fear? Or are you nurturing your relationships with love and mindfulness? Know the difference between unhealthy attachment and genuine care, it's natural to love your family and friends, but you must also be prepared to relea…

1
Why Suffer? Let Old Ideas Go! 11:06

2M ago11:06

11:06

Clinging to outdated ideas and plans is like trying to control the waves of the ocean - the more we resist, the more frustrated we become. By letting go and accepting impermanence, we can become more resilient and open ourselves up to new possibilities. Shedding our old beliefs and plans, like a snake shedding its skin, allows for personal growth a…

1
The Buddha's Teachings on Pain: Finding Freedom from the Second Arrow 11:39

2M ago11:39

11:39

Reading 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 …

1
Being Honest About Your Capabilities in Helping Others 11:14

2M ago11:14

11:14

Understand your own limitations and boundaries- before you dive into helping others. There is value in both temporary solutions and empowering others for sustainable change. Every small act of help has significance. Listeners are encouraged to recognize the interconnectedness of all sentient beings and the impact that your actions can have on the l…

1
Refuge, Resilience, and Release from Suffering. 9:35

3M ago9:35

9:35

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, emoti…

1
Normalizing Emotions: Helping Others Face Their Storms 7:16

3M ago7:16

7:16

A heartfelt story of a father reaching out to his daughter during a tumultuous time—her recent breakup. Through a series of poignant text messages, he emphasizes the powerful analogy of bulls and cows when it comes to facing life's challenges. While cows seek shelter during a storm, prolonging their suffering, bulls charge straight through the stor…

1
Right Livelihood Contributes to Community Well-being 13:25

3M ago13:25

13:25

Life 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 i…

1
Exploring Past Lives with Simon Bown 39:56

3M ago39:56

39:56

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 …

1
The Nature of Suffering: An Exploration 14:42

3M ago14:42

14:42

Through 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…

1
Finding Joy in Death: Reverend Jessica Sharpe of the Joyful Death Institute 40:53

4M ago40:53

40:53

Meet Reverend Jessica Sharpe, founder of the Joyful Death Institute. Reverend Jessica shares their spiritual journey from being raised in a Mormon family to finding Buddhism, particularly the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh and Tibetan Buddhism. They discuss the Buddhist concept of the Second Noble Truth - the truth of suffering, emphasizing the impor…

1
Reducing Suffering Through Compassionate Directness 14:59

4M ago14:59

14:59

We 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 c…

1
Ryan Gray: Compassion and Understanding in the Face of Addiction 37:49

4M ago37:49

37:49

Ryan Gray, shares his personal experience with addiction and homelessness. He describes how addiction can make even basic tasks like getting to a shelter on time incredibly challenging. The stigma around homelessness and addiction often leads people to wrongly assume those struggling can simply "get a job" and fix their problems. Gray explains that…

1
The Importance of the Brahma Viharas on the Path to Liberation 15:00

4M ago15:00

15:00

In this episode, we'll explore the Brahma Viharas - the four sublime states of loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. These meditative practices are key to gaining release from suffering according to the Buddhist tradition. We'll discuss how the Brahma Viharas work together to purify the mind and prepare it for the path to li…

1
Rabbit, Woodpecker and Lion: Wise Ways to Compassion 12:16

5M ago12:16

12:16

In 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 sacr…

1
Giselle Taraba: The Power of Compassion: A Roadmap to Joyful Living 42:02

5M ago42:02

42:02

Giselle 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 othe…

1
The Spiritual Significance of Avalokiteśvara: A Compassionate Bodhisattva 23:57

5M ago23:57

23:57

Let’s consider the fascinating figure of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, also known as Guanyin, in Mahayana Buddhism. We delve into the story of how Avalokiteshvara made a vow to save all sentient beings from suffering, and how he was granted a thousand arms by Buddha Amitabha to better assist those in need. Avalokiteshvara has become one of the most …

1
Trinn Hatch Exploring the Spiritual and Emotional Aspects of Healing 37:46

5M ago37:46

37:46

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 …

1
Help Yourself: Finding Relief in Self-Compassion 18:42

6M ago18:42

18:42

In 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…

1
Embracing Life Through the Lens of Dharma: Venerable Clear Grace's Teachings 42:26

6M ago42:26

42:26

In 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 vibra…

1
Release from Suffering Brought to You By: Anāthapiṇḍika 15:37

6M ago15:37

15:37

Today, we delve into the fascinating story of Anāthapiṇḍika, chief patron of Buddha and the figure behind the creation of Jeta’s Grove Monastery. Known as the 'Great Benefactor', Anāthapiṇḍika's unrelenting support and generosity towards Buddha and his monks enabled them to spend twenty-five fruitful retreats in Sāvatthi. His significant contributi…

1
Disconnection and Distress: Christine Davies on Suffering and Spirituality 35:11

6M ago35:11

35:11

In this episode of the Death Dhamma podcast, we speak to Reverend Christine Davies, a hospital chaplain, writer, and an 'evangelist for grief'. Christine is also well-versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, Reiki, and is a seminary professor. Besides her professional interests, she is also a triathlete and a beekeeper. Christine shares her thoughts…

1
Dying to Help Others 15:29

6M ago15:29

15:29

In this episode, we consider Simon Boaz and his perspective as he faces his own impending death. He shares his perspective on life and the importance of appreciating the experiences we have had, rather than focusing on what is missing. While not specifically a Buddhist, his outlook aligns with some Buddhist teachings. Specifically encouraging us to…

1
Linda Hochstetler: 21 Days to Die: Exploring the Guide to End of Life 43:39

7M ago43:39

43:39

In 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 gri…

1
Shining Dishes, Shining Hearts: One Neighbor's Silent Service 9:44

7M ago9:44

9:44

Tune in as we explore the profound impact of a small act of kindness, reminding us all of the tremendous difference we can make in someone else's life if we are mindful and empathetic. This heartwarming story serves as a metaphor for how we can confront feelings of failure and despair in our lives and those around us. Could we not do the same, if w…

1
Horses, Hounds, and Humans 16:56

7M ago16:56

16:56

Today we explore the deep, historical connection between humans and two of our most enduring companions - horses and dogs. We delve into the intricacies of how these magnificent creatures have shaped our evolution just as we have shaped theirs. From the wide-stretching plains where horses have galloped alongside us, to the edges of forests where do…

1
Pets, People And Release from Suffering 15:54

7M ago15:54

15:54

In 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 compa…

1
Bodhicitta, Bodhisattva, and Helping Others 11:58

8M ago11:58

11:58

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,…

1
Dedicating Merit: A Path to Free Others from Suffering 13:06

8M ago13:06

13:06

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, alternat…

1
Compassion as a Critical Foundation for Buddhist Practice 11:54

8M ago11:54

11:54

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 inte…

1
Renee McKenna: Disconnection as the Root of Suffering 40:06

8M ago40:06

40:06

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 …

1
Reevaluating the Idea of Selfishness in Buddhism 10:57

9M ago10:57

10:57

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…

1
Stephen Schettini: Unmasking Low Self-Esteem: An Unseen Suffering 32:35

9M ago32:35

32:35

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…

1
Buddhist Teachings: The Ultimate Liberation from Suffering 8:48

9M ago8:48

8:48

Often, 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 …

1
Season 4: Who Helps to Alleviate Suffering and How? 6:51

9M ago6:51

6:51

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, …

1
More Pets, More Attachment 13:54

10M ago13:54

13:54

One 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 ou…

1
Death Prepping: How to Leave A Legacy of Love with Dr. Kimberly Harms 42:02

11M ago42:02

42:02

In 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. D…

1
Dr. Seth Zuihō Segall: Pluralism and the Conflict of Visions: Navigating Diversity in Democracy 47:54

12M ago47:54

47:54

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 …

1
Francesca Arnoldy: Living Fully and Dying Prepared 36:50

1y ago36:50

36:50

Memento 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 podca…

1
Living Buddhism: The Past, the Future, and the Now 11:14

1y ago11:14

11:14

Welcome 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.…

1
Buddhism, Attachment, and Personal Growth: Navigating Life's Challenges with Whitney Sause 33:34

1y ago33:34

33:34

In 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 beg…

1
Coming in Season 4 Our Release from Suffering and the Path of Compassion 9:35

1y ago9:35

9:35

As 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 …

1
Nurturing the Roots of Skillful Behavior Using the Teachings of the Pali Canon 17:09

1y ago17:09

17:09

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 overcom…

1
Collective Wisdom Around Clinging and Aversion 16:07

1y ago16:07

16:07

In 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 attachment…

1
Contemplating the Wisdom of “Your Dream Your Rules.” 15:00

1y ago15:00

15:00

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 f…

1
Overcoming the Four Challenges of Wisdom with the Noble Eightfold Path 15:15

1y ago15:15

15:15

Congratulations, 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 challe…

1
Journey to Finding Peace: Exploring Shamanic Practices and the Concept of the Dream 36:47

1y ago36:47

36:47

In 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…

1
The Dance of Rebirth: Reflections on Attachment and Human Connections 8:47

1y ago8:47

8:47

In 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. Thr…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Helpwithgrief Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide