Sacred Stream Radio

Afleveringen

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  Episode 144: Remembering Robert Thurman: Part 2: Buddhism is Realism 14.08.2026 39min

  In the second episode of the special series Remembering Robert Thurman, we return to one of the first talks Robert Thurman gave at Sacred Stream, in 2008. On that particular fall evening, another event was taking place at the Sacred Stream Center, so Laura Chandler and Isa Gucciardi invited everyone into their San Francisco living room instead. More than 80 people crowded into the house for what remains one of Bob's most popular Sacred Stream lectures. This previously unreleased material has been divided into two episodes. At the heart of the first part of this teaching is one of Bob's favorite insights: Buddhism is realism. He describes the Dharma as an invitation to see reality more clearly and, through that clearer seeing, to discover our true nature. He explores samsara as the world of mistaken perception we construct when we fail to recognize reality as it is, offers a fresh perspective on the Four Noble Truths, and takes on one of the most persistent misconceptions about Buddhism: the idea that the teaching of "no self" means that we do not actually exist. In this joyfully provocative teaching, Bob invites listeners to become more realistic about who and what they are and to discover the bliss that underlies everything. The result is a wonderful glimpse of Robert Thurman at his most passionate, playful, and illuminating—bringing the Dharma to life with the unmistakable energy, humor, and intellectual clarity that made him such a beloved teacher. To learn more about Robert Thurman and his work, visit bobthurman.com, Tibet House US (thus.org), and Menla Retreat (menla.org).
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  Episode 143: Suzanne Ross: From Awakening to Ascension 31.07.2026 45min

    On this episode, Laura Chandler talks with Suzanne Ross – inspirational speaker, intuitive guide, and the founder of both the Sedona Ascension Retreat and the San Diego Transcendence Retreat. Suzanne is also the author of the Up! book series—featuring Wake Up! and Rise Up! She has dedicated her life to exploring consciousness, spirituality, and the evolution of human awareness, bringing together some of today's leading spiritual teachers with seekers from around the world. In their talk, Suzanne and Laura discuss Suzanne's path, the evolution of consciousness, and the importance of creating spaces where people can come together to learn, grow, and transform. They also discuss the upcoming San Diego Transcendence Retreat, taking place September 19th and 20th, with an incredible lineup of presenters for a weekend of inspiring talks, workshops, and community. Whether you're curious about consciousness, looking to deepen your spiritual practice, or simply seeking inspiration for your own journey, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation. For more information about Suzanne, visit suzannerosstranscendence.com. Learn more about the San Diego Transcendence Retreat at sandiegotranscendenceretreat.com.
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  Episode 142: Remembering Robert Thurman: Part 1: The Dalai Lama & China 16.07.2026 46min

  In the first episode of the Remembering Robert Thurman series, Laura Chandler reflects on the recent passing of Robert A.F. Thurman—renowned Buddhist scholar, bestselling author, educator, and one of the world's foremost interpreters of Tibetan Buddhism. A close friend, mentor, and longtime supporter of the Sacred Stream, Bob devoted his life to making the profound wisdom of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition accessible to modern audiences. He was the Jey Tsong Khapa Professor Emeritus of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University, co-founder of Tibet House US, and a lifelong advocate for the preservation of Tibetan culture and the teachings of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. Recorded during Bob's West Coast book tour for Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of the Dalai Lama of Tibet, this candid conversation took place in the car on the way to a talk at Google. Filled with his trademark humor, brilliant storytelling, and unwavering devotion to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the interview offers a rare glimpse into the warmth, brilliance, and infectious joy that made Bob such an extraordinary teacher and cherished friend. This episode also honors the contributions of composer Dan Walters and legendary recording engineer Jesse Osborne, whose artistry helped bring this conversation to life. Join us as we celebrate the life, legacy, laughter, and enduring wisdom of Robert A.F. Thurman. To learn more about Robert Thurman and his work, visit bobthurman.com, Tibet House US (thus.org), and Menla Retreat (menla.org).
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  Episode 141: Eben Alexander: A Neurosurgeon's Journey Beyond the Brain 03.07.2026 43min

  On this episode of Sacred Stream Radio Podcast, Laura Chandler welcomes renowned neurosurgeon and consciousness researcher Dr. Eben Alexander. After a profound near-death experience during a week-long coma, Dr. Alexander's understanding of the mind, brain, and the nature of reality was forever transformed. His bestselling memoir, Proof of Heaven, which chronicles that extraordinary journey beyond ordinary consciousness, spent 41 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. In this conversation, Laura and Dr. Alexander explore consciousness beyond the brain, the use of binaural tones and sound technologies to access altered states of awareness, and key insights from his book Living in a Mindful Universe. They also discuss the evolving relationship between science, spirituality, and human potential. Dr. Alexander will be appearing at the San Diego Transcendence Retreat, September 18–20, alongside an inspiring lineup of speakers and workshop presenters. Learn more about Dr. Alexander at ebenalexander.com.
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  Episode 140: Deborah Santana: Loving the Fire 05.06.2026 39min

  On this episode, Laura speaks with author and activist Deborah Santana about her new memoir, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom—a story of awakening, courage, and the transformative power of finding one's voice. Deborah shares the arc of her life from growing up as the daughter of pioneering interracial parents to her years alongside legendary musician Carlos Santana. While she embraced many roles—partner, mother, and supporter—this conversation centers on the pivotal moment when she chose to step forward fully as herself, reclaiming her voice and redefining her purpose. At the heart of this episode is Deborah's commitment to uplifting others, particularly women and BIPOC communities. She speaks about how her personal awakening led her into meaningful, impact-driven work—from co-founding Do A Little to supporting education initiatives like Daraja Academy and contributing to cultural preservation through the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her journey illustrates how finding one's voice is not only a personal liberation, but a pathway to collective empowerment. Grounded in stories of resilience, heritage, and spiritual growth, Deborah's story is a call to anyone ready to move beyond old roles, speak their truth, and engage in work that uplifts and transforms lives—starting with their own. To learn more about Deborah, visit deborahsantana.com.
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  Episode 139: Joanna Adler: Listening to the Body 08.05.2026 41min

  Welcome to the Sacred Stream Radio Podcast, brought to you by the Foundation of the Sacred Stream and Red Cow Productions. Hosted by Laura Chandler, this episode features a conversation with licensed clinical psychologist, Depth Hypnosis Practitioner, and executive coach, Joanna Adler. Together, they explore the wisdom of the body—how it stores information, including trauma, and how learning to listen more deeply to its signals can support profound healing across physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Joanna Adler brings a unique integration of clinical expertise and depth-oriented healing practices. She teaches classes in Depth Hypnosis and Coming to Peace at the Sacred Stream and is co-author of the pilot study "Using Depth Hypnosis to Treat Mood Disorders and Raise Well-Being," published in the International Journal of Regression Therapy. She will also be offering a new livestream class through the Sacred Stream, Somatic Wisdom as a Path of Inner Awakening. To learn more about Joanna and her work, visit her website, joannaadler.net.
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  Episode 138: Oneika Mays: Bringing Presence to Prisons 03.04.2026 44min

  On this episode, Laura speaks with author, yoga instructor, and meditation teacher Oneika Mays. They are talking about her new book, Sit with Me: A No-BS Journey to Mindfulness and Meditation. Oneika spent nearly 15 years teaching meditation in yoga studios, hospitals, and correctional facilities, including at Rikers Island. As a queer Black teacher, she emphasizes that meditation isn't just for those who have it all figured out—it's for all of us: the anxious, the heartbroken, the angry, the lost, and those who have been marginalized or overlooked. Pull up a cushion and settle in for this candid conversation on meditation, identity, and showing up as you are. Learn more about Oneika at oneikamays.com.
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  Episode 137: Linda Wobeskya: Zero Balancing 06.03.2026 47min

  Welcome to the Sacred Stream Radio Podcast. In this episode, Laura Chandler talks with Zero Balancing Practitioner and teacher, Linda Wobeskya. Zero Balancing is a hands-on bodywork system conceptually related to acupuncture and grounded in the Eastern understanding of energy and its relationship to physical structure. Unlike acupuncture, however, Zero Balancing uses skilled touch rather than needles and works directly with the energy held within the bones rather than along meridian lines. Within this paradigm, imbalance between structure and energy contributes to pain, stress, reduced function, and diminished well-being. Linda brings together a strong foundation in Western medical training with deep expertise in Zero Balancing, creating a uniquely integrative approach that supports healing across the entire body–mind spectrum. Join us for an illuminating conversation on how touch, energy, and structure intersect to restore balance and well-being. Learn more about Linda at lindawobeskya.com.
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  Episode 136: Tama Kieves: Living an Inspired Life 06.02.2026 54min

  On this episode, Laura speaks with best-selling author and visionary success coach, Tama Kieves. Tama is an honors graduate of Harvard Law School who left a prestigious corporate career in law to follow her passion and now she helps others do the same. Tama has been featured on Oprah Media, Forbes, and ABC News. She has written five books and her latest, Learning to Trust Yourself, is a masterclass in modern intuition. Whether she's teaching at the Omega Institute or on the TEDx stage, she is known for her electrifying presence and her belief that we are all meant to live from inspiration instead of fear. Today she and Laura talk about how to remove the blocks to trusting yourself, following your bliss, and how to wildly succeed in your life's work. To learn more about Tama, visit tamakieves.com.
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  Episode 135: Isa and Laura: Finding Hope in 2026 09.01.2026 48min

  In this episode, Laura sits down with Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D. for a timely and deeply reflective conversation about hope—not as a passive wish, but as an active state and a conscious choice. Together, they explore what it means to live hope as an action in times of collective uncertainty and social fracture. Drawing inspiration from the Bhutanese government's radical commitment to policies that prioritize the happiness and well-being of its people, the conversation opens into a broader inquiry: What if healing and consciousness were central measures of progress? Laura and Isa examine how the deep fractures within our society mirror unresolved splits within the individual psyche—and how healing personal wounding becomes a powerful act of social and spiritual transformation. Rather than bypassing pain, they speak to the necessity of meeting it directly, integrating disowned parts of the self, and allowing this inner work to catalyze a revolution of consciousness. This episode invites listeners to consider spiritual evolution not as an abstract ideal, but as a lived, embodied process—one that begins with healing, deepens awareness, and restores our capacity to imagine and enact a more whole, compassionate world. For more information about Isa, Laura, and the classes they teach at the Sacred Stream, visit isagucciardi.org, laurachandler.net, and sacredstream.org.
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  Episode 134: Cynthia James: Turning Pain into Power 11.12.2025 29min

  On this episode, Laura speaks with Cynthia James—author, musician, Emotional Integration Leadership Coach, and a compelling voice for personal transformation. Cynthia is an inspiring teacher and speaker whose podcast Women Awakening shines a light on the powerful stories of women she believes are catalyzing a collective shift in consciousness on the planet. The author of five books, including What Will Set You Free, I Choose Me, and her latest release, The Kingdom of Magic and Mystery, Cynthia brings deep wisdom and compassion to all she does. Her work is rooted in her own courageous journey of rising above childhood violence and PTSD. In this episode, we explore how Cynthia transformed pain into purpose—and how she now guides others to do the same. She also shares the non-negotiables that keep her grounded and healthy, along with her powerful perspective on how women are reshaping the world through everyday acts of courage and strength. Learn more about Cynthia at cynthiajames.net.
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  Episode 133: Bonnie Buckner: Unlock the Power of Your Dreams 20.11.2025 39min

  On this episode, Laura welcomes dream expert and author of The Secret Mind, Bonnie Buckner. For more than twenty years, Bonnie has taught dreamwork and imagery to people and organizations around the world. She's a Senior Fellow at George Washington University's Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and leads the One Humanity Leadership Coaching program, where she integrates dreamwork into innovative leadership development. She also co-hosts the One Humanity Lab podcast. Together, they explore how to awaken to the wisdom of your dreams—whether you remember them or not—and how dreamwork can help you solve problems and better understand your waking life. Learn more about Bonnie at bonniebuckner.com.
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  Episode 132: Robert Thurman: Wisdom, Bliss, and Albert Einstein 24.10.2025 48min

  In this episode of the Sacred Stream Radio Podcast, host Laura Chandler welcomes Robert Thurman — best-selling author, renowned Buddhist scholar, professor emeritus at Columbia University, and co-founder of Tibet House US and Menla Mountain Retreat. A close friend of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Bob is an eloquent and engaging voice bringing the wisdom of the East into our modern world. Through his lifelong commitment to the preservation and renewal of Tibetan culture, he has helped make Tibet House a vibrant center—offering a museum and programs in all aspects of Tibetan arts and sciences. On this episode, Bob and Laura talk about his latest book, Wisdom is Bliss, the contentiousness of these times, and how happiness is an antidote to fear that can create pathways to a more peaceful and compassionate world. He also talks about the concepts of mis-knowing and enlightenment, as well as his chance meeting with Albert Einstein. This lively and illuminating dialogue is filled with humor, wisdom, and the radiant joy that comes from a life devoted to awakening.
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  Episode: 131: Madi Murphy: Unlocking the 12 Keys of Astrology 25.09.2025 58min

  In this episode, host Laura Chandler speaks with astrologer and author Madi Murphy. Together, they explore the world of astrology and Madi's new book, In the Cosmic Zone, where she introduces the 12 Universal Keys—archetypes rooted in astrology that unlock deeper understanding of our life path. Whether you're new to astrology or a seasoned practitioner, there is plenty to discover in this fun and illuminating conversation. They cover everything from the upcoming eclipses, and the influence of the mystical north and south nodes, to the wisdom each zodiac sign offers us about ourselves. Learn more about Madi at cosmicrx.com.
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  Episode 130: Stephanie James: Igniting Your Inner Spark 28.08.2025 40min

  In this episode, host Laura Chandler speaks with therapist, filmmaker, and Igniting the Spark podcast host, Stephanie James. Together, they dive into Stephanie's new book, Your Big Fat Juicy Life (and Everything After)—a deeply personal and inspiring exploration of death and how facing our fears about it can open the door to a more meaningful and joyful life. Their conversation moves through many fascinating territories—past lives, encounters with the unseen, and the simple daily practices that help us live with greater presence and awareness. Along the way, Stephanie shares powerful personal stories, wisdom from thought leaders, and insights gained from her decades of therapeutic work, offering listeners an invitation to go beyond the ordinary and embrace new ways of being.
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  Episode 129: John Tsilimparis: Flipping the Script on Grief 24.07.2025 35min

  On this episode, host Laura Chandler is joined by therapist, teacher, and author John Tsilimparis for a powerful conversation about his latest book, The Magic in the Tragic: Rewriting the Script on Grief and Discovering Happiness in Our Darkest Days. Together, we explore the complexities of grief and how it can become a transformative path to healing and resilience. John shares insights on emotional vulnerability as a strength, how anxiety can be harnessed as a tool for growth, and the role of creativity and inspiration in navigating difficult emotions. He offers practical tools for developing emotional resilience and reframing painful experiences to uncover meaning and joy, even in the midst of loss. John is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, and recovery. He's been featured on The View, Larry King Live, and the A&E series Obsessed. He is also the host of the podcast Mindfulness for the Soul. Learn more at johntsilimparis.com.
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  Episode 128: Venerable Ani Choyang: A Buddhist Nun's Path to Liberation 26.06.2025 1u 1min

  Welcome to the Sacred Stream Radio Podcast. I'm your host, Laura Chandler, and on today's episode, I speak with Tibetan Buddhist nun, Venerable Ani Choyang. Ani is part of a distinguished group of Tibetan nuns on the path to earning the highest degree in Buddhist Philosophy—an honor that, until recently, was reserved exclusively for men. Her academic achievements extend beyond traditional studies into the realm of Western science. In this conversation, Ani shares the powerful story of her escape from Chinese-occupied Tibet, where she spent her early years working in a factory with limited access to education. She speaks about the challenges and triumphs of learning the Tibetan language and discovering Tibetan culture for the first time at age 18. We also explore her inspiring academic journey and her unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities for nuns and women alike. Ani Choyang was the first nun from Tibet to be awarded the prestigious Tenzin Gyatso Science Scholarship from Emory University in Atlanta. She has also completed an internship in neuroscience at Northwestern University and is currently involved in a groundbreaking research project on lucid dreaming and dream yoga. Ani is a resident nun and science teacher at Jangchub Choeling Nunnery in Mundgod, India. She also serves as the Coordinator of the Library and Learning Center, a new facility under development at the nunnery that will offer nuns a comprehensive education in both Buddhist studies and Western subjects.
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  Episode 127: Isa and Laura: Healing with Depth Hypnosis 30.05.2025 47min

  On this episode, Laura is joined by author, counselor, and renowned teacher, Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D., to discuss her new book, Depth Hypnosis: A Path to Healing, Power, and Transformation. Isa is the creator of Depth Hypnosis, a pioneering psycho-spiritual healing modality that has empowered thousands to lead happier, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. Depth Hypnosis is a unique, integrative approach that weaves together ancient wisdom and contemporary psychological insight. Drawing from traditions such as Buddhism, shamanism, energy medicine, and transpersonal psychology, it effectively addresses a wide range of issues, including addiction, anxiety, depression, and spiritual crises. With advanced degrees in cultural and linguistic anthropology, comparative religion, and transpersonal psychology, Isa has spent over 30 years studying spiritual, therapeutic, and meditative techniques from around the world. She is an early pioneer in bringing shamanic and Buddhist perspectives into the clinical setting. Isa is also the founding director of the Sacred Stream and teaches and lectures internationally
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  Episode 126: Thupten Jinpa: Part 2: A Live Q&A 01.05.2025 36min

  In this edition, we welcome renowned Buddhist scholar and teacher, Thupten Jinpa, Ph.D., as he answers audience questions following a recent talk at the Sacred Stream. An excerpt from this compelling conversation can be heard in Episode 125: Thupten Jinpa: Part 1: Making Friends with our Minds. In this thoughtful Q&A session, Jinpa shares deep insights on parenting, cultivating compassion amidst adversity, navigating difficult emotions, and facing death with clarity and courage. Drawing on decades of experience, he also recounts a powerful and personal story of his childhood escape from Tibet and the hardships he faced growing up in exile in India. Since 1985, Jinpa has served as the principal English translator for His Holiness the Dalai Lama, translating and editing more than ten of the Dalai Lama's books, along with several acclaimed works of his own. He is the Board Chair of the Mind & Life Institute, founder and president of the Compassion Institute, and a visiting research scholar at the Stanford Institute for Neuro-Innovation and Translational Neurosciences.
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  Episode 125: Thupten Jinpa: Part 1: Making Friends with our Minds 10.04.2025 26min

  On this episode, we are sharing an excerpt from a recent talk at the Sacred Stream by esteemed author, former Tibetan Buddhist monk, and renowned Buddhist teacher, Thupten Jinpa, Ph.D. Jinpa has been the principal English translator for the Dalai Lama since 1985 and has translated and edited more than ten of his books, along with writing several of his own. He serves as the Board Chair of the Mind & Life Institute, is the founder and president of the Compassion Institute, and is a visiting research scholar at the Stanford Institute for Neuro-Innovation and Translational Neurosciences. In this insightful talk, Jinpa explores the importance of befriending our minds—an essential practice for navigating challenges and fostering a more joyful, fulfilling life. He has written and lectured extensively on Lojong, the Tibetan practice of Mind Training, and offers wisdom that is both practical and deeply transformative.