The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Five: Right Livelihood

The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Five: Right Livelihood

Author: Susan Piver March 6, 2026 Duration: 26:42

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In this episode, I explore Right Livelihood, the fifth step on the Noble Eightfold Path. We began with Right View and Right Intention, then moved into speech and action. Now we turn to how we earn a living. It may sound ordinary, but the way we work, relate, and exchange value in the world can either bind us more tightly or support liberation. I share three lenses from the Buddhist tradition to investigate what Right Livelihood might mean for us now.


Highlights

  • Why your job belongs on a path aimed at awakening
  • The foundational teaching: avoid professions that cause harm
  • Work as relational practice, the workplace as a practice community
  • Right Livelihood as Bodhisattva activity in daily life
  • Protection, money, and the spiritual function of financial stability
  • When Buddhism meets consumer culture 
  • How business and interdependence might inform one another


Music After Party

In our after-party, I share “Le Bien, Le Mal” from Jazzmatazz, Vol. 1 by Guru, featuring MC Solaar.

Their collaboration feels like a true exchange. Two artists building something together, each sharpening the other. You can hear the mutual respect. 

You can also listen here.


Thoughts?
You can send your questions or reflections via Instagram DM or through
our form — I’d love to include them in future episodes.

Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat 

Join me at Drala Mountain Center in the Colorado Rockies for Fearless Creativity, a meditation and writing retreat offering dedicated time for creative work alongside guided meditation and conversation. Writers of all genres and levels are welcome, with no prior meditation experience required. 

Learn more and register here.

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Produced by Citizens of Sound

Music by: Derek O'Brien

©Open Heart Project 


In Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver, the ancient wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism meets the messy reality of modern living. Susan Piver, drawing from three decades of personal practice and her role guiding a large online meditation community, acts as a thoughtful companion rather than a distant teacher. Each conversation in this podcast moves beyond theoretical doctrine to explore how core teachings-from the four noble truths to the practice of the paramitas-can be woven into the fabric of daily experience. You’ll hear discussions that feel applicable whether you’re dealing with stress, navigating relationships, or simply seeking a more grounded sense of purpose. The tone is accessible and personal, focusing on direct experience over dogma. This approach makes the podcast a resource for anyone curious about integrating contemplative practice into areas of health, fitness, and personal spirituality, regardless of their background. It’s about finding practical clarity and an open heart amidst life’s constant changes, with Susan offering insights that feel both timeless and immediately useful.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 52

Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver
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Send us Fan MailBuddhism Beyond Belief is a podcast from Susan Piver, a 30 year student of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Open Heart Project, an online meditation community with close to 20000 members.With Susan as…