A Buddhist Monk's Candid Truths About Dissatisfaction, Anger & Finding Happiness

A Buddhist Monk's Candid Truths About Dissatisfaction, Anger & Finding Happiness

Author: The Modern Buddhism Podcast September 9, 2026 Duration: 46:39

In today's episode, host Rebecca Gauthier interviews Buddhist monk Gen Kelsang Dragpa.

Gen Dragpa shares his journey from a discontented youth to finding deep purpose through Kadampa Buddhism. Reflecting on his personal struggles with anger, expectations, and a painful relationship separation, he explains how Buddha's teachings function as a supportive mirror - helping us understand our own minds rather than blaming external circumstances. He discusses the power of simple meditation practices, the transformative experience of meeting his spiritual guide Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, and the reality of navigating inner challenges even after ordination.

Through candid reflections on avoiding perfectionism and resisting instant gratification, this conversation highlights how working on inner peace creates genuine, positive change in the world around us.


00:00 Early Discontentment and Quest for Freedom 

05:54 Reggae, Relationships, and Searching for Control 

11:15 Discovering the Practical Science of Meditation 

16:44 Using Buddha's Teachings as a Mirror 

22:00 Meeting Geshe Kelsang and Requesting Ordination 

27:30 Real Monk Challenges and Inner Kindness 

32:44 Facing Fear and Becoming a Resident Teacher 

38:02 Countering Distraction to Find Lasting Meaning


There’s a quiet space between the rush of daily life and the ancient wisdom of Buddhist teachings, and that’s where you’ll find The Modern Buddhism Podcast. Rather than presenting philosophy as a distant theory, this series focuses on tangible, practical application. Each episode features conversations with individuals who are actively integrating meditation and Buddha’s insights into their modern routines, demonstrating how these practices foster genuine resilience and a more steady sense of contentment. The discussions are grounded in real experience, exploring how inner peace isn’t about retreating from the world but engaging with it more skillfully. You’ll hear from a variety of voices within the New Kadampa Tradition, who produce the podcast, sharing their personal journeys and the subtle shifts in perspective that come from consistent practice. This isn’t about abstract ideals; it’s about the texture of daily life-managing stress, navigating relationships, and finding moments of happiness amidst ordinary challenges. Tuning into this podcast feels like joining a thoughtful dialogue where timeless principles meet contemporary questions, offering listeners a resource for cultivating a stronger, more peaceful mind right where they are.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 43

The Modern Buddhism Podcast
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