I Gave Up Everything (Best Decision I Ever Made)

I Gave Up Everything (Best Decision I Ever Made)

Author: The Modern Buddhism Podcast July 1, 2026 Duration: 50:12

In today’s episode, Gen Chodor reflects on a powerful feeling he had as a young person - that life seemed almost dream-like - and how this sparked a deep search for meaning and purpose. Drawing on the wisdom of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, he explores how meditation can help us see reality more clearly, free ourselves from distraction, and discover a deeper, more lasting sense of inner peace.

The conversation explores the transformative impact of meeting authentic spiritual teachings, the decision to dedicate one's life to Dharma practice, and the profound benefits of training the mind. Through personal stories and practical insights, Gen Chodor shows how genuine happiness and purpose arise not from external achievements, but from developing wisdom, compassion, and a positive state of mind.


Chapters

00:00 Questioning Reality and Finding Buddhism

05:21 Meaning, Happiness and Inner Development

10:09 Morning Meditation and Setting Direction

13:03 Leaving Corporate Life Behind

20:18 Death, Impermanence and Living Without Regret

28:35 Why Spiritual Life Brings Meaning

31:17 Discovering Your Authentic Self

36:07 Grasping, Reality and the Dreamlike Self

43:20 The Extraordinary Potential of the Mind

49:04 Books and Final Advice


Book References

How To Transform Your Life by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso

How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso


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#Buddhism #Meditation #Kadampa #NewKadampaTradition #GesheKelsangGyatso #MindTraining #InnerPeace #LucidDreaming #SpiritualGrowth #BuddhistWisdom #HowToUnderstandTheMind #ModernBuddhism #Concentration #MeaningOfLife



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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