Combating Greed

Combating Greed

Author: Kate Spina July 15, 2021 Duration: 17:03

Inspired by a Tamar Adler quote in this Vox article, I explore the ways that greed and capitalism lead us to abandon our felt experiences and 4 Buddhist tools we can use as antidotes to greed. I also share quotes from Sharon Salzberg and Ruth King. 


Each week, Toward Light: Practical Buddhism for the Modern World gently bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary living. Guided by Kate Spina, who is trained in the Theravada lineage, these conversations and reflections focus on early Buddhist teachings, translating their core principles into tangible practices for today's unique challenges. This isn't about abstract philosophy; it's about finding a grounded sense of clarity, resilience, and compassion amid the noise of daily life. You'll hear practical guidance that intersects naturally with themes of mental fitness, personal growth, and holistic well-being, all framed within a accessible spiritual context. Kate's approach demystifies these timeless ideas, making them relevant whether you're navigating stress, seeking deeper purpose, or simply curious about a more mindful existence. The Toward Light podcast serves as a thoughtful companion for anyone looking to integrate sustainable, peaceful habits into their modern routine. By focusing on direct applications, the show honors the tradition of making these teachings genuinely useful, supporting listeners in cultivating a steadier, more intentional life one step at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 121

Toward Light: Practical Buddhism for the Modern World
Podcast Episodes
Dharma Practice is Revolutionary [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:22
This week I explore the rebellious origins of Buddhism and how we can connect with this radical practice to dismantle white supremacy and cultivate anti-racism. I look at how these teachings were revolutionary when they…
A Buddhist Reflection on Racism and White Guilt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:03
This week, after the death of George Floyd due to racist police brutality, I feel it’s important to talk about racism and anti-racism and share one Buddhist teaching that can help as we work to be anti-racist. For more r…
The Buddhist Personality Types [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:19
During this pandemic we may find ourselves caught in certain patterns of behavior. When we learn our Buddhist personality type we can learn why we me have certain tendencies and ways to work with them. As with any Buddhi…
Bringing Mindfulness into our Day [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:44
This episode I explore ways to bring mindfulness into our daily life. My working definition of mindfulness is: embodied, non-judgemental awareness of the present moment experience. How can we bring this quality into diff…
5 Tools to help with Difficult Thoughts [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:46
During the COVID-19 pandemic, so many of us are experiencing worry, fear and grief. How can we manage these mind states? How can we stop them from taking over? The Vitakkasanthana Sutta (MN 20) has 5 steps to help remove…
Finding Refuge in Community [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:14
Sangha, community, is a place of refuge that can help us cultivate the Buddhist path. How do we do that when we can no longer meet in person? And how do we benefit from wise community and good friendship? I share part of…
Learning to Let Go [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:11
This week I explore the importance of letting go. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are dealing with changes in multiple aspects of our lives which can lead to grasping and resistance. How can we let go and accept…
Feeling Groundless: Living The Buddha's Teaching on Impermanence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:26
Impermanence, anicca, is one of the three characteristics of existence. While it can be easy to ignore in our daily lives, in the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic, the truth of impermanence cannot be avoided. Using teachi…
Buddhist Coping Tools for Times of Crisis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:28
3 practices to help with managing stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic or any crisis. A meditation on the Four Elements with reference to a book by Bhikkhu Analayo A meditation on Equanimity with a quote from…
Introduction: The Who, What, and Why of Toward Light [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:04
The first episode of the Toward Light podcast! An introduction of me, Kate Spina. Some exploration of the Buddhist teaching that led to the name Toward Light. And my reasoning for starting this podcast and the importance…