Show 97 — Radical Acceptance

Show 97 — Radical Acceptance

Author: Tod Perry April 14, 2025 Duration: 0:00
Prompted by a passage in Derek Lin’s “Tao of Joy” book, Tod and George discuss the Taoist attitude of radically accepting the external world and ourselves. Plus, a listener asks about the difference between Taoism and Buddhism. GoFundMe: Care for Dr. Carl Totton in His Final Days

Back in 2015, a conversation began between journalist Tod Perry and Dr. Carl Totton-a unique dialogue that evolved into What's This Tao All About?. Dr. Totton brings a fascinating perspective as a Doctor of Psychology, founder of the Taoist Institute, and even a member of the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Together, they embark on a lighthearted yet profound journey through the ancient wisdom of the Tao. This isn't a dry lecture; it's an accessible and engaging exploration designed for the curious, whether you're deeply spiritual or simply wondering what these ideas are all about. Each episode delves into the basic, often misunderstood concepts of Taoism and walks through the chapters of the foundational text, "The Tao Te Ching." You'll hear their discussions unpack how these teachings apply to the flow and challenges of modern life, from personal psychology to everyday decisions. The charm of this podcast lies in the genuine, meandering dialogue between the two hosts, making profound philosophy feel like a relatable conversation. It’s a chance to listen in as they parse out what it means to live in harmony, embrace simplicity, and understand the natural way of things.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 112

What's This Tao All About?
Podcast Episodes
Show 57 — The Empty Boat [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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“The Empty Boat” is a powerful parable by Chuang-Tzu, Dr. Totton and Tod take a deep dive to figure out what it means. Later, a listener asks a question about prayer.
Show 55 — The Tao of Carl Jung and Chapter 44 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Dr. Totton digs deep into psychologist Carl Jung and his deep connection to the Tao. Later, we crack open the “Tao Te Ching” and investigate Chapter 44.
Show # 54 — Feeling the Tao, Dude and Chapters 35 and 43 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Dr. Totton and Tod consult the wisdom of “The Big Lebowski”-inspired “Dude De Ching” to discuss societal organization and chapter 35 of the “Tao Te Ching.” Also, a listener writes in asking how to feel the Tao.
Show # 53 — The Environment and Tzu-Jan [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Dr. Totton and Tod discuss Tzu-Jan which is known as the “heart of the Tao” and give some Taoist perspective on the environment.
Show # 52 — Taoist Morality and Chapter 28 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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What is the basis for Taoist morality? Dr. Totton and Tod take a look into the moral principals of Taoist thought. Later, an examination of Chapter 28 of the “Tao Te Ching.”
Show # 51 — Psychic Cleansing and Chapter 45 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Dr. Totton shares some techniquesto help us cleanse our minds and free ourselves from attachment. Later, Chapter 45 of the “Tao Te Ching.” Right click to download The Mind, Cleaning, Karma, and Life.
Show # 50 — The Meaning of Life and Chapter 38 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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From a Taoist perspective, what is the meaning of life? Dr. Totton and Tod attempt to address this massive question in under 20 minutes. Later, chapter 38 of the “Tao Te Ching” a verse that Dr. Totton refers to as a “pow…
Show # 49 — Your True Self and Chapter 27 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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How do you really find your “true self”? Does such a thing really exist? Dr. Totton and Tod examine the idea from a Taoist perspective.
Show #48 – 10-Day Gong and Listener Mail [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Dr. Totton has created a ten-day gong to help people become more in touch with themselves and the Tao. Later, Dr. Totton and Tod answer a listener’s question about being in tune with reality. Right click to download a .d…