Mindrolling with Raghu Markus

Author and music executive Danny Goldberg joins Raghu to talk about tapping into the basic goodness inside us all.This week on Mindrolling, Danny and Raghu discuss:Our basic goodness as human beingsThe deep spiritual experiences that can happen outside of organized religionBreathing contemporary life into ancient spirituality Govinda, a famous devotional track produced by George Harrison Universalism and taking different paths to the same placeGandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and nonviolent resistance Seeing everyone as the Buddha, as ‘God in drag’Wise Compassion: Using your brain and your heartAbout Danny Goldberg:Danny Goldberg is an author and music executive who has spent decades in the business. As a manager, Danny represented Bonnie Raitt, Nirvana, The Allman Brothers Band, and Sonic Youth. As a label executive, he was President of Atlantic Records, and Chairman of Warner Bros. Records and the Mercury Records Group – among others. Danny Goldberg’s previous books include Bloody Crossroads 2020: Art,…

Outlining our inevitable oneness with the world, Buddhist scholar Jack Petranker joins Raghu to explore letting go of habitual stories and fully inhabiting each moment.

From Bob Marley to Chogyam Trungpa and Ram Dass, David and Raghu explore the many paths that lead us back to one love.

Drawing on mythology and ancient storytelling, author Michael Meade shares how we can renew the earth through personal and cultural transformation.

Duncan Trussell and Raghu Markus examine cynicism, bewilderment, and spiritual materialism, considering what can happen if we drop our defenses and experience the present moment fully.Check out Duncan Trussell and Kurt Metzger’s new podcast, The Mystery Boys, where ancient mysteries, modern misinformation, and aggressively positive curiosity collide.In this episode, Duncan and Raghu chat about:Being cynical versus being rational Chogyum Trungpa Rinpoche’s perspective on spiritual materialism Letting go and swimming through the moment Meditation as the remedy for bewildermentLarry David, Ram Dass, and working with cynicism Navigating fear, anxiety, and troublesome global news How religious fundamentalism steers people away from practiceCheck out Chögyum Trungpa’s books Cynicism and Magic and Cutting Through Spiritual MaterialismAbout Duncan Trussell:Duncan Trussell is a stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor. His popular podcast, The Duncan Trussell Family Hour, has been downloaded over 25 million times and…

David, Raghu, and Sharon consider how devotion, meditation, truth, and compassion can tend the love already within us, bringing it into the way we meet ourselves, others, and the world.This episode was recorded live from the 2026 Ram Dass Legacy Summer Mountain Retreat. Watch the full event on the Ram Dass’ Inner Academy, a curated collection of deep wisdom from Ram Dass, practice, and community: Learn MoreIn this episode, David, Raghu, and Sharon discuss: The compassion to let people be as they are (so long as they aren’t harming others)Love as an ability rather than just a feelingTending to the love that already exists within us Approaching situations from wisdom and balance rather than reactive emotionsDevotion and objects of refuge in meditation practiceA straightforward instruction from Maharaj-ji: love everyone and tell the truthRemembering that having boundaries does not mean a lack of loveAbout David Nichtern: David Nichtern, founder of Dharma Moon, is a senior Buddhist teacher who has been…

Turning back time to 2018, we revisit a conversation between Dr. Thurman and Raghu Markus about facing reality, transforming our reactivity, and understanding karma.You can help continue Dr. Thurman’s life’s work to preserve Tibetan culture. Visit Tibet House to learn more.In this episode, Robert Thurman and Raghu explore: Buddhism as a realistic approach to understanding realityThe projections and stories we tell ourselves every dayWorking with fear and judgment in meditationEntering the gaps of mental reactivityKarma: an intentional action with evolutionary consequencesThe relationship between self-awareness and the direction of our karmaBuddhist perspectives on rebirth and reincarnationThe distinction between unconscious rebirth and consciously choosing to returnNeem Karoli Baba and the experience of living completely in realityThe intimate connection between absolute reality and unconditional loveAbout Dr. Robert Thurman: Robert Thurman (1941-2026) was an American Buddhist author and academic who wrote,…

Tommy Rosen, Gagan Levy, and Raghu Markus explore addiction and the everyday choices that shape recovery and a meaningful life.Be part of the Recovery 2.0 community with online recovery meetings that are open to anyone: Click Here to RegisterThis time on Mindrolling, Tommy, Gagan and Raghu explore: Growing up in a home filled with anxiety and developing a sense that something is always wrongHow oftentimes addiction comes from seeking relief and homeostasis Distraction and Procrastination as forms of addictionRam Dass’s approach to working with habits of the mindFacing the long, dark night of the soulThe ‘nitty-gritty’ of how we choose to live our livesThe five core tenets of Tommy’s program, ‘Recovery 2.0’How working the 12-steps guarantees a spiritual experienceTending to the needs of mind, body, and soul About Tommy Rosen:Tommy Rosen is the founder and host of the Recovery 2.0: Beyond Addiction Online Conference and presents workshops annually at Esalen, Omega, and Kripalu. One of the pioneers in the…

Melvin McLeod, editor of Lion’s Roar, shares his new vision of mindfulness as a complete way of living, from cultivating concentration and awareness to understanding our place in the universe.Check out Melvin’s podcast series, The Complete Path of Mindfulness, where he talks with leaders in the field about a groundbreaking new advance in mindfulness practice. Melvin and his guests explore mindfulness as not only a helpful meditation technique, but as a complete, transformative path of life. This time on Mindrolling, Melvin and Raghu explore: Looking into what this life and universe is all aboutLeading happier and more meaningful livesSeeing mindfulness as a complete path of lifeMelvin’s four identified keys of mindfulness Inspiration from Thich Nhat Hanh, one of the most important spiritual teachers of this ageDeveloping the power of concentration Following a path without adopting a formal religion Recognizing our deep, intimate connection with all thingsInvestigating the nature of awarenessTaming the mind…

Challenging our perceptions of reality, Samuel Bercholz and Raghu discuss loosening the ego’s grip through meditation and opening to the humor beneath it all.Click HERE to preorder Samuel’s upcoming book, Rude Awakenings: An Unconventional Guide to the Buddhist PathThis time on Mindrolling, Samuel and Raghu explore: Dipping a toe into all religions and learning how to meditateThe humble beginnings of Shambhala PublicationsAddictions to ego and so-called reality Witnessing the beautiful emptiness within Chogyam Trungpa RinpocheHow Ram Dass moved within many different spiritual circlesEntering the mind of Buddha through meditation Stepping out of the bureaucracy of egoNot being too serious / blending love and humorAbout Samuel Bercholz:Sam Bercholz is a senior teacher in the Nyingma and Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of Shambhala Publications. He was a close disciple of Kyabje Thinley Norbu Rinpoche and Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, and was empowered by them to teach and given the title Acharya…

Explaining the South African Philosophy of Ubuntu, traditional healer John Lockley discusses ancestral connection and the wisdom of our collective human story.In this episode, John and Raghu explore: Giving thanks to our biological ancestors Reconciling with ancestors who may have done bad deedsCalling in the names of our ancestors as a path to honoring all of our human relationsJohn’s experience being raised through Apartheid in South AfricaHow Nelson Mandela spread the teachings of UbuntuConnecting to our dreams to connect to our humanity and our ancestorsThe circle of Ubuntu and realizing that we are all equal Humility as the foundation of any spiritual practiceA guided ancestral practice from JohnAbout John Lockley:John Lockley began his journey as a young medic drafted into the South African military. He then trained under Zen master Su Bong from South Korea, and returned to post-Apartheid South Africa to spend 10 years in apprenticeship with MaMngwevu, a medicine woman from the Xhosa tribe. His…

Philosopher-artist and psychotherapist Todd Fink joins Raghu to trace the threads that connect art, science, and mysticism.Grab a copy of Todd’s first book, Losslessness: reflections on impermanence, glimpses of forever, HERE!This time on Mindrolling, Todd and Raghu chat about: Diving into mysticism and how every part contains the wholeQuantum physics and the observer effectImpermanence and seeing the eternal in all thingsSacred friction and ‘irritating the status quo’Abhaya: shedding the illusion and revealing fearlessness How Maharaj-ji led people to both Bhakti Yoga and BuddhismThe inseparability of love and discriminating wisdom Trust, sincerity, and courage in practiceAbout Todd Fink:Along with his brother E. Fink, Todd co-founded the acclaimed music group The Giving Tree Band. He’s had an album reach the Top 40 on the Americana Radio Charts, and the Kind Mind podcast has been a top show globally in the categories of philosophy and self-help. An Ivy League-trained licensed psychotherapist, he also holds…

Psychotherapist and author David Richo shares how to move past the destructive urge to retaliate through principles of psychology, Buddhism, and more.Grab a copy of David’s newest book, Sweeter than Revenge: Overcoming Your Payback Mind and Achieving Real Connection in all Your RelationshipsThis time on Mindrolling, David and Raghu discuss: Retaliation and separateness as the ego’s favorite sportsRolling with the punches and not expecting full acknowledgment from everyoneExpanding our ability to handle whatever happens in lifeSaying ‘yes’ to the opportunity of graceRighteousness versus healthy communicationForbearance: how long-term mindfulness practice can help us be less reactive Opening the path to enlightenment through forgivenessAbout David Richo:David Richo, PhD, MFT, is a psychotherapist, teacher, workshop leader, and writer who works in Santa Barbara and San Francisco, California. He combines Jungian, poetic, and mythic perspectives in his work with the intention of integrating the psychological and…

Gagan Levy, founder/CEO of Guru, explores how to integrate the eight limbs of yoga into business and leadership practices. Grab a copy of Gagan’s book, Start Your Own Damn Cult, A Founder's Field Guide, for a practical and actionable framework for building from coherence, holding power without unraveling, and winning without wrecking yourself, your team, or the planet.This week on Mindrolling, Gagan and Raghu discuss: Bhakti Yoga and sitting in moments of joy Incorporating spirituality into businessGagan’s first meeting with Ram DassIntegrating the eight limbs of yoga into leadership How authenticity beats perfection every single timeGagan’s explanation of the ‘integrity inventory’Hanuman as a helpful reminder of the aspirational self About Gagan Levy:Gagan Levy is the Founder/CEO of Guru, an award-winning creative agency dedicated to serving purpose-driven movements, brands, and organizations. They work with impactful brands like Patagonia, Traditional Medicinals, Nalgene, Non-GMO, The Organic Alliance,…

Duncan Trussell joins Raghu Markus and Kelly Rego for a heartfelt conversation on Ram Dass’s enduring legacy and the auspicious experiences that brought the Be Here Now Network team together.In this episode, Duncan, Raghu, & Kelly discuss:Duncan’s introduction to Ram Dass: swimming, playing, and seeing the light again How Ram Dass helped Duncan process the loss of his motherSpreading Ram Dass’s love and legacy through the Be Here Now NetworkHow the universe guides us right to where we need to beMoving through a dark night of the soul The lasting love we have for those we have lost The profound generosity of giving our full attention to another About Kelly Rego:Kelly Rego is an Integrated Marketing & Media Specialist. An Emerson College alumni, Kelly has over 15 years experience of facilitating projects into reality. She has worked as a Peace Corps Volunteer with women’s groups and dairy cooperatives in Costa Rica, a media strategist and buyer in New York City, and has produced a full-length documentary.Kelly…

Meditation master and teacher Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche explores tools for success from Tibetan wisdom on mindfulness, gratitude, and more. Get your own copy of The Tibetan Book of Success HERE.This week on Mindrolling, Orgyen and Raghu discuss: What life was like for Orgyen growing up in a remote village in Tibet The Tibetan Buddhist leader Khenpo Jigme PhuntsokReframing the construct of ‘success’The 10 powers that lead us to success: wisdom, integrity, decency, mindfulness, fairness, reliability, gratitude, hopefulness, faith, generosity Lessons from Mipham RinpocheThe necessity of respect for good communication Navigating conflict through mindfulness and decency Self-awareness as the number one tool for good communication How inner emptiness shapes how we see the worldDiscriminating awareness, deciding what to accept vs. what to rejectAbout Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche:Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche is a meditation teacher and master in the Nyingma lineage of the Buddhist tradition residing in the San Francisco Bay…

Be Here Now Network invites you to listen to this special look back at Dr. Robert Thurman’s many appearances on Mindrolling. We hear about Ram Dass, surfing reality, keeping an open heart, and so much more. You can help continue Dr. Thurman’s life’s work to preserve Tibetan culture. Visit Tibet House to learn more.Spanning 10 years of collaboration with the podcast, Dr. Thurman talks about: His decades-long friendship with Ram DassUnclamping the heart and seeing our connection with all people Clearing out the poison of fear and judgment The precious gem of our human embodiment, the waking bardo Surfing through reality, rather than trying to control itA realistic take on the Eightfold Path and right livelihood How releasing selfishness actually benefits us and creates joyLessons on altruism & education from the Dalai Lama Cultivating both a clever mind and an open heart About Dr. Robert Thurman:Robert Thurman (1941-2026) was an American Buddhist author and academic who wrote, edited, and translated many books…

Author Phil Goldberg explores the laws of karma as an educational tool for awakening rather than as a system of spiritual judgment. Help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Learn more and give here: BHNN 10th Birthday FundraiserThis week on Mindrolling, Phil and Raghu discuss: The rise of karma in American pop culture The Law of Karma by Dr. Robert Svoboda Looking to science to understand the laws of karma Exploring consciousness through The Secret of Secrets by Dan BrownHow the same action can produce different karmas depending on our states of mindEvery moment as the result of karmaGrab a copy of Phil's book, Karmic Relief, and explore more about karma and how it can be used.About Phil Goldberg:Philip Goldberg is the author or co-author of numerous books, including the award-winning American Veda: From Emerson and the Beatles to Yoga and Meditation, How Indian Spirituality Changed the World…

Old friends RamDev and Raghu revisit memories of Maharaj-ji as they explore the wisdom of holding both joy and sorrow in the awakened heart.Help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Learn more and give here: BHNN 10th Birthday FundraiserIn this episode, Raghu and RamDev have a conversation on: Memories with Maharaj-ji from Allahabad (now Prayagraj), IndiaThe Tibetan Buddhist concept of Rigpa (the awakened mind)K.C. Tewari’s constant mindfulness and advanced yogic stateHonoring the religion of our roots as we explore spirituality Compassion: keeping your heart open when there is suffering Tantric Buddhism and empowerment Holding both joy and sadness at the same time Shifting from the cerebral to embodied mindfulness practice ‘Minding the gap’ between thoughts and the breath Coming out on June 16th, preorder RamDev’s newest book: How to Live So You Can Die Without FearAbout RamDev:RamDev Dale…

Help us celebrate 10 years of Be Here Now Network and support the next chapter of Ram Dass Here and Now. Gifts are matched dollar for dollar through June 30. Learn more and give at: BHNN 10th Birthday FundraiserJoseph Goldstein, along with Noah & Raghu Markus, discuss how to maintain a balance of compassion and equanimity for a more peaceful life. This time on Mindrolling, Joseph, Noah, and Raghu explore: Buddhist philosophy on relative truth vs. ultimate truth Feeling the body as an energy field of changing sensations rather than something solidHow one can tend the heart in troubled timesThe manifestations of reactivity that make the heart retract Seeing our reality as a blip in cosmic time Inspiring awe through nature as a way to open and soften the heartThe book Fall of Civilizations by Paul Cooper Balancing the qualities of compassion and equanimity Investigating the phenomena of thinking rather than the content of a thought Lessons on direct experience from the Bāhiya SuttaAbout Joseph Goldstein:Joseph…

Author and speaker Eric Zimmer shares how committing to small, sustainable habits transformed his life—moving him from addiction and homelessness to integrity and meaning.

From her research into female spiritual role models, Writer Erica Bassani joins Raghu to discuss her new book which offers an exploration of faith, practice, and feminine power.

Author, journalist, and co-founder of DoubleBlind, Madison Margolin, joins Raghu to explore her latest project: creating a roadmap to tripping, microdosing, and beyond.

Exploring the healing power of prayer and belief, Dr. Joshua Brown interweaves cognitive neuroscience with faith-based experiences.Preorder a copy of Joshua’s book, Proving a Miracle, HERE.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu and Joshua explore: Joshua’s fascination with the brain as a machine How a medical crisis shifted Joshua’s life path The impact of the spiritual on our physical selves Living between the worlds of neuroscience and faithHow we form beliefs and how those beliefs affect our healthThe power of community and seeking out unique experiencesJoshua’s own experience witnessing miracles Choosing hope and accepting the risk of disappointment How Artificial Intelligence is trained through predictions About Joshua Brown, PhD:Dr. Joshua W. Brown is a professor of Psychological and Brain Science at Indiana University, where he directs the Cognitive Control Lab. He also co-founded the Global Medical Research Institute. With decades of experience in computational neuroscience and over 79 peer-reviewed…

Drawing from decades of Buddhist practice and lived experience, Lodro Rinzler helps listeners overcome self-doubt and reconnect with their inherent goodness.Grab a copy of Lodro Rinzler’s recently released book, You Are Good, You Are Enough.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu and Lodro explore: Keeping an open mind towards all wisdom traditions Lessons from Tibetan master Khandro RinpocheHaving gratitude for obstacles and challenges Recognizing where seeds of doubt have been planted in our livesThe insidious inner voice that tries to convince us we are not complete as isGetting in touch with our awakened natureHow doubt can actually manifest as arrogance (I know better than to trust these people, these things)Capitalism and how industries make money off the idea that we are not okayLearning to love ourselves unconditionallyGrappling with the fact that every human being has inherent, basic goodnessThe gift of offering another our undivided attentionAbout Lodro Rinzler:Lodro Rinzler is a Buddhist meditation…

Exploring her “No-BS” approach to yoga and mindfulness, Oneika Mays joins Raghu Markus to discuss the amazing things that happen when we sit down and get in tune with ourselves. Grab a copy of Oneika’s recently released book, Sit with MeIn this episode, Raghu and Oneika chat about: The false sense of protection that comes from building emotional walls Grief and coping with the sense that things are unfinished Finding oneself over and over again through yoga and mindfulness practice Noticing internal sensations, emotions, desires, and beyond on the yoga matOneika’s transformative work in the prison system and learning to appreciate the concept of seva (service)Looking deeply into our sense of resistance Love as a strength rather than a weaknessRam Dass’s practice of loving awareness and getting excited about the power of loveA prayer for all beings to be happy and freeHealing and restoration rather than punishment and incarceration About Oneika Mays:Oneika Mays, she/her, LMT, E-RYT, is a multi-hyphenate…

With loving remembrance for Raghu’s nephew, Shiva Baum, Mindrolling presents this 2014 rerelease, in which Shiva, Raghu, and David Silver explore how music shapes an era, from the wild sixties to the weird now.Please consider supporting Shiva’s family via GoFundMe. Funds raised will go toward cremation and memorial expenses, immediate living and housing costs, and ongoing support as Radha and Mohan navigate life after his passing. Learn more: Supporting Shiva Baum And His FamilyIn this episode, Raghu, Shiva, and David discuss: The magic of Bruce Springsteen and the collective heart that he createsHow changes in music signify the shift of an era How Neil Young’s song Sugar Mountain shaped Shiva’s conscious relationship to musicThe divine consciousness that was active in popular music throughout the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, and 90’sVoting for a higher consciousness in politics How the internet and being hyper-aware of global tragedies can be overwhelming Shiva and Raghu’s work with Triloka Records involves producing…

Discussing the inspiration behind her upcoming album, Bhumi Devi, Nina Rao and Raghu Markus explore preserving the planet and devotion to the sacred mother.Support the pre-sale of Bhumi Devi with exclusive reward levels on Kickstarter until June 2. Click here for more information.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu and Nina chat about: Moderating our consumption and doing our best to heal the earthNina’s work in preserving wilderness areasWisely receiving gifts from Mother Earth while preserving uncorrupted landsThe unconditional love and presence that resonates through Maharaj-jiThe reciprocal relationship we have with the divineWhen Nina met Siddhi Ma, and seeing her as merged with Maharaj-jiThe first time Nina chanted for Siddhi MaSatsang: connecting with Maharaj-ji through communityPrayers to the Goddess in Nina’s new album, Bhumi Devi Check out Almost Home with Mirabai Bush, Nina Rao, Krishna Das & Sunanda Markus on Ep. 269 of the BHNN Guest PodcastAbout Nina Rao:Nina Rao is a devotional singer. She tours…

Interfaith peace counselor Patrick McCollum and documentary filmmaker Gabe Polsky share the powerful prophecy that united the Amazon and led to making their film, The Man Who Saves the World?Click here to find screenings of The Man Who Saves the World? near you.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu speaks with his guests, Gabe and Patrick, about: The origin story behind The Man Who Saves the World? and the real-life journey that inspired the filmHow diverse Amazonian tribes are connected through shared spiritual practices and plant communicationThe meaning of the Roxa Prophecy and why the Amazon is considered the “heart of the world”Efforts to unite the Amazonian tribes to save the rainforest and its inhabitants Our universal journey to understand reality and our purpose in lifeHow psychedelics, indigenous wisdom, and other spiritual pursuits open doors to new perspectivesBursting the bubble of our constructed reality Patrick’s work as a bridge between “the people of the concrete” (modern society) and the…

Dr. Phil Wolfson offers his seasoned perspective on psychedelics, ketamine assisted therapy, and more in this expansive talk with Raghu Markus and Gagan Levy.Check out these FREE personal & clinical guidelines for use from the Ketamine Research FoundationThis week on Mindrolling, Raghu, Phil, and Gagan discuss:How psychedelics shaped Phil’s worldview in the 1960s and inspired his commitment to social justiceUsing psychedelics as tools for personal growth, healing, and transformationThe importance of set and setting when taking psychedelics recreationally, therapeutically, or ceremoniously Going beyond the ups and downs of psychedelics and finding steady peace through practiceThe persistent anti-depressant effects of Ketamine and its therapeutic promisePhil’s ongoing studies with the Ketamine Research Foundation for phantom limb pain, end-of-life care, and menstrual cycle disordersMind Manifesting: What exactly happens to the brain on psychedelics?Phil’s ‘bottom line’: positive intentions and practical…

In this rich conversation bridging Zen and Jewish mysticism, Rabbi Rami Shapiro and Raghu Markus navigate nonduality, the shadow, and the living experience of the divine.Grab a copy of Rabbi Rami’s newest book, Zen Mind Jewish Mind, HERE This time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Rabbi Rami discuss:Veering off from traditional Judaism and into Jewish mysticism Nondual awareness as the realm of divine consciousnessGoing beyond the dead word and into the living wordInspiration from Shunryu Suzuki Roshi’s classic Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind and Thich Nhat Hanh’s series on How to LiveKoan: the Zen practice of exhausting the logical mind to provoke direct, intuitive insight into reality and one's own natureRecognizing our own shadow rather than pretending it does not exist Holding multiple truths at once: there is no other, we are all part of a whole, and we do have differencesHow the Kabbalah expresses the name of God in an embodied waySeeing the divine in all humans and everything in front of usSpecial moments with Ram…

Dakota Wint meets Raghu beyond the veil of normal perception to explore mysticism, altered states, and the fringe of spirituality.Subscribe to Dakota’s new series, The Flower Heads Show, on your favorite podcast app.This time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Dakota explore:The Aghori people of India and the side of Hinduism a lot of people don't know aboutDr. Robert Svoboda’s trilogy on the Aghori people: At the Left Hand of GodDifferentiating real prayer from performative ritualsFaith and seeing beyond the veil of our normal perception Considering the limits of spirituality and how it is expressed across culturesDissolving polarities and seeing the universality of all beingsTaking wisdom from Ram Dass through his posthumous book, There is No OtherRealizing that wisdom and spirituality does not require travel or psychedelicsDakota’s experience with plant medicine in the Amazonian jungleFaith and remembering the mystery in day-to-day lifeThe eternal light of the Sadhu and reaching enlightened states without…

From Tibetan Buddhism to Bhakti Yoga, Raghu and author Vincent Thibault explore reshaping the mind in our chaotic world.Grab a copy of Vincent’s book: Overflow: A Buddhist Guide to Recovering Sanity in the Age of Information Overload | Vincent ThibaultThis time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Vincent journey through:Vincent’s early exposure to literature and the roots of his interest in Eastern philosophy and contemplative traditionsNavigating digital overwhelm and content overload in the modern ageHow busyness and productivity culture can numb us to collective sufferingParkour: a physical, artistic, and spiritually metaphorical discipline Suffering as a path to transformation and a deeper connection with GodDrawing connections across many different wisdom traditionsPositive attachment versus attachment that traps usThose who inspire the trust of our own pure mindsTibetan Buddhist traditions and the value of learning from multiple teachersRaghu’s lineage of Bhakti yoga, the yoga of devotionThe Tibetan translation…

Continuing their discussion on Tibetan Buddhism and Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche's lineage, David Silver and Raghu Markus chat about carrying forward the wisdom of great masters.Check out part 1 of this conversation on Ep. 627 of the Mindrolling Podcast and grab a copy of Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche’s memoirs, Blazing Splendor, for a deeper look into his magnificent life. In this episode, Raghu and David chat about:Being guided toward unconditional love, selflessness, and devotion to the Divine MotherThe role of lineage holders and treasure revealers in Tibetan BuddhismTulku Urgyen’s unique style of teachingDeep humility as an essential spiritual practiceHow ‘being here now’ becomes a gateway to embodied wisdomReleasing skepticism and misunderstanding around the concept of a guruHonoring great spiritual masters and transmitting their wisdom across generationsThe powerful film, Tibet: Cry of the Snow LionReaching a state of deathlessness and timeless awarenessStarting our day with compassion for ourselves and others“As…

Tracing her path from sharp-minded scholar to seasoned devotee, Mirabai Bush shares intimate stories of her personal evolution and enduring devotion to Maharaj-ji.Check out Mirabai's latest book, Almost Home: Dharma, Social Change, and the Power of LoveIn this episode, Raghu and Mirabai chat about:Mirabai’s leap of faith: leaving her PhD program, going to India, and becoming a devotee of Maharaj-jiThe mystery of timing and how a single moment can quietly change the course of a lifeA silent meditation retreat that unexpectedly prepared Mirabai to meet Maharaj-jiHow one moment with Maharaj-ji expanded Mirabai’s sense of being alive and transformed her inner worldSurrendering control: how Maharaj-ji taught Ram Dass to release the need to manage realityThe sacred symbolism and devotional practice of touching a guru’s feetThe miracle of childbirth and Mirabai’s profound experiences with home birthCheck out Mirabai’s archived podcast series on the Be Here Now Network.About Mirabai Bush:In addition to being one of…

Raghu Markus is joined by Michael Leach, the first-ever Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer of the White House, for a conversation on how to have faith over fear in the face of uncertainty.

In a world shaped by collective crisis, Raghu Markus and Dr. Thomas Hübl come together to explore inner connection and healing trauma.Interested in learning more about trauma? Grab a copy of Releasing Our Burdens, Thomas’s co-authored book with systemic family therapist Dr. Richard Schwartz, HEREThis time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Thomas discuss:Thomas’s early call to meditation, spirituality, and a life of serviceLiving within a global ecosystem shaped by overlapping crisis dynamicsReturning to ourselves when we are overwhelmed by fear and painUnderstanding how trauma shuts down parts of the self as a survival responseExamining the lasting effects of trauma on both the mind and bodyThe genetic transmission of trauma across generationsThe role of restorative practices in healing trauma and reversing symptomsDigesting trauma instead of becoming stuck in survival patternsCultivating compassion, patience, and trust in the healing processThe power of presence as a foundation for trauma recoveryHow healing even…

Author & human rights lawyer Anu Gupta sits down with Raghu to explore meeting division with “soul force”—the compassionate, spiritual power that lives within us all.Learn more about Anu’s project, Soul Force for the 21st CenturyThis time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Anu have an in-depth conversation on:The precipice of our karma and how past negative actions are coming to a head globallyAnu’s recent work in South Africa with racial healing and dissolving bordersHow Artificial Intelligence lacks ethics and moral virtuesResisting commodification and profit-driven systems through awareness and conscious choiceHow modern society has dulled our innate human capacity to careReturning to our shared primary identity as human beings rather than focusing on what makes us differentBuddhist teachings on interconnectedness and the illusion of separateness Meditation as an antidote for the negative habits that we have stored within ourselvesNavigating Kali Yuga with Bhakti yoga and merging with the divine Finding the…

Reflecting on Ram Dass’s core teachings, Hanuman Dass and Raghu Markus discuss the immense power of love, service, and compassion.Check out There is No Other for more of Ram Dass’s teachings on the path to harmony. Also, stay tuned for the release of Hanuman Dass’s forthcoming book Be Yourself, formed out of his conversations with Ram Dass.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu and Hanuman Dass have a conversation on:Hanuman Dass’s experience growing up in a deeply connected, matriarchal family Living spirituality in everyday life, household puja, and devotional practicesHow karma dictates our lives and puts us right where we are supposed to beHanuman Dass’s relationship with Ram Dass and becoming inspired to serve through food donationThe Upanishads, self-inquiry, and Ram Dass’s perpetual devotion to Maharaj-jiCompassion as the direct road to enlightenmentEmpowering those we help rather than impoverishing them or pitying themReflecting on the dharma of humanity and our shared responsibility to one anotherYou can…

This week, we pause to remember the life, presence, and artistry of a friend of the show who will be deeply missed.Recorded in 2021, this conversation features Grammy-winning artist John Forté in his first appearance on the podcast. John and Raghu talk about the spirit of music, the highs and lows of success, and John’s experience headlining the Ram Dass Soul Land Music Series.John Forté (January 30, 1975 – January 12, 2026) is survived by his wife and two children. If you’d like to offer support, a donation link is available here: Honoring John Forte by Supporting His FamilyThis special episode features an inspired conversation on:Community as the spirit of music: John Forté’s Brooklyn upbringing in the economic downturns of the 70s and 80sThe emotional, mental, and physical hardships of struggling to get by in an underserved communityPerseverance through love: John’s inspiration for his musical careerJohn’s highest highs, lowest lows, & what it is like to start over John’s friendship with the iconic Ms.…

Author and nonviolence practitioner Kazu Haga explores why fierce vulnerability is a vital practice for inner and outer transformation.Read an excerpt of Kazu’s book, Fierce Vulnerability, and purchase your own copy HERE.This time on Mindrolling, Raghu and Kazu Haga chat about:Kazu’s difficult upbringing and how meeting Japanese Buddhist monastics transformed his lifeCombining social action and spirituality The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and addressing both inner violence of the spirit and outer systemic violenceHow an “us vs. them” worldview fuels division, suffering, and ecological destructionHealing childhood trauma and collective trauma by integrating the fractured parts of ourselvesHow getting vulnerable opens up our capacity to heal The Seven Fires Prophecies from the Anishinaabe peopleRebuilding the world through spiritual practice rather than material accumulationRemembering that personal healing is inseparable from collective healing in an interdependent worldListening deeply and being…

Longtime friends David Silver and Raghu Markus discuss Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche and the legacy of Dzogchen maintained by his four sons.Grab a copy of Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche’s memoirs, Blazing Splendor, for a deeper look into his magnificent life. This time on Mindrolling, Raghu and David have a discussion about:The life and teachings of Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, one of the greatest Dzogchen meditation masters of the 20th centuryTulku Urgyen Rinpoche’s sons and how they continue to spread Dzogchen wisdom to the WestCore principles of Dzogchen philosophy, including the nature of mind and nondual awarenessUnderstanding cognitive emptiness and the illusion of a solid identityWhy contemplating death and impermanence can be a path to liberationWorking consciously with loss and mortality before the end of lifeNot falling into the trap of believing this life is permanentViewing dreams and meditation as parallel practices for awakeningThe patience and discipline required to form new spiritual habitsLiving fully while…

In this music-filled re-release, Raghu Markus is joined by spiritual musician Jai Uttal to chat about opening our hearts through the magnitude of melodies.Get your copy of All In This Together, the latest book from Jack Kornfield! Let this new book be your guide, as Jack reveals how to navigate our human experience with wisdom and care. Inside you’ll find a beautiful collection of stories, inspiration for conflict resolution, and powerful teachings on healing, justice, and human kindness—anchored in the teachings of the Buddha and poetry from luminary voices like Mary Oliver. Click here to learn more!In this episode, Raghu and Jai Uttal discuss:The formation of melodic structures and how music is as boundless as an oceanLetting go of the idea that we must master an instrument in order to create musicGetting into the flow of devotional music and honoring God through our presence rather than perfectionThe friendship between Jai Uttal and Ram Dass and Jai’s journey to IndiaThe Baul’s of Bengal and mystical,…

Anne Lamott, Raghu Markus, and RamDev reveal that letting go of how life should be opens the door to compassion, healing, and contentment with reality.This Dharma Session was recorded at the December 2025 Ram Dass Open Your Heart in Paradise Retreat. Learn about upcoming community events HERE.This week on Mindrolling, Raghu, Anne, and RamDev hold a talk on:Standing in presence with change and impermanenceRam Dass’ eye-opening story of a farmer and his son How investing in that which changes leads to sufferingCollective healing through all the grief in the world The negative emotions that arise when we resist changeCreating an intimate, compassionate relationship with the sense of lossAnne’s experiences of radicalizing change in her own lifeWise Hope: taking leaps of faith and hoping that things will work out as they shouldAbout Anne Lamott:Anne Lamott is the New York Times best-selling author of many books, including collections of essays, novels, and long-form non-fiction, including the classic writing…

Looking through a Jungian lens, Psychologist Dr. John Price and Raghu Markus have a discussion on the mechanics of awakening.

Discussing the loving-kindness lessons in Kind Karl, Sharon’s first children’s book, Raghu, Duncan, and Sharon chat about raising mindful kids who can become mindful adults. Kind Karl will be released on 12/9! Co-authored by Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a new children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness. To learn more about Sharon’s forthcoming children’s book, Kind Karl, and pre-order a copy with a special pre-order gift, you can visit Sharon’s website, right here. This time on Mindrolling, Duncan, Sharon, and Raghu connect over:Sharon’s upcoming children’s book on mindfulness and loving-kindness, Kind KarlUnderstanding how habits like greed and fear begin in early childhoodHow issues like greed have roots in early childhoodLearning from Karl the Crocodile: navigating big feelings, mistakes, and emotional complexityKarl the Crocodile as an inspiration for parents dealing with guilt and stressMaking mindfulness accessible and engaging for children of…

Celebrating the release of There Is No Other, a new book of teachings from Ram Dass’ lectures, Parvati Markus and Raghu Markus listen to and reflect on some of the material used in its creation.This special episode of Mindrolling celebrates the new book, There Is No Other, a collection of teachings taken from Ram Dass’ lectures. In these times, Ram Dass’ teachings on wholeness and unity are more needed than ever.We begin with a clip of Ram Dass exploring the mindset of “us versus them.” Who exactly is us? Who is them? Raghu and Parvati reflect on how this clip is central to the theme of There Is No Other.The next clip features Ram Dass talking about the balance of heart and mind. Sharing a powerful real-life example, he explores how we cut ourselves off when we veil our hearts. Raghu and Parvati share how the book is about walking a path to harmony and wholeness.The third clip finds Ram Dass examining Ramana Maharshi’s concept of “God, Guru, Self,” and how we can begin to appreciate that the Spirit is…

Raghu Markus and Psychoanalyst Dr. Jeffrey Rubin unpack how mindfulness, empathy, and self-understanding connect the worlds of Buddhism and Western therapy.In this Mindrolling episode, Raghu and Dr. Rubin discuss:Jeffrey’s traditional upbringing and the unexpected spiritual experience he had during a basketball gameKey parallels between Western psychotherapy and Buddhist wisdomHow “hovering attention” and mindfulness support both therapists and clientsIdentifying pure presence in numerous activities, from chanting to sports and beyond The marriage of Buddha and Freud: moment-to-moment non-judgmental, non-interfering presence Why some Buddhist practitioners can be “one with experience” but struggle to articulate what that truly meansViewing our symptoms as beautiful gateways to transformation rather than obstaclesPutting practice into everyday life and helping people truly live differentlyEmpathetically understanding those we disagree with Becoming open to feedback and growth instead of shutting down new…

This episode of Mindrolling is a collection of some of the most potent teachings from Raghu’s conversations with experts and researchers in the field of psychedelics.In this Mindrolling Anthology:Clip 1 (Ep. 348) – We begin with a clip from one of Raghu’s conversations with Rick Doblin, who is a leader of the current psychedelic renaissance. They discuss grief, PTSD, and the role of psychedelics in trauma processing.Clip 2 (Ep. 497) – Next up is a snippet from Raghu’s talk with Dr. Sylvestre Quevedo, a psychedelic researcher who has practiced medicine for over 40 years. They explore how ketamine fits into the picture of psychedelics and share stories of their own experiences.Clip 3 (Ep. 505) – We move on to a discussion with Paul Austin, an entrepreneur, author, and coach. He and Raghu talk about how psychedelics can help us remember who we truly are and the potential they hold for healing relationships.Clip 4 (Ep. 563) – Next, we have neuropharmacologist Stephanie Karzon Abrams. She and Raghu discuss…

Raghu sits down with clinical psychologist and meditation teacher Dr. Tucker Peck to explore the meeting point of dharma and psychotherapy.If you are in the U.S., you can directly purchase a paperback copy of Sanity & Sainthood HERE. Otherwise, head over to Amazon for both paperback and ebook formats. In this episode of Mindrolling, Raghu and Tucker discuss:Tucker’s first mind-altering meditative experience on the beachIncluding the dharma in psychotherapy and Tucker’s work in meditation as a therapeutic modalityHow Tucker developed a relationship with Sharon Salzberg and learned mindfulness techniques from herThe eccentric story of Grandma Allegra: enlightenment, humor, and being in love with the world The question of psychedelics—are they ‘necessary’ for elevating consciousness?Working with the mind and the difference between content and process The pros and cons of the ego and why we need to first know ourselves before dissolving the selfThe Elephant Path, a nine-step practice for building concentration,…