Epstein does an awesome job of linking the intent of pyschology/psychotherapy with the intent of buddhist teachings. He is able to explain the "shame" that is so pervasive in the west, which befuddled the Dalai Lama and other eastern teachers. This is a biggie for the transmission of eastern thought into a new culture. He's real, admitting normal human feelings like numb, alone, missing something, anxious, and shows his progression on how they became workable for him.

Besides, the grinding teeth and teeth disintegrating dreams - it's worth it just for that! :)

Wonderful perspective on Buddhism and Psychiatry

with comments about interaction with Ram Dass, Jack Kornfield and Joseph Goldstein. A lot of wisdom on how everything interacts

Really great, surprising.

I didn't go into this short program expecting anything too earth shattering, having formally studied Buddhism and psychology somewhat.

Mark's talk reminded me of many things I'd forgotten about, and brought new light to things I thought I'd understood.

In the days since listening, I have been enjoying enduring "Bare Attention" for most of the time.

Previously I experienced this as something that is fickle and transient, disappearing as soon as I go about daily activities. But actually it's pretty simple to maintain if you have the courage and honesty to really look at what's going on at the moment (warts and all).

If you're interested in Buddhism and in psychoanalytic ideas, this is for you! As a long-time fan of Epstein's "Thoughts without a Thinker", this series of talks was fascinating and thought-provoking, inviting deep reflection. Each of the four talks takes the listener to new places in the synthesis of ideas from two great traditions. I've listened to it repeatedly and each time found something new.

Excellent in every way.

Enjoyable, enlightening, and engaging.

Mark Epstein peppers his talk with personal experiences, which adds a dimension of humanity not always found in teachings of this depth.