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The Imperfect Buddha Podcast

The Imperfect Buddha Podcast
Equanimity
Buddhism
Mindfulness
Peter Sloterdijk
Psychotherapy
Philosophy
You Must Change Your Life
Spheres Trilogy
Philosophy As Practice
Cynicism
Military Veterans
PTSD
Critical Theory
Modernity
Communication
Friedrich Nietzsche
Longchenpa
Playfulness
Identity
Engaged Buddhism

The Imperfect Buddha podcast has been addressing anti-intellectualism and ideological capture in western Buddhism and spirituality more broadly since its inception. It provides a space for dynamic conversations designed to bring out what is so often hidden and so often despised by critics and intellectuals engaging with contemporary forms of practice. Matthew O’Connell hosts the Imperfect Buddha p... more

PublishesMonthlyEpisodes125Founded3 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Religion & SpiritualityBuddhism

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Artwork for The Imperfect Buddha Podcast

Latest Episodes

Michael Uebel is a psychotherapist and researcher currently based in Austin, Texas. He is recognized as a pioneer in applying psychological insights to the historical intersections of social, personal, and imaginative phenomena. He is a Research Affi... more

In Against Identity, philosopher Alexander Douglas seeks an alternative wisdom. Searching the work of three thinkers – ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi, Dutch Enlightenment thinker Benedict de Spinoza, and 20th Century French theorist René Girard... more

Tom joins us to discuss his book Speaking Philosophically: Communication at the Limits of Discursive Reason (Bloomsbury, 2023). Western philosophy has often claimed for itself not just a distinct sphere of knowledge, but a distinct form of communicat... more

You’re human, but are you also a Buddha? If so, which one comes first? What does it mean to be human? What is a Buddha exactly? Is our humanity lost or superseded if we become a Buddha? Such questions might interest our more philosophical listeners. more

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Recent Guests

Dr. Michael Uebel
Psychotherapist and researcher, recognized for applying psychological insights to social and imaginative phenomena.
University of Texas at Austin
Episode: Dr. Michael Uebel on Reimaging Equanimity
Alexander Douglas
Philosopher and author of the book "Against Identity"
University of St Andrews
Episode: Alexander Douglas, "Against Identity: The Wisdom of Escaping the Self" (Random House, 2025)
Thomas Sutherland
Philosopher and author, discussing his book on communication in philosophy.
Episode: Speaking Philosophically: Communication at the Limits of Discursive Reason
Dr. Thomas Sutherland
Lecturer in digital media at the University of Southampton and researcher into digital culture, the humanities, and the history of philosophy.
University of Southampton
Episode: Peter Sloterdijk Knows it All
Shodhin Geiman
Zen Abbot and author
Chicago Zen Center
Episode: 119 Alone in a World of Wounds with Zen Abbot Shodhin Geiman

Host

Matthew O'Connell
Host of a podcast that seeks to challenge conventional interpretations of Buddhism and encourage critical inquiry into spirituality.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 34 ratings
  • Interesting but patriarchal.

    It’s mainly men talking and talking about their views on Buddhism. In one episode they dismiss a woman writer who says Buddhism has always been dominated by men. They never explain why they are so dismissive of her. Then there is the comment about “ housekeeping” , that the host doesn’t even know what housekeeping is. Maybe because someone else ( a woman) does it all for him.

    The unconscious patriarchal assumptions bordering on false superiority rankles me.

    Apple Podcasts
    4
    wyode
    United States3 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Some audience members express concerns about the representation of gender in conversations, particularly regarding the dominance of male perspectives.
Critiques of anti-intellectualism and ideological capture resonate with listeners, reflecting a desire for deeper, more meaningful discussions about spirituality.

Chart Rankings

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Dr. Michael Uebel on Reimaging Equanimity
Q: Why is equanimity significant within Buddhism?
It is regarded as a key element in the processes of awakening, offering broad awareness, allowing individuals to respond flexibly to life.
Dr. Michael Uebel on Reimaging Equanimity
Q: What does equanimity mean to you, and how does it differentiate from stillness?
Equanimity is a kind of spacious awareness, not about achieving stillness but about engaging dynamically with the emotional landscape.
Alexander Douglas, "Against Identity: The Wisdom of Escaping the Self" (Random House, 2025)
Q: Does agency have a role within the discourse of your book?
Agency can be understood as arising from identity, influenced by external models, and embracing fluidity rather than rigidity is essential to living authentically.
Alexander Douglas, "Against Identity: The Wisdom of Escaping the Self" (Random House, 2025)
Q: How practical are these philosophical ideals about identity in the real world?
Douglas acknowledges the need for a balance between forming identities for personal stability while also developing the ability to relax attachment to those identities.
Alexander Douglas, "Against Identity: The Wisdom of Escaping the Self" (Random House, 2025)
Q: What led you to cultivate a stance against identity?
Douglas reflects on his upbringing in a multi-ethnic household and the challenges posed by societal pressures for self-definition, as well as profound personal experiences like his father's Alzheimer's.

Audience Metrics

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Listeners per Episode
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Imperfect Buddha Podcast

What is The Imperfect Buddha Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast focuses on the contemporary discourse surrounding Buddhism and spirituality, critically addressing themes of anti-intellectualism and ideological capture. It enables in-depth discussions that challenge commonplace narratives in Western interpretations of Buddhism, showcasing a variety of perspectives on practice and engaging with the complexities of modern spiritual life. Noteworthy episodes often highlight the intersections of psychological concepts, personal experiences, and philosophical inquiry, appealing to those who appreciate thoughtful examination of spirituality beyond dogmatic frameworks.

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Which podcasts are similar to The Imperfect Buddha Podcast?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Imperfect Buddha Podcast:

1. Tricycle Talks
2. The Way Out Is In
3. Heart Wisdom with Jack Kornfield
4. Secular Buddhism
5. This Jungian Life Podcast

How many episodes of The Imperfect Buddha Podcast are there?

The Imperfect Buddha Podcast launched 3 years ago and published 125 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on The Imperfect Buddha Podcast?

Recent guests on The Imperfect Buddha Podcast include:

1. Dr. Michael Uebel
2. Alexander Douglas
3. Thomas Sutherland
4. Dr. Thomas Sutherland
5. Shodhin Geiman

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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