Top Ten Episodes of 2023
Looking to catch up on what you missed from our platform in 2023? If so, here is a guide for our most listened-to episodes of the year. Enjoy!
10. Kory Goldberg is Along The Path: Kory’s spiritual journey led him to India, where he explored various traditions, co-authoring a book on Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and leading pilgrimages in both India and Myanmar.
9. Steve Smith, Part 1: Steve shares his initial attraction to Mahasi Sayadaw's teachings, which moved him to ordain, first with Taungpulu Sayadaw for his lower ordination, and then Mahasi for his full ordination. His time in Myanmar brought profound experiences and connections, including a personal and spiritual friendship with Aung San Suu Kyi.
8. Meditation On Revolution: Valerie, born in Myanmar to a Chinese Muslim family, was drawn to Buddhism and meditation. She embarked on a spiritual journey that led her to Thae Ingu meditation, transforming her perspective on life, beauty, and worldly concerns… but the military coup in Myanmar has temporarily shifted her focus from meditation to actively supporting the democracy movement in her homeland.
7: A Generational Change: Bobo became an activist after witnessing soldiers brutally beating Buddhist monks in 2007. He joined Generation Wave, an underground collective advocating for democracy, and continues to work for the revolution despite personal sacrifices.
6: Scot Marciel: The former US Ambassador to Myanmar discusses his book, Imperfect Partners, and reflects on his diplomatic career. He emphasizes the complexities of Myanmar's challenges, including the Rohingya crisis and the military's power, as well as the importance of international support for the country's struggle to regain democracy.
5: The Spring Revolution Will Win: Matthew Arnold expresses high optimism that Myanmar's Spring Revolution will ultimately succeed due to the unwavering resistance, Operation 1027, and the junta's weakening position.
4: Talkin’ Bout A Revolution: Jon reflects on his early optimism soon after the coup, and the challenges they now face in the fight against the brutal military regime. He stresses the need for unity and truth in the resistance movement in Myanmar.
3. Sunda Khin, Part 1: The daughter of Burma’s first Supreme Court Justice, U Chan Htoon, discusses the early encounters and friendship between S.N. Goenka and her father, which ultimately led to Goenka's introduction to Vipassana meditation.
2. You Down With NUG? Philipp Annawitt argues that the NUG in Myanmar meets the functional criteria for a legitimate government, despite limited international recognition, and highlights the importance of international support and assistance for its effectiveness and sustainability.
1. The Burma Act: Michael Haack discusses the Burma Act and its journey through the U.S. legislative process. He highlights its bipartisan support and its potential impact on Myanmar's democracy movement. He also emphasizes the need for a unified narrative about Myanmar in the U.S. and the importance of building relationships with influential individuals and groups to drive policy change.