Monastereo is a podcast by Monika and Sarah. It is a space for genuine conversations about inner life, reflection, and practice as they unfold in everyday reality. Not as something separate from life, but as something that lives within work, relationships, uncertainty, joy, and responsibility. Some practices emerge from long contemplative traditions, others from lived experience, honest questioning, or simply paying attention. Monastereo is interested in what happens when we stay close to experience rather than ideals, and when reflection is allowed to be simple, human, and imperfect. The podcast will include both shared conversations and solo reflections, depending on the topic and moment. Some episodes unfold as dialogue, others as quieter, personal explorations. Episode 1: Coming from Gratitude A solo reflection by Sarah Before dialogue begins, the episode lays a foundation for what Monastereo is about: bringing contemplative practice out of the monastery and into everyday life. Drawing from personal experience with the Japanese reflection method Naikan, Sarah explores gratitude not as a feeling to cultivate or a moral attitude to adopt, but as a shift in perspective. A way of seeing what has already been received, often quietly and without recognition, and how this can change the way we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. The episode touches on gratitude as a stabilizing force in difficult times, on the difference between appreciation and denial, and on how honest reflection can soften the sense of lack that so often shapes modern life. Rather than offering answers or instructions, this episode invites listening, reflection, and a widening of view. Upcoming episodes will include shared conversations with Monika 💛, alongside further solo reflections from both of us, as well as with guests. Get full access to Insights Journey at insightsjourney.substack.com/subscribe
