The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life

Awaken

Embark on a journey of self-discovery, health, and wellbeing with The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life podcast by Awaken. Dive deep into the transformative power of mindfulness as we uncover how our guests integrate it into their personal and professional lives, igniting ripples of positive change that resonate far beyond the present moment. Join us as we explore the profound impact of mindfulness practices on our mental health while navigating life’s challenges and fostering inner and outer peace.

  1. 11h ago

    Episode 77: Bhante Pema

    In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, host Stephanie Romero speaks with Bhante Pema, resident monk at the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center. Bhante Pema reflects on his early ordination in Sri Lanka at age 10, inspired by his granduncle, and his journey to leading monastic and community spaces in the U.S. The conversation addresses the distinct ways Western and Eastern audiences approach practice, emphasizing that meditation cannot stand in isolation without ethical living and generosity. Bhante Pema also shares insights on academic versus spiritual instruction, virtual youth programs, daily monastic routines, and the core mechanics of Theravada Vipassana meditation. Key Themes Monastic Journey: Ordained as a novice monk in November 1986 in Sri Lanka, pursuing higher education in Thailand, Singapore, and the U.S. before coming to serve the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center in 2008. Ethics as a Foundation for Meditation: Why moral precepts (such as the five lay precepts) are not rigid rules, but preventive practices that reduce mental agitation and regret to prepare the mind for deep meditation. Cultural Differences in Practice: Contrasting the Sri Lankan immigrant community's focus on generosity (Dana) and ethics with Western practitioners' eagerness to jump directly into meditation. Mindfulness for Youth: Implementing Zoom-based yoga, movement, loving-kindness (Metta), and gratitude meditation to support children's emotional wellbeing. Understanding Vipassana: Moving beyond pure calming practices (Samatha) to observe the impermanent, constantly arising, and passing nature of experience. Resources Mentioned Pittsburgh Buddhist Center & Cleveland Satellite Center: Community centers offering retreats, classes, and cultural events. Bhavana Society: Forest monastery in West Virginia, co-founded by Bhante Gunaratana and Bhante Rahula. Book: Mindfulness in Plain English by Bhante Gunaratana Book: 8 Mindful Steps to Happiness by Bhante Gunaratana. Book: Being Nobody, Going Nowhere by Ayya Khema. Book: In Buddha's Words: An Anthology of the Pali Canon by Bhikkhu Bodhi. Book: Why Buddhism is True by Robert Wright.   Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  2. Sep 1

    Episode 76: Dr. Jim Magaw

    In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, host Stephanie Romero sits down with Reverend Jim Magaw, minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (Sunny Hill). Reverend Jim reflects on his personal journey with spiritual exploration and 28 years of addiction recovery, sharing how contemplative tools offer a container to observe life's challenges rather than escape them. The conversation explores practical strategies for preventing burnout in helping professions, the integration of micro-meditations into busy schedules, and how grounded spiritual practice fuels sustainable social justice work. Stephanie and Jim also discuss leading through theological pluralism, fostering curiosity across differing perspectives, and building meaningful community connections right in our own backyards. Key Themes Spirituality in Recovery: How contemplative practices address spiritual emptiness and provide a container for holding difficult urges and emotions. Micro-Practices for Self-Care: Utilizing brief, intentional pauses throughout the day—such as two-minute breathing breaks and music—to prevent burnout in demanding leadership roles. Sustainable Social Activism: Finding a middle path between apathy and constant anger by grounding justice work in community partnerships and actionable steps. Theological Pluralism & Curiosity: Cultivating spaces that welcome diverse belief systems, encouraging deep listening and genuine curiosity over division. Relational Community Building: The impact of local engagement, interfaith relationships, and small acts of neighborly kindness. Resources: Poetry by:  Wendell Berry - find his books of poems here and find out more here Mary Oliver Danna Faulds (her website appears to be under construction) but here is a collection of her books.    Book: The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel   Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  3. Aug 18

    Episode 75: Felicia Savage Friedman

    In this inspiring episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with master educator and 36-year Raja Yoga practitioner Felicia Savage Friedman to explore the powerful intersection of embodied mindfulness and anti-racism activism. Together, they discuss breaking free from perfectionism, recognizing rest and joy as innate birthrights rather than rewards, and using the eight-limbed path of yoga to heal internalized oppression. Tune in to learn how grounding your contemplative practice in unconditional love creates a sustainable foundation for both personal resilience and collective liberation. Resources: Books & Foundational Texts The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Translation and Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidananda) Context: Felicia references studying and following The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali translated by her teacher’s lineage (Swami Satchidananda) as the core text for her 8-limbed Raja Yoga practice. Where to Find It: Barnes & Noble Amazon Organizations, Programs & Centers The People’s Institute for Survival and Beyond (PISAB) Context: Felicia attended their Undoing Racism training in St. Louis in 2014, which provided her with the structural analysis and anti-racist framework that she merged with her Raja Yoga practice. Website: pisab.org National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) Context: Felicia brought in NETA to host intensive yoga teacher training certifications earlier in her career. Website: netafit.org American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) Context: Felicia worked with Amanda K. Gross conducting community listening sessions through AFSC. Website: afsc.org The Midwife Center for Birth & Women's Health (Formerly "Birthplace" – Pittsburgh, PA) Context: The birth center where Felicia delivered her daughter Maya out-of-hospital using her Raja Yoga and breathwork practices. Website: midwifecenter.org The Kingsley Association (Pittsburgh, PA) Context: The community center in Pittsburgh’s Larimer/East Liberty neighborhood where Felicia previously taught yoga classes. Website: kingsleyassociation.org Philosophies & Concepts Mentioned Raja Yoga (The 8-Limbed Path): The classical path of yoga outlined in Patanjali’s Sutras involving ethics (Yamas/Niyamas), physical postures (Asana), breath control (Pranayama), sensory withdrawal (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and self-realization (Samadhi). Hatha Yoga: A subset of the 8-limbed path focusing on physical postures (Asana) and breath control (Pranayama). Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  4. Aug 4

    Episode 73: Gary Crouth

    In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero speaks with Gary Crouth about his path to Zen meditation and his volunteer work with The Still Workers at the Allegheny County Jail. Gary discusses why the stark simplicity and discipline of Zen resonated with him, how engaged Buddhism sparked volunteer efforts in the local criminal justice system, and the real-world impact mindfulness tools have on incarcerated individuals and jail staff alike. Together, Stephanie and Gary reflect on the interconnectedness of all beings, the power of community (Sangha), and how small shifts in individual well-being ripple out to families and communities. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Books & Authors Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda Alan Watts (Writings on Taoism and Zen) Curricula & Frameworks Path of Freedom – A mindfulness-based emotional intelligence curriculum (developed by Fleet Maull / Prison Mindfulness Institute) taught in prison/jail settings. Organizations & Volunteer Programs The Still Workers – Engaged Buddhist volunteer group delivering practice in correctional facilities. Foundation of Hope – Organization managing chaplaincy, the Hope Pod, mentorship, and aftercare programming at the Allegheny County Jail. Awaken – Organization offering re-entry programming at the jail. Buddhist Peace Fellowship – Engaged Buddhism network (inspired the local group's inception). Buddhist Society of Pittsburgh – Local organization linking regional Sanghas and hosting annual Vesak ceremonies. Practice Centers & Sanghas Mentioned Zen Center of Pittsburgh (Bell Acres / Sewickley Heights) Friends Meeting House (Oakland, PA) Theravada Centers / Temples (Allison Park with Bhante Pema; Thai Buddhist community in Monroeville) Temple Llama (Greenfield) Tibetan Center / Olmo Ling (White Oak) Teachers & Key Figures Cited Kyoki Roberts & Nonan (Zen Center of Pittsburgh) Fleet Maull (Founder of Prison Mindfulness Institute / Path of Freedom) Catherine Gammon & Katherine Pepper (Co-founding/early figures in The Still Workers) Robert "Whiffer" Wilson (Still Workers volunteer working with Awaken) Buddhist Concepts Discussed Zazen (Seated Zen meditation) Metta / Loving-Kindness Meditation Dedication of Merit The Three Gems (The Buddha/Teacher, Dharma/Teachings, and Sangha/Community) Vesak (VSAC) (Annual Buddhist celebration) Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  5. Jul 28

    Episode 72: 7-11 Breathing

    In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero leads co-host Josiah Gilliam through a practical, accessible mindfulness exercise: 7-11 Breathing. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or dealing with a racing mind, this breath-focused awareness practice offers an immediate reset. By simply extending your exhalation so that it is longer than your inhalation—conceptually inhaling for a count of 7 and exhaling for 11—you can kickstart your body’s natural soothing systems and soothe your emotional state. In this episode, you’ll experience: An Agency-First Approach: Reminders that mindfulness guidelines are always invitations, empowering you to adjust your posture, pace, or focus to fit your needs. The 7-11 Breathing Mechanics: A step-by-step breakdown of how to ratio your breath (and why the exact numbers matter less than making the exhale longer than the inhale). A 4-Minute Guided Practice: A quiet, structured session to practice along in real-time. Beginner-Friendly Tips: Advice on how to start small, handle distractions gently, and build a lasting micro-practice. Whether you have two minutes or ten, tune in to learn a tool you can take anywhere to bring calm back into your workday and life.   Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  6. Jul 22

    Episode 71: Stephanie Miller

    In this episode of The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life, Dr. Stephanie Romero sits down with composer, performer, and certified music practitioner Stephanie Miller to explore the powerful relationship between music, meditation, healing, and human connection. Stephanie shares how music has served as a meditative practice throughout her life and discusses her work with vibroacoustic harp therapy, using sound and vibration to support people experiencing chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and other challenges. The conversation explores how music can create a sense of safety and calm, help us reconnect with our bodies, and offer meaningful experiences of healing through hearing, touch, vibration, and presence. The conversation also moves beyond the harp to explore the communal power of drum circles, rhythm, toning, laughter, and play. Together, Dr. Romero and Stephanie consider how wellbeing isn't always something we have to think our way toward. Sometimes, we can simply listen, feel, resonate, and allow ourselves to reconnect with ourselves and others. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Music for Healing and Transition Program (MHTP) – Stephanie's training in using live music to support healing and wellbeing in healthcare and other settings. Vibroacoustic Harp Therapy – A therapeutic practice Stephanie discusses that combines music and physical vibration to create an embodied experience. Jim Donovan – Musician and educator whose work in rhythm and drum circle facilitation was mentioned in the conversation. Arthur Hall – Referenced in connection with drum circle facilitation and community music. The Fourfold Way – A book exploring the archetypal paths of the Warrior, Healer, Visionary, and Teacher, which Stephanie discusses as an influential resource in her own journey. Music for Life Pittsburgh – A resource connected to Stephanie's music, programming, and work. Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

  7. Jul 14

    Episode 70: Dawn and Stephanie Part 2

    What does it actually take to turn a personal mindfulness practice into a community-wide movement? In Part 2 of this special conversation, the tables remain turned as Program Coordinator Dawn Lehman continues her interview with our usual host, Dr. Stephanie Romero. Stephanie opens up about the terrifying leap of faith she took when she left a stable public school teaching career to establish Awake in Pittsburgh, a secular mindfulness nonprofit.   She pulls back the curtain on the raw realities of running a nonprofit, from navigating tight budgets and capitalist pressures to overcoming systemic pushback from school districts. Finally, Stephanie explains why traditional "on-the-cushion" meditation isn't always enough, sharing how the organization has evolved to integrate the Trauma Resiliency Protocol and Integrative Community Therapy for deeper, systemic healing.   In this episode, we discuss: The Birth of Awake in Pittsburgh: Leaving public education to build a secular nonprofit from scratch. Overcoming Nonprofit Challenges: Facing school district roadblocks, funding shortages, and systemic hurdles. The Evolution of Healing: Moving past basic meditation to embrace trauma resiliency and relational community therapy. Resources Mentioned: When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön Organizations: Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills, Shambhala Center of Pittsburgh, and New Sun Rising Curricula & Workbooks: dot B (UK), CARE for Teachers (Penn State), Path of Freedom, and the Mindfulness-Based Emotional Balance Workbook Learn More at www.awakencollaborative.com Music: Weather Any Storm by Cody Francis and Forever and A Day by Kim Aspen (canva.com) Produced by Say Some Thing Studios, a creative media division of Elevate 1 Consulting. The Awaken Collaborative supports Awaken Pittsburgh! Awaken Pittsburgh, a 501c3 non-profit organization, relies on the generosity of our community to achieve our mission of fostering well-being, empathy, and compassion for all. Your support helps mindfulness practitioners reach individuals across the Greater Pittsburgh Area through evidence-based programs, activities, and events. Give Today! www.awakenpittsburgh.org/support Music: "Chill Mode" by Audiobinger from the free music archive. This work is openly licensed via CC BY 4.0.

About

Embark on a journey of self-discovery, health, and wellbeing with The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing in Work and Life podcast by Awaken. Dive deep into the transformative power of mindfulness as we uncover how our guests integrate it into their personal and professional lives, igniting ripples of positive change that resonate far beyond the present moment. Join us as we explore the profound impact of mindfulness practices on our mental health while navigating life’s challenges and fostering inner and outer peace.