Wisdom and Practice

Aspen Institute
  • 5.0 (27)
  • PHILOSOPHY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Wisdom and Practice

No one has all of the answers—but isn’t our quest for meaning what makes us human? Wisdom & Practice opens the door to insights from traditions across the philosophical and spiritual spectrum. Every two weeks, author, educator, and host Simran Jeet Singh sits down with thought-leaders, creatives, and philosophers to uncover what we can learn through exploring life's greatest questions. Starting with: How can we all cultivate more meaning, purpose and growth in our own everyday lives? Through curious and open-minded conversations, each episode illuminates different means of practice guests have taken to discover new awareness of themselves. And in doing so, Wisdom & Practice invites you to reflect and find deeper understanding for yourself, too.

  1. 5D AGO

    The Spiritual Wisdom of Slowing Down with Pico Iyer

    What can silence teach us about presence, purpose, and connection? How might traveling inward be as transformative as journeying across the globe? This week, Simran journeys into stillness and simplicity with celebrated writer Pico Iyer. Together, they explore the quiet truths discovered through travel, solitude, and spiritual seeking. Pico reflects on his life between worlds—from the stillness of a Japanese suburb to the vibrant chaos of New York, and the contemplative silence of monasteries. He shares how his multicultural upbringing and diverse spiritual influences have shaped his understanding of identity, belonging, and meaning. In a world brimming with noise and distraction, Pico advocates for a return to presence: putting down the phone, embracing minimalist living, and listening deeply—to ourselves, to others, and to the moment. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, to cultivate gratitude, and to rediscover the richness of a life not measured by possessions, but by presence. Resources: Buy Aflame by Pico Iyer here. Pico Iyer Journeys website. Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    30 min

  2. MAR 27

    The Revolutionary Act of Kindness with Naomi Shihab Nye

    How do words shape the way we understand ourselves and each other? Can poetry and kindness be powerful tools for healing and connection in a fragmented world? This week, Simran explores the profound impact of poetry and kindness with acclaimed poet Naomi Shihab Nye. Together, they unpack her evolving understanding of identity—not as a rigid box, but as something fluid and ever-changing.  Naomi shares how poetry became her lifelong practice of reflection and connection, offering solace in times of uncertainty and a bridge between people and cultures. They address the importance of kindness, the necessity of creative expression, and the way words can help us navigate grief, division, and transformation.  This conversation is a reminder that poetry—and kindness—are revolutionary acts that bring us closer to one another in a fractured world. Resources: Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Kindness by Naomi Shihab-Nye Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    26 min

  3. MAR 13

    Ancient Rituals, Modern Impact with Rabbi Sharon Brous

    We often think that purpose comes from big moments or grand gestures. But what if it’s the small, quiet connections that truly shape the way we see the world? In this week’s episode, Simran speaks with Rabbi Sharon Brous, a spiritual leader whose journey to faith is deeply intertwined with her passion for social justice. Rabbi Brous shares how her path shifted from aspiring civil rights attorney to becoming a rabbi, and how a spiritual awakening in college led her to discover the powerful intersection of faith and justice. She takes us through ancient rituals—like a practice at the Temple Mount designed to connect with the broken-hearted—and how these traditions can still help us build empathy and community today. Rabbi Brous also reflects on the importance of multi-faith collaboration and how showing compassion and curiosity toward others can transform our relationships. This conversation is a powerful reminder that purpose isn’t always about big moments. Often, it’s found in the quiet acts of connection and empathy that bring us closer to each other and to something greater. Resources: IKAR Website Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    27 min

  4. FEB 27

    Holding Onto Hope with Nicholas Kristof

    It can be easy to assume that purpose comes from grand gestures or major life events. But what about the moments of quiet connection that shape how we see the world? In this week’s episode, Simran speaks with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof. From reflecting on remarkable experiences in the midst of global conflicts, to a childhood memory of spiritual connection in the wilderness, we explore the life-changing encounters that fuel his reporting and writing. Nicholas takes us back to the stories that have stayed with him—the real people behind the headlines, the resilience he’s witnessed in the face of war, and the emotional toll of bearing witness to tragedy. He also reflects on the delicate balance between taking risks and protecting one's own well-being, all while holding onto hope. This conversation is a reminder that meaning is often found in the smallest moments, and that storytelling—both our own and others’—can be a powerful force for change. Resources: Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    31 min

  5. FEB 13

    Finding Meaning in the Mess with Kelly Corrigan

    It can feel natural to seek wisdom in the big moments of life. But what about looking for wisdom in the smaller moments, the everyday encounters that shape us? In this week’s episode, Simran speaks with bestselling memoirist, Kelly Corrigan. She opens up about the transformative experiences that shaped her life, from a spiritual experience in her youth to the quiet interactions that often hold the deepest meaning.  Kelly then takes us back to her childhood memories, reflecting on the power of connection and how the simple act of being present has made all the difference. Then, through the sudden loss of her mother, we learn how she shaped her views on humility, self-awareness, and the need to unplug from the noise of technology to truly see the world around us.  This conversation is a warm invitation to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with the people and moments that matter most. Resources: Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    30 min

  6. JAN 30

    Meaning, Addiction, and Spirituality with Nadia Bolz-Weber

    Growing up in a strict religious environment can leave deep imprints on us. Addiction can too. So what happens when we dare to step beyond these and discover spirituality on our own terms?  In this week’s episode, Simran Jeet Singh sits down with Nadia Bolz-Weber, ordained Lutheran pastor, best-selling author, and founder of the House for All Sinners and Saints, to explore the journey of transformation and radical honesty. Together, Simran and Nadia reflect on the path from rigid belief systems to a faith that is deeply personal and inclusive. Nadia shares her story of breaking free from conformity, finding healing through Alcoholics Anonymous, and building a spiritual community that welcomes the fullness of human messiness. They dive into the psychology of belonging, the courage it takes to be truthful with ourselves, and the profound impact of creating spaces where everyone feels seen. It’s a conversation that will resonate with anyone seeking to reconcile their past, rediscover their identity, or build deeper, more authentic connections.  Resources: Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    26 min

  7. JAN 16

    Choosing Love with Krista Tippett

    Leaning into love and compassion doesn’t always feel natural, especially when the people we’re dealing with are fueled by hate. But what happens when we resist our urges to hate, and instead, see humanity in one another? And how might we begin to do that? In this week’s episode, Krista Tippett, Peabody award-winning journalist and the host of the podcast On Being, explores how we can practice love in times of divisions and hatred.  Together, Simran and Krista speak openly with one another about the challenges that come with sustaining relationships, as well as the transformative impact of fostering deeper connections—offering reflections on social advocacy, friendships, and living your way into becoming love.  Resources: Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org. Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    27 min

  8. JAN 2

    BONUS: "A Guiding Light" from Know What You See

    Today, we have a special episode for you! If you’ve been enjoying this show, Wisdom and Practice, here's another podcast we think you’ll like. On “Know What You See”, host Brian Lowery delves into the ways our fundamental need to connect with others profoundly shapes our experience of life. Brian is a professor of social psychology at Stanford University, and on his podcast, he explores the surprising, perplexing and sometimes transcendent lives we create together.  In this conversation, Brian is joined by Simran to explore the intersection of faith, purpose, and daily life. Simran shares how his Sikh faith guides his journey toward self-improvement, happiness, and meaningful community connections. Together, he and Brian discuss the role of religion as a practice—not just a belief system—and its potential to transform individuals and societies. Resources: For more on Know What You See, visit knowwhatyousee.com  Check out Simran’s work on his website at simranjeetsingh.org Wisdom & Practice is produced in partnership with PRX and the Aspen Institute, with support from the John Templeton Foundation.  Music by Raj Kanwal Singh. This episode was produced by associate producer, Serena Chow, producer, Rithu Jagannath and senior producer, Morgan Flannery. Our project manager is Edwin Ochoa, our show is mixed by Tommy Bazarian and the executive producer of PRX Productions is Jocelyn Gonzales.

    29 min
See All (20)

    5
    out of 5
    27 Ratings

    About

    No one has all of the answers—but isn’t our quest for meaning what makes us human? Wisdom & Practice opens the door to insights from traditions across the philosophical and spiritual spectrum. Every two weeks, author, educator, and host Simran Jeet Singh sits down with thought-leaders, creatives, and philosophers to uncover what we can learn through exploring life's greatest questions. Starting with: How can we all cultivate more meaning, purpose and growth in our own everyday lives? Through curious and open-minded conversations, each episode illuminates different means of practice guests have taken to discover new awareness of themselves. And in doing so, Wisdom & Practice invites you to reflect and find deeper understanding for yourself, too.

    Information

    • Creator
      Aspen Institute
    • Years Active
      2024 - 2025
    • Episodes
      20
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © 2024 Aspen Institute
    • Show Website
      Wisdom and Practice

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