20 episodes

The Game of Zen explores the often-overlooked ways in which professional, personal and spiritual growth are interrelated. We dive deep into the life teachings of the Buddha and the mindfulness practices of Zen, revealing how they can help us dramatically expand our possibilities for whole-hearted work, life and play. Play the game of life with wisdom, humor and skill for better businesses and happier lives.

The Game of Zen Scott Berman and Paul Agostinelli

    • Business
    • 4.6 • 9 Ratings

The Game of Zen explores the often-overlooked ways in which professional, personal and spiritual growth are interrelated. We dive deep into the life teachings of the Buddha and the mindfulness practices of Zen, revealing how they can help us dramatically expand our possibilities for whole-hearted work, life and play. Play the game of life with wisdom, humor and skill for better businesses and happier lives.

    E19: Navigating Attachment - Applying Buddhist Teachings to Modern Relationships

    E19: Navigating Attachment - Applying Buddhist Teachings to Modern Relationships

    On today’s episode of Game of Zen, we dive into the concept of attachment and its profound impact on our personal and professional lives. We explore how our attachments, whether towards people, success, or material possessions, can lead to suffering but also provide deep insights into our own behaviors. Paul & Scott highlight that understanding secure versus unhealthy attachment, especially in business ventures and family life, can illuminate paths to greater happiness and lessen our emotional burdens. We touched on Buddha's teachings about the roots of attachment—craving, aversion, and ignorance—and discussed practical steps to cultivate mindfulness and appreciation in every aspect of life. Don’t miss this transformative session, aimed at enriching your relationships and guiding you toward a more mindful and gratified existence. Tune in, let go, and grow with us!
    00:00 Desire for change creates adverse relationship with reality.
    05:08 Attachment to sports teams reflects emotional investment.
    07:25 Attachment to others causes suffering, avoid it.
    11:47 Self-awareness is key to healthy relationships and work.
    15:02 Embracing hunger without giving in to it.
    19:16 Balancing money and security in business.
    23:19 Overstaying at startup and in relationships impactful.
    27:18 Impermanence and attachment in life's changing stages.
    31:04 Attachment and suffering stem from resistance to impermanence.
    32:22 Meditation and mindfulness bring joy in the moment.
    37:07 Complex relationships involve love, attachment, and conflict.
    38:39 Attachment to loved ones changes with time.
    42:16 Teachers can't tell, but I can explain.
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness a...

    • 44 min
    E18: Zen Connections: The Role of Community in Spiritual and Professional Growth

    E18: Zen Connections: The Role of Community in Spiritual and Professional Growth

    Get ready for another enlightening journey on this week’s episode of The Game of Zen Podcast. Join hosts Paul & Scott as we explore the profound impact of Zen practices in both personal and corporate settings, and the importance of community in our spiritual journeys. Learn about the transformative potential of Zen retreats at Paul’s Boulder center. From daily meditation to intentional community engagement, these retreats are designed to deepen your practice and connect you to your inner Zen.
    00:00 Sangha is essential to a practice community.
    05:49 Organic journey attracts followers through insightful teachings.
    08:18 Different Buddhist schools focus on various aspects.
    13:59 Team connection brings validation and support.
    16:04 Philly sports fans unite for collective energy.
    18:35 Learning from diverse groups shapes character growth.
    23:24 Challenged to bring up vowels, led to growth.
    25:08 Appreciation for spiritual community and growth.
    30:24 Offsite meetings build strong company culture.
    32:47 Goal: Fulfillment amid life's conflicting forces.
    36:30 Recognizing special love and group uplift experience.
    39:10 Embracing new experiences and connecting with others.
    41:47 Grateful for your help and inspiration.
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Ignorance

    • 42 min
    E17 - The Third Poison - Overcoming Ignorance

    E17 - The Third Poison - Overcoming Ignorance

    We're thrilled to share with you the latest journey of spiritual exploration in our Game of Zen podcast. Enlightenment seekers like yourself won’t want to miss Episode 17, titled "The Third Poison - Ignorance," where our hosts delve deep into one of the greatest barriers on the road to awakening.
    Scott and Paul skillfully navigate through the murky waters of ignorance. As they discuss the impact of not knowing, the dangers of inner turning away, and the perils of a lack of awareness, they lay bare the impact on our self-awareness and compassion for others’ suffering. This conversation is especially pertinent in today's fast-paced world where ignorance can easily take root.
    00:00 Ignorance key teaching in Buddha's philosophy.
    04:48 Meditation leads to self-understanding and understanding others.
    07:50 Levels of ignorance and developing a richer understanding.
    12:10 Navigating entrepreneurship requires humility, adaptability, and decision-making.
    14:52 Ego creates defenses, distorts reality, justifies ignorance.
    18:47 Media ecosystem includes disinformation, deepfakes, reality questioning.
    23:40 Continually open yourself to new experiences.
    25:43 Foolishness brings wisdom and humility in life.
    30:14 Questioning biases, embracing change, opening eyes to suffering.
    32:24 Awareness of physical health is often ignored.
    35:03 Psychedelics can open windows of awareness.
    39:25 Endless path of learning and growth.
    43:51 Offering deep dive work in vows and self.
    45:02 Exploring Zen Buddhism's impact on work and life.
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=zen&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7108548092903202816" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    • 45 min
    E16: Live the Width of Your Life - Interview with Aneta Ardelian Kuzma

    E16: Live the Width of Your Life - Interview with Aneta Ardelian Kuzma

    Dive deep with us in an enriching conversation with special guest Aneta Ardelian Kuzma, a beacon of transformation in the realm of leadership and wellness. Having transcended her illustrious banking career into a passion-driven mission to promote well-being in the corporate world, Aneta's story is bound to captivate and inspire.
    00:00 Early yoga and meditation fueled busy life.
    06:01 Obtained multiple certifications to start coaching practice.
    07:29 Created wellness programs for struggling corporate workers.
    12:41 Coaching clients receive wellness program with somatic healing.
    14:34 Societal norms, upbringing influence self-sabotage, coping skills.
    18:09 Visioning with clients, tying tasks to purpose.
    23:09 Appreciated feedback on community and cultural leadership.
    25:54 Progress in workplace balance, impact of COVID.
    29:41 Prioritize intention, breaks, healthy habits for well-being.
    32:40 Supportive coaching program, typically lasting six months.
    34:21 Live fully every day, mindful of purpose.
    39:35 Free wellness classes and coaching on website.
    40:18 Grateful for tuning in to Game of Zen.
    Links for Aneta Kuzma
    https://akuzmagroup.com/
    Podcast - https://akuzmagroup.com/podcast
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ardeliankuzma/
    LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anetaardeliankuzma/
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha

    • 41 min
    E15 Stepping up & Waking up with Psychedelics

    E15 Stepping up & Waking up with Psychedelics

    In today's episode, we're venturing into the thought-provoking world of psychedelics. Paul & Scott sit down in a riveting discussion that dives deep into the intersection of psychedelics, mental health treatment, and the profound influence these substances can have on our consciousness. From tackling tough topics like big pharma's stance on alternative therapies to sharing personal journeys with micro dosing, this episode is brimming with insights!
    00:00 Connections between mindfulness, Buddhism, meditation, and psychedelics.
    04:10 Sharing extensive journey, learning about psychedelic renaissance.
    08:39 Connected with wife through ayahuasca, unity consciousness.
    10:08 Psychedelics can aid healing and spiritual growth.
    13:52 Overcoming fear, psychedelics' benefits for mental health.
    16:41 Enhancing performance and well-being in work.
    22:24 Microdosing not recommended for strong meditation practice.
    23:25 Unifying brain, controlling thoughts, consciousness levels, meditation.
    28:02 Medical potential of psychedelics and government misinformation.
    30:54 LSD safer than alcohol and cocaine, not for everyone.
    34:22 Vet guides for micro and macro dosing.
    38:21 Future episodes will explore molecules and Buddhism.
    40:50 Psychedelics help expand consciousness, connect deeply.
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Psychedelics #Buddha

    • 43 min
    E14 - Climbing the mountain of excellence - Interview with Bruce Eckfeldt

    E14 - Climbing the mountain of excellence - Interview with Bruce Eckfeldt

    The latest episode of Game of Zen has arrived, and it's a journey you won't want to miss. In episode 14, our hosts Paul & Scott are joined by an extraordinarily dynamic guest, Bruce Eckfeldt. Listen to a thrilling discussion that delves into the untapped potential of the mind and how outdoor experiences meld with strategic leadership development.
    00:00 Personal transformation and business integration in nature.
    04:15 Impressed with you, eager to hear more.
    07:22 Trusting the universe in finding new direction.
    12:32 Observe team dynamics through card deck exercise.
    15:04 Experiences help leaders empathize and give guidance.
    18:33 Define success, set goals, achieve with team.
    21:32 Group work creates powerful experiences, requires structure.
    24:22 Navigating social interactions within group dynamics mentally.
    28:56 Addressing the crux, providing full-service solutions.
    33:29 Combining psychedelics to enhance leadership understanding.
    36:49 Cannabis and psychedelics are becoming more accepted.
    38:46 Comfort and preparation are crucial for success.
    41:58 Cultivating leadership at all levels for better world.
    Bruce Eckfeldt Links:
    https://www.discoverwilder.com/
    https://www.eckfeldt.com/
    Game of Zen links:
    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-game-of-zen/id1700988890
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bjnPE66RC1bCL6h7i68jt?si=184f256fd76342e3&nd=1
    Podcast Landing Page: https://game-of-zen.captivate.fm/
    You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMJ2A-vZkd5ba7bW_8KNFgdkXiSfQh_xv
    Paul Agostinelli
    Zen@Work: https://www.zenatwork.org/
    Zen@Work Today: https://zenatwork.substack.com/
    Email: GameofZenpodcast@gmail.com
    #GameOfZen #NobleTruths #entrepreneurship
    #Buddhism #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha

    • 44 min

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
9 Ratings

9 Ratings

Ry_Rap ,

A Must-Listen for Enlightened Living and Success

"The Game of Zen" podcast is a unique blend of spirituality and practical life advice. I love how it skillfully connects Buddha's teachings and Zen mindfulness to everyday life, work, and play. I highly recommend the show, as it offers insights for achieving whole-hearted success in business and happiness. A must-listen for anyone looking to play life's game with more wisdom and humor.

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