The Game of Zen
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.
E26 -Zen and the Journey of Aging: Embracing Change and Impermanence

A new episode of the Game of Zen podcast is now available: We dive deep into Zen Buddhism and aging, discussing how mindfulness and acceptance play vital roles in coping with loss, planning for the future, and learning from life’s unpredictable nature. We also touch on the importance of being present with loved ones in their final moments and how appreciating life's impermanence can transform our approach to aging and death. Don't miss this enlightening conversation for invaluable insights on living more meaningfully. Listen now!
00:00 Buddhism teaches impermanence through aging's challenges.
06:20 Parents declining; family ex...
E25 - Zen at Work & Home- Balancing Family, Spirituality, and Relationships

Welcome back to another enriching episode of "Game of Zen," where we explore the synergy between professional, personal, and spiritual growth through the lens of Buddhism and Zen mindfulness. In this episode, hosts Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo Agostinelli dive into the profound influence of spirituality on relationships, drawing from their personal journeys and Buddhist teachings.
Join us as Paul unpacks the concept of "karmic atonement" and its impact on future relationships, while Scott reflects on his past experiences with gratitude and the evolving qualities he seeks in a partner. The hosts emphasize the importance of mutual...
E24 - Experiencing Mind: Psychedelics and Zen for Personal Growth

In this new episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of psychedelics, focusing on their integration with mindfulness and Zen Buddhism. This is part two of our exploration into how substances like MDMA and psilocybin can revolutionize our approach to mental health and spiritual growth.
Paul shares his profound insights on how safe and regulated use of psychedelics can enhance personal and societal well-being. He will discuss the subtle yet transformative effects of micro dosing, and liken the benefits to those of a consistent meditation practice."
This episode is packed with valuable information for...
E23 - Mindfulness in Action: How Courtney Schulnick Found Freedom & Fulfillment Through Practice

In today's episode, we have a very special guest joining us - Courtney Schulnick, an accomplished litigator and dedicated mindfulness teacher. Courtney shares her inspiring journey of discovering mindfulness amidst the challenges of balancing a demanding legal career with being a wife and mother to three boys.
Driven by experiences of stress, anxiety, and a longing for better work-life balance, Courtney initially resisted the idea of committing to a mindfulness-based stress reduction program. However, a series of personal losses and overwhelming demands led her to an orientation session at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, where she realized the...
E22 -The Alchemy of Presence - Working with Teachers, Coaches and Guides

In our latest episode, Paul and I dove deep into the topic of teachers and their impact on our personal and professional lives. We discussed the three levels of Buddha treasure, the importance of engaging with formal teachings, and how business coaching can provide practical guidance for growth and awakening in the work world. Paul shared his journey as a Zen teacher and how he now helps entrepreneurs and coaches find their true potential. We also reflected on the teachers who have shaped our own lives, from family members to mentors in sports and business. The key takeaway? Finding...
E21 - Zen and the Beginners Mind: Embracing Fresh perspectives in Life & Work

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "Game of Zen." Today, we're diving into the transformative power of the beginner's mind with your hosts, Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo Agostinelli. We explore how adopting a mindset free of preconceived notions and habitual thinking can lead to continuous growth, enriched relationships, and enhanced problem-solving abilities.
Scott and Paul kick off the conversation with personal anecdotes, including wisdom gleaned from their aging parents and the joy of seeing the world anew, even through their children's eyes.
Whether it's in business, relationships, or daily routines, opening up to...
E20 - Integrating Buddhism and Contemporary Coaching Techniques - Interview with Denise Clegg

Welcome to Episode 20 of the Game of Zen, the podcast where we explore the intriguing intersection of professional, personal, and spiritual growth through the lens of Zen mindfulness and Buddhist teachings. Your hosts, Scott Berman and Paul Gyodo Agostinelli, are thrilled to welcome our insightful guest, Denise Clegg. With a rich background in Tibetan Buddhism, contemplative practices, coaching, and personality assessment, Denise brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussion today.
In this episode, Denise takes us on a journey through her introduction to mindfulness and her profound experiences at the Zen Mountain monastery and...
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 apprecia...
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...
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...