The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Three: Right Speech

Feb 20, 2026

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

In this episode, I explore the third step of the Noble Eightfold Path, Right Speech, and why it might more accurately be called Right Listening. I begin with a story about the so-called “Marcus Syndrome”, the habit of using someone else’s speaking time to prepare your reply. From there, I revisit Right View and Right Intention, and how the way we hold our inner world naturally shapes the words we send out into the world.

We look at the classical categories of unskillful speech and then discuss four questions you can ask yourself before you speak. At the heart of it all is the rare and vulnerable skill of listening. I also reflect briefly on a teaching from the Heart Sutra about how one’s capacity to listen can create deeper insight in others.

Highlights

The “Marcus Syndrome” and the illusion that we are listening when we are really rehearsing
How Right View and Right Intention give rise to Right Speech
Why listening may be the highest communication skill
The four forms of unskillful speech
- Lying, including half truths and things we repeat without certainty
- Abusive speech, and the difference between harm and skillful anger
- Divisive speech that separates people from one another
- Idle speech that fills space without purpose
Four questions to ask before speaking
- Is it true
- Is it beneficial
- Is it clear
- Is it timely
The power of presence and how good listening is contagious

Music After Party
A Change Is Gonna Come by Sam Cooke

I share why this song feels like a masterwork of sorrow and strength. It is a statement of grief and hope held in the same breath.

You can also listen here.

Watch this episode on video
If you’d like to watch the podcast, the video version is here.

Thoughts?
You can send your questions or reflections via Instagram DM or through our form — I’d love to include them in future episodes.

Fearless Creativity: A Meditation and Writing Retreat

Join me at Drala Mountain Center in the Colorado Rockies for Fearless Creativity, a meditation and writing retreat offering dedicated time for creative work alongside guided meditation and conversation. Writers of all genres and levels are welcome, with no prior

If you enjoyed this episode:

Please rate, review, and share it with a friend who’s curious about mindfulness, spiritual commitment, or the Buddhist path.

For more on Buddhist teachings and how our humanity isn’t necessarily in our way, sign up for my free weekly newsletter or join the Open Heart Project sangha for more connection with community and with me.

If this podcast has been meaningful to you, it would be great if you would subscribe, give it a five star rating and share it with a friend. To join or learn more about The Open Heart Project please visit openheartproject.com.

Thoughts? Email us at info@susanpiver.com

Produced by Citizens of Sound