Legacy MC Podcast
Mountain Cloud Zen Center
Welcome to the MCZC Podcast. Here, we’ll be sharing our weekly Teisho’s exploring classical Zen Koans, offered by Mountain Cloud teachers, and some guest teachers. Additionally, we’ll be releasing a conversation series, titled Path(less), which will explore the “pathless path” of practice and life.Please consider supporting Mountain Cloud Zen Center through donation and membership, both of which allow us to offer these and other programs. Visit mountaincloud.org for our daily meditation schedule, weekly talks, upcoming retreats, and more.Reach out to grant@mountaincloud.org with any comments/suggestions.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 17, 2025 • 38min
Dharma Talk: The Benevolence of Awakening with Valerie Forstman
In this early spring talk, Valerie turns to the way of awakening, discovered and explored as this world – in the midst – just as it is. Not-two. The talk
Apr 3, 2025 • 34min
Dharma Talk: “By Boat or By Land: Crossing over, fully arrived” with Valerie Forstman
In this talk, Valerie begins by revisiting themes from our recent sesshin – the wellspring of zazen, the intimacy of not-knowing, the peace that passes all understanding. The talk explores
Apr 3, 2025 • 37min
Dharma Talk: “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and the ABC’s of Zen” with Shana Smith
In this teisho, Shana uses Ruben Habito Roshi’s “ABC’s of Zen” as parallels for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. She then explores Case 43 of the Shoyoroku as a pointer into
Mar 11, 2025 • 33min
Dharma Talk: “Waking up to this threshold moment” with Valerie Forstman
In this talk, Valerie begins with poetry as a portal to the language of koans, a language that uses words to go beyond words. Koans don’t just describe or express
4 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 46min
Dharma Talk: “What Moves?” with Valerie Forstman
Two monks debate whether it’s the flag or the wind that moves, while a Zen master reveals the truth lies in our minds. Valerie Forstman reflects on this ancient koan and its relevance in our tumultuous world. Topics include the nature of hope intertwined with personal struggles, the futility of silencing the mind, and the journey towards awakening. A poignant narrative about embracing suffering and interconnectedness unfolds, showing the transformative power of awareness and compassion amidst adversity.
Feb 25, 2025 • 39min
Dharma Talk: Love and Loss in a Seamless World with Valerie Forstman
A heartfelt tribute reflects on the life of a cherished community member. Zen teachings explore the interconnectedness of love, loss, and existence, inviting introspection. A poignant koan prompts reflection on honoring the departed while revealing insights into our true selves. Themes of emptiness are discussed as pathways to enlightenment, alongside a Zen tale illustrating the duality of grief and gratitude. The wisdom shared encourages embracing life's seamless nature amidst the complexities of loss.
Feb 19, 2025 • 31min
Dharma Talk: “Meeting Challenge with Equanimity” with Scott Thornton
In this talk, Scott draws from the Gateless Gate case 13, “Tokusan Carries His Bowls” as a case study for how we can meet mistakes, challenges, and misunderstandings with equanimity.
Feb 11, 2025 • 31min
Dharma Talk: “Listen to the Heart of Things” with Maria Reis Habito
Maria Reis Habito, a skilled speaker on Zen and spirituality, captivates listeners with her insights on reconnecting with our true nature through the sounds of nature. She explores how listening to simple elements like birds and rain can lead to profound self-discovery. Delving into historical koans and the teachings of Father Shigeto Oshida, Maria emphasizes the balance between oneness and everyday life. She also highlights the wisdom of Guan Yin and the importance of silence and compassion in fostering spiritual growth.
Feb 5, 2025 • 36min
Dharma Talk: “The Year of the Snake” with Valerie Forstman
Valerie dives into the transformative themes of the Year of the Snake amidst global chaos. She explores the Zen koan 'Seppo's Poisonous Snake,' unraveling its messages about shedding fixed identities. The discussion contrasts Eastern and Western views on snakes, emphasizing renewal and reflection. Narratives of Seppo and Ganto highlight their struggles with language in the quest for true interconnectedness. Discover how great teachings emerge from our own experiences, covering all that is present and vital.
Jan 28, 2025 • 32min
Dharma Talk: “What Meets the Eye” with Valerie Forstman
This talk begins with a look at Zen’s parable of the second arrow. What does the story say to us now when we may find ourselves despairing about despair? In
