

Meditative Story
WaitWhat
Meditative Story combines extraordinary human stories with meditation prompts embedded into the storylines — all surrounded by breathtaking music. Think of it as an alternative way into a mindfulness practice, through vivid stories and cinematic music and production values. Meditative Story is an original series produced by WaitWhat and supported by our members. Our community tells us that they listen to the same episodes over and over again, and according to data provided by Apple Podcasts, Meditative Story may have the highest engagement of any podcast in the world. And that makes us proud!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 29, 2019 • 27min
One envelope at a time, by Hannah Brencher
Author Hannah Brencher shares the value of handwritten letters in deepening relationships and providing comfort. The podcast explores the significance of physical artifacts in a digital world and the similarities between letter writing and meditation. The host emphasizes the importance of being present and expresses gratitude to the listeners.

Oct 22, 2019 • 30min
Navigating life in my own skin, by Zenju Earthlyn Manuel
In precisely chosen words, the writer, artist and Zen priest Zenju Earthlyn Manuel tells a story from her girlhood, a road trip from LA to Louisiana in 1957. While five-year-old Zenju sits in the back seat dreaming of cowboys, her parents navigate an altogether different landscape. From them, from the trip, Zenju now believes she’s learned how to find her way in the world, in her skin.If this episode resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you. Please take a moment to share your reflections by rating and reviewing Meditative Story in your podcast player. It helps other listeners find their way to the show, and we’d be so grateful.Each episode of Meditative Story combines the emotional pull of first-person storytelling with immersive music and gentle mindfulness prompts. Read the transcript for this story: meditativestory.comSign up for the Meditative Story newsletter: https://meditativestory.com/subscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oct 15, 2019 • 25min
Finding permission to pursue my own dreams, by Josh Radnor
Josh Radnor, actor, producer and director, shares his journey of discovering his passion for acting and the challenges he faced. The impact of a guidance counselor's advice and the importance of finding one's own courage are explored. The podcast also includes a guided meditation and encourages expressing gratitude and helping others.

Oct 8, 2019 • 27min
Hitting the open road to find my way home, by Peter Sagal
Host of NPR’s Wait, Wait...Don’t Tell Me!, Peter Sagal is wrecked and stuck in the wake of a divorce. Suddenly, he finds himself with two free weeks. In need of a healthy distraction, Peter jumps on his Harley for a long solo trip out west. Though he has a destination in mind, what he finds on those quiet, desolate, curvy roads is a new focus, a new voice. And though his aim was to fill his time, he begins to appreciate the quiet – where he can actually hear himself.If this episode resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you. Please take a moment to share your reflections by rating and reviewing Meditative Story in your podcast player. It helps other listeners find their way to the show, and we’d be so grateful.Each episode of Meditative Story combines the emotional pull of first-person storytelling with immersive music and gentle mindfulness prompts. Read the transcript for this story: meditativestory.comSign up for the Meditative Story newsletter: https://meditativestory.com/subscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oct 1, 2019 • 28min
Finding my own reflection, by Jane McGonigal
Game designer Jane McGonigal, an identical twin, explores the magic of sharing DNA while becoming an individual. Topics discussed include reflections on identity and individuality, the impact of physical and mental differences, embracing one's uniqueness, travel experiences and meditation practices, exploring the relationship between mind and body, and recognizing the interdependence of the mind and body.

Sep 24, 2019 • 22min
How to find – and feed – your passion, by Danny Meyer
Restaurateur Danny Meyer shares his journey of passion and creativity, sparked by a memorable plate of pasta in Europe. He discusses the joy of discovering new flavors, the importance of simplicity in cooking, and the beauty of finding small details in everyday experiences.

Sep 17, 2019 • 20min
The perfect photograph I never took, by John Moore
Legendary photojournalist John Moore shares his pursuit of the perfect photograph in the Congo Rainforest. He reflects on the importance of preparedness and luck in impactful photography. He also reveals the awe-inspiring encounter with mountain gorillas in Rwanda and the lessons learned in surrendering to the magic of the present moment.

Sep 10, 2019 • 28min
Krista Tippett: What we discover when we’re not looking
Krista Tippett, host of On Being podcast, reflects on bravery and the power of connections. She shares her experiences in Cold War Berlin and the importance of self-reflection. Tippett discusses the value of silence, restoration, and making life-giving questions. The podcast also explores meditation and being present in the moment.

Sep 3, 2019 • 21min
Fighting my fears – and winning in spite of losing, by Thomas Page McBee
Thomas Page McBee shares his journey of discovering peace and compassion through boxing. He becomes the first trans man to fight at Madison Square Garden, confronting his fears and exploring masculinity. In the boxing ring, he overcomes fear and experiences kindness towards his opponent. The chapter highlights the parallels between boxing and meditation, emphasizing vulnerability and self-exposure. The host expresses gratitude, urges listeners to write reviews, and gives a sneak peek into the next episode.

5 snips
Aug 27, 2019 • 28min
Building a bond with my son, by Dan Harris
Broadcaster Dan Harris shares his attempts to connect more with his son on their first father-son trip. He discusses challenges, cherishing moments, and the power of meditation in building a bond with loved ones. The podcast also explores the importance of honoring bravery and giving oneself credit.


