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 transformative potential of mindfulness practice.

Join us as we delve into Courtney's story of healing and growth, learning how her deep engagement with mindfulness not only brought more balance and presence into her personal life but also enhanced her ability to serve clients as a lawyer. We discuss the challenges and rewards of maintaining a mindfulness practice, the impact it can have on the legal profession, and the unexpected paths that open up when we commit to being present and compassionate with ourselves.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this heartfelt and insightful conversation with Courtney Schulnick on Game of Zen!

Links for Courtney:

Courtney Schulnick Mindfulness

Courtney Schulnick LinkedIn

Jefferson Health Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

00:00 Striving for perfection creates anxiety and stress.

04:15 Juggling work and family during fertility challenges.

07:56 Grieving the loss of beloved pet intensely.

13:21 Late nights, imbalanced life, heightened self-awareness.

15:04 Mindfulness practice brings balance and significant benefits.

18:19 Recognizing mental patterns for personal and professional freedom.

24:20 Attorneys find ease through body-mind connection.

26:01 Mindfulness improves communication, feelings, and decision-making.

29:45 Deepened mindfulness practice, teaching practicum, program creation.

33:22 Lawyer finds fulfillment in guiding anxious clients.

37:37 Choosing to be present and engage fully.

40:42 MBSR course participants share stress and growth.

44:49 Strive for clarity, not stress, in work.

47:47 Staying present leads to optimal outcomes.

49:03 Choose wise responses, mindfulness, neuroscience's impact.

53:14 Explore Zen Buddhism's transformative influence for growth.

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:

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 a trustworthy and collaborative relationship with a teacher is essential for effective learning and development. So, whether you're seeking spiritual guidance or professional growth, remember the power of teachers in your life. Thanks for tuning in to the Game of Zen!

00:00 Chaotic summer, reliance on teachings, gratitude for teachers.

03:56 Recognized need for guidance in Zen teachings.

07:23 Formal study with Zumi Hiroshi, moved to Colorado.

12:13 Adapting Zen teachings for modern work environment.

16:39 Grateful for learning from many different people.

19:38 Zen teacher with extensive meditation experience offers guidance.

22:53 Strangers projecting onto us, mirroring back truly.

26:08 Three levels of Buddha treasure, historical, formal, inner.

29:21 Seeking practical guidance for spiritual and work growth.

31:02 Coaches guide, role model, catalyze growth in work.

37:21 Learned NBA stats from guru, uncle was Buddhist.

38:23 Influential deaths led to personal growth.

41:29 Importance of trusting relationship in Zen teaching.

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

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 new perspectives isn't just beneficial—it's essential. Get ready to be inspired by stories of travel, mindfulness practices, and the infectious enthusiasm of Bill Walton. Subscribe now and join us for a journey into Zen, curiosity, and living life with a fresh perspective.

00:00 Honoring beginner's mind in Zen teachings.

05:37 Meditation reveals our habits through resistance.

08:49 Memories can enhance or limit present experiences.

10:22 Egos reinforced by expertise, beware of fixed solutions.

14:29 Get to the heart of the issue.

18:21 Zen master's lifelong dedication to learning and teaching.

20:27 Listening to mom's stories enhances relationship.

25:00 Social media and cell phones have changed knowledge.

26:56 Challenge conditioned ideas for personal and professional growth.

30:56 Learning different cultures broadens our perspectives.

35:13 Meditation helps clear thoughts and focus present.

39:28 Approaching others with a fresh, open mind.

40:41 Intimate relationships involve challenges, strong emotions.

45:16 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

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 the International Campaign for Tibet. We delve deep into her commitment to aligning vows and values, and how this balance is pivotal in both personal and professional realms. Denise sheds light on body-based practices in Zen Buddhism, the importance of somatic awareness, and how these principles can guide us towards self-discovery and growth.

Join us in this enriching conversation as we uncover ways to connect with our innate capacities and embrace a mindful existence. Subscribe to the Game of Zen and let's embark on this journey of mindfulness together.

00:00 Complexity of life and contemplative practice discussed.

05:03 Seeking teacher to focus on inner experiences.

08:25 Reflective journey from New York to psychology.

10:25 Gratitude for direct and clear meditation teachings.

14:38 Focused on outcomes, principles, and potential discovery.

17:28 Interest in body-mind modalities, resistant to science.

20:14 Interest in funding for research on mental capacities.

24:58 High and low scores don't define you.

29:17 Beneficial, supportive, valuable, reflective, aligned, creative, questioning.

30:44 Actions and words impact relationships and outcomes.

36:46 Embracing growth, seeking change, and pushing boundaries.

38:57 Life events trigger practical, detail-oriented behavior changes.

40:37 Reflection on personal growth and self-awareness.

44:49 Values shaped by archetypes, push out comfort.

49:05 Buddhist tradition focuses on body, breath, awareness.

51:47 Deepened intuitive understanding through embodied learning experience.

53:11 Grateful for the capacity to help others.

Denise Clegg links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deniseclegg/

https://principlesyou.com/

https://deniseclegg.com/

https://the3doors.org/

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

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

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

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

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