Episode 21

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 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 #Mindfulness #Zen #Concentration #Buddha #Attachment

About the Podcast

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The Game of Zen
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About your hosts

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Paul Agostinelli

Paul is a transmitted Zen teacher, Executive + Life Coach working at the intersection of professional, personal and spiritual development. He is Founder and Spiritual Leader of Eon Zen Center and offers Zen-informed Executive Coaching and Consultancy services through his Zen@Work program (www.zenatwork.org).

Paul received a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics from Dartmouth College and a Master’s Degree in English Literature from the University of Chicago, and has had a long career as an Internet Technology entrepreneur, co-founding and running multiple companies. He is on the Faculty of Willow Farm Contemplative Caregiving Center, and taught Zen for seven years as Adjunct Faculty at Naropa University.
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Scott Berman

Scott is a serial entrepreneur with a long career in Venture Capital, Digital Marketing & Jewelry Manufacturing. He is a devoted student of Zen Buddhism and has been studying with Sensei Paul for the last 3 years. Scott is an avid reader of spiritual books. In addition to the various business ventures, he has been keeping official NBA Basketball Stats for the Philadelphia 76ers since 1988.