The Game of Zen

By: Scott Berman and Paul Agostinelli
  • Summary

  • The Game of Zen explores the often-overlooked ways in which professional, personal and spiritual growth are interrelated. We dive deep into the life teachings of the Buddha and the mindfulness practices of Zen, revealing how they can help us dramatically expand our possibilities for whole-hearted work, life and play. Play the game of life with wisdom, humor and skill for better businesses and happier lives.
    Copyright 2024 Scott Berman and Paul Agostinelli
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Episodes
  • E24 - Experiencing Mind: Psychedelics and Zen for Personal Growth
    Nov 15 2024

    In this new episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of psychedelics, focusing on their integration with mindfulness and Zen Buddhism. This is part two of our exploration into how substances like MDMA and psilocybin can revolutionize our approach to mental health and spiritual growth.

    Paul shares his profound insights on how safe and regulated use of psychedelics can enhance personal and societal well-being. He will discuss the subtle yet transformative effects of micro dosing, and liken the benefits to those of a consistent meditation practice."

    This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone curious about the intersection of psychedelics, mindfulness, and personal growth. So, stay tuned, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and engage with us on 'Game of Zen'. Let's get started!"

    00:00 Psychedelics offer clear, simple value insights.

    04:58 Meditation and micro dosing aid mental awareness.

    09:18 Consistency and time improve understanding and results.

    10:50 Maintain spiritual sadhana with personalized protocol.

    13:22 Plant medicine could slow neurological disease progression.

    19:31 Psilocybin focus, but MDMA, ketamine gaining acceptance.

    22:21 Develop a personal relationship with plant medicine.

    26:15 Self-improvement requires mindfulness, meditation, and guidance.

    27:10 Intentional life framework enhances safe psychoactive use.

    31:33 Macro dosing: Potential breakthroughs, risks, needs safe framework.

    34:58 Concern over commercialization of clinical medicines.

    37:22 Regulators struggle safely legalizing substances, past mistakes.

    42:11 Normalizing plant medicine is becoming increasingly common.

    43:57 Open conversations help share experiences and guidance.

    47:36 Explore Zen's influence; subscribe, share, comment.

    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

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    48 mins
  • E23 - Mindfulness in Action: How Courtney Schulnick Found Freedom & Fulfillment Through Practice
    Aug 16 2024

    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:

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    54 mins
  • E22 -The Alchemy of Presence - Working with Teachers, Coaches and Guides
    Aug 9 2024

    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

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    45 mins

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