Bringing Zen Into Prison – w/ Jody Williams

Ep 19: Trauma, Seeking, and the Stillness Beneath It All

 

Exploring the unique life behind bars to the stillness of Zen meditation, Jody Williams shares how presence—not perfection—became his path.

In this episode, we unpack the layers of his path of life experiences, and beliefs shape boundaries, and the uncomfortable truths of working with inmates while wrestling with his own ego.

From guiding prisoners through mindfulness to sitting across from convicted killers, Jody doesn’t just talk about practice—he lives it. His path is one of direct experience, fierce honesty, and service to others.

This conversation doesn't shy away from the edge and goes deep—because that’s exactly where transformation happens.

 

What’s in This Episode?

- The life-altering moment that cracked us open

- Zen Buddhism and altered states: going inward vs. masking

- The gritty realities of service work in prison settings

- Scary moments, tough inmates, and spiritual boundaries

- The power of switching from “Why” to “What” questions

- “And, not Or” thinking and how to shift perspective

- How belief systems quietly shape your reality

- The realization that your seeking is part of your suffering

 

🎧 Where to Watch & Listen: ▶️ YouTube - 🟢 Spotify -🍏 Apple - 🫘 Podbean & 👍 Facebook

Links are in the comments for easy access.

 

Connect with Jody Williams:

📷 Instagram: @jodyawilliams

👍 Facebook: facebook.com/jodywlliams1974

 

📢 Before we dive in, do me a favor!

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