Pod #4 - Behind the Buddha's Smile w/ Delson Armstrong

Welcome to this Captivating Episode of Filter Feeders!

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What’s life really like for monks and in monasteries? Forget the romanticized visions of perfection—this episode invites you behind the serene façades as Ollie and Vinny welcome Delson Armstrong, an accomplished meditation teacher and author whose deep dive into the monastic world offers unparalleled insight. With humour, raw honesty, and Delson’s years of experience navigating both traditional Buddhism and modern spirituality, this conversation uncovers the hidden truths of Buddhist practice. From debunking meditation myths to examining how monasteries adapt (or clash) with the modern world, Delson helps redefine what it means to walk the path to enlightenment.

So settle in—whether you’re a 🧘‍♂️ mindfulness novice or a seasoned seeker 🕉️, there’s something here for anyone curious 🤔 about the reality behind the Buddha’s iconic smile 😊.

🎧 Episode Highlights:

⏱ [00:01:07] 😲 Breaking Down Enlightenment: Delson busts myths about what it means to spiritually awaken—can you have sex, relationships, and still find your inner Buddha?

⏱ [00:06:40] 🌓 The Shadows We Fear: How repressing life’s challenges under “toxic positivity” often leads to mental burnout and the courage it takes to face our darker selves.

⏱ [00:23:00] 📜 Buddhist Ethics in a Nutshell: Can spirituality adapt to a world of social media and capitalism? Ollie questions, Vinny ponders, Delson enlightens.

⏱ [00:37:50] 📱 Monks in the Digital Era: Delson elaborates on navigating 21st-century pressures—from social media to financial obligations—and whether modern monasticism can survive.

⏱ [00:52:12] 🕒 Too Busy to Be Mindful: How modern schedules clash with traditional practice—and ways to reclaim inner time.

🔗 Delve Deeper

• ✨ All things Delson Armstrong can be found at his site delsonarmstrong.com.
• 😱 Kill the Buddha! An exclusive article written by Delson for Filter Feeders Friends.
• 📝 Catch up with the latest newsletter and be reminded (not spammed) by subscribing to our site filterfeeders.fyi.

💌 Keep Filtering Together!

• 🗣️ Join the conversation at The Filtration Station, our Discord space for debates, memes, and mindfulness chat.
• 📨 Got a question or feedback? Write to us at [e-mail].
• 📱 Links to our socials are available on the Filter Feeders site, plus updates and bonus musings.

And don’t forget to leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review—Vinny’s mum awaits your thoughts.

🗝️🥡 Key Takeaway of the Week

Life behind the Buddha’s smile isn’t an Instagram filter—it’s real, complex, and incredibly human. Delson's stories and insights shed light on how modern spirituality can—and must—embrace those imperfections to grow.

So breathe deeply, question deeply, and keep seeking your own middle path.

Stay curious and, just maybe, a little mischievous. 😏

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