E20 - Integrating Buddhism and Contemporary Coaching Techniques - Interview with Denise Clegg

Episode 20 • 14th June 2024 • The Game of Zen • Scott Berman and Paul Agostinelli

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.