Michael Franco

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 12: The Virtue of Noncompetition

In this episode, we open with the Tao te Ching's description of the attributes to be cultivated through the Tao. We continue with some talking points on Fractals, Cymatics, and Nothingness. Next, we read a passage from Old Path, White Clouds on the Buddha's teaching regarding how to "flow all the way to the sea." We close with the Zohar's teaching on the first passuq of the Torah.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 11: Fractal Infinity

In this episode, we open with the Tao te Ching's description of the humility of the sage. We then discuss the concept of fractals and the implications this has for infinity. We close with the Zohar's description of the first three words of Creation.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 10: Simple Greatness

In this episode, we hold a discussion on the Tao te Ching's advice on practicing nonaction and achieving greatness through simplicity. We then analyze a story from Old Path White Clouds regarding the Buddha's advice on avoiding overarching theories of reality. We close with the Zohar's words on the early stages of Bereshit. 

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 9: The Treasure-House

In this episode, we open with the Tao te Ching's remedy for evil. We then engage in a discussion about OCD, Jacob, and the shadow element. Next, we examine Alan Watts' eloquent words regarding how the ego finally gives up. We close with our continued study of the Zohar's explanation of Bereshit. 

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 8: Patterned Resonance

In this class, we open with quotes from the Tao te Ching and then expand into a wider discussion based on Alan Watts' explanation of field theory and the natural patterns of the Tao. We close with the beginning of the Zohar's brilliant opening to Bereshit.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 7: Zen Gardens

In this episode, we begin with some quotes from the Buddha and the Tao te Ching. We then take a close look at the philosophy of Zen gardens and architecture. We close with the 14th and final commandment of Bereshit, thus concluding the introduction to the Zohar.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 6: The Secret Embrace

In this episode, we focus on select passages of the Tao te Ching and spark an in-depth discussion regarding what it means to be in line with the Tao. We finish the story of Angulimala from Old Path, White Clouds and we close with the Zohar's 12th and 13th commandments of Bereshit.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 5: Eternal Light

In this podcast, we open with some moving and joyful sections of the Tao te Ching. We then explore some Zen stories regarding suicide and the reformation of a murderer. We close with the Zohar's beautiful discussion of the significance of Tefillin, the 10th commandment of Bereshit.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 4: Realize Your Essence

In this class, we open with a Zen story about the value of presence over eloquence. We continue with quotes from the Tao te Ching and discussions of attaining enlightenment. After some words from Jayasara and Thich Nhat Hanh, we end with the Zohar's ninth commandment of Bereshit regarding the importance of generosity and charity.

Spiritual Psychotherapy Season 4 Episode 3: Yonah of Peace

In this podcast, we begin with some excerpts from the Book of Yonah, noticing, through intertexts and midrash, the philosophical transformation that occurs. We trace this theme within the Tao te Ching and the Buddhist Sutta regarding right speech. We close with the Zohar's eighth commandment of Bereshit.