About this episode
Michael Fischman is a founding member and current president of the U.S. Art of Living Foundation, a non-profit educational and humanitarian organization whose programs have impacted more than 25 million people in more than 140 countries. A former advertising executive with Ogilvy & Mather, he is also the CEO of APEX (Achieving Personal Excellence), the corporate training division of the International Association for Human Values. “For the past twenty years, I have dedicated my life to sharing and growing on a spiritual path that has brought fulfillment and happiness to millions of people around the world,” says Michael. He currently lives in Boca Raton, Florida. Michael's site: http://www.stumblingintoinfinity.com/ Michael's book: Stumbling Into Infinity: An Ordinary Man in the Sphere of Enlightenment Summary and Transcript of this interview Interview recorded 1/2/2011. YouTube Video Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Michael Fischman and the Art of Living Foundation 00:03:21 - An Apparition of My Grandfather and the Fear of Death 00:05:46 - A Glimpse of Sri Sri 00:08:37 - Interacting with an Enlightened Master 00:11:40 - The Power of Sudarshan Kriya 00:14:05 - The Phenomenon of Sudarshan Kriya 00:16:57 - Bringing Everything Into Alignment 00:19:09 - From Aggression to Empathy and Understanding 00:21:55 - Celebration and Integration in Life 00:24:29 - The Importance of a Teacher in Spiritual Growth 00:27:14 - The Expansion of Consciousness and the Private Life 00:29:35 - Love as a Global Phenomenon 00:31:57 - Finding Purpose in Life and Serving Others 00:34:05 - Enriching Your Life by Making a Difference 00:36:03 - Softening Conflict in the Middle East 00:38:36 - Stereotyping and Attracting Negativity 00:41:06 - The Power of Sudarshan Kriya 00:43:26 - Funding Inner City Schools through Donations 00:46:24 - The Power of Being Present 00:48:56 - Being Centered in the Midst of Trying Situations 00:51:02 - The Witnessing State and Taking Responsibility for Your Feelings 00:53:06 - Taking Responsibility for Your Emotions 00:55:20 - Personal Empowerment and Service to Others 00:57:12 - Recharging through breathing techniques and meditation 00:59:30 - The Diversity of Spiritual Paths 01:01:58 - The Power of Unconditional Love 01:04:37 - The Guru's Care for Others 01:07:35 - The Mysterious Ways of the Guru 01:10:59 - The Importance of Proximity to an Enlightened Master 01:13:50 - Accessibility of the Master