Living the Tao-A Spiritual Podcast

Most people think stress comes from big problems. Taoism suggests something different. In this free Living the Tao Short (2-23), Master Mikel Steenrod explores how sudden changes—whether they seem good or bad—place demands on the body and mind. Using weather as a starting point, he explains why rapid shifts can drain our reserves, disrupt our balance, and gradually affect both quality of life and longevity. A beautiful warm day in the middle of winter may feel wonderful, but your body still has to adapt. The same principle applies to life itself. Stressors often arrive in clusters, and while any one challenge might be manageable, repeated shocks can accumulate over time. Discover why Taoists pay attention to mismatches, adaptation, recovery, and the hidden costs of rapid change—and what you can do to restore yourself when life moves too fast. To view the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/CV8ro9J0dlc   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Premium Episodes and Full Catalog (4x the content): https://living-the-tao.supercast.com     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Before the Jade Rabbit became the dominant symbol of the moon, another creature occupied the lunar imagination of ancient China—the mysterious Three-Legged Moon Toad. In this subscriber-only episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores one of the oldest and most overlooked symbols associated with Yin. Beginning with the children's tale of Jip Jip, the moon toad who gradually consumes the moon before laying an egg and beginning the cycle anew, the discussion expands into classical Taoist symbolism, lunar mythology, fertility, regeneration, and the evolution of religious storytelling. Along the way, listeners will discover: The myth of Jip Jip and the Three-Legged Moon Toad Why the moon became one of the primary symbols of Yin The relationship between the Moon Toad, Chang'e, and the Jade Rabbit How myths change as cultures and religions evolve The role of historical context in understanding Taoist texts Classical perspectives on regeneration, fertility, and cyclical existence Blending mythology, history, symbolism, and Taoist philosophy, this episode reveals how a forgotten lunar creature can illuminate some of the oldest ideas in the Taoist tradition. Unlock the full episode now on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

In this episode of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod explores the ancient myth of the Fusang tree, the ten suns, and the mysterious three-legged crow that became one of the great symbolic images of East Asian spirituality. Beginning with the ancient legend itself, the episode examines how the Sun Crow myth evolved from early shamanic and mythological roots into Taoist cosmology, esoteric symbolism, and qi theory. Along the way, the discussion explores the meaning of the sun as a source of yang, the symbolic role of the black crow within the blazing sun, and why Taoist traditions viewed excess yang as dangerous rather than desirable. Topics include: the origins of the three-legged crow the Fusang world tree yin within yang and “true yang” excess stimulation and energetic imbalance Hou Yi and the celestial archer Taoist vs Confucian interpretations of myth the crow as purifier and transformer the evolution of mythology through time Blending mythology, Taoist philosophy, symbolism, and cosmology, this episode examines how ancient stories became tools for understanding balance, transformation, and the energetic structure of life itself.   Unlock the full episode now on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Is there really a “Daoist diet”? In this episode of Living the Tao Shorts (2-22), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores one of the most misunderstood subjects in Taoist practice: food restrictions, dietary cultivation, and the purpose behind them. Rather than rigid rules or moral prohibitions, traditional Daoist approaches to diet were often based on observation, experimentation, longevity, and energetic outcome. The discussion explores: The real meaning of the ancient Bigu diet Why some Daoist traditions reduced grain consumption The relationship between food, herbs, and Qi How Daoism historically approached experimentation and fringe practices The influence of Buddhism on later dietary restrictions Why Daoism tends to reject ideology in favor of direct results This is a practical and historically grounded conversation about food, health, and cultivation within the broader Daoist tradition.   To explore Bigu more deeply, try this article here: https://www.watermountainvirtual.com/what-is-bigu/ To view the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/gRMV36dDoug  🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

In this subscriber episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores the “bedrock” beneath Taoist cultivation and asks a deceptively simple question: What should a person actually build within themselves? The discussion examines the original meaning of Wu Wei beyond passivity, the dangers of spiritual status-seeking, and the Taoist concept of Ling — the subtle spiritual presence tied to harmony, karma, nature, and authentic development. The episode also explores how natural gifts emerge from one’s substrate, why some people unconsciously suppress their own development, and why community interaction plays such a critical role in spiritual growth within Taoist practice. Topics include: Wu Wei and naturalness Spirituality vs social status Ling as spiritual presence Karma and the use of personal gifts Community and Taoist cultivation The Taoist view of authentic human development Subscriber Episode: Living the Tao 1-180 — Your Personal Bedrock, Your Personal Gifts Unlock the full episode now on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

In this special trailer for Living the Tao Episode 1-178, Master Steenrod explores the ancient Taoist symbolism of feathers, thunder, and liberation. What does it mean to shake off the “red dust” of the world? Why were feathers associated with transcendence, freedom, and the feathered immortal? And how did older Taoist traditions understand thunder as a force capable of breaking emotional and spiritual obstruction? Blending traditional symbolism, esoteric concepts, and oral teaching methods, this brief preview introduces one of the more atmospheric and reflective episodes of the series. Feathers, Thunder, and Liberation — available now on Living the Tao.  Unlock the full episode now on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

What does Taoism say about manifestation? And why doesn’t Taoism actually use that word? In this episode of Living the Tao, we explore the Taoist concept closest to manifestation: invocation. Rather than wishing for outcomes, Taoist practice focuses on directing choice and karma within a universe shaped by probability. The discussion looks at why some changes are easier to bring about than others, why small outcomes often succeed where large ones fail, and how energy limits what can be created. We also explore the Taoist view that the universe is equal but not fair, why abundance and karma are not the same thing, and why most people struggle to change outcomes. The conversation compares invocation with prayer, explains why invoking need can create more need, and examines how classical Taoist practice approaches shaping reality. This episode provides a grounded Taoist framework for understanding manifestation without superstition, focusing instead on choice, energy, and practical limits.   🌐 Explore more Taoist Invocation teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com/taoist-invocation-meaning-practice-and-examples/ 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Is consistency really the key to success? In this Shorts episode of Living the Tao (2-21), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod examines one of the most common ideas in modern self-improvement—and challenges it from a Taoist perspective. Through a discussion on repetition, flexibility, and human behavior, this episode explores: The limits of discipline when it becomes mechanical The importance of adaptability in achieving meaningful outcomes The philosophical contrast between structure and responsiveness And the deeper question of what success actually means Blending practical insight with classical Taoist thought, this episode offers a different way of looking at progress, effort, and purpose. Video version of this episode can be found here: https://youtu.be/tCLIywBCuoU   Living the Tao Shorts are brief conversations exploring Taoist philosophy, perception, and practice in everyday life. 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

What if everything you were trained to become… wasn’t enough? In this subscriber-only episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores the ancient story of Wangziqiao—a Zhou-era prince who mastered the refined arts of order and discipline, only to walk away from them in search of something deeper. After years of training in the mountains, he is given a simple object—a whistle carved from the bone of a crane. One breath, and the heavens answer. A crane descends. He mounts it and vanishes into the West. This episode goes beyond the story to explore its deeper meaning, including: The tension between structured living and spiritual freedom The crane as a symbol of transcendence and immortality The transformation from heaviness to lightness in internal cultivation The connection to the I Ching and the cycle of return This is a focused symbolic breakdown designed for listeners ready to go deeper into Taoist thought and practice. 👉 Unlock the full episode now on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

In this subscriber-only episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores one of the most difficult and universal parts of life: waiting. Drawing from the ancient wisdom of the I Ching, Steenrod examines why nearly 28% of its hexagrams deal with waiting, delay, or obstruction in some form. Focusing on Hexagram 12 — Standstill and Hexagram 5 — Waiting, he explains the profound difference between stagnation and preparation. When is waiting a trap? When is waiting nourishment? When should you preserve your energy… and when should you prepare to cross the great water? This episode explores the symbolism of the lines, the accumulation of pressure behind change, and the Taoist understanding of timing, patience, and action. If you’ve ever felt blocked, uncertain, or trapped in a period of delay, this episode offers an ancient lens through which to understand what kind of waiting you’re experiencing—and what to do next. Subscribe now on Supercast for full access to this episode and the full archive of subscriber-only teachings.   🎧 Listen to the full subscriber episode on supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Why don’t we see spirits, demons, dragons, and other beings described in Taoist traditions? Are they somewhere else — or are we simply not perceiving them? In this Living the Tao Short, Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explore how assumptions shape reality and how the social mind filters what we experience. The discussion moves through expectation, normalization, and the idea that perception is limited not only by our senses, but by awareness, choice, and energy. Using memorable analogies — floating beside someone, a dragon appearing on the path, and fish unaware of the giant outside their bowl — the conversation builds toward a central Taoist position: reality may be far broader than what we allow ourselves to notice. This episode also introduces the Taoist relationship between perception, awareness, and choice, and explains why energy accumulation plays a role in what a person can perceive. A concise but thought-provoking look at unseen layers of reality and why they may remain unseen. Living the Tao Shorts are brief conversations exploring Taoist philosophy, perception, and practice in everyday life.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Most people approach qi as something to be gained—more energy, more vitality, more power. But the reality is more complicated. In this subscriber episode (1-175) of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores the Qi Sphere within the Four Ascendant Sphere framework and the often overlooked truth behind internal development: the ability to accumulate qi is not determined by technique alone, but by behavior. As practitioners move beyond human-to-human interaction and into direct relationship with the life force itself, underlying weaknesses begin to surface. Without the internal structure to support it, increased qi does not elevate—it destabilizes. This episode examines the historical shift from external alchemy to internal cultivation, and why Taoist practice ultimately turned inward. It also outlines the practical implications for those seeking real progress, and why transformation of the self is not optional when working with the life force. Exploring the Qi Sphere is a focused look at the relationship between power, behavior, and stability—and what it actually means to engage with qi in a meaningful way. Full episode available to subscribers, along with AMA access, commentary, and community discussion. 🎧 Listen to the full subscriber episode on supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

In this subscriber-only episode (1-174), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores the turtle as an organizing force within Taoist thought. Beginning with a classic teaching story of a turtle withdrawing beneath a storm, the discussion expands into the turtle’s deeper symbolic and practical roles across Taoist tradition. The episode examines how the turtle shell became an early tool for extracting order from chaos through divination practices that predate the I Ching, and how its structured form influenced cosmological thinking. Mikel also discusses the ancient Daoist board game Liubo, modeled after the turtle’s undershell, which functioned as both entertainment and a symbolic map for understanding movement through the universe. The turtle’s association with longevity, containment, and the preservation of qi is explored, along with its comparison to jade as a storage medium for essence. The discussion then connects these ideas to Taoist cosmology, including the emergence of differentiation from chaos and the need for ordering devices to understand reality. This episode presents the turtle as a model for survival, perception, and energetic containment, offering a practical and symbolic framework for navigating chaos while preserving vitality.   Full episode available to subscribers, along with AMA access, commentary, and community discussion. 🎧 Listen to the full subscriber episode on supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Free will is usually treated as a human question — do we have it, or are we determined? In this Living the Tao Short, the discussion moves in a different direction entirely. Starting from a Taoist premise that everything is Dao, the conversation explores what that means for equality, change, and the nature of choice. If the Dao neither favors nor disfavors anything, then how does anything happen? The answer leads to a surprising conclusion: choice is the mechanism of change, and choice exists everywhere — not just in human thought. Along the way, this short episode challenges several assumptions: That humans primarily choose through rational thinking That free will belongs only to conscious beings That having free will means unlimited options That change comes from intellect rather than energy Instead, choice is framed as an energetic process expressed differently across all things. Humans experience it one way, but the same principle applies universally. Even a rock, in its own way, may be exercising choice. A brief conversation designed for reflection.     🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/-eeaty6QARM     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

What if the feeling that you’re separate… isn’t real? In this episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explore one of the most powerful illusions shaping modern life—the belief that we are disconnected from nature, from reality, and from the Dao itself. At the center of this discussion is the concept of the social mind—a framework that creates identity, belonging, and meaning, but also introduces a false sense of separation. As it grows stronger, our natural connection to reality becomes harder to perceive. This episode explores: Why we feel separate from the world around us How the social mind creates and reinforces that illusion The connection between belonging, love, and identity Why systems of power often depend on separation A striking historical example showing how belief can shift under pressure Why Taoism has long been seen as a disruptive or “dangerous” philosophy At its core, this conversation points to a simple truth: You already belong. You always have. You don’t need to earn connection to the Dao—you only need to stop believing that you’re separate from it.   Video episode is available on youtube here: https://youtu.be/iDRZ30EQ65M 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/RnXn_V9ou2M   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Does humor always come from pain? In this upcoming subscriber episode of Living the Tao, we explore a different possibility—one rooted in Taoist thought. Through classical perspective, lived experience, and a story that took nearly a decade to unfold, this episode looks at how humor can arise not from tension or injury, but from clarity. What happens when expectation is interrupted? What happens when illusion is seen for what it is? From the playful behavior of Taoist immortals to a practical joke years in the making, this episode examines humor as a tool—not just for laughter, but for loosening the grip of the social mind. Full episode available to subscribers, along with AMA access, commentary, and community discussion.   🎧 Listen to the full subscriber episode on supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Does the universe have a specific purpose for your life? In this Living the Tao Shorts episode (2-18), Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explore a question often associated with the Buddhist idea of dharma—the belief that each person has a role or destiny within a larger cosmic plan. But does Daoism see life that way? Daoist philosophy offers a surprisingly simple perspective. Human life generally moves in one of two directions: cultivating a reasonably happy and durable life, or exploring the deeper nature of existence itself. The discussion examines why people often feel they should be searching for something more, the hidden trap inside the “meaning of life” question, and why Daoism ultimately places the responsibility for meaning on the individual rather than on the universe. Instead of discovering a predetermined purpose, Daoism suggests something both liberating and challenging: Each person carves their own direction through life.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/HsNegtsxJAI     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

There is an immortal in Taoist tradition who does not declare her power. She simply states that she has watched the sea turn into land… three times. In this episode (1-171), Master Mikel Steenrod examines the fragmented legend of Magu, one of the oldest known immortals in Taoist tradition, and what her story reveals about early Taoist practice, shamanic origins, and the true nature of immortality. This trailer introduces a deeper exploration into: The meaning behind Magu’s reference to geological transformation Why she is known as the “Hemp Immortal” and what that signals about early civilization The role of immortal banquets and the symbolic use of “wine” as elixir The presence of female immortals in early Taoist tradition—and how that changed over time This is not simply a myth. It is a fragment of a much older system—one that predates philosophy and reflects Taoism as it was originally practiced. 🎧 Listen to the full subscriber episode on supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Is it better to become highly specialized… or to remain adaptable? Modern society often pushes us toward specialization. We are encouraged to develop a narrow skill, become highly useful, and build our lives around productivity. But Taoist philosophy has long offered a different perspective. In this episode of Living the Tao (1-170), Master Mikel Steenrod explores an ancient debate that mirrors a surprisingly modern question: the tension between specialization and adaptability. Beginning with a simple evolutionary example of specialist and generalist species, the discussion moves into classical Taoist ideas drawn from the Zhuangzi, including the story of Ding the Butcher and the famous warning of the “useless tree.” These teachings challenge the assumption that usefulness alone defines value. Through this exploration, the episode examines how Confucian and Taoist thinkers approached the role of individuals within society—and why Taoist philosophy ultimately emphasizes balance rather than rigid answers. At different times in life, we may need the discipline of specialization. At other times, we need the freedom and adaptability of the generalist. The real skill lies in knowing when to turn the dial. Listen to the trailer for Episode 170 — Part of One or Part of Many. Join the community to unlock full access to this episode and the complete archive. 🔒 Full episode available on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Are dreams the same thing as spiritual vision? In this episode of Living the Tao Shorts (2-17), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explore the important difference between dreams and Taoist Vision—two experiences that are often confused but arise from very different processes. Dreams largely reflect subconscious activity and mental processing. Taoist Vision, however, emerges through meditation and appears at the boundary between sleep and wakefulness. In this threshold state, perception begins to change and the internal world starts to overlap with the external world. The conversation explores why Vision requires accumulated Qi, why many practitioners experience only brief flashes of it, and why proper training and timing matter in Taoist internal practice. Using vivid metaphors and practical explanations, this short episode offers a glimpse into one of the more advanced concepts within Taoist meditation and perception training.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/bpA-hDlZAko     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Acceptance is often misunderstood. Many people believe it means giving up, surrendering, or resigning themselves to circumstances they cannot change. In reality, acceptance is something very different. In this episode (1-169) of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod and Morgan explore what acceptance really means and why it plays such an important role in both everyday life and deeper spiritual practice. Humans are not purely present-moment creatures. We carry our past experiences with us and constantly project expectations into the future. When those projections fail—when reality does not behave the way we expect—it often creates anxiety, frustration, or resistance. Acceptance is the ability to respond to reality as it actually exists. Through practical examples—from simple daily frustrations to survival situations and life transitions—the discussion examines why acceptance strengthens resilience and allows people to adapt more effectively to change. The episode also explores how resistance to reality can trap people in patterns that weaken their ability to move forward. Topics discussed include: • Why acceptance is not surrender • How expectations about the future create anxiety • The role of past experience in shaping perception • Why people sometimes struggle to accept success or change • The connection between acceptance and resilience • Acceptance as a foundational Taoist practice Acceptance is not passive. It is a skill that allows a person to respond clearly, adapt quickly, and continue moving forward—even when circumstances are difficult or unexpected.     🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/RnXn_V9ou2M   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

In this episode (1-168), Master Mikel Steenrod explores one of the most misunderstood components of the Four Ascendant Tradition model: the Martial Body Sphere. In the ancient world, travel meant risk. Banditry was common. Central authority was distant. Periods of famine and collapse brought about cannibalism. In such an environment, physical capability was not recreational — it was necessary. Why were classical moral figures trained in martial disciplines? What did it mean to be “capable” in unstable eras? And why does Taoism refuse to separate the body from spiritual development? This episode examines how martial training historically functioned as survival infrastructure — and how the development of the body supports liberation rather than distracting from it. “You are your body.” If the body fails, clarity narrows. If health collapses, spiritual work becomes fragile. The Martial Body Sphere reframes strength, vitality, and longevity as foundational elements of the path. Available exclusively to Living the Tao subscribers. Join the community to unlock full access to this episode and the complete archive. 🔒 Full episode available on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Are Chinese herbs working because of chemistry… or because of Qi? In this episode of Living the Tao Shorts, Daoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores the difference between nutritional value and essence value — and why two foods that look identical on a label may affect your energy very differently. You’ll hear: How Qi is absorbed from both food and environment Why some herbs function biochemically like natural drugs What “essence” means in Taoist herbal theory Why heavily processed foods may leave you energetically depleted A revealing college-era story about calorie intake vs vitality This short bridges classical Taoist herbalism with modern physiology without dismissing either perspective. If you’re interested in Qi cultivation, organic food, energy building, or understanding how Chinese herbs really work, this episode offers a clear and grounded framework. Listen, reflect, and reconsider what you’re actually feeding.   Do you want more information on the intersection of nutrition and qi?  Try our site here:  https://www.watermountainvirtual.com/qi-gong-nutrition/ 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/O_WQY0zfQHM     Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

What is power? In this episode (1-167) of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod challenges the modern assumption that power means dominance or control. Instead, he reframes power as something far more fundamental: the ability to make a decision and see it reach fruition. This teaching focuses on the first of the Four Ascendant Spheres — the Social Sphere — the domain of language, persuasion, money, politics, and what classical Daoists referred to as the “red dust.” Why does poetry move people more than reason? Why does external spiritual identity fail to create real transformation? And how does one move from the illusion-dense realm of talk into deeper spiritual development? This is a subscriber-only doctrinal episode. Hear the full teaching on Supercast.   🔒 Full episode available on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

I Ching Dyad: Beginning and Folly Subscriber Episode Preview Most failures don’t happen at the end. They happen at the beginning. In this preview of a subscriber-only episode, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod examines two closely linked hexagrams from the I Ching: Difficulty at the Beginning and Youthful Folly. These two states describe what happens when structure is trying to form — and when we don’t yet understand what we’re dealing with. In the full episode, he explores: The two ways a beginning collapses Why impatience destroys emerging order The difference between chaos and ignorance Why changing lines indicate pressure, not simple prediction This trailer offers a glimpse into the deeper structural analysis available to subscribers. 🔒 Full episode available on Supercast.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

We’re often told to “think for ourselves.” But what if that’s only half the story? In this Living the Tao Short (2-15), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores a deeper and often forgotten form of freedom: learning to feel for yourself. Drawing from Taoist practice and ancient cultural understandings of purpose, this short looks at how joy, harmony, and meaningful relationships emerge when the internal relationship with the self comes into balance. Rather than being shaped by pain, habit, or expectation, Taoist practice offers a way to re-craft the self—beyond conflict and toward quiet enjoyment of life. This episode touches on: Why internal harmony matters more than constant self-analysis How pain shapes identity—and how transformation goes beyond healing The Taoist view of joy, embodiment, and emotional authority Why feeling was once considered central to human existence A short reflection on joy, transformation, and the art of living. 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/YTLhTcinOYc   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Are good and evil moral absolutes — or are they something else entirely? In this episode (1-165) of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod presents the Daoist view of good, evil, and neutrality as energetic positions, not moral judgments. Rather than focusing on right and wrong, Daoism examines how actions affect energy, probability, and personal power. This conversation explores why Daoism was never designed as a social or moral control system, how karma functions energetically rather than morally, and why neutrality may offer the greatest potential for influence and change. Topics include: The Daoist rejection of moral hierarchy Why judgment creates false polarities How karma actually works in classical Daoism Why destruction releases energy faster than creation The role of neutrality in spiritual cultivation How Qi Gong relates to energy outside moral frameworks This episode is ideal for listeners interested in Taoism, spirituality, philosophy, and anyone questioning traditional good-versus-evil thinking.     🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/zwhATqB4JJs   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

In this trailer for Living the Tao – Episode 1-164, Mikel Steenrod introduces a traditional Taoist mind-training drill drawn from the oral tradition. The exercise begins with a simple image: a group of people seated comfortably around a table, discussing what the outdoors is like. A door stands nearby. Everyone knows it leads outside. Anyone could open it. Yet no one does. From this setup emerges a deeper exploration of comfort, consensus, direct experience, and why truth is often discussed rather than encountered. This episode does not offer conclusions or doctrine. Instead, it presents a tool—one designed to be revisited, examined, and experienced over time. The full episode is available exclusively to subscribers.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Many cultures have a tradition of the vision quest. In Taoism, a related practice is known as Biguan. In this short episode of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod explains Biguan as a retreat from the social mind—the accumulated pressure of identity, expectations, and unconscious influence often described metaphorically as “red dust.” This is not an extreme or monastic practice. Biguan, especially for lay practitioners, is about withdrawing from influence without abandoning life. Even small, intentional separations can restore clarity and help us choose what we bring back into daily living. A concise reflection on identity, clarity, and returning to the world with awareness.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/DJNUwT88TLk   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

In this trailer for Living the Tao (1-163), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod introduces a subscriber-only episode on lay talismanic practice—what it is, why it exists in Taoism, and where its real limits are. Talismans were never meant as superstition or shortcuts. They developed as practical tools for people who do not possess the energetic capacity to act directly on reality, and who are not part of priestly or sectarian systems. In this episode, Steenrod explains how lay talismanic work fits within Taoist tradition, why a dedicated altar matters, how invocation binds energy, and what can responsibly be done at the folk level. No secret registers. No initiations. No fantasy explanations. The full episode, Making Talismans for the Lay Person, is available exclusively to subscribers.  Subscribe now at  https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

What is the best mood? In this subscriber-only episode of Living the Tao, we explore mood not as a virtue or flaw—but as a functional tool that shapes qi, perception, action, and health. Drawing from Taoist practice and Natural Form and Essence Qi Gong, this episode examines three core mood states—joyful, neutral, and disdain—and the specific advantages and limitations of each. Rather than promoting emotional suppression or forced positivity, the discussion focuses on emotional fluidity and the importance of maintaining a healthy, life-supporting baseline. This episode is for listeners who sense that calm alone doesn’t always move life forward—and that emotional extremes, positive or negative, come with hidden costs. 🎧 LTT Episode 1-162 Available subscriber-only 🎧 Full episode available to subscribers on Supercast.  Subscribe now at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

What if reality isn’t about right and wrong — but about how real you actually are? In this Living the Tao Short, we explore the Taoist Ching scale, an ancient framework that measures existence as a balance between reality and symbol. From the Dao as pure, undifferentiated potential, down through gods, dragons, humans, and animals, this scale reveals how power, change, and perception work in Taoist thought. You’ll learn why: Humans were once believed to be more real than they are today Dragons are considered creators and allies of humanity “Illusion” in Taoism doesn’t mean false — it means changeable A short episode with long echoes.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/OLbnDPlDb9w   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Order, Chaos, and Hundun — Subscriber Episode Preview Most discussions of reality frame life as a movement between order and chaos. In Taoist thought, that binary is incomplete. This trailer introduces Hundun—the undifferentiated state that precedes structure itself. Not confusion, not disorder, but the condition from which form emerges. In the full subscriber episode, Master Steenrod explores why periods of uncertainty are not spiritual failure, how premature structure can limit development, and why dissolution often signals return rather than collapse. This is a contemplative, non-technical discussion rooted in early Taoist cosmology and lived practice. There are no exercises or prescriptions—only a reframing of how change actually unfolds. 🔒 This episode is available exclusively to subscribers of Living the Tao.   🎧 Full episode available to subscribers on Supercast.  Subscribe now at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

What does positive power actually mean in Taoism? In this episode (1-160), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explains why positivity is not about denying reality or forcing optimism. Instead, it’s about where you place your attention, how you process experience, and how much failure you can tolerate without giving up. Topics include: Why negativity often feels justified—but limits your life The difference between motivation and long-term damage How childhood conditioning shapes what you focus on The Taoist idea of fail tolerance and endurance Why most people set goals that guarantee failure A practical, no-nonsense discussion of positivity as a trainable skill, not a personality trait.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/0oLwJE07uXY   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Is Daoism something you’re supposed to feel rather than understand? Does talking about it ruin the experience? In this Living the Tao Short (2-12), Master Steenrod examines a common modern belief—that authentic Daoism requires no study, no method, and no examination. He explains where this idea comes from, why it doesn’t hold up historically, and how Daoist development has always depended on effort, method, and choice. Nature can teach—but it isn’t the Dao. And walking away from method comes with consequences.   🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com Access the video form of the episode here: https://youtu.be/DM4Bo0tX_Xo   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

In this subscriber-only episode (1-159) of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod examines a quiet but widespread problem: why clarity, restraint, and spiritual insight seem to disappear when life becomes stressful — even when we understand the teachings. From a Taoist perspective, the issue is not discipline, belief, or willpower. It’s energy. This episode explores how higher thought, ethical behavior, and spiritual stability are energy-dependent states. When qi is depleted, advanced behavior becomes unavailable. Choice narrows. Reactivity replaces agency. What feels like moral or spiritual failure is often an energetic condition. Drawing from classical Taoist understanding — and contrasting it with how many spiritual systems are applied today — this talk reframes struggle without blame and restores a missing sequence: energy first, clarity second. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why low energy collapses higher behavior How modern life quietly drains qi Why many spiritual teachings fail without an energetic foundation How ethics and insight naturally emerge from sufficient energy Why restoring energy must come before higher practice This is not motivational content. It’s structural explanation — intended for listeners ready to examine why understanding alone doesn’t translate into lived stability. 🎧 Full episode available to subscribers on Supercast.  Subscribe now at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Originally released as Episode 10, Poison of Immortality remains one of the most powerful teachings in the Living the Tao archive. In this brief trailer, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod offers a sharp preview of the timeless insights within—on mortality, time, and the path to clarity. If you missed it the first time, or you're ready to revisit it with fresh ears, now is the time. The updated episode now includes a full transcript and study guide for deeper reflection. 🎧 Listen to the full episode at: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com/e/poison-of-immortality-episode-010/ Get the podcast episode, episode guides, and commentary here: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com/ep-10-poison-of-immortality/

Living the Tao — Winter Tales (Subscriber Episode) Winter has long been a season for Taoist storytelling — a time when teachers set aside instruction and let stories do the work. In this short trailer, Master Steenrod introduces a subscriber-only episode(1-158) of Living the Tao built around three traditional winter Taoist tales: a man untouched by cold, a hermit who sits through winter snow, and an immortal who waits calmly as change unfolds. These stories aren’t about endurance or technique. They explore yin, alignment, and the wisdom of not forcing the moment — themes especially relevant as the year comes to a close. 🎧 Full episode available to subscribers on Supercast.  Subscribe now at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Why do Taoist masters fly in legends—but not in real life today? In this Living the Tao Short, Master Mikel Steenrod explores the idea that some extraordinary abilities once attributed to Taoist practitioners depended on conditions that no longer exist. Rather than fantasy, the discussion focuses on history, training, and the Daoist principle of time and place. This short episode separates cinematic myth from classical Daoist understanding, offering a thoughtful look at why certain abilities faded—and what Taoism actually teaches instead. 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Living the Tao – Episode 1-157 (Subscriber Trailer) I Ching Dyad: Following (17) & Repairing What Has Been Spoiled (18) There are times when following an established path leads to success—and times when that same path begins to fail. In this short trailer for a subscriber-only episode of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Michael Steenrod introduces a classical I Ching dyad that frequently appears together: Hexagram 17, Following, and Hexagram 18, Repairing What Has Been Spoiled. Rather than treating the I Ching as symbolic abstraction, this episode explores it as a practical system of pattern recognition. Following is not blind obedience, but an aware alignment with momentum that conserves energy and produces results. Repair becomes necessary when that momentum decays, calling for assessment, effort, and intelligent adaptation. The episode also introduces the “karmic bus driver” metaphor—explaining when it is appropriate to lead, when it is wiser to follow, and when repair or withdrawal is the correct response. This subscriber episode is especially relevant for anyone navigating change in personal practice, leadership, work, or life systems, and clarifies a common misconception: Taoism is not passive surrender—it includes decisive action when conditions call for it. 🎧 Full episode available to subscribers.   Subscribe now at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Why do some people seem to catch every break while others struggle no matter how hard they try? In this free episode (1-156) of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod explains the Taoist view of luck, prosperity, and synchronicity—and why “good fortune” is far more structured than most people realize. You’ll learn: • Why luck isn’t random or a moral reward • How prosperity and abundance actually behave in the world • Why luck “pools” in certain places and around certain people • The difference between luck, karma, and synchronicity (Shi) • How environment shapes your chances more than intention • What Taoism calls the “arts of living” and how they stabilize your life • Why even people with bad behavior can appear intensely lucky This episode blends practical living with classical Taoist insight, offering a grounded, realistic way to understand the “hidden mechanics” shaping everyday life. If you’ve ever wondered why luck feels unfair—or how to position yourself where prosperity naturally gathers—this conversation offers a clear, Taoist-informed answer. The video version of this episode is also available on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Ue1_VvpHmZQ 🎧 Subscribe for full archives and bonus content: https://living-the-tao.supercast.com Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Source: Incompetech.com

What is Taoist power really—and how do you recognize it in your own life? In this episode of Living the Tao Shorts (2-10), Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores De, the form of spiritual power described in the Daodejing. Instead of treating De as serendipity or good luck, Master Steenrod explains how true Taoist practice produces alignment, insight, and direct Dao interaction. Inside this episode: What De actually means in classical Taoism How Taoist “sagecraft” shapes your life and decisions The Four Ascendant triangle of Dao → Teacher → Student Why tiny “signs” aren’t reliable indicators of spiritual growth What creates Dao intrusions—and what they mean for your path Why the Dao responds as if you already know the rules This short episode is ideal for listeners exploring Taoist spirituality, personal transformation, inner alignment, or the deeper teachings behind the Daodejing. The video version of this episode can be found on youtube: https://youtu.be/oI-7InGpQs4 🌐 Explore more Taoist teachings: https://www.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com 🎧 Listen to more Living the Tao Shorts & full episodes: https://podcast.the-taoism-for-modern-world.com   Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com --- Show Notes In this lecture, we explore the concept of 'de' or power in Taoism, as presented in the Tao Te Ching. The discussion centers on what precisely this power signifies and how it manifests in the lives of those who align themselves with the Tao. The lecture delves into the idea of sagecraft, where a sage represents the epitome of being in perfect harmony with the Tao, allowing for both effortless movement within the world and the ability to influence its course. This concept bridges the connection between individual agency and the fundamental laws of the universe, illustrating how actions taken in accord with the Tao can yield significant changes in one's reality. The expansion into serendipity as a minor form of 'de' provides an intriguing framework for understanding how individuals can gauge their alignment with the Tao. Questions arise surrounding the desire for tangible feedback on one's spiritual path, probing whether an increase in serendipitous events could indicate a person’s attunement to the Tao. The discussion acknowledges the human inclination for clear indicators of progress in one’s spiritual journey and how these can manifest in a more tangi

Discover the Taoist meaning behind giving. In this exclusive subscriber-only episode, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores a classic teaching story about generosity, sincerity, and the unseen forces that shape the outcome of every act of giving. In this trailer, you’ll hear a preview of the ideas discussed in the full episode—including why Taoism views gifts as something far deeper than objects exchanged. Whether the offering is grand or humble, the true weight of a gift lies in the intention behind it, and the state of mind of the giver. If you’ve ever wondered why some gestures resonate and others fall flat—even when you mean well—this story sheds light on what really matters. The full episode is available now for subscribers at https://living-the-tao.supercast.com. ✨ What subscribers get: Full access to deep-dive Taoist lessons Exclusive commentary and extended teachings A growing archive of private episodes Early access to new content Join us and step deeper into the path of wisdom.

Step back into one of the most talked-about episodes in the Living the Tao archive. In “Demons and Ghosts Are Real!”, Master Steenrod explains why the Taoist view of ghosts and demons has little to do with Hollywood—and everything to do with emotional residue, intention, and stability of mind. This short trailer revisits the key ideas from the full episode: Why ghosts are often echoes rather than entities How demons operate more like intentional forces Why instability invites problems—and stability shuts them down How to strengthen your qi so nothing finds a way in If you missed this episode when it first aired, or you want a refresher before the next new release, now’s the time. 📘 Full free episode available in the Living the Tao archive.

This is a public preview of Episode 1-154, available exclusively to subscribers. In this short segment, Master Steenrod explains why staying in the wrong situation burns extraordinary amounts of energy. Using the image of “fire under water,” he shows how misalignment drains karmic force, stalls growth, and signals the need for real transformation. If you’ve ever wondered why holding still can feel harder than moving forward, this preview offers a glimpse into a much deeper teaching. Subscribe to unlock the full episode, where we explore: the classical Mandate of Heaven and its modern application the three layers of karma why misalignment consumes ling how transformation restores energetic flow the timing dynamics behind mandated change Members also gain access to the full Living the Tao archive, AMA episodes, Shorts, and exclusive bonus content. Subscribe here → https://living-the-tao.supercast.com

Sensory hygiene is one of the least understood but most powerful tools on the Taoist path. In this short conversation (2-9), Master Steenrod explains how half of self-management comes from managing your inputs — what you see, hear, and absorb from the world around you. You’ll learn how negative events stack to distort perception, why modern life overloads us with emotional variation, and how the Four Ascendant Tradition reframes all of this as conscious crafting of the self. If you’ve ever felt thrown off by your environment, this short will help you understand why — and what to do about it. Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/tohqJIrgVNs 🎧 Subscribe for full archives and bonus content: https://living-the-tao.supercast.com Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

What if the power to change your life didn’t come from force—but from energy, timing, and awareness? In this episode (1-152) of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod unpacks the true meaning of Qi as the bridge between the human and the universal. He explains the Four Spheres of Taoism—Social, Martial, Qi, and Tao—and how each reveals a new level of perception and power. You’ll discover how Qi can dissolve conflict without fighting, why the I Ching teaches the art of timing, and how ancient shamanic dances evolved into the Qigong practices of today. The result is a conversation that blends philosophy, energy, and practical wisdom—showing how to live longer, feel better, and act in harmony with the flow of life. Watch this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/VQ0S4GxZA7Y Explore our full Qi Gong archive — videos, articles, and training resources: https://www.watermountainvirtual.com/blog-for-online-courses/?utm_source=podbean&utm_medium=podcastdescription&utm_campaign=qi_gong_cluster 🎧 Subscribe for full archives and bonus content: https://living-the-tao.supercast.com Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Source: Incompetech.com

What if the power to change your life didn’t come from force—but from energy, timing, and awareness?In this episode (1-152) of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod unpacks the true meaning of Qi as the bridge between the human and the universal. He explains the Four Spheres of Taoism—Social, Martial, Qi, and Tao—and how each reveals a new level of perception and power.You’ll discover how Qi can dissolve conflict without fighting, why the I Ching teaches the art of timing, and how ancient shamanic dances evolved into the Qigong practices of today. The result is a conversation that blends philosophy, energy, and practical wisdom—showing how to live longer, feel better, and act in harmony with the flow of life.Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Source: Incompetech.com

In this short (2-8), Master Steenrod unpacks Taoism’s elusive stance on morality. What happens when a tradition without heaven or hell meets the moral hierarchies of Confucianism and the rituals of Buddhism? Discover how early Taoism resisted becoming a system of control, how politics turned ritual into power, and why “the noodle got spicy” when belief met bureaucracy. It’s a journey through ancient temples, statecraft, and the human need to define right and wrong—told with humor, insight, and unmistakable Taoist calm. 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/eITdXiWz5n8 🎧 Subscribe for full archives and bonus content: https://living-the-tao.supercast.com Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod — licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Source: incompetech.com

Taoism isn’t evangelical — it’s adaptable. In this short, Master Steenrod explains how the tradition has endured for thousands of years by “spicing the noodle”: blending with Buddhism, Confucianism, and even modern science without losing its flavor. Discover why Taoism calls itself a human method, not a divine truth — and how that flexibility keeps it alive in every age. 🎙️ Topics include syncretism, tolerance, resilience, and the enduring Taoist view that real growth begins with personal choice. Watch now on Youtube: https://youtu.be/_vvIRIPv6bM Intro music: “Finding Movement” by Kevin MacLeod, used under CC BY 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Source: incompetech.com