Elephant Journal: Walk the Talk Show with Waylon Lewis
Religion & Spirituality
About
Walk the Talk Show with Waylon Lewis about walking our talk—every day, in every moment. It ain't about being perfect. Waylon Lewis, founder of Elephant Journal, talks about everyday Buddhism, meditation, eco-actions large and small, and features conversations with leading mindful thought leaders, both famous and overlooked.
Episodes
- 317. Ideas for a *Mindful* Mother's Day from & for our caring Community.
Waylon Lewis discusses community-inspired Mother's Day ideas on the Walk the Talk Show. The episode includes celebrating mothers and Mother Earth.
- 316. The Whole Alpha Male Movement is Built on this Lie.
Waylon Lewis explores the origins of the "alpha male" concept, revealing it to be based on a misunderstanding that has led to false beliefs about masculinity. He suggests true masculinity involves taking responsibility, apologizing, and ki…
- 315. As you Grow Older, you'll realize a Few Things.
Waylon Lewis speaks with the Elephant community about the realities of aging, contrasting childhood ideals with adult experiences. He also provides advice for younger individuals facing cynicism and ethical concerns.
- 314. (You say you wanna Revolution) Stop Doing This.
Waylon Lewis explores April Fools' Day as a significant holiday and discusses the concept of 'selling out' to The Man and Big Tech, questioning if the community truly 'walks the talk'.
- 313. Peaceful Protest: Let's Protect our Democracy.
Waylon Lewis talks with the Elephant community about "No Kings Day" on March 28th, 2026, encouraging listeners to support journalism and join peaceful protests to protect democracy. The show's editor will attend the event in St. Paul.
- 312. "It's Okay to be Angry & Still be a Buddhist." Discuss.
Waylon Lewis and Molly discuss the validity of feeling anger from a Buddhist perspective. The episode explores how to process current events and anger, addressing the idea that it's acceptable to be angry and still follow Buddhist teaching…
- 311. I asked Pema Chodron how we should prepare our Daughter for a Wild World.
Waylon Lewis of Elephant Journal's Walk the Talk Show had the opportunity to ask Buddhist teacher Pema Chodron how to prepare a daughter for a wild world. This discussion, also involving Willa and Kelsey, explored the practical and surpris…
- 310. It Doesn't Matter if we're Good to Mother Nature!
Waylon Lewis posits that the climate crisis is irrelevant due to individual mortality, suggesting that even if it were real, it wouldn't matter to him personally as he would be deceased.
- 309. 3 things to (un)do Right Now if you're Burned Out.
In episode 309, Waylon Lewis addresses burnout experienced by many in U.S. cities due to constant political and social stressors. He shares a Buddhist viewpoint and suggests three actions to help alleviate burnout.
- 308. A Novel for this Moment: Waylon w/ Jeff Fulmer, Author of "The Two Prophets."
In this episode, Waylon Lewis speaks with author Jeff Fulmer about his book, "The Two Prophets." The discussion focuses on how the novel serves as a tool for readers to digest and engage with contemporary events in an enjoyable and adventu…
- 307. Last Year...Sucked. Get Ready: The Year of the Fire Horse is nearly here. (Feng Shui expert Anjie Cho w/Waylon Lewis).
Feng shui expert Anjie Cho discusses the difficulties of the past year with Waylon Lewis and advises on how to transition into the Year of the Fire Horse by reflecting on what has transformed and setting intentions for growth.
- 306. Bridging the Gap Between Positivity & Reality.
Waylon Lewis explores how the pursuit of constant positivity can lead to withdrawal from reality. He suggests that accepting reality with courage and vulnerability allows for better understanding and a more proactive, helpful approach to c…
- 305. If you care about your children…you'd better care about This.
In this episode, Waylon Lewis shares insights on new fatherhood and emphasizes the urgent need for a habitable planet for children. He suggests taking small, mindful actions daily and adopting a non-religious Buddhist approach of self-kind…
- 304. "They want you to feel Powerless. You're not." ~ Waylon Lewis
Waylon Lewis continues the theme of reclaiming power, addressing the Elephant community. He argues that despite feelings of powerlessness, individuals possess the power to inspire or cause distress, and collective action is significant.
- 303. What *you* can do to Help in the Age of Trump.
Waylon Lewis addresses the Elephant community on leveraging collective power for positive action during the Trump era. He urges individuals to reclaim personal agency and focus on spreading love and healing.
- 302. Is this democracy that we're feeling?
Waylon Lewis converses with the Elephant community about the 2025 election and the practical application of small-d democracy. The discussion references recent election outcomes as a positive sign for public servants and a step away from c…
- 301. How to deal with Crazy Family (who you Love).
Episode 301 of the Elephant Journal: Walk the Talk Show with Waylon Lewis discusses navigating difficult family relationships. It suggests a mindful approach, focusing on self-awareness and openness as a form of meditation and practice.
- 300. What should you look for in your Coffee?
Waylon Lewis interviews Danny Walsh, founder of Peak State Coffee, discussing how to evaluate coffee for quality, flavor, cost, and ethical sourcing. Walsh emphasizes the importance of supporting eco-friendly and sustainable coffee compani…
- 299. A Buddhist Teaching for when Everything's Awful.
In episode 299, Waylon Lewis shares a Buddhist teaching on impermanence, offering a perspective for difficult times. He explains that recognizing the lack of solidity and interconnectedness can foster environmental awareness and a broader…
- 298. How to Make a Decision (a little Buddhist Tip).
Waylon Lewis shares a Buddhist method for making decisions, applicable to both large and small life choices. The episode references the concept of 'don't-know mind' and suggests reading Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind.
- 297. How to be truly Christian—from a Heathen who loved his Sunday School.
This episode examines the core message of Christianity, emphasizing Jesus' teachings on compassion. It contrasts this with contemporary discussions surrounding the Rapture, suggesting that many current interpretations miss the original poi…
- 296. One of my life heroes just died What was your favorite Robert Redford movie?
Waylon Lewis pays tribute to Robert Redford, remembering him as a life hero and an iconoclast who exemplified humor, strength, kindness, and integrity. The episode encourages listeners to share their favorite Robert Redford movies.
- 295. The Buddhist Approach to Stress & Anxiety.
In episode 295, Waylon Lewis explores the Buddhist approach to everyday stress and anxiety, defining laziness as a counterproductive reaction to busyness from a Buddhist viewpoint.
- 294. Plastic is Spooky!
Host Waylon Lewis wishes for a Halloween celebration free from plastic waste, encouraging a mindful approach that does not teach children that excessive consumption is acceptable.
- 293. Don't let them Normalize Gun Violence.
Waylon Lewis addresses the desire for safety and a healthy planet, contrasting it with actions that support harmful corporations and politicians. He emphasizes the need to "walk the talk" and move beyond mere thoughts and prayers to enact…
- 292. Let Love be Love be Love.
In episode 292, Waylon Lewis advocates for love, emphasizing its role in individual happiness and societal stability, particularly in light of political challenges to gay marriage rights.
- 291. Tough Time getting Motivated? Don't do what you normally do.
Waylon Lewis shares a Buddhist-inspired tip for overcoming motivation struggles. Instead of pushing through, he suggests taking a break to do something enjoyable or kind before returning to tasks with renewed purpose.
- 290. 4 Ways to Clean your Mind.
In episode 290, Waylon Lewis outlines four methods, plus a bonus fifth, to help listeners clean their minds. He clarifies that cleaning the mind means returning to one's basic human goodness, not striving for purity.
- 289. Why Superman is not only Timely but "Buddhist."
In this episode, Waylon Lewis discusses Superman as an ideal Buddhist hero. He highlights Superman's kindness, use of strength for protection, and vulnerability as positive examples relevant today.
- 288. So…we're pregnant. (Mostly Kelsey) ~ Waylon
Waylon Lewis announces that he and Kelsey are expecting a baby. He notes that friends, family, and their dog Winnie are aware of the pregnancy. Lewis shared that he felt the baby move for the first time on Father's Day.
- 287. "It Irritates me when Boomers say 'The Next Generation…'"
Waylon Lewis discusses the responsibility all generations have to invest in kindness, honesty, and planet-saving actions. He critiques the notion that the next generation will solve problems created by previous ones, viewing it as a lack o…
- 286. How can an open heart be an asset in scary times?
On the Elephant Journal: Walk the Talk Show, Waylon Lewis explores the value of maintaining an open heart during difficult periods. He defines true richness not by wealth, but by a society where everyone feels secure and experiences joy.
- 285. A full-hearted Father's Day to Fathers who Grow.
In this episode, Waylon Lewis explores the complexities of familial relationships, particularly concerning Father's Day. He emphasizes the value of respectful honesty, both with oneself and loved ones, and suggests that challenging relatio…
- 284. Don't let them own our Flag.
Waylon Lewis on the Elephant Journal: Walk the Talk Show discusses democracy, independent media, and the core value of caring. Lewis addresses criticism regarding patriotism, emphasizing a love for country rooted in honesty and respect for…
- 283. When the World is Hard, but the Heart is Soft.
Waylon Lewis explores Buddhism and sadness, discussing how a kind heart, even when wounded by aggression, can contribute to a more compassionate and enlightened society.
- 282. Anyone who's been unconditionally Kind in your Life: Mother's Day is for them.
Waylon Lewis, joined by his mother Linda and wife Kelsey, reflects on Mother's Day and motherhood. They explore Buddhist perspectives on the subject and the Tonglen meditation practice, sharing personal stories and thoughts on unconditiona…
- 281. Moving is utterly catatonically exhausting. Why?!
Waylon Lewis discusses the extreme exhaustion that moving causes. He shares perspectives from friends and his own theory, likening the mental fatigue to that experienced when concentrating deeply during a museum exhibition.
- 280. In Defense of "Stuff."
While moving, Waylon Lewis considers the meaning of "stuff," differentiating between items of genuine appreciation and disposable "crap." He suggests that cherished possessions gain inherent richness through use, care, and love, contributi…
- 279. What to do when you're Overwhelmed.
Waylon Lewis addresses feelings of overwhelm from various sources like news, relationships, and stress. He suggests that overwhelm is essentially a lack of oxygen and explains that true Dharma or expertise originates from outside the ego.
- 278. Not Hoarding, but: Top 10 Mindful Buys before Tariff Prices Hit.
Waylon Lewis addresses listeners in the United States about making mindful purchasing choices as tariffs may increase prices. He suggests preparing smartly and engaging with the community, rather than panicking.
- 277. What's the Buddhist practice of Right Speech in the Face of Hate & Lies?
Waylon Lewis discusses the Buddhist practice of Right Speech, questioning how to apply it when confronting hate, greed, and lies. He suggests that honesty and frankness are necessary, and that failing to challenge harmful speech, such as h…
- 276. Don't Depend on Billionaire-controlled Media.
Waylon Lewis expresses concern that billionaire-controlled social media platforms could restrict communication, suggesting a need to invest in community and non-social media connections.
- 275. A Sweet Message to MAHA.
In episode 275 of the Walk the Talk Show, host Waylon Lewis addresses MAHA, a political platform linked to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Lewis expresses significant anger and resentment towards MAHA, stating it's a feeling he wishes to share openl…
- 274. We can do this together. Things can get easier. Keep caring.
Waylon Lewis on the Elephant Journal's Walk the Talk Show connects mindfulness and compassion to political engagement. He suggests that genuine caring is an inexhaustible resource that can simplify challenges, contrasting it with ego-drive…
- 273. The Buddhist Notion of Groundlessness (is Actually Good News).
Waylon Lewis discusses the Buddhist concept of groundlessness, noting that while it sounds negative, it can be positive news. The episode touches on how people react to feeling lost or confused and the Buddhist practice of finding ground.
- 272. What to do when we're Feeling Blue—from a Buddhist Point of View.
Waylon Lewis shares practical Buddhist advice for dealing with blues and depression. He suggests connecting with nature, intentional breathing through activities like walking or biking, and consciously avoiding habitual negative thought pa…
- 271. Feng Shui your Love Life: Waylon & Kelsey Lewis w/ Anjie Cho.
Mindful feng shui expert Anjie Cho joins Waylon and Kelsey Lewis to discuss applying mindfulness, Buddhism, and feng shui principles to awaken love lives. Cho provides specific advice for couples and actionable tips for singles seeking a p…
- 270. I'll support Trump tomorrow! (If) ~ Waylon
Waylon Lewis stated he would support President Trump if Trump's actions and rhetoric changed to emphasize kindness and care for humans, animals, and the planet.
- 269. On MLK day, Trump's Inauguration, & the greed of Social Media platforms.
On January 20th, 2025, Waylon Lewis reflects on the historical day, highlighting the pain and significance of it coinciding with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and the ongoing journey for the country.
- 268. If you're feeling Numb as Trump becomes President, again.
Waylon Lewis addresses the common feeling of numbness that can accompany political shifts, like presidential elections. He provides advice on constructive actions and self-care during such times.