Men Talking Mindfulness
How Mindfulness Helped Dave Smith Overcome Addiction
Episode notes
What happens when a rock musician battling addiction discovers mindfulness at 18?
Dave Smith shares his raw journey from personal tragedy and self-destruction to the clarity of 90-day meditation retreats. We break down common misconceptions about meditation, the power of emotional intelligence, and the challenge of confronting our inner selves. Dave opens up about his struggles with self-loathing, the path to sobriety, and how mindfulness helped him navigate suffering and self-discovery. Whether you're new to meditation or deepening your practice, this conversation offers powerful insights on finding peace within.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
01:05 - Virtual Meditation Course Announcement
02:27 - Grounding Practice
03:12 - Dave's First Experience with Meditation
07:08 - The Awakening Moment
12:04 - Emotional Intelligence and Mindfulness
17:06 - Cultivating a Meaningful Life
21:13 - Understanding Dharma
23:56 - Mindfulness Beyond Buddhism
26:03 - Mindfulness as a Tool
29:10 - Overcoming the Fear of Meditation
30:56 - The Challenge of Inner Awareness
39:17 - Faith and Trust in the Process
40:56 - Building Capacity for Presence
43:33 - The Risks of Deep Meditation