Learn Buddhism with Alan Peto

Alan Peto

Alan Peto hosts an informative and helpful podcast for anyone who is interested in Buddhism and beginning a Buddhist practice. Alan is a Buddhist layperson who explains Buddhism and Buddhist teachings for beginners and Westerners on his website, https://alanpeto.com. This podcast is aimed at helping those exploring Buddhism or new to Buddhism understand Buddhist teachings and practices.

Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Homepage: https://alanpeto.com/podcast
Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/

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#98
Friday · 47 min
98 - The Buddhist Devil?! (DEEP DIVE on Māra)
Does Buddhism have a devil? Not exactly. But it does have Māra. In the first of my "deep-dive" episodes, we explore some of the fascinating stories of Māra found in Buddhist scripture and tradition, from attempts to discourage the Buddha before awakening to encounters that continued long after enlightenment. Through these stories, we’ll see Māra use temptation, fear, doubt, deception, distraction, and even attacks on the Buddha’s disciples. The Māra Saṃyutta alone contains 25 discourses featuring these encounters! We’ll also explore the famous assault beneath the Bodhi Tree, Māra’s daughters, and what these stories can teach us about recognizing the “armies of Māra” in our own Buddhist practice. Is Māra a supernatural being? A symbol for the obstacles to awakening? Or is the Buddhist understanding more nuanced than either explanation alone? Let’s go directly into the stories and teachings to find out. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#97
October 18 · 1 hr 18 min
97 - The Buddhism Secrets of Cats (Audiobook Special Edition)
What if cats are actually secret Buddhist monks? My book, "The Buddhism Secrets of Cats" explores the [fictional?!] hidden world of Buddhist cats and their practices and beliefs. You will also learn some non-fiction information about Buddhism interwoven into the story. I'm excited to read my book for you in this episode! You can also get the paperback on Amazon or the eBook on my website. Read my article that inspired the book: https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-secrets-of-cats/ Learn more about the illustrated book here (and get the eBook and bonus graphics): https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-secrets-of-cats/ Get the paperback on Amazon*: https://link.amazon/B0bOl5ceI Chapters: 00:00:01 Introduction 00:00:30 Chapter 1 - Discovering the Secret Society 00:05:57 Chapter 2 - Bodhipurrma the First Cat Monk 00:10:37 Chapter 3 - The Purring Sutra 00:19:12 Chapter 4 - Purrfectly Meditating 00:23:57 Chapter 5 - The Suffering of the Half Empty Food Bowl 00:27:31 Chapter 6 - Mu! or Meow? 00:31:53 Chapter 7 - Enlightenment at the End of the Laser Pointer 00:39:32 Chapter 8 - The Kitten Eightfold Path 00:49:59 Chapter 9 - Rebirth in the Nine Cat Lives 00:56:40 Chapter 10 - The Ten Kitten Herding Pictures 01:06:18 Chapter 11 - Departing the Cave 01:07:56 Epilogue 01:11:39 Questions and Answers 01:17:05 Thank You for Listening and Copyright and Disclaimers --- Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer * Affiliate link --- This book is Copyright © 2020 by Alan Peto All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (including electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without prior written permission from the author. Requests for permission should be submitted online at https://alanpeto.com/contact ISBN: 978-1-7354003-0-3 (Paperback) ISBN: 978-1-7354003-1-0 (PDF eBook) ISBN: 978-1-7354003-2-7 (MOBI eBook) ASIN: B08D7WQJKP (Kindle eBook) This book is a work of fiction. The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any references or similarities to historical events, real people, or real places are used fictitiously. Other names, characters, places, and events are products of the author's imagination, and any resemblances to actual events or places or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Portions of this book are works of nonfiction related to Buddhism and Buddhist teachings and historical events. Although the author has made every effort to ensure that the information in this book was correct at press time, the author does not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. The Buddhism Secrets of Cats, characters, names, titles, and related indicia are trademarks of Alan Peto. All rights reserved. First Edition July 2020 Published by Alan Peto Visit the author’s website at https://alanpeto.com View the author’s other books at https://alanpeto.com/books
#89
October 4 · 31 min
96 - Emotions & Buddhism
Emotions are, of course, part of being human. We experience emotions like anger, anxiety, fear, sadness, loneliness, frustration. But why do they feel so powerful? And why do they sometimes lead to suffering? In this episode, we explore emotions through the lens of Buddhism. The Buddha taught that our emotional life arises from causes and conditions (dependent origination), shaped by impermanence, craving, clinging, and the Three Fires (Poisons) of greed, hatred, and ignorance. When these forces are present, emotions can overwhelm us. When we understand them, they become 'workable'. We’ll look at how emotions form, how they intensify, and how karma creates emotional habits that repeat themselves. More importantly, we’ll explore how mindfulness, wisdom, compassion, and not‑self help us meet emotions with clarity instead of reactivity. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your feelings, this Buddhist perspective may bring insight, relief, and a sense of peace. Note: This episode is not medical advice, but instead only about the Buddhist religious understanding and teachings about emotions. You should always consult with a qualified medical professional. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#95
September 21 · 42 min
95 - What is Suffering (Dukkha) in Buddhism
Why do we suffer? Why does life feel painful, stressful, or disappointing even when things seem to be going well? In this episode, we explore suffering from a practical Buddhist perspective not as a concept, but as a lived human experience. Sometimes referred to as 'suffering' in the West, 'Dukkha' has a much deeper range and significance. Drawing from the Buddha’s core insights into impermanence, dependent origination, the Three Poisons/Fires, karma, and rebirth, we look at how suffering arises, why we add extra layers of pain through craving and clinging, and what the Buddhist path offers as a way to understand and transform it. This episode is not a repeat of our discussion on dukkha. Instead, it’s a grounded, compassionate look at the reality of suffering and the hope the Buddha offered: suffering has causes, and those causes can be understood and released. Read the Article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/understanding-dukkha/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#94
August 21 · 33 min
94 - Engaged Buddhism
"Engaged Buddhism" is Buddhism lived in the world through compassion in action, wisdom applied to real life, and mindfulness extended beyond the meditation cushion! In this episode, we explore how Engaged Buddhism developed from the Buddha’s own teachings and practices 2,600 years ago, and then through the reform movement of Venerable Taixu and Humanistic Buddhism, to Thich Nhat Hanh’s modern mindfulness‑in‑action approach and the 14 Mindfulness Trainings of the Order of Interbeing that were created during the Vietnam war. We also look at Master Hsing Yun’s global humanitarian work with Fo Guang Shan, showing how Engaged Buddhism can be both deeply personal and profoundly communal. This is a great episode if you have heard of 'Engaged Buddhism' before and are wondering how your Buddhist practice can help respond to suffering, support our communities, and live the Bodhisattva ideal in everyday life. 📖 Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/engaged-buddhism-buddhist/ More about Ven. Thich Nhat Hanh: https://plumvillage.org/about/thich-nhat-hanh/biography More about Ven. Master Hsing Yun: https://hsingyun.org/bio/index.php Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#93
July 25 · 1 hr 15 min
93 - Buddhism in 10 Steps (Audiobook Special Edition)
This episode is the full audiobook reading of my book Buddhism in 10 Steps. Many of you have already listened to the shorter podcast/video version, which offered a quick overview of the ten foundational steps. This episode is different — it’s the complete, long‑form narration of the actual book. If you prefer listening over reading, or you enjoy deeper, uninterrupted explanations, this audiobook version is for you. It walks through each step (topic) with more detail, context, and guidance than the condensed episode, making it a great companion for new Buddhists, curious listeners, or anyone wanting a clearer path into Buddhist practice. You can also find the book and eBook here: alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps/ or BuddhismStarterPack.com Settle in, relax, and enjoy the full journey through the ten steps! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#92
July 19 · 32 min
92 - Buddhist Symbols & Symbolism
In this episode, we explore the beautiful world of Buddhist symbols — the dragons, lotus flowers, prayer flags, mandalas, guardian lions, and more that fill temples and artwork across Asia. These symbols aren’t just decoration; they’re teaching tools that help us understand compassion, wisdom, karma, and enlightenment in simple, visual ways. If you’re new to Buddhism, this episode will give you a warm, accessible introduction to the Dharma you can see. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#91
May 29 · 29 min
91 - Was the Buddha Always a Buddha? (The Lotus Sutra's Chapter 16)
In this episode, we explore one of the most surprising teachings in the Lotus Sūtra: the idea that the Buddha didn’t become a Buddha under the Bodhi tree, but awakened countless ages ago. His birth, enlightenment, and even his passing are presented as skillful means and are compassionate appearances meant to guide us, not limits on who he is. This teaching reminds us that awakening / enlightenment isn’t distant or rare. It’s timeless, ever‑present, and something we can uncover in ourselves right now. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#90
May 1 · 42 min
90 - Science & Buddhism
Many Westerners are drawn to Buddhism because it feels rational, experiential, and compatible with science. But Buddhism also includes teachings—like karma, rebirth, and cosmology—that don’t fit neatly into a scientific framework. So how do these pieces fit together? In this episode, we explore why Western culture often wants Buddhism to be “scientific,” what the Buddha actually taught about direct experience in the Kālāma Sutta, and why Buddhism still includes a healthy form of confidence (saddhā) rather than blind belief. We also look at where Buddhism and science genuinely overlap, where they don’t, and how to approach teachings that can’t be tested in a laboratory. Using a clear analogy from medicine—where we often trust what works long before we understand how it works—we examine why unprovable teachings like rebirth aren’t dismissed in Buddhism, and why the tradition encourages open‑minded investigation rather than rigid belief or rigid skepticism. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#39
April 17 · 40 min
89 - Chanting, Recitation, Mantras, and Dhāraṇīs in Buddhism
Chanting is one of the most widespread Buddhist practices, yet often one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we explore what chanting really is, how sound plays an important role in Buddhist practice, and how chanting developed from the early oral tradition. You’ll learn how chanting is used in both Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhism, what dhāraṇīs are (and why you’ve probably heard them before), and why traditional languages like Pāli and Sanskrit matter—even if you don’t understand every word. We’ll also look at popular chants across traditions and offer simple ways to start chanting, especially if you're hesitant or unsure. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#88
April 3 · 32 min
88 - The Buddha's Death & Parinirvana
The Buddha’s Last Teaching: Impermanence & Parinirvāṇa In this episode, we explore one of the most meaningful and human moments in all of Buddhism: the Buddha’s final days, his final teachings, and what his parinirvāṇa (his final passing or 'final Nirvana') really means for us today. We’ll walk through the Buddha’s last journey to Kuśinagara, the touching conversations he had with Ānanda, and the Saṅgha, and the powerful guidance he offered even while facing the end of his life. His final message, which is that all conditioned things are impermanent, and that we must strive with diligence, becomes a living reminder of how to practice right now, in our everyday lives. You’ll also learn how Theravada and Mahayana understand parinirvāṇa. For example, Theravāda emphasizes the historical Buddha’s final passing and the importance of the Dharma as our guide. In contrast, Mahāyāna adds the perspective of the Buddha’s three bodies (trikāya) and explains why awakened bodhisattvas attain nirvāṇa but choose not to enter parinirvāṇa, remaining in the world out of compassion for all beings. This episode is both a teaching and a reflection. It's an invitation to look closely at impermanence, to appreciate the preciousness of this moment, and to carry the Buddha’s final encouragement into your own practice. Contact Alan: ⁠alanpeto.com/contact⁠ Podcast Homepage: ⁠alanpeto.com/podcast⁠ Podcast Disclaimer: ⁠alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer⁠
S87 · E87
March 13 · 30 min
87 - Ten Basic Buddhism Concepts (Buddhism in 10 Steps)
What is Buddhism? This podcast episode covers ten basic Buddhist concepts and also has a video! It's a companion to my book, Buddhism in 10 Steps, that I co-wrote with Buddhist monk Sanathavihari Bhikkhu. I originally recorded this video for YouTube and thought it would be a great addition to the Learn Buddhism podcast. If you've been listening to all my episodes, some of this might sound familiar (and that's good!). You can watch a VIDEO for this episode on Spotify, or if you are on another platform, check it out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cn9GlUomlzU?si=UaE96U-c6KPQP9r4. You can also download the FREE eBook, Buddhism in 10 Steps, on my website by going to my Buddhism Starter Pack page! https://BuddhismStarterPack.com. Tell a friend! Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 0:32 What is Buddhism (1) 4:52 Who was the Buddha? (2) 7:47 What did the Buddha Teach? (3) 12:12 Four Noble Truths (4) 16:09 Noble Eightfold Path (5) 18:31 Dependent Origination (6) 22:02 Karma (7) 23:51 Not Self (8) 26:19 Rebirth (9) 28:49 Nirvana (10) Get the Book: https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps or https://BuddhismStarterPack.com Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
January 23 · 51 min
86 - After You Die...What Buddhists Believe About Life After Death
What do Buddhists believe happens after death? In this episode, we explore one of the most common and meaningful questions beginners ask about Buddhism. Rather than offering a single doctrine, Buddhism presents a clear process shaped by karma, mental habits, and the continuity of causes and conditions. You’ll learn how different Buddhist traditions understand death, rebirth, and the transition between lives: Theravada: the importance of the final mind state, wholesome actions, and merit transfer Pure Land: the role of Amitābha Buddha, nianfo chanting, and rebirth in the Pure Land Ch’an/Zen: clarity, non‑attachment, and approaching death as another moment of practice Tibetan Buddhism: the bardo teachings, phowa, and rituals that guide consciousness We also look at merit and merit dedication, why families generate merit for the deceased, and how these practices support a peaceful transition and favorable rebirth. Whether you’re new to Buddhism or deepening your understanding, this episode offers a clear, compassionate guide to how Buddhists view death — and what these teachings reveal about living with wisdom and intention. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/understanding-reincarnation-rebirth/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#85
Nov 21, 2025 · 31 min
85 - The Six Paramitas (Perfections)
In this episode, we explore the Six Paramitas, the “perfections” that form the gradual training path of a Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism. From generosity and ethical discipline to patience, joyful effort, concentration, and wisdom, each Paramita is both a practice and an antidote to the obstacles that keep us bound to suffering. We look at how the Paramitas align with the Eightfold Path, why Mahayana emphasizes them as the Bodhisattva’s toolkit, and how they embody the vow to liberate all beings before oneself. Along the way, we uncover what these perfections mean in daily life and how anyone can begin applying them, not as distant ideals but as practical steps toward compassion, clarity, and transformation. By the end, you will see how the Six Paramitas offer a gradual, cumulative path, a way to cultivate enlightened qualities step by step while carrying others with you across the shore of liberation. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#84
Oct 3, 2025 · 48 min
84 - Bodhisattvas
Bodhisattvas can be found in both Theravada and Mahayana branches of Buddhism. In Mahayana they take on a larger role where practitioners take on the path of the Bodhisattva towards helping all sentient beings and make up a core reason that Mahayana exists. Learn more about Bodhisattvas (and learn about two big VIP Bodhisattvas) in this episode! Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/bodhisattva-path/ Get my Bodhisattva graphic: https://alanpeto.com/graphics Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#83
Aug 29, 2025 · 23 min
83 - Twelve Links of Dependent Origination in Buddhism
What did the Buddha become "awakened" to? It was the twelve links of dependent origination! This is one of the most important concepts and teachings in Buddhism because all our Buddhist traditions and practices arise from it (and to liberating ourselves from it). Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OCNnti-NAQ Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#82
Aug 8, 2025 · 28 min
82 - Pure Lands & Pure Land Buddhism
One of the most popular and widely practiced forms of Buddhism revolves around "Pure Lands". The ever popular Western Pure Land and Buddha Amitabha are the ones most people practice in with Buddhism. Learn more about this important and popular Buddhist practice and tradition. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhist-cosmology/Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxZ-CoGk6Wk Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#81
Aug 1, 2025 · 34 min
81 - Buddhism Q&A #5
In this episode, I answer questions from listeners about Buddhism and Buddhist practice! Chapters: 00:01 Introduction 00:28 "I always struggle to continue my practice. I am active for six months then loose interest." 08:37 "Karma. If anything bad happens to a child are we saying that child was bad in past life?" 13:23 "How would a catholic and Buddhist raise their child? Can a catholic be a Buddhist too" 22:00 "As a buddhist I get asked "who do buddhist believe created the world if there's no god" 27:00 "If there is no self, how does the Tulku system work? Is this advanced store consciousness?" 30:37 "I've heard the ides of "non attachment" a lot in Buddhist practice. But how does that work in relationships or goals?" Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#80
Jun 3, 2025 · 25 min
80 - Meat Eating in Buddhism
Can you eat animal meat as a Buddhist? Do you have to be vegetarian? This is a common question and debate. Learn more in this episode! Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/animals-in-buddhism/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
#79
May 27, 2025 · 28 min
79 - Love and Marriage in Buddhism
Can a Buddhist be in a romantic relationship? Married? What about the love we have for family and friends? Learn more about it in this episode! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer

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