Dao with Ian Felton

Dive into a fresh, unscripted conversation with psychotherapist‑and‑Daoist practitioner Ian Felton as he explores Chapter 2 of the Daodejing (the classic Daoist text). In this episode Ian:Reads the original Chinese verses and his own literal translation, then offers a poetic rendering that captures the spirit of the passage. Unpacks the core ideas of the chapter—how beauty and ugliness, morality a...

What the heck is Daoism and why should I care? "I don't know," is the answer to both, but we're going to explore this ancient text anyway. This episode introduces the history of Daodejing before exploring the first chapter. We cross-examine it with other translations before diving into its mysterious depths. I provide some simple practices to take away to start walking the path of a Daoist with mo...

In this episode, we bring closure to our podcast. Note: The podcast was rebooted with a new format on 2/19/2026. Please check out the new episodes.

Chapter 25 of Daodejing is about cycles and the relationships between various powers within existence. David and Ian talk about what cycles we are are in currently and whether or not humanity is being responsible with the power they have.

Chapter 24 of Daodejing is about balance. We discuss how to try to keep it in a chaotic world.

We're talking about chapter 23 of Daodejing and its theme of letting go and acceptance. We talk about how letting go of toxic emotions creates the space necessary to let in nourishment and psychological wellbeing.

In this episode, we explore the role of dialectics in understanding existence, inspired by the Dao De Jing and the life of Gao Yaojie. We examine the character '则' (zé) from Laozi's era, its significance in conveying dialectical ideas, and its modern-day implications. Delving into Laozi's teachings, such as "bending to remain unbroken," we draw parallels with other philosophical traditions and of...

In this profound episode, we delve into the essence of Dao De Jing's Chapter 21, exploring the elusive and mysterious nature of the Dao. Ian shares a personal experience of awakening to deep compassion, illustrating how understanding the intangibility of Dao leads to a profound realization of the insignificance of self and the importance of kindness. As we navigate the paradoxes of life and the Ta...

In this episode of 'Walking the Timeless Way,' we're joined by Dr. Joseph K. Kim, a renowned third-generation Eastern medicine practitioner and author, specializing in Sasang Medicine. Dr. Kim shares insights into the I Ching's principles and their application in both personal and global contexts, drawing connections between Eastern medical philosophies and Taoist wisdom.

Explore the depths of Chapter 20 from the Daodejing. Delve into the sage's views on wisdom, detachment, and leadership, and see how these ancient teachings resonate in our modern, complex era.

We delve deep into Chapter 19 of the Daodejing, exploring Laozi's call to abandon societal pretenses and return to a life of simplicity. We discuss the implications of embracing plainness, the dangers of idolizing ordinary individuals, and the perils of attaching oneself too closely to ideologies. Join us as we journey back to rediscover the essence of true living.

In this episode, we delve deep into Daodejing Chapter 18, discussing the consequences of a society disconnected from the great Dao. We shed light on the rise of hypocrisy and the unsettling state of cardinal relationships. Together, we explore how to find solace and live in harmony with the Dao amidst prevailing chaos and confusion.

In today's fast-paced, ultra-competitive world, the question of effective leadership has never been more pertinent. How can leaders best serve their teams, their organizations, and ultimately, society? Inspired by the ancient wisdom of Daoist philosophy and Laozi’s four types of leaders, we delve into the paradoxes of leadership in a modern, often patriarchal, context.

In this episode, we explore the ancient concept of 'Tian' from the Daodejing, revealing its deep influence on human affairs and nature. Dive into Chapter 16 to understand the harmony between Nature and Man. Discover the sensations of aligning with the Way of Heaven and its impact on our daily interactions. Join us for a journey towards celestial balance and inner peace.

Dive into a profound exploration of the Daoist philosophy, discover how to "attain the ultimate emptiness" and "hold onto stillness" amidst the rush of modern life, find your roots in the transient world, and unlock the secret of longevity by knowing "the constant" and harmonizing with the heavens, all under the guidance of the ancient wisdom of the Daodejing.

Shengren 圣人 are devoted to cultivating wisdom and virtue. In this episode we focus in on what this means within Daoism as we explore the characteristics Laozi describes in Daodejing so that anyone can walk the path of Shengren.

How do you embody Dao? If you met someone who did, how would you know? Chapter 15 of Daodejing tries to help us understand the answers to these questions.

We ground the abstract descriptions of Dao from chapter fourteen of the Daodejing to help our listeners find practical ways to apply it.

What is spirituality? What is religion? We take a look at both of these as they relate to Daoism.

People chase after illusions and then wonder how they lose their peace of mind. When we give up our virtue for superficial things, we become superficial as well. This is a spiritual death.

Faith is a complicated thing. We explore this thing called "faith," how it applies to Daoism, and what it means to Walk the Timeless Way.

Moderation is one of the Three Treasures of Daoism. Chapter 12 of Daodejing focuses on this virtue. We discuss why moderation is important and how knowing what we find meaningful can help us to achieve it.

ChatGPT and related technologies are quickly changing the world. What does ChatGPT think about Daoism? What do Daoists think about ChatGPT?

It's the space in things that make them useful: the air in tires, the space in rooms. We also need internal space to create satisfactory lives.

Happy Chinese New Year! What is true hope? Where does it come from? How has it been distorted or lost in modern civilization?