Handful of Leaves | Mindfulness & Buddhism in Everyday Life

What if the peace you've been searching for was never outside of you? In this profound conversation, internationally renowned Zen monk and bestselling author Haemin Sunim shares timeless wisdom on navigating heartbreak, uncertainty, difficult relationships, and life's inevitable challenges. Drawing from Buddhist teachings and personal experience, he reveals how inner peace emerges not from...

Why do we feel like we’re never enough even when everything seems “fine” on the outside? In this heartfelt conversation, Haemin Sunim unpacks the hidden roots of unworthiness, revealing how our deepest insecurities are often shaped by childhood survival instincts and our need to belong. Through gentle wisdom and practical insights, he shows us how to reconnect with our inner child, shift our atten...

In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Ajahn Nisabho to explore a powerful question many practitioners quietly wrestle with: with so many Buddhist paths available, why commit deeply to one? Drawing from his journey in the Thai Forest Tradition, Ajahn Nisabho shares how commitment is less about limitation and more about depth and sincerity. Through his experience training as a monk and helping to b...

Many couples don’t fall apart because of a lack of love — they drift because they stop listening, growing, and meeting each other where they are. In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Angela, founder of Almost Peaceful , to explore why some relationships deepen over time while others quietly disconnect. Drawing from lived experience, Buddhist principles, and years of working with couples, Angela...

What does it mean to be alone without feeling lonely? In this episode, Venerable Sumangala reflects on solitude, companionship, and the inner stability needed to stand confidently on our own. Drawing from Buddhist teachings and lived experience, she shares why learning to be at ease with oneself is essential for mental freedom, emotional resilience, and genuine connection with others. ✨ Key Takea...

What gives life true meaning beyond achievement, comfort, and success? In this episode, Venerable Sumangala reflects on purpose, happiness, and the Buddhist path—challenging modern ideas of fulfillment and inviting us to look inward. Through teachings on non-attachment, mental training, and the Noble Eightfold Path, this conversation explores how lasting happiness comes from freedom of mind, not e...

In this energizing conversation, Meng — Google’s former “Jolly Good Fellow” and co-founder of buddhism.net — breaks down how Buddhist practice can boost happiness, success, and emotional resilience. From the “minimum effective dose” of meditation to the surprising technique of “suffer later,” Meng shares practical tools anyone can use to feel calmer, think clearer, and live wiser — without needing...

In this inspiring conversation, Buddhist nun and author Emma Slade (Lopen Ani Pema Deki) shares how compassion fuels her work through Opening Your Heart to Bhutan , a charity supporting children with special needs. From surviving a life-changing hostage experience to preparing for a 37-day trek across Bhutan, Emma reveals how resilience, faith, and kindness can transform both personal suffering an...

From dating to reading about Elon Musk to politics, he was in search of meaning in his early 20s. That all changed when he read about the Buddha and his monks. We had the awesome opportunity to speak with Phra Ryan before he took on full ordination. Here’s his story of becoming a monk at the prime of his career in the tech industry. This is also how he, as an only son and having family members of...

In this episode, Lopen Ani Pema Deki (Ven Emma Slade) — a former London investment banker who left after a near-death experience in Jakarta to ordain in Bhutan — explores what it means to widen the heart and become truly unbreakable. She contrasts fleeting, manufactured happiness with the effortless joy that arises from practice and explains how small acts of kindness build resilience. Perfect for...

How can Buddhist principles guide tough business decisions, build trust, and create a healthier workplace culture? In this episode, Glints co-founder Ying Cong shares real-life lessons from 11 years of leading a startup—navigating challenges from employee boundaries to co-founder conflicts—while staying grounded in his “inviolable principles.” His reflections show how mindfulness and compassion ca...

What does it mean to build a $200M startup while staying grounded in Buddhist values? In this episode, Ying Cong, co-founder of Glints, shares candid stories from his entrepreneurial journey—from navigating PR crises to letting go of ego and status. With wisdom drawn from his daily two-hour meditation practice and real-world experience, he explores how Dhamma can shape leadership, decisions, and e...

How do we grow through trauma and find clarity in the midst of chaos? In this heartfelt and honest episode, Hary Ho opens up about his journey through childhood trauma, depression, and a life-changing medical condition that forced him to confront impermanence head-on. His story is a powerful reminder that healing isn't linear—but it is possible. Tune in for raw reflections, unexpected insights...

What does Vesak mean beyond flowers, incense, and rituals? In this warm and insightful conversation, the HOL team reflects on their childhood memories, evolving understanding, and personal aspirations for Vesak. From funny temple stories to deep reflections on renunciation, this episode explores how we can live the true spirit of Vesak — not just on one day, but every day. Key Takeaways: 🌱 From R...

In this heartfelt farewell episode, Kai Xin shares her personal journey of stepping away from Handful of Leaves to fully pursue the spiritual path. Together with Heng Xuan, they reflect on the early days of HOL, the community they’ve built, and what lies ahead. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the platform, this episode is a touching reminder of purpose, presence, and legacy. Key Take...

In this enriching episode of Handful of Leaves , Venerable Sumangala shares how Buddhist wisdom can be applied to everyday challenges—whether in the workplace, in speech, or in balancing spiritual life with modern demands. With heartfelt stories and practical guidance, she offers a grounded path toward wisdom, mindfulness, and right living. Key Takeaways: 🗣️ Right Speech Matters – How the words we...

In this episode of Handful of Leaves, Venerable Sumangala shares insights on the practice of letting go and renunciation, emphasising the importance of inner transformation and understanding suffering. She explains how letting go of attachment to ego and external perceptions leads to true freedom and happiness, while still pursuing goals with a balanced approach. Key Takeaways: 🧘‍♀️ Letting Go of...

In this deeply personal episode, Julian opens up about his journey of self-discovery, struggles with self-acceptance, and how Buddhism transformed his perspective on life. He shares his battles with fear, vulnerability, and self-doubt, offering valuable insights on resilience and personal growth. Join us as we explore the power of kindness, healing, and embracing one's true self. #SelfDiscover...

In this insightful episode of Handful of Leaves, we held a conversation with Brother Duc Pho - a monastic from Plum Village - to explore the powerful connection between music and mindfulness. Discover how music can enhance meditation, help transform suffering, and cultivate a more joyful, present life. Brother Duc Pho also shares personal stories, practical tips, and reflections on balancing silen...

In this inspiring episode, we explore how to rise above criticism, face unfairness with courage, and grow into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. Join host Cheryl and guest Jeraldine Phneah, a top tech sales leader and content creator, as they share transformative insights on navigating challenges, embracing forgiveness, and thriving in an often judgmental world. 💡 Key Takeaway: Lear...

In this episode, Cheryl and Sister Sylvia discuss practical ways to avoid critical judgment, cultivate compassion, and align our actions with the Dhamma for a more peaceful life. Some key takeaways include: 🧠 Understand why judgment is instinctual and how it stems from our survival mechanisms. 🧘 Learn how to be mindful of your feelings and reactions, turning judgment into compassion. 💭 Embrace...

Join us in this conversation between Cheryl and Heng Yeh —an award-winning poet, writer, and translator, as we discuss grief using poetry as a means to unpack the nuances. The conversation feels like peeling an onion , unfolding the layers of this complex human experience, and we hope you take a ride with us on your morning or evening commute! We talk about grief 😢, pain 💔, loneliness 😔, and ev...

Navigating conversations about death can be challenging, especially with ageing parents. In this poignant episode, Sis. Sylvia Bay, esteemed Dhamma Scholar shares insights on how to approach the topic of death with our parents, particularly in cultures where discussing death is considered taboo: 🕊️Learn when is the best time and ways to discuss death with loved ones. 😔How to address feelings of r...

In this thought-provoking discussion between Cheryl and esteemed Dhamma Scholar Sis. Sylvia Bay, we explore the vital Dhamma principles that guide us in our relationships with our parents and the deeper aspects of filial duty while staying true to our principles! Highlights include: 🌱 The Buddha’s teachings on honoring our parents and fulfilling our filial duties, both materially and spiritually...

🤔 Ever wondered what it truly means to take refuge in the Sangha? 🌱 In this episode, Cheryl and Brother Chye Chye explore the importance of this practice for personal and communal spiritual growth by understanding: ☸️ The significance and qualities of the noble Sangha 🙏 How we can find balance in relating to the Sangha 🔍 Checks and balances within the Sangha ecosystem #TakingRefuge #Sangha #Bu...