The Student Within

In this episode, we sit with student Anisa Guajardo, whose journey moves between intensity and introspection. As professional athlete and winner of the 10th season of Exatlón , she reflects on what it means to move beyond intellectual understanding and into embodiment. Now, studying a master's in Transpersonal Mindfulness Counseling at Naropa becomes part of her self-discovery journey. Our convers...

In this episode, we sit with a lifelong student Austin Gates, whose path is shaped by devotion to practice, inquiry, and community. From contemplative psychology to meditation instruction, research, student organizing, and even Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, he reflects on what it means to remain a student throughout. Through stories of study, service, and embodied practice, this conversation becomes an inv...

In this uplifting conversation we meet Matthew, a student in his third year of graduate Yoga Studies at Naropa University. He is pursuing his third master’s degree. With warmth and humor, he shares his perspective on embracing life without the weight of academic stress and how spiritual connection to his ancestors encourage a life full of meaning. Radiating energy and curiosity, Matthew reminds us...

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with a veteran student who opens up about his journey from undergraduate to graduate studies at Naropa. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares how returning to school shaped his understanding of healing, identity, and purpose. Now working at a nonprofit that supports fellow veterans, he reflects on the importance of community, mental health awareness, and...

Our dialogue explores her evolving relationship with Tantra and Śaivism, her dedication to contemplative study, and the balance between academic and embodied practice. She reflects on how each stage of learning continues to unfold new dimensions of insight and devotion. She is a very much adored student within our cohort. Cynthia is currently pursuing her second master’s degree (Yoga Studies) and...