Handful of Leaves

Handful of Leaves

Handful of Leaves

Bringing you practical wisdom for a happier life.
Podcast

Ep 69: Why You Feel Unworthy? A Harvard Monk Explains Ft. Haemin Sunim, Zen Monk & Bestselling Author

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 attention away from negativity, and rediscover a sense of peace and intrinsic worth that has always been within us.

Podcast

Ep 68: Do We Really Need Another Monastery? Ft. Ajahn Nisabho from Clear Mountain

In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Ajahn Nisabho to explore a powerful question: 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 build a monastery in the West, he reflects on how practice, service, and community are not competing priorities, but interconnected expressions of the same path.

Podcast

Ep 67: Why Buddhist Couples Stay Happier – The Surprising Truth

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 shares how mindfulness, curiosity, and honest communication can transform conflict into connection — and why lasting love is less about grand gestures and more about daily intention.

Podcast

Ep 66: Alone But Not Lonely ft. Ven Sumangala

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.

Podcast

Ep 65: The Buddhist Path to Finding Your True Purpose ft. Ven Sumangala

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 endless striving.