I was struggling and found this podcast. I listened I wept. I am learning.

This podcast is a breath of fresh air at a time when the air waves are saturated with discouraging news and divisive messages. I feel immediately calmer and more grounded to Earth and in reality when I hear the opening music and the voices of Brother Phap Huu and Jo Confino. Thank you for sharing your wisdom of Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings and reminding us that we are all capable of living true and happy lives through compassion and understanding! <3 My only criticism is that Jo tends to dominate the conversations and sometimes seems more focused on sharing his own experiences (and expertise) rather than diving into the theme’s substance and exploring questions with Phap Huu, who after all is the Buddhist monk…

So grateful for this podcast. Learning so much and viewing myself and others in a new light.

I am so grateful for this show. I feel like I’m sitting with two friends as Jo Confino and Brother Phap Huu discuss various topics on Zen and Buddhism. I’ve shared it with non-Buddhist friends who have found so much meaning and comfort in the podcast too. It’s my regular listener for my 45-minute commute to work and it starts my day with positive energy.

I have been listening to The Way Out Is In since August of 2024, I am so grateful because it’s so helpful and settling. The topics they discuss are always relevant and resonant. Life is full of ups and downs and the downs can be vary hard to manage, this podcast provides wisdom that is calming and helps me to manage my emotions when anger, doubt, fear etc. arise in my mind. Brother Phap Huu is wise beyond his years and his calm voice and demeanor are a pleasure to listen to. Joe Confino is also a pleasure to hear and a vital part of this wonderful collaboration! Thank you to these two wonderful and wise men! 🙏🪷

When I began listening to these podcasts, I wrote in a review: “ I’m learning so much more from these podcasts than from Dharma Talks, because the practical application of Thay’s teaching is discussed. I especially enjoy hearing Brother Phap Huu’s personal applications in his daily life, and also stories about Thay. I’m able to apply more to my life because of these podcasts.” I’m not enjoying them as much now because I’m hearing a lot of Buddhist teaching on ancestors. I would prefer these podcasts to reach non-Buddhist listeners like they did in the beginning. I believe their teaching of ancestors and “no self” are psychologically damaging, so I don’t listen now. We need to remember that we are uniquely created, like snowflakes, and learn how to find our uniqueness and learn to work with others’ uniquenesses in bringing peace to our world.

Community and friendship through the miracle of modern technology. This podcast helps listeners cultivate peace, honesty, compassion, and joy.

It had a small political content early on but stayed focused on Buddhism. In fact, they seemed to intentionally avoid political discussions. All that went out the window once Master Thich Nhat Hanh died. After mourning his death, they seem to throw off all controls. Thay sought to transcend politics, and if anyone had cause to hold hate or bigoted views it would have been him, but he didn’t. He sought to spread love and understanding. Phap Huu does a good job staying grounded and has a firm understanding of the dharma and is able to convey it in a down to earth way, but he is doing that less and less, while more and more time is being devoted to the whackadoodles who say things like “I was told we only have 10 years to sort out the climate crises or we are all doomed. And that was a year ago, so now we only have 9 years left.” BTW, that was in an episode like 2 years ago I think. So does Jo think we are all going to die in 7 years still? Is he going to admit he was totally wrong and misguided, and presented a false view of what the Buddha thought. Most of what he says runs opposite to the teachings, and shows a fundamental lack of understanding of the way of the universe. Jo Confino sounds like a cheesy Christian preacher complete with straw man arguments. He, and now all the guests, tell these ridiculous stories that were “told” to them, “it was an American”, that contain statements that no one would say. Every single time it is “an American”. I didn’t know bigotry was a foundational principle of Buddhism. I must of missed that sutra. He blames everything wrong in his life and his thinking on Western society. I lived in Western society all life and have never heard anyone talk like he does before he was “saved”. The way he talks about his wife, his infantile neediness and greediness, his thoughts about what it means to live in the western world (a dichotomy that the Buddha would have eschewed), belie HIS Narcissistic Personality Disorder, not society. He’s like that guy in the office that no one likes because they are so self centered and sociopathic that no one wants to be around, and when everyone is tired of his toxicity he ups and quits and goes on a spiritual journey. But what they really do is play at the new schtick and learn the words, but never understand them, not to mention internalize them. I’ve met so many preachers that do this, with all their “SCIENCE SAYS…” sermons full straw man arguments, logical fallacies, and putting on a pious show. He really isn’t qualified to be teaching Buddhism. I have listened to every episode to this point, but have unsubscribed because I no longer learn anything other than Plum Village is based on bigotry and performance of Buddhism and not actually attaining enlightenment. Their thoughts are filled with bickering, catastrophizing everything, and blaming all evils on Western society with America as their scapegoat. I don’t want this negativity in my life. If Brother Phap Huu and Sister True Dedication for example hosted the podcast, maybe I would listen again. But this cheesy political nonsense mascarading as Buddhism just ain’t cutting it.

If there is anything I am addicted to it’s this podcast. Love it so much! So relaxing and inspiring.

I had followed the teachings years ago and I’m so grateful to have found this podcast!

I am so glad I came across this podcast. I am new to the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh and this podcast has done an excellent job of explaining and educating me on Buddhist practices. I particularly loved episode #14 when Brother Jo explained what it meant to be at home with himself. That episode made me teary eyed and hopeful. Thank you both so much for sharing.

I deeply appreciated the in-depth explanation of being with painful feelings. So practical and applicable to us all. Well-done!

I am grateful and appreciate Jo and Brother Phap Huu keeping the joy, wisdom, and hope of the Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh alive even after his passing. This is the spiritual part of life I would not be getting without them. I hope to go to some retreats and experience TNH’s wisdom in dharma talks, meditative walks, experienced with a communal sangha

Love and help come through the podcast to you.

I love this podcast. We are living in a time of extreme uncertainty, and for me, it's easy to give in to fear and cynicism; however, this podcast -- and the care, compassion, and thoughtfulness of the hosts -- helps me to feel that there is hope, and to find peace and compassion in my own being.

Have you ever wished you could eavesdrop on the deep conversations of an eastern monk and his western friend? What if they actually discussed how to experience peace and joy? Or how to save the planet without losing oneself to despair? What if they sometimes tease one another into peals of laughter? No? Are you curious about Buddhism? Well, what if they were both students of the gentle and wise teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh? What if you discovered that they actually knew you were listening and warmly welcomed you to visit them in “sitting still hut” each time they meet for these discussions. Ok, so the westerner has been a layperson on the path for a minute, but believe me that you will not feel like an eavesdropper but an observant participant. This is one of my top 3 favorite podcasts; I always learn something or come away with a renewed sense of resilience, peace, and fellowship with all. I’m not even a Buddhist but it doesn’t matter here.

I just listened to Brother Phap sharing, in his calm as well light-hearted way, his and others’ experiences at Plum Village - experiences that have great potential to go with the participants, beyond the grounds of the Village, into their lives, and add something life-enhancing. He didn’t describe anything particularly fantastic-sounding, but very simple everyday kinds of practices, including simply appreciating or respecting what is already in their lives. I have listened to many podcasts, and read many things related to finding our way in life, often using very similar words, but rarely have someone’s words calmed my soul, as Brother Phap’s did. I am grateful. I just asked myself why I didn’t tap on all 5 stars; my best guess is simply, “That’s the number that came up.” And then I thought that maybe someone who is seeking their truth will be drawn to read this, and maybe that’s reason enough.

I check in each week and notice that nothing new has been posted. Have you ended the pod cast?

Thank you so much for offering a place where I can come back whenever I feel lost.

I have listed to these podcasts over and over and have contributed to their cause although I am not Buddhist or interested in become Buddhist. But beginners minds has opened me to life lessons & values. However, recent conversations with guests loudly speaking over one another has diminished the “precious moments” of these discussions. Please reconsider format.

I listen to Jo Confino and Brother Phap Huu’s podcast every week. It helps me to feel grounded and mindful, and so much less alone on the path of bringing inner exploration and awareness into everyday life. I’m SO GRATEFUL for this podcast!!!

The teachings of Thich Nhat Hahn and Plum Village are a true North Star. Thank you for this beautiful resource and all you are doing to help us find our way home.

Delighted and grateful to have discovered this podcast! Highly recommend for anyone and everyone. Thank you 🙏🏻

I have a read many of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books and had the pleasure of an being at an in person at a dharma talk by Thay. My practice has not been strong. Thanks for motivation to continue to try to develop my practice. Peace is truly every step even if I often struggle to stay in the present moment. Please listen and give the practice a try it has brought me peace at critical times.

I am so grateful to find this podcast channel. So much insights. I feel so peaceful when i listen to them. I started learning and putting a regular schedule meditation for me and my son everyday and anytime i can. I am more mindful of things in my life now. I cannot express all my thought and feeling. Thank you Joe and brother Phap Huu and please keep have it coming.

Please keep guests additional to Jo and Bro at a minimum. There are enough in the regular pod. Keep it simple and with the q and a. Simplicity is best, and q and a’s target more of our reality. Great stuff. Thanks

This is a very calming and wonderful podcast to listen too all the time . I just love it that it is so easy to follow. Thank you

I deeply appreciate this podcast. Brother Phap Huu, Jo Comfino and their frequent and dynamic guest Sister True Dedication share such honest, clear wisdom that always helps me center myself and is a reminder of the power of simplicity. I use the 5 min meditations at the end of the sessions as daily centering exercises. Truly wonderful.

Every episode lifts me up - so grateful. Thank you!

It is now about 2 years you are part of my life. You accompany me in the precious moments of peace and learning that I find in my daily busy life of a mother and full-time professional. I would like to express my gratitude for the beautiful offering you do with this podcast. So accessible, so human, tender, deep and joyful. I dream of one day to come and visit Plum village and give me the gift of few days of introspection and connection. Thank you for shading light and for bringing those truths so close to me.

I stumbled upon this at a time literally when my life seemed completely pointless. I’m beyond words grateful for this entire community and tireless selfless work that comes from such a profound impact and gift. I can truly say I simply cannot do without all of you. I hope to one day travel to France to meet all the brothers and sisters of this incredible community, I’m crying just writing this I’ve never had such powerful powerful tears as the ones I’ve experienced throughout this experience. So yes am I grateful and feeling blessed without any doubt.🙏🏽 my journey will continue on and I will continue to grow open up and listen. I’ve always done my best to keep my ear close to the ground to listen. Being an earth sign I’ve always felt and noticed it as a young child and well into my adulthood. But without finding this space I was losing sight but have since come way back around. Thank you a million times and millions of miles back and around. Vin M

I’m so incredibly grateful for this podcast. Always insightful, often humorous, it has provided me with so much guidance and encouragement. Thank you!

For most of us, time is our greatest (and most limited) resource. It is important to use it as wisely as we can…for ourselves, and our families, friends, and community. The minutes devoted to listening to this podcast are very well spent. Brother Phap Huu and the other monks and nuns from Plum Village are accessible, approachable, honest, open, and deeply wise. Of course, they are exceptionally well trained in Thich Nhat Hanh’s Mahayana tradition, but they also share many personal and relevant experiences to demonstrate how each of us can extend and engage our practice in our everyday lives (in practical, sensible, achievable ways). They are truly gifted communicators, and they relate so well to lay listeners… They understand how important it is for engaged Buddhism to open the teaching channel between the monastery and the public. Jo Confino is also a wonderful host and contributor to the experience. He is humble yet fearless in his role as a gentle guide, navigator, question-asker, and (sometimes) novice perspective-holder. The deep respect and trust between Jo, Brother Phap Huu, and the other guests is present in every episode, and it’s this foundation that makes it so comfortable and enriching to have a seat at Thay’s table for the discussions. I’m sure the thousands of regular listeners agree: we all have enormous gratitude to Thay, Plum Village, Brother Phap Huu, Jo Confino, Sister True Dedication, and all the other Sisters and Brothers and guests who help make this teaching channel possible. Thank you.

2/18/24 This podcast has provided me with the right conditions to begin the process of transforming my own suffering and looking deeply within. Brother Phap Huu and Jo, thank you for the gift of this podcast, your episodes have really helped me discover new insights and see life with more understanding. I hope to come to Upper Hamlet one day, I have much gratitude always. ~Christin

This is so well done. The combo of Jo, as a lay person and journalist, and Phap Huu, as a monk with close connections to Thay, is a beautiful thing. I have long been concerned with who’s voice will pick up where Thay has left off. And I am feeling more at ease with it, as Phap Huu is a wonderful continuation of Thay and his teachings. Thank you for making this available.

Thank you for this wonderful podcast. This podcast plays a significant role in my recovery from alcohol addiction and in finding ways to cope with life in general. I love the humility and humor with who the conversations are conducted and almost feel like I am right there with you in Thich Nhat Hahn’s sitting still hut. Thank you for bringing his teachings to life and sharing your beautiful hearts with the world. 🙏🏻

Simple and relatable topics. I always feel better after listening. Thank you for your time.

Really enjoy this podcast. The hosts are kind, compassionate, and insightful. Listening is a very relaxing and uplifting experience. I appreciate Plum Village for providing it as a way to learn and connect with the teachings.

Just like the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, this podcast is simple, approachable, and endlessly deep. Peaceful and gently challenging. I always come away a little better after listening.

Plum village have taught me so much about handling difficult emotions in life and finding happiness. I love how they break down Buddhism to simple concepts and really emphasis on happiness is the ultimate most important thing in our lives. Realizing that helps reduce moments of my anxiety, anger, and seasonal affective depression. I’ve been using concepts I learned here to help relieve my friends’ suffering as well. Thank you Thay and everyone from plum village. Hope I can visit in person one day!

this show is a light in my life

How can you not love these show hosts? They are insightful, funny, real, and delightful! I look forward to listening to their advice and translation of Buddhist values and practices which always gives me more insight on how to lead a better life because of my deeper understanding about mindset and perspective within Buddhist teachings.

I am so grateful for this podcast, any morning that I can listen to an episode is such a precious time. The topics and soothing voices of Brother Phap Huu and Jo (and all of their lovely guests) help me to ground myself for the day ahead and give me space to ponder what’s being discussed. I appreciate you all for working diligently on this project and sharing the understandings of Thay’s teachings and your own experiences each time I tune in!

So grateful for you! I have been listening to Thay’s dharma talks for twenty years and am so happy that you continue to share your deep insights and to teach us how to practice from afar. I love the honesty and openness with which you talk about current situations and hearing you dialogue about them in real-time is so helpful. We need so much grounding and centering at the moment, and you lovely people are teaching us the way. I can’t thank you enough!

Thanks Bro Pham Huu and interviewer. Seven Mantras for a lifetime. Depth and helpful. Charnelle

Listening to the teachings feels like coming home to deep love and peace. I am grateful to be able to include this in my life. Thank you!

Thank you for this incredible series. The most recent episode discussing relationships hit close to home.

Coming from a place where… I truly felt alone in my suffering, and misunderstood by those closest to me. I’m so grateful for the way out is in… I am learning to love deeper, accept the impermanence of life, and be a more compassionate being. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom, it has truly changed my life.

I am incredibly blessed by The Way Out Is In. I believe that There Is More Inside all of us and this podcast supports that notion. I am learning and growing daily as I lean into becoming more aware, awake, and mindful of what going on around me and inside of me, knowing it is all for my good. For this reason, I am watchful of what is trying to emerge within and for me. Blessed Be to the Almighty. Thank you both.

this is a true source of spaciousness. i would say it is the most important source of wisdom in my life, second only to meditation and going inward itself. here, there is such a depth of clarity and generosity in the teaching. it seems that no matter what may be coming up in my life, i always find some part of the episode that shines light upon it. i am so grateful for those that hold this space, the ripple of your impact flows far and wide. thank you with all my heart. may this space continue to bring lightness to all who listen.