The Many Acts of Life

In this episode, Jackie is joined by David Gerken, a lobbyist turned writer turned "mindfulness guru" (Jackie's words). David, a California native, is a graduate of both Princeton and Georgetown. In his first act of life, he worked on the Hill and ran a lobbying firm in D.C. Called to a more creative life, he headed west to Hollywood and eventually landed the greatest job on earth (Jackie's words) as a writer for the Emmy Award winning "West Wing." David's now entered his third act by writing and sharing the beauty of mindfulness and meditation from California to the hinterlands (his words).

David explains how his practical and consistent meditation practice helps manage the stress and chaos of everyday life. He also shares the science behind the practice and challenges Jackie to be less wired and anxiety stricken (her words). People in all walks of life will appreciate how developing their own meditation practice can help let go of their ego and lead a more calm, peaceful, and fulfilling life.

David also takes a surprise expert question from former U.S. Senator Byron Dorgan! Leading up to the show's taping, Jackie and David learned they had a wonderful friend in common. Sen. Dorgan asks about the effects of social media on mindfulness and David answers ... well ... you have to listen to hear.

You can find David's work on his website at http://www.davidgerken.net/ and where Jackie found him, on Substack @davidgerken, where he's "Helping regular people use the basics of spirituality to do better in every facet of their lives in a fun, non-woo woo way (his words). Jackie is a bit woo woo, but she enjoyed this interview and loves David's writing!