Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver
Buddhism Beyond Belief is a podcast from Susan Piver, a 30 year student of Tibetan Buddhism and founder of the Open Heart Project, an online meditation community with close to 20000 members.
With Susan as a friend and guide, we will look at traditional teachings like the four noble truths and the six paramitas–but not from an academic standpoint. Rather, we will talk about how to make it all personal and relevant in everyday life.
This podcast is not about Buddhist doctrine. It’s about how anyone can bring the profound wisdom of the dharma into their real life: at home, at work, and in love. The foundation for it all is meditation as a spiritual practice, not the latest life hack. Let’s go beyond the science and celebrity testimonials to discover the true power of meditation which is not based in self-improvement but in self-discovery.
Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver
Why You’re Not Meditating Consistently (and What to Do About It)
In this episode, Susan reflects on one of the most common meditation struggles: staying consistent. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why can’t I just do the thing I know is good for me?”—this episode is for you.
The surprising truth? It’s not a discipline problem. It’s a misunderstanding of what meditation really is.
Main Topics Covered:
The Real Reason Consistency is Hard
- It’s not about willpower.
- Most people approach meditation as self-improvement—but it’s actually a spiritual practice.
- Self-help says: “Something is wrong with me.”
Spiritual practice says: “I am already whole.”
Three Spiritual Anchors for a Deeper Practice
- Make Offerings
Small rituals (light a candle, burn incense) open your heart to mystery and devotion. They move the practice from “What can I get?” to “What can I discover?” - Request Blessings
Call in your lineage: spiritual teachers, ancestors, artists, activists—anyone who’s shaped your path. You’re not sitting alone. - Dedicate the Merit
Offer the benefits of your practice to all beings (including yourself!). Whatever happens during your session—delight, frustration, sleepiness—it can be of benefit, even though we may not be able to imagine how.
Three Practical Supports for Consistency (aka The Three Jewels)
These are the classic Buddhist “refuges,” and they’re also the structure we need to stay steady:
- Buddha – Your own awakened nature. Sitting down to meditate is a reconnection with this.
- Dharma – Study, reflect, journal—contemplate the deeper why behind your practice.
- Sangha – Practice with others, even virtually. Community is often the missing key.
Final Takeaway:
Consistency doesn’t come from willpower—it comes from aligning with meaning.
When meditation is treated as a way to open your heart rather than a way to “fix” yourself, a deeper magic is glimpsed.
Thoughts? Email us at info@susanpiver.com
Produced by Citizens of Sound
Music by: Derek O'Brien
©Open Heart Project