Choosing the Buddhist Path: How and Why Artwork

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.

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Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver

Choosing the Buddhist Path: How and Why

July 25, 2025 • Susan Piver • Season 1 • Episode 19

In this new episode, I explore what it actually means to become a Buddhist through the Refuge Vow. Potentially misunderstood as a formality or an unnecessary label, I discuss the spiritual and practical significance of the vow.

Refuge is taken in the Three Jewels—Buddha (awakening), Dharma (wisdom/path), and Sangha (community). What do they mean? I also share about my own journey in taking the vow in 1993, how I was trained and given permission to offer the vow myself, and the internal changes that often follow taking the vow.

Taking refuge isn't about labeling yourself—it's about recognizing a path you're already on.

Highlights:

What the Refuge Vow actually is—and isn’t
The meaning and power of the Three Jewels
When (and if) you know you're ready to take the vow
Personal stories of transformation, doubt, and commitment
How taking the vow changes your relationship with life

“The best time to take the Refuge Vow is when it simply feels like a recognition of something that has already happened.”

Resources & Links:

Visit Susan’s Substack & continue the conversation: Susan Piver on Substack
Learn more or join her community: The Open Heart Project
Mentioned in podcast: Episode 8: Who Can You Trust in the Spiritual World?

For more on Buddhist teachings and how our humanity isn’t necessarily in our way, sign up for my free weekly newsletter or join the Open Heart Project sangha for more connection with community and with me.

If this podcast has been meaningful to you, it would be great if you would subscribe, give it a five star rating and share it with a friend. To join or learn more about The Open Heart Project please visit openheartproject.com.

Thoughts? Email us at info@susanpiver.com

Produced by Citizens of Sound