Asking for Help (Episode #115)

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Welcome to a new episode of The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living, a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh’s deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives.

In this episode, Zen Buddhist monk Brother Phap Huu and leadership coach Jo Confino discuss the difficulty of asking for help, exploring the cultural and personal barriers that can prevent people from seeking assistance. They emphasize the importance of recognizing indirect requests for help, and the need for compassion and presence when one is asked for help; the role of community and nature in providing support; and the necessity of self-forgiveness and self-care.The conversation underscores collective responsibility for addressing societal issues, and the power of shared vulnerability in fostering deeper connections. The hosts also share practical steps, from both teachings and their own lives.

Co-produced by the Plum Village App:https://plumvillage.app/

And Global Optimism:https://globaloptimism.com/

With support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation:https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/

List of resources

Sister Chan Khonghttps://plumvillage.org/about/sister-chan-khongBrother Phap Ling (Brother Spirit)https://plumvillage.org/people/dharma-teachers/brother-phap-linh

Interbeinghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interbeing

The Plum Village Traditionhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plum_Village_Tradition

Wake Up Retreat 2026https://plumvillage.org/articles/wake-up-retreat-2026-am-i-good-enough

The Four Mantras of Lovehttps://plumvillage.org/gems/event/The-Four-Mantras-of-Love-V2DFQvyDMgD3NEx7GTKfXz