Dear forum Members. 
I’ve recorded a podcast with Upasika @Viveka, whom you probably know from the forum. 
It was a very nice Dhamma discussion. Here are the timestamps, where you can check what we were talking about:
00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and welcoming Viveka
00:47 – Viveka’s approach to Dhamma – key points
03:17 – Kalama Sutta – observe what works and what doesn’t
05:35 – Yoniso Manasikāra – wise attention
08:31 – Gradual path from darkness to light
10:46 – Is refining one’s taste part of Dhamma practice?
12:30 – Are there two paths – one of refinement and one of total renunciation?
16:10 – Gradual and authentic path
23:05 – Aṭṭhakanāgara Sutta – 11 gates to Nibbāna and the importance of loving-kindness
27:14 – Gentle vs strict approach to Dhamma, Vipassanā, and the gradual path
35:23 – To let go of ego, you first need a healthy ego. Gradual development through right effort
43:35 – Dominator culture vs partnership culture – Riane Eisler’s “The Chalice and the Blade”. Maternal energy and Goddess worship
50:33 – Mettā Sutta and the ancient European Goddess cult. Dhamma as nature
57:00 – Difference between brahmic realms and Nibbāna. How do we know what we’re surrendering to?
1:03:00 – Could a philosopher like Socrates realize the Buddhist goal? Paccekabuddhas
1:09:18 – Evolution of different religions after the Buddha
1:12:51 – Path of the heart vs path of deconstruction
1:18:57 – Why are the more doctrinal suttas placed first in the collections?
1:20:22 – How to pass through the vortex / the abyss
1:23:22 – Taking refuge after encountering the abyss. Is there anything more to cross beyond the abyss?
1:26:31 – Dominator vs partnership culture in the context of celebrating life and death
1:30:02 – Relationships based on desire vs selfless love
1:37:47 – Unconditional love and setting boundaries when we are being harmed
1:42:34 – Hierarchy between laypeople and the Sangha – is the balance disturbed?
1:47:48 – Conclusion, final words and thanks
Link to podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu3gticbtQY
I hope you like it and that it will be beneficial to you. If you want to discuss anything that was touched upon in this podcast, you’re welcome to do so in this thread. I wish everyone a wonderful day! 
