In this episode, we delve into the intimate and extraordinary journey of Zen teachers Brooke and Rob McNamara, as they open up about their relationship, experiences, and practices. Starting from their unique meeting at a Zen retreat, the conversation explores the mysterious karma that brought them together, the evolution of their relationship, and their profound connection. They share insights into their parenting journey, navigating conflict with compassion, and how their Zen practice influences their daily lives. The episode beautifully intertwines themes of tenderness, presence, and the sacred in relationships. Brooke's poignant poem 'We Are All God's Poems' offers a touching closing to the conversation, highlighting the tender privilege of aging and living together.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:22 Experiencing the Extraordinary in Relationships
00:50 The Story of How We Met
33:47 Parenting and Dharma Transmission
47:29 Zen Practice in Daily Life
47:42 Balancing Family and Practice
49:05 Navigating Conflict as Zen Teachers
53:23 The Role of Compassion in Conflict Resolution
56:28 The Importance of Practice in Relationships
01:18:46 The Sacred in Relationships
01:19:16 Final Thoughts and Resources
01:33:43 A Poetic Conclusion
Guest Bios:
Rob McNamara is a transmitted Zen master, advisor, consultant and executive coach. He is the author of four books, most recently his forthcoming book Foundations for Elegant Relationships. Rob serves on the faculty at the Ivey School of Business’ LIFT Advanced Coaching Program and Real LIFE Programs, and is a former Harvard University Teaching Fellow, teaching adult development at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education.
Rob is currently is working on developing necessary, sufficient and complete philosophical systems, ethical tools and educational communities for ensuring conscious sustainable evolution. He is a fierce, playful and loving presence in his relationships and is a devoted husband and father of two boys living in Colorado
Brooke McNamara, MFA, is an award-winning poet, author, and transmitted Zen teacher and lineage holder. She has practiced as a student of Diane Musho Hamilton Roshi since 2010, receiving Dharma transmission in 2023. Prior to 2010, she was a student of non-dual teacher and poet, Dorothy S. Hunt, in the lineage of Adyashanti. Brooke has published two books of poems: Bury the Seed and Feed Your Vow, and has taught at Naropa University in Yoga Studies and at the University of Colorado, Boulder in Dance. She is a founding teacher at Dragon Lake Zen, and leads in-person and online courses and retreats in writing, meditation, and creative practice to facilitate the awakening of innate wisdom, compassion, artistry, and play. Brooke lives in Boulder, CO with her husband, Rob, and their two sons, Lundin and Orion.
Guest Links & Resources:
Reflections Episode soon to come:
After our in-depth conversation with Brooke & Rob, we will soon release our Reflections episode where we reflect on the key moments, insights, and practices that stood out. In our reflections episode, we share:
Observations and highlights from the original conversation.
Personal insights from Andrew and Danielle on applying these principles in daily life.
Practical ideas and exercises you can try to deepen the connection in your own relationships.
The Reflections episode is a shorter, intimate companion to the main interview—designed to help you process, integrate, and embody what was discussed.
