Day 1

In August of 2024, Sam Harris, Dan Harris, and Joseph Goldstein met for a short retreat on the coast of Maine to discuss Buddhism’s foundational practices. Their recorded conversations—a mix of philosophical reflections, personal stories, and friendly debate—are rich with nuance and humor, as well as with insights from Joseph’s many decades spent teaching meditation.

These unscripted recordings explore the causes of suffering and happiness, the nature of spiritual growth, and the relationship between mindfulness, thought, emotion, conduct, and wisdom.

While rooted in traditional Buddhist teachings, these sessions present a framework for living that remains profoundly relevant to the challenges and opportunities we encounter every day in the modern world.