Best Jon Aaron And Doug Smith Podcasts (2025)

1
Letting Go Is Hard to Do 26:05

5d ago26:05

26:05

The second noble truth addresses the cause of Dukkha (suffering) as our nature to cling to our desires (or push away that which we don't want). The opposite of this is letting go. Ajahn Chah, the venerable Thai forest monk and teacher to many of today's wonderful teachers-- would say often: Letting go a little brings a little peace. Letting go a lo…

1
The Secrets to Smarter Marketing and Real Revenue Growth with Todd Ervin 33:45

11d ago33:45

33:45

Data is the foundation of effective AI implementation in marketing. Lee Judge and Todd Ervin explore how clean, structured data enables AI to drive segmentation, buyer journey mapping, and campaign optimization. They also discuss the importance of building brand awareness, aligning marketing with revenue goals, and using AI to enhance research and …

1
Practice as Refuge and Recharge 26:47

12d ago26:47

26:47

These are difficult times, and our practice can be a true refuge and an opportunity to recharge. However, it’s also possible for meditation to become a means of escaping or bypassing what’s happening in the world or our personal experiences. Ideally, true refuge recharges us and increases our capacity to face the world and with what Bhikkhu Bodhi c…

1
Rethinking Attribution and Alignment in B2B with Mary Keough 29:37

18d ago29:37

29:37

The episode explores the evolving role of marketing in B2B organizations, emphasizing the need for marketers to take ownership of strategy, customer understanding, and collaboration with sales. Lee Judge and guest Mary Keough discuss the importance of customer-centric content, the limitations of attribution in modern marketing, and how marketers ca…

1
Practicing Acceptance 27:35

19d ago27:35

27:35

Jon and Doug discuss the Buddhist practice of acceptance. How would the Buddha have framed it? How can we work with acceptance today, and how might an attitude of acceptance make our lives better? Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
Why SEO Traffic Is Going Down and Revenue Is Going Up with Dale Bertrand 42:44

19d ago42:44

42:44

The episode explores how AI is reshaping the landscape of SEO and digital marketing, urging marketers to shift from traditional keyword strategies to relevance and intent-based content creation. A. Lee Judge and Dale Bertrand discuss the importance of building content that resonates with human audiences while adapting to AI-driven search environmen…

1
Guarding the Sense Doors and Practicing with Social Media 29:19

26d ago29:19

29:19

The Buddha taught that guarding the sense doors is an essential part of practice. Of course, social media didn’t exist 2500 years ago. These days it’s so easy to get caught in the vortex of social media. Jon and Doug discuss how they guard (or not) the sense doors in the current media reality. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, …

1
Why Marketing Fails Without Sales Alignment and a Revenue First Mindset with Jennifer Jurgens 29:08

2M ago29:08

29:08

Jennifer Jurgens, CEO of 1BoldStep, shares how to reframe marketing as a core revenue function by focusing on measurable outcomes, fixing funnel bottlenecks, and driving customer retention. From aligning with sales to applying Lean principles across the revenue cycle, Jennifer explains what it really takes to prove marketing’s value and earn a perm…

1
How to Build a Scalable Content Engine That Boosts Visibility and Saves Budget 27:10

2M ago27:10

27:10

In this special internal episode, A. Lee Judge and Marc Raco from Content Monsta unpack how companies can build content engines that deliver consistent visibility, authority, and demand—without burning out their teams. They reveal why framing matters when selling marketing initiatives internally, how to build a content engine from expert conversati…

1
Why Every Modern Marketer Needs to Master Prompting and Embrace AI for Growth with Pam Didner 31:47

2M ago31:47

31:47

Pam Didner, B2B marketing expert and author of The Modern AI Marketer, joins A. Lee Judge to break down why prompting, automation, and AI-driven workflows are now critical for marketers. She shares practical frameworks for individuals, teams, and enterprises - and explains why focusing on workflows (not tools) is the key to staying competitive. If …

1
The Role of Faith or Confidence in Our Practice 28:29

2M ago28:29

28:29

Jon and Doug discuss the role of faith or confidence in Buddhist practice, how it can be useful and also how it can be misused. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
Audacious Marketing to Stand Out in an AI World with Mark Schaefer 35:21

2M ago35:21

35:21

Best-selling author Mark Schaefer shares how marketers can thrive in AI by leaning into what machines can’t replicate: creativity, community, and courage. Drawing from his latest book Audacious, Mark breaks down how to create standout content, build trust through word-of-mouth, and foster shared experiences that make your brand unforgettable. Grab …

1
Unlocking CMO Success and Strategies with Drew Neisser 36:37

2M ago36:37

36:37

Drew Neisser, author of Renegade Marketing and founder of CMO Huddles, shares what he’s learned from interviewing hundreds of top CMOs. He reveals how the best marketers earn trust in the C-suite, build real influence, and prove marketing’s value through smart business alignment. From building pricing power to reshaping internal messaging, Drew exp…

1
Using Behavioral Science in Marketing to Influence Customers with Nancy Harhut 33:06

3M ago33:06

33:06

Nancy Harhut, author of Using Behavioral Science in Marketing, breaks down the psychology behind consumer decision-making and how marketers can apply these insights to drive action. She reveals how small, science-backed tweaks in messaging, design, and pricing can dramatically increase conversions. From the power of social proof to the influence of…

1
Content Monetization and the Future of Marketing with Joe Pulizzi 30:24

3M ago30:24

30:24

Joe Pulizzi, the "Godfather of Content Marketing," shares how businesses and creators can build sustainable, revenue-generating content brands. From monetization strategies and employee-driven content to the impact of AI on content creation, Joe unpacks what’s working today—and what’s next for content entrepreneurs. He also explores why most compan…

1
AI First Marketing How AI Blockchain and Web3 Are Reshaping the Future with Sandy Carter 43:55

3M ago43:55

43:55

Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains and a leader in AI, blockchain, and next-gen marketing, breaks down how emerging technologies are reshaping the way businesses connect with customers. From the impact of AI on SEO and content marketing to the growing role of blockchain in trust and privacy, Sandy shares insights from the World Economic Forum…

1
Balancing Brand and Demand in B2B Marketing with Aaron Hassen 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

B2B buyers are changing, and trust in brands is at an all-time low. Aaron Hassen, co-founder of AH Marketing, breaks down why traditional marketing strategies are failing and what businesses must do to stay relevant. From building bold brands to navigating the shift toward informal, trust-driven engagement, Aaron shares insights on what it takes to…

1
Silence and Solitude 27:45

4M ago27:45

27:45

Silence and solitude are two forms of Buddhist practice of great depth, but also some difficulty for many. Jon and Doug discuss how they appear in the early texts, and how we can practice with them today. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
Marcus Sheridan on Building Trust Through Content 51:59

4M ago51:59

51:59

Marcus Sheridan, author of They Ask, You Answer, breaks down the evolution of content marketing and why trust is the ultimate competitive advantage. From turning his struggling pool company into the most trafficked swimming pool website in the world to helping businesses become industry leaders, Marcus reveals the strategies that drive real busines…

1
LinkedIn Ads Mastery: Targeting, Costs, and Strategy with AJ Wilcox 33:36

4M ago33:36

33:36

AJ Wilcox, founder of B2Linked, breaks down the complexities of LinkedIn advertising and shares expert insights on making the platform work for your business. As one of the world’s top LinkedIn Ads specialists, AJ shares solutions to the challenges of high costs, targeting the right audience, and structuring campaigns for maximum ROI. From understa…

1
Finding Joy Through Practice 25:57

4M ago25:57

25:57

Joy is an essential aspect of Buddhist practice. And boy do we need joy right now! Jon and Doug discuss how joy can arise for us, and what attitudes and practices can help joy to arise. Jon's Talk on Joy for Tricycle Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
Marketing's Future in the face of AI and Innovation with Wil Reynolds 54:03

4M ago54:03

54:03

Wil Reynolds, founder of SEER Interactive, gets real on the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing. Wil shares his unique perspective on navigating the AI revolution, the importance of continuous learning, and why marketers need to adapt quickly to survive. From practical advice on mastering LLMs (Large Language Models) to building authent…

1
Pilgrimage and Spiritual Seekers 29:47

4M ago29:47

29:47

Jon has been on pilgrimage in India over the last few weeks. He reports in about all he's been experiencing at various Buddhist and other sites. Links: Jon's blog posts: JonAaron.net/musings Where Are You Going: Ajahn Sucitto and Nick Scott https://whereareyougoing.podbean.com/ Doug's video: King Asoka: Buddhism's Great Political Modernist -- https…

1
Zero-Click Marketing with Rand Fishkin 27:07

5M ago27:07

27:07

Rand Fishkin, founder of SparkToro and former co-founder of Moz, takes us through the evolution of digital marketing. From the concept of "zero-click marketing" to why traditional traffic-focused metrics are becoming less relevant in today's digital landscape, the conversation explores how major platforms are keeping users within their ecosystems, …

1
It's About Time in Buddhism 27:59

6M ago27:59

27:59

How do we perceive time, and what can we learn from Buddhist teachings about it? How do we frame the past and the future, not to mention the present? Jon and Doug discuss this topic, inspired by the fact that Jon is currently in India, which is 9.5 hours ahead of the East Coast of the U.S., where Doug is. Support the show Go to our website to leave…

1
Dharma Chat with Stephen Fulder-- Practicing in Challenging Times 33:20

6M ago33:20

33:20

Jon and Doug have a wide-ranging chat with the dharma teacher and peace activitist, Stephen Fulder, founder of Tovana, the Israel Insight Society. We discuss his work in Israel and his new book, How to Thrive in Hard Times. You can find his book here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-Thrive-Hard-Times-Buddhist/dp/1915672740/ Support the show Go…

1
Refuge in Practice: Self or Sangha? 27:35

6M ago27:35

27:35

What is the role of community in our practice? The sangha is one of the traditional three refuges or jewels of Buddhism. The Buddha also advised at the end of his life to hold the self as our island and refuge, with the dharma as our island and refuge. Jon and Doug discuss how we reconcile these ideals. Support the show Go to our website to leave a…

1
Investigation, Energy, and Joy 26:54

7M ago26:54

26:54

Three key aspects of the seven enlightenment factors are investigation, energy, and joy. What are they, and how can we touch them in our practice? Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
Conscious of Consciousness 34:01

7M ago34:01

34:01

The final aggregate in the set of five is consciousness. What is meant by consciousness/ As an aggregate of clinging, when does it get in the way? Jon and Doug discuss. Doug's Video: The Problem(s) of Consciousness -- https://youtu.be/W1Pn65QZiZs Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links:…

1
Sankharas, What Are They? Volitional Formations/Constructions/etc.? 27:36

7M ago27:36

27:36

In Buddhism the root of karmic action is in sankharas, a word with many uses in the dharma. As we practice, we can see the sankharas taking shape and then realize we have choices. But even the choices are related to other sankharas and the "wow' of this mind. Jon and Doug discuss them and how we can view their role in our lives. Support the show Go…

1
Bringing Our Practice to an Unwanted Outcome 28:14

8M ago28:14

28:14

Two days after the US Election, Doug and Jon discuss how they are handling the results. They also discuss how our practice can support us as we look to the future political landscape in the US and the world. Jon offered this poem by Rilke as a support: Let This Darkness be a Belltower Rainer Maria Rilke Quiet friend who has come so far, feel how yo…

1
Talkin' 'bout feeling (Vedana) 29:30

8M ago29:30

29:30

Feeling tone, the pleasure or pain we take in experience, is a central part of dharma. As an aggregate, a foundation of mindfulness, a link in the chain of dependent origination, appreciating, understanding, and directly experiencing Vedana is a key to experiencing freedom. Jon and Doug have a lively discussion on this topic. Support the show Go to…

1
The Aggregate of Form: Body and World 29:13

8M ago29:13

29:13

Doug and Jon continue to explore the Five Aggregates of Clinging (to self) and this week explore Form. How do we cling to form and at what point, does this clinging become suffering? Are doesn't it? Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
"Things Aren't as the Seem , Nor are they Otherwise*"-- Perception and Mis-Perception 28:20

8M ago28:20

28:20

Jon and Doug discuss perception and how it's mediated by past experience and the stories we tell. How does it become misperception? How can we work with our perception to live more skillfully and fully? *this quote is attributed to the Roman poet Phaedrus but it is often used by various Zen teachers Support the show Go to our website to leave a com…

1
The Fetter of Conceit 30:59

9M ago30:59

30:59

How does our concept of ourselves and others create suffering? What would it be like to soften this "conceit of self". Understanding and seeing through this conceit, is the last of the higher fetters, which needs to the released before awakening. Jon and Doug discuss how this comes up in practice. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comme…

1
Disenchantment: It's not really what it sounds like, or is it? 24:39

9M ago24:39

24:39

The Buddhist attitude of "nibbidā" or "disenchantment"/"disgust" is central to the early teaching. What is it and how can it help us navigate our lives? Jon and Doug discuss. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
A Buddhist View on Forgiveness 28:52

9M ago28:52

28:52

Doug and Jon discuss what forgiveness means in the contact of Buddhism. Is it Buddhist? It's a powerful and important practice but it doesn't seem to appear anywhere in the teachings. Information on the Class offered by Jon: Watering the Seeds of Forgiveness Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further note…

1
The Buddha in the Voting Booth 2024 28:26

10M ago28:26

28:26

Doug has Covid, Jon has a bad microphone, but they're chatting about the Buddha and voting anyway, as well as Buddhist practice and voting. What does 2024 bring for us in the voting booth, and how should we frame our political choices? To register to vote, and check voter registration in the US: https://vote.gov/ Support the show Go to our website …

1
Is Meditation Dangerous? 26:01

10M ago26:01

26:01

A recent podcast series at the Financial Times discussed serious problems several meditators have had at one popular ten-day Vipassana retreat system. Jon and Doug discuss this and some important work by Brown psychology professor Dr. Willoughby Britton. Links: The Retreat — an investigative podcast into the perils of meditation [Financial Times] -…

1
Renunciation 23:53

10M ago23:53

23:53

With Jon's impending move to Chicago Jon and Doug discuss the beneficial practice of renunciation. What do we really need? Video: George Carlin talks about "stuff" -- https://youtu.be/MvgN5gCuLac Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
The Value of Silence 30:24

11M ago30:24

30:24

Silence is so important to Buddhist practice. Jon and Doug discuss how silence impacts practice as well as some of the early tradition around silence. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
Experiencing Art and Entertainment in the Context of the Dharma 27:20

11M ago27:20

27:20

How do we bring our Buddhist practice into our relationship with the arts and entertainment? The early Buddhist teachings, in particular, seem to look askance at this area of life. Doug and Jon discuss this interesting topic and how they integrate practice into their own interests in the arts. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, …

1
The Bodhisattva Ideal 27:21

11M ago27:21

27:21

The Bodhisattva ideal really blossomed in the Mahayana traditions but the idea of the Bodhisattva was certainly present in the earlier traditions. Perhaps not in name but certainly in expression. When the Buddha spoke about himself before his Enlightenment, he referred to himself as a Bodhisattva. And, of course, the fact that he taught for 40 year…

1
Steps Along the Path: The Four Stages of Progress 29:54

11M ago29:54

29:54

Stream-entry, once returning, non-returning, and arahantship are the traditional four stages of progress along the Buddhist path. What do they mean? Are they historical? Are they necessary for us to know about? Jon and Doug dive into this topic, which always raises questions about the value and the pitfalls. Support the show Go to our website to le…

1
How We Become a Self 24:56

12M ago24:56

24:56

The Buddha described humanity as tangled like string, knotted like a ball of thread. This tangle is a result of not seeing clearly the dependent co-arising— paticca-samupadda-- of phenomena. This is one of the most important of the early teachings. It can be seen through the lens of individual dissatisfaction and of course, through social, politica…

1
The Heart Quality Equanimity 29:00

12M ago29:00

29:00

Equanimity- Upekkha has an important place in many of the key Buddhist teachings. It's the fourth of the Divine Abodes, the seventh Factor of Awakening, the last step of the 16 Step teaching in the Mindfulness of Breathing and in the 10th of the Parami- the Perfections of the Heart. Doug and Jon discuss the various facets of this important quality.…

1
Letting Go Again: The Unquenchable Thirst 24:15

12M ago24:15

24:15

How can we work with our thirst for clinging and identification that seems unquenchable? We will discuss various aspect of letting go related to desire and thirst. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
More on Letting Go 23:26

1y ago23:26

23:26

We can't let go of letting go so we continue discussion from the prior episode. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
Insights into Insight , and a New Platform 28:01

1y ago28:01

28:01

What is Insight (Vipassana) practice? Doug and Jon discuss its origins and how it orients our approach to the dharma. They also discuss some exciting potential developments with livestreaming the podcast. Book: Erik Braun, The Birth of Insight Our new YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8HnYof8CejuOkLsr86EjRQ Support the show Go to o…

1
Is Your Livelihood Right Livelihood? 26:11

1y ago26:11

26:11

Right Livelihood is one of the factors of the Buddha's Eightfold Noble Path. Of course, times have changed in the last 2500 years, so what does this mean today? Doug and Jon look at the teaching and do some head-scratching over certain parts of it. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and link…

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