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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.

This special episode features a deep conversation about Vietnamese identity in the diaspora, led by Zen Buddhist monk Brother Phap Huu, scholar Nho Tran, and acclaimed novelist Ocean Vuong.

The discussion explores Vietnameseness, the complexities of being Vietnamese in the West, and the challenges of maintaining cultural identity while adapting to new environments. The three speakers reflect on their personal journeys; the role of Buddhism in shaping their understanding of identity; the need to reject binary thinking and embrace the multifaceted nature of Vietnamese identity; the practice of joy; communal healing; the significance of filial piety; the role of language and tradition in preserving cultural heritage; honoring one’s roots while allowing for personal growth; and more.

With an intro by Jo Confino and a short meditation guided by Brother Phap Huu.

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

Ocean Vuong
https://www.oceanvuong.com/

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

The Plum Village Tradition
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plum_Village_Tradition

The Way Out Is In: ‘Cultivating Joy and Togetherness in the Midst of Hardship (Episode #95)’ https://plumvillage.org/podcast/cultivating-joy-and-togetherness-in-the-midst-of-hardship-episode-95

The Way Out Is In: ‘Roots and Renewal (Episode #91)’
https://plumvillage.org/podcast/roots-and-renewal-episode-91

The Way Out Is In: ‘Spiritual Friendship (Episode #90)’
https://plumvillage.org/podcast/spiritual-friendships-episode-90

Maya Angelou
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_Angelou