Podcaster, author, and former ABC reporter and anchor, Dan Harris, has a tattoo, FTBOAB which stands for the Buddhist expression, “For the benefit of all beings”. As a regular listener of his 10% Happier podcast, I love that wide angle view of purpose. It connects me to a greater sense of what we can do when we up our game to be in it as a team. It reminds me to take a step back from my narrow self-interested view to see the bigger picture.

Thinking about the bigger picture inspired me to enumerate the cumulative effect of Dan Harris as an example of the impact of one person. He’s put out 930 episodes of his podcast that aims to provide “world class insights and practices from experts in modern science and ancient wisdom.” In addition, he’s written books and done Ted talks in the aim of “operationalizing practical wisdom.”

Just off the top of my head, I could list two dozen individual podcast episodes that have made an impact on my life and thinking. But more than that, what has tuning to someone who is trying to work for the benefit of all beings done for me over time?

1. Helped Me Understand the Power of Vulnerability

Dan Harris regularly tells the story of having an on-air panic attack. I’m sure recounting that episode is not fun. But it works to open up the channel of why doing our work is important. It gives all the meditations and experts that he brings onto the show a flavor of authenticity because Dan is willing to be real.

2. It’s Increased My Use of the Word Capacious

I’ll admit I never used the word capacious before listening to 10% Happier. It wasn’t part of my lexicon. Left to my own devices, I’d probably use expansive. But the funny part of the intimacy of a podcast is that you pick up some of the words of the host. It underscores why listening to shows that match who you want to be matters.

3. I’ve Learned

The combination of meditation, journalism and research works for me. The solid line-up of thoughtful guests with interesting research means I’m always learning something.

My meditation practice has helped me to surf the waves of life on a daily basis for the past 15 years so I don’t need much encouragement to keep at it. But my professional expertise is in how groups collaborate and I am raising two young kids. Both of these jobs benefit from insight into how humans work. Dan and his guests have given me so many nuggets like hearing from Father Gregory Boyle that “people change when cherished.” Or learning from Professor Ian Robertson that “confidence bridges the uncertainty that’s inherent in the future.” It all helps me know how to be a better human in order to do my best job for the benefit of all beings.

4. It’s Been Good Company

I’ve heard Dan say several times that we shouldn’t worry alone. Dr. Sanjay Gupta had an interesting response to him that was something like “what if my worries are not fit to be heard by others?” Isn’t that a relatable worry about worrying? Knowing that other people are worrying too is like shining light on something that only thrives in the dark. It’s healing and powerful.

5. I’ve been inspired

Series of podcasts like how to be sanely ambitious, or focusing on nutrition or networking have been well-rounded nudges on how to do better without going crazy. The net effect of the good programming done with depth, grounded research, and right intention is tremendously inspiring.

And here’s one of my best compliments ever – Dan’s style reminds me of my Presbyterian pastor father. He can let his guests be who they are without leaving behind who he is. No one has to be a Buddhist or even a meditator to come on to or listen to the show. It’s just good information with a growth mind-set.

Isn’t it amazing what a person can do, especially when they are focused on the benefit for all beings? It’s inspiring to know setting intentions does matter. I know that I’m just one person listing how Dan Harris’ work landed for me — so imagine the true cumulative impact of Dan Harris. And then carry that further and imagine the magnitude of the impact of all of us working for the benefit of all beings. Unstoppable. FTBOAB.

And while I keep crediting Dan individually, that’s said knowing that there are a lot of people contributing to this impact including his wife, Bianca Harris, his executive producer, DJ Cashmere, his meditation teacher, Joseph Goldstein, and all the contributors from the Insight Meditation Society. Much thanks and admiration for the entire team!

(featured photo is mine)

I’m a writer, host of Sharing the Heart of the Matter – an author and storytelling podcast, and parent of two young children. I help companies achieve organizational efficiency through collaboration, and speak about creativity and AI through the Chicago Writer’s Association.

You can find me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynneleon/ and Instagram @wynneleon