Can We Ever Get a Break From Work? | WSBW 09

Zach finally lands a new job and Jeff talks about the need for solitude for spiritual practice and creative work. He mentions the idea of a secular monastery or hermitage to give western spiritual seekers a place of refuge away from the working world to focus on life's biggest questions.

Detailed Summary:

In this conversation, Zach and Jeff discuss their week and recent experiences. They talk about the solar eclipse, the challenges of repeating old music as a musician, and Jeff's recent freelance scam encounter. They also touch on the changing dynamics of the music industry and the challenges of finding work in the creative arts field.

The conversation explores the challenges of finding a balance between personal and professional life, especially in creative fields. It discusses the difficulty of breaking through in competitive industries and the lack of a middle class of creators. The hosts share their experiences of job interviews and the relief of finally finding employment.

They also discuss the desire for solitude and the appeal of a monastic lifestyle to focus on personal growth and creativity. However, they acknowledge the challenges of finding affordable opportunities for retreat and self-reflection outside of religious institutions.

In this conversation, Jeff and Zach discuss the concept of spiritual awakening and the search for meaning outside of traditional religious structures. They explore the idea of creating secular monasteries or retreats for individuals seeking solitude and introspection.

They also touch on the challenges faced by freelancers and gig workers in finding time for rest and rejuvenation. The conversation delves into the importance of art and creativity in their lives, and the role of media in shaping perspectives and connecting with others. They conclude by sharing their recent inspirations, including a documentary series on art and a personal getaway to a small town. Thrash on!

Links Mentioned:

🎵 Jeff's BOXOMYLK music ALL 12 Albums LIVE!
🌐 Jeff's website
🎸 Garbage - Live in 2023
🎸 ZZ Top Live
📺 Seinfeld - J. Peterman
🎤 Jack Conte, Founder of Patreon - SXSW 2024 Keynote
🤲 Jeff's Article on the Simian Line in Palmistry
🦥 Secular Monasteries - The Wise Sloth
🧘 Secular Monasteries for an Awakened Public
🐦‍⬛ Raven's Bread Ministries
📺 Severance TV Show
🌳 Avatar Movie
👁️ John Berger's Ways of Seeing (1972)
🎥 Brainwashed: Sex Camera Power (2023)
📚 John Berger: Why We Look at Animals
🍽️ Pêche Restaurant in Palisade, CO

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
15:40 Jeff's Freelance Scam
26:28 Zach Gets a New Job!
35:30 The Pressure on Men to Work and Provide
45:40 Authenticity in the Work/Life Balance
48:35 Solitude, Retreats, and Secular Monasteries
1:05:05 Jeff's Spiritual Quest and Road Trip Inspirations
1:16:56 Inspirations for the Week