In episode 2-3 of Shorts:  Daoist “magic” wasn’t just movie myth — it was central in much of Daoist history, especially in the ritual and sectarian traditions found in the Daoist Canon. In this episode, Master Steenrod explains how the term “sage” might even be read as “wizard,” and why Daoist practice evolved from esoteric power into a guide for everyday life. Along the way, we explore the concept of ling (numinous power) and the Daoist idea that those with greater ability have the responsibility to uplift society. A revealing look at how Daoism bridges mystical practice, moral responsibility, and daily living. 

In this episode, 2-2, of LTT Shorts, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explores why most live by “rules of thumb” while a few chase divine truth—and why only an inner calling makes the journey worth it.
Master Steenrod contrasts the everyday “rules of thumb” that guide most people through life with the Daoist pursuit of divine truth—an alignment with reality as it truly is. He explains why such a quest demands refining the whole self, not just thinking harder, and why only those with a deep, inner compulsion should undertake it. For the rare few, truth is more than knowledge—it is power, offering options and freedom beyond ordinary living. 

Episode 1-138 — Nature, Illusion, and Truth

What if your search for truth started with the forest—not the feed?

In this quietly provocative episode, Master Steenrod examines nature as a Daoist testing ground for reality, and contrasts it with the illusion cycles of modern social media. From ancient practices like Biguan to the digital age’s disorienting effects, this conversation weaves timeless Daoist insights with present-day relevance.

We explore:

• Why nature is considered a manifestation of the Dao

• How illusion thrives where truth has no feedback loop

• Daoist views on death—and why they still chase immortality

• The emotional damage of living in purely social constructs

• Whether modern minds are even capable of using technology wisely

A vital episode for those feeling disoriented in today’s noise—this one’s about finding clarity in the unchanging rhythm of the natural world.

Welcome to the premiere episode of Living the Tao Shorts, the newest addition to the Living the Tao family!

Taoism isn’t about waiting for the afterlife—it’s about mastering life, right here, right now. In this kickoff short, we explore how Taoism stands apart from systems built on judgment or salvation. Instead of telling you what to believe, it gives you tools—methods—for living well, staying healthy, and creating a life that fits you.

Drawing contrasts with ancient Egyptian death rituals and Western systems that don’t always serve the individual, this episode reframes Taoism as a grounded, observation-based approach to human well-being.

Whether you’re looking for peace, clarity, or just a better way to live—this is a place to begin.

In episode 1-134 of Living the Tao, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod explains what truly defines Taoism—not as a rigid religion of unchanging texts and gods, but as a dynamic human method that evolves with time. Discover how Taoism rejects absolute divine authority in favor of adaptable practice, why texts are only partial references, and how personal integration is the goal—not obedience to rules. From shamanistic roots in supernatural combat to modern Qi Gong, this episode is an accessible yet deep look at Taoist history, philosophy, and the journey to becoming your whole self. 

In Episode 1-130, we explore the two core paths Taoism offers, why most people are drawn to one over the other, and how your everyday life may be the key to unlocking deeper power. Plus: why Taoism doesn’t promise an afterlife—and why that matters.

This episode features a walk and talk video, for those preferring that format.

Episode 1-125: The True Meaning of Yin and Yang

Everyone thinks they know yin and yang—but beneath the pop culture symbol lies a mystery that shaped the very fabric of Taoist cosmology. In this episode, Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod lifts the veil on one of the most misunderstood symbols in spiritual history.

More than a balance of opposites, yin and yang represent the hidden structure of how the Dao becomes reality—through the descent of the Ching, a rarely discussed symbolic layer that bridges energy and matter. Learn why the swirling symbol once included dragons, why its orientation changed under Confucian influence, and how its true meaning could change how you see the universe—and yourself.

🌒 For seekers drawn to the hidden and profound, this episode reveals the symbolic key that unlocks the architecture of existence.

What fills your cup—and what coats it in dust?

In this free monthly episode of Living the Tao, Master Steenrod dives into two essential metaphors from Daoist thought: the vessel and the red dust. You'll hear how the "filled cup" reflects our capacity to give, learn, and grow—and why sometimes, we must empty ourselves before receiving anything new.

But the episode doesn't stop there. As the walk continues, we step into the deeper terrain of the “red dust”—an ancient metaphor for the social forces that cling to us simply by existing in society. What is the social mind? Can we resist it? And what does true liberation mean in the modern age?

Whether you're new to Daoism or walking the path already, this is a conversation about self-care, choice, and awakening in a world that doesn’t stop trying to fill your cup for you.

BONUS Episode 6 – The Call to Wu Wei

Why do some of us feel an unexplainable pull toward something deeper—toward the flow?

In this bonus episode, we go beyond pop-philosophy and into the lived, raw terrain of Wu Wei, one of Daoism’s most iconic yet misunderstood concepts. While modern culture likes to equate Wu Wei with “flow state,” the truth is far more layered. We peel back the linguistic drift, social media buzzwords, and surface-level interpretations to return to the source: the old-school Daoist practices rooted in physical discipline, internal alchemy, and spiritual transformation.

Together, we ask:

• What is Wu Wei really, and how has its meaning changed?
• Can you train for Wu Wei—or must it arise naturally?
• Why do some people chase the Dao, while others walk away?
• How do questions themselves become the first steps on the path?

Whether you’ve glimpsed the Dao before or are just starting your journey, this episode invites you to examine your motivations, recognize the illusions of control, and maybe—just maybe—begin the long walk toward true alignment.

✨ “You don’t get the magical flow without being highly accurate. And accuracy starts with asking real questions.” ✨

Taoist resources: https://linktr.ee/taoismforthemodernworld

Welcome to Living the Tao with Taoist Master Mikel Steenrod. In Episode 1-117, we journey into one of the most meaningful yet often misunderstood aspects of life: friendship. Through the gentle but incisive lens of Taoist philosophy, Master Steenrod invites us to explore how friendships arise, how they evolve, and how they affect the path of inner stillness and natural living.

Friendship, in the Taoist view, is not merely about emotional attachment or shared history. It is a dynamic interplay of resonance, presence, and release. In this episode, you’ll discover how Taoism encourages a view of friendship that’s rooted in flow rather than expectation, sincerity rather than performance, and alignment rather than obligation.

Expect insights on:

• The natural phases of connection and disconnection
• Why forcing closeness disrupts harmony
• How real friendship supports, rather than hinders, your connection to the Tao
• Letting go of relationships that no longer serve you

Whether you're seeking clarity in your personal relationships or simply wish to deepen your understanding of Taoist living, this episode offers guidance, presence, and gentle wisdom.