The Courageous Life

On the Transformative Power of Equanimity | Margaret Cullen


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There is an internal strength of mind and heart that is characterized by 

non-reactivity and clear seeing. 

It is a strength that holds the power to help us navigate the biggest challenges in our lives —

not by ignoring them,

not by reacting to them in destructive ways, 

But rather by being present with, and open to, all the very real struggles of being human 

without being hijacked by them. 

In her new book, Quiet Strength: Find Peace, Feel Alive, and Love Boundlessly Through the Power of Equanimity

Revered meditation teacher and licensed psychotherapist Margaret Cullen

Speaks to how how we can grow our capacity for equanimity. 

For 3 years Margaret took a deep dive into Equanimity. 

Meeting with leading neuroscientists, 

psychologists, 

faith leaders, 

meditation teachers, 

and even a politician,

All to explore equanimity’s promise. 

Which she writes:

"Is expansiveness. An ability to love life in all it’s poignancy; 

To fearlessly let go of self-limiting definitions; 

and to see in sadness, fear and anger some of the same signs of being 

ferociously alive we feel in delight connection and awe. 

Equanimity is our capacity to be 

tender-hearted without sentimentality, 

vulnerable without weakness, 

wise without detachment, 

humble without diffidence, 

and to surrender without passivity."

Today we’ll explore this promise.

The very real possibility of meeting life’s challenges from a place of grounded wisdom, 

And growing the quiet strength needed to create a better world. 

For more on Margaret, her books, teaching, live events, and other offerings please visit margaretcullen.com

And to preorder your copy of Quiet Strength (coming in March 2026) please visit:

 https://margaretcullen.com/publications/book/quiet-strength

Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts!

Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:

  • On Ordinary Mysticism, Wonder, and Love | Mirabai Starr
  • On Choosing Love | Mark Nepo
  • On Work, Friendship, and Embracing Impermanence | Parker Palmer & Jerry Colonna

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