In this episode of 33 Strangers, host Michael Abney engages in a profound conversation with Alex Crenshaw, founder of the Zen Institute in Mount Shasta. They explore Alex's journey from corporate accounting to Zen training, the importance of understanding the subconscious mind, and the transformative power of meditation. Alex shares insights from his experiences working with children and inmates, emphasizing the need for human connection and the role of Zen in addressing societal issues. The discussion culminates in a call to action for listeners to follow their inner voice and embrace their unique missions in life. Takeaways Awakening often begins with a significant life change. Zen training emphasizes practice over theory. Human connection is essential for personal and societal healing. Meditation helps in understanding and mastering the mind. The subconscious mind plays a crucial role in our actions and decisions. Children and inmates can teach us about resilience and innocence. We attract the experiences we have in life. Understanding collective consciousness can enhance our empathy. Creating community requires trust and deeper connections. Following your passion can lead to unexpected support. Sound bites "We are walking antennas." "We are so powerful." "Life is gonna support you."