ZENECIST™ CHRONICLES | Stories From An OG* In Search of Tomorrow

Embracing Change and Finding Home | Zenecist Chronicles

Join host Tom Lanen in Episode 2 of Season 4 of Zenecist Chronicles as he reflects on his life journey, from his initial marriage and career milestones to his recent adventures. Despite facing a painful divorce after 42 years of marriage, Tom shares his resilience and pursuit of new memories. He candidly discusses his wandering lifestyle, living in an Airstream, and the wisdom gained from 20 months on the road. Now, Tom looks forward to settling in Athol, Massachusetts, near his brother, and finding a place to truly call home. Tune in as Tom takes inventory of his life and embraces his latest chapter with optimism and gratitude.

00:00 Intro

00:18 Facing Life's Challenges

00:35 Introduction to Zenecist Chronicles Season Four

01:16 A Day at the Beach

01:46 Reflections on Wandering and Podcasting

05:09 Finding a New Home Base

09:34 Looking Ahead

11:01 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Join Zenecist Chronicles Host Tom Lanen as he ruminates about his changing life living in an Airstream in Myrtle Beach SC with his new pup Thich. He talks about how it feels being recently divorced after 42 years married; and how he's found living, coping, and happiness tools in the zen practices of Thich Nhat Hanh.

Then, he narrates an easy, step-by-step recipe for his friend Chef Michael’s mouth-watering Chicken Pot Pie. Utilizing simple ingredients and store-bought crusts, this recipe ensures a delicious homemade meal without the fuss. You can adapt the recipe for turkey or beef as well. Tom also offers tips for making your own flavorful chicken stock, safely cutting vegetables, and creating a smooth roux. Finish off your pot pie with a golden crust and enjoy!

Introduction

- Tom’s back story: the zen of divorce and being a dad

- Qigong Tai Chi Course: if you are interested in this beginner’s course, please attend Rick’s Thursday afternoon session at 3 PM ET on Zoom (Free, donations accepted) SPACE IS LIMITED: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86912932262?pwd=N0xSRjlNMC9BU21qempvOFRpMWk5QT09

Chef Michael's Chicken Pot Pie

EQUIPMENT

- Large soup pan

- Large cooking spoon

- Strainer or colander to drain stock

- Chef's knife

- Cutting board

- Carrot/vegetable peeler

- 2-9" pie plates

- Liquid measuring cup

- Teaspoon measure

INGREDIENTS

- 4 crusts (2 tops, 2 bottoms)

- Deli broiler chicken (already cooked in-store)

- Fresh thyme

- Bag of carrots

- 4-6 potatoes

- Celery

- Salt, pepper

- 1-3 onions

- Better Than Bouillon—Chicken-Flavored

- 1/2 cup flour

- 1 cup cold water

- 2 tablespoons oil

- Rough cut half of the vegetables a& throw into the stew pot leaving the skins on and using the tops of the celery

- Take the big pieces of chicken off your roaster and put aside

- Put skins, bones and non-edible parts of the chicken into the same pan with your rough cut vegetables

- Cover with good water and let simmer an hour or so until vegetables are all mushy

- Use a colander or strainer and strain all the veggies and chicken bones and - Put the chicken vegetable stock aside

- Take the skins off your remaining potatoes, carrots, cut into small pieces and throw into your stew pan with the remainder of your vegetables including your favorites such as peas or corn (and I use fine cut onions and garlic cloves).

- Add a couple tablespoons of oil, turn up heat and let simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly

- Add your strained homemade chicken vegetable stock to the vegetables and let simmer about 10 minutes

- Season with salt and pepper and add 2 to 3 teaspoons of chicken flavored Better Than Bouillon, tasting your mixture as you add it; it is VERY salty, but it also adds delicious flavors

- Once your vegetables are done to your satisfaction, you add a flour and water mixture called a Roux. To make the roux you add flour to very cold water and stir thoroughly. Once you have a nice smooth mixture, slowly drizzle into your stew pan and observe how it thickens

- You want to make a texture that is a little thicker than gravy

- Add and combine the chicken pieces making sure all bones have been removed to avoid a choking hazard

- Prepare your pie crusts and fill to the top

- Cover with top crust and crimp edges to seal both crusts together

- Brush the top of the pie with milk, so it browns nicely

- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until top crust is golden brown

- Serve and leftover pie filling on toast points: "Chicken a la King"

In this emotional quick recording, host Tom Lanen, accompanied by his friend Thich, shares a powerful message of gratitude and resilience. Reflecting on a past challenging holiday season, Tom recounts how a poem read by Reverend Jason at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Springfield, MA uplifted his spirits. He introduces 'The Moment of Magic' by Victoria Safford, a poem that speaks of finding light and magic in the darkest of times.

Tom encourages listeners to share the poem and its uplifting message with others who may be going through their own dark times. He wishes everyone a joyful and love-filled holiday season. Happy Solstice!

The Moment of Magic by Victoria Safford

Now is the moment of magic, when the whole, round earth turns again toward the sun,

and here’s a blessing: the days will be longer and brighter now,even before the winter settles in to chill us.

Now is the moment of magic, when people beaten down and broken ,with nothing left but misery and candles and their own clear voices ,kindle tiny lights and whisper secret music,

and here’s a blessing: the dark universe is suddenly illuminated by the lights of the menorah, suddenly ablaze with the lights of the kinara, and the whole world is glad and loud with winter singing.

Now is the moment of magic, when an eastern star beckons the ignorant toward an unknown goal,

and here’s a blessing: they find nothing in the end but an ordinary baby, born at midnight, born in poverty, and the baby’s cry, like bells ringing, makes people wonder as they wander through their lives, what human love

might really look like,

sound like,

feel like.

Now is the moment of magic,

and here’s a blessing: we already possess all the gifts we need; we’ve already received our presents:ears to hear music, eyes to behold lights, hands to build true peace on earth and to hold each other tight in love.

Season 3 Premier! Having run into a wall after 2 seasons of Zenecist Chronicles, I had an epiphany during a recent holiday to Lisbon. This first episode of season 3 talks to how I'm evolving Zenecist Chronicles into a travelog featuring exceptional Gen Z seekers and cool music and venues I run into on my search for tomorrow. This episode also features a discussion with Francisco, a 23-year old Lisbon freestyle skateboarder and a live performance from Selma Uamusse at Club b. leza in Lisbon

Exploring Gen-Z Realities: Life, Expectations, and the Current Landscape

Join host Tom Lanen and his friend and protégé, Ty Reidy from Emerson College in Boston, in the latest episode of Zenecist Chronicles to discuss Gen-Z expectations in today's rapidly changing world. From personal anecdotes about life in Massachusetts to the broader impact of COVID-19 on social dynamics and economic realities, this episode delves into the unique challenges faced by the younger generation. Ty shares insights on adapting to post-pandemic social structures, the evolving job market, and the high cost of education. The episode also touches on political activism, media biases, and the role of mainstream and alternative news sources. With a mix of humor and candor, Tom and Ty navigate these complex topics to offer a thoughtful and enlightening conversation. Featuring a special look into a head-banging performance and setlist by Stone Temple Pilots at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA on September 5, 2024.

00:00 Introduction to Zenecist Chronicles

00:25 Tom and Ty's Backgrounds

00:36 Discussing the Podcast's Direction

01:02 Name Change and Today's Reality

02:51 Tom's Goth Nails Adventure

06:31 Reflections on Friendship and Support

07:39 College Life and Post-COVID Challenges

12:27 Generational Expectations and Economic Struggles

16:31 Political Climate and Social Issues

19:55 Protests and Free Speech Zones

20:40 Generational Activism and Reflections

22:19 Media Bias and News Consumption

31:47 AI and the Future of Work

33:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

35:15 Look into Stone Temple Pilots Live Performance

Zenecist Chronicles Special Edition: The Hobo Cookbook & Post Malone Experience

Join Tom Lanen in this special edition of Zenecist Chronicles where he reflects on past episodes addressing Gen-Z loneliness and introduces his 'Hobo Cookbook.' Learn how to create a simple yet delicious barbecue dry rub with common spices. Additionally, Tom shares his unforgettable experience at a Post Malone concert, highlighting the artist's exceptional performance and kindness. Stick around for concert footage and memories that will leave you inspired.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:29 Reflecting on Zenecist Chronicles

01:25 Cooking with Tom: The Hobo Cookbook

02:22 Essential Spices for Delicious Meals

05:04 Making the Perfect Dry Rub

11:37 Post Malone Concert Experience - Xfinity Center, Summer 2023

HOBO COOKBOOK: MUST HAVE SPICES

Do not have to be name brand spices - store brand works!.

Ground Pepper

Salt

Onion Powder

Garlic Powder

Cumin

Ginger

Coriander

Turmeric

Sweet baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce (I prefer Spicy ’N Sweet, but some like hickory)

Sriracha Sauce (or any hot sauced you like)

Honey

Maple Syrup

Fruit Syrups )I love Blueberry)

HOBO COOKBOOK DRY RUB

Proportion Spice

2 Ground Pepper

1.5 Salt

1.0 Cane or Raw Sugar

Spice dispenser shakes (salt shaker top)

4-6 Onion Powder

3-5 Cumin

3-4 Garlic Powder

1-2 Ginger

2 Coriander

1 Tumeric

Mix and store in sandwich bag or small jar. Mix should be light to medium brown.

Experiment - this is a base recipe you can alter to your tastes!

USE ON: Steak, hamburgers, chicken, fish, veggies - cover with dry rub and let marinate in refrigerator at least 1+ hours overnight ensures full flavor.

Navigating Life Changes and Finding Balance: Conversations with Deshawn Adler | Zenecist™ Chronicles

Join Tom Lanen on this episode of Zenecist Chronicles as he interviews Deshawn Adler, a young, curious soul with exciting personal news. Deshawn shares his journey from aspiring Air Force pilot to pursuing a career in residential electrical work. He discusses the impact of COVID-19 on his education and career trajectory, the importance of adaptability, and the value of maintaining a work-life balance. The episode also touches on Deshawn's passion for recreational activities, his experiences with loneliness, and his budding interest in teaching. Enjoy insightful conversations, moments with Spudly the dog, and reflections on the unpredictability of life.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:34 Meet Deshawn Adler

01:00 Deshawn's Journey and Challenges

05:10 Career Shifts and New Paths

07:29 Future Aspirations and Reflections

14:37 Look into Cage The Elephant Show at Xfinity Center 2024

In the premiere episode of Season 2, host Tom Lanen introduces the new focus of the podcast, Zenecist Chronicles, now dedicated to discussing what Gen-Z can expect as they transition into older adulthood. Tom is joined by Ty Reidy, a freshman at Emerson College, as they delve into the complex issues of loneliness, social isolation, political divisiveness, and the challenges of Gen-Z. Through personal anecdotes and thoughtful discussions, they explore the generational differences and commonalities, while stressing the importance of open dialogue and community. Join us for an enlightening and heartfelt conversation.

00:00 Introduction to Zenecist Chronicles Season Two

00:44 Why Focus on Gen-Z?

01:53 Introducing Ty Reidy

03:38 The Impact of COVID on Gen-Z Loneliness

06:47 High School Struggles and Finding Acceptance

09:42 Political Divisiveness and Its Effects

17:32 Bridging the Gap Through Music

17:43 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

19:44 Musical Interlude: The Cure at Xfinity Center June 2023

A short poem to inspire and uplift your spirit during the holiday season

In this uplifting episode of Zenecist Chronicles, Tom Lanen shares his recent struggles and the rejuvenation he found through Unitarian Universalist communities. He recounts his experiences, explores the therapeutic practice of spending time in nature and the Japanese practice of Shrinrin-Yoko, and reflects on his ongoing battles with personal challenges, including divorce and addictions. Tom also discusses the importance of gratitude, courage, and serenity in overcoming life's difficulties. The episode concludes with a reading of Victoria Safford’s poem, 'The Moment of Magic,' offering a message of hope, joy and peace.

00:00 Welcome

00:47 Discovering Community

03:33 Reflections on Personal Struggles

06:39 Embracing Change

09:41 The Power of Courage and Serenity

13:54 A Moment of Magic by Victoria Safford: A Reading

16:06 Thank you for your support with the Zenecist GoFundMe page