The Buddha Walks into a Bar...

A Guide to Life for a New Generation

By: Lodro Rinzler

Narrated by: Lodro Rinzler

Length: 5 hrs and 54 mins

Publisher's summary

This isn’t your grandmother’s book on meditation. It’s about integrating that "spiritual practice" thing into a life that includes beer, sex, and a boss who doesn’t understand you. It’s about making a difference in yourself and making a difference in your world - whether you’ve got everything figured out yet or not. Lodro Rinzler is a bright and funny young teacher with a knack for showing how the Buddhist teachings can have a positive impact on every little nook and cranny of your life - whether you’re interested in being a Buddhist or not.

©2012 Lodro Rinzler (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Enlightening

This is a great intro to meditation practice and what it can do for you. While some of the topics in the book are clearly aimed towards the 20-something crowd, I was able to identify with them from the vantage point of a 40-something.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone looking to find ways to reduce stress and be more present in their life. I've already started using this in my daily life to be more mindful.

very eye-opening and life-affirming

Mr. Rinzler writes an authentic and soulful take on Buddhism in the modern era for a modern person. He allows us to take a look inside and see the inherent goodness.

Very Good and Helpful Book.

I really liked the way the author explained concepts that are thousands of years old. The book is fresh, entertaining, and helpful. I love the sincerity of the author. I'm a psychologist and always want to verify that the book is psychologically sound. In deed it is. I liked that the author read the audio version. However, he frequently read too fast as if trying to get through. I turned the speed down to 90% and resolved this issue. This is a really nice book.

Great for beginners...and experts.

Enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the narrator who, though obviously not a professional narrator, did a wonderful and caring job - I found his slight hesitations and lack of polish charming at times. This book was brilliant in translating advance concepts for everyday Americans in contemporary society. Having read many 'advanced' books on Buddhism, I still found this book informative even though it was directed towards beginners.

Do Yourself a Favor

Set the playback speed to .80 or .85. It will make a world of difference. I simply could not process the spiritual and practical teachings of this book at the clipped rate the author originally narrates. Once I slowed it down, I could listen and absorb the content.

Great listen

Easy listen- wish I had a written outline so I’ll probably buy the book. Great for people new to the subject

great

loved it the author wrote the book in a very approachable and fun to listen to.

Pretty unorthodox approach to Buddhism - but good!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Buddha Walks into a Bar... to be better than the print version?

I did not read the print edition but since the narrator's voice and method of story telling was pretty entertaining... I'd say the audio version is a good choice.

What other book might you compare The Buddha Walks into a Bar... to and why?

In a pretty obscure way... I liken it to 4-Hour Work Week in that it's about designing your life to be better and more fulfilling. Both authors/narrators have a lighthearted approach.

It's nice to experience Buddhism from a source that sounds more like a conversation with an average (but wise) Joe as opposed to a monk speaking from the confines of a retreat does doesn't deal with our chaotic day to day lives. It makes me feel like I'm on the right track.

Which scene was your favorite?

I don't have a particular scene. It was very real world and a pleasure to listen to. I will probably listen to it again because the messages are good but sometimes you have to think about them a bit before they really register so unless you stop constantly to contemplate what was said... re-listening is probably your best bet.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Didn't shock me but those that believe Buddhism has to be done a certain way may be shocked at some things... such as eating meat & drinking... but the Buddhism I learned previously (and the author supports) is that you do what makes sense to you. After all... it's your Karma on the line.

Any additional comments?

Loved his approach and where he's coming from. Anyone would enjoy this from Buddhists to the Buddha-curious to the average person of any religion that has no idea what Buddhism is about.

Ugh

Hard to listen to the constant monotone opinion. I forced myself keep listening and it took months.

A welcome reminder

Like talking with an old friend who reminds us of the best in all of us. With insights for everyone from beginner to wise novice. The author whispers sage counsel of how the Buddhist teachings can apply to every aspect of modern life. There's no hiding.