Today’s guest is David Nichtern, a senior Buddhist teacher who has been practicing and teaching meditation for over 40 years. He is also a highly regarded, award winning composer, producer and guitarist, as well as the founder of two record companies. David has recorded and played with Stevie Wonder, Jerry Garcia, Paul Simon and many others. And to round out his background, he’s also a business consultant and author of the book, Creativity, Spirituality and Making a Buck — which is what we discuss today.  David’s grasp of spirituality, mindfulness, music and entrepreneurship make him a unique animal, so to speak. The underlying principle of this book is that it’s possible to move toward balance, prosperity, happiness, and basic sanity in our lives as human beings. The core of the operating system that will get us there is recognizing how our minds work and how the world works to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. He shares useful advice and practical tools for integrating all of who we are.  Check out his programs at dharmamoon.com  More on David. His mix of buddhism and music give him a unique perspective on creativity. He looks at the different ways that we humans define success.  The principles he lays out in the book include cultivating clarity, intention and effort; success and contentment; surviving vs. thriving; authenticity and integrity. He also suggests many interpersonal skills that will support ‘right livelihood’ or ethical conduct. When offering insights on creativity in his book he says: Be daring, master your craft and consider a balance between patience, exertion and disciple and know when to let go.  His book is available at all major book sellers.  Get your 30 days of free meditations at choosemuse.com/meditationstudio.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices