Suffering Optional Podcast

Suffering Optional

Where DBT meets the Dharma

Join Diana Partington and co-host, Madeline Finn, for season 1 of their podcast: “Suffering Optional: Where DBT meets the Dharma”. Reduce your suffering through DBT skills and Buddhist wisdom. We’ll dive into mindfulness, dialectics and equanimity, overcoming cravings with the stop skill, practicing loving-kindness and compassion and so much more! Tune in for heartfelt conversations that offer practical tools and insights for navigating life’s challenges.

E1 dbt: the buddha’s brain child

In this first episode of Suffering Optional, Diana introduces the basics of DBT and how it helps manage emotions, while Madeline connects it to Buddhist psychology. They discuss “Buddha nature”—our innate ability to free ourselves from suffering—laying the foundation for blending DBT skills with Buddhist wisdom. Click here to learn more.

E2 meditation myths busted

In the second episode of Suffering Optional, Diana and Maddie explore mindfulness as a practice, addressing common misconceptions and how to get started. They highlight the idea that anything can serve as a meditation anchor, from colors to everyday sensations, and discuss trauma-informed approaches. Mindfulness takes practice, and choosing your own anchor is key. Click here for more information about the episode and extra learning opportunities.

E3 wise mind: the dbt jedi skill

In Episode 3 of Suffering Optional, Diana and Madeline explore the “middle path” through DBT and Buddhist philosophy, centering on the concept of Wise Mind—a balanced state that honors both emotion and logic. Using stories, including the Buddha’s journey from luxury to asceticism, they illustrate how extremes often fail to bring fulfillment, with Wise Mind offering a grounded, mindful alternative. They delve into the benefits of this balanced approach for handling life’s complexities and close with actionable steps, encouraging listeners to identify their current mind state and make Wise Mind-driven choices that foster inner freedom and resilience. Click to listen and learn more.

E4 pause and pivot

In this episode of Suffering Optional, we dive into the “Stop” skill from DBT to address cravings and reactive behavior. When an urge arises, like wanting to snap at a family member or reach for a cigarette, using “Stop” helps us pause, breathe, and observe what’s happening internally. We expand our understanding of these action urges but exploring the Buddhist concept of three types of Cravings (that are the root of all suffering). We also explore the difference between Craving and Wholesome Desire.

E5 facts vs opinions

Ready to see your everyday experiences in a whole new light? In Episode 5, we dive into the art of noticing what’s pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral—and why that matters. This isn’t just about mindfulness; it’s about learning how to create space between yourself and your reactions. We’ll explore the DBT “describe skill” too. Separating facts from opinions can keep us grounded and out of emotional whirlpools. It’s a practical, down-to-earth episode that’s all about shifting your perspective, finding clarity, and learning to enjoy the present moment, no strings attached. Join us and discover how a few simple skills can make a big difference in how you handle life’s ups and downs.