ASZC (VIP) - Very Interesting Person Interview: Darren (So Mushin) Simpson

Welcome to this Very Interesting Person Interview from the Atlanta Soto Zen Center. In this special conversation, Taiun Elliston Roshi sits down with Darren “So Mushin” Simpson, also known as The Backyard Buddhist, to explore spiritual practice, personal transformation, and the lived experience of Zen in the modern world. Recorded at the Atlanta Soto Zen Center on Sunday, July 5, 2026, this interview offers a warm and personal look at Darren’s journey from Christian ministry into Sōtō Zen priest training, his work within the Zen community, and his efforts to make Buddhist thought and practice accessible through writing, video, and community service. To learn more about the Atlanta Soto Zen Center, join Sunday practice online beginning at 9:00 a.m., or find visitor and membership information, please visit www.aszc.org. For more reflections, visit The Backyard Buddhist on Substack and YouTube. Gassho, and thank you for watching.