Brenda Shoshanna, Ph.D., is a best-selling, award-winning author, playwright, speaker and psychologist, celebrated for her ability to blend Eastern wisdom with Western psychology. As a long-term practitioner of Zen and Judaism, Brenda’s work empowers individuals to transform their lives and embrace greater joy, peace, and fulfillment.
Her acclaimed books include: Zen and the Art of Falling in Love (Simon and Schuster), Zen Miracles: Finding Peace in an Insane World (Wiley), Fearless: Seven Steps to Peace of Mind, and The Anger Diet, which was recognized as one of the year’s best by Spirituality & Health. Brenda’s work has garnered praise from Marianne Williamson, Lama Surya Das, Publishers Weekly, and Tricycle, and has been translated into 18 languages.
Brenda has delivered over 500 transformative workshops and talks to Zen and interfaith communities, delving into spirituality, relationships, and personal growth. Her six-year podcast, Zen Wisdom for Your Everyday Life, garnered a devoted following, and she now reaches global audiences through her YouTube channel, DrBrendaShoshanna, and Substack newsletter, Zen by Brenda. Through her work, Brenda continues to inspire thousands of people around the world with practical insights and uplifting guidance for living with authenticity and purpose.
This one-on-one interview shares Brenda Shoshanna’s background and experience writing The Diary of A Zen Mama (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mama).
Tell us about The Diary of A Zen Mama (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mama).
The Diary of a Zen Mama (Who Turns Into a Jewish Mama) is a poignant and unforgettable memoir that takes readers on a profound journey of love, loss, and spiritual awakening.
At seventeen, Rebecca, a Hasidic Jew, leaves home for the first time to attend college and explore the world. Just ten weeks later, she shocks everyone by running away in a blizzard to marry her acting teacher, Lance—a man from a forbidden culture. Cast out by her family and her faith, Rebecca is forced to grapple with the challenges of love, identity, and self-discovery when Lance tells her that he can never make her happy, she must do that for herself.
Struggling to find her way, Rebecca turns to Zen teachings for solace. When she meets a charismatic Japanese Zen Master, her life takes a transformative turn. For the next forty-five years, his liberating lessons guide her through the turbulence of her marriage, motherhood, and an extraordinary reconciliation with her roots.
Through the tension of seemingly opposing worlds—Judaism and Zen—Rebecca discovers their profound connection, learning that both traditions uplift and empower one another like two wings of a bird.
An emotional, heartfelt memoir that weaves together themes of faith, family, and finding oneself, The Diary of a Zen Mama (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mama) is a testament to resilience, love, and the wisdom that emerges from life’s greatest challenges.
What inspired you to write The Diary of A Zen Mama (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mama)?
As a lifelong practitioner of both Zen and Judaism, and a mother of four, I was deeply inspired to share the profound beauty and wisdom these practices offer. Both traditions, when truly understood, illuminate and uplift one another, revealing their shared power to nurture new life—both within ourselves and in others.
My journey has shown me that our children are our greatest teachers, and that life itself is a guide, offering strength and clarity when we embrace its lessons. Through this book, I sought to share my most challenging, heart-wrenching moments alongside the uplifting, transformative experiences that have shaped me.
My hope is that readers will find inspiration in the intersections of faith, family, and personal growth, and discover a deeper connection to their own lives.
How did you feel when you found out you received a Book Excellence Award?
Winning a Book Excellence Award was both an inspiring and heartwarming experience, especially as it is a prestigious international honor. This recognition shines a global spotlight on my work, validating the book’s message and its ability to resonate with readers across cultures and borders. It’s a privilege to join the ranks of authors celebrated for their excellence, and I’m thrilled that this award amplifies the reach and impact of the story I’ve shared.
How did your background and experience influence your writing?
Over the years, my journey has been shaped by a deep desire to uncover the true meaning of life and to share that with others. Writing has allowed me to explore themes of struggle, triumph, and the profound longing for forgiveness—both of others and myself. In doing so, I’ve learned to embrace the beauty in all that has unfolded. With numerous books and plays to my name, writing has become the heartbeat of my life. It’s not just something I do; it’s something that has guided me, evolved with me, and enriched every day. Through my words, I’ve found a deeper connection to myself and to the world around me.
What is one message you would like readers to remember?
My hope is that readers will embrace the power of unity over division, putting aside judgment and conflict that often arise from differing religious and philosophical perspectives. It’s all too easy to focus on what separates us, but true transformation happens when we look beyond those differences. I want everyone to recognize the incredible healing potential found in both Zen and Judaism—and to see that these practices are accessible to all, offering profound peace and understanding that transcends boundaries.
Purchasing the Book
The Diary of A Zen Mama (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mama) has received positive reviews from well-known literary organizations, authors, and reviewers around the world. Rabbi Jacob Kutuschenko Gurfinkiel writes, “The insights and storytelling are so captivating that I could hardly put it down…this book truly brings light to the world.” In addition, author Michiko J. Rolek writes, “Brenda Shoshanna’s words are authentic, beautiful and meaningful… The Diary Of A Zen Mamma (Who Turns Into A Jewish Mamma) is enlightened reading.”
The book is available for sale on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Kobo. Readers are encouraged to purchase their copy today: https://www.amazon.com/Diary-Zen-Mama-Brenda-Shoshanna-ebook/dp/B0DPRB76DX
To connect with Brenda and learn more about her transformative teachings on life, love, and relationships, visit her website at: https://www.jewishzenmamma.com.
To gain timeless wisdom from world scriptures and explore practical insights that will empower you to overcome daily challenges, dissolve conflict and depression, subscribe to Brenda’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnVZGn7w9nNYXahTpVhnWUA
For more inspiration and guidance on integrating East and West in your journey towards a peaceful, fulfilled life, subscribe to Brenda’s email newsletter, ZenbyBrenda: https://brendashoshanna.substack.com/
You can also find Brenda on Instagram, LinkedIn and X.
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