Virtual Forum: A Conversation with Author Ethan Nichtern

Join Steve Varley, Garrison Institute’s managing director, on July 9 for an engaging webinar featuring renowned Buddhist teacher and author Ethan Nichtern.

Ethan, known for his popular podcast “The Road Home” and acclaimed books such as The Road Home: A Contemporary Exploration of the Buddhist Path and The Dharma of the Princess Bride, will delve into the theme of Confidence — also the name of his new book — exploring how to navigate a relationship with the world with a spirit of assurance and resilience.

During this interactive session, Ethan will share teachings from his latest book, offering practical guidance for cultivating confidence amidst the uncertainties of our times. The webinar will include a live audience Q&A, providing participants with the opportunity to engage directly with Ethan’s approachable and profound insights.

This event serves as a precursor to Ethan’s in-person retreat at the Garrison Institute scheduled for September, where participants can further explore these themes in a serene and supportive environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable perspectives on building confidence and holding your seat during these challenging times.

Please join us for this interactive online Forum hosted by the Garrison Institute.

We will hold this live Forum on Zoom at 6:00 p.m. ET July 9, 2025. After registering, you will receive a link to join the session. Please email us at events@garrisoninstitute.org with questions.

SPEAKERS

Ethan Nichtern is a Senior Buddhist teacher, and is the author of the acclaimed book The Road Home: A Contemporary Exploration of the Buddhist Path which was selected as one of Library Journal’s Best Books of 2015, and one of Tech Insider’s “9 Books That Define 2015.” He is the author of three other books, and his new book Confidence: Holding Your Seat Through Life’s Eight Wordly Winds (available here).

Steve Varley serves as the Managing Director at the Garrison Institute. In this role, Steve is responsible for the comprehensive strategy and support of the Garrison Institute’s efforts to apply the wisdom developed from contemplative practice to modern problems, with a special interest on the translation of individual practice to community, organizational, and systems-level problems.

Steve’s previous experience includes leadership roles at prominent organizations such as National Public Radio (NPR) and the University of North Carolina. His leadership at UNC Pembroke resulted in record-breaking fundraising years and was defined by his orientation of service and partnership toward the local community and the Lumbee Tribe.

Steve also served as President of the UNC Pembroke Foundation, an independent organization with endowment management and fundraising responsibility, where he oversaw millions of dollars in annual grantmaking for students with financial need.

Previously, Steve served as associate dean of advancement at Yale University, completing a long term of service in health-related fundraising and global health initiatives. Prior to Yale, he was the vice president of development at Gardner-Webb University, where he spearheaded the Higher Ground capital campaign, the university’s most successful fundraising effort in its history.

Please contact us for questions and inquiries at events@garrisoninstitute.org.