Cultivating Authentic Intelligence (the Other AI)
Led by Dave Smith
In an age of algorithmic certainty and digital noise, we have entered a “crisis of meaning” where purpose feels like a relic of a forgotten world. While Artificial Intelligence processes information, Authentic Intelligence cultivates meaning.
This multi-day program is designed to help you get “untrapped.” It is a move away from the artificial and toward an “ecology of practices” that actually works. We aren’t looking for a single, simple fix; instead, we are conducting an honest inquiry into what it truly means to be human.
Dave will lead this exploration by blending three core perspectives:
Early Buddhist Texts: Investigating mindfulness in the Pali Canon for pragmatic tools to understand the mind’s function and purpose.
Affective Science: Shifting the view of emotions from things to be “managed” to the very grounds for transformation. Emotions are not obstacles; they are guides toward a life of deep contentment.
Existential Philosophy: Confronting the radical responsibility of our condition. By grappling with modern cultural critiques, we find a secular path toward freedom, moving beyond the urge to conform to social norms.
Through interactive teaching, shared dialogue, and extended practice, we will bridge contemplative discipline with our emotional lives.
Who Should Attend
This program is designed for both new and experienced practitioners seeking a rigorous, “no-nonsense” approach to living well. Participants from all backgrounds are welcome to join this journey from the digital to the analog.
Click here for a brief overview and introduction from the Instructor and workshop schedule.
This multi-day program is designed to help you get “untrapped.” It is a move away from the artificial and toward an “ecology of practices” that actually works. We aren’t looking for a single, simple fix; instead, we are conducting an honest inquiry into what it truly means to be human.
Dave will lead this exploration by blending three core perspectives:
Early Buddhist Texts: Investigating mindfulness in the Pali Canon for pragmatic tools to understand the mind’s function and purpose.
Affective Science: Shifting the view of emotions from things to be “managed” to the very grounds for transformation. Emotions are not obstacles; they are guides toward a life of deep contentment.
Existential Philosophy: Confronting the radical responsibility of our condition. By grappling with modern cultural critiques, we find a secular path toward freedom, moving beyond the urge to conform to social norms.
Through interactive teaching, shared dialogue, and extended practice, we will bridge contemplative discipline with our emotional lives.
Who Should Attend
This program is designed for both new and experienced practitioners seeking a rigorous, “no-nonsense” approach to living well. Participants from all backgrounds are welcome to join this journey from the digital to the analog.
Click here for a brief overview and introduction from the Instructor and workshop schedule.
Secular Dharma Foundation
This program was developed through the work of the Secular Dharma Foundation. The mission of the Secular Dharma Foundation (501c) is to foster the advancement of emotional and psychological well-being through the education and integration of mindfulness, psychology, nature-based programming, and various therapeutic modalities. We provide educational tools and resources, mindfulness and emotional skills training through online programs, podcasts, trainings, and retreats.
Program Details
Start Date:
End Date:
Categories:
Ghost Ranch Program
Healing And Wellness
Date & Time Details:
3:00 pm Check in
10:00 am Check out
10:00 am Check out
Location:
Ghost Ranch
Address:
280 Private Drive 1708, Abiquiu, NM, USA
Contact:
Programs
programs@ghostranch.org
505-685-1000
Email Us About Program
About the Leader
Dave Smith
Dave Smith is a Dharma teacher, international speaker, author, and founder of the Secular Dharma Foundation. Integrating three decades of Insight Meditation with early Buddhist teachings from the Pali Canon and contemporary psychology, he offers a pragmatic, secular framework for mindfulness, ethics, and self-awareness.
A former punk rock musician and recovering addict, Dave brings his anti-establishment roots to a 20-year career dedicated to resolving trauma and fostering deep engagement with life. Through mentoring and retreats, his work directly challenges the self-help industry’s “shame-based reality,” helping individuals navigate the unique struggles of the modern world with practical, grounded wisdom.
A former punk rock musician and recovering addict, Dave brings his anti-establishment roots to a 20-year career dedicated to resolving trauma and fostering deep engagement with life. Through mentoring and retreats, his work directly challenges the self-help industry’s “shame-based reality,” helping individuals navigate the unique struggles of the modern world with practical, grounded wisdom.