In this wide-ranging interview, John Brady shares the extraordinary journey of his life — from his early experiences of social upheaval and spiritual awakening in the 1960s, through his long-standing engagement with Zen Buddhism, to his work with Geshe Michael Roach and the preservation of ancient Buddhist scriptures. His story is one of service, inner growth, and a deep commitment to spiritual practice.
Early Life and Awakening
Growing up in New York State during a time of intense cultural change, John experienced confusion, anger, and awakening as a teenager. Influenced by the social movements of the 60s, including civil rights, anti-war protests, and the rise of women’s liberation, he felt deeply affected by the political and social injustices around him. This period also marked the beginning of a spiritual search triggered by a broader rejection of conventional religion.
Discovering Zen and Meditation
John’s spiritual path began in earnest when a friend introduced him to a book by an American Roshi, which led him to begin meditating on his own. Later, by chance, he discovered the Zen Center of Rochester, founded by the very same Roshi. At the age of 19, he undertook intensive Zen training and began a serious meditation practice that became the foundation of his life for decades.
“We were singing the Heart Sutra. It was so primordially powerful that I was like, ‘Oh my God, is this what I’m really looking for?’”
— John Brady, interview at 15:53
Art, Career, and Balancing Worlds
Initially studying business administration, John shifted to photography and fine arts, eventually earning a scholarship to a pioneering art school in New York. He immersed himself in the art world while continuing his meditation practice, even as financial realities led him to drive a cab and later work in retail and fashion. He rose rapidly through the ranks of Lord & Taylor and later helped build a successful shirt company catering to professional women in New York.
“It was a magical time in New York. It was the art capital — still is — but it was just alive and innocent in a way.”
— John Brady, interview at 19:02
Entering the Corporate World and International Trade
John was recruited by a major direct mail company, where he created and led a special markets division. This new career led to extensive travel, especially to China, during its period of economic opening. He orchestrated massive product orders for major clients, including Revlon and Estee Lauder, sometimes dealing with costly logistical disasters — like 58,000 engraved rocks with the misspelled word “Contemptment”.
Consistent Spiritual Practice
Throughout his high-pressure corporate life, John remained committed to a rigorous daily meditation practice. He attended sittings twice a day — before and after work — and served on the board of his Zen center. However, a growing sense of inner suffering and an encounter with a new teacher would soon shift his path once again.
Meeting Geshe Michael Roach
A fellow board member at the Zen retreat introduced John to classes held by Geshe Michael Roach on West 39th Street in New York. Initially skeptical, John became involved in organizing a fundraising event and soon met Geshe Michael himself. That first meeting left a profound, unexplainable impact on John’s subtle body and consciousness — a shift he could not ignore. He began attending teachings and eventually took Bodhisattva vows with Geshe Michael in 1997.
“I thought, ‘What happened to me? What just happened to me?’ There was a complete subtle body shift. I didn’t understand it.”
— John Brady, interview at 58:40
Transition and Deepening Practice
John continued his engagement with Zen while studying Tibetan Buddhism under Geshe Michael. He later encountered Khen Rinpoche, which further deepened his spiritual practice. A conflict with his Zen teacher, who was involved in misconduct, led John to resign from the Zen board and shift fully to the lineage taught by Geshe Michael and ACI.
Asian Classics Institute and ACIP
John became involved in organizing the launch of the Asian Classics Input Project (ACIP), a major initiative to preserve Buddhist texts through digitization. He led fundraisers, built mailing campaigns, and helped spread ACI teachings. Reflecting on the ACI courses, John emphasizes their clarity, accessibility, and the transformative impact they had on his understanding of karma, emptiness, and authentic Buddhist philosophy.
From rebellious youth to respected spiritual leader and executive, John Brady’s life reflects the deep possibility of transformation through consistent spiritual practice and service. His story is a testament to the power of meeting the right teacher, engaging deeply with authentic teachings, and staying the course through decades of personal and professional evolution.
