Zen 101: An Introduction to the History, Teachings, and Practices of Zen with Billy Wynne
Sunday, September 14th | 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM | True Nature Kiva
Suggested Donation $50
We invite you to join Zen Buddhist and certified meditation teacher Billy Wynne for an immersive evening exploring the Zen tradition. Tracing its journey from ancient India, through its development in China and Japan, to its arrival on American shores in the 20th century, the story of Zen offers timeless inspiration, wisdom, and compassion for both practitioners and the simply curious.
While “Zen” is often referenced in popular culture, its authentic history, teachings, and practices remain unfamiliar to many U.S. audiences. Billy will offer a clear and engaging introduction to the essential elements of Zen history and their relevance to practice today. Drawing on core texts, we’ll explore traditional Zen wisdom, concluding with a guided training in key meditation techniques and shared practice.
After attending Zen 101, you will gain insight into:
Zen wisdom, texts, and ethics
How Zen relates to other Buddhist traditions
The pivotal phases of Zen history
The practice of Zen in the U.S.
Zen meditation techniques
Resources for continued study
Whether you’re curious about Buddhism or looking to deepen your meditation practice, this program offers a supportive foundation. It is also an ideal introduction for those interested in practicing with Roaring Fork Zen during our weekly Monday morning meditation sessions at True Nature.
A suggested donation of $50 helps cover program costs. Please register in advance.
Meet Billy Wynne
Billy Wynne is a long-time member of the Zen Center of Denver, where he received lay ordination in 2020 and currently serves on the board. He is also a certified teacher in the Vipassana meditation tradition.
Billy is the author of The Empty Path: Finding Fulfillment Through the Radical Art of Lessening, published by New World Library in March 2025, and is pursuing a Masters in Buddhist Studies at the Institute for Buddhist Studies in Berkeley.
A health and well-being entrepreneur, Billy founded Awake, an alcohol-free bar in Denver, and Impact Health, a mission-driven consultancy. He is an appointed member of Colorado’s Natural Medicine Advisory Board, which is implementing the state’s new psychedelic therapy program. Billy has also served on the boards of Operation Smile, Cherish Children Adoption International, and 365Health.
Billy received a B.A. from Dartmouth College and J.D. from UVA Law. For fun, he skis, travels with his family, and plays keyboard in improvisational rock bands. He recently moved to Carbondale with his wife, son, and two shih-poos, Oscar and Archie. Their daughter is in college. You can learn more about Billy at https://billywynne.com/
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This programming is brought to you by the Connection is the Medicine Foundation, a non-profit foundation dedicated to co-creating a world where individuals and communities thrive from a sense of inspiration, connection, and self-discovery. To learn more about our mission-driven work, the foundation, other programming experiences, and our founders, please visit www.connectionisthemedicine.com.
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SUPPORT OUR MISSION
Where Your Gift Makes a Difference
Because of your generosity, our 2025 programs are thriving. We’ve expanded offerings that nurture meaningful connection—through nature immersion, contemplative practices, youth development, caregiver support, and spiritual inquiry.
If you are interested in donating to support more programming like this, please visit our website: https://connectionisthemedicine.com/donate
or contact Valery Moore Kelly
Development Director
valery@connectionisthemedicine.com
970-948-0263
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At True Nature and Connection is the Medicine Foundation, we strive to create intentional, nourishing spaces and experiences for community connection and personal growth. To support a respectful and easeful experience for all, please view our Etiquette and Refund Policies, also listed below.
If you have any questions, you may contact Megan Miller, Director of Education and Programming at megan@connectionisthemedicine.com
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