New Kadampa Tradition: the aftermath 

Very good & accurate conversation, thank you both Jon & Michelle, hope you do updates on this cult.

Fantastic video. Well done to both of you, more wisdom here than I ever heard in a decade in the NKT!

Is there a part two? I've watched part one but can't find part two after a search. Very very helpful videos thank you.

Really enjoyed this!

I saw what was going on within 2 years. And challenged it when I could. There is a lot of benefit in the teachings. Where it goes wrong is how the organization is run. I truly believe that the 'leaders' think they are doing the right thing, but since there is no room for questioning any authority in the organization, issues are not addressed. I healthy group needs self criticism and reflection. And when the leaders are running around in their tantric mode, they think they are infallible buddhas. Under this delusion, much harm is done, with what could be a rather beneficial entity. I don't think the cult-like outcomes are intentional, I think they naturally form when groups are formed. It is a natural outcome that arises out of a circumstance where all the views are the same within the power structure. I left in 2005, because I was removed from the FP and TTP classes, after bringing up the issue of charging money for dharma. And when I did, I got an email dismissing me from those programs. And I was ordained. Hilarious. They make a mockery of Buddha's mandate of giving. Yet, they sing "'giving' and other perfections..." The NKT members know the turnover rates, and look at all the numbers. The organization seems to suck the energy out of its workers. They are no doubt abused via mind traps. The 'self cherishing' weapon is pulled out whenever it is needed to induce compliance. I never did the guru worship thing, but rather did the Dhamma worship thing. I still read Dhamma from all traditions and incorporate what works for me. I stay away from organizations. Buddhism is a true medicine, and I am not sure what NKT-ism is or does, but to call is Buddhism... well, I think that would be a generous label. I do not agree with much that is being said here, but it needs the topic needs to be addressed. It would be better served with a counter argument person present. The teachings helped me make more spiritual progress and in 2 years, then I had made in the previous 20 years on my own via reading. And if you side step the trappings - there is much benefit to be gathered there. But we should say, that the practitioners have issues too.

Really, really heartfelt and kind video, as well as offering insight you don't get in a lot of other places. Thank you both.

No, of course you can't sleep right after meditation. Meditation/mindfulness is a high attention activity. It activates the attentive mind. That's what it's meant to be. It's just as sleep inducing as doing computer work or a sports workout. So you don't do it before you want to go to sleep.