The New School is Commonweal’s learning community and podcast. Together, we explore life’s big questions, offering events and publications in Commonweal’s areas of focus: finding meaning in a changing world, growing inner and community resilience, advocating for justice, and stewarding the natural world.
Be in the room during conversations with inspiring thought- and action-leaders of our time. Explore life’s big questions in a “slow conversation” setting, reflect on different worldviews, and find connection in a welcoming community.
Part of the The Secret Body Series
In part 8 of this series, Michael Lerner talks with author Jeffrey Kripal about some of the key themes that weave through all of his books, especially exploring the nature of consciousness itself.
Jeffrey J. Kripal holds the J. Newton Rayzor Chair in Philosophy and Religious Thought at Rice University. In this series, Jeffrey talks with Host Michael Lerner about his body of work—more than 13 groundbreaking books about the mystical and the erotic, the relationship of mind and matter, and parapsychological phenomena.
Michael has been reading, talking, and meeting with Jeffrey for more than a year now, immersing himself in the consciousness worldview that Jeffrey presents in his books and teaching. Follow Michael’s journey through these conversations.

Join live gatherings—online or in person—to share stories, reflect, and build community. From famous to quietly fabulous, our speakers and hosts are doing inspiring things in the world, and every voice is welcome.

Saturday, April 11
11 am – 1 pm PDT
In Commonweal Library or on Zoom
$20 suggested donation, no one turned away
What is healing, really—below the story or journey, and even beyond any meaning? After Dr. Cynthia Li experienced a radical healing firsthand, she began studying the science of physiological coherence, and deepening in her practice of embodied flow. Since then, she has been supporting others in activating their body’s peak healing state: for personal healing, […]


Sunday, April 19
1:00 – 3:00 pm PDT
Gallery Commonweal is on the 2nd floor of our historic building, and there is no elevator.
FREE event, no registration needed. Donations welcomed with gratitude.
Join us for a gallery reception for artists Hillary Goidell and Marla Pederson.

Part of the On the Land Series

Tuesday, April 21
1:15 – 2:45 pm PDT
in the Commonweal Garden
$15 suggested donation, no one turned away
In person event only
We are living in times of great change. Many of us are holding a vision, carrying the seeds, and tending the soil of a regenerative future on this beautiful Earth. The Commonweal Garden is a place where the vision of this regenerative future has long been tended. Join Anna O’Malley, physician-healer, lover of nature, and […]

Immerse yourself in a line of thought or inquiry at your own pace—building resilience and sparking new insights. Follow the journey of our Visiting Scholars, our favorite topics, and our favorite guests at Commonweal’s New School.
From thoughtful articles to creative zines and published books, the spirit of our community is captured in the sharing of ideas, stories, and practices that nurture resilience, wisdom, and care for the world.
Let us know how to get back to you.