Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. He co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. Jack holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and has taught on Eastern and Western psychology in centers and universities worldwide. He is a father, a husband and an activist.

His books have been translated into 22 languages and sold more than a million copies. They include, A Wise Heart: A Guide to the Universal Teachings of Buddhist Psychology, A Path with Heart; After the Ecstasy, the Laundry and his most recent book, No Time Like the Present.

• Profile at Jack Kornfield.com

Donald Meichenbaum, Ph.D in Clinical Psychology is currently Research Director of Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention, Miami (melissainstitute.org). He is one of the founders of cognitive behavior therapy. He was voted one of the most influential psychotherapists of the 20th century. Latest books include "Roadmap to Resilience" (www.roadmaptoresilience.com) and "Evolution of Cognitive Behavior Therapy: A Personal and Professional Journey."

Mary Pipher, PhD. Psychologist living in Lincoln, Nebraska, and the author of eight books, including the New York Times bestsellers Reviving Ophelia, The Shelter of Each Other, and Another Country, as well as Writing to Change the World. Her work has been translated into more than 25 languages, and she has lectured to groups and conferences worldwide

• Site at Mary Pipher.com