From Military to Police Officer to Monk: Jacques-Pierre Cole’s Modern Approach to Meditation

Jacques-Pierre’s journey is one of resilience and transformation.

With a background as a military veteran, former police officer, and non-profit founder, he found his true calling as a Zen Buddhist monk. Now a leading mindfulness expert, Jacques-Pierre brings a modern touch to meditation, shaking up traditional standards and making it accessible for anyone to create their own practice. From transformative retreats to speaking engagements, he guides others toward emotional balance and inner peace. In this interview, he shares how his innovative approaches are redefining mindfulness for today’s world.

What inspired you to start your journey to becoming a monk, and how did you overcome the initial challenges?

My journey to becoming a monk was rooted in a lifelong search for healing and peace. Growing up, I faced significant abuse, which left deep emotional scars and contributed to ongoing struggles with mental health. Throughout my life, I battled depression and made several attempts to take my own life. The turning point came after serving in the military and working as a police officer, where the stress and trauma only compounded what I had already endured.

I reached a point where I knew I needed a profound change, something beyond just coping. That’s when I turned to meditation and Zen Buddhism, seeking a path that could offer true transformation. The initial challenges were immense—letting go of old patterns, confronting the pain I had suppressed for so long, and finding the discipline to stay on this path. But through embracing daily practice, facing my discomfort, and accepting the process of healing, I discovered the resilience and clarity that not only saved my life but also shaped the work I do today. Now, I share these practices to help others find the same light in their darkest moments.

How do you stay innovative in a constantly evolving meditation and mindfulness industry?

Staying innovative in the meditation and mindfulness industry means continually evolving my approach while remaining true to the core principles. I draw from my diverse background, including my experiences in the military, law enforcement, and as a survivor of trauma, to create practices that are accessible and practical for everyday life. I incorporate modern techniques like micro-mindfulness and emotional regulation tools, blending traditional meditation with elements of neuroscience and psychology.

I also keep the practice dynamic by meeting people where they are—whether it’s through retreats, corporate workshops, or online programs—ensuring that meditation isn’t confined to a cushion but integrated into real-world settings. By adapting traditional techniques to modern challenges, I help people create personalized practices that fit seamlessly into their lives. This approach allows me to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry while making mindfulness relevant for today’s world.

What advice would you give to beginners of meditation? What tricks do you have in those robes?

For beginners, my advice is to keep it simple and start small. Meditation isn’t about achieving a perfect state of calm; it’s about showing up and being present, even for just a few minutes a day. Let go of the expectation to ‘clear your mind’ and instead, focus on noticing what’s happening inside you—thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations.

As for the tricks in my robes, micro-moments of mindfulness are a powerful way to integrate meditation into your daily life. Think of moments like taking a shower, waiting at a stoplight, or sipping tea. These are perfect opportunities to pause, take a few deep breaths, and bring your attention to the present. Over time, these small practices add up, making mindfulness feel more natural and accessible.

Another tip is a little mind hack: if there’s someone in your phone list who causes you anxiety when they call, add ‘inhale/exhale’ before their name. Seeing that reminder triggers the brain to take a deep breath, helping you stay calm and grounded even before you pick up the call. It’s a simple trick, but it can really shift your response in stressful moments.

Thank you for exploring my journey and insights on mindfulness. Meditation goes beyond finding calm—it’s about building the resilience to navigate life’s internal and external conflicts with clarity and balance. Whether you’re new to meditation or looking to deepen your practice, remember that each moment offers a chance to grow and transform.

TAKE ACTION: For those interested in diving deeper, I share resources and insights that can help integrate mindfulness into everyday life, from guided practices to reflections on the journey. Stay connected for daily inspiration and practical tips, and if you ever feel ready for a more personalized approach, there are ways to explore this path together. Let’s continue to walk this journey toward a more mindful, balanced, and empowered life. It starts with the small steps you take today.