Franz’s abiding interest in the spiritual traditions of South and Southeast Asia was sparked as a young child and he began his study and practice of Hindu meditation and philosophy at 8 years of age. During three pilgrimages to India beginning in 2002 he received various tantric empowerments and instruction in the Dakshina Kali and Barsana Vaishnava traditions. After completing his undergraduate world music program at CalArts in 2004, Franz moved to the wonderful city of Long Beach.

He began studying Buddhism in earnest in 2013, beginning with an in-depth study and practice of Early Buddhism represented in the Sutta Pitaka. In 2015 Franz was invited to teach by the founder of Long Beach Meditation. Constantly amazed and inspired by the incredible depth and diverse beauty in all of Buddhism, Franz continues his education under the expert guidance of Jokai Blackwell Roshi, and has taken refuge with Dzogchen master James Low. Franz’s passion to share the teachings of the Buddha springs from the revolution they have created in his own life.