First published in 1975, 'Animal Liberation' by Peter Singer has been a pivotal book in the animal rights movement. It introduces the concept of 'speciesism,' the systematic neglect and exploitation of nonhuman animals. Singer argues that the interests of all beings capable of suffering should be given equal consideration, regardless of their species. The book critiques factory farming and animal experimentation, presenting alternatives and advocating for a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. The revised edition, 'Animal Liberation Now,' updates the arguments to reflect current issues, including environmental impacts and the spread of viruses from factory farms[1][3][5].
The Dhammapada is a Buddhist scripture that distills the complex teachings of the Buddha into concise, crystalline verses. It is part of the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism. The text includes various chapters that cover themes such as earnestness, thought, the nature of the fool and the wise man, and the path to enlightenment. It emphasizes the importance of controlling one's thoughts and actions to achieve happiness and avoid suffering. The verses are traditionally believed to have been spoken by the Buddha on various occasions and are accompanied by commentaries that provide context and stories to illustrate the teachings[1][2][4].
This book is a detailed account of Paramahansa Yogananda's life, from his childhood in India to his spiritual quest and eventual establishment of the Self-Realization Fellowship in the United States. It includes his encounters with various spiritual figures, his experiences with Kriya Yoga, and his mission to spread the teachings of yoga and meditation to the Western world. The book also delves into the prophesied writing of his autobiography and its significance in spreading the message of yoga globally[1][2][5].
This autobiography tells the story of Bryan Kest, a pioneer in the yoga world, particularly known for developing power yoga. The book explores his life journey, his contributions to yoga, and his experiences as a teacher and innovator in the field.
Replace ego with the eternal. Trade selfishness for service—and self-absorption for unity. Together, let’s explore the spark of divinity that resides within us all.
Meet Raghunath Cappo.
Punk rock icon. Spiritual warrior. Bhakti yoga devotee.
A teen in search of meaning, Ray Cappo fled his suburban Connecticut enclave for New York City—and found community among the misfits of Manhattan’s Lower East Side. He fell in love with punk rock, so he started a band and a record label. Success soon followed. By the late 1980’s, Youth of Today had thousands of fans, cementing Ray as a leading voice and trendsetter at the bullseye of hardcore culture.
However, a growing existential itch led Ray to call it quits. At just 22, he walked away from his band and label and decamped for India—a spiritual pilgrimage that led him to the holy village of Vrindavan.
It was there that Ray fell in love with the wisdom and traditions of Bhakti yoga.
It was there that he would remain for the next six years, living as a monk.
It was there that Ray became Raghunath.
This is the incredible story of a modern day yogi.
But it’s also about the search we all go on. The journey for personal meaning beyond the ego. And the quest for universal consequence beyond the material.
It’s about the timeless that lives and breathes within all of us—that which is eternal, and past our limited senses.
It’s about transcending the illusions that hold us back. What it means to truly devote oneself to greater truth. And the modern day challenges of trudging the path towards higher consciousness.
All told, it’s about what it really means to be a spiritual being having a human experience.
If you’ve enjoyed my conversations with musicians John Joseph & Toby Morse, spiritual leaders Guru Singh & Radhanath Swami, or modern seekers Andy Puddicombe, Jason Garner & Russell Brand, then I’m confident this will be your jam.
FULL BLOG & SHOW NOTES: bit.ly/richroll583
YouTube: bit.ly/raghunathcappo583
Thank you to Robert Sturman, Perry Julien, Sherry Sutton & Davy Greenberg for the portraits & photo use permission.
Let the Jedi Warrior training begin.
Peace + Plants,
Rich
The Rich Roll Podcast 
