
Wisdom of the Sages
Truths about life from the timeless wisdom of the Bhakti-yoga tradition - fun, relevant, and deep. Learn about dharma, yoga, bhakti, and how it relates to all the basic questions of life. This show is about how to live your best life, let go of the external distractions, and uncover the spiritual happiness that lies within the heart as the true nature of the soul.
Raghunath and Kaustubha's connection goes back to their teens in the New York Hardcore Punk Scene of the early 80s, through serving together as Bhakti-yogi monks in the 90's, to sharing their experiences in the world of yoga in the 21st century.
Latest episodes

Jun 6, 2025 • 58min
1619: Devotion Follows Destruction-- Evolution and the Death of Our Lower Nature
With their signature blend of humor and clarity, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack a timeless spiritual principle: real transformation always involves a kind of death—of ego, comfort, or illusion. Drawing from the allegory of Krishna’s birth following the death of His six brothers, they explore how the destruction of our lower nature clears the way for divine consciousness to take birth in a purified mind and heart. Key themes include: • The cosmic law that death precedes rebirth • The symbolism of Devakī’s six sons • How ego resists—but ultimately must yield to—divine consciousness • Self-surrender as the doorway to true spiritual life • Preparing the heart as a sacred space for Krishna SB 10.1.67-10.2.6 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Jun 5, 2025 • 57min
1618: Identity Politics, Self-Esteem Battles & the Spiritual Solution
Modern society is in the midst of an identity crisis. From gender and race to body image and social status, we’re defining, defending, and dividing ourselves by external labels. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how ancient yogic wisdom provides a powerful alternative: knowledge of the self. Through discussion, humor, and insights from the bhakti-yoga tration, they unpack how we can stop tiptoeing around fragile identities and live from the truth of who we really are. Key Themes: • Carl Jung’s insight on identity and self-definition • How real kindness comes from seeing through labels, not tiptoeing around them • Identity politics = bubble-wrapping the world / Knowledge of the self = putting on shoes SB 10.1.44-66 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Jun 4, 2025 • 57min
1617: Your Thoughts Are Drafting the Blueprints for Your Next Body
What if your thoughts today are already shaping your next body? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the deep yogic teaching that the subtle precedes the gross—your desires, thoughts, and habits now are laying the foundation for your future form. Drawing from ancient texts, dream metaphors, and even a few punk-rock detours through Texas, this episode sheds light on how our inner life drives our destiny—and why Krishna is the ultimate object of meditation. New episodes daily. Subscribe and join the global Bhakti journey SB 10.1.41-43 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Jun 3, 2025 • 55min
1616: You’re Not That Voice in Your Head: Ancient Yogic Wisdom for Self-Realization
At any moment, we can initiate a higher level of consciousness—simply by observing the mind instead of identifying with it. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the Bhagavatam’s opening to the Tenth Canto, where Vasudeva speaks timeless yogic truth: you are not the body, not the mind—you are something divine. A modern spiritual insight meets ancient Vedic wisdom—and yes, there’s even a Raghunath senior discount incident that makes the point unforgettable. SB 10.1.26-40 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Jun 1, 2025 • 1h 1min
1615: Full-Hearted Bhakti: Vivid, Personal Krishna Devotion | Q & A Vol. 280
From epic failures and ego clashes to tender moments of empowerment and encouragement, Raghunath and Kaustubha open up about what they love most about Krishna Bhakti—and how it transforms even the most ordinary day into an offering of beauty, meaning, and joy. In this candid Q & A episode, you’ll hear stories of spiritual growth, forgiveness, and the joy that comes from living with a fully invested heart. Highlights include: • Black-and-white Vedanta vs. full-color Bhakti • One humbling breakfast invitation, one roasted ego, and a lot of growth • Gossip vs. grace: a Bhakti PSA on spiritual etiquette • Parking lot kirtans and singing past your comfort zone • Rūpa Gosvāmī’s poetry, Draupadī’s forgiveness, and the art of full-hearted living A rich, funny, and inspiring conversation rooted in the lived experience of Krishna devotion. Check out Supersoul Farm's first annual kirtan fest at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/supersoul-farm-kirtan-fest-tickets-1376536139649?aff=oddtdtcreator Check out Radhanath Swami's class on how to treat people at https://youtu.be/ed0Effi7Kfo?si=b97G8C-cUaBtVWf6 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

May 31, 2025 • 52min
1614: Is Yoga All About the Journey—or About Hitting the Target? | Q & A Vol. 279
Modern spirituality often says yoga is all about the journey. But is that what the ancient teachings really meant? In this focused and eye-opening Q & A episode, Kaustubha explores samādhi and the true aim of yoga. Drawing from the Upanishads and Bhakti tradition, he reveals how yoga isn’t aimless—it’s intentional, transformational, and love-driven. You’ll also hear how Krishna’s call for surrender in the Bhagavad-gītā—often misunderstood as bossy—is actually rooted in compassion and transcendental clarity. What You’ll Learn: • The real goal of samādhi and how yoga stays focused • Why Krishna asks for everything—and how it’s not about ego • How even negative emotions can purify when directed toward God • Shishupala’s surprising liberation through hatred • Why Krishna’s confidence isn’t arrogance—and what it means for us This isn’t vague spiritualism—it’s grounded wisdom for the seeker who wants clarity, depth, and a target worth aiming for. Listen now and rediscover why love—with direction—is the heart of yoga. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

May 30, 2025 • 55min
1613: Myth or Reality: The Misunderstood Tech of the Yogis
Could ancient yogis have tapped into a science we still don’t understand? Mystical experiences—like hearing divine messages within the heart—may sound like fantasy today, but 300 years ago a FaceTime call would’ve seemed like wizardry. Arthur C. Clarke famously said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how imagination and humility may be the keys to rediscovering spiritual truths often mistaken for myth. Highlights include: • Why Einstein called imagination more important than knowledge • Yoga maya vs. Maha maya: illusion that either binds or liberates • Why Krishna never incarnates alone—and who He brings with Him • Debunking the debunkers: why unseen doesn’t mean unreal • Raghunath’s mantra for spiritual openness: “Could be.” Tune in as ancient stories, modern minds, and timeless truths come together in the pages of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam. SB 10.1.21-25 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

May 29, 2025 • 53min
1612: Cosmic Vision, Parental Panic & the Purusha Sukta Mantras
Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the need to shift perspective shared in Srimad Bhagavatam. Seeking to relieve the suffering of Mother Earth, the gods and goddesses gather for an epic moment of clarity—chanting the Purusha Sukta hymn of the Vedas. What follows is a brilliant meditation on zooming out of our small dramas and plugging into the greater cosmic intelligence behind it all. Raghunath shares a story of fatherly panic as his daughter falls ill across the ocean, while Kaustubha unpacks the deeper meaning of the universe as a unified being—rooted in the divine Purusha. Carl Sagan makes a guest appearance, reminding us from 4 billion miles away that Earth is but a speck in the void—and our self-importance might need a little deflation. Key Highlights: • “Our imagined self-importance is challenged by this point of pale light.” – Carl Sagan • How chanting Purusha Sukta re-centers the mind and soul • A fine line between spiritual detachment and showing up for those we love • Learning to see God’s hands when His face is hidden • Why the Bhagavatam is the “superfood” of spiritual literature 👉 Tap into the universal vision. 🎧 Listen now. #BhagavatamWisdom #PurushaSukta #ZoomOut #CarlSagan #KrishnaConsciousness #VedicCosmology #WisdomOfTheSages #BhaktiYoga SB 10.1.16-20 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

May 26, 2025 • 51min
1611: Parenting, Japa Meditation & How to Stay Inspired on the Bhakti Path | Q & A Vol. 278
From parenting struggles in spiritual life to the elusive experience of deep japa meditation – Vulnerability meets wisdom in this very real Q & A episode recorded live at the Wisdom of the Sages Retreat. Whether you’re trying to inspire your kids, stay inspired yourself, or figure out what absorption in the japa meditation actually feels like, this episode has something for you. 🌀 Key Highlights: • “Future fakers” and the art of letting go (yes, your kids might be doing it) • Japa as a spiritual shower for the soul • The illusion of control in parenting (and the relief in surrender) • Carrying retreat inspiration into everyday life—without crashing into Maya • Stoicism vs. closing circles: the struggle is real It’s an episode for anyone walking the tightrope between devotion and daily life—packed with deep truths and just enough comic relief to keep it real. 🌸 Subscribe and tune in daily for spiritual wisdom that’s equal parts elevating and grounding. 🎧 Listen now! #BhaktiParenting #JapaMeditation #SpiritualGrowth #WisdomOfTheSages #KirtanLife #LetGoLetKrishna #FutureFakerFreeZone ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

May 25, 2025 • 58min
1610: Struggling with Expectations & Self-Worth: Bhakti Yoga Insights | Q & A Vol. 277
When your spiritual ideals meet your messy, modern life—what gives? In this live Q & A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha tackle real-world questions from sincere seekers navigating work, relationships, insecurity, and the struggle for spiritual progress. With wisdom, clarity, and plenty of humor, they explore how Bhakti yoga applies when the employees let you down, the self-doubt runs deep, and the to-do list feels longer than the Ganges. Key Highlights: • My contract with my employee vs my contract with the Universe • Can Bhakti heal your emotional wounds—or is that your therapist’s job? • “I’m not the Spiller!”—Raghunath gets cornered by family karma • How to climb out of your own karmic hole (and invite others to your cloud) • What to prioritize in a full, chaotic life—and why India may be the next step Join the community of thousands tuning in daily for authentic, accessible yoga wisdom that meets you where you are—and points you toward where you want to go. 🎧 Listen now and let the transformation begin. 🪷 #BhaktiYoga #WisdomOfTheSages #SpiritualGrowth #SelfAcceptance #YogaWisdom #AppreciationOverExpectation #InnerWork #SrimadBhagavatam #LiveFromSupersoulFarm ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages