

The Daily Vedantic
James Beshara
The Daily Vedantic, hosted by James Beshara, is a daily Podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of Vedanta; the “perennial philosophy” as Aldous Huxley often called it. Originating over 5,000+ years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern philosophy and studied daily by titans like Emerson, Thoreau, Carl Jung and Alan Watts — the teachings of Vedanta, stemming from the Vedas, offer essential and pragmatic insights that anyone can use to live a life full of peace and prosperity. The aim of The Daily Vedantic is to make this philosophy as accessible as it is profound.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 9, 2024 • 1h 29min
Philosophy Fridays (with Justin Boreta)
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James Beshara and Justin Boreta explore the profound intersection of creativity and philosophy, particularly through the lens of Vedanta. They discuss the importance of trusting the creative process, the liberating nature of philosophical insights, and how early morning practices can enhance clarity and intention in artistic endeavors. The dialogue also dives into the concept of swadharma, emphasizing the significance of aligning one's creative pursuits with their true purpose. In this conversation, James Beshara explores various philosophical themes, emphasizing the importance of daily practices, the concept of swadharma (one's true nature), and the role of community in personal growth. He discusses the significance of love as unity and the challenge of finding meaning in a world perceived as illusory. The dialogue also touches on the balance between creativity and non-attachment, offering insights into how to navigate life's complexities while remaining true to oneself.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Desire and Agitation
01:00 Introduction to the Venice Vedanta Club
04:57 The Intersection of Creativity and Philosophy
09:46 Emergence in Creative Processes
14:56 Knowledge Bombs and Philosophical Insights
19:47 The Shift in Creative Intentions
24:58 The Power of Early Morning Practices
29:47 Understanding Swadharma and Creative Mastery
45:48 Philosophical Approaches to Daily Life
54:34 The Concept of Swadharma and Individuation
01:00:20 The Role of Community in Philosophy
01:06:23 Understanding Love and Unity
01:11:36 Recommended Texts for Philosophical Exploration
01:17:01 Balancing Creativity and Non-Attachment
01:23:23 Finding Meaning in a Perceived Illusory World
Justin Boreta's Social Media Links:
https://www.instagram.com/boreta/
https://www.facebook.com/boretamusic/
https://x.com/boreta/
Justin Boreta's website:
https://boreta.net/
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org

Dec 8, 2024 • 11min
The Gita Ch. 8
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, we dive into Chapter 8 of the Bhagavad Gita, "The Yoga of the Imperishable Brahman." This chapter explores the profound metaphysics of the ultimate reality—Brahman—and its imperishable nature. We discuss the philosophy of reincarnation, the power of thought at the time of death, and the continuous cycle of rebirth, maintenance, and dissolution. Learn how Vedanta interprets misperception in the waking state and the role of our habitual thoughts in shaping our experiences. A reflective journey into the timeless wisdom of the Gita awaits!
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 7, 2024 • 13min
The Gita Ch. 7
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, we dive into Chapter 7 of the Bhagavad Gita, unraveling the distinctions between knowledge and wisdom and the transformative nature of this timeless text. We also explore the four types of worshippers described by Krishna, shedding light on how these archetypes reflect our own spiritual pursuits. Through reflection and humor, we uncover profound truths that continue to inspire and challenge readers across millennia.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 6, 2024 • 12min
The Gita Ch. 6
In this episode, we dive into Chapter 6 of the Vedantic teachings, focusing on meditation as the final step before realization. Contrary to popular belief, meditation is not just a practice but a result of decades of self-work and reflection. We explore the holistic approach to waking up, including the importance of questioning, study, and reflection, and how this culminates in meditation. Meditation, in the Vedantic sense, is not a simple practice but a powerful tool for achieving freedom and self-mastery. The video also discusses how lifting ourselves up empowers the world around us.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 5, 2024 • 11min
The Gita Ch. 5
In this reflection on Bhagavad Gita Chapter 5, we explore the balance between action and knowledge, two key themes in Vedantic philosophy. The Gita presents the struggle within us all—between the mind's desires and the intellect's wisdom. Through renunciation of selfish actions and the pursuit of self-knowledge, we are invited to see the unity of all beings. The chapter teaches the importance of acting for the greater good and cultivating equanimity, as we recognize the divine in every living thing, from the highest to the lowest in society. Join us as we dive into these profound teachings.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 4, 2024 • 8min
The Gita Ch. 4
In this reflection on Chapter 4 of the Bhagavad Gita, we explore the critical relationship between knowledge and action in the spiritual journey. The chapter emphasizes that action, fueled by wisdom, is the true path to progress, as knowledge alone cannot transform us. We discuss how knowledge, like fire, purifies the ego and helps us act with purpose. Through examples like LeBron James relying on coaches, and the teachings of the Gita, this episode dives into how cultivating wisdom in our daily actions can lead to spiritual growth and true service to the world.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 3, 2024 • 10min
The Gita Ch. 3
In this episode, we dive into Chapter 3 of the Bhagavad Gita, exploring the integral role of action in our lives. Krishna's teachings to Arjuna provide valuable insights on how to approach action without attachment, focusing on selfless duty as the key to reaching inner peace. Through practical examples, we reflect on how action and knowledge work together, guiding us to live with purpose, balance, and clarity. This is an essential reflection for anyone seeking to align their daily actions with higher wisdom and spiritual growth.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 3, 2024 • 13min
The Gita Ch. 2
In today's episode of The Daily Vedantic, we dive deep into Chapter 2 of the Bhagavad Gita, where Lord Krishna imparts powerful wisdom on the nature of action, detachment, and selfless living. This chapter provides an overview of the entire Gita, outlining the path of knowledge and the importance of acting without attachment to outcomes. Through the dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, we explore the transformative idea that true fulfillment comes from selfless action and the pursuit of duty, not the fruits of our labor. Join us as we explore how to apply these timeless teachings to our modern lives.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 2, 2024 • 16min
The Gita Ch. 1
In this episode, we dive into Chapter 1 of the Bhagavad Gita, where Arjuna, the great warrior prince, faces a breakdown in the midst of a battlefield. His fear of the battle ahead, compounded by the moral dilemmas of fighting against family, leads him to seek an escape. This chapter, often overlooked, reveals deep philosophical lessons about avoiding responsibility and the mental tricks we use to justify fear. The episode explores how Arjuna’s struggle mirrors our own challenges in facing difficult decisions, and why understanding the "spiritual bypass" is crucial for growth.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita

Dec 1, 2024 • 7min
The Snares of 99
In today's episode of The Daily Vedantic, we explore the concept of the "Snares of 99," a phrase from the sage Ramatirtha that describes the trap of believing happiness lies just beyond our reach—only one more thing is needed to make us truly fulfilled. Whether it's a promotion, a new possession, or a life change, we often think that these external factors will bring us ultimate happiness. But as we learn, true contentment comes from within, and chasing the elusive "99%" only keeps us trapped in an endless cycle. Join us as we reflect on this insightful concept and discuss how to break free from the cycle of external pursuit.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://thedailyvedantic.com/). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound.
James Beshara ( https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara ) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles.
James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect )
James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities) and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org


