

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

May 1, 2024 • 9min
A Waste of Time
Embark on an exploration of the concept of regret and its implications in this enlightening episode of The Daily Vedantic series. Dive into the philosophy's perspective on regret as a futile attachment to ego and identity, and discover how it views the pursuit of regret as a significant waste of time. Learn how to transcend regret by reflecting, learning, and taking action, thereby transforming mistakes into opportunities for growth and service to others. Join the journey towards self-awareness and positive transformation in this insightful reflection on the intricacies of human experience.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 30, 2024 • 11min
The Future Tense
Dive into the intricate nuances of the future tense with this thought-provoking reflection from The Daily Vedantic. Join the journey as the speaker navigates through Chapter 16 of the Gita, unraveling the qualities of the divine and the demonic person. Explore how seemingly innocent thoughts of "I will give," "I will sacrifice," and "I will rejoice" can lead to a subtle but profound separation from the present moment. Discover the dangers of constantly deferring happiness to the future and learn how to embrace the power of the present in this insightful exploration of timeless wisdom.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 29, 2024 • 8min
On Listening
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, explore the profound virtue of listening as James reflects on the wisdom of Mother Teresa and the ancient teachings of Vedanta. Through insightful anecdotes and philosophical insights, discover the transformative power of silence and the art of patiently awaiting the right moment. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of the importance of listening, reflection, and stillness in our journey towards self-realization and personal growth.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 28, 2024 • 12min
When the Mind Takes Over
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, we dive into the depths of the mind's power and the consequences when it takes control. Drawing from the ancient wisdom of Vedanta, the host reflects on the pivotal moment when intellect surrenders to impulse, leading to assured destruction. Through insightful anecdotes and philosophical insights, discover the profound implications of allowing the mind to dominate, and learn strategies to navigate the delicate balance between intellect and impulse. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche and the eternal struggle to maintain control over our thoughts and actions.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 27, 2024 • 13min
Wave Selection
Today's reflection takes a candid look at James’ sense of isolation while recording the podcast, acknowledging that despite expressing happiness at the listener's presence, there's a disconnection. Titled "Wave Selection," the episode draws inspiration from professional surfer Koa Rothman's insight on choosing waves wisely. Rothman's emphasis on wave selection as crucial for success in surfing parallels life's decisions, where clarity in choosing paths leads to desired outcomes. Drawing from Vedantic philosophy, the episode explores wisdom as the ability to foresee consequences, urging listeners to reflect on their choices and cultivate the capacity to discern between beneficial and detrimental "waves" in life. Through reflection, one can gain clarity and navigate toward fulfillment, transcending self-preservation to embrace duty-bound existence. The episode concludes with an invitation to introspect and refine the art of wave selection, embodying the essence of wisdom in daily living.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 26, 2024 • 20min
Never Repress Emotion
Explore the delicate balance between emotions and intellect in the philosophy of Vedanta in this insightful episode. Dive into the misconception that the intellect should dominate emotions, as the host navigates the importance of understanding, feeling, and discerning. Through vivid metaphors and personal anecdotes, discover how developing the intellect can lead to wise decision-making and emotional balance, ultimately fostering harmony between the heart and the mind. Join the journey of self-discovery and philosophical exploration as the episode unfolds, offering valuable insights for daily living.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 25, 2024 • 16min
Nothing Happens
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James dives into the concept of "Nothing Happens" as taught in Vedanta philosophy. He begins by urging listeners to explore the previous episode on "pile driving" and recommends the Vedanta Treatise as a transformative read. James then unpacks the notion that externally, nothing truly happens—whether it's making choices, achieving milestones, or experiencing highs and lows. He contrasts this with the deeper philosophical truth that our inner essence, our true nature, remains unchanged regardless of external circumstances. James shares anecdotes to illustrate this point, including the experiences of a friend who sold his company for a billion dollars and a world champion surfer. He emphasizes that true peace, happiness, and freedom are not dependent on external factors but are intrinsic to our being. James encourages listeners to reflect on this concept and to understand that the pursuit of external validation or satisfaction is ultimately futile. Instead, he suggests turning inward and aligning with one's true essence, where true fulfillment resides. This episode serves as a reminder to shift our focus from the external to the internal and to find contentment in simply being.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 24, 2024 • 10min
Pile Driving
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James explores the concept of "pile driving" within the realm of Eastern philosophy. He explains how this practice involves the repeated reinforcement of fundamental concepts, akin to driving a pillar deep into the ground. Drawing from the tradition of Vedanta, James emphasizes the power of repetition in internalizing eternal principles. He encourages listeners to reflect on these concepts over and over again, allowing them to gradually penetrate deeper into one's understanding. Ultimately, James highlights the transformative potential of pile driving, wherein seemingly abstract principles become foundational pillars upon which to build one's life. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of persistence in spiritual growth and self-reflection.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 23, 2024 • 14min
When to Stop
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James dives into the concept of knowing when to stop, drawing from a conversation with his teacher Joseph and insights from Eastern philosophy. He reflects on the idea that mastery of oneself lies in recognizing when to halt one's actions, whether it's the pursuit of worldly conquests or simply knowing when to cease indulgence. Through the story of Alexander the Great encountering a sage, James illustrates the wisdom of conquering the inner battles and finding contentment within oneself. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on the value of restraint and self-mastery in the journey of personal growth.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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

Apr 23, 2024 • 10min
Efficiency
In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James redefines the concept of efficiency, drawing from his Silicon Valley background and Vedantic studies. Contrary to the traditional notion of maximizing output with minimal input, James introduces Daksha, a Vedantic principle emphasizing giving the most and taking the least. Through anecdotes from his interactions with Swami and fellow students, James illustrates how cultivating efficiency as a virtue can lead to self-sufficiency and become a source of support for others. He encourages listeners to shift their perspective on efficiency, viewing it not as a means of personal gain but as a pathway to meaningful relationships and community contribution.
The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). 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


