

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

Feb 26, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 96: Your Nature
Join us in today's episode of the Daily Vedantic as we look into the powerful concept of "Swadharma," meaning your nature or essence. Drawing inspiration from the incredible albatross, learn how aligning with your true nature allows you to effortlessly soar through life. Uncover the two significant impacts of embracing your Swadharma: contributing uniquely to the world and unlocking untold bliss for yourself and those around you. Explore the key question that can guide you on this transformative journey and pave the way to a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
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

Feb 25, 2024 • 10min
Ep. 95: Good News, Bad News
In this episode, James explores the intricate dance of good news and bad news surrounding the concept of beauty in our culture. Join the daily Vedantic reflections as we explore the paradox of being told "you're beautiful just the way you are" while uncovering the deeper truth about our natural state and the transformative power of higher ideals. Discover the philosophy that sees beyond the superficial and find out why treating yourself might not be the ultimate path to true beauty.
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

Feb 24, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 94: Perceptions in Time
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery. Join the exploration of one of the cornerstones of Vedanta philosophy, challenging the common perception that reality is solely defined by what we can perceive. Drawing parallels with the dream state, discover the wisdom that questions the trust we place in our perceptions and challenges us to seek a deeper understanding of existence. Tune in to unravel the illusions of the waking state and gain insights that transcend the boundaries of conventional 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

Feb 23, 2024 • 12min
Ep. 93: How it Feels & How it is
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James looks into the intricate relationship between emotions and reality. In this reflective journey, we explore the profound wisdom of Vedanta in understanding the nuances of our feelings. Discover the importance of creating space between how we feel and how things truly are, transcending the influence of emotions. Learn to question, detach, and gain clarity on the subtle realities of existence. Tune in for insights that bridge the gap between perception and truth.
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

Feb 21, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 92: Name & Form
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James explores the profound concept of "Nama Rupa" – name and form. Delving into the radical philosophy of Advaita Vedanta, we unravel the layers of superimposition that veil our perception of reality. Join us on a journey to understand how the world, as we see it, is merely an illusion, a projection of names and forms. As we peel back this veil, we discover the unity behind the plurality and realize the essence of our true self. Don't miss this exploration into the nature of existence and identity.
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

Feb 20, 2024 • 13min
Ep. 91: Atomic Knowledge Bomb
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James looks into the profound wisdom of Advaita Vedanta. In today's reflection, we explore the concept of the atomic unit of happiness and draw parallels with the scientific pursuit of the smallest particle in the universe. Discover how the timeless philosophy of Vedanta challenges the notion that happiness is found in external symbols, emphasizing that true freedom, the core of our pursuits, is not out there. As we navigate through this introspective journey, we unravel the mirage of external validations and learn to recognize the intrinsic nature of joy within ourselves. Don't miss this insightful exploration that transcends the boundaries of conventional 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

Feb 17, 2024 • 10min
Ep. 90: Sixth Sense
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James looks into the transformative power of Vedanta, likening it to the development of a sixth sense—the intellect. Reflecting on a heartwarming video of a six-month-old baby hearing for the first time, Beshara emphasizes the profound impact of perceiving through time and cultivating the intellect. Vedanta, unlike other philosophies, recognizes the intellect as an essential inner guide, providing the capacity to discern and navigate life's complexities. Beshara encourages listeners to appreciate the balance between emotional impulses and the discernment offered by the intellect, asserting that daily reflection within Vedanta unlocks an invaluable sixth sense, enhancing one's journey through various aspects of life.
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

Feb 16, 2024 • 12min
Ep. 89: Superstitious Futures
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James explores the distinct perspective of Vedanta, a philosophy that uniquely centers on the present moment, free from any reliance on past doctrines or predictions about the future. Drawing insights from philosopher Swami Sarvapriyananda, Beshara contrasts Vedanta with other major philosophies and religions, emphasizing its refusal to engage in superstition regarding cosmic events. He critiques philosophies dealing with the future, categorizing them as indistinguishable from superstition, thereby uniting various global religions under this commonality.
The episode underscores Vedanta's promotion of self-inquiry, prompting individuals to question their identity beyond societal constructs. Beshara challenges listeners to ponder their true essence, unbound by external labels or beliefs. Emphasizing the transformative power of the present moment, Vedanta offers practical guidance for self-improvement and decision-making. Beshara encourages reflection, journaling, and discussions among seekers, highlighting the philosophy's timeless wisdom and its potential impact on daily life.
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

Feb 15, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 88: Effortless Discipline
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James explores the common misconception surrounding discipline, emphasizing the interplay between knowing what needs to be done and the perceived difficulty in executing those actions. Beshara challenges the traditional view of discipline by proposing that true understanding eliminates the sense of effort in adhering to disciplined practices. Drawing parallels to daily disciplines, such as investing in physical health or waking up early for reflection, he suggests that when discipline is rooted in understanding the profound benefits, it becomes effortless over time. The discussion extends to Vedanta's philosophy, highlighting that disciplined actions, when led by comprehension, transform from initial challenges into sources of joy. Beshara encourages viewers to explore and adopt Vedantic disciplines, assuring them that what may seem arduous at first could eventually become as natural as avoiding oncoming traffic. The episode concludes with an invitation to embrace the understanding-led path to effortless discipline and a teaser for future reflections on daily Vedantic principles.
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

Feb 14, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 87: The End of Perception
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic”, James explores the profound concept within Vedanta that encourages individuals to conclude their perceptions as soon as the experience unfolds. The phrase "end perception with perception" advises against clinging or indulging in thoughts after enjoying a moment, be it savoring a delightful treat or appreciating a scenic view. James shares personal experiences, emphasizing how the failure to end perception appropriately can lead to a shift from enjoyment to a greedy desire for acquisition. Drawing parallels to the teachings of Vedanta, he highlights the importance of taking a middle path—enjoying preferences without being governed by them. James reflects on the transformative power of perceiving without attachment, allowing for a clear and unburdened awareness of the present moment. The episode concludes with an invitation to embrace a mindful approach to perception in the journey of daily reflection on Vedantic principles.
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


