

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 13, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 86: Embrace the Dawn
In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic," James explores the profound significance of the early morning hours, specifically the time frame between 4 and 6 a.m., known as Brahma Muhurta or the time of the gods. Reflecting on the timeless philosophy of Vedanta, James discusses the prescribed practice of utilizing this quiet period for introspection, study, and contemplation on eternal principles. He shares his personal quest of transitioning from a habitual late riser to now waking up at 4:30 a.m. daily, highlighting the logical reasoning behind this practice. James underscores the peaceful and undisturbed nature of the early morning, emphasizing its positive impact on setting the tone for the day. Drawing parallels to the advice of a sleep doctor, he stresses the transformative nature of establishing a routine that includes reflection on philosophical ideals. James encourages the audience to try incorporating even 15 minutes of morning reflection, describing it as a "best friend" that becomes missed when skipped.
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 12, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 85: Are we there yet?
Embark on a reflective journey with this episode of The Daily Vedantic. Join as we explore the profound wisdom of Vedanta through the lens of the timeless aphorisms and quirks of life. Dive into the metaphor of rivers and their gradual turns, understanding that transformation, like nature, takes time and gradual effort. Discover the practicality of Vedantic philosophy in navigating everyday challenges and find joy in the adventure, letting go of the fixation on outcomes. If you've ever questioned the duration of your transformation, this episode provides valuable insights into the patience required for the adventure. Join us for a contemplative exploration of life's quest through the lens of Vedantic 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 11, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 84: Elect to Reflect
In this episode of "Elect to Reflect" on The Daily Vedantic, James emphasizes the profound importance of reflection in the quest of understanding and internalizing philosophical concepts, specifically within Vedanta. Drawing attention to the disparity between passive listening and active reflection, he highlights the power of reflecting on ideas, whether through silent contemplation, writing, or engaging in discussions with a community seeking the truth. James suggests that the transformative impact of reflection is a hundred thousand times more powerful than mere listening, making it a crucial practice for genuine understanding and realization. The episode concludes with a warm encouragement to the audience to take the time to reflect on the presented concepts and engage in discussions with others on the path to 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 10, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 83: Power of Negation
In this enlightening episode of The Daily Vedantic, James explores the profound concept of negation within Vedanta. With a smile, he inquires into the two simultaneous routes one can take towards self-realization: affirmation and negation. James explains the power of the mantra "Nati Nati," meaning "not this, not this," as a pathway to understanding the illusory nature of the world. Using a powerful analogy involving a pin, paper, and paperclip, he illustrates the essence of negation in seeing beyond the objects of consciousness to recognize the underlying awareness. James invites listeners to contemplate the transformative quest of negation, a practice that leads to a deeper understanding of the true self.
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 9, 2024 • 14min
Ep. 82: Death is Near
In this thought-provoking episode of The Daily Vedantic, James contemplates the timeless wisdom of Vedanta regarding the inevitability of death. Drawing from Socratic wisdom, he explores the notion that philosophy serves as preparation for the inevitable end that is death. James shares a poignant story from a lunch with a hospital leader, shedding light on the Western world's tendency to avoid acknowledging the inevitability of death, even at the cost of significant healthcare expenses. With a blend of philosophical depth and relatable anecdotes, James inquires into Vedanta's perspective on life, death, and the continuous cycle of experiences, inviting listeners to consider the profound implications of this ancient philosophy on their own existence.
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 8, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 81: Fear 'N Disaster
Join us in today's episode of The Daily Vedantic, where we explore the gripping emotion of fear and its impact on our lives. Drawing inspiration from the ancient philosophy of Vedanta, we inquire into the concept that worrying about outcomes can hinder our ability to act effectively. Through anecdotes, including insights from renowned producer Rick Rubin and a profound analogy from surfing, discover the paradoxical nature of facing fear head-on. Learn why focusing on the present moment and the work at hand, rather than fixating on outcomes, can lead to better decision-making and a more fulfilling life. Reflect on the accidents we may cause in our lives when driven by fear, and consider the transformative power of embracing challenges instead of avoiding them. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of Vedantic wisdom on fear and its impact on our adventure.
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 4, 2024 • 8min
Ep. 80: Peace in Conflict
Join us in this insightful episode of The Daily Vedantic, where we explore the profound wisdom of achieving peace in any conflict. Learn how conflicts often stem from selfishness and discover the transformative power of embracing wisdom over the desire to win. Drawing inspiration from cognitive scientist Dr. John Vervake, we unravel the dichotomy between the love of wisdom (phylo-sophia) and the love of winning (phylo-nikea). Explore practical steps to untie the knot of conflict, including acknowledging where the other person might be right and expressing the three atomically powerful words: "You're probably right." Experience the lasting impact of choosing harmony within yourself, creating blissful moments in every circumstance. Tune in to this episode and explore the path to peace in your 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 3, 2024 • 7min
Ep. 79: Desiring Desirelessness
Join us in another insightful episode of The Daily Vedantic as we explore the intriguing concept of "Desiring Desirelessness." Dive into the profound wisdom of Vedanta, addressing the question of whether the desire for liberation from desire is just another desire. Understand the essence of yearning for freedom from constraints, and discover how the philosophy guides us to utilize our innate desires for a higher purpose. Uncover the transformative journey of attaching to non-attachment and desiring desirelessness as a means to transcend suffering. Join us on the Vedantic path to liberation!
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 2, 2024 • 9min
Ep. 78: Thoughtflow
Join us for another insightful reflection on the Daily Vedantic as we explore the transformative power of thought flow. Discover how Vedanta encourages questioning everything, avoiding assumptions, and daily study to shape new and beneficial thought patterns. Uncover the analogy of thought flow as a powerful force, much like lava, and learn how investing in higher ideals can lead to a profound shift in your perspective. Elevate your consciousness and journey towards self-mastery through intentional thought flow.
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 2, 2024 • 11min
Ep. 77: Radicality of Vedanta
Join us in this episode of The Daily Vedantic as we explore the radical concepts that form the core of Vedanta, an ancient philosophy that challenges conventional beliefs and offers a path to profound freedom. Dive into the three pillars of truth within Vedanta: the existence of an infinite supreme entity, the illusion of reality, and the radical assertion that "you are that supreme entity." Discover how these concepts, seemingly impossible to believe, have been echoed through the ages by mystics, sages, and spiritual leaders. Explore the transformative power of embracing these radical truths and the potential they hold for genuine freedom. Reflect on the idea that, in a world confined by societal norms and desires, being truly radical might be the key to authentic liberation. Tune in to unravel the wisdom that has endured for thousands of years and consider whether radical beliefs might hold the key to true sanity and freedom.
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


