The Daily Vedantic

James Beshara
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Feb 2, 2024 • 9min

Ep. 76: Feeling Good

In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, we dive into the timeless wisdom of Vedanta to discover the profound yet straightforward secret to experiencing lasting joy—how to feel good every day. Explore the practicality of Vedanta, an ancient philosophy that predates Western philosophy by thousands of years, as we unravel the essence of its teachings. Join us on a journey to understand why "nothing feels as good as doing what you ought to do" and how this principle can transform your life. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, gain insights into the pitfalls of impulsive decisions and the profound impact of aligning actions with duty. Discover the simple yet challenging path to feeling good by surrendering to a duty-bound existence. Reflect on your own experiences and experiment with doing what you know you ought to do to unlock the key to lasting joy. Tune in to this episode and embark on the journey of simplicity 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
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Jan 29, 2024 • 6min

Ep. 75: On Self-Salvation

Dive into the profound teachings of Vedanta as today's Daily Vedantic reflection explores the empowering concept of self-salvation. While many philosophies look to external figures for deliverance, Vedanta asserts that true salvation lies within oneself. Discover the liberating message that you are the creator of your fortune or misfortune, and explore the timeless wisdom that emphasizes the power within each individual. Join us on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment. 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
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Jan 29, 2024 • 8min

Ep. 74: That MoFo Bastard, the Mind

In this episode James candidly addresses the nature of the mind in Vedanta, drawing a powerful analogy between the mind and a wildfire. He emphasizes that, like a wildfire, the mind is insatiable and relentless in its desires, constantly seeking more without reaching satisfaction. James explores the roles of the three inner equipments—body, mind, and intellect—and underscores the crucial role of the intellect in guiding the mind. He dismantles the illusion that acquiring more material possessions will bring lasting happiness, asserting that desire, much like a wildfire, can only be subdued by an external force—the discerning intellect. James concludes by encouraging listeners to cultivate the intellect to attain true freedom rather than chasing transient comforts. 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
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Jan 29, 2024 • 12min

Ep. 73: Transcending Hope

Explore the profound philosophy of Vedanta as it challenges conventional notions of hope. This Daily Vedantic episode dives into the idea that hope, often viewed positively, is, in fact, a mild form of anxiety rooted in selfish desires. Discover how the philosophy encourages transcendence of hope and attachment, advocating for self-sufficiency and determined faith (shradha). Join the journey of self-discovery, detachment, and preparedness as we navigate the complexities of hope and philosophy. 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
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Jan 29, 2024 • 5min

Ep. 72: The Eye of Wisdom

In this episode, James takes us on a fascinating exploration of the concept of the third eye, a prevalent theme in modern culture, particularly among the younger generation. Dispelling the popular imagery of an eye above the eyebrows looking outward, James reveals the profound truth that the third eye is an inward eye—a tool for observing our inner world. He discusses its practical application, urging listeners to cultivate the ability to witness their emotions, preferences, and decisions. James emphasizes that the eye of wisdom goes beyond momentary observations, offering insights into the essence of our being, enabling us to understand ourselves at the deepest levels. As he wraps up, James invites us to embrace this inward journey and keep our "third eye high." 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
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Jan 29, 2024 • 30min

Ep 71: Gita Series: Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita (20 of 20)

In this episode, James concludes our 20-part series on the Bhagavad Gita, the world's most famous poem that has surprisingly influenced Western thought for centuries. He dives into the often-overlooked theme of leadership within the Gita, emphasizing the timeless principle that leaders must lead by example. Drawing on insights from Chapter 3, James explores how the actions and standards set by leaders influence those around them. He reflects on the profound impact the Gita has had on iconic figures like Thoreau, Emerson, and Gandhi, shaping their philosophies and inspiring social change. As the series wraps up, James encourages listeners to explore the Gita themselves, recommending a thoughtful and transformative reading approach. 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 Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita
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Jan 23, 2024 • 7min

Ep. 70: Gita Series: No Otherness

In this reflective episode, James navigates the profound concept within the Bhagavad Gita encapsulated in the word "Samaha," meaning no otherness. He explores into the lesser-discussed theme of seeing no distinctions in the world, emphasizing that grasping just one word from the Gita, truly understanding and experiencing it, can lead to instant enlightenment. James explores how embracing the idea of Samaha is the pinnacle of spiritual growth, representing the end state and the method to reach enlightenment. Drawing parallels with the concept of expanding rings of identification, he shares the transformative journey from self to community and ultimately to a state of oneness with all. Join James in contemplating the profound wisdom encapsulated in the word "Samaha" as the North Star guiding the path to enlightenment. 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 Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita⁠
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Jan 23, 2024 • 9min

Ep. 69: Gita Series: The Lord's Song: Tuning into Transformation (19 of 20)

In this episode, James untangles the nuanced perspective of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing that it's not merely a hymn from mortals to the Divine but a transformative dialogue meant to be internalized. Exploring the lesser-discussed theme of the Lord's Song, he explores the profound idea that the wisdom within the Gita is not for confirmation but for personal transformation. Drawing parallels from various life experiences, including surfing and parenting, James illustrates how the Gita's teachings resonate across different domains, urging listeners to reflect on its verses over time for a profound shift. Join James on this insightful journey as he highlights the timeless message that the song has been sung for all eternity, waiting for us to tune in. 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 Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita⁠
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Jan 21, 2024 • 8min

Ep. 68: Gita Series: The War Within (18 of 20)

In this episode, James dives into an often-overlooked theme of the Bhagavad Gita, unveiling it as a metaphor for the inner battle within ourselves. Drawing parallels between the epic's narrative of a righteous side facing an unrighteous force and our internal conflict between intellect and mind, James explores the timeless relevance of this ancient wisdom. He emphasizes the significance of cultivating the intellect as the guiding force capable of discerning, reasoning, and observing the mind's fluctuations. Through anecdotes, James connects the inner dialogue depicted in the Gita to our daily struggles, encouraging listeners to recognize the subtle yet powerful presence of their inner equipment. Join us on The Daily Vedantic as we embark on a journey to understand the profound metaphorical battle within, resonating with the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. 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 Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita⁠
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Jan 20, 2024 • 14min

Ep 67: Gita Series: The Psychology of Teaching (17 of 20)

In this pivotal episode of "The Daily Vedantic" Gita Series, we dive into the 'Psychology of Teaching' as illuminated in the Bhagavad Gita. This exploration is part of our comprehensive 20-part series, where we dissect 10 major and 10 minor themes of this profound text. In this episode, we unravel the Gita's insights on the art and psychology behind imparting knowledge, emphasizing the teacher-student relationship and the transformative impact of teaching with awareness and empathy. Join us as we discover how these ancient teachings offer timeless wisdom relevant to educators and learners alike in today's world. 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 Interested in this particular translation of the Bhagavad Gita? Find it here: ⁠https://www.vedantaworld.org/books-and-media/12-books/82-bhagavad-gita⁠

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