The Daily Vedantic

In this episode, James dives into the crucial concept of balance within Vedanta, exploring the often-misinterpreted idea of renunciation and the necessity of moderation. He highlights the unique perspective of Vedanta, which emphasizes the middle path—a balance articulated in Chapter 6, verse 8 of the Bhagavad Gita. James draws attention to the significance of regulated sleep, moderation in diet and recreation, and maintaining balance in work. Contrary to extreme notions, Vedanta advocates for a holistic approach, steering away from the 'go, go, go' mentality. Using examples from personal experiences and the teachings of Swami Parthasarathi, James underscores the importance of incorporating balance into our lives, even in the pursuit of spiritual growth. Join us on The Daily Vedantic as we explore the timeless wisdom of the Gita, shedding light on the path of moderation and equilibrium. 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

In this episode, James dives into the often misunderstood concept of renunciation within Vedanta, exploring the misinterpretations surrounding asceticism and self-denial. Contrary to the common image of a renunciate giving up everything and living in seclusion, James presents a profound perspective—renunciation is not about giving up but about taking up something higher. He underscores that renunciation is an effect, not a cause, and compares it to a natural progression, much like outgrowing childhood toys. Drawing from personal experiences and the teachings of the Gita, James emphasizes that one can pursue wealth or success while remaining unattached and governed by higher ideals. Join us on The Daily Vedantic as we unravel the true essence of renunciation, transcending popular misconceptions. 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

Join us in this full-length episode of "The Daily Vedantic" as we dive into the intriguing interplay of Fate Vs. Freewill. Drawing from Vedantic wisdom, we discuss the profound concept that while we are shaped by our past, we hold the power to craft our future. This episode explores the delicate balance between destiny and the choices we make, examining how our actions and decisions shape our journey. "We are a product of our past, but we are producers of our future" – a mantra that guides this episode, encouraging listeners to understand their role in shaping their destinies. Tune in as we unravel the mysteries of fate and the power of freewill in our lives. 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

In this enlightening episode of "The Daily Vedantic," James continues our 20-part series on the Bhagavad Gita. We dive into the nuanced role of the individual in society from a Vedantic perspective. We explore the idea that beyond our duties, identities, and obligations, lies a deeper calling where work performed without attachment transcends into a form of worship. This episode examines how each individual's actions contribute to the larger societal fabric and how detaching from personal gain elevates our contributions to a higher, more spiritual plane. Join us as we uncover the profound impact of selfless service and its significance in both personal growth and societal harmony. 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

In this episode, James continues our 20-part series on the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on under-discussed themes within Vedanta. Today's reflection explores the often-overlooked topic of contextual ethics and the perspective Vedanta offers. Unlike other philosophies with extensive commandments, Vedanta sees sin as that which agitates the mind, not as a list of external rules being broken. James emphasizes the context of ethical decisions, highlighting that it's not just about what you do but the intention behind it. Drawing from Arjuna's dilemma in the Gita, he delves into the crucial idea that it's not the act itself but the intention behind the act that truly matters in the end. Join us as we navigate the nuances of ethical choices in The Daily Vedantic. 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

In this episode, James reflects on the often under-discussed themes within the sacred philosophy of Vedanta, particularly drawing inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita. Contrary to conventional beliefs, Vedanta values questioning and reason as Arjuna's victory is attributed to his relentless inquiry. James shares a poignant story of a friend's curiosity being frowned upon in a different religious context, highlighting the unique approach of Vedanta that encourages individuals to make the teachings their own through thoughtful questioning. He emphasizes the transformative power of reflection, asserting that experiencing these profound concepts requires not just listening but active engagement and continuous questioning. Join us on The Daily Vedantic as we delve into the depth of Vedanta, fostering a culture of curiosity and self-inquiry. 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

In this episode, James explores the 10th major theme within the Bhagavad Gita—inner peace and control. He emphasizes the practicality of Sahaja Yoga, describing it as a philosophy that is both practical and profound. The focus is on self-control, a major theme in the Gita that revolves around harnessing the inner equipments of the mind and intellect. James explains that the intellect is crucial for cultivating self-control, acting as the capacity to see the end in the beginning. Developing the intellect involves questioning everything, avoiding complacency, and engaging in daily study and reflection. This intellectual development enables individuals to navigate life effectively, managing distractions and pursuing higher ideals. 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

In this episode, James dives into a fundamental theme of the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta— the illusory nature of the world, known as Maya. Drawing parallels between this philosophy and the experience of dreams, he explores the idea that what we perceive as real may be a projection of our own mind or, more precisely, a result of our ignorance. James contrasts the dream state with the waking state, emphasizing the limitations of our perceptions in determining reality. While acknowledging the initial skepticism many may have, he suggests that Vedanta challenges us to question the reliability of our perceptions and invites us to explore the profound implications of the illusory nature of the world. Join us for this intriguing reflection on the Daily Vedantic. 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

In this episode, James continues his exploration of the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on the crucial theme of righteousness and ethics. Drawing parallels between Western and Vedantic philosophical perspectives, he emphasizes the significance of right action in generating energy and wrong action in dissipating it. James discusses the role of intellect as the discerning force that guides ethical decision-making, highlighting its capacity to see the end in the beginning. Through the lens of Vedanta, he dives into the concept of duty, stressing the importance of performing one's obligatory duty as a path to righteousness. Join us for this insightful reflection on the Daily Vedantic. 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

In this episode, James dives into the profound theme of the immortality of the soul within the Bhagavad Gita, the world's most famous poem. Drawing on the timeless wisdom of Vedanta, James challenges the common identification of the self with the body, mind, and intellect. Through a thought-provoking exploration, he highlights that true identity lies in pure awareness or consciousness, described in Sanskrit as Brahman, the vast reality. Using relatable examples, James guides listeners to recognize the observer within, distinct from the observed, ultimately emphasizing the immortal nature of the self. Join us in this insightful reflection on the Daily Vedantic. 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