The Daily Vedantic

James Beshara
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Mar 29, 2024 • 9min

On Discomfort

In this episode, James considers the principle of Tatiksha, which emphasizes finding joy and pleasure in discomfort, a concept often overlooked in Western philosophies. He discusses how Vedanta teaches us to cultivate happiness even in challenging situations, ultimately leading to personal growth and fulfillment. James shares practical examples of embracing discomfort, from avoiding gossip to confronting difficult conversations, highlighting how rewiring our mindset can transform our lives. Join James as he explores the profound implications of embracing discomfort as a pathway to inner peace and liberation. Tune in to learn how this principle can revolutionize your approach to 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
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Mar 28, 2024 • 19min

The Role of Community

In this episode, James reflects on the critical role of community in Vedantic philosophy, challenging conventional Western views. Drawing from a story about the Buddha, he emphasizes the significance of Sangha / Satsang, or community of the true, in the pursuit of the ultimate Truth. James explores how the community shapes our thoughts, actions, and choices, serving as a guiding force towards enlightenment. He highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with a culture that fosters growth in truth, both online and offline, in person, or the media we consume. Join James as he dives into the profound impact of satsang, a community of the true, on our journey towards self-realization 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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Mar 26, 2024 • 7min

Truth is Not Words

In this episode James continues the exploration of truth within Vedantic philosophy. He emphasizes that truth cannot be encapsulated in philosophical views, verses, or books, as Vedanta itself describes the philosophy as part of the illusion it seeks to dispel. James compares Vedanta to a dream lion that wakes one up from a dream but remains part of the dream itself. He highlights the danger of becoming attached to spiritual concepts and words, noting that truth is not found in written or spoken words but is an experiential reality. James critiques the tendency to seek truth in words and concepts, arguing that while words may contain relative truths, the ultimate truth transcends language and is realized through direct experience. He concludes by reaffirming that the capital "T" truth is an experience, not something found in words or books. Through this reflection, James encourages listeners to look beyond words and concepts and seek truth through direct experience. The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound. James Beshara (https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles. James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect ). James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
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Mar 25, 2024 • 7min

Attachment ‘N Darkness

In this episode James looks into a lesser-known aspect of spiritual philosophy, cautioning against becoming overly attached to spiritual concepts and ideas. Drawing from the Ishavasya Upanishad, James highlights the dangers of attachment, whether to material possessions or spiritual concepts, emphasizing that both are forms of selfish attachment. He discusses how attachment to spiritual concepts can lead to a sense of superiority and blindness to other sources of wisdom. James underscores that truth is not found in concepts or books but is an experiential reality, and attachment to concepts can hinder one from experiencing truth directly. Through this reflection, James encourages listeners to transcend attachment and approach spirituality with humility and openness to experience truth firsthand. 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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Mar 24, 2024 • 9min

The Central Contribution

In this episode James explores the fundamental importance of the intellect in Vedanta philosophy and its practical implications for daily life. He emphasizes that while many philosophies focus on theoretical aspects, Vedanta uniquely highlights the central role of the intellect in guiding the mind. Drawing on the analogy of a river with strong or weak banks, James illustrates how a strong intellect acts as sturdy banks, guiding the powerful flow of the mind and preventing it from causing havoc. He underscores the significance of recognizing and developing this aspect of ourselves to navigate life more skillfully and purposefully. Through Vedanta's teachings on the intellect, James highlights its timeless wisdom and practical relevance in modern times. 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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Mar 23, 2024 • 7min

Questions Are Sacred

In this episode James explores the profound significance of questioning within the philosophy of Vedanta. Despite not growing up in an environment where questions were revered, James emphasizes how Vedanta teaches that questions are sacred because they lead to subjective understanding and internalization of truth. He reflects on the necessity of rigorous questioning and the importance of receiving rational answers from qualified sources. Through Vedanta's emphasis on questioning everything, James underscores its unique approach to knowledge acquisition and personal growth. The Daily Vedantic is a daily podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to the timeless wisdom of the Upanishads (https://www.thedailyvedantic.co). Dating back to over 5,000 years ago, the source of nearly all Eastern Philosophy, and loved by Western giants from Emerson to Thoreau to Carl Jung and Alan Watts, studied daily by Joseph Campbell to Aldous Huxley to Arthur Schopenhauer and countless others, The Daily Vedantic aims to make this ancient philosophy as modern and accessible as it is simple, practical — and profound. James Beshara (https://www.twitter.com/jamesbeshara) is a renowned startup founder of multiple companies, a prolific startup investor in 200+ others including some of the biggest startup names on the planet, a husband and father of three little girls, and philosophy student and teacher in Los Angeles. James also co-hosts Yoga For Your Intellect (https://www.YFYI.co), a biweekly long-form conversational podcast with his teacher Joseph Emmett ( https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyourintellect ). James is a student of Swami Parthasarathy, the acclaimed author of Vedanta Treatise (Vedanta Treatise – The Eternities)  and teacher at Vedanta Academy in Malavli, India. As James says often, when you’re ready for the real thing, Swami’s daily lectures are where the true wisdom and systematic discovery of the world’s oldest continually studied philosophy resides: https://www.vedantaworld.org
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Mar 22, 2024 • 12min

System of a Flow

In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James examines the systematic flow of Vedanta, emphasizing its structured and comprehensive approach to philosophy. He highlights the meticulous writing and organization of Vedantic knowledge, praising the philosophy's transformative effects on daily routines. James reflects on the effortless incorporation of Vedantic principles into his life, from waking up early for study to maintaining physical health. The episode underscores Vedanta's unique systematic approach and its ability to make daily practices feel harmonious and transformative for practitioners. 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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Mar 20, 2024 • 10min

The Secret Key

In this episode of "The Daily Vedantic," James looks into the secret key of Vedanta—a philosophy that unlocks transformative insights when applied daily. The three essential practices within this philosophy—questioning everything, not taking anything for granted, and studying and reflecting daily—are discussed. James emphasizes the significance of daily study and reflection as the secret key to Vedanta, addressing the root problem of attachment. He likens attachment to a virus with no cure, suggesting that the daily practice of studying and reflecting serves as an inoculation. The episode underscores the necessity of this practice to navigate the complexities of life and cultivate a deeper understanding of 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
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Mar 19, 2024 • 7min

A Definition of Love

In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James explores the profound concept of love within Vedanta, sharing a definition that transcends common notions. Within this timeless philosophy, love is identified as seeing no otherness in the world—an exercise of total identification. James contrasts this with preferential attachment, highlighting the tendency to love based on how someone or something makes us feel. The Vedantic definition calls for complete surrender, not confined to isolated cases or chosen individuals. James reflects on the transformative power of understanding love as sameness, emphasizing the depth and significance this definition brings to the four-letter word. The episode concludes with an invitation to contemplate this profound perspective on love in the context of Vedanta. 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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Mar 18, 2024 • 10min

Life Manual

In this episode of The Daily Vedantic, James looks into the profound wisdom of Vedanta as a manual for living, sharing insights on its unexpected popularity and relevance in addressing life's challenges. Exploring the role of suffering as a catalyst for seeking wisdom, James introduces the key principle of Vedanta – wisdom is the capacity to see the end in the beginning. Emphasizing the philosophy's accessibility, he encourages viewers to explore this transformative manual and highlights the importance of finding a knowledgeable teacher for guidance. Contrasting modern advertisements' pursuit of happiness, James unveils Vedanta's timeless perspective that happiness is our natural state, offering a conscious and purposeful approach to life's decisions. The episode concludes with an invitation to continue the journey of self-discovery through Vedanta's daily guidance for a harmonious and fulfilling 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

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