

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

Dec 7, 2023 • 6min
Ep. 26: Universal Love
This episode delves into the Vedantic perspective of 'Universal Love', distinguishing it from preferential attachment and romantic notions. Universal love is about seeing no otherness in the world, going beyond personal attachments to a broader sense of identification with all. Christ's example, as depicted in the Vedanta Treatise, illustrates this love perfectly, showcasing forgiveness and unity even in extreme adversity. The episode encourages expanding our understanding of love to include this universal identification, transcending mere affection or attachment.

Dec 6, 2023 • 9min
Ep. 25: Discomfort & Growth
In today's episode, we explore the concept of 'Divine Discomfort', the feeling of unease when elevating to higher ideals. It highlights how this discomfort signals growth, as we shift from self-centered goals to broader, more meaningful objectives. The episode uses practical examples to illustrate how enduring initial discomfort leads to long-term alignment and fulfillment, encouraging listeners to embrace these challenging but transformative moments.

Dec 5, 2023 • 6min
Ep. 24: The Amplifying Effect
Today's reflection delves into how Vedanta, as explained by Swami Vivekananda, doesn't seek to convert but to amplify one's existing beliefs and life approach. This philosophy acts as a “manual for life,” enhancing understanding and efficiency in pursuing life's goals. It's about awakening to potentials and avoiding pitfalls, not replacing but enriching one's existing path, whether in religion or 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

Dec 5, 2023 • 8min
Ep. 23: Cultivating the Witness
Today's episode focuses on developing the 'Sakshi' or the witness within, a key concept in Vedanta. Learn how observing our behaviors and reactions, like compulsive habits, can reveal deeper underlying issues. This reflection encourages cultivating an objective awareness of our internal states and actions, offering insights into how self-awareness can lead to healthier choices and a deeper understanding of oneself.
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

Dec 5, 2023 • 20min
Ep. 22: Aware of the Inevitable
This episode delves into handling life's inevitable crises with realism and preparedness. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding our emotional responses to challenging situations. By cultivating a realistic mindset, we can stay a step ahead in being helpful and effective during tough times, embracing life's full spectrum, including its inevitable end.
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

Dec 2, 2023 • 9min
Ep. 21: The History of Yoga
Dive into the diverse and rich history of yoga in this episode, where we explore its true essence beyond the commonly known Hatha Yoga. Understand how yoga, in its original form, encompasses Karma, Bhakti, and Jnana Yoga, each offering unique paths to divine union. Discover how these traditional practices transcend physical exercise, focusing on service, devotion, and knowledge, and learn how they can enhance personal growth and spiritual connection.
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

Dec 1, 2023 • 7min
Ep. 20: How We Are Designed
Explore Vedanta's crucial teaching on navigating life using three key equipments: body, mind, and intellect. This episode focuses on the intellect as a guiding force, essential for making wise, long-term decisions. Learn to cultivate this subtle tool to align daily actions with future goals and avoid impulsive mistakes.
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

Dec 1, 2023 • 5min
Ep. 19: Beyond Optimism
This episode of The Daily Vedantic explores the limitations of optimism and the importance of realism. We delve into how Vedanta views life as a series of opposites, much like the ebb and flow of waves, and why simply hoping for the best can leave us unprepared. Drawing on the wisdom of Vedanta and real-world examples, the discussion underscores the value of being prepared for life's inevitable challenges. It's a call to adopt a realistic approach, balancing hope with the awareness of potential difficulties, and understanding that true philosophical wisdom lies in embracing realism.
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

Dec 1, 2023 • 7min
Ep. 18: Let’s Get Realized
This episode of The Daily Vedantic delves into Vedanta's ultimate goal: liberation. It emphasizes that all pursuits, whether direct or symbolic, are essentially quests for freedom and self-realization. The episode goes beyond Vedanta's practical aspects, inviting listeners to embrace their true, limitless nature. It's a motivational call to action, encouraging a journey towards understanding and achieving our ultimate potential. "Let's Get Realized" is more than a catchy tagline; it's a pathway to profound self-discovery and limitless infinitude.
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

Dec 1, 2023 • 7min
Ep. 17: Divine Discomfort
Learn how enduring and embracing discomfort can lead to immense spiritual and personal growth. This discussion highlights the role of the intellect in guiding us through challenging situations, transforming them into opportunities for inner development and a deeper connection with the self and the divine. It's a journey into understanding how discomfort, when approached with discernment and patience, can be a powerful catalyst for strengthening our inner selves and achieving true 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


