Wisdom of the Sages

If your view of God is stuck in an outdated mold—cold, distant, or ready to punish—you might be long overdue for an upgrade. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack how Krishna's extraordinary affection cuts through both atheistic cynicism and impersonal detachment, replacing them with a vision of divine love. Through the story of Krishna and Pūtana, discover a God who blesses even those who try to harm Him, a spiritual path that goes beyond wave-less liberation into the ocean of bliss, and why adding Krishna to life transforms every season—good or bad.

Beneath all our spiritual searching may lie a hidden fear: the fear of the personal Divine. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how that fear hardens one's hearts—limiting one to the impersonal paths of liberation that feel safe but ultimately empty. Through the texts like the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, we uncover how vulnerability isn't weakness—it's the doorway to the deepest yoga, where love becomes real and the Supreme reveals His infinitely sweet, personal nature. Key Highlights: * “To love is to be vulnerable… and only in risk can we overcome darkness.” – Madeleine L'Engle * How our fear of surrender creates emotional armor that blocks love. * Why impersonal liberation can feel peaceful—but cold, distant, and incomplete. * The Bhāgavatam's powerful call to soften the heart and trust the sweetness of the Divine. * Why true spiritual intimacy can feel risky—and why that risk is everything. Discover how the highest yoga is not about withdrawal, but about opening fully to divine love—and why texts like the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam go to such lengths to show us the beauty, tenderness, and kindness of the personal God. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Modern science meets bhakti wisdom: after 75 years of research, Harvard scientists concluded that good relationships—not wealth, fame, or even cholesterol—are the strongest predictor of long-term health and happiness. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha discuss how the bhakti tradition is built on the understanding that life is meant to soften our hearts and train us to live harmoniously with God and every living being. They contrast this meaningful, purpose-driven worldview with the atheist perspective that sees life as random and purposeless—and reveal how bhakti offers a far richer vision of why we're here, how we grow, and how we truly thrive. This theme comes alive as they read about the gopīs' “village science”—washing baby Krishna, chanting mantras, and placing divine names on His body—which illustrates a profound technology of sound and love. Far from superstition, these rituals reflect the healthiest patterns for human life: relationships rooted in service, affection, and divine connection. Key Highlights: * How Vedic “village science” anticipated modern discoveries in vibration and sound. * Why bhakti places relationships—with God, others, and all beings—at the center of spiritual life. * Rituals and mantras as technologies of divine love, not superstition. * And yes, bar-hanging might make you live longer… but bhakti makes life meaningful. Srimad Bhagavatam Texts 10.6.18-30 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

“There are more fake gurus and false teachers in this world than the number of stars in the visible universe.” In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the subtle difference between a true spiritual guide and a manipulative pretender. Drawing from Elif Shafak's The Forty Rules of Love and Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura's insights on the Putana story from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they unpack how pseudo-gurus present themselves as nourishing but actually poison the soul. Topics Include: – The guru as a transparent medium for divine light – Signs of manipulation vs. signs of true guidance – The ancient symbolism of Putana and how it applies today – Why charisma isn't a qualification for spiritual leadership Spirituality calls for an open heart — but not blind trust. Discernment is essential on the path. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

When everything you cling to — your children, your partner, your dreams — slips through your fingers, what are you left with? Raghunath and Kaustubha dive into George Harrison's All Things Must Pass, the wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, and their own stories to explore why loneliness and loss may hold the key to our deepest connection. From Beatles breakups and bittersweet summers to cowherd wisdom and comic book collectibles, they reflect on how impermanence — revealed by time and destiny — can feel devastating but is actually a sacred opportunity to turn within.

The cosmos whispers a message: when life revolves around a center, harmony follows. When it doesn't, we feel the dissonance. But are we listening? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how the universe models harmony for us — through stars, through music, through the very structure of nature — showing that life works best when it revolves around a center. They discuss the tonal center of a musical composition — that gravitational point every musician tunes to — and how even one out‑of‑tune string creates unease. Is the dissonance we feel simply because we've lost touch with our center? Far from limiting us, the center frees us — enabling us to improvise beautifully within harmony. And then comes the Śrīmad‑Bhāgavatam's stunning vision of the spiritual realm: a divine world where every soul revolves joyfully around its center, creating perfect bliss. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Why do we resist turning inward — and what does it cost us? In this spirited episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha confront the uncomfortable truth: that we each have a choice to make — either we discover our true self, or we don't. And if we don't, we risk living an empty life and perpetuating cycles of conflict and injustice. Drawing from the words of Henry David Thoreau, the insights of Black Elk, and the timeless teachings of Bhakti Yoga, they unpack how society's “conveyor belt” keeps us distracted, how desires and fears cloud our inner vision, and how real healing and real justice can only begin with the soul. They also explore the yogic science of purification: how austerity purifies the senses, charity purifies material possessions, and satisfaction purifies the mind — and how these practices open the door to inner peace that transforms not just ourselves but the world around us. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Kahlil Gibran meets the Bhakti Yoga tradition in this sharp and spirited episode of Wisdom of the Sages. Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how real spiritual practice is carried from the temple into every corner of your life — where daily routines, relationships, and even messy moments become sacred offerings. From Saratoga's healing springs to Krishna's father giving away two million cows, this episode uncovers the deeper meaning of ritual, how devotion purifies the mind, and how love transforms the way we see the world. Highlights include: * Khalil Gibran's line: “Your daily life is your temple and your religion. Whenever you enter into it take with you your all.” * Why ritual without heart is just empty choreography. * How devotion purifies the mind like the body's organs purify the blood. * The joy of seeing Krishna — and sacredness — in everyone and everything. ✨ Subscribe and join thousands discovering how to live a sacred life, wherever you are. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

In this wildly entertaining episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha return from their whirlwind retreat and European adventure to tackle what really brings happiness and success—and why chasing them is a losing game. With a healthy dose of humor and wisdom (and a few “squirrel-level-three” tangents), they explore Victor Frankl's profound insight: that fulfillment comes not by pursuing it directly, but by dedicating yourself to something higher. From “getting chieft” in Italy to a Krishna miracle in Bosnia to the cows, sages, and values that uphold a spiritual civilization, this episode is packed with laughs, life lessons, and even some Tony Robbins shoutouts. Key Highlights: * Why even demons need a pep talk sometimes (and what we can learn from it). * The rip current of bhakti—and how it sweeps unsuspecting spouses & teenagers into the ocean of devotion. * Scrooge McDuck, hardcore kids, and the real meaning of success. * How cows, Brahmins, and good values quietly keep the world sane. * Why Prabhupāda's devotees were “really hard to snap” (and what that says about true conviction). * “Squirrels Without Borders”—the new foundation no one asked for but everyone needs.

Paul Simon's bittersweet lyrics set the stage for this raw and funny exploration of why even life-changing insights often slip through our fingers. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack the slippery nature of spiritual determination — and how each of us can make the simple but bold choice to live a meaningful life before the clock runs out. This episode blends music, humor, and timeless wisdom from the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. Highlights include: •⁠  ⁠What Paul Simon teaches us about missing our moment •⁠  ⁠How Kamsa fell back into old ways after glimpsing wisdom — and why we do too •⁠  ⁠Why meaning matters more than magnitude in what we do •⁠  ⁠The elements of a Vishnu-centered society — and the surprising roles of cows and brahmanas Don't let your breakthroughs slip away — tune in now! SB 10.4.28-41 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

The most obvious and pervasive realities are often the hardest to see. Like fish who don't realize they're swimming in water, we move through samsara — the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth — unaware of the forces shaping us. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack the illusion that my experience is the most real, vivid, and important, and explore how yoga wisdom teaches us to zoom out, recognize our connection to the whole, and break free from self-centered existence. Drawing on David Foster Wallace's “default setting,” the story of the fish and the water, and King Yudhiṣṭhira's profound greeting in the Mahābhārata, they reveal how to stop reacting to immediate causes — and start seeing the supreme cause behind everything. Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why samsara — and its lessons — often go unseen •⁠  ⁠The illusion of separateness and self-importance •⁠  ⁠How to greet others in the spirit of liberation •⁠  ⁠How a rock star's madness reveals the trap of ego •⁠  ⁠Why we stay busy counteracting symptoms while ignoring the cause Subscribe and join thousands on the path from illusion to liberation. SB 10.4.26-27 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

When Karma Meets Dharma: Contradictions of Destiny and Duty Do the choices you made in your past life shape the family, friends, and circumstances you're born into? And how do bhakti-yogis navigate a path of dharma that sometimes seems to contradict itself — demanding sacrifice, mercy, or even revenge — all in the name of love? In this live Q&A from Tuscany, Raghunath and Kaustubha tackle two profound questions: how to take radical responsibility (karma) and how to recognize the right course of action when dharma appears to point in conflicting directions. From choosing your parents before birth to uncovering the love hidden in even the toughest moral dilemmas, this conversation reveals how karma and dharma lead us toward spiritual growth — if we trust the divine plan. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

When the Grim Reaper shows up wearing a peacock feather and playing a flute, you know it's time to rethink your priorities. This episode of Wisdom of the Sages dives into the 10th Canto of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, where Time itself — in the form of Krishna — comes calling, leaving tyrants like Kamsa in panic. Live from Italy, Raghunath explores how fear, loss, and even death can awaken us to life's deeper purpose, with a mix of timeless wisdom, vivid storytelling, and plenty of laughs.

At some point, devotion stops being a duty—and starts becoming a dialogue. In this solo Q & A episode, Kaustubha explores how spiritual life matures when it stops being mechanical and starts becoming deeply personal. With humor, clarity, and depth, he answers questions on emotional attachment, the gradations of divine love, and how to relate to God not just in theory—but in the heart. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠How to respond when someone is emotionally attached to you •⁠  ⁠How divine love comes in different gradations of perfection •⁠  ⁠The art of sharing bhakti without alienating others •⁠  ⁠Moving beyond theory: when spiritual life becomes deeply personal •⁠  ⁠Plus: a surprise Krishna miracle on a quiet dirt road #BhaktiYoga #TalkToGod #KrishnaConsciousness #WisdomOfTheSages #PrayerPractice #ConversationWithKrishna #SrimadBhagavatam #KaustubhaDas ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Time doesn't just pass—it devours. In this raw and thought-provoking episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack a powerful moment from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, where the tyrant Kaṁsa wakes in dread, realizing that Time itself—the force that ends all things—has come for him. With lyrical insights from Pink Floyd, unexpected depth from the Insane Clown Posse, and timeless wisdom from ancient India, they explore what it means to live with urgency, die with clarity, and access the eternal—right now. Key Takeaways: •⁠  ⁠“The sun is the same in a relative way—but you're older” •⁠  ⁠Kaṁsa's existential crisis and the arrival of death personified •⁠  ⁠Insane Clown Pundits? — finding truth in unexpected places •⁠  ⁠One good round: the mantra practice that changes everything •⁠  ⁠How Vedic wisdom teaches us to step out of time—and into eternity Time is chasing you. But you can stop running.

In one of the most powerful moments of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, Krishna speaks for the first time—and what He says sheds light on the real aim of yoga, austerity, and spiritual discipline. Raghunath and Kaustubha, joined by Radhanath Swami in the studio, unpack this pivotal teaching: that it's not the practice alone that transforms us, but the devotion that infuses it. Without bhakti, even the most intense austerity leaves us spiritually unfulfilled. With it, every action becomes divine. Tune in for deep insights into Krishna's words, reflections on a moving initiation ceremony, and an honest look at what makes spiritual life real, sweet, and powerful. BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #KrishnaConsciousness #SpiritualPractice #WisdomOfTheSages SB 10.3.36-49 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Could the computer of your mind be full of corrupted files? In this fiery and hilarious episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how ancient yogic wisdom offers a practical system for mental clarity and inner growth. Drawing from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and everyday insight, they explain how tapasya (austerity), prāṇāyāma (breath control), and the guidance of a guru work like an antivirus program to restore your true nature. You'll hear about the dangers of comfort addiction, why meaninglessness thrives in a pleasure-soaked culture, and how purpose + austerity = real growth. And check out the Mahavatar Narsimha film at  https://youtu.be/wkOYEhjAXyo?si=kvLrIDWoPwHmoZeP Whether you're training your breath, resisting temptation, or just trying to stay off the mental junk food, this episode offers a clear, empowering path forward. #BhaktiYoga #Tapasya #SpiritualGrowth #MentalClarity #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam #YogaForTheMind SB 10.3.32-35 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

If you want to keep your heart safe, you must give it to no one—but it'll cost you life's deepest fulfillment. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how Bhakti Vedanta reveals vulnerability not as weakness, but as the key to spiritual growth and the soul's highest potential. They reflect on a striking quote from C.S. Lewis and discuss how the fear of emotional exposure drives many toward impersonalism, while the path of Bhakti embraces risk as sacred. Real love always carries the risk of pain—but in the fulfillment of Bhakti, that pain transforms into something divine. #BhaktiYoga #Vedanta #SpiritualPath #WisdomOfTheSages #CSLewis #DivineLove #VulnerabilityIsStrength #LoveAndSpirituality #BhaktiVedanta SB 10.3.28-35 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

When the world shakes, can you stay anchored? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack how deep spiritual clarity allows one to remain peaceful—even when chaos reigns. Inspired by a lyric from Jimi Hendrix, they explore lessons from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and the film The Fog of War to reveal how fear collapses when we root our peace in truth. It's not apathy—it's clarity. It's not withdrawal—it's preparation for wise engagement. Tune in for stories, insights, and unexpected humor on the path to unshakable peace. SB 10.3.23-27 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Westerners are booking flights to India—not for sightseeing, but to chant Sanskrit mantras in rice fields, live in ashrams, and rise before dawn for kirtan. What's really going on here? In this eye-opening episode, Raghunath speaks with anthropology PhD student Keli Lalita to explore a growing phenomenon: Westerners adopting spiritual practices rooted in ancient India. A yoga class in Brooklyn often leads to a pilgrimage in Vrindavan—and a deeper search for meaning beyond material life. Together, they unpack the global remix of yoga culture, the anthropology of spiritual longing, and why Bhakti Yoga is drawing seekers from all walks of life. Key Topics Include: •⁠  ⁠Why yoga retreats can feel more authentic than everyday life •⁠  ⁠How modern yoga became a cross-cultural conversation •⁠  ⁠The Hare Krishna movement and its Western embrace •⁠  ⁠Family, food, and spiritual structure through the lens of anthropology •⁠  ⁠What people are really seeking when they go to India

A neuroscientist lost a 25-year bet to a philosopher—and it may be one of the most revealing failures in modern science. In 1998, Christof Koch bet David Chalmers that within 25 years, neuroscience would identify the precise brain mechanisms responsible for consciousness. Research teams around the world launched ambitious experiments to track and measure conscious experience in the brain. The deadline came—and the mystery remained. In this fascinating episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack the implications of that failed wager. Why can't the most advanced minds in science explain subjective experience? And what did the ancient yogis know that modern labs still don't? From Vedic insights to modern mind-benders, this episode blends laughter, science, and timeless wisdom in a way only Wisdom of the Sages can. SB 10.3.15-22 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Just like a codebreaker working through symbols can gradually uncover a single unifying truth—a key that makes sense of everything—the spiritual journey can unfold in a similar way. Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how a path of trust, focused attention, and turning inward can reveal a deeper coherence beneath life's confusion. What at first feels chaotic and fragmented—like an unbreakable code—can suddenly click into place when one discovers the truth that pervades it all. The great yogis found that key in the knowledge of Vishnu—the all-pervading presence within and behind everything. And once that truth is grasped, fear dissolves and life begins to make sense. SB 10.3.12-14 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

What matters most in yoga isn't the ritual—it's the transformation of the mind and heart. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the practice of manasa pūjā (mental worship) through the story of Vasudeva mentally offering charity while imprisoned. They unpack why internal devotion is not only valid—but often more powerful than external performance. Whether you're on a yoga mat or stuck in traffic, your inner world is where the real yoga happens.

Pop culture meets divine consciousness in this episode exploring the birth of Krishna—and what it means to be lit up with bhakti. Raghunath and Kaustubha reflect on George Harrison's powerful spiritual insight: “Everyone is looking for Krishna… some don't know it, but they are.” With humor, depth, and wisdom, they unpack why Krishna appears not just anywhere, but in the heart aligned with devotion—and how we can open that space within ourselves.

Raghunath is joined by longtime friend and spiritual brother Henry Schoellkopf for a lively and deeply honest conversation about devotion as action—not just emotion. Drawing from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and decades of lived spiritual experience, they explore what it really means to love—not just God, but people. This episode is part comedy, part confessional, and entirely grounded in yogic truth. Highlights include: •⁠  ⁠“Love isn't a feeling—it's a verb.” •⁠  ⁠Why asking Krishna for stuff doesn't count as a relationship •⁠  ⁠The deeper meaning of seva •⁠  ⁠Turning Washington Square Park into Vaikuntha •⁠  ⁠What a teenager's donut gift reveals about devotion If you've ever wondered how to live your devotion—or why even spiritual burnout can be a blessing—this one's for you.

Some truths hit you like a lightning bolt. Others hover like clouds for years—until something cracks your heart open and lets the rain in. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the invisible barriers that keep spiritual truths from fully landing—the wisdom blockers that arise from fear, ego, or unresolved resistance. They unpack how knowledge matures through humility, devotion, association—and a willingness to get emotionally honest. Drawing from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and reflections on Henry Ward Beecher's insight, the conversation reveals how real wisdom requires more than intellect—it requires openness of heart. BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualGrowth #WisdomBlockers #Personalism #VedicWisdom #YogaPhilosophy #EmotionalHealing #JñānaToBhakti #Transcendence SB 10.2.31-36 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

In a world of shifting narratives and temporary identities, even the most intelligent minds can struggle to find what's truly real. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha turn to the timeless wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam to explore Satyam Param—the highest truth beyond all illusion. From the prayers of the demigods to the nature of the soul and Super Soul, they examine how truth isn't just debated or believed—it's lived, embodied, and revealed through character. Key themes include: • The prayers of the devas and the nature of eternal truth • Relative truth vs. absolute truth • Vedic anatomy and the tree of the body • Truth as something discovered through humility and alignment with the soul Listen now and rediscover what it means to live in truth. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

How does one truly enter a spiritual path—beyond the ritual and formality? It's not about externals—it's about what's alive in the heart. In this eye-opening episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the deeper dimensions of spiritual life, focusing especially on the heart-to-heart transmission of spiritual knowledge, realization, and conviction. Through the lens of Krishna's miraculous appearance in the womb of Devakī—and some fascinating Bhaktivedanta commentaries—they unpack the true meaning of initiation on the bhakti path: not as a mere ceremony, but as the sacred connection when divine consciousness is awakened in the heart of a seeker. Listen in as they discuss: •⁠  ⁠How Krishna consciousness transforms any place into a sacred space •⁠  ⁠The deeper meaning of initiation beyond ritual •⁠  ⁠Why seeing God only in temples—but not in others' hearts—misses the point •⁠  ⁠The mystical transmission from Vasudeva to Devakī •⁠  ⁠Embodying scripture vs. just quoting it This episode is a call to go deeper—beyond external forms, into the heart of spiritual transformation. SB 10.2.16-18 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Spiritual awakening may feel more like a sigh than a celebration. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore why our most profound encounters with beauty—whether through art, music, or moments of stillness—are often blended with a kind of sweet ache or longing. Could that aching sensation be a clue? A sign that the soul is remembering something sacred? Through the lens of bhakti yoga, they unpack the idea of Viśvātmā—God as the soul of the universe—and how real connection is not found through constant searching outward, but by turning within. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠World-renowned geneticist sees the experience of beauty as something beyond neurochemistry •⁠  ⁠Why our most “transcendent” moments may come with a lump in the throat •⁠  ⁠Are we spiritually searching… or just spiritually shopping? •⁠  ⁠How the ache of beauty can be more real than our most comfortable beliefs This is a conversation about art, longing, and the quiet pull toward something eternal—one that might already be inside you. SB 10.2.7-16 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Can ancient Indian wisdom heal the rifts of modern religion? In this mind-expanding and often hilarious episode, Raghunath sits down with author and educator Nitesh Gor (a.k.a. Navin Krishna) to explore his new book Before Religion: Ancient India's Reconciling Vision for Universal Spirituality. From philosophical elephants and Ratha-yatras down Fifth Avenue to quantum physics and peacock-feather cosmology, they unpack what makes the Bhāgavatam a master key for global spiritual unity. Can you be loyal to one tradition without becoming intolerant of others? Does God really care which team you're on? And what if the wildest creation myth is actually… “everything came from nothing”? Key Talking Points: •⁠  ⁠“Why doesn't anyone invite Hare Krishnas to the Christmas party?” •⁠  ⁠Science, philosophy, and spirituality walk into a temple… and agree •⁠  ⁠Vedic culture's soft power: winning hearts with pakoras and Sanskrit •⁠  ⁠Consciousness, the elephant, and the Bhāgavatam—yes, they're connected •⁠  ⁠From Jesus to the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam: building a house the whole world can live in Tune in to Episode 1621 of Wisdom of the Sages for a fresh take on religion, unity, and ancient India's spiritual legacy. Find his book Before Religion: Ancient India's Reconciling Vision for Universal Spirituality at https://a.co/d/26XLez1 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

In this hilarious and revealing Q & A, Raghunath and Kaustubha tackle one of life's most powerful forces—sexual desire—with honesty, insight, and bhakti-based wisdom. It's a down-to-earth exploration of how the yogic tradition views it, and lays out a yogic framework for navigating desire without losing your mind (or your integrity). Highlights include: •⁠  ⁠4 responses to desire: indulge, repress, ignore, or resolve •⁠  ⁠The monk's 8-fold path of NOT having sex •⁠  ⁠How rāsa-līlā becomes a tool for inner purification •⁠  ⁠Why spiritual life doesn't mean becoming rigid or resentful •⁠  ⁠What it takes to truly redirect the energy of desire This one goes deep—and keeps it real. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

With their signature blend of humor and clarity, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack a timeless spiritual principle: real transformation always involves a kind of death—of ego, comfort, or illusion. Drawing from the allegory of Krishna's birth following the death of His six brothers, they explore how the destruction of our lower nature clears the way for divine consciousness to take birth in a purified mind and heart. Key themes include: •⁠  ⁠The cosmic law that death precedes rebirth •⁠  ⁠The symbolism of Devakī's six sons •⁠  ⁠How ego resists—but ultimately must yield to—divine consciousness •⁠  ⁠Self-surrender as the doorway to true spiritual life •⁠  ⁠Preparing the heart as a sacred space for Krishna SB 10.1.67-10.2.6 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Modern society is in the midst of an identity crisis. From gender and race to body image and social status, we're defining, defending, and dividing ourselves by external labels. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how ancient yogic wisdom provides a powerful alternative: knowledge of the self. Through discussion, humor, and insights from the bhakti-yoga tration, they unpack how we can stop tiptoeing around fragile identities and live from the truth of who we really are. Key Themes: •⁠  ⁠Carl Jung's insight on identity and self-definition •⁠  ⁠How real kindness comes from seeing through labels, not tiptoeing around them •⁠  ⁠Identity politics = bubble-wrapping the world / Knowledge of the self = putting on shoes SB 10.1.44-66 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

What if your thoughts today are already shaping your next body? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the deep yogic teaching that the subtle precedes the gross—your desires, thoughts, and habits now are laying the foundation for your future form. Drawing from ancient texts, dream metaphors, and even a few punk-rock detours through Texas, this episode sheds light on how our inner life drives our destiny—and why Krishna is the ultimate object of meditation. New episodes daily. Subscribe and join the global Bhakti journey SB 10.1.41-43 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108  

At any moment, we can initiate a higher level of consciousness—simply by observing the mind instead of identifying with it. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the Bhagavatam's opening to the Tenth Canto, where Vasudeva speaks timeless yogic truth: you are not the body, not the mind—you are something divine. A modern spiritual insight meets ancient Vedic wisdom—and yes, there's even a Raghunath senior discount incident that makes the point unforgettable. SB 10.1.26-40 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

From epic failures and ego clashes to tender moments of empowerment and encouragement, Raghunath and Kaustubha open up about what they love most about Krishna Bhakti—and how it transforms even the most ordinary day into an offering of beauty, meaning, and joy.   In this candid Q & A episode, you'll hear stories of spiritual growth, forgiveness, and the joy that comes from living with a fully invested heart.   Highlights include: • Black-and-white Vedanta vs. full-color Bhakti • One humbling breakfast invitation, one roasted ego, and a lot of growth • Gossip vs. grace: a Bhakti PSA on spiritual etiquette • Parking lot kirtans and singing past your comfort zone • Rūpa Gosvāmī's poetry, Draupadī's forgiveness, and the art of full-hearted living   A rich, funny, and inspiring conversation rooted in the lived experience of Krishna devotion.   Check out Supersoul Farm's first annual kirtan fest at  https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/supersoul-farm-kirtan-fest-tickets-1376536139649?aff=oddtdtcreator Check out Radhanath Swami's class on how to treat people at   https://youtu.be/ed0Effi7Kfo?si=b97G8C-cUaBtVWf6 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Modern spirituality often says yoga is all about the journey. But is that what the ancient teachings really meant? In this focused and eye-opening Q & A episode, Kaustubha explores samādhi and the true aim of yoga. Drawing from the Upanishads and Bhakti tradition, he reveals how yoga isn't aimless—it's intentional, transformational, and love-driven. You'll also hear how Krishna's call for surrender in the Bhagavad-gītā—often misunderstood as bossy—is actually rooted in compassion and transcendental clarity. What You'll Learn: •⁠  ⁠The real goal of samādhi and how yoga stays focused •⁠  ⁠Why Krishna asks for everything—and how it's not about ego •⁠  ⁠How even negative emotions can purify when directed toward God •⁠  ⁠Shishupala's surprising liberation through hatred •⁠  ⁠Why Krishna's confidence isn't arrogance—and what it means for us This isn't vague spiritualism—it's grounded wisdom for the seeker who wants clarity, depth, and a target worth aiming for. Listen now and rediscover why love—with direction—is the heart of yoga. ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Could ancient yogis have tapped into a science we still don't understand? Mystical experiences—like hearing divine messages within the heart—may sound like fantasy today, but 300 years ago a FaceTime call would've seemed like wizardry. Arthur C. Clarke famously said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how imagination and humility may be the keys to rediscovering spiritual truths often mistaken for myth. Highlights include: •⁠  ⁠Why Einstein called imagination more important than knowledge •⁠  ⁠Yoga maya vs. Maha maya: illusion that either binds or liberates •⁠  ⁠Why Krishna never incarnates alone—and who He brings with Him •⁠  ⁠Debunking the debunkers: why unseen doesn't mean unreal •⁠  ⁠Raghunath's mantra for spiritual openness: “Could be.” Tune in as ancient stories, modern minds, and timeless truths come together in the pages of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam. SB 10.1.21-25 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108

Raghunath and Kaustubha explore the message of need to sift perspect shared in Srimad Bhagavatam.  Seeking to relive the suffering of Mother Earth, the gods and goddesses gather for an epic moment of clarity—chanting the Purusha Sukta hymn of the Vedas. What follows is a brilliant meditation on zooming out of our small dramas and plugging into the greater cosmic intelligence behind it all.   Raghunath shares a story of fatherly panic as his daughter falls ill across the ocean, while Kaustubha unpacks the deeper meaning of the universe as a unified being—rooted in the divine Purusha. Carl Sagan makes a guest appearance, reminding us from 4 billion miles away that Earth is but a speck in the void—and our self-importance might need a little deflation.   Key Highlights: • “Our imagined self-importance is challenged by this point of pale light.” – Carl Sagan • How chanting Purusha Sukta re-centers the mind and soul • A fine line between spiritual detachment and showing up for those we love • Learning to see God's hands when His face is hidden • Why the Bhagavatam is the “superfood” of spiritual literature  

From parenting struggles in spiritual life to the elusive experience of deep japa meditation – Vulnerability meets wisdom in this very real Q & A episode recorded live at the Wisdom of the Sages Retreat. Whether you're trying to inspire your kids, stay inspired yourself, or figure out what absorption in the japa meditation actually feels like, this episode has something for you.

When your spiritual ideals meet your messy, modern life—what gives? In this live Q & A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha tackle real-world questions from sincere seekers navigating work, relationships, insecurity, and the struggle for spiritual progress. With wisdom, clarity, and plenty of humor, they explore how Bhakti yoga applies when the employees let you down, the self-doubt runs deep, and the to-do list feels longer than the Ganges. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠My contract with my employee vs my contract with the Universe •⁠  ⁠Can Bhakti heal your emotional wounds—or is that your therapist's job? •⁠  ⁠“I'm not the Spiller!”—Raghunath gets cornered by family karma •⁠  ⁠How to climb out of your own karmic hole (and invite others to your cloud) •⁠  ⁠What to prioritize in a full, chaotic life—and why India may be the next step Join the community of thousands tuning in daily for authentic, accessible yoga wisdom that meets you where you are—and points you toward where you want to go.

Raghunath and Kaustubha tackle powerful questions about surrender, purpose, and love in this live Q&A from Super Soul Farm—offering timeless bhakti wisdom on the struggles modern seekers face. What does surrender really look like in practice? How do you discover your dharma without drowning in options? Can you strive for spontaneous love of God without ruining its spontaneity? This episode brings clarity to the most misunderstood teachings of bhakti, grounding them in the lived experience of devotion. No platitudes—just real talk, deep insights, and a spiritual path that meets you where you are. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Six practical symptoms of surrender—and why they're anything but weakness •⁠  ⁠How to avoid “mission drift” in your spiritual life •⁠  ⁠Why Krishna is already loving you—and what's blocking you from feeling it •⁠  ⁠Service, identity, and the paradox of modern dharma •⁠  ⁠The difference between faking it and practicing it •⁠  ⁠Greed is good—when it's for divine love

One of the most sacred dynamics in all of yoga culture - the relationship between teacher and student—has become both feared and misunderstood as it's been transferred from India to the West. In this potent episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how spiritual truth flows not from information alone, but from affection, humility, and mutual sincerity. What unfolds is a spirited, honest, and occasionally hilarious exploration of how and why the guru-disciple model endures—even in an age where trust is hard to come by and everyone's got an “enlightenment moment” in their Instagram bio. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠“Victim mentality kills growth.” •⁠  ⁠A lesson from Mahābhārata: If you can't find someone better than you, you're probably not looking hard enough •⁠  ⁠Understanding the friendliness and familiarity with a teacher •⁠  ⁠Transmission of truth is never just intellectual—it's relational This episode is a call to seek wisdom where it's real, not just where it's trending.

There's a big difference between asking, “How can I change this?” and asking, “What am I meant to learn from this?” In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how asking bigger, zoomed-out questions can unlock real transformation—and how Krishna's pastimes, far from being mere spiritual folklore, offer the deepest answers to the soul's most urgent needs. They discuss how these pastimes are meant to be approached not just through a religious lens, but through an ontological, metaphysical, and Vedantic one—and that's when their true power is revealed. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠How shallow questions keep us stuck, and zoomed-out questions can set us free •⁠  ⁠Why good questions aren't always comfortable—but they crack things open •⁠  ⁠How to identify life's summum bonum—and reorient everything around it •⁠  ⁠Seeing Krishna's life through a metaphysical lens—not just a religious one •⁠  ⁠The danger of a life built on speed and comfort, but no direction SB 10.1.1-8 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Hearing the right kind of content - it doesn't just inform you—it reforms you. It clears the mind, purifies the intelligence and equips you to easily withstand all sorts of changes, difficulties and discrepancies. Drawing from yogic wisdom and Bhaktivedanta Swami's piercing commentary, this episode explores how real transformation begins with sound. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why gossip and news media ruin your day •⁠  ⁠How sacred sound rewires the mind to reject lower pleasures without repression •⁠  ⁠From anxiety to equanimity: how a shift in hearing shifts everything •⁠  ⁠Stoic meets yogi: focus on how we respond to the world •⁠  ⁠Bhaktivedanta Swami's formula for facing hardship with unwavering peace

Before there were influencers, there was the sage Vyāsa—the original content creator.  In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha stand at the threshold of Vyāsa's ultimate contribution: the telling of Krishna's pastimes in the Tenth Canto of the Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam. But before Krishna enters the stage, they explore what makes these narratives far more than mythology. These aren't just quaint stories or cultural folklore—they're the ultimate object of awareness - living streams of divine sound, expertly composed to reprogram the mind, dissolve the thirst for material life and satisfy the innner self. ⸻

Misunderstood warriors, falsely accused maidens, hardhearted mystic yogis, remorseful sages, sex-addicted kings— The stories of the Ninth Canto of the Bhāgavatam reflect not just historical characters, but the shadows we all carry within. At the cusp of entering the climactic Tenth Canto, Raghunath and Kaustubha review the string of stories leading up to it. With a little help from Carl Jung, they unpack a core principle often echoed in the bhakti tradition: while the path is centered on divine light, the great bhakti-yogis never ignored the shadows in their own hearts.

What is Evil? Different tradition have different ideas. In this compelling Q & A episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how the Bhakti tradition understands darkness, Satan, and the concept of evil. Is it a cosmic force? A personal being? Or simply the absence of divine light? Other questions include how to navigate workplace obligations at bars while maintaining spiritual sobriety, and what pure devotional service looks like in today's world. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Evil explained Bhakti-style: darkness isn't a rival force—it's what happens when we turn away from the light •⁠  ⁠What to do when your boss schedules meetings in a bar (spoiler: garlic-soaked pizza may also be involved) •⁠  ⁠Pure devotion demystified: how love shows up in kirtan, service, and yes, even chicken coop assignments •⁠  ⁠Lessons from Mussolini to CBGB's: the slippery slope of bad choices and the art of guarding your inner light •⁠  ⁠It's not about being judgmental—but about choosing clarity over compromise

Indian hospitality, the soft heart of a mother, and the Dog-Man of Tompkins Square Park all intersect in this powerful exploration of yoga. Drawing from the Maha Upanishad and the insight of Albert Schweitzer, Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack a central bhakti truth: that genuine love of God expresses itself as compassion for all living beings—not just the ones who vote like you, think like you, or smell like you. At the heart of this episode is the unforgettable tale of King Rantideva from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam—a king whose radical acts of generosity and deep spiritual faith push us to reconsider what it really means to live a spiritual life.

Your mind is like an algorithm. Click on lust, fear, or resentment—and guess what shows up on your mental feed? In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore Yoga is a way to reset the algorithm, and explore the mind as both a garden and a walled city with guarded gates. Drawing from James Allen's classic As a Man Thinketh and the final verses of King Yayāti's transformation in the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they unpack how thought is causal, attention is destiny, and bhakti is the ultimate reprogramming of the heart.

From Vedic kings to aging rock stars, this episode maps the journey from pleasure to emptiness to liberation. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack why letting go of material desire—before the body gives out—is the key to spiritual freedom. Featuring: •⁠  ⁠King Yayāti, Lord Brahmā, Stephen Hawking, Billy Idol & David Lee Roth •  Addiction psychology meets Vedic wisdom •⁠  ⁠Why renunciation is the real glow-up •⁠  ⁠How material sex desire is a pale reflection of Krishna's divine love