Vedic mythos, or storytelling, is often laced with humor to get a point across. 

In this episode of the podcast, Thom recounts a tale from the Katha Upanishad, of a Sergeant and a General. It’s a scenario that wouldn’t look out of place in an episode of “The Office” or any other workplace sitcom. 

Having a character take credit for someone else’s idea and then retelling it back to them is a pretty common gag, but in the Upanishad, it’s much more than just a tool for a cheap laugh. 

It’s a profound lesson which, once learned, can be a source of empowerment and a tool for living a more deliberate life.

Episode Highlights

[00:56] Katha Upanishad

[03:19] A Friend in the Sky

[05:27] The Breaking of Unity

[07:31] "You see that hill there?"

[09:57] An Amazing Idea

[11:44] A Source of Thoughts Deep Inside of Us

[14:11] A Wave is Nothing but Ocean

[16:44] Desire

[19:12] I Am Totality

[21:28] A Parody on Praying to God

[22:39] An Unnecessary Step

[23:52] We Just Say Yes

[26:53] Permitted to Act

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Registration is now open for Thom’s only rounding retreat for 2026, in Sedona from May 21-25.

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You’ll enjoy delicious retreat-friendly meals and the beauty and healing powers of the Red Rocks of Sedona. 

Register before February 28th and you’ll save $500 on your retreat fee. 

You can find out more at thomknoles.com/sedona.