Yechiel Krisch
Yechiel Krisch
246 episodes 1 show
Yechiel Krisch is a Rav and Mashpia who specializes in Chabad Hasidic philosophy and the intersection between science, technology, medicine, and authentic Judaism. A seasoned lecturer and sought-after speaker, he holds academic degrees in biology, health, and science journalism, and ordination as a rabbi and rabbinic judge. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Scientific American, Popular Mechanics, and several other international publications (byline Joshua A. Krisch). Previously, he conducted cancer research, worked as an EMT, flew single-engine airplanes, and served as a Chabad emissary to Ithaca College. He now lives in upstate New York, where he delivers daily and weekly Torah classes and works in the Biomedical Communications Department at The Rockefeller University.
Popular Shows
#
Name
Release Date
Duration
1
Aliens
Aliens
Jul 9, 2026
34:51
The Rebbe sees no issue with the idea of extraterrestrials (and maybe even UFOs), but provides three important guidelines for how we are to think about life on other planets.
2
Benedictine
Benedictine
Jun 30, 2026
31:09
Benedictine, a sweet and complex brand of liqueur, was present on the Rebbe's Farbrengen table for years until complaints about its Kashrus led to its removal. This Shiur tells the story of the rise and fall (and, perhaps, resurgence?) of Benedictine in Lubavitch through letters, Sichos, and stories. L'Chaim!
3
Encouraging Shabbos Violation
Encouraging Shabbos Violation
Jun 30, 2026
27:04
You may have heard the expression: "if you're going to drive on Shabbos anyway, you may as well drive to shul" or the memorable quote attributed to a great Tzadik: "Come however you want, whenever you want." While the underlying message of love is certainly valuable, this Shiur demonstrates that the position itself is contrary to the Rebbe's Shita, against his explicit instructions, and almost certainly against Jewish law.
4
How Can We Put Tefillin On Unobservant Jews?
How Can We Put Tefillin On Unobservant Jews?
Feb 13, 2024
33:26
The Rebbe writes an FAQ responding to claims against Mivtza Tefillin, providing us with compelling answers to those who oppose the project and believe, mistakenly, that it is forbidden to put Tefillin on Jews who are not yet observant. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
5
When Helping Israel Hurts
When Helping Israel Hurts
Feb 5, 2024
22:49
In response to those who want to help the situation in Israel by violating a Torah law, the Rebbe gives one consistent answer: you're right that there's a fire, but you're trying to put it out with kerosene. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
6
Women in the Military
Women in the Military
Feb 6, 2024
28:49
A deep dive into the Rebbe's firm position against women being drafted into or voluntarily joining the military. Plus: a discussion afterwards about whether the Rebbe's letters written 30-40 years ago apply in modern Israel, where recent initiatives have made the IDF more hospitable to observant Jews. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
7
Why We Need Boots on the Ground
Why We Need Boots on the Ground
Feb 8, 2024
23:55
The Rebbe offers advice and general guidance constantly, but when it comes to specific situations he often defers to local authorities. Today we explore the reason for that, expressed in many letters (mostly regarding teachers and schools): "one can only judge based on what one can see with one's own eyes." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
8
Art, Drawing, and Painting
Art, Drawing, and Painting
Feb 20, 2024
24:32
The Rebbe describes an artist's job as revealing the inner nature of all things and breathing life into the inanimate. He also celebrates the potential of the visual arts in inspiring divine service--the Previous Rebbe praised the potential of landscape paintings, and the Rebbe Rashab was inspired by his visit to the Louvre. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
9
Doubts in Faith (Part I: The Previous Rebbe)
Doubts in Faith (Part I: The Previous Rebbe)
Jan 22, 2024
25:11
In honor of 10 Shvat 5784, we look at a letter from the Friediker Rebbe that addresses Sfeikos in Emunah--what to do when one doubts the existence of G-d. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support
10
Mental Health (Therapists & Conditions)
Mental Health (Therapists & Conditions)
Feb 16, 2024
27:18
Exploring whether the Rebbe considers mental health professionals "doctors". Plus, responses to patients with specific conditions including: OCD, Schizophrenia, Suicidal Ideation, and Addiction. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/yechiel-krisch1/support