Popular Shows by Human & Holy Human & Holy
227 episodes
#
Name
Release Date
Duration
101
Making Space for My Humanity with Tzippy Piekarski
Making Space for My Humanity with Tzippy Piekarski
Aug 13, 2023
49:17
What blocks us from connecting deeply to the people around us? How do our futile attempts to circumvent our humanity, end up shutting us down from connecting to our loved ones and to G-d? Today, Tzippy Piekarski describes her struggle to connect with her loved ones, and how making space for her humanity ultimately allowed her to connect deeply with her soul and the world. || Tzippy can be reached via [email protected] || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
102
Returning to My Soul with Amanda Spiro
Returning to My Soul with Amanda Spiro
Aug 20, 2023
57:30
Cancer was Amanda’s catalyst to returning to her soul. How did the stillness of treatment force her to step off of the rat race of her life? How did it help her tune into the still, small voice inside that she’d had since she was a young girl, the voice that whispered that there was more to life than what could be seen on the surface? || Amanda can be reached via amandaspiro.com || This episode was sponsored by Devorah Bukiet, in honor of her special friend Amanda, who does incredible work, living her life like an emissary of the Rebbe and a soldier of G-d. To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
103
Did You Hear What I Meant to Say? with Sara Esther Crispe
Did You Hear What I Meant to Say? with Sara Esther Crispe
Aug 27, 2023
1:02:14
How can we approach the people we care most about with clear communication? What can the mitzvah of mikvah teach us about the deepest level of communication in our romantic relationships? And in general, when it comes to all our relationships, how can we work from the inside out, so that we show up with our words in the most wholesome, connected way possible? || To get in touch with Sara Esther, email [email protected]. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
104
Chai Elul: A Raw Farbrengen About Being A Chossid with Sima Goldstein
Chai Elul: A Raw Farbrengen About Being A Chossid with Sima Goldstein
Sep 3, 2023
59:41
Based on a talk from the Lubavitcher Rebbe about Chai Elul, Sima and I discuss what it actually means to serve G-d in the deepest way possible, and how Chassidus invites us to bring our full selves to the table. Where do we struggle in bridging the gap between our desire for personal authenticity and our belief in our G-dly souls? How is that process an invitation to go deeper, and an opportunity to experience our Judaism in a more integrated, authentic way? || The sicha discussed in this episode is from Likkutei Sichos, Parshas Ki Savo/Chai Elul, Chelek Yud Tes, Sicha Yud Zayin. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
105
Choosing Life Within Life with Raizy Metzger
Choosing Life Within Life with Raizy Metzger
Sep 10, 2023
46:22
What does it mean to choose our Judaism, not just in one, pivotal moment, but every day of our lives? How did Raizy move away from defining her life choices as a past experience and reimagining them as something she made every day? What does it mean to not only choose life — but to choose the juiciest, most precious life within the life we already have? || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
106
Sukkos: Entering G-d’s Embrace
Sukkos: Entering G-d’s Embrace
Sep 24, 2023
42:32
In honor of the holiday of Sukkos, join a group of women in discussing our experience of some of the key teachings of this special holiday. What does it mean to build a Sukkah of unity? What does it mean to be hugged by G-d when we enter the sukkah? How can we find the joy in the uncertainty of our temporary dwellings? Join us, for an intimate conversation about the deeper meaning of this beloved holiday. || This episode is the last episode of Season 3! Season 4 launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Over the next six weeks, we will be re-airing some of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
107
When It Feels Impossible with Eta Cotlar
When It Feels Impossible with Eta Cotlar
Oct 15, 2023
49:14
Human & Holy is currently on a season break! Season 4 of the podcast launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Today’s episode is a re-airing of one of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. Today's episode is dedicated to the safety and security of our Jewish nation and our Jewish family in Israel. || In this episode, I interviewed Eta Cotlar about her relationship with Bitachon. Eta tragically lost her 13 year old son, Mendel, and she talks about the paradoxes she lives with daily: her deep pain and simultaneous trust in G-d's goodness, her responsibility to make a vessel for positive outcome, and then knowing when to let go of control. Eta shares more than just her personal story; she shares the nuances and complexities of what it means to be a struggling human in a relationship with an infinite G-d. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy in Season 4, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
108
Expanding the Vessel with Dena Schusterman
Expanding the Vessel with Dena Schusterman
Oct 22, 2023
50:05
Human & Holy is currently on a season break! Season 4 of the podcast launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Today’s episode is a re-airing of one of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. || In this episode, I interviewed Dena Shusterman, about how her understanding of Ein Sof, G-d’s limitlessness within the world and her own self, empowers her to make choices beyond her perceived limitations. She talks about expanding her family, stretching herself financially, and sometimes, scaling back in one area in order to expand in another. Listen to this episode for a grounded perspective on what it means to be tapped into an infinite source. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy in Season 4, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
109
The Soul Makes a Promise with Nechama Caplan
The Soul Makes a Promise with Nechama Caplan
Oct 29, 2023
51:59
Human & Holy is currently on a season break! Season 4 of the podcast launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Today’s episode is a re-airing of one of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. || In this episode, I interviewed Nechama Caplan about the promise the soul made before coming down into the body and how that oath inspires her daily life. Nechama speaks about shifting her consciousness away from the self and towards the divine, through intentional habit forming and conscious choices. How can you integrate divine consciousness into the details of your daily life? || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy in Season 4, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
110
Come As You Are with Raizel Deitsch
Come As You Are with Raizel Deitsch
Nov 5, 2023
43:36
Human & Holy is currently on a season break! Season 4 of the podcast launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Today’s episode is a re-airing of one of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. || In this episode, I interviewed Raizel Deitsch about a verse from Mishlei which encourages us to ‘find G-d in all our ways’. Raizel speaks about giving herself permission to find G-d in the human corners of her life, which sparked her transition from an abstract relationship with G-d to one that emanated from her authentic, physical experience. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy in Season 4, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
111
Choosing Joy with Rochel Lazaroff
Choosing Joy with Rochel Lazaroff
Nov 12, 2023
55:23
Human & Holy is currently on a season break! Season 4 of the podcast launches on Sunday, Nov. 26. Today’s episode is a re-airing of one of our most popular episodes from the first season of the podcast. || In this episode, I interviewed my mother, Rochel Lazaroff, about the definition of joy according to Chassidus. What does it mean to use our mind as the root of our emotions? How can we choose to live just a little bit more joyfully in our everyday life? || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy in Season 4, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a patron of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
112
Israel on My Mind: Hindel Swerdlow on Faith Over Fear, Joy as Confidence and the Victory of the Few Over the Mighty
Israel on My Mind: Hindel Swerdlow on Faith Over Fear, Joy as Confidence and the Victory of the Few Over the Mighty
Nov 19, 2023
50:12
How do we shake the terror from our bones and experience trust in G-d when the world is shaking? Where do we find the confidence in victory when everything seems uncertain? In this episode, Hindel Swerdlow, an American woman living in Israel, shares how she has moved through the trauma of the first few weeks after October 7th into the strength and empowerment she is experiencing now. Hindel talks about the process of restoring her soul, the beautiful scenes on the ground and the ideas that are keeping her strong. If Israel’s on your mind, this episode is for you. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a paying subscriber of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
113
A Celebration of Chabad Chassidus
A Celebration of Chabad Chassidus
Nov 26, 2023
38:33
Join the 12th grade class of a Chabad high school for a joyous celebration of Yud Tes Kislev and a discussion on the role of Chassidus in their lives. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a paying subscriber of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
114
Reclaiming Pleasure with Rishi Hein
Reclaiming Pleasure with Rishi Hein
Dec 3, 2023
59:57
Today, we talk about reclaiming our personal sense of desire and the experience of pleasure in our Judaism. What it looks like to move from ‘I have to’ to ‘I *want* to’ and how shutting ourselves down in service of our Judaism ends up sapping it of its strength. Rishi shares her personal journey of victimhood, how she felt like life – and her Judaism – was happening to her, and how getting back in touch with her own personal sense of desire reconnected her to her family and to G-d. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To become a paying subscriber of the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
115
When G-d Sends You on a Detour with Manya Lazaroff
When G-d Sends You on a Detour with Manya Lazaroff
Dec 10, 2023
49:28
What happens when our lives take a detour? When our journey shifts and asks us to become something new? Manya's life -- like many of ours -- is continuously surprising her. Today, we discuss how to embrace the road G-d sends us on, and stay open to the continuous evolution of our lives. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To support the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
116
Letting Go of the Shame with Devorah Marrus
Letting Go of the Shame with Devorah Marrus
Dec 17, 2023
1:03:55
Today’s episode is a practical exploration of the Beinoni of the Tanya – who she is and how she shows up in the world when her humanity weighs on her. What does it actually look like to bring our animal soul in alignment with our G-dly soul? How do we interact with our triggers, and the guilt and shame that often follows our hardest moments? || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To support the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
117
My Journey to Chassidus: Choosing a Life of Song with Faigy Blumstein
My Journey to Chassidus: Choosing a Life of Song with Faigy Blumstein
Dec 24, 2023
1:02:07
Today, Faigy Blumstein shares how her journey to discovering Chassidus kindled a vibrancy in her life that had been lost through the drudgery of daily routines. Faigy talks about the power of song in Jewish life, learning to live her daily life with intention, and discovering an entirely new vocabulary in the pages of the Tanya. Faigy can be found on instagram @faigy.blumstein. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To join our online community, visit humanandholy.com/community. To support the podcast, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
118
Who Am I? with Chana Dubinsky
Who Am I? with Chana Dubinsky
Jan 21, 2024
1:06:22
A conversation about Jewish identity, the experience of being a soul in a body, and the journey to finding balance between different elements of who are. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
119
Q & A with Chana: Costa Rica, the Cost of Systems, and Chassidus as a Call to Live Authentically
Q & A with Chana: Costa Rica, the Cost of Systems, and Chassidus as a Call to Live Authentically
Jan 28, 2024
1:03:29
What are the costs of the systems we build around Chassidus? What does "chassidishkeit" even mean? Has Chana received judgment around her journey, does she experience resentment in her Judaism, and why, to her, is Chassidus the call to live authentically? Join us for a follow up Q & A with Chana Dubinsky, where we address listener questions, talk more about her internal process around her Judaism, and hear from Chana about her life on shlichus in Costa Rica. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
120
In Israel, It’s Still October 7th: A Conversation With Journalist and Activist Bruria Efune
In Israel, It’s Still October 7th: A Conversation With Journalist and Activist Bruria Efune
Feb 4, 2024
59:02
A conversation with Bruria Efune from Be'er Sheva, Israel about October 7th, the days and months that have followed, and the way time has stopped still. The heroes Bruria has met, the fierce helper she has become, and the ways we, too, can step up to help. Sensitive content, not suitable for young children. || Link to buy helmets for soldiers with PTSD: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/usd/donation-targets/121939 Link to join Bruria's WhatsApp group for updates: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ew0lrRWmmR2LVC68YY3mKp Link to donate to Chabad of Eilat: https://causematch.com/eilat/ || To contact us or sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, email us at [email protected].
121
Finding Your Place in Torah
Finding Your Place in Torah
Feb 11, 2024
23:36
A solo episode about finding your own place in Torah. Inspired by the Alter Rebbe's introduction to the Tanya. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
122
Co-creating With G-d, With Esty Raskin
Co-creating With G-d, With Esty Raskin
Feb 18, 2024
1:16:54
A conversation with Esty Raskin about co-creating our inner and outer realities with G-d. || For more information about Esty's retreat, visit estyraskin.com. You can also find her on instagram @estyraskin. || To submit a question for the live Q & A, email us at [email protected]. To sponsor an episode of the podcast, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To become a monthly paid subscriber, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
123
Facing Our Insecurities, Finding a Compassionate Judaism, Why We Gossip, Being Honest With Ourselves and More | Q & A With Esty
Facing Our Insecurities, Finding a Compassionate Judaism, Why We Gossip, Being Honest With Ourselves and More | Q & A With Esty
Feb 25, 2024
49:57
You asked, Esty answered. This episode is a recording of a live Q & A with Esty Raskin, where we answered community members' questions about everything from fearing our older siblings' judgments when we share, to who Esty's Torah teachers are, how her relationship with G-d has evolved, the hardest thing about shifting into a state of ownership and more. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
124
Women of the War With Shifra Soloveichik
Women of the War With Shifra Soloveichik
Mar 3, 2024
45:36
An episode on Jewish, feminine strength, with the founder of Women of Valor | Untold Stories of the Women of Israel. A conversation that will shift you away from the endless pain and towards the empowerment and resilience of Jewish women. You can find the project on instagram @valorstories, and you can find Shifra's personal page @shifroosh. Link to the most recent documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC08QbsRluM&t=229s || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
125
Permission to Engage With Your Yiddishkeit
Permission to Engage With Your Yiddishkeit
Mar 10, 2024
14:19
A solo episode on all the ways we withdraw from our Judaism because we have internalized a self perception that tells us we are not religious enough, chassidish enough, consistent enough, or authentic enough to be let past the gate. Inspired by Chapter One of the Tanya. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
126
Figuring Out Your Soul’s Purpose, Moving Across the World, and Navigating Anxiety with Mushka Lisker
Figuring Out Your Soul’s Purpose, Moving Across the World, and Navigating Anxiety with Mushka Lisker
Mar 17, 2024
1:04:41
A candid conversation about how to figure out where your soul is needed to fulfill its purpose, getting more specific about our gifts so we can deepen our contributions to the world, the teachings from the Lubavitcher Rebbe that have helped Mushka navigate her anxiety and more. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
127
The Jewish People Are One Family With Yaffy Newman
The Jewish People Are One Family With Yaffy Newman
Mar 24, 2024
56:32
A conversation with Yaffy Newman, an American-Israeli woman whose husband is fighting on the front lines of the current war, on her experiences on October 7th and beyond, the ways we can show up to help, and the ideas that are keeping her strong. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
128
The Joy of Humility with Chayale Hershcovich
The Joy of Humility with Chayale Hershcovich
Mar 31, 2024
53:32
A conversation about the relationship between joy and humility in our lives, and the way an understanding of G-d's presence in our lives can bring us to true joy. || To sponsor an episode of Human & Holy, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at [email protected]. To become a monthly supporter, visit patreon.com/humanandholy.
129
The Underrated Gift of a Farbrengen
The Underrated Gift of a Farbrengen
Apr 7, 2024
15:04
Next week, we're dropping a video episode (for the first time!) on Youtube and Spotify that I can only describe as a farbrengen reimagined. In anticipation, I shared some thoughts about the underrated benefits of getting together with other women to give voice to our souls.
130
Giving Voice to Freedom: An Evening to Explore the Meaning of the Seder in Our Lives
Giving Voice to Freedom: An Evening to Explore the Meaning of the Seder in Our Lives
Apr 14, 2024
41:25
Join us for an evening with five women from different backgrounds, gathering to approach the holiday of freedom with a sense of wonder and exploration. We discuss the different voices that we reckon with in our Judaism, our experiences around sensitive mitzvos that are part of our daily lives, talk about the steps of the Seder, play a game, eat, and share poetry. To download free conversation cards for your Seder based on each of the Seder steps, visit humanandholy.com/seder-prompts. Timestamps: 0:15-2:43 Exploring the Seder With A Sense of Wonder 2:44-5:15 Introducing Our Guests 5:16-9:11 The Four Sons as Four Voices Within 9:12-10:29 Cookie Distribution & Rules of the Game 10:30-13:27 The Details of Shabbos 13:28-17:23 Finding Our Tznius Without the Noise of Other People’s Perceptions 17:24-20:17 Struggles With Mikvah 20:18-25:37 Spirituality In Halacha 25:38-26:59 Game Winners & Prize 27:00-28:04 Perspective in Pause 28:05-29:00 Nurturing Curiosity In Our Judaism 29:01-30:09 Learning How to Rest 30:10-31:37 Growth From Brokenness 31:38-32:58 Seeing G-d Everywhere 32:59-36:08 Rapid Fire Seder Prompts 36:09-37:46 Spoken Word Poem 37:47-41:25 Ball Game & Reflections Stay in touch with us! Instagram: @humanandholy Email: [email protected] Website: humanandholy.org The song behind the Seder poem is called 'The Seder Song' by Zusha. You can find more of their music here: @zusha
131
I’ve Made the Same Resolutions for Ten Years with Esther Shemtov
I’ve Made the Same Resolutions for Ten Years with Esther Shemtov
May 5, 2024
53:55
What are the side alleys of growth that go unnoticed while we seemingly return to the same struggles, over and over again? What are the spiritual benefits of the more chaotic elements of our lives? And how can we navigate our own spiritual glass ceilings, to allow us to leap beyond our self perception and grow to our fullest potential? Sources mentioned in this episode: Alter Rebbe's Discourse: Torah Ohr, 'Shir Hamaalos' Parsha Vayeshev Lubavitcher Rebbe's Talk: Parshas Miketz תשׁי"ג, Farbrengen of the 5th night of Chanukah The siddur mentioned in this episode will be available for purchase on humanandholy.com in the coming weeks. To find out when the siddurim are live, sign up to our newsletter here: humanandholy.com/newsletter We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected]. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. To get in touch with Esther Shemtov, visit her website www.onyourownpodcast.com or email her at [email protected].
132
Boundaries, Parenthood, and the Hidden Holiness in Our Creative Outlets with Rivka Marga Gestetner
Boundaries, Parenthood, and the Hidden Holiness in Our Creative Outlets with Rivka Marga Gestetner
May 12, 2024
57:59
A full, organic farbrengen with Rivka Marga Gestetner. We covered faith in the Redemption, allowing our children to fly even when our instinct is to pull them in, what the walls of the Mishkan have to teach us about boundaries, the nuance around self care, and why our creative outlets are holy. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected]. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy.
133
The Limits of Psychotherapy With Fraida Kaplan
The Limits of Psychotherapy With Fraida Kaplan
May 19, 2024
1:04:43
A conversation with a practicing marriage and family therapist about the limits of therapeutic language. Fraida establishes the enormous gifts of therapy in giving people the ability to come face to face with their humanity and inner healing, and suggests that as Jews, we don't have to stop there. We can weave the reality of our divine souls and infinite potential into the story of our vulnerability and humanity. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy.
134
I Fell Apart Into the Torah with Chani Mochkin
I Fell Apart Into the Torah with Chani Mochkin
May 26, 2024
54:48
When nothing is large enough to hold the enormity of your emotions, where do you go? This episode is Chani's story of finding solace in the weekly Parsha, how the emotional wisdom of the Torah became her mirror and comfort as she grieved the loss of her older sister, Raizel. A moving reflection on what it means to bring the full emotional range of our inner experiences to our study of the Torah. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
135
What Do You Really Want? With Yitty Gniwisch
What Do You Really Want? With Yitty Gniwisch
Jun 2, 2024
45:06
A conversation about the things we reach for when we are craving aliveness, and how to get in touch with what we *really* want, so we can choose the energy sources that make us feel most alive. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
136
Angels Could Never
Angels Could Never
Jun 9, 2024
17:04
A solo episode about the court case between Moshe and the angels and what it teaches us about receiving the Torah within our own selves. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch.To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy.You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
137
Where Is Your Love? Our Journey Through Infertility with Adelle Bryski
Where Is Your Love? Our Journey Through Infertility with Adelle Bryski
Jun 16, 2024
44:57
Adelle's personal journey through infertility over the last eight years, the impact it has had on her relationship with Hashem, and how she has turned the pain of her experience into something that supports others on a similar journey. You can get in touch with Adelle via her website, oneworldawareness.org and her instagram account @oneworld.awareness. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop.We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch.To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy.You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
138
There Is Something Beyond This World with Racquel Esses
There Is Something Beyond This World with Racquel Esses
Jun 23, 2024
52:52
A raw, vulnerable conversation about being brought to the brink of the divide between life and death over and over, and what it has taught Racquel about Hashem's compassion, the strength of our own souls, and the pathway forward to her most vibrant, divine life. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
139
Is It Complacency or Is It Acceptance? With Rivky Chazanow
Is It Complacency or Is It Acceptance? With Rivky Chazanow
Jun 30, 2024
58:56
A conversation about the difference between spiritual complacency and acceptance, and how to know when we are shutting ourselves down around our Judaism because we don't want to face our grief or fear and when we are truly learning to accept the circumstances of our lives. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
140
The Rebbe's Impact on My Life
The Rebbe's Impact on My Life
Jul 7, 2024
45:06
In honor of Gimmel Tammuz, which is the anniversary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's passing, I share the impact that the Rebbe has had on my life and how I have been molded by his teachings. This episode was hosted by Raizel Schusterman from A Positive Podcast, which can be found on all podcast streaming platforms. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
141
A Text Message Could Save a Life with Hadassah Zirkind
A Text Message Could Save a Life with Hadassah Zirkind
Jul 14, 2024
1:04:12
When you are struggling with suicide and self harm, where can you turn for support? This episode chronicles one woman's journey through the unthinkable, the resources she has created for others who are struggling, tools to support the ones we love, and honest reflections on the complicated relationship with Hashem that was born as a result of her struggles. To find more of Hadassah, check out www.preventfrumsuicide.org, the online home for her organization, A Drop of Light. For additional support, check out www.thelongshortroad.com, an organization that saves lives through suicide prevention and mental health education. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
142
Opening Myself up to Life with Rachey Simons
Opening Myself up to Life with Rachey Simons
Jul 21, 2024
54:41
A conversation about the power of a woman’s intuition, the decision to have another child after many years, and the way a radical openness to life can realign us with our soul’s voice. This episode was sponsored by Rosie Liberow Interiors, design that harmonizes your soul with your space. Find out more at @rosieliberowinteriors on instagram. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on instagram @humanandholy
143
G-d's Timeline with Rochelle Fellig-Berzak
G-d's Timeline with Rochelle Fellig-Berzak
Jul 28, 2024
55:58
A conversation about trusting G-d's timeline and letting our seasons of waiting expand us into becoming the type of person that can receive the fullness of life's blessings. A moving reflection on Rochelle's 18 year season of dating and the growth that it sparked in her life and relationship with G-d. The women's siddur is back in stock and available for purchase on humanandholy.com/shop. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
144
Moshiach Consciousness with Nechama Schusterman
Moshiach Consciousness with Nechama Schusterman
Aug 4, 2024
1:01:08
In honor of the nine days, Nechama Schusterman, a woman who has spent the last few years studying talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe about Moshiach, explores our role in preparing the world for Moshiach and refining ourselves and homes to make a vessel for a world of revealed G-dliness. Is Moshiach escapism or is it a reality that we set the stage for? How do we channel the pain of our current experience into a strong boundary against evil? What are some tangible ways that we can face the areas in our lives where Hashem is still not revealed? You can get in touch with Nechama at [email protected] and listen to her podcast, A Path Forward, here: https://open.spotify.com/show/47LRqDkHbkExn8MVxUV7dI?si=4c04c94f00b24c34 We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
145
What Is My Anchor? with Musia Baumgarten
What Is My Anchor? with Musia Baumgarten
Aug 11, 2024
51:39
A conversation about shifting from seeing G-d as a tool, but as our anchor in life, the struggle to access the wisdom of Torah when we are experiencing personal blockages or mental health struggles, knowing when to say 'enough' in terms of our emotional wellbeing...and so much more. You can contact Musia at [email protected]. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
146
Why I’m No Longer Waiting for Moshiach
Why I’m No Longer Waiting for Moshiach
Aug 18, 2024
27:29
A solo episode about Moshiach and why I can't stop thinking about Nachshon stepping into the sea. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
147
Learning How to Love with Menucha Schochet
Learning How to Love with Menucha Schochet
Aug 25, 2024
1:08:03
A conversation about learning how to love other people, the medicine for judgment, and knowing when to reflect the flaws we see in others as a catalyst for our own introspection and growth. Based on Chapter 30 of Tanya. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
148
I Found Judaism at Fifteen with Ariella Goldman
I Found Judaism at Fifteen with Ariella Goldman
Sep 1, 2024
36:54
The unlikely story of a woman who found Judaism as a teenager, married young, and became a Chabad Rebbetzin in her own hometown. What propelled her to choose her Judaism at such a young age? And what it is it like, fifteen years later, to be living a life so different than the one she was raised with? To get in touch with Ariella, you can email her at [email protected]. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
149
It Could Be So Much Better with Tzivie Greenberg
It Could Be So Much Better with Tzivie Greenberg
Sep 8, 2024
1:19:53
Is inner healing truly a Jewish value? How do you know when to stop? What is the relationship between emotional wellness and spiritual growth? How do we dissolve the blockages to our soul’s innate voice? Explore these questions and more in this conversation about Teshuvah, personal healing, spiritual growth, and returning to our divine soul’s voice. Tzivie Greenberg is a facilitator of emotional healing for soul-led living. She is Internal Family Systems Trained, IFSCA Certified. You can contact her at [email protected] for a one time consultation or weekly sessions. You can also find more of her work on instagram @TzivieG. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
150
The Spiritual Side of Money with Sarah Barash
The Spiritual Side of Money with Sarah Barash
Sep 15, 2024
1:00:31
What would it look like to have a spiritual relationship with financial abundance? How can we move out of control and into an open trust in G-d's ability to provide everything that we need? This episode is a conversation with Sarah Barash about experiencing the spiritual depth of money and dissolving some of the blockages we have to receiving the resources we so desire and need. Sarah can be reached at [email protected]. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
151
Teshuvah: Self-Construction or Self-Acceptance?
Teshuvah: Self-Construction or Self-Acceptance?
Sep 22, 2024
19:34
Is Teshuvah a return to an untouched state of purity, or an acceptance of the past mistakes and experiences that have led us to where we are today? A deeply moving teaching from Rav Tzadok of Lublin about the conversation between growth and self-acceptance in the journey of Teshuvah, and on how the darker parts of our journey are the most generative parts, too. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. Sources mentioned in this episode: Zohar, Parshas Vayetze Tzidkas Hatzaddik by Reb Tzadok Hakohen Milublin, Kuf Samach Daled and Mem We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
152
A Woman's Candle-Lighting Welcomes the New Year with Nechama Welton
A Woman's Candle-Lighting Welcomes the New Year with Nechama Welton
Sep 29, 2024
57:41
A conversation about the connection between Rosh Hashana and centrality of the home within Judaism, the role that Jewish women's candle-lighting plays in welcoming a new year, the rising of a feminine energy within Judaism, the challenges of being wrapped up in domestic tasks or the role of motherhood when you want to be absorbed in the deeper meaning of the day, and more. Based on a talk from the Lubavitcher Rebbe given to a women's only audience. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. Sources mentioned in this episode: Talk from the Lubavitcher Rebbe given on 27 Elul, 5744. Linked here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13WGzdFn9jly1dSFuYDlcaGQUuiBHbdS0/view?pli=1 Reach out to Nechama at [email protected]. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
153
Q & A with Tzivie: Is Therapeutic Language Authentic to the Tanya?, Religious Guilt, Plant Medicine, and Healing the Root of our Struggles
Q & A with Tzivie: Is Therapeutic Language Authentic to the Tanya?, Religious Guilt, Plant Medicine, and Healing the Root of our Struggles
Oct 6, 2024
1:58:27
A recording of a live, follow up conversation with Tzivie Greenberg, where we discussed podcast listeners' questions, as well as questions that came in from the audience as we spoke. Some questions that were asked: Is therapeutic language authentic to the Tanya? What are some practical ways to live in a way that emanates from the light of our souls? How can we find a healthy balance between being and doing when doing inner work, and how can we differentiate between recognizing our genuine capacity versus a fear of stepping into our soul's mission? Other topics that were discussed: religious guilt, plant medicine, and healing the root of our struggles. This episode is a follow up conversation to the episode titled 'It Could Be So Much Better'. This episode is sponsored by Zelda Hair, a wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
154
The Sukkah's Embrace with Zisi Zirkind
The Sukkah's Embrace with Zisi Zirkind
Oct 13, 2024
1:06:40
A conversation about the unity of G-d that we experience over Sukkos, and how can we can draw that all-encompassing embrace into the fragmented pieces of our lives. Source mentioned in this episode: Chassidic discourse of the Lubavitcher Rebbe from Motzei Simchas Torah, 5738. This episode is sponsored in honor of Lauren Nagel. Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy.
155
When a Woman Doesn't Want to Speak to a Rabbi with Esther Piekarski
When a Woman Doesn't Want to Speak to a Rabbi with Esther Piekarski
Oct 27, 2024
1:19:14
A conversation with Esther Piekarski about a new woman to woman helpline created by Mikvah.org, the differentiation between a Rav and a woman's scholarship, Yoatzot Halacha, women's roles in shul, and the power of receiving support from another woman for sensitive mitzvos. Interview begins at 8:53. You can reach the helpline by calling 833-4MIKVAH | 833-464-5824 and find more information at mikvah.org. You can reach Esther at [email protected]. This episode is sponsored in honor of Lauren Nagel. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
156
The Depth of Simplicity with Chana Traxler
The Depth of Simplicity with Chana Traxler
Nov 3, 2024
1:01:11
A conversation with Chana Traxler about experiencing flow within our Judaism, leaning into abstract spiritual experiences, and choosing simplicity as the deepest experience of G-d. This episode is sponsored in honor of Lauren Nagel. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
157
Dialogue with the Divine with Shira Lankin Sheps
Dialogue with the Divine with Shira Lankin Sheps
Nov 10, 2024
56:03
A conversation about the rich, Jewish tradition of women's voices expressed through informal prayer, how to unlock that ability within ourselves, and personal reflections from her new book, “Az Nashir - We Will Sing Again: Women’s Prayers for Our Time of Need,” which is an anthology of personal prayers written by Jewish women in Israel. Purchase Az Nashir here: bit.ly/48L0zFT Shira Lankin Sheps is a writer, editor, workshop facilitator, and clinically-trained therapist. She founded and published The Layers Project Magazine, authored "LAYERS: Personal Narratives of Struggle, Resilience & Growth of Jewish Women", and is the Executive Director and Founder of Shvili Center. Shira can be reached at [email protected]. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
158
Sacrifice or Desire? Rethinking the Foundation of Faith with Chana Silberstein
Sacrifice or Desire? Rethinking the Foundation of Faith with Chana Silberstein
Nov 17, 2024
1:04:02
An exploration of Jewish sacrifice with Chana Silberstein, through the lens of the Akedah. How can we mature in our faith, so that we make choices rooted in a deep safety with G-d? What is the ideal motivator of our lives, a sense of sacrifice or desire? And how do we process the inevitable pitfalls of our carefully chosen paths? Chana Silberstein came to Ithaca in 1984 with her husband to establish a Chabad house for Jewish students and community members. She serves in the role of Education Director at Chabad of Cornell. Chana holds a PhD in Psychology from Cornell University and is certified in Clinical Pastoral Education. When Chana is not busy running the Chabad house, she consults on educational projects for Jewish institutions. You can contact Chana at [email protected]. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
159
Rivky Kaplan: Learning How to Be, the Diminishment of the Moon, and the Seasons of Womanhood
Rivky Kaplan: Learning How to Be, the Diminishment of the Moon, and the Seasons of Womanhood
Dec 1, 2024
1:08:27
A conversation about moving away from our obsession with productivity to embrace the value of simply being. Through a teaching about the diminishment of the moon, Rivky challenges us to consider that sometimes, our mere presence is enough. We are human beings, not doings. Some days, G-d asks us, simply, to be. Human & Holy is currently on a season break. Season 5 airs on Sunday, Dec. 15. This episode is a rerun from Dec. 2021. Conversation begins at 6:38. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
160
A Flicker of Faith with Malki Rodal
A Flicker of Faith with Malki Rodal
Dec 8, 2024
1:09:11
When we are crushed, what do we do the broken pieces? And when our faith wavers, can we lean on the tiny flickers of faith? This episode chronicles the inner process that followed the crushing losses of Malki's babies and the way she opened up her heart to transform her pain into a source of light. TW: Malki speaks about pregnancy loss and death in this episode. Human & Holy is currently on a season break. Season 5 airs on Sunday, Dec. 15. This episode is a rerun from April 2023. Conversation begins at 6:38. Human & Holy Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. We love hearing your feedback! Email us at [email protected] to get in touch. To sponsor an episode, reach out to us via email or visit www.humanandholy.com/sponsor. Become a monthly supporter of the podcast on www.patreon.com/humanandholy. You can find us on instagram @humanandholy and on Youtube, as Human & Holy.
161
Finding My Own Path Within Judaism with Gitty Rappoport
Finding My Own Path Within Judaism with Gitty Rappoport
Dec 15, 2024
1:15:18
A conversation with Gitty Rappoport about finding a personal sense of identity within her Judaism, how she navigated her religious questions growing up in Boro Park, and how Chassidic wisdom helped her develop a deep sense of connection to her Judaism. Episode sponsored in honor of the yartzeit of Chana Bracha bas Isser. May her neshama have the highest aliyah. Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our Youtube channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
162
When We Lose the Hostages We Prayed For, Where Do Our Prayers Go? | Nechama Dina Hendel
When We Lose the Hostages We Prayed For, Where Do Our Prayers Go? | Nechama Dina Hendel
Dec 22, 2024
1:12:33
Nechama Dina Hendel from Baka, Jerusalem speaks about her community work in Israel during the war, the interconnectedness of the Jewish people from all over the world, her relationship with Rachel Goldberg-Polin and how to process the crushing losses of people we spent months praying for. Video episode available on Youtube. Contact Nechama Dina here: [email protected] Link to donate to Chabad of Baka: https://www.chabadofbaka.com/templates/articlecco cdo/aid/4897078/jewish/Donate-form-US-Dollars.htm Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our Youtube channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
163
Live In a State of Flow | Nechama Schusterman
Live In a State of Flow | Nechama Schusterman
Jan 5, 2025
1:35:56
A conversation with Nechama Schusterman about how to live with an internal Moshiach consciousness, based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. This episode is our second episode with Nechama, where we took listener questions, and dove deeper into the practical experience of integrating G-d into our daily lives. Video episode with Nechama is available on Youtube. Listen to our first episode with Nechama here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2G1xzVTiIrtxV9Kl2txAOV?si=hl3xK3GISYKaPwWBMLDVDw Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our Youtube channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Find more of Nechama's work on her podcast, A Path Forward. Spotify link here: https://open.spotify.com/show/47LRqDkHbkExn8MVxUV7dI?si=aa02cf984efe4cd9. Timestamps: 0:00 Host's Introduction 00:01:54 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 00:02:37 Toveedo Sponsorship 00:03:49 Introducing Nechama 00:05:00 What is Moshiach Consciousness? 00:11:00 Inside Out Approach to Giving 00:13:00 Knowing When to Show Up 00:17:00 Living in a State of Flow 00:18:30 Giving When Beyond Capacity 00:22:00 The Masculine Experience of Moshiach Consciousness 00:26:00 When Women Begin to Thrive, Do Men Begin to Suffer? 00:30:00 Is the Jewish Woman a Receiver or a Leader?00:33:00 Finding the Third Way in Our Daily Choices 00:36:45 When Our Desires Are Not Practical 00:38:45 Can Women Have It All With Ease? 00:48:00 Transforming Ourselves Internally Vs. Transforming the World 00:58:20 When Halacha Is a Painful Space for You 1:02:45 Is Inner Healing G-dly or Human? 1:06:00 Getting in Touch With Your Inner GPS 1:13:00 The Different Stages of Moshiach 1:16:15 The Light Can Be Found Within the Darkness 1:18:00 Becoming Grounded and Present Within Our Own Selves 1:20:00 How Can I Believe in an Internal Redemption When My External Circumstances Bring Me So Much Pain? 1:24:00 Should We See Painful World Events as a Personal Wake Up Call? 1:31:00 Cultivating Healthy Boundaries Around Other People’s Pain 1:33:00 Sharing With Calm
164
I Am a Jew | Women's Open Mic Night
I Am a Jew | Women's Open Mic Night
Jan 12, 2025
51:12
Recording of a Human & Holy Open Mic night hosted in LA, with the theme I Am a Jew. Women shared their writings, original music, poetry and more. Video episode available on Youtube. This evening was sponsored by SOLIKA, a modest women's clothing brand based in LA. Find their clothing at solika.com This evening was sponsored anonymously in honor of the refuah sheleima of Penina Sara bas Gittel Mindel. Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 1:00 Opening Poem by Tonia Chazanow 2:00 Opening Words 5:12 “We Are Here“ by Menucha Belkin 6:25 “Salt" by Menucha Belkin 7:05 “G-d’s Classroom” by Hadassah Shemtov 9:00 "Waiting" by Hadassah Shemtov 10:44 “Inner Light” by Rivkala Gottleib 15:18 “Be Good to Me” original song by Zisi Zirkind 18:19 “Let Go and Let G-d” by Sara Mayberg 22:00 “Roller Coaster” by Adele Bryski 26:35 “One of the Hardest Things” by Shoshana Wolf 30:34 “V’Zakeini“ sung by Hindi Kalmenson & Elana Gilbert 34:52 “One Soul, One Heart” by Devora Pinson 39:14 “Because I Am a Jew” by Chani Zavdi 42:15 “Tzama Lecha Nafshi” sung by Boonya Cadaner 45:08 Thank You Rosie Gurevitch & Shaina Schmukler 46:10 “What Is a Jew?” by Tonia Chazanow
165
G-d Was My Lifeline | Shternie Rosenfeld
G-d Was My Lifeline | Shternie Rosenfeld
Jan 19, 2025
1:08:32
Episode is sponsored in honor of Uziel ben Moshe Yakov, whose yartzeit is Yud Tes Teves. May his neshama have an aliyah. A conversation with Shternie Rosenfeld -- who is a shucha, Torah teacher, and single mother -- about her transformative journey through divorce within the Orthodox community. Shternie talks about her darkest moments and how she found light through an unwavering relationship with G-d. We also explore her unique role as a shlucha running a Chabad house alone and the daily choice to see our circumstances with gratitude and faith. Video episode is available on Youtube. Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on Instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:00 Host's Introduction 01:33 Toveedo Sponsorship 02:23 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 03:11 Introducing Shternie Rosenfeld 04:26 Shternie's Life and Community Work 06:55 The Dark Period: Divorce and Its Aftermath 12:07 My Relationship With Hashem Saved Me 17:12 Seeing People's Kindness as G-d's Love 21:25 Choosing Not to Wallow in the Pain 23:55 We Are Worthy, But Not Owed 26:38 Gratitude for Small Gifts 29:00 Modeh Ani 33:26 The Struggles Brought Me Here 35:42 Having a Relationship With My Ex 40:33 If You Roll In the Mud, You Get Dirty 46:42 Getting Comfortable With Inner Peace 51:30 Being G-d's Banker 54:56 The Highs and Lows Make Life Rich 01:01:00 Running a Chabad House on My Own 01:07:42 Host's Outro
166
Spiritual Chutzpah | Chaya Lester
Spiritual Chutzpah | Chaya Lester
Jan 26, 2025
53:35
A conversation with Chaya Lester, a psychotherapist, author, speaker, and poet, about the significance of internal, spiritual work during a time of collective upheaval, how we can become more attuned to divine messages through our daily interactions and dreams, and how we are all being invited to practice spiritual chutzpah in order to reveal the divine reality of the world. Video episode is available on Youtube. Episode is sponsored in honor of Yosef Dovid ben Yehoshua's birthday, by his parents, Josh & Goldie Grinberg. You can find out more about Chaya Lester, as well as links to purchase her work, here: www.chayalester.com Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on Instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:00 Host’s Introduction 01:55 Dedication to Yosef Dovid ben Yehoshua 2:15 Toveedo Sponsorship 3:16 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 03:36 Conversation with Chaya Lester Begins 08:07 Chaya's Spiritual Journey 13:14 The Torah is Our Story 16:53 Developing Spiritual Sensitivity 18:40 Embracing Spiritual Chutzpah 22:00 Who Am I in the Face of Our Jewish History? 25:19 The Impact of Spiritual Work on Current Events 26:12 Paying Attention to Divine Messages 27:42 Messianic Era: Dystopian or Utopian? 28:34 Transforming Destruction into Expression 29:17 The Journey from Exile to Redemption 31:25 The Higher Consciousness Within Pain 32:32 Three Ways to Integrate Divine Consciousness 34:24 Personal Work Reflects Collective Work 38:04 Dreams as a Source of Guidance 40:53 Chaya’s Dream 49:15 Poem 52:50 Host’s Outro
167
Can Your Soul Override Who You Are? | Sara Blau
Can Your Soul Override Who You Are? | Sara Blau
Feb 2, 2025
1:28:15
A conversation about the chassidic work of V'atah Tetzaveh. This conversation explores the generational shift from serving G-d through self sacrifice to a generation that is asked to serve G-d through abundance and an integration of our individual selves, as well as the role of a Tzaddik in helping us reveal the light of our souls. Contact Sara Blau and learn more about her work at www.sarablau.com. Some terms to know: Maamer | a divinely inspired teaching shared by a chassidic rebbe to his disciples Rebbe | a spiritual leader Sechel | intellect Middos | character traits Mesiras Nefesh | self sacrifice Matan Torah | receiving the Torah at Mt. Sinai Purim Katan Maamer | a Chassidic teaching shared by the Lubavitcher Rebbe before Purim Katan Kriyas Yam Suf | splitting of the sea Gzeira | decree Yehudim | Jews Sicha | talk given by a rebbe Rebbe Rashab | the fifth Chabad Rebbe Koach | strength Ahavas Hashem | love of G-d Ahavas Haolam | love of the Creator based on a love of the Creator's world Ohel | Lubavitcher Rebbe's resting place Study the original text that this conversation is based on here: https://www.chabad.org/therebbe/article cdo/aid/145191/jewish/Maamar-Veatah-Tetzaveh.htm Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on Instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit patreon.com/humanandholy or humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:00 Host's Introduction 00:01:30 Toveedo Sponsorship 00:02:28 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 00:03:17 Conversation Begins 00:10:30 Self Sacrifice Vs. A Conscious Relationship With Your Essence 00:14:18 Spiritual Adrenaline Doesn't Always Last 00:15:30 Can You Become Something You're Not? 00:20:24 A Generation Seeking Authenticity 00:27:00 Serving G-d For External Reasons 00:31:11 Why You Don't Have to be in Survival Mode 00:32:00 Creating a Lasting Judaism 00:34:12 I Want to Connect to G-d 00:37:25 A Tzaddik Empowers Us to Lead Our Own Selves 00:43:00 A Collective Desire for Spirituality 00:45:00 When Our Judaism Becomes Who We Are As People 00:47:35 Navigating The Uncomfortable Parts of our Jewish Practice 00:56:12 Is It Selfish or Is It Selfless? 01:01:44 Utilizing Our Unique Gifts When It Feels Indulgent 01:04:00 When Our Souls Are Expressed We Love People for Who They Are 01:07:39 What Does It Mean to Love G-d? 01:12:00 Do We Have a Leader? 01:16:30 Knowing Where to Dig Within Ourselves 01:17:30 What is the Role of the Rebbe After His Passing? 01:19:30 An Eye Towards the Future 01:22:00 What Is the Call of the Hour? 01:27:00 Host's Outro
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Where Do Women Belong? | Laurie Novick
Where Do Women Belong? | Laurie Novick
Feb 9, 2025
1:37:57
A thorough conversation about women’s roles, the beauty and significance of Jewish law, and the lived experience of women’s Judaism. This episode is dedicated by Schwartzie’s daughters in honor of the 8th yartzeit of their father, Shlomo Yitzchak Ben Moshe, aka Schwartzie. Do a mitzvah in his honor. Today’s episode explores questions like: What is the ideal definition of a Jewish woman’s role within Judaism? Do we have an impossible vision of what a Jewish woman is? Should we meet women's desires for more spiritual engagement with suspicion? Do women belong in shul? What does it mean for the Jewish woman to be the heart of the home? Has Laurie ever struggled with Jewish womanhood? What is the halachic significance of women’s mitzvot? Laurie Novick is the Director and Head Writer of Deracheha, a comprehensive resource for women and mitzvot. She has worked as a Yoetzet Halacha since Fall 5763 and teaches at Migdal Oz. Laurie is also a Yoetzet Halacha Fertility Counsellor, a member of a pilot cohort of Yoatzot Halacha who have received advanced training in fertility issues and Halacha and taught for many years at Nishmat. She has degrees in Bible, Jewish Education, and Talmud and has also done graduate work in Counseling. Contact Laurie here: [email protected] Link to Deracheha here: deracheha.org Link to the piece that includes discussion of Rebbitzen Bayla Falkhttps://www.deracheha.org/concepts-introduction/ Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on Instagram @zeldahair. Email us at [email protected] 00:00 Introduction 00:00:30 Toveedo Sponsorship 00:01:00 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 00:01:28 Host’s Introduction 00:03:00 Welcome Laurie Novick 00:05:25 Developing a Personal Interest In Women and Halacha 00:07:30 Every Jewish Woman Deserves Access to Sources On This Topic 00:10:00 Does Exploration of this Topic Have to be Motivated by Discontent? 00:12:24 All Topics of Torah Are Interconnected 00:13:00 We Used to Learn About Jewish Womanhood From Our Mothers 00:17:00 The Lived Experience of Judaism Begins in the Home 00:19:20 Deepening Our Experience of Judaism Through Study 00:20:00 How Would You Define a Woman’s Role? 00:23:40 Do We Have an Impossible Vision of what a Jewish Woman is? 00:28:00 Honing in On Your Personal Values 00:29:45 Is The Woman the Heart of the Home? 00:34:38 Honing in On What Each Holiday Means to You 00:36:48 When Your Spiritual Yearnings as a Woman Are Met With Suspicion 00:40:00 Trusting Your Desire To Do Mitzvos 00:42:38 Eating In The Sukkah as a Woman 00:43:30 How to Channel Your Desire To Be More Engaged 00:46:00 The Halachic Significance of Women’s Mitzvos 00:47:27 This Is Not a Problem, It Is An Opportunity 00:47:55 Women’s Relationship to Shul & Torah Reading 00:51:00 There Are Many Women Within Each of Us 00:52:50 Shutting Down Our Channels of Connection 00:54:15 Is This for the Sake of Heaven? 01:01:16 What Is Halacha? 1:05:29 Jewish Law is Responsive to Life’s Nuances 1:07:30 Why Learning the Backstory to Halacha is Important 1:10:40 The Variety of Halachic Opinions 1:12:36 The Lived Experience of Jewish Law 1:17:00 The Significance of Learning Halacha From a Woman’s Perspective 1:20:23 Women’s Halachic Obligations Reveal the Fundamental Definition of Mitzvos 1:22:00 Women Should Not Be a Footnote 1:25:22 Has Laurie Ever Struggled with What It Means to be a Jewish Woman? 1:27:50 Questions Are a Healthy Part of Our Spiritual Paths 1:28:22 Making Simchas Torah More Woman Friendly 1:31:00 What Has Torah Study Given Laurie As a Person? 1:31:31 Jewish Role Models 1:33:20 What Does It Mean to be a Jewish Woman?
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Live In a Way That Speaks for Itself | Dena Schusterman
Live In a Way That Speaks for Itself | Dena Schusterman
Feb 23, 2025
1:18:31
A conversation about embracing the many ways of seeing the Torah while remaining rooted in our values, the difference between judgment and discernment, impacting people without preaching, and how to approach the decision to have another baby. Dena Schusterman is a founder of Chabad Intown in Atlanta, a Jewish educator and a founding director of both the Intown Jewish Preschool and Hebrew School. Dena writes about parenting and applied Torah and Chassidic thought, her articles have appeared on Kveller, Chabad.org, Groknation, Ami magazine and the Atlanta Jewish Times. Dena is currently working on writing her first book. She and her husband Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman are native Californians and have been living in Atlanta for 20 years. They have 8 children. You can contact Dena at [email protected] and on instagram @denads. Link to Dena's first episode with Human & Holy: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5rZZHw2SdusrTq6xiz1FHC?si=4b9607a0f2d74ac5 Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. ZELDA HAIR: A wig company that champions the holistic process of hair covering for Jewish women. Shop Zelda Hair at zeldahairshop.com and discover the heart behind the brand on Instagram @zeldahair. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 0:00:23 Toveedo Sponsorship 0:00:45 Zelda Hair Sponsorship 0:01:15 Host’s Introduction 0:02:48 Welcome Dena Schusterman 0:06:36 Why I’m Publishing a Memoir 0:10:37 You Can’t Tell People How to Think 0:13:00 Don’t Give People Answers to Questions They Never Asked 0:16:00 People Will Misunderstand You 0:17:08 Standing in Front of the Rebbe as a Child 0:19:34 Why Do We Feel the Need to Source Everything? 0:20:39 Chiddushei Torah: Writing Down Our Thoughts on Torah 0:22:58 Humility When We Interpret the Torah 0:23:43 Trusting Our Barometers for Truth 0:24:22 Knowing When Other People’s Ideas Are Not For You 0:25:41 The Difference Between Judgment & Discernment 0:27:25 Seventy Ways of Understanding the Torah 0:28:50 Can Women Choose Not to be in Magazines? 0:33:20 Respecting Other Communities’ Religious Choices 0:35:22 Judging People Who Are More Religious Than Us 0:38:50 Trusting Other People’s Spiritual Paths 0:41:50 Having Strong Jewish Values 0:44:50 Live in a Way That Speaks for Itself 0:46:38 Being a Shlucha Without Preaching 0:49:31 Sharing Our Convictions 0:53:00 Educating Our Children Without Fear 0:54:15 Being Role Models for Our Children 0:56:00 The Rebbe Met People Where They Were At 0:57:10 How to Make the Decision to Have a Baby 0:58:25 What is the Jewish Perspective on Pru U’rvu? 1:03:44 Have One More Child Than You Ideally Want to Have 1:04:37 Approaching Hashem with Receptivity 1:06:23 When We Face Discomfort, Hashem Comforts Us 1:07:25 The Difference Between Trust and Free Falling 1:08:15 What to Do When Having Another Child Feels Like Too Much 1:09:43 What Does Having a Large Family Actually Mean? 1:10:27 Showing Up as Ourselves 1:11:25 We Are Each Called to be Leaders 1:13:45 Learning How to Live with What is
170
Believe In Yourself as Much as G-d Does | Rachel Jacobs
Believe In Yourself as Much as G-d Does | Rachel Jacobs
Mar 2, 2025
1:10:21
A conversation about believing in ourselves as much as G-d does, rising to G-d’s call for our mission in this world, moving past numbers as our metric of success, and what we can each learn from Chabad Shluchim. Rachel Jacobs, originally from Los Angeles, California, currently serves as Rebbetzin of Singers Hill Synagogue in Birmingham, England. She is also the Educational Director of the Torah Tots nursery school, the Cheder, and the Jewish studies program at the local King David Primary School. Over the past 20 years, Rachel has gained recognition as an inspiring Jewish speaker, with a particular focus on women’s issues and marriage. Her warmth, charisma, and insightful teachings have touched the lives of Jewish women across the United States and Europe. You can contact Rachel via [email protected] and on instagram @Rachelcjacobs. Today's episode is dedicated in honor of Levi Yizchok ben Chaim Tzvi a"h. Support his family here: https://raisethon.com/leviwolosow. Do a mitzvah in his honor and share it here: https://onemitzvah.org/leviw. Episode Partners: TOVEEDO: An online children's streaming subscription featuring exclusive Jewish content created and sourced by Toveedo. Use code HH10 for 10% off at Toveedo.com. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. 00:27 Toveedo Sponsorship 01:48 Dedication to Levi Wolosow (Levi Yitzchok ben Chaim Tzvi a"h) 02:38 Welcome Rachel Jacobs 10:10 We Were Born Because G-d Believes in Us 20:01 How to Build True Self Esteem 25:40 How to Respond to G-d's Call When We Don't Feel Perfectly Suited 30:06 Moving Past Numbers as a Metric for Success 39:17 Focusing On the Needs of Your Community 42:14 Showing Up Without Expectation of Results 46:16 Consciously Elevating Others 51:37 Stepping Back to Appreciate Our Roles 55:50 Nurturing the Potential in Others When We Don't See It 01:01:10 We Can't Control the Outcome of Our Guidance 01:06:06 Every Person Has a Mission to Fulfill
171
Walking Through the Doorway | Dr. Erica Brown
Walking Through the Doorway | Dr. Erica Brown
Mar 9, 2025
51:01
A conversation about the lessons we can learn from Megillas Esther for our current times, walking through the doorways G-d calls us to, navigating responsibilities that we didn't sign up for, the synthesis of modern wisdom with Torah, differentiating between the sacred and unsacred, and how to begin developing a relationship with Torah study. Dr. Erica Brown is the Vice Provost for Values and Leadership at Yeshiva University and the founding director of its Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks-Herenstein Center for Values and Leadership. She previously served as the director of the Mayberg Center for Jewish Education and Leadership and an associate professor of curriculum and pedagogy at The George Washington University. Erica is the author or co-author of 15 books on leadership, the Hebrew Bible and spirituality. Erica has a daily podcast, “Take Your Soul to Work.” Her book Esther: Power, Fate and Fragility in Exile (Maggid) was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Her latest book is Kohelet and the Search for Meaning (Maggid). She and her husband live in Maryland and have four children, another four through marriage, and six exquisite grandchildren. Explore more of her work at ericabrown.com. Video episode is available on Youtube. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations. Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 2:50 Welcome Dr. Erica Brown 4:43 What We Can Learn from Megillas Esther 10:10 How Can We Show Up Right Now? 12:58 A Relationship with G-d is Dynamic 15:10 Harnessing the Jewish Shift in the Diaspora 18:00 The Power of Invitation 19:00 Developing a Personal Interest in Tanach 21:58 Bringing the Totality of Ourselves to the Text 23:10 The Story of Jonah: The Wishful Fantasy of Adulthood 24:45 When Your Responsibilities Feel Like Too Much 27:58 Getting Guidance From Those Who Have Walked the Path 20:55 When You Didn't Sign Up for What Life is Asking of You 33:50 Asking for Help: Esther and Mordechai's Partnership 35:05 The Mezuzah: Walking Through the Doorway With G-d 37:50 Bringing All Worlds of Wisdom to the Torah 40:50 Filtering Out the Unholy 43:20 Will AI Change the Way We Study Torah? 47:10 Advice on Developing a Relationship with Torah Study
172
Who Do We Give Our Power To?
Who Do We Give Our Power To?
Mar 12, 2025
23:29
A deep lesson from the Purim story about who we give our power to, showing up to create imperfect vessels while believing that G-d can send miracles that far surpass our efforts, and learning to see past the veneer of concealment and experience the soul's identity as primary in our lives. Video episode is available on Youtube. To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected]. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
173
The Bedroom Is the Holy of Holies | Chanie Krasnianski
The Bedroom Is the Holy of Holies | Chanie Krasnianski
Mar 16, 2025
1:28:30
A conversation with Chanie Krasnianski, a seasoned educator and shlucha on the Upper East Side in Manhattan, NY, about the beauty of the Jewish perspective on sexuality, mikvah, and marriage. Explore the spiritual depth of physical attraction, the beauty and struggles that can arise with the laws of family purity, how to navigate religious differences in a relationship, and the deep potential for holiness and profound connection within our most intimate spaces. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00:00 - The Bedroom is the Holy of Holies 0:00:41 - Partner With Human & Holy 0:01:57 - Guest Introduction: Chanie Krasnjanski 0:03:01 - Welcome Chanie 0:03:27 - Topic: Holy Intimacy 0:03:33 - Chanie’s Background 0:05:53 - Bringing Holiness to Marriage 0:07:07 - You Want to Fix the World, Fix Your World 0:08:05 - In Times of Crisis, Strengthen the Home 0:09:11 - The Art of Holy Intimacy: Connection 0:09:42 - How Do You Begin This Conversation? 0:10:27 - Reclaiming Your Sexuality 0:12:48 - Boundaries as Protection, Not Restriction 0:14:08 - What is the Jewish Perspective on Sexuality? 0:14:28 - The Physical Reality Mirrors the Spiritual Reality 0:15:11 - The Kabbalistic Understanding of Male & Female Attraction 0:18:22 - Attraction Outside of Marriage 0:19:05 - The Torah's Perspective Keeps You Honest 0:20:27 - You Choose How to Satisfy Your Hunger 0:22:13 - Halacha Is Not a Checklist 0:26:39 - Accepting the Imperfections in Our Relationship with G-d 0:27:48 - Judaism is Not a Religion 0:28:17 - A Child Learns Faith In Infancy 0:30:36 - Reframing Your Understanding of the Mikvah 0:31:10 - The Spiritual Significance of Mikvah Immersion 0:33:01 - Femininity is a Divine Vessel 0:34:42 - You Can't Override the Spiritual Level of Your Spouse 0:35:59 - Building a Relationship with G-d 0:38:26 - Overcoming Personal Discomfort with Mikvah Ladies 0:41:42 - Your Triggers are Signals 0:43:41 - When Your Spouse Wants Something But It Isn't the Highest Halachic Standard 0:46:07 - When You Feel Uncomfortable Speaking to a Mentor About Intimate Topics 0:52:02 - Religious Guilt Around Sexuality 0:55:11 - G-d as a Loving Father 0:56:40 - You Are Not Your Spouse’s Rabbi 0:57:10 - When a Spouse Is Resistant to the Other's Spiritual Growth 01:02:58 - Your Spouse is a Mirror 01:04:09 - When Niddah Draws You Apart 01:08:21 - The Seasons of Marriage 01:10:49 - There’s Usually a Deeper Reason 01:12:30 - Differentiating Between Law & Custom (Halacha & Chumra) 01:15:13 - Strengthening the Mitzvah of Family Purity 01:19:13 - The Jewish Ideals of Sexual Intimacy Are Designed to Encourage Connection 01:23:24 - Seeking Out the Right Rabbi or Mentor 01:25:24 - Inviting G-d into Our Bedrooms 1:27:31 - Through Intimacy, We Become G-dlike 1:28:02 Host's Outro
174
A Light Unto the Nations | Inbal Levin
A Light Unto the Nations | Inbal Levin
Mar 23, 2025
1:08:56
A conversation about the Lubavitcher Rebbe's perspective on fighting antisemitism, what it truly means to be a light unto the nations and how to find moral clarity in a Godless society. Inbal Levin is a writer, former fashion model, and social media director for Chabad on Campus. You can connect with her via instagram @itsinbal. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00:00 - Sneak Peek 0:01:00 - Introduction of Inbal Levin 0:02:25 - Welcome Inbal 0:03:08 - Inbal’s Background 0:03:46 - Passion for Fashion 0:05:57 - Creativity is Holy 0:06:28 - The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Reflections on the Depth of Art 0:09:11 - Girls on the Cover of the Moshiach Times Magazine 0:10:48 - The Rebbe’s Conversation with the Israeli Beauty Queen 0:14:54 - Being a Jew in Public 0:18:12 - Helping Others Up the Volume on their Own Jewish Pride 0:21:05 - Embracing Jewish Identity in Modern Times 0:21:31 - Inspiring Other's in Their Own Heritage 0:24:25 - The Responsibility of Being the Chosen People 0:26:15 - Moral Clarity 0:27:30 - A Moment of Silence 0:31:00 - A Universal Call to G-dly Awareness 0:32:53 - Bringing Torah to the World 0:37:55 - The Power of Shabbos Candles 0:43:46 - Mitzvah Campaigns: A Response to Darkness 0:50:40 - The Rebbe’s Approach to Antisemitism 0:52:28 - The Haggadah Focuses on Freedom, Not Suffering 0:53:19 - A Judaism of Joy 0:57:15 -Awakening Through Tragedy 01:00:02 - Judaism Asks for Participation 01:03:03 - The Impact of Jewish Rituals on Future Generations 01:05:55 - Follow Up Story on Inbal’s Flight 01:07:40 - Podcast Outro
175
Who Are Our Spiritual Role Models? | Racheli Luftglass
Who Are Our Spiritual Role Models? | Racheli Luftglass
Mar 30, 2025
59:51
A conversation with Rachel Luftglass, a passionate Judaic educator and Tanach scholar, about finding our spiritual role models within the Torah. Racheli shares her journey from struggling with Tanach as a student to falling in love with its stories and teachings, how the characters in Tanach guide her in everyday life, and how engaging deeply with biblical characters can transform the way we live. This discussion includes lessons from biblical characters like Yirmiyahu, Nechemiah, the daughters of Tzelofchad, Devorah, Batya, and Esther. Mrs. Racheli Luftglass is the Principal of Judaic Studies at YULA Girls High School and a kallah teacher. Before moving to the West Coast, she taught at The Frisch School in Paramus, NJ, in the Nach Department and in the Learning Center. At the OU Women’s Initiative, Mrs. Luftglass has served as a Counting Toward Sinai Scholar-in-Residence, presented shiurim and taught “Yirmiyahu’s Canon for Calamity” – an interactive in-depth course at the ALIT Virtual Summer Learning Program. She also taught Sefer Nechemia to over 5,000 women worldwide for Torat Imecha Nach Yomi. Mrs. Luftglass began her career at The Moriah School in Englewood, NJ, where she taught both mainstream and enrichment Judaic Studies classes as well as secular studies in the school’s Gesher Yehuda Program. Mrs. Luftglass graduated from Yeshiva University’s Stern College for Women with a B.A. in music and psychology and holds an M.A. from Columbia University’s Teachers College with a concentration in Education of the Gifted and of the Learning Disabled. She has also completed coursework at Columbia University towards a doctorate degree in neuropsychology. Mrs. Luftglass lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband and five children. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00:00 - Sneak Peek 0:00:37 - Host's Introduction 0:02:10 - Welcome Racheli 0:04:06 - A Personal Passion for Tanach 0:06:00 - The Lost Art of Letter Writing 0:06:54 - The Daughters of Tzelofchad 0:09:15 - Which Characters Do You Currently Connect With? 0:10:25 - How It All Began: Racheli’s Early Experiences with Tanach 0:11:03 - Intertextuality in Tanach 0:13:31 - What We Can Learn From Hashem’s Vulnerable Moments 0:17:10 - Teaching as a Means of Mastery 0:17:54 - Understanding the Prophets 0:19:34 - Yirmiyahu: Survival and Identity in Exile 0:27:22 - Roots and Branches: Continuity in Judaism 0:28:01 - Inner Sense of Connection to Your Values 0:30:19 - Finding Personal Guidance in Tanach 0:32:11 - Devorah: An Unapologetic Voice 0:40:29 - Recurring Themes in the Women in Tanach 0:42:43 - I Am in a Dance With Hashem 0:44:05 - When Hashem Says No 0:47:45 - Following Your Curiosity in Your Studies 0:49:11 - Accessing Tanach 0:52:24 - Connecting Through Art and Personal Stories 0:53:18 - Finding Personal Role Models Within Tanach 0:53:59 - Lessons from Batya & Esther 0:56:38 - Choosing Not to Become Bitter 0:58:36 - Host's Outro
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I Am Here: A Personal Journey Through the Seder | Chani Lipovenko
I Am Here: A Personal Journey Through the Seder | Chani Lipovenko
Apr 6, 2025
54:24
A personal conversation about creating a Seder that allows us to bring our full selves to the experience, finding an accessible entrance into the essence of Jewish holidays and rituals after becoming a mother, and some of the teachings about the steps of the Seder that have welcomed Chani in. Chani is a wife, mother, poet, writer, and aspiring florist. She's an all around creative, and loves bringing beauty and meaning into everyday life. She dabbles in freelance writing and content creation alongside her work at a preschool and a nonprofit organization. You can find her writing and content on Instagram @chani lipovenko and Substack (Tulips & Tantrums). Chani can be contacted at [email protected]. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 0:00:00 - Sneak Peek 0:00:37 - Host's Introduction 0:02:03 - Welcome Chani 0:02:43 - How it Started 0:04:34 - Reimagining the Seder Experience 0:09:56 - Where Am I in This Ritual? 0:14:21 - Leaning into the Physical Act of a Mitzvah 0:17:35 - Experiencing the Essence of a Holiday 0:21:55 - Staying Open to Unexpected Inspiration 0:23:20 - I Can't Recreate My Pre-Baby Life 0:27:10 - Experiencing the Seder as a Personal Journey 0:29:02 - Being An Open Vessel to What the Seder Has to Offer 0:31:25 - Bring Your Heartbreak 0:32:28 - The Soul Can Never Be in Exile 0:35:19 - Encouraging Questions in Our Judaism 0:38:45 - Encouraging Questions 0:41:25 - The Steps of the Seder Are Leading Us Somewhere 0:42:27 - Postpartum: Holding Both Brokenness and Wholeness 0:45:45 - How G-d Sees Us 0:48:13 - Opening the Door to Miracles 0:51:38 - Allowing Ourselves to be Transformed in Small Ways 0:52:28 - The End of the Seder is the Beginning of Freedom 0:53:09 - Host’s Outro
177
Cynicism, Wonder & Questions: The Four Sons as Four Identities Within
Cynicism, Wonder & Questions: The Four Sons as Four Identities Within
Apr 9, 2025
12:41
A teaching about the four sons as four identities within, the choice between cynicism and wonder when observing our lives from the outside, and the gifts hidden in our unexplored questions. Episode sponsored in honor of the speedy Refuah of Sholom Dovber ben Chava. To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected]. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Solo Sessions 00:56 - The Four Sons as Four Identities Within 02:07 - Seeing Our Judaism From the Outside 02:56 - Juxtaposing the Wise & Wicked Sons' Questions 03:25 - Defining Our Questions & Immersing Ourselves in the Search 05:38 - Cynicism or Wonder? 08:20 - When Our Judaism Feels Jaded 09:55 - Learning How to Ask 11:50 - Discussion Game Link to the episode from last year, where we played a conversation game based on this teaching about the four sons: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd3LVLhvMQY
178
Do We Dare to Hope?
Do We Dare to Hope?
Apr 16, 2025
17:41
An episode about the last day of Pesach, becoming receptive to divine revelation, eating the food of Redemption and the vulnerability of hope. Timestamps: 00:00 - Host's Intro 00:52 - The Moshiach Seudah 3:18 - Forty Two Journeys 4:59 - Becoming Receptive to Divine Light 6:17 - Living in a Post Truth Era 8:49 - Eating the Food of Moshiach 11:06 - Rising to Meet a New Reality 11:49 - Experiencing the Moshiach Seudah As a Child 13:31 - The Vulnerability of Hope To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday and Wednesday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
179
The Sacred Passage After Death | Elissa Felder
The Sacred Passage After Death | Elissa Felder
Apr 21, 2025
1:01:26
A conversation exploring the Jewish view of death, grief, and the afterlife. Drawing from her personal losses and decades of spiritual exploration, Elissa shares her journey, reflections from her work preparing bodies for Jewish burial, and powerful insights on mourning rituals and what they can teach us about what it means to truly live. Elissa Felder is the Coordinator for Core’s Communities of Practice. Elissa started and actively manages Core’s community of practice for women engaged with traditional chevrah kadisha. She is responsible for providing on-going professional development for the community. The knowledge she acquired through her work motivated her to write her book, From One Life to the Next Life: The Sacred Passage of Life After Death. Additionally, she is very active in her local chevrah kadisha and speaks widely on this topic. Elissa is the Founding Director of Core Connects RI, a non-profit organization that aims to deepen women’s connections to one another, to Jewish wisdom, and to Jewish values, as well as to empower each other to find greater meaning, purpose, and possibility in life and to cultivate unity without uniformity. As director she is passionate about providing others with opportunities to grow and become. She runs programming both online and in person. Elissa is passionate about bringing Jews together and celebrating their commonalities rather than their differences. Through all of these experiences, Elissa mentors and encourages others on their journeys. You can purchase Elissa's book here: https://mosaicapress.com/product/from-one-life-to-the-next-life/?srsltid=AfmBOorymKsRPl9qZlNH91dglhkMuoqSkLUd1EdThXJfSxY72ARG1UeJElissa can be reached at [email protected] To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Sneak Peek 00:54 - Host’s Intro 03:30 - Welcome Elissa 05:50 - Where Did My Son Go? 07:33 - What Happens After Death? 09:28 - The Soul Separates From Its Body in Stages 10:41 - Purification of the Soul 11:37 - Resurrection of the Dead: A Soul Reunited with Its Body 12:51 - The Deeper Meaning Behind Chevra Kadisha Practices 15:09 - Talking to a Soul: Preparing for Life, Not Death 16:15 - Analogies for Resurrection 18:18 - Why Return to the Body If the Soul Experiences Divine Bliss? 21:11 - Why Are We Here? 23:05 - Elevating Each Part of the Body 24:50 - Living with an Awareness of Life's Fragility 26:27 - The Significance of Morning Prayers 27:22 - Grief is Love 28:36 - Communal Presence During Shiva 29:34 - Witnessing Grief 32:12 - The Power of Small Acts of Love 33:18 - Why We Let Mourners Lead 37:00 - The Soul’s Journey After Death 38:50 - Grief as a Companion 39:47 - The Chevra Kedisha’s Love for the Deceased 40:41 - The Rabbi Who Cared for My Father 42:44 - Caring For My Granddaughter 45:04 - Welcoming the Soul 46:13 - Do We Access the Soul at its Grave? 48:38 - It Is About Life 49:16 - Navigating Grief 52:00 - Letting Our Emotions Flow 57:05 - Choosing Love Over Anger After Loss 01:00:12 - Host’s Outro
180
A Modeh Ani Meditation
A Modeh Ani Meditation
Apr 23, 2025
15:56
Reflections on my birthday, why I think about my mortality, and a Modeh Ani meditation. Episode sponsored by an anonymous sponsor in honor of our LA Tanya class. To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Birthday Reflections 1:27 - Why I Think About My Mortality 4:30 - The Gift of Another Day 5:45 - Forgetting Who We Are 7:33 - Saying Modeh Ani With Intention 9:22 - The Memory of Prayer 12:16 - A Modeh Ani Meditation
181
Reclaiming Dignity | Bracha Poliakoff
Reclaiming Dignity | Bracha Poliakoff
Apr 27, 2025
1:02:22
A conversation with Bracha Poliakoff, co-author of the groundbreaking book Reclaiming Dignity, exploring the deep, spiritual meaning of Tzniut in Judaism. Far from being just a dress code, this episode explores Tzniut as a powerful expression of dignity, internality, and self-respect for both men and women. We discuss halachic sources, misconceptions around modesty, and why more is not always better in this sensitive and central Jewish value. Bracha Poliakoff, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker, speaker, and writer. She currently serves as the founder and director of continuing education at Bright Ideas Continuing Education, providing high-quality programs for mental health professionals in the United States and Canada. Bracha has a strong commitment to Jewish education, having taught Torah to high schoolers and adults in various settings, founded a number of Jewish learning initiatives, and co-authoring Reclaiming Dignity: A Guide to Tzniut for Men and Women. As a passionate member of the Orthodox community, she actively gives back and makes a difference, including serving on the boards of Keneseth Beth Israel (Richmond, VA) and the Women’s Institute of Torah/Mesorah Baltimore (Baltimore, MD). Bracha is also committed to personal and professional development, having participated in The Associated’s Young Leadership Council, Orthodox Union’s Women’s Initiative Leadership Summit, and the Orthodox Leadership Project. She lives in Baltimore, MD, with her husband and three children. Bracha can be contacted at [email protected]. The book, Reclaiming Dignity, can be purchased here: https://amzn.to/4iP9j1O. Find out more on the website www.reclaimingdignity.com. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sneak Peek 00:34 Host’s Intro 02:35 Welcome Bracha 03:33 Why Write a Book on Tznius? 08:10 The Importance of Women’s Voices in the Conversation About Tzniut 11:00 Is Tzniut for Men? 13:07 A Torah Source for Men's Tzniut: Dignity in War 16:07 The Parts of Tzniut That No One Will Ever See 18:10 Shifting My Own Experience of Tzniut 21:36 Removing the Judgment and Pressure 24:08 Are Introverts More Tzniut? 28:37 The Difference Between Erva and Tzniut 30:11 Do Women Dress Tzniut for Men? 35:03 The Negative Impacts of Overemphasizing External Modesty 36:21 Mutual Respect Between Men and Women 38:23 Excessive Modesty Can Sexualize Women 39:26 More is Not Always Better 41:21 Women's Pictures in Magazines 46:00 The Cost of Exclusion 50:32 When I Didn't Want My Own Picture Published 52:00 Determining Your Own Boundaries 53:51 Materialism & Other Areas of Tzniut Beyond Clothing 57:37 How Does Bracha Aim to Show Up? 01:00:57 Host’s Outro
182
Tznius: A Way of Being
Tznius: A Way of Being
Apr 30, 2025
29:51
Personal reflections on some of the central themes in Reclaiming Dignity. Exploring the sanctity of our inner worlds, what it truly means to walk before G-d, how tznius shows up in the way we speak, share of ourselves and spend money, why legislating every detail of tznius robs us of the ability to cultivate own own internal sensitivities, and what it might look like to infuse our clothing with the depth of tznius, instead of having them define it. Link to purchase the book at 15% off: https://mosaicapress.com/product/recl.... Human & Holy discount code is humanandholy15. Find out more on the website www.reclaimingdignity.com. To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday and Wednesday on Youtube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
183
The Feminine Spirit: A Rising Force | Rivky Kaplan
The Feminine Spirit: A Rising Force | Rivky Kaplan
May 4, 2025
1:51:15
A conversation with Rivky Kaplan exploring what it means to lean into the feminine spirit in both the private and public sphere, the Lubavitcher Rebbe's vision for Jewish womanhood, the wisdom available to us in our cycles and the seasons of our life, how to stay connected to the woman beneath the role of mother, and the power of sisterhood in helping us find our voices. Rivky Kaplan is a Chabad Shlucha in Tzfat, Israel with her husband Chaim and family. Rivky teaches Torah and Chassidut in various seminaries as well as many adult education classes both in Israel and abroad. She is passionate about engaging her students in the text and making Torah concepts personal and relevant. Rivky is a Yoetzet Halacha and has recently opened a one of a kind Educational Visitors center in their newly renovated Mikva. She is also a trained Fertility Fellow providing guidance to couples navigating the challenges of infertility. Rivky is also a very proud Bubby. You can contact Rivky at [email protected] To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Sneak Peek 00:27 - Host's Intro 02:13 - Welcome Rivky 05:51 - Rosh Chodesh: A Gift to Women 07:35 -The Lubavitcher Rebbe's Vision for Jewish Womanhood 10:26 - Why Chana Decided to Stay Home 15:00 - Giving Your Child That Little Bit More 16:26 - Why Dena Went Out to Lead 17:35 - Personifying Internality: The Feminine Spirit 19:03 - Beyond Biological Motherhood: A Spiritual Role 21:00 - Expanding the Walls of the Home 23:46 - Capitalizing on What is Unique About Us 25:40 - If the Workplace Was Designed for Women's Needs 28:55 - The World is Waking Up to Feminine Values 29:55 - Listening to Our Bodies 32:50 - I Expected Myself to Be a Full Moon Every Day 33:25 - Understanding the Hormonal Phases 35:15 - Attuning Ourselves to Our Bodies 37:58 - The Phases of Our Menstrual Cycles 38:44 - Wishing My Mother Could Hold My Babies 42:55 - Our Bodies Hold Paradox 44:28 - Carrying Life and Grief in Israel 46:40 - A Disconnect From Our Bodies 47:50 - Navigating Life's Seasons: We Are Both Chana and Dina 50:33 - Being Present Where You Are 52:50 - Staying Connected to What Fuels Me 56:33 - What is a Feminine Way of Giving? 57:56 - Story of the Rebbe: What is the Identifier of a Jewish Girl? 1:01:30 - Shifting the Way the World Sees Jewish Women 1:04:30 - Have We Internalized That Vision? 01:07:05 - Menopause and Its Impact on a Woman’s Identity 1:09:24 - Expanding the Why's That Carried You 1:11:30 - How to Nurture Yourself When You're a Mother 1:13:37 - G-d Trusts Us 1:17:35 - Having a Firsthand Experience of the Torah 1:20:48 - Teaching From a Place of Trust 1:24:25 - Textual Learning Makes Space for Critical Thinking 1:30:58 - There Are Many Ways of Serving G-d 1:33:18 - I Felt Escorted to the Mikvah by the Chain of Jewish Women 1:37:33 - The Contemporary Sisterhood 1:40:00 - Female Soldiers Immersing in the Mikvah 1:41:42 - How to Create Your Own Sisterhood 1:43:28 - You Need One Person to Truly See You 1:49:00 - The World is Waiting for Every Woman's Voice 01:50:05 - Host’s Outro
184
G-d, Do Not Be Far From Me
G-d, Do Not Be Far From Me
May 7, 2025
13:44
A reading of the poem "How a Place Becomes Holy" by Yehoshua November, reflections on the power of calling out to G-d with the few, ambiguous words we have, and the delicate invitations in both creativity and faith to trust what stirs inside us. Episode sponsored in honor of the safety and protection of the Jewish people in the Holy Land. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - "How a Place Becomes Holy" 02:00 - Self-Trust in Creativity 03:45 - Holiness as the Subtext of Reality 04:22 - Story of Yeshaya Bar-Daki: A Cry for Life 06:50 - An Experience at the Mikvah 08:58 - The Holiness in Everyday Life 11:45 - Trusting the Heart's Longings
185
When Doing the Right Thing is No Longer Enough | Bianca Benisti Kaffash
When Doing the Right Thing is No Longer Enough | Bianca Benisti Kaffash
May 11, 2025
52:49
A conversation about discovering a loving relationship with G-d through grief. Bianca shares her personal journey of loss and how it led her to a deeper understanding of G-d's love and connection. We discuss expressing raw emotions in prayer, the Torah as a love letter from G-d, and the significance of gratitude and daily conversation in building a relationship with the Divine. Bianca Benisti Kaffash is a motivational speaker and spiritual coach who has walked through her own challenges to discover a deeper connection with Hashem and the beauty of Torah. She believes in the power of reconnecting with the sacred language of prayer and Torah—something that’s often been cheapened or lost. Now, Bianca is passionate about bringing others back to that language, helping them experience the profound beauty and strength it offers. Through spiritual coaching, personalized prayers, and leading meaningful events, Bianca empowers others to find healing, clarity, and a true connection with Hashem. Follow her on Instagram @ritainspired for raw, heartfelt inspiration and a journey back to the light of Torah. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Sneak Peek 00:16 - Host’s Intro 01:10 - Introduction of Bianca Benisti 02:43 - Welcome Bianca 02:51 - Bianca’s Background + Starting Rita Inspired 04:31 - Grief and Torah as a Healing Language 06:05 - Being Reintroduced to the Torah as Hashem’s Love Language 06:46 - Shifting from Obedience to Connection 08:15 - Mourning Laws as Divine Comfort 09:59 - Inviting G-d In 11:07 - The Only Way Out is Through 11:50 - Experiencing Hashem’s Love Through Loss 13:35 - Surrendering to G-d 15:37 - Having a Conversation with G-d 18:33 - How to Pray When It Feels Imaginative 23:49 - Personal Gratitude and Emotional Honesty 28:46 - How Grief & Singlehood Shaped My Prayer 29:57 - Hashem Wants to Spend Time with Me 30:34 - The Exodus: Crying Out to G-d Sparks Redemption 32:05 - Simple, Raw Prayers Can Bring Miracles 34:13 - Studying Torah to Understand G-d 36:15 - Mitzvot Are Love Maps, Not Restrictions 38:32 - The Message Behind Jealousy 39:46 - Hashem Just Wants You to Be You 40:39 - When G-d Doesn’t Reveal Everything 42:01 - Being Motivated by Love 43:32 - Crisis Can Reveal G-d’s Emotional Presence 46:14 - Finding Clarity in Torah 47:49 - G-d will Find a Way to Get Into Your Painful Moments 48:22 - My Joy Under The Chuppah 51:35 - Host’s Outro
186
Lag Ba'Omer: A Glowing Generation
Lag Ba'Omer: A Glowing Generation
May 14, 2025
25:34
Does each generation get less spiritually sensitive? What is the original source for the idea of "Yeridos Hadoros" -- the decline of the generations -- and in what ways are we experiencing a reversal of that idea? Explore the deeper meaning of Lag Ba'Omer, a teaching from R' Tzadok about the ascent of the generations and why there is an unprecedented spiritual attunement to the deepest parts of Torah. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
187
Jewish Meditation: Breathing G-d into the Body | Zeesy Deren
Jewish Meditation: Breathing G-d into the Body | Zeesy Deren
May 18, 2025
1:04:55
A personal journey of discovering Jewish meditation, taking the cerebral act of study and grounding it in the body through focus and breath. Explore the balance between body and soul, the power of intention in prayer, the difference between Jewish and Eastern meditation, and the spiritual practice of finding balance in our characters through the Sefirot. A mom of seven, Zeesy is the director of Sinai Academy Jewish International School and Cape Town Torah High School. She is the spiritual feminine leader of Blouberg Jewish Community Centre. Zeesy gives ongoing psycho-spiritual ‘soultalks’ in the community, sharing her passion of bringing people closer to their soul source. She coaches women around the world with ‘Echad coaching’ bringing body and soul together. Find out more about Zeesy's work here: www.echad.co.za Get in touch with Zeesy at [email protected] * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Sneak Peek 00:17 - Host's Intro 01:17 - Support Human & Holy 01:39 - Welcome Zeesy 03:34 - The Birth of Echad: Mindfulness & Meditation 05:31 - Integrating Body and Soul in Spiritual Practice 09:01 - Learning & Practicing Meditation 10:47 - Chassidic Meditation Practice 14:05 - Jewish Meditation vs. Eastern Meditation 18:22 - An Example of Jewish Meditation 22:24 - How Torah Learning Becomes Embodied 24:57 - Da’at: Intimacy with G-d Through Torah and Body 32:10 - Practical Tools for Spiritual Integration 34:00 - The Power of Single Tasking 34:52 - Morning Rituals and Connection to Nature 36:13 - Building a Meaningful Prayer Practice 38:45 - Integrating Gratitude into Daily Life 41:00 - Heartfelt Prayer: Emotional Presence in Judaism 42:42 - Understanding the Sefirot and Personal Growth 48:19 - Balancing Character Traits 49:46 - Breathing the Sefirot Into Your Day 51:57 - Hashem in the Slow Lane: Trusting Divine Timing 54:18 - Peak Judaism: When Body and Soul Are One 55:34 - Experiencing G-d On Slower Days 57:30 - Vulnerability in Prayer 59:58 - Grounding Ourselves in Our Bodies 1:03:43 - Host's Outro
188
Q & A: Maturing in Our Judaism, Friendship, Motherhood and Spiritual Ruts
Q & A: Maturing in Our Judaism, Friendship, Motherhood and Spiritual Ruts
May 21, 2025
28:36
Answering listener questions on maturing in our Judaism, maintaining a spiritual sense of self when mothering small children, friendship, Torah study, and spiritual ruts. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
189
The Torah Didn't Always Feel Like Mine | Lauren Nagel, Devora Pinson & Chana Arnold
The Torah Didn't Always Feel Like Mine | Lauren Nagel, Devora Pinson & Chana Arnold
May 24, 2025
1:06:11
In honor of Shavuos, three women — Lauren Nagel, Devora Pinson, and Chana Arnold — sit down for a raw and honest conversation about receiving the Torah anew in our adult lives. What are some of the things that have disconnected us from the Torah over the years? What are some of the things that have softened those blockages? And in what ways has the Torah become the greatest gift of our lives? If you connected to something that was shared in this episode, let our generous guests know: Devora Pinson: [email protected] Lauren Nagel: [email protected] Chana Arnold: [email protected] EPISODE SPONSORS: This episode is sponsored by Finds By Rivka. Think of Rivka’s finds as a personal shopper who sifts through the sale pages to find the best Tznius clothing deals! Join 3,000+ other women who are loving the group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LBOxmcsZin66u7brbOvx4l * * * * * * * Babyccino is a Mommy & Me class curriculum designed to facilitate meaningful, Jewish experiences for mothers and babies. We can only receive the Torah that is given to us, and the Torah is given to children, first, by their mothers. Find out more here: www.babyccinoclass.com * * * * * * * This episode is co-sponsored and dedicated with love by Riki to a special "Human & Holy" person, mother and friend, Miriam Frimet Bas Tzivia, upon her birthday. May it be a Zchus. * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Sneak Peek 00:17 - Host's Intro 01:45 - Sponsorship Message: Finds by Rivka 03:03 - Meet the Guests: Devora, Chana, Lauren 05:18 - Spiritual Backgrounds 08:52 - I Needed More 12:10 - The Torah Feeds My Soul 16:34 - Choosing the Torah Again 17:50 - The Torah as a Tree of Life 19:58 - I Was Just Repeating What I Learned 22:55 - Real Learning Creates Space for Real Struggles 24:21 - Letting Go of Perfectionism 30:06 - I Lost Everything 32:28 - When I Began to Access Hashem 33:27 - Holding Pain & Faith Simultaneously 35:33 - I Am Not Alone 37:37 - A Real Relationship Welcomes Your Full Self 40:54 - What Do We Do With Our Freedom? 42:05 - The Torah Can't Be Done in Isolation 44:30 - I Skip to My Torah Classes 46:05 - From "I Have to" to "I Get To" 49:51 - Torah is an Overflowing Ocean 51:08 - Raising Kids with G-d Consciousness 54:01 - When You See the Light Shining in Other Women 54:37 - The Torah Shifted Me 56:22 - Investing in Our Relationship with G-d 58:24 - Shavuos as a Relationship Renewal 01:01:07 - Sharing Torah at the Table 01:01:44 - Beautifying Our Experience of the Torah 01:04:38 - Host's Outro
190
Shavuos: A Journey Inward or Beyond?
Shavuos: A Journey Inward or Beyond?
May 28, 2025
22:04
We spend weeks leading up to Shavuot refining our characters. And then we receive G-d's Torah, which asks us to faithfully reflect the light of the Divine in this world. Does the Torah mark a path to self development or self transcendence? What might it look like to be both surrendered and distinctly who we are? * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - The Gift of the Torah 02:50 - Understanding Bitul: Reflecting the Divine 05:57 - The Interplay of Self-Development and Self-Transcendence 08:51 - The Role of Rosh Chodesh in Preparing for Receiving the Torah 12:04 - Naaseh v'Nishmah: Redefining Our Sense of Self 15:07 - Expanding, Not Shrinking
191
When a Woman Finds Her Voice
When a Woman Finds Her Voice
Jun 4, 2025
37:02
The cost of undeveloped potential, the misguided instinct to protect our brightest lights, why Dinah felt an internal call to leave her home and lead, and why the world is waiting for women to trust and raise their own distinct voices. Based on a talk of the Lubavitcher Rebbe about Dinah. Likkutei Sichos, Volume 35, Vayishlach Sicha 3. Link to the episode with Rivky Kaplan: https://humanandholy.com/the-feminine-spirit-a-rising-force-rivky-kaplan * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
192
Chassidus Through the Eyes of a Psychotherapist | Devori Nussbaum
Chassidus Through the Eyes of a Psychotherapist | Devori Nussbaum
Jun 8, 2025
2:00:20
A conversation with Devori Nussbaum, a psychotherapist and Tanya teacher, about emotional honesty in our spiritual growth and living with open-hearted presence. Devori shares her unique approach to integrating Chassidus and psychotherapy, offering powerful insights into shedding old identities, processing the grief of life, and tapping into the opportunity for connection with G-d at every moment. Devori is an integrative psychotherapist who has trained in many different healing modalities including body psychotherapy, imago therapy, logotherapy, the energetics of food, quantum touch, breathwork, CBT, NLP, EMDR, IFS, inner child work and somatic modalities. She is also passionate about teaching Chassidus in a way that is accessible, relevant and embodied, showing people that these teachings are not just nice ideas, but a description of our reality. Get in touch with Devori and find out more about her work on www.devorinussbaum.com. * * * * * * * EPISODE SPONSOR: "Miss Rose is Worried" by Estee Cohen is a heartwarming story that shows that every child's individuality is a gift. Their quirks and character traits, if nurtured rather than suppressed, become the foundation of who they are meant to be. Link to purchase the book here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/miss-rose-is-worried-estee-cohen/1146818067 To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Sneak Peek & Sponsorship 02:25 – Meet Devori Nussbaum 04:45 – The Power of Real Human Presence 07:12 – What Is Chassidus Meant to Do for the Human Psyche? 12:00 – Finding the Balance Between Presence & Spiritual Aspiration 18:04 – Embracing the Void: Turning Emotional Numbness into a Portal for Growth 21:15 – Seeing Beneath the Surface of Reality 26:00 – How Unprocessed Grief Blocks Our Hearts—and How to Reopen Them 30:11 - The Role of Grief in Spiritual Growth 36:01 - Holy Honesty 38:00 – Bringing G-d into Daily Life 44:53 - Navigating the Fear of Change 47:00 – Regulating Your Nervous System 54:30 – One Minute a Day: Building Presence in Busy Lives 1:02:15 – Kavanah and Mitzvot: How One Moment Can Fill a Lifetime 1:07:30 – Animal Soul vs. Divine Soul: A Compassionate Integration 1:12:00 – Redefining Iskafya: Presence, Breath, and Spiritual Discipline 1:16:30 – Choosing Growth vs. Chasing Perfection 1:29:10 - Crumbling into Grief 1:41:00 – How to Navigate Religious Trauma 1:44:15 – Parents, Fear, and Compassion: Reframing the Narrative 1:47:00 – The Magic of Retreats 1:53:30 – Personal Journey: From Control to Joy 1:57:05 – Presence, Honesty, and Shedding the Snake Skin 1:59:00 – Host’s Outro
193
Lech Lecha: The Call of the Open Road
Lech Lecha: The Call of the Open Road
Oct 29, 2025
26:12
G-d's call to Avraham is the call to a life of openness, attention, inner transformation, self awareness and trust. Lessons from Parshas Lech Lecha on finding the courage to answer the call of the open road, develop our inner worlds and step into the unknown. * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
194
What Do You Really, Really Want?
What Do You Really, Really Want?
Sep 17, 2025
19:31
The Shofar is a call to face your own desire. Its explosive call on Rosh Hashanah is an invitation to be awoken to the depths within us, to witness the divine desire with which G-d created the world, and to have the courage to face the gaps between where we are and what we truly want. Source: Likkutei Torah Tiku Bachodesh, Parshas Netzavim, pg. 106 SPONSOR: Sponsored in honor of Malka Mayasha bat Esther, for a year of blessings and joy. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 The Call of the Shofar: Awakening the Soul's Desire 02:48 Rosh Hashanah: Renewal and Connection 06:08 Understanding G-d's Desire: The Essence of Creation 08:47 Two Levels of Divine Will 11:55 The Gift of Rupture: Awakening Your Depths 14:47 The Courage to Face Our True Desires 18:07 Meeting G-d: The Divine Invitation on Rosh Hashanah
195
Start With Compassion | Matti Banon
Start With Compassion | Matti Banon
Sep 21, 2025
59:32
Elul and the high holidays are a period of introspection and self accounting. In this conversation with Matti Banon, we discuss the Chassidic perspective on gentle growth, what it looks like to live our lives with agency while remaining humble enough to recognize our recurring flaws, the balance between intellect and emotion, the transformative power of compassion and curiosity, and the parenting truths that can guide us in becoming more whole ourselves. Matti Banon is a campus shlucha in Montreal who enjoys learning and delving into topics like marriage and parenting through the lens of Chassidus. Her children are her biggest helpers when it comes to her shlichus and self growth. She can be reached at [email protected] References: Story of the Baal Shem Tov & the shofar: https://www.chabad.org/library/article cdo/aid/3080/jewish/The-Master-Key.htm Chapter 27 of the Tanya (the sweet & spicy paths): https://www.chabad.org/library/tanya/tanya cdo/aid/7906/jewish/Chapter-27.htm More about Reb Levi Yitzchok of Berdichev: https://www.chabad.org/library/article cdo/aid/1007604/jewish/A-Brief-Biography.htm The 4 Body System: https://a.co/d/djfpzDu Parenting reference: Blimieheller.com * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 01:53 The Essence of Parenting and Nurturing 05:13 Leading Ourselves: The Journey of Self-Discovery 10:03 Awareness and Compassion: The First Steps 14:42 The Role of Emotions in Personal Growth 19:52 The Chassidic Balance of Intellect and Emotion 24:48 Transforming the Inner Critic 29:43 Discipline and Connection in Parenting 34:33 Embracing Imperfection and Growth 39:27 The Importance of Compassion in Relationships 44:34 Curiosity and Self-Exploration 49:06 Final Thoughts
196
Reconnecting with the Divine: Faith, Grief & Teshuvah | Sara Mayberg
Reconnecting with the Divine: Faith, Grief & Teshuvah | Sara Mayberg
Sep 28, 2025
1:05:04
In this raw conversation with Sara Mayberg, we explore Sara's personal process of Teshuvah and the path back to her divine soul, as someone who was already committed to her Jewish practice. We discuss how the inherent nature of the divine soul is to want G-d, how Sara began to develop a visceral experience of trust, and how grief can crack us open in transformative ways. Other topics explored: how financial struggles can be invitations to lean on G-d, the significance of community in the path back to ourselves, learning to see the divine in others, the ongoing process of return, and the journey to reclaiming a sense of choice in our Judaism and relationships. Sara can be contacted at [email protected]. * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 Reconnecting with Joy 01:26 The Journey of Trust and Divine Connection 03:45 Awakening Through Relationships 07:49 The Catalyst of Darkness 11:04 Surrendering to the Void 14:56 Finding G-d in Material Insecurity 20:15 Navigating Financial Strain and Trust 22:41 Grieving and Embracing New Perspectives 29:31The Ongoing Conversation with Hashem 32:28 Experiencing Hashem Within and Around Us 34:18 Integrating Knowledge into the Body 36:34 The Role of Prayer and Learning in Personal Growth 38:59 Understanding the Animal and Divine Souls 42:26 Compassion and Connection in Healing 45:12 Seeing the Divine in Others 48:37 Building Community and Support 50:27 Reconnecting with Judaism and Mitzvot 52:59 The Process of Teshuvah and Reclaiming Choice 55:53 Acceptance and Compassion in Relationships 59:04 Trusting the Power of Our Souls 01:00:58 Letting Go to Make Space for What's Next 01:02:12 "I Love You"
197
Yom Kippur Meditation: Accessing Forgiveness
Yom Kippur Meditation: Accessing Forgiveness
Oct 1, 2025
11:16
A meditation to open us up to the profound spiritual potential of Yom Kippur — the day of G-d's ultimate love. Together, we explore what it means for the day to atone, and how we might be softened and expanded by our encounter with Hashem. * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
198
Bring Your Sorrow to the Dance Floor: Sukkos & the Emotional Complexity of Joy
Bring Your Sorrow to the Dance Floor: Sukkos & the Emotional Complexity of Joy
Oct 5, 2025
19:03
How do we access joy when the world feels heavy? How do we lean into joy amidst collective anguish, grief, and global uncertainty? As we enter the holiday of Sukkos, the time of our joy, we are asked to celebrate. But what does it look like to celebrate honestly, without ignoring the ache of our times? In this episode, we explore how Sukkos offers a model of Jewish joy that honors the emotional complexity of life. A joy that is not about denying our pain, but about making a courageous spiritual choice: to recognize the divine presence and be moved by it, to root more deeply into our communal spaces and our responsibility for one another, and to bring our sorrow to the dance floor, trusting in its ultimate healing. Sources: Chapter 33, Tanya by the Alter Rebbe "I Praised Happiness" by Rabbi Shagar "Catharsis" by Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik Likutei Moharan, Part II 23:1:2 Rabbi Isaac Luria, Pri Etz Hayim, Sukkot * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.
199
Can Women Dance With the Torah?
Can Women Dance With the Torah?
Oct 12, 2025
53:05
A historical, halachic and cultural exploration of women's celebration of Simchas Torah. Through a poll of women's experiences, a deep dive into relevant halachic and historical sources, and an analysis of Rabbi Shlomo Riskin's visit to the Lubavitcher Rebbe asking if the women of his community could dance with the Torah, we explore questions like: Is Simchas Torah a “men’s holiday”? Is there an essential difference between men and women’s relationship to this day? How did the custom to dance with the Torah develop? Can women dance with the Torah? Should women dance at all? Join us in exploring women's relationship to this joyful, celebratory holiday. Sources: The Diary of Samuel Pepys, entry for October 14, 1663 "Law as Love" by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Shlomo Riskin, Listening to G-d (New Milford, CT: Maggid, 2010), pp.193-96 Lubavitcher Rebbe's letter to Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, 13 Kislev 1976 Rambam Hilchot Shofar V'sukka V'lulav 8:14 Chemdat Yamim III Sukka 8 "Dancing With the Torah" by Laurie Novick R. Moshe Meiselman, Jewish Woman in Jewish Law (New York, 1978) Shulchan Aruch OC 88 * * * * * * * To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. * * * * * * * TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction: Why We're Exploring This Topic 02:49 What Simchas Torah Means to Me 05:24 Poll Results on Women's Experiences of Simchas Torah 7:00 Is There an Essential Difference Between Men and Women's Relationship to Dancing on Simchas Torah? 9:39 Participating Through Watching 10:32 Being a Bystander 11:18 The Pain of Alienation 13:39 Why Do Women Dance? 14:40 What Motivates Women's Desire to Dance With the Torah? 17:20 When Rabbi Shlomo Riskin Went to Ask the Lubavitcher Rebbe's Advice 21:18 The Lubavitcher Rebbe's Retraction 23:50 When Samuel Pepys Visited a Synagogue in 1663 25:30 The Evolution of the Tradition of Dancing 29:11 What is the Barrier to Women Dancing with the Torah? 31:10 Diversity of Rabbinic Perspectives on the Topic 32:40 Exploring the Custom Women Took Upon Themselves Not to Touch the Torah 39:15 Recognizing the Nuances of this Topic 41:30 Women Yearning to Dance with the Torah 43:55 Cultural Impact of Each Woman's Experience 45:00 Ensuring a Vibrant Women's Section 47:00 Simchas Torah Belongs to the Entire Jewish People
200
What Bereshis Teaches Us About Co-Creating Reality | Charlotte Broukhim
What Bereshis Teaches Us About Co-Creating Reality | Charlotte Broukhim
Oct 19, 2025
1:17:16
What does the biblical description of the world's creation have to teach us about our role in the world's future? In a time of rapid technological change, our place in co-creating the development of reality has never felt more pressing. Through an exploration of the converge of science and Torah and the deep lessons within our origin story in the book of Bereshit, we explore how we are each being called to co-create reality, what role divine acts have to play in awakening our interconnectedness, the importance of individuality in spiritual expression, and the renewed opportunities available to us within our world's continuous creation. Charlotte Broukhim is a Jewish mom from Los Angeles who explores the intersections of Jewish mysticism, science, and politics. She studied comparative religion at Harvard, and her upcoming Substack will share practical reflections and insights at the crossroads of ancient wisdom and today’s world. Find her on instagram @cbroukhim and contact her at [email protected]. * * * * * * EPISODE SPONSOR: Today’s episode is sponsored by SHARE, a global initiative connecting individuals to the timeless teachings of the inner dimension of Jewish wisdom, known as Pnimiyut Hatorah. Their mission is to inspire soulful living and learning by translating ancient insights for the contemporary moment. You can learn more on https://share.fund/learn/ Explore their new book, an English translation of Rabbi Yehuda Ashlag’s Introduction to the Zohar: The Wisdom of Truth here: https://korenpub.com/products/introdu... To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at [email protected] To support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor. Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨ Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction 03:15 When Judaism Began to Impact my Worldview 06:33 Where is Our Technological Development Leading Us? 8:47 Where Science and Torah Converge 12:00 Bringing G-d Consciousness into the Development of AI 16:00 The Wisdom of Shabbat in a Digital World 18:25 Divine Responsibility Keeps Us Tethered to a Global Reality 19:42 Why Should a Spiritual Life Include Divine Laws (Halachah)? 23:19 Four Levels of Understanding Truth 24:16 What is the Messianic Era? 26:20 Spiritual Knowledge Without Responsibility 28:23 Being Like Our Creator: The Greatest Pleasure is to Give 31:20 The First Verse of the Torah: Why Do We Begin With a Story? 32:50 Torah as a Description of Reality 33:13 The World Has a Beginning 34:30 G-d Spoke the World into Existence: What Does That Mean? 37:50 Why Isn't the First Verse of the Torah a Commandment? 38:15 Two Levels of Divine Light 39:30 Co-Creating a Future With G-d 41:00 Our Lives Are a Gift 43:00 The Illusion of Separateness 44:44 Individuality: Distinct Divine Light 47:00 Does Religion Mean Removing Channels for Self-Expression? 48:50 The Limitations of a Fixed Identity 50:08 Channeling Your Unique Soul 50:47 G-d Consciousness Brings Me Freedom 52:15 The Soul Vs. The Ego 53:40 This is Who I Am: Judaism Beyond Obligation 58:45 Mitzvot as Remembrances 1:00:00 Activating Your Power Through Divine Acts 1:01:54 You Are Not Measured Against Anyone But Yourself 1:04:10 Can We Experience Objective Truth? 1:07:30 Cancel Culture and the Power to Recreate Yourself 1:10:15 Teshuvah Was Created Before Creation 1:14:10 Did G-d Create the World and Then Leave It?