“What does Hashem really want from me?” It's a question we all ask at some point, and Moshe Rabbeinu gives a clear answer in Parshas Eikev: fear Hashem, walk in His ways, love Him, and serve Him with all your heart. But how do these lofty goals translate into practical life? And why do so many people hesitate to take that first step? In this episode, Rabbi Klapper explores the timeless wisdom of the Ramchal, revealing how our purpose in life is spelled out in the Torah—but it’s a long road that requires effort and patience. Through relatable stories and insights, he shows how choosing the “long-short road” may seem harder at first but ultimately leads to true fulfillment. This episode will help you embrace the journey toward becoming the person Hashem wants you to be. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

We all know time is precious—yet we waste so much of it on things that don’t truly matter. The Ramchal challenges us to rethink our priorities: are we investing our time in what’s truly important, or are we letting life slip by while focusing on trivialities? In this episode, Rabbi Klapper explores how Yiras Shamayim—true awe of Hashem—is the ultimate Chochmah, but it requires effort, focus, and consistent work. Why do we spend hours perfecting our careers and hobbies, yet neglect the most vital parts of life? This episode will guide you on how to shift your mindset and use your time wisely, turning each moment into a step toward real growth and self-transformation. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

People will go to the ends of the earth for money—but how many chase after Yiras Shamayim with the same intensity? The Ramchal teaches us that the greatest treasure we can pursue is spiritual growth. But unlike wealth, Yiras Shamayim doesn’t come naturally. You have to search for it, work on it, and prioritize it above all else. In this episode, Rabbi Klapper challenges us to rethink what we’re chasing in life. Why do people dedicate their lives to building fortunes but neglect their character? How do our hardest struggles reveal the areas we’re meant to grow in? And what would happen if we pursued personal development with the same energy we put into our careers? This episode will inspire you to shift your focus from fleeting wealth to lasting spiritual riches. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

What’s your real life’s work—building your bank account or building yourself? The Ramchal reminds us that avodas Hashem isn't just about knowing the right things. It’s about developing our midos and refining our character. Yet, so many people are afraid to look in the mirror and ask, “Am I really the person I should be?” In this episode, Rabbi Klapper takes a deep dive into the process of self-development. Why do so many people face a midlife crisis, feeling empty despite their worldly successes? And how can early investment in personal growth prevent those moments of regret? This episode will inspire you to make your life’s focus your own growth, ensuring that when you look back, you’ll see a life of meaning, not wasted potential. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

Why do so many ambitious plans for spiritual growth fail? The Ramchal teaches us that the key to lasting success in avodas Hashem isn’t about how fast we grow but about how wisely we plan. It’s not just about inspiration—it’s about knowing yourself, recognizing your limits, and pacing your efforts to avoid burnout. In this episode, Rabbi Klapper explores practical strategies for personal growth, from using incentives to stay motivated to understanding the dangers of an “all-or-nothing” mindset. How do you balance ambition with patience? And how do you build a plan that works for you? This episode will help you create a sustainable approach to growth, ensuring that your spiritual goals don’t fizzle out. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

Ever notice how young children have a pure, unshakable belief in Hashem? That’s because emunah is natural—it’s hardwired into every human soul. Yet as we grow older, cynicism creeps in, clouding this innate faith. Why does this happen? And how can we reclaim the simplicity of belief in a complicated world? In this episode, Rabbi Klapper explores the Ramchal’s profound insight: unlike yirah and ahavah, which require effort to cultivate, emunah is already inside us. But maintaining it requires care—keeping negativity and doubts at bay. Through relatable stories and practical advice, this episode offers a path to nurturing your natural faith and holding onto the clarity that life’s distractions often bury. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

This week, we explore the Ramchal’s teachings on sensitivity to life’s details and the transformative power of Mussar in navigating our inner contradictions. Why do we so often overlook the aspects of life that truly matter? How can we shift from living with guilt to embracing a productive path of Teshuva?  Join us as we discuss how learning Mussar provides the clarity and tools to process our struggles, develop resilience, and find purpose in the process of growth. With a focus on practical insights, this episode will inspire you to recognize the significance of details and how they shape your relationship with Hashem and yourself. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of Yiras Shamayim and what it truly means to go beyond the basics in Avodas Hashem. Why do people resist taking on extra responsibilities like chumras, and how can they actually strengthen our relationship with Hashem?  Through the lens of the Ramchal’s teachings, we’ll uncover the power of lifnim mishuras hadin—going above and beyond halachic obligations—not as a burden, but as an opportunity to enhance our spiritual lives. Join us as we reflect on the importance of Mussar, the effort required for growth, and the extraordinary rewards that come with true dedication to Avodas Hashem. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

This episode tackles an age-old question: Why do so many people overlook learning Mussar, even though it’s critical to true spiritual growth? Do we dismiss it as "too simple," or do we assume it’s only for those struggling with other areas of Torah?  Join us as we explore the Ramchal’s call to prioritize Mussar and how it can transform not just our knowledge, but our connection to Hashem and our purpose in life. We'll debunk the myths surrounding Mussar and highlight its universal relevance—whether you're a beginner or a talmid chacham. Together, let’s reclaim the passion and importance of a Mussar seder and bring it back into the heart of our daily Avodah. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

This week, we explore the Ramchal’s perspective on intellect and its potential for personal transformation. Have you ever wondered why intellectual achievements alone don’t lead to true fulfillment? Why do so many brilliant minds struggle to translate their insights into real personal growth?  Join us as we dive into Mesilas Yesharim and uncover the secret to using your mind—not just for knowledge, but for self-improvement. We’ll challenge the common idea of intellect as a purely external pursuit and show how true wisdom lies in applying what we know to change who we are. Through practical advice and timeless lessons, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to move beyond theory and become their best self. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

In this episode, we continue exploring Mesilas Yesharim, uncovering the gap between knowing the truth and living it. Have you ever felt clarity in a shiur or davening but struggled to apply it when faced with real-life challenges? Why is it so hard to transform what we know into how we act?  Join us as we delve into the Ramchal’s timeless guidance on turning intellectual clarity into a lived experience. Through relatable examples and practical advice, we’ll discuss how constant repetition and reflection are the keys to personal growth. This isn’t just about adding more knowledge—it’s about creating lasting change, one small step at a time. Perfect for anyone ready to take their learning to the next level and truly make it real. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

Welcome to the very first episode of the Real Judaism - Mesilas Yesharim podcast series, where timeless Torah wisdom meets real-life application. This week, Rabbi Ari Klapper begins an incredible journey into Mesilas Yesharim, offering insights on how to bring clarity and focus into our Avodas Hashem. Why do we often forget the most important truths, even as we strive to live by them? And how can we take foundational knowledge and make it part of our daily lives? In this introductory episode, you’ll discover how Mesilas Yesharim helps us bridge the gap between what we know and how we live. Whether you’re a seasoned learner or just starting out, this series offers inspiration and tools to deepen your understanding and connection to Torah values. Real Judaism is hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions. For more episodes and resources, visit realjudaism.org. Join us as we embark on a transformative exploration of the principles that form the foundation of a meaningful Jewish life.