What if everything you see in the physical world is only the surface layer of a much deeper spiritual reality? In this fascinating class based on Derech Hashem, Rabbi Shafier explores the idea that every physical entity has a spiritual counterpart that sustains it and directs its existence. Using the moon and stars as a vivid example, he reveals how the unseen spiritual world orchestrates everything we experience. With striking metaphors, Rabbi Shafier shows how your actions create nuclear-level, spiritual impact and shape the world far more than we realize. Insightful, mind-expanding, and deeply motivating, this class will make you rethink what your choices truly accomplish and why they matter so much.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

What happens when a person gives in to desire so completely that it becomes part of who they are? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier revisits the chilling story of Titus, the destroyer of the Second Beis Hamikdash, and the haunting punishment that followed him for seven years. But the lesson goes far beyond history. With a sharp, unforgettable analogy, Rabbi Shafier explains how unchecked desires don’t just lead to bad choices, they can reshape a person’s very essence, like a diamond that appears flawless on the outside while hiding deep internal cracks. He then offers a powerful framework for fighting back, showing how the struggle itself is what reveals your true self, like a laser cutting away what doesn’t belong. Deep, thought-provoking, and intensely practical, this class will change the way you understand temptation and what’s truly at stake in your inner battles.  What happens when a person gives in to desire so completely that it becomes part of who they are? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier revisits the chilling story of Titus, the destroyer of the Second Beis Hamikdash, and the haunting punishment that followed him for seven years. But the lesson goes far beyond history. With a sharp, unforgettable analogy, Rabbi Shafier explains how unchecked desires don’t just lead to bad choices, they can reshape a person’s very essence, like a diamond that appears flawless on the outside while hiding deep internal cracks. He then offers a powerful framework for fighting back, showing how the struggle itself is what reveals your true self, like a laser cutting away what doesn’t belong. Deep, thought-provoking, and intensely practical, this class will change the way you understand temptation and what’s truly at stake in your inner battles.  What happens when a person gives in to desire so completely that it becomes part of who they are? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier revisits the chilling story of Titus, the destroyer of the Second Beis Hamikdash, and the haunting punishment that followed him for seven years. But the lesson goes far beyond history. With a sharp, unforgettable analogy, Rabbi Shafier explains how unchecked desires don’t just lead to bad choices, they can reshape a person’s very essence, like a diamond that appears flawless on the outside while hiding deep internal cracks. He then offers a powerful framework for fighting back, showing how the struggle itself is what reveals your true self, like a laser cutting away what doesn’t belong. Deep, thought-provoking, and intensely practical, this class will change the way you understand temptation and what’s truly at stake in your inner battles.  What happens when a person gives in to desire so completely that it becomes part of who they are? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier revisits the chilling story of Titus, the destroyer of the Second Beis Hamikdash, and the haunting punishment that followed him for seven years. But the lesson goes far beyond history. With a sharp, unforgettable analogy, Rabbi Shafier explains how unchecked desires don’t just lead to bad choices, they can reshape a person’s very essence, like a diamond that appears flawless on the outside while hiding deep internal cracks. He then offers a powerful framework for fighting back, showing how the struggle itself is what reveals your true self, like a laser cutting away what doesn’t belong. Deep, thought-provoking, and intensely practical, this class will change the way you understand temptation and what’s truly at stake in your inner battles.  What happens when a person gives in to desire so completely that it becomes part of who they are? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier revisits the chilling story of Titus, the destroyer of the Second Beis Hamikdash, and the haunting punishment that followed him for seven years. But the lesson goes far beyond history. With a sharp, unforgettable analogy, Rabbi Shafier explains how unchecked desires don’t just lead to bad choices, they can reshape a person’s very essence, like a diamond that appears flawless on the outside while hiding deep internal cracks. He then offers a powerful framework for fighting back, showing how the struggle itself is what reveals your true self, like a laser cutting away what doesn’t belong. Deep, thought-provoking, and intensely practical, this class will change the way you understand temptation and what’s truly at stake in your inner battles.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Do you believe in Hashem, but sometimes feel that He’s out to get you? Then you have emunah, but lack bitachon. You see, it’s not enough to simply recognize that Hashem runs the world. As a frum Jew, you are also meant to internalize that Hashem is directly involved in your own life and knows what is best for you. Many of our problems with bitachon stem from the fact that we think we know better than G-d. Too often, we assume we know the bigger picture and feel abandoned by our Creator. In this Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier shares some practical ideas on how to make Hashem real. Pick a method that speaks to you, and transform your life into one of genuine trust and menuchas hanefesh.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why does life feel like a constant tug-of-war between what the body wants and what the soul knows is right? In this unforgettable class on the Derech Hashem, Rabbi Shafier explains that Hashem created man from two opposing parts, the guf and the neshamah, and that this inner war is not a flaw but the very purpose of existence. He shows why beauty and misery can coexist, and why this world was never meant to be a place of lasting comfort, but of spiritual growth and accomplishment. Through a vivid mashal of a princess living among peasants, Rabbi Shafier reveals that true happiness comes from aligning with our spiritual nature. If you’ve ever wondered why life is so hard, this class will give you a perspective that changes everything.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why does life feel like a constant tug-of-war between what the body wants and what the soul knows is right? In this foundational class on Derech Hashem, Rabbi Shafier explains that Hashem created man from two opposing forces, the guf and the neshamah, and that this inner conflict is not a bug, it's the very purpose of life. With awesome clarity, he explores why beauty and misery can exist side by side, and why this world was not designed for comfort, but for growth and spiritual accomplishment. If you’ve ever wondered why life is so hard, this class will give you a startling perspective that changes everything.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why do small temptations feel harmless in the moment, but later seem impossible to break free from? In this shocking class, Rabbi Shafier explores the yetzer hara not as a sudden force that overwhelms, but as a slow, strategic trap. What begins like a delicate spider web can slowly tighten into a rope that controls a person’s choices. Drawing on a powerful Gemara, he reveals the striking difference between how the righteous and the wicked perceive the same struggle, and why recognizing the yetzer hara early is the key to protecting your life and your values. Crazy practical and full of sharp insight, this class will strengthen your ability to master temptation before it masters you.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Parshas Vayechi- A Ben Olam HaBa Every painful drop of suffering in olam hazeh has the potential to change your everlasting eternity. So why, in this week’s parsha, does Yaakov Avinu long for more tranquility? We know that our Avos wanted nothing more than to serve Hashem in total sincerity- if Yaakov Avinu wanted shalva, it was only to enhance his avodas Hashem. Hashem answers that his appreciation for olam haba was lacking. Does that mean that Yaakov Avinu wasn’t the ultimate ben olam haba? Given over with Rabbi Shafier’s trademark lucidity, this Shmuz delivers a contemporary perspective on the purpose of hardships in this world. Listen in to discover: -Why you gain from your nisayonos - What’s expected of you - How Hashem set up this world as a training ground, so you can receive your ultimate reward in the World to Come.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

In this week’s parsha we learn of Yosef’s impeccable honesty, going above his obligation as viceroy and personally overseeing every sale during the years of famine. Although his behavior went above and beyond, as Torah Jews we can certainly use Yosef’s yashrus as an inspiration for our own business dealings. In this shmuz, Rabbi Shafier discusses some common pitfalls that can occur when in the workplace or handling money, and has a sobering message for those who think they could never be guilty of gezel.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

How could Dovid HaMelech, a man of towering spirituality, learning, and devotion, fall so painfully? In this gripping class, Rabbi Shafier unpacks one of the most troubling episodes in Tanach, revealing how even the greatest among us are tested precisely at their weakest point. Through the story of Dovid and Batsheva, he explores the nature of the yetzer hara and the role of the Soton as a master strategist, tailor-making challenges to each person’s vulnerabilities. With clarity and depth, Rabbi Shafier shows that this isn’t a story of failure alone, but a timeless lesson in self-awareness, humility, and the absolute necessity of turning to Hashem for help. Honest, sobering, and deeply relevant, this class offers essential tools for recognizing temptation before it takes hold, and for rising stronger when we are tested.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why do our best attempts to correct others so often make things worse? In this powerful class, Rabbi Shafier explores the “righting reflex”, the instinct to fix what we see as wrong, and reveals how it’s rooted in a deep inner conflict that began with Adam’s sin and continues to shape our struggles today. Through the lens of the Derech Hashem, Rabbi Shafier offers practical, sometimes uncomfortable exercises that retrain the mind and heart to think and feel correctly, shifting the focus from fixing others to refining ourselves. Insightful, honest, and deeply practical, this class invites you to rethink personal growth and makes a compelling case for why real change starts within. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

In this week’s parsha, Rashi explains how the lives of tzadikim, beloved to Hashem, are described in detail in the Torah. This is in contrast to reshaim like Eisav whose lives are not dwelt upon. Rashi compares the reshaim to ‘rocks’, something that is discarded when searching for a gem in the sand. The implication is that a life of evil is as worthless as a rock. What is the value of a human life? Although the chemical composition of man is worth little more than $980, in the Torah’s eyes, a life is invaluable. But are you living your best life? How can you be sure you’re not ‘living like a rock’, going through the motions of life but not adding anything of lasting value? Your potential in ruchnius is unlimited. You are a neshama with infinite potential. This shmuz will give you the focus you need to ensure your actions are purposeful and your life is one of meaning.   This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Hashem is Here Yaakov walked with Hashem. He achieved an enviable closeness with Ha Kodesh Baruch Hu, understanding that He is present and involved in every aspect of creation. How can you integrate this truth into your own life? How can you speak to Hashem and really feel that He’s listening, that He’s real and right here with you? In this hands-on shmuz, Rabbi Shafier presents you with an irresistible idea on how you can reach incredible heights in your own avodas Hashem. He also gives you three actionable suggestions on how to improve the quality of your davening and provides plenty of chizuk to get you started.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

We learn in this week’s parsha that Yaakov Avinu was saved from Lavan’s murderous intentions in the merit of his hard work. Not because of his unfathomable yiras shamayim, not because of his avodas Hashem, not because he was the son of Yitzchak and the grandson of Avraham. Hard work. Something we can all relate to. Something that occupies many, many hours of our time throughout our lives. Why does Hashem see work as such a zechus? Why weren’t we created with our needs easily met, allowing us to focus purely on mitzvos and limud haTorah?In the Merit of Work unravels how the everyday challenges of the workplace are no accident. Those late paychecks, irritating colleagues and daily grind are all designed to test us, strengthen us and move us forward in our ruchnius. This week, discover how your workplace can become the perfect place for spiritual prosperity and growth. Your nine to five will never be the same again.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

By the age of fifteen, Eisav had already killed a man, lived with a married woman, denied the Torah and renounced mitzvos, techias hameisim and olam haba. Devoid of morality, it seems puzzling that he was so careful to honor his father Yitzchak. In this captivating Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier tackles the subject of appreciation. Tune in to discover why kibud av was so instinctive to Eisav, how we can get better at it in our own lives and why hakaras hatov is our ticket to a meaningful life.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

In this unmissable Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier delves into the ultimate tafkid of Sara Imeinu. Despite her incredible accomplishments, we can learn from the Chumash that her role was primarily to become the mother of Am Yisroel through Yitzchak Avinu. For your own life, this delivers some powerful lessons-the futility of comparing yourself with others, the fallacy of judging those around you and the freedom to accept the stage of life that Hashem has placed you in.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Akeidas Yitzchak. An event that continues to shape the Jewish People, giving us endless zechuyos and molding our collective character for all time. What sets the Akeidah apart from, l’havdil, some of the death cults of our enemies? What was the purpose of the test? Why was Avraham’s response so mind blowing? And why is it not considered Yitzchak’s trial as well?The Anatomy of a Nisayon provides the answers to these questions, as well as an encouraging analysis of the purpose of your own challenges. In this Shmuz Rabbi Shafier explains his practical, three point survival guide, giving you much needed clarity, chizuk and understanding to withstand the darkest moments of your life.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Avraham Avinu lived through a world aflame. There was idol worship-lots of it. An attempt to burn him alive by a ruthless despot. And let’s not even talk about what was happening in Sedom… Amongst this darkness, Avraham was a source of unrelenting light to humanity. Through his incredible acts of loving kindness, he courageously rebuilt a broken world. Please join Rabbi Shafier on this thought-provoking Podcast, where he takes a deeper look at the inspirational chesed of the Avos.   This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

You know that there are unhappy situations that cannot be changed. Sometimes, there are no easy solutions and you’re forced to live with the reality that Hashem has given you. When you’re confronted with a challenge, you’re given a choice: accept the master plan or cause yourself endless suffering. How do you make the decision that can lead to more happiness? How can you learn to let go of the hurt and anger you may feel deep inside? In the final class of the Pursuit of Happiness series, Rabbi Shafier offers a fresh direction in strengthening your emunah and bitachon for when you need it most.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Consider this: The Seforno says, “In the beginning” means at the very first moment of time itself. But if Hashem existed before that, how could time have a beginning? It's a good kashe, no? In this short but powerful shiur, Rabbi Shafier untangles this question with an astonishing message for your own life. Not sure what your purpose is? Struggling to find meaning and direction? Even if you're not beating back the voices of self-doubt and existential dread, you'll find plenty of interesting ideas and encouragement in this 15 minute Shmuz.  Listen now. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Give Elsie the cow a field and some grass, and she’s happy. Completely content. But Man doesn’t work that way. No matter what a man has, he is always aspiring for more- looking for a better deal, a bigger house, a more fulfilling career. It seems that man is never satisfied. In this shiur, Rabbi Shafier discusses why it is that Hashem made us crave more, and how we can use this desire to achieve real fulfilment.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

I recently discovered an incredible chiddush in the Pele Yoetz. It’s to do with the soul of man. High-falootin’ concepts not for you? Keep reading. It’s totally relatable. The Pele Yoetz tells us that there are ‘seasons’ to the soul. Meaning, there are times when it’s just easier to feel happiness…or to experience genuine yiras shomayim…or even feel an overwhelming, deep love for Hashem. And this is not just for tzadikim. You don’t need to be on some incredible madreiga to tap into this force. So how do we do it? How can a regular Jew experience an awe-inspiring, life changing Rosh Hashanah? Listen to this electrifying Shmuz to find out.   This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Ever felt like you wanted to: Make more time for important relationships Get healthy Do real teshuvah… And then, three months later: Whaddaya know, date night got pushed off...again The treadmill became a coat stand Um kavannah is still a major challenge?? And you wonder, ‘what on earth happened to my resolve? My commitment? My burning desire to change? Is there any hope for me and my ruchnius?’ In this transformative Shmuz, join Rabbi Shafier as he shows you how to convert your dreams into definable goals. You see, motivation isn’t enough. For eternity, it’s what we do with it that counts.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Now that Elul’s here, there’s no more excuses. You need to get real with yourself about who you are- a powerhouse of unlimited potential and strength, capable of achieving genuine greatness in this world and the next. Too harsh? Sounds like the other guy? You’re wrong. Watch this Shmuz and be convinced that you really are awesome.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

If you think that the path to spirituality is upon a mountain top subsisting on only bread and water, you’d be wrong. Hashem has filled this world with enjoyment-He wants you to find satisfaction in His creation. In this shiur, Rabbi Shafier makes the case for experiencing the joys of this world, and shows you how to use those pleasures to become closer to Hashem.  This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate