The Shmuz

151

Bereishis: The Moment Before Time Began

Oct 16, 2025

15:54

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

152

Your Attitude is Your Reality

Sep 30, 2025

1:00:58

Thoughts lead to feelings. But it’s not so easy to change your thoughts. Even if you are leading a life filled with purpose and meaning, negative thought patterns can hold back your happiness. Rabbi Shafier offers practical guidance from a Torah perspective in this indispensable class. 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

153

Teshuva Shmuz 5786: Erase the Past Without Erasing Yourself

Sep 29, 2025

1:10:10

If you’re ready to shake off the dust of inertia and start acting like a tzelem Elokim, listen to this year’s Teshuvah Shmuz! 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

154

Rosh Hashanah Shmuz (The Sugyah)

Sep 21, 2025

58:32

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

155

Only the Good Die Young

Sep 17, 2025

58:04

A response to tragic events. 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

156

The Pursuit of Happiness: I Love Money!

Sep 15, 2025

50:08

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

157

The Shmuz on the Parsha: Nitzavim: Preparing for Rosh Hashanah: How to Feel Awe-Inspired, Motivated and Ready for the Yom Ha Din

Sep 14, 2025

59:53

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

158

The Shmuz on the Parsha: Ki Savo: Maintaining the Motivation: How to make moments of inspiration turn into lasting change

Sep 11, 2025

1:05:12

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

159

3 Ways to Transform Your Tefillah Before Rosh Hashana

Sep 10, 2025

35:46

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

160

The Pursuit of Happiness: Think Rich

Sep 9, 2025

57:00

We’ve become numb to the abundance that surrounds us-and even though we live better than Kings, we’re still unhappy. This shiur will teach you how to really enjoy our modern day luxuries, feel truly rich and lead a life of joy.  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

161

Elul Shmuz: Guilty Anonymous

Sep 4, 2025

1:03:55

The shame and blame game is not the voice of the yetzer tov. Listen to this compelling Shmuz and learn how to move forward constructively, even if you think you're unforgivable. 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

162

Ki Seitzei: My True Potential

Sep 3, 2025

59:47

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

163

The Pursuit of Happiness: Pleasure Can Be Holy

Sep 2, 2025

51:08

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

164

Elul Shmuz: Am I the Person I Dreamt of Being?

Aug 25, 2025

1:02:54

In this unnerving Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier gives you a much needed pep-talk prior to the Yomim Noraim. Lacking motivation? Here’s your chance to get in a better place before Yom Kippur. Your battles are your jewels for all eternity, let’s use the month of Elul to face them head on.   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

165

The Pursuit of Happiness: Pleasure

Aug 25, 2025

39:44

We run after pleasure-whatever hits the spot for us, we indulge in it, spend money on it and wish for more. But what happens when your normal pleasures can no longer satisfy you? If you’ve ever over-indulged and regretted it, this shiur is for you. Rabbi Shafier clearly explains the role of pleasure in your life, and how to have it without the guilt.  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

166

Parshas Shoftim: The Tiny Giant Called 'I'

Aug 28, 2025

53:50

You want to be confident...but not arrogant. You want to work on your personal development, but cheshbon hanefesh is demoralizing. You know Hashem gave you talents and abilities- but are you ‘allowed’ to feel proud of your achievements? There are many contradictions when it comes to working on yourself, your middos and your self esteem. This Shmuz will help you discover the golden middle way within yourself:  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

167

Re'eh: If Hashem wants me to be happy, why am I so broke?!

Aug 19, 2025

1:02:58

I say every morning ‘sheasah li kol tzarci’- Hashem, You have provided me with all of my needs. Three times a day I remind myself that You open Your hand and satisfy every living thing with its desire. I know You want me to be happy, to enjoy Your world, to keep mitzvos and do Your will...so if that’s the case, WHY AM I SO BROKE? In this week’s Shmuz on the Parsha, we will take a closer look at this apparent contradiction. Listen now and learn how to: Free yourself from the unhappiness caused by unfulfilled desires Start really enjoying the good things in life Handle every nisayon like a baal bitachon and get more resilient to life’s challengesEven if you’re more comfortable than Jeff Bezos, you’re going to find this week's Shmuz very relevant.   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

168

The Pursuit of Happiness: Are You Happy?

Aug 18, 2025

43:23

Despite living in the relative luxury of the first world, many people feel as though their life is mediocre at best, and downright miserable at worst. In his introduction to The Pursuit of Happiness, Rabbi Shafier begins by challenging the listener to self-reflect on their own satisfaction with life, and offers some new insights as to what being ‘happy’ really means in our society.  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

169

Make Marriage Great Again: Reconnect Ramat Eshkol

Aug 14, 2025

1:14:38

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

170

Special Event: Dating and Marriage Panel with Rabbi Shafier, Dr. Lieberman and Rabbi Epstein

Aug 12, 2025

1:48:30

LISTEN TO THE FULL VIRAL DATING & MARRIAGE PANEL , from Yad L'Achim's Tu B'Av Together Truly life changing advice.  Featuring: * Dr. David Lieberman * R' Reuven Epstein * R' Bentzion Shafier 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

171

The Pursuit of Happiness: Tools for Life

Aug 3, 2025

39:27

Join Rabbi Shafier as he unveils Chazal’s ancient secrets on how to attain true happiness: - Learn how wider society bombards you with messages that bring you down, and what you can do to protect yourself - Stop the negativity, resentment and jealousy with a powerful shift in perspective - Gain practical strategies to move past negativity and into 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

172

The Pain of Hashem

Jul 28, 2025

50:25

During the period of the Three Weeks we are urged to awaken ourselves to the horrifying and the heartbreaking. The moments of our existence as a People that bring us to tears and make us long for the geula. In this moving shmuz Rabbi Shafier encourages you to look at your greatness and your failings, including your own misconceptions of the nature of Hashem and the purpose of suffering.  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

173

Tisha B'Av: A Broken World

Jul 27, 2025

1:05:09

Remember when we had to watch a ton of Holocaust movies to feel any stirring of emotion on Tisha B’Av? Remember when we had to drag ourselves out of our pampered comfort zones to think about what it must have been like to suffer at the hands of the Romans? It wasn’t easy to imagine what a dangerous, frightening, unpredictable world meant. Is it still hard? I don’t think so. Even the sceptics agree with the Chofetz Chaim ztl, who said before Moshiach comes, it will feel like the world is spinning faster and faster and faster. When will it stop?  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

174

The Shmuz on Parashat Matot-Masay: How to Protect Your Most Treasured Connections

Jul 24, 2025

56:45

Have you ever heard the three rules of criticism? Don’t do it Don’t do it Don’t do it Ok, everyone knows how it feels to be criticized. Everyone agrees that it’s damaging to our most precious relationships. Some people have lived under the shadow of criticism their whole life, and have the arduous task of trying to rebuild their self-esteem and confidence. So if it’s so incredibly obvious as to why we shouldn’t do it- why do we? In this week’s Shmuz Live, I’ll be deconstructing the science behind the scorn, and give some real-life, practical advice on how to overcome this destructive habit.  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

175

Moshiah- What's In It For Me??

Jul 18, 2025

1:42:55

This Shmuz will bring home the relevance of The Three Weeks and how to bring Hashem into your life once more.  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

176

Pinchas: How to Restore Balance, Focus and Meaning to Your Life

Jul 15, 2025

56:56

In this week’s Parsha, Pinchas is given the bris shalom after defending the honor of Hashem. The Seforno explains that as a result of this gift, Pinchas was granted longevity, a natural consequence of living ‘at peace with himself’. Unfortunately, the feeling of contentment and inner calm is something that alludes most of us. Four hundred years after The Seforno’s commentary, modern medicine also discovered the inherent link between the mind and the body, and we are now all familiar with how a person’s emotional state can impact his physical health. Something people often say is that they know they should lead healthier, more balanced lives, but aren’t sure where to start. How can I restore an equilibrium between my inner conflicts and desires? How can I achieve peace within myself? And how can I stop myself being so stressed out, even when I know it damages my immune system and makes me miserable and tired? As always, the lessons of the Parsha offer us all a startling perspective on how we can make lasting changes to improve our lives, get healthy and enjoy our time in this world.  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

177

What Happened to My Bitachon?

Jul 10, 2025

50:00

Bitachon can’t be learned from a book. You can learn the theory, get a grip on the fundamentals of your hashkafa and think you know that you trust in Hashem. But until you are really tested, you have no idea whether our bitachon is real or not. Being naturally optimistic or anxious isn’t an indication of where you’re holding in bitachon-that’s nothing more than a reflection of your personality. To acquire genuine bitachon is a growth process, an emotional reality that goes beyond an intellectual understanding. In this candid shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explains ‘what happened to my bitachon’ when you find yourself in a difficult situation and suddenly discover that you don’t have so much menuchas hanefesh afterall. How can you make what you learn a real part of your emotional reality? Listen to this shmuz and get the tools to see Hashem in your life and bring theory into reality.  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

178

Foundations Class 6

Aug 13, 2025

36:54

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what. 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

179

Foundations Class 5

Aug 6, 2025

40:15

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what. 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

180

Foundations Class 4

Jul 30, 2025

40:45

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what. 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

181

Foundations Class 3

Jul 23, 2025

42:08

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what.  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

182

Foundations Class 2

Jul 16, 2025

37:46

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what.  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

183

Foundations Class 1

Jul 9, 2025

45:49

You’re a ma’amim. You believe in Hashem, you believe in His Torah. But you’d probably like to get better at trusting in Hashem, right? That’s why you listen to shiurim, that’s why you’re reading this page. You might wish that you could be like the Gedolim, instead of getting bent out of shape by every bill, scared by every news report, bothered by why so many things just don’t seem fair. If this describes something you’re familiar with, this Series is for you. Based on the Six Constant Mitzvos found in the Sefer HaChinuch, Rabbi Shafier blends timeless wisdom with actionable advice. You see, having rock-solid emunah isn’t only for tzadikim. It’s in the reach of us ordinary folks too. Start learning Foundations today and get ready to say hello to a calm, contented life- no matter what.  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

184

Short Shmuz on Bolok

Jul 8, 2025

33:03

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

185

Get Out of Debt

Jun 30, 2025

55:14

Practical and hashkafic tips on gaining control of your finances 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

186

Short Shmuz on Chukas

Jul 3, 2025

28:41

We see in the Torah that tefillah is powerful. Through tefillah, Sara Imeinu was given a child, a miracle like techiyas hameisim. Yishmael cried out to Hashem and was saved in the desert, despite his sins. But what gives your davening its incredible power? In this week’s Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier clearly outlines three fundamental ways your tefillah can change everything. Can your prayers make a difference even if you’re an ordinary person? Absolutely—every tefillah has an impact. But what about when someone can’t daven, like a person in a coma, chalila? How do your prayers help them? This class will show you how effective you can be in helping others, and inspire you to daven with more kavannah and understanding. Listen to this Shmuz for encouragement and direction on how to pour out your heart, change your life, and tap into one of the greatest forces in existence.  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

187

The Mussar Vaad Perek 2 Class 2: Functional Intelligence

Jun 30, 2025

41:35

Is it enough to be smart in this world? We are all in danger of going through life just ‘spinning our wheels’, being ever so busy and yet failing in our potential. It’s a scary concept, and one that Rabbi Shafier addresses from a relatable perspective. In the second shiur of the second perek, Rabbi Shafier shows you how to live with more awareness and make the most of your years here.  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

188

How to Balance Your Bitachon With Histadlus

Jun 23, 2025

58:13

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 frum Jews, we are also meant to internalize that Hashem is directly involved in our own lives and knows what is best for us. Too many of our problems in bitachon stem from thinking 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

189

Korach: Don't Trust Your Brain

Jun 22, 2025

41:01

We tend to think that our brain is our best friend- we rely on our thoughts to discern right from wrong, good from bad and truth from falsehood. So what happened with Korach? How could he be driven to stage such a catastrophic rebellion? The answer is that your brain is a handmaiden to your ego. It’s not always your friend. Listen to this Shmuz to protect yourself against making crazy decisions and gain a deeper insight into who you are.  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

190

Rabbi Shafier's Message on Iran

Jun 20, 2025

1:11

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

191

The Shmuz on the Parsha: Shelach

Jun 20, 2025

1:09:46

Tested to the MAX!   The Shmuz on the Parsha is scarily relevant this week: What to do when your bitachon is tested to the max.   We’ve all got ‘stuff’. Baggage. Nisyonos. Ballistic missiles ist We all need a Torah perspective to know how to respond to both major world events as well as the everyday traffic of life. 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

192

Behalosecha: People Skills

Jun 10, 2025

54:45

Getting along with people is an essential life skill. Satisfying human relations are key to thriving in the workplace, developing friendships, having a loving marriage and raising happy kids.Because people skills are so fundamental, this week's Shmuz offers something unique: a mini-course in social relations. With these basics under your belt, you’ll become more than just well-liked; you’ll be more effective in achieving your goals.  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

193

Hashem Loves Me More Than Me

Jun 5, 2025

43:33

You know that you’re meant to serve Hashem out of joy and love. How can you do this if you don’t really feel it? What should you do when you know you should be grateful, but your life is plagued with difficulties and it’s hard to feel Hashem’s love? Join Rabbi Shafier as he tackles this question head-on in an incredibly encouraging and inspiring Shmuz.  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

194

Parshas Naso- I Never Do Anything Wrong

Jun 4, 2025

1:06:59

How fragile is your ego?  We are all familiar with people that have a hard time admitting they could be wrong. No matter the misdemeanor, never mind the evidence in front of them, they refuse to acknowledge the facts and stick to their story as if their very lives depend on it. Unfortunately, this quirk is not just limited to hardened criminals and pathological narcissists. Within all of us is the overwhelming desire to protect our ego and soothe our sense of self. It’s very unpleasant to admit we could be wrong. Unpleasant and humbling. Ultimately, our very purpose on this planet is to work on our middos and become the very best version of ourselves. And that version includes being truthful. It includes courageously learning humility. And it includes developing the psychological fortitude to be ok with being wrong.  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

195

Embracing Pain and Suffering

May 29, 2025

39:36

The Chovos HaLevovos (Shaar HaBitachon) explains that one of the basics of our belief system is, “You can’t harm me; you can’t help me.” Everything is decreed by HASHEM. Every ounce of suffering, every event that is to befall a person is all decided, defined and directed by HASHEM Himself. No human being can inflict damage to me that wasn’t already decided by HASHEM. With this cognition comes a deep understanding: the doctor isn’t the determinant of whether I live or die, the threat isn’t the failing economy, and the danger isn’t man. All humans are powerless to affect my destiny. And all along, I am always safe and sound, guarded and protected.  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

196

At the Foot of Har Sinai: Part Four

May 27, 2025

1:14:13

From the moment the Jewish People arrived at Har Sinai, it became a frightening and awe inspiring experience. Why did Hashem want to evoke fear into us? If this was to be the wedding between Klal Yisroel and the Ribbono Shel Olam, shouldn’t it have been music instead of thunder and lightning? Rabbi Shafier explains that the purpose of the fear was to drive home the message of responsibility. By accepting the Torah, we not only had the power to change the world, the very existence of the world became dependent on us. Because of matan Torah, Klal Yisroel is now responsible for energizing both the physical and spiritual worlds. What an awesome achariyus!   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

197

The Shmuz on the Parsha: Bamidbar: Making Peace With Yourself

May 26, 2025

57:06

Comparison and judgment are part of the human experience. Subconsciously or not, we are constantly asking ourselves, am I and my family acceptable in society? Where do I rank, compared with my peers? For some of us, our very sense of self is intrinsically linked to how we think others see us and where we think we’re holding in the competition of life. The problem is, we hardly ever pause to consider what our ranking will be in the World to Come. And the scary part is that many of us will, after ad meah v’esrim, be embarrassed by our shortcomings. You see, we are in competition. But the competition of life is between me and myself. Join Rabbi Shafier as he delves into how you can succeed in accomplishing your own ‘personal best’, one step at a time.  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

198

Behar-Bechukosai: Why the Jews?

May 22, 2025

1:16:00

Throughout history all things change: except for anti-Semitism. Is there a Torah perspective that can explain why the Jewish nation is so tortured and oppressed? If we accept that Hashem is in control of everything, is there a reason why His nation, the Chosen People, are so downtrodden? Are there forces involved that control the very destiny of Klal Yisrael? In this previously recorded Shmuz Live, Rabbi Shafier explores some of the underlying causes of Jew hatred and what messages you can take from current events.  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

199

At the Foot of Har Sinai Part 3

May 18, 2025

58:24

Let them become holy. The command that has echoed throughout our history and enjoins us to be separate and unique, a beloved holy nation that will forever stand apart. But how special can I be, when I’m just one out of seven billion people on this planet?In the third class of the series, Rabbi Shafier empowers us to recognize our inherent closeness to the Ribbono Shel Olam. When we fully internalize that whatever we experience, Hashem experiences as well, we gain a glimpse into His love for us and His belief in us. Those that stood at Har Sinai saw with complete clarity their unlimited ability to achieve, to grow, to accomplish. We have the same power within us. By tapping into the messages of Shavuos, we too can learn how to unleash our potential and can continue the year with a renewed sense of energy and purpose.  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

200

Learning to Love Hashem (Shmuz #253)

May 15, 2025

1:02:59

This Shmuz is the ultimate ‘pick me up’. From the wonders of Creation to Hashem’s intimate involvement in our lives, Rabbi Shafier gives chizuk, inspiration and clarity on our purpose in this world. Listen to this to learn how wonderful it is to be alive.  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

The Shmuz

More by Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier