The Shema Podcast

101

Gaining Clarity of Purpose Through Antisemitism with Rabbi Raphael Shore

Dec 1, 2024

51:10

In this episode, we are joined by Rabbi Raphael Shore to discuss his new book, Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Jew?. Together, we explore the lessons and clarity it provides about our purpose and responsibilities in the world as Jews by understanding the reasons behind the hatred directed toward us.Buy the Book: Learn more about Rabbi Raphael Shore’s groundbreaking work, Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Jew? Learning to Love the Lessons of Jew-Hatred. Click here to purchaseHost a Screening: Bring Rabbi Shore’s film, Tragic Awakening, to your community. Click here for detailsJoin the Conversation: Be part of our growing community! Join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up ★ Support this podcast ★

102

Embracing Depth, Meaning, and Connection with Dr. Michael Milgraum

Nov 24, 2024

40:40

In this thought-provoking episode, we are joined by Dr. Michael Milgraum, a psychologist, poet, and child of a Holocaust survivor, to explore the profound depths of Jewish identity and spirituality. Dr. Milgraum shares his journey from secular upbringing to a life rich in Torah and observance, weaving together his professional expertise in psychology with the timeless lessons of Judaism. We discuss the struggles and joys of faith, the role of emotion in mitzvos, and how Jewish resilience counters modern challenges. Dr. Milgraum’s poetry illuminates the intersection of spirituality, trauma, and human connection, offering inspiration for anyone seeking purpose and meaning in a complex world.To order Dr. Michael Milgraum’s books, click the links below:To Seek a Larger Spirit: Reflections of a Jewish PsychologistWritten Upon Our SoulsNever Forget My SoulJoin the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

103

Judaism is NOT about Tradition!

Nov 13, 2024

26:33

In this podcast, we dive into Fiddler on the Roof to examine how its portrayal of "tradition" and Jewish identity mirrors a broader historical struggle within Judaism. Set in the fictional shtetl of Anatevka around 1905, Fiddler on the Roof follows Tevye, a poor milkman grappling with changing times as his daughters challenge age-old customs. More than a story of family and culture, Fiddler highlights a common misconception about Judaism—that it values tradition merely for tradition's sake. This misunderstanding, we argue, has shaped Jewish challenges and setbacks over the past 200 years.Join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

104

Plan B Soul Rectifications

Nov 10, 2024

32:45

In Mishnah Sanhedrin, we are taught that all of Israel has a share in Olam HaBa (the World to Come). But what about a Jew who does not engage in Torah learning or fulfill the mitzvos? How can they become a receptacle to exist in Olam HaBa without the proper soul rectification through Torah and mitzvos? In this episode, we explore the "Plan B" soul rectifications, and the various compassionate paths designed to guide each soul back to its divine source.Join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

105

The Spiritual Foundation of Physicality

Oct 28, 2024

57:59

Based on a request from members of the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group, this episode explores the spiritual foundation of physicality to deepen our understanding of the Jew’s role in the world and the purpose of Torah and mitzvos.Join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

106

Q&A in the Sukkah

Oct 22, 2024

1:00:02

In this episode, I requested questions from listeners that I could research and explore in depth. My guest and I sat in the sukkah as I provided answers to a variety of questions that I believe offer deeper insights into many areas of Torah and Jewish living. ★ Support this podcast ★

107

Defining G-d in the Sukkah

Oct 14, 2024

19:04

About ten years ago, the Pew Research Center found that around 85-90% of the global population believes in a deity. At first, this seems promising. But when you dig deeper and ask people to define the god they believe in, you often find that their conception is of a god that doesn’t truly exist. Disturbingly, many Jews share this misconception. In this episode, we explore the significance of the upcoming holiday of Sukkos and how it helps us understand the true nature of our Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★

108

Don’t be the 2nd Witness

Oct 10, 2024

28:06

In this episode we delve into the profound wisdom behind how Hashem orchestrates the world with flawless precision, balancing justice and compassion as well as the incredible role that each Jew plays in this divine system.Join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

109

Hashem is Our Shadow

Sep 27, 2024

21:08

In this episode, we explore the profound opportunities that Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur offers us—a chance to recreate ourselves and start anew, unburdened by the mistakes of the past. But there’s a powerful secret embedded in how Hashem responds to our pleas for forgiveness: it’s directly tied to how we treat others. Understanding this connection can set us on a path of extraordinary growth in the new year. Join us as we dive deep into this essential wisdom, offering insights that can transform your spiritual journey and personal growth.Click here to order Rabbi Yaakov Cohen’s book “The Jewish Guide to Manifesting; Based on Torah sources and wisdom.Also, please join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community by clicking the following link.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

110

Let’s Talk Politics

Sep 24, 2024

17:37

I typically avoid conversations about politics; however, given the gravity of the upcoming election and its potential impact on Israel, I’ve decided to break my usual practice and share my thoughts on the matter. Of course I am not referring to the US presidential elections but the election at Rosh Hashanah of Hashem vs. Amalek.Also, I recently started a Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community. Please join by clicking the link below so you can share your thoughts on episodes and suggest ideas for future topics. I would love to hear from you.Sign up Link for Shema Podcast for Perplexed WhatsApp Group Community ★ Support this podcast ★

111

A Message from Hashem to You with Jake Turx

Sep 15, 2024

1:53:17

What if I told you that the Creator of the Universe wrote a letter to comfort you during these challenging times since October 7th?In this episode, we're joined by Jake Turx, senior White House correspondent and chief political correspondent for Ami magazine, and a political contributor at Newsmax. Jake analyzes Sefer Ovadia, the shortest book in the Prophets section of the Tanach. Despite its brevity, it delivers a powerful message of divine justice and the fate of Edom.This is a message dictated by the Almighty to His prophet, Ovadia, 2,800 years ago, specifically for you today. ★ Support this podcast ★

112

Welcome to My Chanukas Habayis

Sep 12, 2024

47:30

I recently learned about the Jewish custom of Chanukas HaBayis, a ceremony dedicating a new home to Torah learning and mitzvos. It was suggested that I host this event in my new home. The celebration involves opening one's home to the community, sharing food and drink, and hearing words of Torah. I’ve invited an incredible lineup of rabbis: Rabbi Nagel, Rabbi Lazenga, Rabbi Cotlar, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, and Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe. But something still felt incomplete—I want you, my dear listener, to join us and be part of this special occasion. ★ Support this podcast ★

113

The Abnormally Rational Jewish Wisdom on Dating with Devorah Kigel

Sep 9, 2024

1:08:12

The foundation for the Jewish people to flourish and fulfill their sacred role in creation begins with building a marriage where the husband and wife can support each other in personal development and continual growth. Unfortunately, in the area of relationships between men and women, we have been deeply influenced by the other nations, and while these behaviors may be considered normal, they are actually irrational. In this episode, we are joined by Devorah Kigel to share Torah wisdom on this important topic. As a dating coach, Devorah has helped hundreds of women achieve clarity in their dating lives and marry Mr. Right. She's also an inspirational speaker and popular teacher, giving classes for over two decades.To learn more about Devorah Kigel, visit https://www.devorahkigel.com. To order her book Marry a Mensch: Timeless Jewish Wisdom for Today’s Single Woman, click here. ★ Support this podcast ★

114

The History and Resolution of Our Sibling Rivalry with Rabbi Ken Spiro

Sep 1, 2024

57:48

To understand the current state of Israel and the Jewish people, we must first explore our history, beginning with the formation of the Jewish people through Abraham. Significant events in history set the stage for future developments, and the conflicts between Isaac and Ishmael—stemming from Isaac’s birthright as the progenitor of the Jewish people—and between Jacob and Esau over the birthright have echoed through the ages. In this episode, Rabbi Ken Spiro helps us gain insight into our past, present, and future as we strive to resolve this long-standing sibling rivalry. ★ Support this podcast ★

115

Escape from the Exile of Edom

Aug 26, 2024

40:25

To understand the Jewish people's current situation in history, it's important to recognize the three exiles we've endured and the fourth exile of Edom we face today. This exile of Edom has been the longest and most challenging because it lacks a specific ideology, unlike the exiles of Babylon, Persia, and Greece. Instead, Edom represents a mental exile, influencing us through remnants of those past nations and, most importantly, discouraging Jews from asking questions. Discover how to free your mind and break free from the exile of Edom. ★ Support this podcast ★

116

Becoming a Jewish Rock Star featuring Peter Himmelman

Jul 18, 2024

1:01:11

While my guest on this episode is literally a Jewish rock star, he would still be one even if he had chosen a different profession. Listen in as we discuss how, when a Jew embraces their relationship with Hashem and His Torah, it does not change them; it simply allows them to actualize who they truly are and bring out their potential and unique creative nature to the world. When we align our spiritual selves with our physical selves, we can each achieve rock star status.To pre-order his new book, Suspended by No String: A Songwriter’s Reflections on Faith, Aliveness, and Wonder click here. ★ Support this podcast ★

117

Our Life is A Love Story

Jul 4, 2024

43:29

For Jews not born religious, we often share a common journey. Initially, we experience a honeymoon phase with Hashem, much like the Jews at Mt. Sinai. However, just as the Jews at Mt. Sinai faced 42 encampments or challenges after their first year with Hashem, we too encounter similar experiences that help us grow.In this episode, I share some recent challenging experiences and the lessons I've learned along the way. This episode is dedicated to Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Shea Lazenga, and Rabbi Lazer Brody for being in my corner of the boxing ring, offering their wisdom and encouragement as I prepare to fight my next round. ★ Support this podcast ★

118

Hashem’s Testimony to our Redemption with Rabbi Bucsko

Jun 30, 2024

55:38

Now that Shavuos is behind us, we find ourselves in a wilderness void of holidays to spiritually charge us, outside of Shabbos. We have Tisha B'av in August, and then Rosh Hashanah does not arrive until October. But this is not actually the case. We have the monthly holiday of Rosh Chodesh that, for many, goes unnoticed but is packed with incredible meaning. It is the mitzvah that Hashem gave to the Jewish people as the guardians of time. He placed control of time in our hands to remind us that we are in control of our redemption. Join us as Rabbi Bucsko reveals the depth of this monthly holiday and how we can embrace it to actualize our mission in the world. ★ Support this podcast ★

119

Grant us our Portion in Your Torah with Morty Roth

Jun 9, 2024

1:11:57

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with our special and beloved guest, Morty Roth, as we prepare for Shavuos by reflecting on what the Parsha of Bamidbar, which most often precedes Shavuos, conveys to us about how we can best prepare for our recommitment to the Torah at Shavuos and the wilderness we find ourselves in before the next Yom Tov of Rosh Hashanah. ★ Support this podcast ★

120

Reconciling the Paradox of Having Emunah While Praying For Needs with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

Jun 2, 2024

59:19

At the core of being a Jew is the belief that Hashem orchestrates every detail of our lives with love and for our ultimate good. This raises a fundamental question: if everything in our lives is already perfectly constructed by Hashem in that moment then why do we pray for things we feel we lack, if we are to believe that we everything is already perfect? In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe joins us to explore this apparent paradox. We delve into the relationship between Emunah (faith) and prayer and discuss the roles of segulos (spiritual remedies) and asking tzaddikim (righteous individuals) to pray on our behalf. ★ Support this podcast ★

121

Embracing Sacred Time with Rabbi Nagel

May 26, 2024

33:56

We all celebrate personal milestones like birthdays and wedding anniversaries throughout the year. Many of us are accustomed to measuring time according to the Gregorian Calendar, a man-made system, rather than the Hebrew calendar, which was established by the Creator of time. In this episode, Rabbi Nagel joins us to explore these important questions: 1) Should we acknowledge the Gregorian calendar? 2) How do we serve Hashem during these significant personal milestones in the year? 3) For those who have converted or are married to converts, how do we honor previous birthdays and wedding anniversaries that may seem less relevant post-conversion? Join us for an enlightening discussion on harmonizing these calendars and embracing these sacred times in our lives. ★ Support this podcast ★

122

Becoming a vessel to receive Torah, with Rabbi Buscko (Rebroadcast)

May 2, 2024

47:16

It is now the Counting of the Omer. These 49 days between Pesach and Shavous create a bridge that allows one to leave their mental restrictions and move towards a more expanded consciousness. In this episode, Rabbi Chaim Buscko breaks down for us how to tap into the spiritual energies now present. By doing so, we will forge ourselves into vessels that will allow us to absorb the wisdom of Torah and catapult us to a higher level of closeness to our Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★

123

Finding Our Freedom with Morty Roth

Apr 26, 2024

1:02:38

During our Pesach Seder, we recounted the story of our redemption, starting with our suffering in Egypt, leading to our cries to Hashem, and ultimately to Him guiding us to freedom. However, we must ask ourselves why He placed us in Egypt to begin with. What was it about our time in Egypt that was a necessary prerequisite to achieve freedom? What does freedom really mean? In this episode, I am absolutely delighted to welcome my new dear friend and Rabbi, Morty Roth, so he can share his deep insights into the answers to these questions.Morty Roth references several books during our conversation. If you are interested in obtaining these books I have provided links to where you can buy.Covenant & Conversation by Jonathan Sacks Pebbles of Wisdom From Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz ★ Support this podcast ★

124

And the Knowledge of Hashem will Flood the World

Apr 5, 2024

1:02:06

In our Tanach, Isaiah (Yeshayahu), describes that during the era of Moshiach, the earth will be as filled with the knowledge of Hashem, as the waters cover the sea. My dear friends and heroes, Bruce Licht and Ron Kardos, set out on an initiative to manifest this prophecy into reality. Their story and example are an inspiration to me and anyone who listens, to our responsibilities as Jews in this world. ★ Support this podcast ★

125

We Are All in Jewish Outreach Now with Tyler Scholl and Erica Harris

Mar 17, 2024

47:49

For millennia, the Jewish community has awaited the arrival of Moshiach, yearning for the Final Redemption and Hashem's ultimate revelation. Each day that this event does not unfold serves as a poignant reminder from our Creator that we, as a people, may not yet be prepared for such profound judgment. This shared spiritual destiny underscores a profound truth: we are intrinsically linked, rising and falling as one. Our collective responsibility to each other is both a privilege and a duty. In this compelling episode, we invite Tyler Scholl and Erica Harris to share their personal paths towards Torah observance. Their experiences shed light on the ways we can support one another in our shared mission to live up to the covenant established at Mt. Sinai. ★ Support this podcast ★

126

Finding the Hidden Sparks with Betty Givin

Mar 12, 2024

41:49

Aiding us in our endeavor to cleave to our Creator and continually ascend to great spiritual heights is the divine timeline throughout each year. In this episode we are joined by a dear friend, Betty Givin who recently published a book on this subject “Hidden Sparks – Beneath The Surface: An Inspirational Journey Through The Biblical Festivals.” Betty shares her insights for each auspicious time throughout the year and how we can each find our hidden sparks.Click here to order your copy of ”Hidden Sparks – Beneath The Surface: An Inspirational Journey Through The Biblical Festivals.” ★ Support this podcast ★

127

Creating a Mishkan within ourselves with Rabbi Daniel Cotlar

Feb 26, 2024

53:49

In the journey from Parsha Terumah to Pekudei, we are guided through the meticulous construction of the Mishkan— a sacred space that bridged the heavenly and earthly realms. While we long for the day the Mishkan will be physically reconstructed, our current diaspora challenges us to internalize this sanctuary, crafting a dwelling for the Divine within each of us. In this episode, we are joined by Rabbi Daniel Cotlar to share the Hasidic teachings that illuminate the path to embodying the essence of the Mishkan's components within ourselves. ★ Support this podcast ★

128

Building a Relationship between Emunah and Emes

Jan 29, 2024

36:49

In previous episodes, we've been charting a path through the stages of creation, starting from the initial desire of the Creator and then the Creation. The goal is to seek a deeper understanding of the significance of our current period of concealment and our role in the final revelation. To fully grasp this topic, it's essential to comprehend the connection each of us needs to establish between Emunah (faith) and Emes (truth). More succinctly, this involves our faithfulness to the truth. The final redemption depends on each individual building this relationship within themselves. ★ Support this podcast ★

129

Harnessing the Power of the Mind

Jan 9, 2024

41:34

Delving into the profound insights of Rabbi Akiva Tatz's "Living Inspired," this podcast explores the intricate workings of the human mind and its capabilities. We'll delve into how our mental faculties intertwine with our Neshama (soul) and true Daas (knowledge), providing listeners with a comprehensive toolkit for harnessing their mental power. This journey aims to empower individuals to bring their spiritually perfected selves into the physical realm, fulfilling their unique missions and potential. ★ Support this podcast ★

130

Cultivating the Garden of the Mind

Jan 1, 2024

41:32

In this episode, we delve into the profound impact our thoughts have on shaping our external world. Just like seeds that sprout and blossom, the notions we entertain in our minds can materialize into our physical reality. The role of the Yetzer Hara is to introduce detrimental, negative perceptions regarding ourselves, others, or various situations. If we dwell on these thoughts, it's akin to nurturing these seeds, allowing them to take root in our tangible world. I'll share a detailed routine and checklist I’ve been developing over the past year, aimed at ensuring one’s mind fosters only constructive thoughts. These thoughts are crucial in maximizing our potential in serving and loving Hashem with both aspects of our heart – the yetzer tov and the yetzer hara. ★ Support this podcast ★

131

There Can Be No Love without Fear

Dec 24, 2023

29:07

The concept that may be challenging for some Jewish individuals is the notion that in order to genuinely love Hashem, there must be an element of fear involved. In this episode, I delve into this subject by drawing parallels with the dynamics found in parent-child relationships and the bonds between spouses. My aim is to shed light on this topic in a manner that fosters a positive outlook and encourages the listener to embrace the commandment of fearing heaven and Hashem with a healthy perspective. ★ Support this podcast ★

132

Being a menorah with David Block

Dec 10, 2023

38:57

The annual Chanukah struggle endures for the Jewish people, representing our role as the illuminating force that communicates to the world the concept that nature serves as the garment through which our Creator engages with our reality, rather than an independent creation lacking a Creator. Contrary to the misconception that the Greek and Roman empires have ceased to exist, their ideologies persist as integral components of Western civilization, contributing to the exile experienced by many in the Jewish community today. In this installment, we are once again joined by David Block, back by popular demand, to explore how we can embody the radiant light of the menorah throughout the entire year, enlightening the world with the truth of our world and its Crea ★ Support this podcast ★

133

Our role in helping the IDF with Eytan Rund, IDF Intelligence Unit

Nov 16, 2023

51:46

We've dedicated numerous episodes to exploring our role as Jews in the spiritual struggle against evil. However, it's crucial to consider our hishtadlus (personal effort) in the physical realm of this battle. In this episode, we are privileged to gain insights from Eytan Rund, currently serving in the IDF's intelligence unit. He sheds light on our role and emphasizes the urgent need for Jews worldwide to contribute. Listening to Eytan has significantly altered my perspective on the current situation, and I believe it will have a similar impact on yours. If you're interested in supporting our IDF brothers and sisters engaged in a war that concerns us all, this episode is a must-listen. ★ Support this podcast ★

134

A Superhero Story featuring Evonne Marzouk

Nov 13, 2023

30:09

In the ongoing narrative of creation, now in its concluding chapters, the Jewish story is akin to that of a superhero. Ken Spiro, in his book "Destiny," highlights how the structure of any superhero tale mirrors that of the Jewish people. In this interview, I talk with Evonne Marzouk, the author of "The Prophetess." Through her novel, writings, and public speaking, she stands on the front lines, utilizing her extraordinary abilities in writing and speaking to evoke the hero within each of us.The present moment calls for us to embrace our unique strengths and encourage their emergence in our fellow Jews. By doing so, we can play our part in bringing the concluding episodes of the creation story to fruition, in alignment with the Creator's vision. Our collective aim is to rid the world of evil and restore it to a state of peace and harmony. This transformation will pave the way for the earthly realm to reflect the intended revelation of the Almighty, as envisioned from the outset of this grand narrative.Click here to order your copy of “The Prophetess,” by Evonne Mazouk in Kindle, Hardcover or Paperback. ★ Support this podcast ★

135

Stopping the fulfillment of a prophecy with Lieutenant Joe Mabry and Specialist Solomon Kullman

Oct 29, 2023

39:26

I initiated this podcast in 2020 after coming across a prophecy in the Zohar. It foretold a situation akin to how, during the Exodus, 80% of the Jews in Egypt were reluctant to join and preferred to remain in Egypt, ultimately leading to their perishing during the 9th plague of darkness. The prophecy suggested a similar scenario in the final redemption. However, when Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe enlightened me that negative prophecies can be averted, I made a commitment to play my part in reawakening Jews to the significance of their Torah and their pivotal role in repairing the world. In this episode, I am joined by two remarkable guests, Lieutenant Joe Mabry and Specialist Solomon Kullman, who are at the forefront of the effort to prevent the realization of this prophecy by guiding their fellow Jews back to Hashem and His Torah. ★ Support this podcast ★

136

Finding Connection in Ambiguity with Rabbi Pill

Oct 18, 2023

43:55

In previous episodes, I've discussed the idea that the purpose of Torah, mitzvos, and the various aspects of Halacha derived from the mitzvos is to expand and infuse into every facet of our lives, refining each moment into a binary choice to choose Hashem. However, this perspective is not entirely accurate as the realm of Halacha contains numerous uncertainties and consequently, divergent opinions. In this episode, I have the privilege of introducing you to the brilliant and insightful Rabbi Pill, who sheds light on the concept that those areas of ambiguity that Hashem deliberately wove into His Torah, serve as the very source of our most profound connection with Him. ★ Support this podcast ★

137

Seeing Holiness

Oct 13, 2023

24:33

Hashem created angles as purely spiritual and intellection beings, yet as static beings. He created animals simply that operate off instincts. Then He created mankind, the fusion of the two, so that mankind could choose to elevate themselves higher than an angle or devolve lower than that of an animal. After this last week of seeing evil men who have devolved precipitously below that of an animal, I wanted to give the listeners a way of seeing the other side of the spectrum in mankind. In this episode I allow you to see holiness. May it continue to flourish among the Jewish people until our holiness eradicates this evil in the world. ★ Support this podcast ★

138

Building Foundations with David Block

Sep 28, 2023

51:33

In this episode, we are honored to welcome David Block back to the show. Following our previous episode, where David shared his insights and questions, many of his family and friends have been curious about how to begin their journey with a few fundamental mitzvos. David and I delve into the motivations behind a Jew's desire to seek these recommendations, the fulfillment that mitzvos bring to a Jew, and the crucial bedrock for leading a life as a Jew with a deep connection to their Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★

139

Wielding the Sword of Prayer

Sep 14, 2023

22:30

In this episode, I delve into a profound teaching from Rabbi Nachman that underscores the importance of aligning our knowledge (Daas), compassion (Tiferes), and foundation (Yesod). This alignment serves as a powerful conduit for channeling blessings from Hashem into the world. It involves the skillful use of prayer, likened to a finely honed spiritual sword. These insights hold universal relevance and can guide us into the upcoming year, ensuring that you not only attract but also receive a bountiful supply of spiritual and material blessings for both you and your loved ones. ★ Support this podcast ★

140

Rosh Hashanah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team

Sep 7, 2023

1:16:48

Being invited to join the TORCH Roundtable alongside the esteemed Rabbi Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, and Rabbi Bucsko is consistently a profound honor for me. In this episode, our focus centers on the approaching Rosh Hashanah holiday. Once again, I had the privilege of gaining profound insights from these exceptional Rabbis regarding the rapidly approaching holiday. I enthusiastically encourage you to invest some time in listening to this conversation, as it promises to provide you with a similarly enlightening experience. ★ Support this podcast ★

141

Unifying K’lal Yisrael with David Block

Sep 4, 2023

45:40

In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming David Block, a fellow Torch Podcast listener who contacted me with a sincere desire to immerse himself in a Shabbos experience within our community. David's background is rooted in Reform Judaism, and he graciously shares his eye-opening experiences within our Torah-observant community, shedding light on some of the misconceptions he had about Judaism during his upbringing. David's aim is to impart the valuable insights he gained so that we may collectively move beyond the distinctions of Jewish denominations and foster a sense of unity among K'lal Yisrael. ★ Support this podcast ★

142

Creating Meaning from the Mundane

Aug 31, 2023

11:47

We need your help!! August is Podcast Improvement Month at TORCH ... Please help us improve at TORCHsurvey.comI have always struggled with moments in life where I had to wait, whether standing in a line, waiting in a doctor’s office or any situation where I felt like my time was being wasted. In this episode I share what I have learned on how to take these most mundane moments and transform them into the most meaningful moments of our life. ★ Support this podcast ★

143

Seeing Beyond the Veil of Nature

Aug 24, 2023

22:02

We need your help!! August is Podcast Improvement Month at TORCH ... Please help us improve at TORCHsurvey.comIn this episode, aided by the divine assistance of Hashem, I was able to realize my aspiration – one I previously discussed several episodes back – to recount moments when I perceived Hashem beyond the veil of nature. As I initially conveyed on an earlier podcast, drawing from the teachings of Rabbi Nachman, it is understood that the era of Moshiach will only manifest when we, the Jewish people, endeavor to inhabit this world with the mindset that His divine revelation is already here. ★ Support this podcast ★

144

Pregame Huddle for the Month of Elul with Coach Bucsko

Aug 13, 2023

46:51

We need your help!! August is Podcast Improvement Month at TORCH ... Please help us improve at TORCHsurvey.comDuring the month of Elul, the culmination of our efforts since our initial inspiration during Pesach takes root in our new foundation, becoming the platform for our next ascent to even greater achievements. This phase of the year marks an intimate connection with Hashem, who is readily available to guide us towards realizing our untapped potential. In this segment, we revisit the locker room with Coach Bucsko, as he readies us for the upcoming month of Elul and equips us with the strategies for success.This episode is in the merit of Yehuda Engelman, an exemplar of how to embody the principle of loving your fellow Jew as oneself. ★ Support this podcast ★

145

Knowing Your Story with Hashem

Aug 8, 2023

22:16

We need your help!! August is Podcast Improvement Month at TORCH ... Please help us improve at TORCHsurvey.comIn this episode, I recount a remarkable series of recent events that have imparted profound lessons on leading a meaningful and abundant life. My aspiration is that through hearing this, you'll feel motivated to share your own narratives with others. Each of us possesses a unique story, and by sharing it, we can ignite inspiration in others to do the same. Our current era, leading up to the arrival of Moshiach, is characterized by a heightened sense of Hashem's presence being concealed in the world. However, armed with Torah wisdom and the mutual encouragement we offer, we have the potential to transform this concealment into the most magnificent revelation of His existence. This is the mission of our generation—the catalyst for ushering in Moshiach. ★ Support this podcast ★

146

Pregame Huddle for the Month of Av with Rabbi “Coach” Buscko

Jul 18, 2023

41:20

Join us on this enlightening journey as Rabbi Busco educates us about the spiritual energy associated with the Jewish month of Av. We gain insights on how the events of each month, like the period of mourning during Av, reflect the spiritual energy it holds. Rabbi Busco helps us reevaluate our perception of Tisha B'Av, a time commonly associated with mourning and loss. We learn that it is an expression of love and should ideally be a time of celebration and joy, however our negative attitudes have distorted this, leading to mourning which is actually a recognition of the loss of God's presence in the world, brought about by our actions. This engaging discussion will make you see the importance of feeling the pain of being distant from Hashem, to tap into our souls and draw closer to him. Listen in as we decode this complex concept and be ready to transform your perspective on forgiveness, and love. ★ Support this podcast ★

147

If You Could Choose

Jul 2, 2023

19:35

Before my wife had her conversion roughly a year and a half ago, the Beis Din, had me go into the mikvah to have a conversion to remove all doubts. My great, great grandmother was born a non-Jew and adopted by a Jewish family as an infant and we wanted to remove any uncertainty on whether she was properly converted. For this conversion to remove all doubts to be effective, I had to contemplate that I was not a Jew and make the choice to remain a non-Jew or become a Jew. This was one of the most profound and important days of my life. In this episode I compare and contrast what those two paths look like and ask you the listener to contemplate being in a similar situation where you could choose. ★ Support this podcast ★

148

How About Them Apples?!

Jun 25, 2023

18:15

Being in a state of gratitude paves the way to experiencing joy and fostering a deep connection with Hashem. While it is so simple to achieve, it is so easy to forget, as the Yetzer Hara wants us to focus our attention on what we feel we are lacking. In this episode I share an experience that I like to reflect on regularly as it cemented into my mind the importance of being in a constant state of gratitude to our Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★

149

Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team

May 21, 2023

1:06:07

It is always such a great honor for me to be asked to sit at the TORCH Roundtable with the great Rabbi Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe and Rabbi Bucsko. In this episode we discuss the upcoming holiday of Shavuos. As always I learned so much from these incredible Rabbis and feel more prepped and excited to receive my Torah this Shavuos. I highly recommend taking the time to listen in on this conversation as you will feel the same. ★ Support this podcast ★

150

Serving Hashem in Adversity with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

May 7, 2023

40:23

I have done many episodes on the subject of how to serve Hashem in the business world and other situations that pertain to my life experiences. However, I realized that we all have different situations that we find ourselves in. One situation that I thought was imperative to address is the situations our fellow Jews face serving in the military. I asked Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, the Rambo of Yiddishkeit, to join us and share Torah wisdom to our brothers and sister in the military and as you will hear, this is valuable information for all of us. This episode is dedicated in the merit of my nephew Shlomo Ben Dovid and all our fellow Jews serving in the military. May Hashem keep them all safe. ★ Support this podcast ★

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