Belonging: A New Podcast from Congregation Rodeph Sholom NYC

Jane Dystel’s journey is nothing short of transformative, from discovering her Jewish roots later in life, to becoming a beacon of community and support at Rodeph Sholom. Tune in to hear how Jane, despite not growing up with a religious foundation, embraced her faith through her marriage and son's involvement in Jewish traditions. Her story is a testament to the power of finding one's place and the importance of fostering...

Rachael Evans' inspiring journey to belonging unfolds in our latest episode, as she goes from a girl enchanted by dance in a Christian studio to a pivotal figure at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Her move to New York, fueled by an unwavering belief that she belonged there, was fraught with challenges. Yet, an unexpected audition at a synagogue opened doors to lifelong friendships and a role as Chief of Staff and Operations, provi...

Lisa Timmel's unexpected journey from the bustling world of theater to the serene gardens of Central Park offers a narrative rich with transformation and authenticity. As a renowned dramaturg, Lisa found the courage to pivot towards a life that truly resonated with her values and passions, illustrating a heartfelt quest for self-belonging. With Lisa, we uncover the layers of her spiritual journey, from her Catholic upbringing ...

Join us as we unravel the remarkable journey of Risa Schessel, who galvanized her sense of gratitude and Jewish identity following a health crisis. Risa's early years were shaped by constant relocations and a distant connection to her faith, but her path took a fascinating turn during her time at the University of Texas and her involvement in a Christian sorority. Her story takes a transformative leap after she moved to New Yo...

What does it truly mean to belong, and how do personal hardships shape our sense of community? Join us as Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist Nick Fineman takes us on a journey through the highs and lows of his career in TV news. Nick's compelling narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a family legacy in media, where he determinedly carved out his own path despite initial struggles and recent personal losses, including...

What if the power of community and dedication could shape generations? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Richard and Barbara Lustig, pillars of Congregation Rodeph Sholom. With Richard's family ties spanning five generations and Barbara's four, their story is one of legacy, love, and devotion. From their meeting at a CRS Purim Carnival to 64 years of marriage, their shared commitment to nurturing and inspirin...

What if the stories we tell could bridge divides and foster a deeper sense of belonging? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Neal Shapiro, a veteran journalist with experience throughout the media industry, as he candidly shares his journey through Judaism and journalism. From facing anti-Semitism in Albany to his impactful role at ABC News during historic events like the Falklands War and Watergate scandal, Neal's s...

In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a heartfelt exploration with Nikki Fisher,  a veteran, mother, and leader in the Rodeph Sholom School community. Nikki shares her journey from growing up in Chicago and Toledo, to the structured ranks of military life, and the continuous battle with racial and gender expectations. This candid conversation will leave you with a profound appreciation for the nuances of belonging and inspire...

In today's episode, we speak with Jack Levitt, a cornerstone of Congregation Rodeph Sholom.  Growing up navigating the vibrant streets of New York's West Side, where the shadow of World War II loomed, Jack's narrative intertwines with the city's heartbeat and shows that in the face of global and local fractures, the role of the synagogue emerges as a sanctuary for solace and connection. With wisdom and warmth, h...

In this latest episode, we had the privilege of engaging in an enriching conversation with Lloyd Moore, the Deputy Director of Security at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Lloyd shares his journey, from his early days as an NYPD officer to becoming a beacon of safety at CRS. Throughout the episode, Lloyd shares heartfelt stories, rooted in hard work and human connection, that paint a vivid picture of his lifelong quest to cultivate warm...

Our latest episode features this esteemed honorary trustee and beacon of  Congregation Rodeph Sholom, Mary Harkavy. She unravels tales of her lifelong quest for belonging and the profound impact of forging strong relationships within the synagogue. Mary's reflections on her service, the importance of listening to younger voices, and her role in sustaining our shared heritage, offer a treasure trove of wisdom for nurturing a vi...

When the echoes of a family's past shape the present, the tapestry of life becomes rich with stories of resilience and belonging. Dr. Walter Weiss, lovingly known as Wally, joins us to unravel his parents' gripping escape from Europe during the Holocaust, weaving a narrative that has profoundly influenced his own life journey—from the sacredness of his synagogue to his esteemed career in medicine. His reflections are a po...

In a compelling narrative that interweaves personal history with the universal quest for belonging, Jessica Politis's story unfolds as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of community support. As a cherished member of the Rodeph Sholom community, Jessica recounts her family's migration from the Soviet Union to New York, offering listeners a portrait of liberty, the pursuit of dreams, and the em...