The Jewish Growth Podcast

Mishlei teaches us that we “may not forsake the Torah of our mother.” According to our rabbis, “our mother” refers to the Jewish people. In this episode, we delve into the significance of this received tradition, that has defined Jewish life from generation to generation.

The Torah presents holiness as a common a comprehensive calling for the Jewish people. What does holiness, or sanctity, have to do with our happiness? What, according to Judaism, leads a person to happiness?

While speech and expression are vital parts of our lives, a Mishna sheds light on the power of silence.

Several months after Rosh HaShana, we begin Nisan which is called “the first of months.” This month of spring is a reminder that renewal and rejuvenation are possible even months into our year. Renewal is a powerful Jewish strength that comes to the fore at this auspicious time.

Rebrand and Renewal - Jewish Link article

Megillas Esther teaches us timeless lessons about the opportunities and limitations of interpreting the events of our lives.

The construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) raises questions about what it means to dedicate physical space to HaShem. As individuals, how do we bring God’s presence into our world?

In today’s episode, I share my journey with GTD (Getting Things Done) and how it led me to a deeper Jewish question: what is Shabbos?

It’s common in our times for people to self-identify as “spiritual but not religious.” This includes many people who firmly believe in the existence of God, though they are not affiliated with a religious group or organization. Many seek spirituality in places outside of religion.

What does it mean to be spiritual as a Jew? How do we connect the moving spiritual moments we experience, to a life of Mitzvot?

The example of Moshe teaches us to run after each member of HaShem’s flock, as we seek them out in the places that they are found.

Congregation Sons of Israel (in Manalapan NJ) updates our name to include the entire children of Israel, as we strive to create an eternal legacy.

What I learned from my real-life encounter with Michael & Summer Dawson PLUS: who is the suffering servant of Isaiah 53?

From the days of Yosef and Yehuda to the Maccabees to our own time, the legacy of the Jewish people is all about walking in the path of truth.

Our fathers and mothers received new names in watershed moments that helped define their life trajectory forward. How can you connect with your name in your struggles today?

Today, it’s possible to walk in the Biblical heart of Israel where our forefathers and mothers walked and lived. But what does Genesis teach us about the most difficult problems that face us in the land of Israel today?

Avraham’s prayer for the wicked city of Sedom depends on the presence of a “Minyan” of Tzaddikim (righteous people).  A deeper look at this moment sheds light on the importance of community for our spiritual health.

Avraham left Charan and followed the word of HaShem without knowing his destination. How does Avraham’s path guide us to move forward in life, amid doubt and uncertainty?

The Hebrew Bible gave the world a radical idea: God, not flesh and blood, is the true king. When we reject cults of personality and center our lives around HaShem, we bring blessing into the world.

How can we bring this big idea of HaShem as our king into daily life?

A new Torah reading cycle is a time to consider a learning opportunity that is accessible for every Jew.

Sukkot is a time to consider the real struggle between Israel and the nations, and how that struggle plays out in our lives.