All Episodes

August 3, 2025 37 mins
On this heartfelt Tisha B’Av episode of Torah with Simcha, we journey through tears, memory, and meaning—from the broken walls of the Beis HaMikdash to the open doors of a nursing home in Evanston.

Simcha shares a powerful reflection connecting Jewish historical cycles of exile with the modern-day kindness found in caregiving. At the center of this story is Dr. Lester Zeffren, a beloved family member remembered not just as a doctor, but as a true rofeh cholim—a healer of the sick, with a heart for family and for chessed. Through personal memories, humorous anecdotes, and stirring recollections of family sacrifice and legacy—especially that of Aunt Jean, who came to America under terrifying conditions—we uncover how traits of selflessness and dedication to others can pass through generations.

This episode also explores why Pearl of Evanston, a nursing facility that feels more like a home than an institution, may carry a spiritual legacy that echoes back to those who came before us.

We close with deep thoughts about the cycle of Jewish suffering in exile, the purpose of pain, and why the yearning for the Beis HaMikdash is as real today as ever.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/torah-with-simcha--4985090/support.
Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.

24/7 News: The Latest

24/7 News: The Latest

The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.