Bodies & Souls

How have women shaped the landscape of Torah learning throughout Jewish history? As Shavuos approaches, get ready to be inspired as we welcome Tzivi Greenbaum to share her historical insights on the profound impact women have had in Jewish learning and leadership.

Throughout our conversation, we journey through the lives of significant yet often overlooked female figures in Jewish history. We bring their stories to life with vivid anecdotes, underscoring the dedication and influence women have wielded within their communities. Join us as we celebrate the invaluable role women have played in sustaining and enriching Jewish life and learning, inspiring listeners to appreciate and continue their legacy. Don't miss this enriching conversation that celebrates the legacy and ongoing contributions of Jewish women throughout history.

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To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
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Have you ever considered that your greatest talents could be your most profound responsibilities? This thought-provoking idea is just one of the many insights shared by our guest, Esti Hecht. Esti sheds new light on humility, not as self-deprecation but as a recognition of our gifts destined for a higher purpose, and how this understanding can transform parenting, dating, and our everyday exchanges with others.

We also delve into the broader implications of humility in life's grand tapestry. Whether you're seeking a life partner, setting parenting goals, or striving for personal growth, this episode equips you with a compass to navigate the journey with grace and purpose. Join us, and embrace the art of humility to enrich your life's voyage.

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To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

Rivky Boyarsky and Dr. Sarah Markowitz, co-author of "Kosher ADHD," sit down for a heart-to-heart on the community-specific details of managing ADHD within the framework of our frum lifestyle. This episode blends personal narratives and professional insight, this episode gives individuals, parents, and educators tools and insight to navigate ADHD while embracing Torah values and hashkafic principles.

This groundbreaking book can be used both for neurotypical individuals and those with ADHD.  Dr Markowitz shares the hurdles and hopes of finding the right support for kids with ADHD, and shines a light on the importance of community engagement. This conversation isn't just for parents; it's for educators, healthcare providers, and anyone who believes in nurturing each unique soul in our community. Tune in to "Bodies and Souls" for an episode that doesn't just speak to the mind but also resonates deeply with the heart.

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To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

When Hadassah Zirkind, founder of A Drop of Light, shared her story with us, the conversation was charged with a raw, transformative energy that only true vulnerability unleashes. We journeyed together through her experiences with self-harm, suicide, and the relentless grip of mental illness—unveiling her unspoken battles with anxiety and depression, magnified by the trials of prenatal and postpartum changes. Hadassah's courage in seeking help and her resolve to foster candid conversations on mental health are paving a path of hope for caregivers, community leaders, and anyone touched by similar struggles. 

From understanding suicidal ideation to strengthening community connections, this episode stands as a beacon of support, an invitation to dialogue, and a testament to the strength that emerges when one dares to share their darkest moments in search of a drop of light.

For more information and resources, visit preventfrumsuicide.org.

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To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

Unlock the secrets to cultivating profound relationships and personal growth as we welcome Gila Ross, a dynamic Jewish educator and leader, to share her transformative insights from Pirkei Avos. Our engaging conversation delves into the essence of Pirkei Avos as a guiding force for nurturing meaningful connections, the core of Gila's book "Living Beautifully" and her podcast "Power Up." 

This episode illuminates the timeless value of mentorship through the lens of Jewish philosophy, and emphasizes the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive influences. We also explore the idea that everyone can act as a mentor, sharing even the smallest nuggets of knowledge. Whether it's prioritizing quality time with loved ones or fostering respect and forgiveness, this episode equips you with the tools to invest in the relationships that form the bedrock of our well-being and community. Join us for a journey into the heart of Jewish wisdom with Gila Ross, and let's power up our lives together.

To purchase Gila's book "Living Beautifully" click here: https://gilaross.com/book.
Use code bodiessouls15 for 15% off your purchase. 

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

When Miriam Raskin speaks about her journey, her words carry the weight of lived experience and the lightness of profound healing. Our latest episode is a heartfelt tale of her battle with eating disorders and the spiritual solace she discovered within the teachings of Chassidus. Our guest sheds light on the tightrope walk between maintaining control and succumbing to the chaos of life, which often manifest in one's relationship with food. From the quiet desperation of calorie counting to the academic and social hurdles that accompany such struggles, Miriam shares the details of her daily battles and eventual breakthroughs.

We celebrate as Miriam finds freedom through dance and the profound teachings of Chassidus. This episode isn't merely a conversation; it's an invitation to join a dance of joy and connection, to embrace one's unique journey, and to recognize that amidst the trials of life, there is a pathway to freedom paved with understanding, compassion, and the timeless insights of Torah and Chassidus. Join us and be inspired by Miriam's song of resilience and the harmonious chords of personal growth.

To reach Miriam Raskin, contact her on instagram @freedomdancer.

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

Have you ever felt the Pesach prep pressure weighing down on you, transforming what should be a season of spiritual renewal into a marathon of stress? Join Rivky Boyarsky, and the ever-insightful Malki Janowski, as we share stories and strategies for turning the tide and claiming back the joy of Yom Tov in our latest episode. Together, we discuss our attitudes towards holiday preparations, and how these can influence not only our own experiences but also those of the next generation. 

We tackle the real challenges of juggling the demands of Pesach with little ones in tow, and offer support to keep you connected amidst the bustling.  We explore the fine line parents walk when involving teenagers in holiday tasks, balancing the load while instilling a sense of responsibility. And, we acknowledge the beauty in letting go of the perfect Pesach blueprint. Whether you're a mother stepping away from the Seder to tend to a child or have a teenager home and are balancing the expectation of helping out with enjoying vacation, we emphasize the freedom that comes with embracing Pesach as it comes. So, pour a cup of something comforting, settle in, and let's rediscover the heart of Pesach together.

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

Embark on a transformative journey with Manya Lazaroff, a beacon of wisdom in the Jewish educational sphere, as she unfolds the tapestry of gratitude within our daily lives. Together, we unravel the intimate connection between thankfulness and personal fulfillment, traversing the terrain from familial bonds to the very essence of our purpose. Manya, a mother and seasoned shlucha, illuminates our conversation with heartfelt narratives, illustrating the profound shift in perspective that gratitude can engender, especially within the unique challenges of raising children in isolated environments and finding joy in simplicity.

Gratitude extends its roots deep into the human soul, touching upon our innate tendency to dwell on life's hurdles. Manya and I confront the daunting specter of toxic positivity, cutting through the facade to unveil the authenticity of genuine happiness. We dive into the mind's neurological landscape, where the negativity bias resides, and equip you with the tools to cultivate an intentional gratefulness that stands as a bulwark against the tumult of everyday chaos. Our dialogue bridges the gap between enduring Jewish traditions and modern mindfulness practices, fostering a sanctuary of appreciation that can weather any storm.

This episode is not just a mere reflection; it's a call to action, a blueprint for integrating gratitude into the fabric of our existence. Manya shares the subtle yet powerful impact of acknowledging the mundane, transforming routine into ritual and grounding us in the present moment. As we close, our hearts brim with the life-altering potential of these conversations, inviting you to embrace the promise that tomorrow can hold a new dawn of gratitude. Join us on this soul-stirring adventure, where we promise that the seeds of thankfulness we plant today will bloom into a future rich with contentment and grace.

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

In this episode, Rivky Boyarsky's mother, Etti Hahn, a Yemenite Jew, speaks to us about her childhood and the Yemenite community. We discover how an ancient community clung to their identity, and how each household kept their simple Emunah at the forefront of their existance.

The winds of change occurred with Operation Magic Carpet, a mission of both deliverance and upheaval. The journey of nearly 50,000 Yemenite Jews to their new home in Israel, is both a bitter sting of cultural shock and severed family bonds. It's a portrait of resilience too, of women who, though unable to read, were walking repositories of Minhagim and Torah.

While we grapple with the complexities of Operation Magic Carpet,  including the pain of searching for lost relatives, and the challenge of nurturing Torah values in an ever-changing landscape, we also speak about the anticipation for a future era of peace,of the faith we have in the coming of Moshiach.

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].

As we sat down with Reut Ben-Ishai, a school counselor from Petuel, we were struck by the palpable strength in her voice. With her husband and brother serving in the IDF, she embodies the spirit of an entire community living under the shadow of conflict, yet she shines with faith in Hashem and living for a purpose. 

In this episode, we explore the struggles of the wives of Israeli soldiers who light Shabbat candles with trembling hands, as they pray for the soldier's safety. As Reut shares, the individual stories of struggle are interwoven with a larger narrative of unity and hope. Join us as we embrace these lessons of unity and Emunah and the strong spirit of the Jewish nation striving toward Moshiach.

Support the show

To sponsor an episode of Bodies & Souls, email us at
[email protected].