Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

Unlock the secrets to building more meaningful relationships as we explore the profound Jewish teachings on the value of honor. This week, we are guided through the wisdom of our sages, revealing how self-respect paves the way for honoring others and why it's essential in every interaction we encounter. From the touching stories of Rachel and Leah to the instructive plight of Rabbi Akiva's students, we traverse ancient narratives to unearth the timeless principles of dignity and mutual reverence that can transform our everyday lives.

Our conversation extends beyond the historical, discussing practical ways to uphold respect in modern contexts. Through a candid chat with my daughter about the subtleties of offering guidance, we tackle the challenge of correcting others with kindness and the importance of preserving their honor. Rabbi Eliezer's teachings remind us to tread cautiously with our friends' honor, as it could very well be the key to unlocking a better future - for them and for us.

Finally, the episode culminates with a reflection on the exceptional privilege of studying Torah, sharing a personal revelation from my rabbi, Rabbi Shlomo Arieli Shlit"a, about the magnitude of this gift. He imparts how understanding our unique opportunities can lead to a deeper appreciation for life, inspiring us to extend respect and dignity in our relationships. Join us for this heartfelt episode as we carry the message of gratitude and self-recognition into a week brimming with potential for inspiration and fulfillment.

This episode (#264) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Sawa Mirwis and Ahuva Wolbe and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on  February 21, 2021, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 1, 2024

When Rabbi Chaim Kramer humorously likens his birthday to the infamous date of the Hiroshima bombing, it sets the stage for an episode filled with both lighthearted moments and deep spiritual insights. Our esteemed guest, a central figure in the Breslov Hasidic movement, takes us on his personal odyssey from a modern Orthodox upbringing in Brooklyn to the heart of Breslov philosophy. His tales weave through his early years, his transformative encounter with Rabbi Tzvi Aryeh Rosenfeld, to the leap of faith that saw him transition from electrician to influential Yeshiva teacher and founder of the Breslov Research Institute.

As Rabbi Kramer unfolds the fabric of his life, we traverse the realms of his time at the Mir Yeshiva, the annual pilgrimage to Uman, and the poignant topic of Holocaust remembrance. He shares the critical need for education on the tragedies that befell our community, stressing the importance of Holocaust awareness within the fabric of our Jewish identity. With a passionate discourse on Shabbos observance and its role in our spiritual journey, Rabbi Kramer calls upon us to reignite our connection to our heritage and divine love. This episode is more than just a reflection on history; it's a gateway to understanding the vibrant tapestry of Breslov Hasidism and its place in contemporary Jewish life.

Welcome to another Sunday Special of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast! In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks with Rabbi Chaim Kramer, noted scholar, author, lecturer and founder of Breslov.org. In this incredible episode Rabbi Kramer shares his riveting life story and a few really fascinating details for personal growth. I hope you enjoy! 

This episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #263) is dedicated in honor of Rabbi Chaim Kramer!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B on June 14, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 31, 2023

Embrace the transformative power of willpower and steer your life towards greatness with the insights from our latest Mussar Masterclass installment. As we navigate the complexities of 'Ratzon', the Hebrew term for willpower, we unveil its critical role in personal growth and the pursuit of our highest virtues. Through the amusing tale of an Amish boy's first encounter with an elevator, we introduce the concept of willpower as the driving force behind meaningful change. Taking cues from Talmudic wisdom and the teachings of the Zohar, we dive into the foundational idea that skill is secondary to the unwavering commitment that fuels success across various fields of endeavor.

This episode takes you on a journey through the spiritual dimensions of desire, where words spoken with intention have the power to create guiding angels. Exploring the weekly Torah portion, the profound lessons of the prophet Bilam, and the insights from the Ben Yahoyada's commentary on the Talmud, we discuss how our deepest drives influence the path of our lives. By aligning our will with divine aspirations, we can transform our spoken words into actions that echo in the heavens, bringing us ever closer to the Almighty and overcoming negative traits that hinder our progress.

Concluding with the concept of spiritual alignment, we share the essential key to realizing our deepest ambitions: connecting them with a spiritual purpose. Whether it's wealth for charity or the pursuit of knowledge without financial worry, when we tether our desires to a higher goal, we unlock a boundless potential within ourselves. As you join us on this soul-stirring exploration, we invite you to reflect on your intentions and consider how infusing them with spiritual pursuits can lead to a life filled with fulfillment and extraordinary achievement.

This episode (#262) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on July 11, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 27, 2023

Unlock the secret to sustainable personal growth as we delve into the Mussar tradition's guidance for taking small, meaningful steps towards self-improvement. This episode of Mussar Masterclass offers a treasure trove of insights from Proverbs to the Talmud, emphasizing the crucial aspect of respecting our natural limits. By learning from the simplicity of a child's learning process to the discipline of Daf Yomi, you'll come to appreciate that it's the effort and persistence in the small actions that count, not just the end results.

Our conversation takes a turn towards the power of determination and unity, where I share personal stories of triumph over doubt through learning to ride a unicycle or mastering the drums. We explore how even the act of conducting an orchestra can teach us about the harmonious effort required in life's pursuits. The narrative is woven with practical advice for everyday life changes, inspired by "Atomic Habits", ensuring this masterclass is not just theoretical but a practical guide for anyone looking to make a positive change.

To round off our session, we reflect on the metaphor of the ramp leading to the Temple Altar, which represents our own ascending journey of growth—one that's continuous and uniquely tailored to each individual. Through a blend of ancient wisdom and modern strategies, this masterclass is a call to embrace the small steps that lead to monumental leaps in personal and spiritual fulfillment. Join us for an episode that's as enlightening as it is actionable, perfect for anyone on the path to becoming their most fulfilled self.

This episode (#261) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Dr. Harvey Rosenstock and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on July 25, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 25, 2023

Unlock the secrets of leading a stress-free life with the transformative wisdom of Judaism that we've unearthed in our latest episode. Prepare to enrich your understanding of perspective and trust in God, as we delve into the Jewish approach to fear and the Almighty's constant presence. We share the inspiring tale of Reb Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, bringing to life the Jewish community's profound devotion to Hashem and the meaningful traditions that define our observance of the sacred festival of Passover.

Experience the essence of Judaism in a conversation that goes beyond ritual, celebrating the intimate bond between God and His people. Discover how the Torah, likened to a cherished engagement ring, represents not only a set of commandments but a symbol of an everlasting covenant. Through our discussion, we explore how prayer and the joy of daily life can strengthen our relationship with the Divine, offering insights into how faith is deeply interwoven with love and commitment.

Wrap up your spiritual journey with us as we reflect on the power of prayer, especially when we intercede for others, and the refreshing vitality of the Torah. We share personal stories that highlight the importance of accountability, drawing parallels between life's ultimate scrutiny and the meticulous care we take in our everyday choices. Join us as we celebrate the joys of Jewish identity and the heartwarming connections fostered through our holidays, inspiring you to embrace a life filled with meaning and divine connection.

This episode (#260) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Dr. Howard Schreiber and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 21, 2021, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 25, 2023

Have you ever felt the electrifying jolt of understanding your life's purpose, or the daunting weight of uncertainty that clouds your days? Together we unravel the threads of Jewish thought to reveal how Yirah is not the shackle of fear we might assume, but rather a liberating force that awakens our appreciation for the present and the responsibility we carry for our deeds. The riveting saga of the Granat, a sage who leveraged a moment of profound insight to steer his life toward eminence, serves as a beacon for us all, challenging us to discern God's daily expectations.

Embarking on a personal quest for meaning can seem like navigating through an enigmatic labyrinth. Yet, as we converse about aligning our individual aspirations with divine will, we share how introspection can be our compass, pointing us to our God-given purpose by way of our innate talents and virtues. We also chew over the importance of established goals in charting a deliberate life course. A poignant tale of a Yeshiva's garden weaves together the mundane and the sacred, illuminating how everyday tasks can tether us to the Divine, offering solace and steadfastness in our pursuit of purpose. Join us on this soulful journey, and bring along your curiosity for a dynamic exchange with our audience.

This episode (#259) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Tzali & Sari Wolbe and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 14, 2021, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 24, 2023

Discover the power of fear and perspective in our spiritual journey. We'll show you how fear, or Yirah, is not the terrifying concept you think it is, but a profound understanding of our responsibilities in God's world. Drawing from the parent-child relationship dynamic, we illustrate the essential balance and clarity that should exist. We are reminded that "everything is in the hands of Hashem, except for fear of Hashem," emphasizing the need to utilize our ephemeral time on earth in fulfilling our divine purpose.

Ever wondered how to maintain a perspective that can change your life? Allow us to guide you on recalibrating your outlook and ambitions. We emphasize that every element in life can be a ladder to success once we grasp our role in this world. We dive deeper into the concept of Yirat Shamayim, or fear, and how it shapes our understanding of the world and our relationship with the Almighty. Expanding on the different forms of fear, their implications on our actions, and the importance of embracing life’s challenges, we shed light on this intriguing aspect of our spiritual journey.

In our journey towards self-improvement, identifying and prioritizing what truly matters to us is key. We'll help you understand how to recognize these priorities and set spiritual goals. Using a beautiful parable, we show how our actions can enhance and perfect our souls. In the final segment, we discuss the gift of the soul from God, and the opportunities provided to perfect and beautify it. Listen in and learn how establishing the right perspective can help alleviate worries and focus on the goals that truly matter.

This episode (#258) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Marshall & Doreen Lerner and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 11, 2021, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 18, 2023

Have you ever questioned what being proud of your heritage means to you? Being deeply proud of our Jewish identity is about celebrating and living by our values of unity, compassion, and generosity. We've seen these values come to life in the most challenging of times during the recent conflict in Israel. The inspiring tales of kindness we share in this episode are full of lessons for all of us. We marvel at the stories of individuals and businesses within our community who showed immense support for the IDF and their families, truly embodying Jewish pride and unity.

Let's take a moment to acknowledge the impact kindness has in our community and in our world. Jewish pride is not only about our history and culture, but also about our actions and our heart. We talk about the Washington DC Jewish march and the Siyum Hashas celebration, and how they exemplify this value of kindness. We also reflect on the work done by volunteer organizations - helping those in need, irrespective of their faith. As we wrap up, we invite you to virtually visit a hospital's Bikur Cholim room, a testament to Jewish generosity. It's these acts of compassion and kindness that truly define who we are, and that's the kind of pride we should carry and share with the world. Tune in, celebrate our Jewish pride with us, and let's continue to make this world a better place.

This episode (#257) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Michal Sara Polatsek and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 15, 2023

When my wife and I were expecting our baby, the joy turned into fear when we discovered our child had a rare condition. But, in the midst of despair, faith, prayer, and the strength of our community brought about an incredible miracle. Join me, as I recount this awe-inspiring journey, where our unborn child was healed and born without complications, a testament to the unyielding power of faith and prayer.

We also share the narrative of a premature baby named Yehuda Noach, and the unwavering faith through trying times in the NICU. Embark on this journey of recognizing the profound importance of gratitude towards Hashem for every moment of life. As we delve deeper into these personal stories, we take to reflecting upon the significance of acknowledging and appreciating every miracle - big or small. We invite you to join us in this enlightening discussion and carry with you a blessing - to feel and recognize the miracles in your life.

This episode (#255) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of our dear precious son, Yehuda Noach Wolbe! May Hashem continue to bless you with unbelievable success, health and happiness!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 7, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 13, 2023

Have you ever paused to consider the beauty inherent in responsibility, and the role it plays in our connection to the divine? Join us as we dive into the seventh installment of our Jewish Pride series. Today, we unpack the power and purpose behind the abundance of mitzvahs bestowed upon us by God. Through an enlightening interpretation of a Mishnah, we explore how these divine duties, much like the symbolic bar mitzvah, are not a burden, but a blessing and opportunity; a means for us to connect, purify and merit favor with the Almighty. Let's rejoice in this privilege as we further embrace our Jewish pride.

Look at any loving relationship, like that between a husband and wife. Wouldn't you agree there are countless ways to express their love for each other? Similarly, performing a mitzvah is not a single monotonous deed, but rather involves our mind, heart, body, and spirit. In this discussion, we invite you to accompany us as we dissect the fine layers of performing mitzvahs. Additionally, let's reflect on the true spirit of Chanukah, a beacon calling us to unity and love among the Jewish people. By spreading light and being an example of a God-like nation, we strive to show the world why we are God's chosen people. Embrace your Jewish pride because it's time to shine!

This episode (#253) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Rabbi Yaakov & Frumie Polatsek and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 6, 2023