Best Chassidic Joy Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 94: The Forgiveness Experiment: A Conversation with Yisroel Bernath” 1:05:43

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19d ago1:05:43

1:05:43

In this episode of A Positive Podcast, Raizel Schusterman sits down with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath to explore the transformative power of forgiveness. Drawing from his new book The Forgiveness Experiment, Rabbi Bernath shares insights, stories, and practical tools that help us understand why forgiveness is so essential for healing and growth. Together,…

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Episode #93 -"Beyond the Pain: A Chassidic Perspective on Suffering" 1:16:05

2M ago1:16:05

1:16:05

In this thought-provoking episode, Raizel Schusterman sits down with educator and author Shterna Ginsburg to explore a timeless truth: while pain is an inevitable part of life, suffering is a choice we make — and one we can transform. Through the illuminating lens of Chassidus, they unpack how our perspective shapes our experience, why hardship doe…

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20. How Did Rebbe Shimon Come into the World? 42:05

2M ago42:05

42:05

Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai didn’t just appear—he arrived, against all odds, as a soul born of impossible tefillos and impossible beginnings. In this stirring Lag BaOmer teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz channels the fiery words of Rav Elimelech Biderman, uncovering how Rebbe Shimon’s birth was not just a moment in time but a statement from Heaven: Am Yisrael …

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19. Do You Want the Lollipop or the Crown? 25:00

2M ago25:00

25:00

Lag BaOmer marks a shift from the sweetness of redemption to the maturity of purpose. Rav Shlomo Katz brings Reb Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev to the center of the circle, showing how our journey from Egypt wasn’t about fireworks—it was about getting to Sinai. Are we still chasing the lollipop of past miracles, or ready to wear the crown of where we’r…

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18. As Rebbe Shimon Began Revealing the Secrets of the World 49:53

2M ago49:53

49:53

What filled the room the moment Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai began to ascend? In this luminous Lag BaOmer teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz brings us into Rashbi’s final hours where fire returned, the Shechinah hovered, and the secrets of creation began to flow. As tzaddikim from Gan Eden filled the space, only a few were allowed to stay. Why? Because being pre…

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17. Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai and I 43:05

2M ago43:05

43:05

Why do I, today, have any connection to Torah, to mitzvot, to Yiddishkeit at all? In this soul-stirring Lag BaOmer teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz reveals the secret behind Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai’s audacious promise: that Torah would never be forgotten. Through the words of Rebbe Nachman and the fire of Rashbi, we discover that our very longing to stay …

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16. Rebbe Akiva & The Hidden Heart of Lag Ba’Omer | 7 minutes of Halacha and Pnimiyut 7:01

2M ago7:01

7:01

Why does Rebbe Akiva, the great teacher of Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai, seem to vanish from Lag Ba’Omer? In this powerful reflection, Rav Shlomo Katz uncovers the silent, burning presence of Rebbe Akiva—the tzaddik who rebuilt from unimaginable loss. Beyond the bonfires and dancing lies a deeper flame: the strength to start again when all feels lost. R…

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15. Fire, First Haircuts, and the Flame of Kavod | 6 minutes of Halacha and Pnimiyut 6:42

2M ago6:42

6:42

Why do we light bonfires on Lag Ba’Omer? Why do children receive their first haircut at Rashbi’s kever? In this soul-stirring teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz unpacks the fiery legacy of Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai—whose final moments were surrounded by literal flames and eternal light. From the passion of Torah to the holiness of our first mitzvahs, this epi…

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14. The Cave, the Fire, and the Cost of Truth | 8 minutes of Halacha and Pnimiyut 8:43

2M ago8:43

8:43

Why did Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai retreat to a cave, and what does that story demand of us today? In this 8-minute teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz unpacks the holy defiance of Rashbi: a man who refused to compromise, whose words scorched falsehood, and whose cave became a furnace of Torah. As Lag Ba’Omer approaches, we’re called to examine our own idols of…

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13. When a Soul Marries Heaven | 6 minutes of Halacha and Pnimiyut 6:03

2M ago6:03

6:03

What makes Lag Ba’Omer a celebration, not a eulogy? In just six minutes, Rav Shlomo Katz uncovers the mystery of Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai’s final day—not as an end, but as a wedding. From the fire that surrounded his home to the secrets he revealed only on his last breath, we enter the deepest joy of closeness: רוחא ברוחא, soul to soul. It’s a day w…

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12. Preparing for Lag Ba’Omer’s Light | 7 minutes of Halacha and Pnimiyut 7:06

2M ago7:06

7:06

In just seven minutes, Rav Shlomo Katz weaves halacha and inner world—charting the shift from mourning to joy on Lag Ba’Omer. Why did the students of Rebbe Akiva stop dying? What changed on this day? With depth, warmth, and a nod to Rashbi’s eternal light, we explore the halachic roots and spiritual awakening that makes Lag Ba’Omer a gateway from g…

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11. Rebbe Shimon's & Rebbe Nachman's Responsibility 52:06

2M ago52:06

52:06

What does it mean to take responsibility for the eternity of Torah? In this Lag Ba’Omer shiur, Rav Shlomo Katz brings us into the fiery soul-connection between Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai and Rebbe Nachman of Breslov. On the eve of Rashbi’s day, we uncover how these two giants bound by name, mission, and essence, shoulder the promise that Torah will ne…

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10. Lag Ba'omer: Holiday of the Humble Ones 37:54

2M ago37:54

37:54

In this soul-gentle teaching from the Chortkover Rebbe, Rav Shlomo Katz reveals the hidden healing of Lag Ba’Omer: a fire that humbles instead of burns. Through stories of tzaddikim and the senses they sanctified, what they saw, what they heard, we learn how Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai continues to refine us. This is the holiday of the quiet-hearted, t…

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9. Meron Meets Uman | Rebbe Shimon & Rebbe Nachman 43:18

2M ago43:18

43:18

What happens when Meron meets Uman? In this Lag Ba'Omer shiur, Rav Shlomo Katz journeys into Rebbe Nachman’s opening words in Likutei Moharan, where the soul of Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai is revealed as the secret guarantor of Torah’s eternal fire. Through niggun, story, and soul, we uncover how these two tzaddikim are forever bound—lighting our path …

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8. Preparing for Rebbe Shimon | Look Into My Eyes 43:17

2M ago43:17

43:17

How does one arrive ready for Lag Ba’Omer? Rav Shlomo Katz, honoring his grandmother’s yahrzeit, draws from Rav Elimelech Biderman’s text to guide us. Like Shabbos, preparation unlocks Rashbi’s light. This lesson urges vulnerability—look into a friend’s eyes, embrace love—to reveal Torah’s secrets, weaving Am Yisrael’s souls into a radiant, unified…

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6. Rebbe Shimon with Aharon Hakohen 47:52

2M ago47:52

47:52

Based on the teachings of Reb Tzvi Meir Seilberberg, Rav Shlomo Katz stands humbled as Lag Ba’Omer nears, its vastness overwhelming yet holy. This lesson unveils a hidden Yom Kippur purification, linking Rashbi’s secrets to Aharon Hakohen’s hod—glory of love and unity. With niggunim, it whispers: one turn toward Hashem ignites your soul’s light, pr…

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7. Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai... Here We Come 16:36

2M ago16:36

16:36

A 16-minute journey begins—Rav Shlomo Katz invites us into Lag Ba’Omer’s magic from Eretz Yisrael. As half a million souls gather in Meron, this lesson unveils a secret gate: connecting to Rashbi’s spirit through his teachings, with niggunim guiding us. It calls for consistency in seeking Torah’s depth, awakening Am Yisrael to the day’s radiant mys…

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5. How did Rebbe Shimon Leave this World? 34:48

2M ago34:48

34:48

The Zohar whispers Rashbi’s luminous departure, a tale of secrets revealed as he left this world, preparing us for a deeper Lag Ba’Omer.By Rav Shlomo Katz

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4. Shouldn't Lag Ba'Omer Be More About Rebbe Akiva? 33:39

2M ago33:39

33:39

What is the nature of the simcha that dances on Lag Ba’Omer? Rav Shlomo Katz probes—shouldn’t Rebbe Akiva, whose students’ tragedy ends, shine brighter? Yet, Rashbi’s light ignites this joy.By Rav Shlomo Katz

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3. The Glow of Rebbe Shimon Bar Yochai 1:01:59

2M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

The sefira of the 33rd night of the Omer is Hod Shebahod—let’s unravel why. Rav Shlomo Katz honors his Holocaust-survivor grandmother on her yahrzeit, her triumph echoing Rashbi’s radiant promise. With niggunim, this lesson builds vessels for love and commitment, revealing Lag Ba’Omer’s glow—where secrets of Torah, spoon-fed nightly, awaken Am Yisr…

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2. Rebbe Shimon, How Do I Continue Your Promise? | Learning on Har Meron 41:14

2M ago41:14

41:14

Rav Shlomo Katz stands humbled in Meron, where Rashbi’s spirit whispers an eternal promise: Torah will never fade from Am Yisrael. Drawing from Rebbe Nachman through Rav Yaakov Meir Shechter, this shiur from 9 Tevet 5778 reveals speech as our sacred lifeline—holy words that pierce through the silence of galut. With niggunim echoing through the hill…

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1. How Much Do We Like Each Other? 33:46

2M ago33:46

33:46

Rav Shlomo Katz explores his personal connection to Lag Ba’Omer, overcoming intimidation of Rashbi and the Zohar. Based on Rav Erez Moshe Doron’s teachings, he delves into “anachnu b’chavivuta talya”—the power of liking each other—linking it to Rashbi’s legacy, the bonfires’ unity, and the sweetening of mourning. With niggunim, this episode ignites…

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4. A Besora from Heaven: A Message Before the Geulah 42:09

2M ago42:09

42:09

We revisit a remarkable farbrengen from Yud-Tes Kislev 5739 (1978), where the Lubavitcher Rebbe reveals the origins of Yud-Tes Kislev from a source that no one expected. What does it mean when a besora—a divine message, a good tiding—descends from heaven? How does it change our relationship to Torah, to redemption, to ourselves? Through niggunim, s…

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3. The Simcha of the Alter Rebbe 58:00

2M ago58:00

58:00

Rav Shlomo Katz leads a joyous Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen, sharing soulful niggunim and the Alter Rebbe’s letter on his release, capturing “the moment he was freed”. Infused with the “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidut’s” simcha, love, and emunah, this episode, filled with melodies like the three-part niggun of the Baal Shem Tov, Maggid, and Alter Rebbe, in…

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2. The Alter Rebbe's Instructions Regarding the Simcha of this Day 52:54

2M ago52:54

52:54

Rav Shlomo Katz shares a vibrant Baal Shem Tov niggun and the Alter Rebbe’s teachings in a lively Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen. On this “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidut,” the Alter Rebbe guides simcha toward humility, teaching, “Whoever is happy with my joy, I will take him from narrowness to expansiveness."…

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1. Tanya’s Gift to Humanity 32:05

2M ago32:05

32:05

Rav Shlomo Katz explores the secret of Yud-Tes Kislev’s power through the Tanya’s transformative wisdom. On this “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidut,” he reveals how the Alter Rebbe’s teachings unlock the inner Torah, guiding us to our soul’s purpose. “The completion of man’s purpose” shines through Tanya, illuminating a path from darkness to divine light.…

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Episode #92 - “Living with Joyful Presence: Tapping Into the G-dly Soul with Chaya Baron” 1:17:58

3M ago1:17:58

1:17:58

As Gimmel Tammuz approaches, Chaya Baron joins me for a soulful conversation on living with joyful presence. We explore how to connect to our Godly soul, bring more light into our lives, and feel the Rebbe’s guidance in a real and personal way. Raizel Schusterman is a certified Positive Psychology practitioner and ICF-certified life coach. Combinin…

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Episode #91 - “Building a Stronger Marriage: Tools, Tips, and Torah Wisdom with Rabbi Kass” 55:47

5M ago55:47

55:47

In this insightful episode, I sit down with Rabbi Abraham Kass, a seasoned marriage therapist and relationship expert, to explore the keys to building and maintaining a strong, healthy marriage. We discuss practical tools for better communication, deepening emotional connection, handling conflict with compassion, and keeping love alive through life…

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Episode #90 :Pesach Seder: Breakthroughs Instead Of Breakdowns 54:24

6M ago54:24

54:24

Episode Title: Pesach Seder: Breakthroughs Instead of Breakdowns For some, the Pesach Seder has been a difficult, challenging, or even boring experience. But what if it could be something more? In this conversation with my husband, Rabbi Schusterman, and Rabbi Shais Taub, we explore the deeper mindset behind the Seder—how to shift from feeling stuc…

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Episode #89: Unlocking Better Sleep: Insights from Sleep Coach Doron 52:59

6M ago52:59

52:59

In this episode of A Positive Podcast, I sit down with sleep coach Doron to explore the fascinating world of sleep. From understanding the science behind restful nights to uncovering the key factors that impact our sleep quality, Doron shares his expertise on how our habits, environment, and mindset play a crucial role. He also explains his approac…

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Episode #88 -Raising Boys and Teens in a Digital World: Guiding Parents Through inappropriate digital exposure, and Addiction 57:46

7M ago57:46

57:46

EPISODE # 88- "Raising Boys and Teens in a Digital World: Guiding Parents Through Porn Exposure and Addiction"In this episode, we dive into a crucial and often difficult topic: how to raise boys and teens in a world where pornography is so easily accessible. Dr. Shagalov joins us to discuss the impact of porn exposure and addiction on young minds, …

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Episode #87: “Unlocking the Mind-Body Connection: Miriam Brieger on the Sarno Method for Overcoming Pain” 48:11

8M ago48:11

48:11

Episode #87: “Unlocking the Mind-Body Connection: Miriam Brieger on the Sarno Method for Overcoming Pain” In this episode of A Positive Podcast, I sit down with Sarno coach Miriam Brieger to discuss how the Sarno Method can help individuals overcome pain by addressing the mind-body connection. Miriam explains how emotional awareness can alleviate p…

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Epsisode # 86 "Emotional Wellness According to the Rebbe: Exploring The New Book 'Letters for Life' with Rabbi Levi Shmotkin" 1:13:49

9M ago1:13:49

1:13:49

In this episode, Rabbi Nechemia Schusterman sits down with author Rabbi Levi Shmotkin to discuss his new book, Letters for Life. The book offers a profound look into the private correspondence between the Lubavitcher Rebbe and individuals navigating life’s challenges—heartbreak, loss, fear, confusion, and loneliness. Together, they explore the Rebb…

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Episode #85 "Failure to Launch: Understanding the Struggle and Finding a Path Forward" 55:18

10M ago55:18

55:18

In this episode, I sit down with Devora Shabtai, a seasoned therapist with extensive experience working with young adults facing the challenge of "failure to launch." Together, we explore what this phenomenon truly means, where it stems from, and how it impacts individuals and their families. Devora shares her wisdom on identifying the root causes …

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Episode #84 Marriage, Forgiveness & Moving on 1:01:34

1y ago1:01:34

1:01:34

In this episode, I sit down with marriage therapist Moshe Zev Lamm and my husband, Rabbi Schusterman, to explore the themes of marriage, forgiveness, and moving forward. Together, we discuss practical reframes and strategies for deepening relationships, fostering lasting love, and building stronger connections through the power of forgiveness. Whet…

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Gimel Tamuz Farbrengen With Tonia Chazanow 46:12

1y ago46:12

46:12

Part two: In this special episode, we sit down with Tonia Chazanow, host of the Human & Holy podcast, to discuss the significance of Gimmel Tamuz. We delve into her personal connection and relationship with the Rebbe, exploring what this looks like in today's generation. Tonia shares what makes this relationship unique and how she stays connected t…

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Gimmel Tamuz Farbregen with Rabbi Alter Bukiet 1:21:03

1y ago1:21:03

1:21:03

Part one: In this special episode, join me, my husband, and Rabbi Altie Bukiet, as we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the passing of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. We delve into Rabbi Bukiet’s personal experiences, his profound connection with the Rebbe, and the impactful shifts before and after this significant day. Tune in for an enlightening convers…

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“Marriage Matters: Keys to a Thriving Relationship with Dr Tamar Perlman “ 59:47

1+ y ago59:47

59:47

In this episode of "Marriage Matters," I sit down with Dr. Tamar Perlman, an esteemed marriage therapist, to delve into the essentials of building a strong and resilient relationship. We explore effective conflict resolution strategies, how to fight better, and overcome differences and challenges. Dr. Perlman shares her expert insights on enhancing…

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"Unpacking 'Why the Kids Aren't Alright': with Dena Schusterman & Dena Gorkin 1:42:06

1+ y ago1:42:06

1:42:06

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the complex world of contemporary youth, inspired by Bari Weiss's discussion with Abigail Shrier on why today's kids are facing unprecedented challenges. With a keen eye on the issues presented and a heart towards understanding them through the lens of Torah and Chassidus, we embark on a journey of e…

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"Wisdom in a Nutshell: Life, Marriage, Parenting, and Raising Teens with Rabbi Aron Moss" 57:31

1+ y ago57:31

57:31

In this episode, Rabbi Moss shares his profound insights on navigating life's most intricate facets: marriage, parenting, and the tumultuous journey of raising teenagers. With a remarkable ability to distill complex questions into concise, actionable answers, Rabbi Moss provides listeners with invaluable wisdom and clarity. From unraveling the myst…

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Episode #65 "The Soulful Synthesis: Exploring the Intersection of Chassidus and Psychology with Devory Nussbaum" 59:24

1+ y ago59:24

59:24

Join us in this fascinating episode where we explore the deep connections between Chassidus and psychology. Devory Nussbaum, a skilled psychotherapist and Chassidus teacher, guides us through the intersection of these two worlds. Together, we unravel the wisdom of Chassidic teachings and how they relate to our everyday experiences. Discover the com…

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Episode #64 - “Special Minds, Sensitive Hearts” Living a wholesome life while being “different” 1:51:43

2y ago1:51:43

1:51:43

“Special Minds, Sensitive Hearts” living a wholesome life, while being “different“Rabbi Shais Taub's Journey into NeurodiversityIn this compelling episode, join us as we sit down with Rabbi Shais Taub to delve into the intricate landscape of “neurodiversity” AKA Being different/sensitive/special. Together, we explore the journey of parenting childr…

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Episode #63 "From Laughter to Light: Zeya's Journey to Becoming a Chabad Chassid" 1:13:07

2y ago1:13:07

1:13:07

In this insightful episode, join Zeya Comedy on a heartfelt and humorous exploration of her personal journey to embracing religious life as a Jewish woman and becoming a Chabad Chassid. With a unique blend of comedy and sincerity, Zeya shares the twists and turns of her spiritual path, discussing pivotal moments, challenges, and the joy she found i…

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Episode #62 “Voices for Israel” - with Chaya, Gali & Menachem 53:04

2y ago53:04

53:04

In this compelling podcast episode, I engage in a meaningful dialogue with three dedicated individuals from the impactful company Charidy. As a powerful tool for marketing and fundraising, Charidy enables organizations to create platforms for crowd-sourced funds, ultimately amplifying their ability to make a significant difference. One of my guests…

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Episode #61 -Voices For Israel - With Adele of Life's Looking Good 50:48

2y ago50:48

50:48

Welcome to a special edition of our podcast, "Voices for Israel." In this unique series, we're stepping away from our usual themes like mental health, parenting, marriage, and self-improvement to focus on a matter of great importance – the situation in Israel. We understand this shift in content might be unexpected, but the current situation in Isr…

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Episode #60 "Voices For Israel" with Bruria Efune 51:48

2y ago51:48

51:48

Welcome to a special edition of our podcast, "Voices for Israel," where we're shifting our usual focus to bring you something incredibly important to all of us. Typically, we explore topics like mental health, parenting, marriage, and self-improvement. However, for the next two episodes, our hearts and minds are united in thinking about Israel, a s…

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Episode #59 -"Navigating the Storm: Parenting through the crisis in Israel & Finding connection with G-D amidst chaos" 58:55

2y ago58:55

58:55

In this special episode, we delve into the complex landscape of parenting during a time of crisis in Israel. The first conversation features a parenting coach Mushka Gopin of https://mymotheringmindset.com/ where we discuss how to address the current situation with our children and guide them through these challenging times. As well as how we can h…

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Episode #58- "Celebrating Yomtov : A Journey from Resentment to Joy” 1:32:22

2y ago1:32:22

1:32:22

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we embark on an insightful journey through the rich tapestry of the Jewish month of Tishrei and all of the yomim tovim. First I sit down with Mrs. Shterna Ginsburg, a mentor and teacher. She passionately discusses the beautiful ways in which we can help ourselves reframe and reset ourselves in order to sho…

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Episode #57- "Anxiously Acing School: Insights from an Educator and a Therapist" 1:29:37

2y ago1:29:37

1:29:37

In this compelling episode, we delve into the complex issue of school-related anxiety in students, featuring in-depth discussions with a seasoned teacher educator Mrs. Esty Kugel, and a compassionate therapist Katherine Beattie. Together, we explore the various facets of anxiety that students may encounter during their educational journey and provi…

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Episode #56 - Navigating Residential Treatment Programs: Insights from Devora Shabtai LCSW 1:04:15

2y ago1:04:15

1:04:15

In this episode, I sit down with Devora Shabtai LCSW and we delve into the world of residential treatment programs. Devora sheds light on what these programs entail and she dispels common misconceptions. We explore the goals and dynamics of these programs, offering valuable insights for individuals and families seeking effective rehabilitation solu…