Podcasts most popular in the United States●Judaism

There are so many Jewish personalities and big people in the world. They all have a story on how they became who they are today. Deep, unboundedly interesting, fun and uplifting, Meaningful People Podcast is a weekly opportunity for Nachi & Momo to talk to the Jewish world's meaningful people.

Release date: 2023-02-25

Comments

1. Thank you and important constructive critique - I have listen to basically all of your podcasts. They are very often insightful, inspirational, and informative. Thank you for all that you do. Recently, however, I listened to Rabbi Haimoff’s podcast. His his story was very moving, but there was one point that he reiterated several times that really bothered me. I too am a mother who lost a child. And I just want to say that I think it is extremely harmful to tell people generally that therapy does not work. Every person grieves differently, and every person needs different support systems in their lives. For some it is their family, their friends, or their rabbi. And yes, for others, such a loss demands consultation with a mental health professional, such as a therapist. I personally have found a therapist who has helped me through the hardest of times. I do not know where I would be without her. It is erroneous to say that therapist look to explain tragedies or solve your problems. That is completely incorrect. Therapist give you healthy tools to be able to manage and cope with your grief. It is extremely important that people hear this, so they do not feel there is a stigma behind seeing a therapist if they choose to do so. Professional mental health treatment, when done right, can enhance someone’s life and even save lives. It would be so important to get this message across to your many listeners. Thank you for reading this, and keep doing great work!
2023-02-23

2. Love your podcast! - I grew up in Yeshiva. I went to Ezra Academy. Rabbi Weinberger was one of my Rebbeim. I’m not religious. But I do believe in Hashem with my whole heart and I do pass Jewish values to my children. Your podcast is refreshing. You cover very in depth topics and mix in humor and keep it light and deep when it needs to be. Keep up your great work. Can you guys try to get Rabbi Weinberger of Aish Kodesh to do a podcast? That would be awesome!!!!! Thanks, Ben
2023-02-15

3. Wonderful - This podcast knocks it out of the park every time. The content is varied and interesting. The hosts are top notch and everything is done in a way that just seems right. There is no cutting corners, no controversy. Just really good content from a really genuine place. Thanks for bringing us good kosher entertainment that is not mind numbing. There are podcasts on here that make me cry, those that make me laugh, and those that make me really think. Just wanted to let you know that your work is really appreciated! Keep it up :) also especially loved the most recent one w Ari
2023-02-08

4. Great podcast! - My pre-teen/teen kids love to listen to this podcast, we learn something every time we listen! It gives them and me a broader perspective about Jewish life and opens our eyes to a new perspective/challenge in our own yiddishkeit! I’d love to have an old school way to access the podcast for my boys on kosher flip phones at Yeshiva ! Please let me know!!
2022-11-07

5. Amazing podcast - especially rivky morel - I enjoy all of the podcasts but I have to give a special shout out to the podcast with rivky morel- what a beautiful, honest and raw episode. I really appreciate when the people you’re interviewing are “regular” people living their daily life. Her story is beautiful and such an inspiration for all
2022-09-19

6. Best Jewish Podcast - This podcast deserves way over stars, but since that’s unavailable I’ll do with just for now I’ve been listening to this podcast for quite some time, and it never ceases to amaze me how Nachi and Momo always find relatable, inspirational, and meaningful topics to discuss. My favorite one so far was the one w Rabbi Bensoussan cuz hey, who’s not a Bensoussan fan Keep em coming, MM!
2022-09-18

7. Great podcast - Amazing podcast, I listen to it every week. No need to "double click" or "shout-outs" it's spoiling it, kepp it entertaining and mature. Thank you והוא ישלח במעשה ידיכם ברכה והצלחה. I'm changing my review to five stars. Thank you for improving the show. And now "bridge credit solutions" ad is a lot more tolerable. Thank you Momo!
2022-09-12

8. Super good like amazing - I love your podcast a lot even it gives me chizuk and then some more But here’s the problem I don’t have a smartphone on me all the time due the fact that my yeshiva doesnt allow it so I would appreciate if it would be on a phone number like you know inspiration for the nation has it on sry
2022-08-21

The Hebrew Bible is every bit America’s moral founding document as the Constitution is our political founding document. Every week, Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm, speaks with thinkers, writers, artists, and faith leaders to explore how the Bible continues to inform our lives today, from politics to psychology to pop culture, bringing Americans of different traditions and persuasions closer together as so much else threatens to pull us apart.

Release date: 2023-02-14

Comments

1. Vet your guests - I’ve been listening to this podcast for some time and it has truly opened my mind to a different faith from my own. I came to the podcast for this very reason: to learn and to grow, and to understand other viewpoints with an open heart. Listening to the most recent podcast, however, I was very disheartened to hear hostile rhetoric towards so-called “woke culture” which is at best ill-defined and certainly below any sort of scholarly interpretation. The interview in this episode devolved into very contemporary political speculation with regard to American history with no pushback from the host which led me to question whether I was listening to an unbiased podcast. Listen with an open mind but keep an eye out toward what is being sold to you.,
2023-03-01

2. Dennis D. Karpf - Rabbi Ari is a deep thinker. Support for G-dly belief in the public square of America is fundamental for a good society. No doubt secularism is corrosive. Yet halakah and mashava require Rabbi Ari to confront essential difference over the invisibility and oneness of HaShem with Pastor Anderson. Creation, revelation, redemption, G-d, Torah and Israel under Judaism do not overlap with Christianity. Inescapable differences should not be glossed over with Christians no matter how well meaning. Stick with common public policy visions under R. Soloveitchik’s caution in his essay, “Confrontation”.
2022-10-25

3. Brilliant - Listened to a first GFE episode weeks ago and have been binge listening since. Love it Ari Lamm is an incredible thinker, asks spot on questions and is brilliant. My fav is the jaw dropping mind blown reaction from each guest after he eloquently lays out the episodes theme and proceeds to introduce them; work of art!
2022-07-28

4. It’s fun and so refreshing and thoughtful! - The host knows how to engage an eclectic array of impressive guests to best mine their thinking on important religous topics. The podcast is like a model for the kind of conversations you want to be enjoying at your Shabbat table. It makes for the most enjoyable commute to work (or workout) of the week!
2022-02-16

5. Defining what is right together - This discussion was like making a spectacular lasagna; it took time to shop for the ingredients, prepare the layers and for it to cook in the oven but then it just came out with delicious ideas; better yet, as the flavours melded over the next hours and days, it has Promised to be that much more remarkable to taste, Thank you.
2021-03-03

6. Big Ideas for a Big Book - To the uninitiated, the Bible is a dense book relevant to past times. But not so, Ari Lamm brings these timeless treasures to life for our time. These are not apologetics, they are contemporary and relevant insights into the genius of the Divine. Bravo! I look forward to each podcast.
2020-12-04

7. Smart and attractive—with substance! - “Good Faith Effort” take a serious subject—the Bible—and makes engaging this wise and holy text an attractive and winsome experience. Host Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm is an ideal interlocutor for both The Book and his impressive, smart guests and the background music and pop culture references feel more natural than forced. Kudos on the debut of this quality program—thoughtful audiences will want to add the program to their playlist!
2020-10-20

Unorthodox is the world’s leading Jewish podcast - but you don’t have to be Jewish to love it! Hosted by Mark Oppenheimer, Stephanie Butnick, and Liel Leibovitz of Tablet Magazine, each episode we bring you interesting guests, News of the Jews, and so much more.

Release date: 2023-02-23

Comments

1. לשון הרע - Lacking journalistic integrity- I DO NOT recommend - I listened to the Unorthodox podcast and was disappointed with its lack of journalistic integrity. The group spread lies and Lashon hara without interviewing both sides fairly and failed to do adequate research on the Seattle Sephardic orthodox community. While the podcast claimed that both synagogues were declining since the s, the truth is that they are now trending up again. They declined due to poor leadership now, both synagogues have strong, vibrant boards, and very smart educated presidents who are doing both great job growing both EB & SBH. The issue is not that the synagogues are dying, but rather that Seward Park as a whole is facing housing and economic challenges. Both synagogues have plenty of members who live outside of the Seward Park community . Furthermore, both synagogues have plenty of money in reserves and decently-sized endowments, which were not mentioned in the podcast. This makes the institutions financially stable and unlikely to go anywhere anytime soon. It's essential to consider all aspects of a community before making assumptions or spreading misinformation. Unfortunately, this podcast failed to do so. Therefore, I cannot recommend this podcast as their journalism is not truthful, and they spread lies and lashon harrah.
2023-03-01

2. The Connection - Can’t remember how I tripped onto Unorthodox. But I’m so glad I did. I moved to CA, in , from a small town in Ohio, with a moderately small Jewish community. Today that community is essentially non-existent. There were about kids my age most were B’nai Mitzvah’d and all were Confirmed. The camaraderie with these kids, our adventures with NFTY - visiting other Jewish communities in the tri-state area, then culminating those experiences at Jew Camp in Zionsville Indiana was the best Jewish connection ever. Your podcast brings me the same feeling of community I had back in Ohio without having to live there! Plus, today I get to live in the beautiful Bay Area. Thank You – Thank You – Thank You- Stephanie, Mark, Liel, Josh, Robert, and Quin Alan Bay Area
2023-01-17

3. Makes my week. Every week. - These guys are the best. I’m embarrassed to be such a shill, but if you want a laugh, a touch of Jewyness, some current events, and some grounding with what’s important, tune in every week. If nothing else, Liel makes me LOL every week. There’s no one more clever on a podcast!
2023-01-16

4. Quintessential Jewish Podcast - Unorthodox is a must listen. The “Jew of the week” and a “gentile of the week” interviews have taught me so much and exposed me to some phenomenal work. For example, Mark just interviewed African American Jewish writer and culinary historian, Michael Twitty. What is a culinary historian?!?! I know now!
2022-12-15

5. Fantastic podcast over the years - This review is long overdue. I’ve been listening for several years to UnOrthodox and every Thursday feels like a book club/wine night/fieldtrip/ great conversation with some of my smartest friends. I’ve grown to know and love these three and their very different personalities and talents as well as the mastermind crew behind the show. Thanks for s and s of thought-provoking episodes.
2022-11-26

6. Daf yomi - I have been reading and listening to take one. I love take one. It’s my morning listening to start the day. I keep thinking how this will go on for “” years and will I be alive until then. I am one of your older listeners. Also I love unorthodox. It makes me laugh and learn new interesting info. Thanks so much for being on. Binnie Goldhirsch The mothership episode was your best show. It was so informative and moving. I am a grandmother now & still hoping my granddaughters grow up and be able to take care of themselves. Thank you again for a great show . I Love gatecrashers . Read the article in the Wall Street Journal The Campaign Against Our Yeshives // It’s under Houses of Worship by Sheba Tauby It explains why they chose Yeshiva Learing & why it’s good for their children. . I love the podcast Binnie
2022-09-16

7. Good podcasts for road - Me and my son almost always listen to these podcasts on our way to hockey games. By the way, Liel, Jews play hockey too especially in the DC metro area. Love news for the Jews. Most interviews are really interesting especially those with armin rosin, my former student. However, could you stop interviewing Hollywood types-most aren't the most interesting people. Please interview the Jewish farmer network if possible. Keep up the great podcasts, Marc Grossman Rockville MD
2022-06-18

8. Five stars - I started listening to Unorthodox in or so. I was dating a yid and as a culturally-Catholic agnostic from the Midwest I was looking for insight into the secret sauce that was so important to my boo. years later I’m still listening. It’s no longer my only connection to the tribe (I’ve since converted and married said boo), Mark, Stephanie, and Liel feel like my distant relatives that I check in with once a week. The nuances that they espouse in their conversations help me feel at home on days when I feel too progressive for my modern orthodox affiliation, and when I feel more frum than my unaffiliated friends. especially lovely while making Shabbat food.
2022-06-07

9. Wonderful addiction - I became addicted to these amazing co hosts when I found the podcast early in the pandemic. I have discovered so many authors, books, organizations and heard the kind of interesting information and views that I have never before come upon. I am indebted to these folks for keeping me going and even smiling during these troubled times. I am grateful to them all for their humor, wisdom and insights. Our long car trips are not complete until we listen to many episodes of Unorthodox. This is my opportunity to thank you all for your integrity and friendship. It is a joy to hear you week after week. Ellen Light. Albuquerque NM
2022-05-31

Helping you find meaning in life through the exploration of Jewish thought and ideas.

Release date: 2023-02-28

Comments

1. Wonderful podcast!!! - I cannot thank you enough for putting out such amazing thought provoking content! This podcast has helped guide me on my journey and has enriched my Judaism in profound ways! I highly recommend it to everyone, especially to those grappling with their faith. May hashem continue to give you and your team the ability to carry on in your holy work for many years to come!!! Thank you
2022-11-07

2. So Glad I Found This - What a unique and awesome podcast! Rabbi Dovid is an amazing host, asking some really insightful questions and bringing up conversation that is fascinating and informative at the same time. His enthusiasm for his guests and their discussions is infectious. The show also dives in to really unique and wonderful topics. I was recommended the podcast by two different people in the same day which is what prompted me to listen to it and now I’m hooked as well.
2022-05-16

3. Innovative Intersectionality - It takes true creative boldness and courage to create a podcast that meets at the intersection of Judaism and the modern world/academia/any topic ever. The nuance in this podcast is on a top tier level like I’ve never seen before. As a common consumer of Jewish podcasts, this one satisfies my intellectual and emotional desires that I constantly look for in my podcast consumption, which I often find to be lacking in modern discourse. And, of course, it always gives me something to tweet about. THANK YOU!
2022-02-11

4. Listener podcast - Dear David, My name is Ulli Rotzscher. I met you when you were visiting us in Oakland at Beth Jacob Congregation. Ever since I am a great fan of . I love your pation and inside you bring to the podcast. BTW, you can have book darts, I love them myself, personalized from the maker. They are very likeable. Great yasher koach to you and your team. Chodesh tov, Ulli
2022-02-02

5. Best podcast out there - I cannot recommend this podcast enough!! R. Bashevkin provides an amazing resource for Jewish thought, philosophy and dialogue that is incredibly thought provoking. I really enjoyed the episodes with R Judah Mischel, Leah Forster and Zohar Atkins. This podcast has genuinely provided so much more depth to my spiritual and philosophical Judaism and has truly enhanced my daily commutes :). Each episode gets straight to the point and wastes no time providing knowledge to the listener.
2021-12-17

6. Pt - How can you give legitimacy to people who are off the derech and support and hope for people to do the same. I used to respect David Bashevkin and his work but after hearing some of these podcasts it’s disturbing how he could go ahead and preach about his religion and then show his support who forfeit it.
2021-12-14

7. Changing the Game - Orthodox Judaism was in desperate need for a new medium to communicate the richness, complexity, and beauty of Torah, Jews, and God. Rabbi Bashevkin and the Forty team are doing that oh so successfully. I know Hashem is beaming, and I can tell you that I, too, love all the work you do. Thank you
2021-09-17

8. Thought provoking and resonant - I’m enjoying listening to the podcasts on family divergence. The conversations are well structured with thoughtful articulation of the issues that arise and the challenging give and take that occurs in challenging situations. I find this provides realistic and optimistic perspectives and methods to navigate the differences we encounter in life. Keep up the good work!
2021-04-15

9. Thank you! - I just listened to two special podcasts: one with Rabbi Penner and one with Rachelle Fraenkel. They were two of the most touching, and soul searching podcasts I’ve ever heard and they stand with the best in over podcast that I’ve listen to over the years.I look forward to being a new fan! Thank you Dovid Bashevkin.
2021-03-26

Living the life of an Orthodox Jew in the 21st Century often necessitates a very significant income. Unfortunately, many are struggling to keep up. The Problem Is Bigger Than We Realize The cost of life for an Orthodox family with children can range from $150,000 to $350,000 or more, depending on city and schools of choice, lifestyle choices and number of children. The median income in America is $68,000 per family. This means that a family would potentially need to be in the top 5% of all incom...

Release date: 2023-02-01

Comments

1. New listener - The ideas in these podcasts are very informative, a very good outcome would be if people listening from different communities were too take them to heart, and spread them actively. Not just personally but collectively. For example I just listened to the one about tuition and he spoke about group funding. It would be wonderful if people in different communities got together and formed local organizations that would group fund from all of the Jews in the community for all of the yeshivas and Jewish Schools in the area. The way I see it, is that this voluntary local taxation would inevitably make everyone’s financial situation easier to deal with. Person who read this review until this point, take the message and try to get a few people together and make this change just in your area. Your impact should be a major zechus for your entire community and for all of klal yisrael. And if you live in a diverse community thinking about the amount of ahavas yisrael this would cause is mind boggling. In that merit we should all soon see the coming of mashiach Speedly and in our days!
2022-04-19

2. So on the money! - This podcast is exactly what this generation and our community needs. Keep it up! I can’t get enough, your guest choices have been amazing and your casual but direct questioning has the guests giving some of their best insights right here on the podcast. What’s a chessed you guys are doing!
2022-02-25

3. Enriching - I'm not Jewish, but I have always been open to growth and learning. I ran across an episode on Youtube, and now tune in and revisit past episodes. The conversations are candid, and offer much value. There is so much to learn in these candid conversations beyond money. I enjoy learning about the culture and its principles. (Also enjoy the humor). The video is much better than just audio, but of course the podcast is great on the go. Thank you Kosher Money!
2022-02-17

4. Necessary - For some reason the school curriculum consists of a lot of history and science but nothing about regular day to day life. As you get older you sort of have to figure out that you should be getting life insurance, saving for retirement, budgeting, paying a mortgage and you need to figure it out on your own. This podcast is so necassary on a practical level and it's pretty funny too. Check it out!!
2022-02-07

5. So validating - Im only min into the first episode and I just want to scream, cry and laugh all at the same time! This info is soooo flippin validating!! My husband and I went to college, have good jobs and life is still a struggle. Bh we discovered dave ramsey a number of years ago and we have turned our life around but again frum life is beautiful and so extremely expensive. Thank you for speaking about this critical topic openly-yes it’s boring but we need to learn this so we can tell our money where it goes- not the opposite. Thank you!!!
2022-01-24

6. Great discussions, Great Host - This podcast covers super important topics in an interesting and compelling way. Host Eli Langer has a great Everyman approachability that really welcomes the listener, talking with them instead of to them, which can be tricky with a topic like money. Looking forward to more episodes :)
2021-11-02

The world is made up of a lot of people. Follow this podcast for conversations with some of the most amazing individuals. We discuss how they face challenges, how they got to where they are now and what makes them tick.

Release date: 2023-03-04

Comments

1. Yaakov is really special - The Langers in general are super talented, as someone who grew up a block from them- I just never knew just how gifted they are. Yaakov is really unbelievable, I started traveling a lot and I make sure not to get on a plane without ensuring his podcast is downloaded. I really enjoy his guests and the questions are super smart. Kudos!
2022-09-14

2. Yaakov Langer Does it Again - I discovered this podcast a few weeks ago and am hooked. Yaakov does a great job finding highly inspiring and impressive people, and facilitating the conversation in the right way to draw out lessons and anecdotes in a real way. I’ve learned so much already and am excited to see what else is down the pike.
2022-09-08

3. Keep on inspiring and making us Smile!! - Yaakov… Much continued success in all your creativity Together with your wife Gitta & adorable son!! You’re talented and so enjoy watching & listening to all your podcasts!! Best of all… A close friends of our boys are close friends of ours… And you called me MOM…WOW!!
2022-08-30

4. INCREDIBLE - This podcast is really inspirational! A friend of mine recommended this show, so I listed to one episode, and ever since I don’t miss a single episode. The episodes are so informative, inspirational, and get me thinking all the time. The speakers are always someone to be admired, and the host really keeps thing entertaining. I truly feel this podcast has strengthened my spirituality and connection to Hashem! Thank you!
2022-08-26

5. Phenomenal Podcast - Yaakov Langer is a master interviewer, and chooses fantastic guests! I was sad when I saw that he left the Meaningful People Podcast (though his replacement, Momo Bauman, is also fantastic), but super excited when I found out why! Could not recommend this podcast more. Also, a recommendation for a guest: Rabbi Tovia Singer is someone who is absolutely changing the world and bringing Mashiach. He’s super entertaining and funny, but also someone who deeply cares about all human beings, and spreading the truth of yiddishkeit. His main goal is fighting against the teachings of Christianity, and their distortion of the Torah, but he does so with such love and genuine concern for Christians and all other people, not out of hate. Many people have become either Jewish or b’nei Noach because of him. I highly recommend getting him on the show!
2022-07-28

As Jews around the world engage in a seven-and-a-half year cycle of Daf Yomi, reading the entire Talmud one page per day, Tablet Magazine's new podcast, Take One, will offer a brief and evocative daily read of the daf, in just about 10 minutes. New episodes will be released daily Monday through Friday.

Release date: 2023-03-06

Comments

1. Daf yumi - I listen everyday and learn so much. I hope this pod cast never ends Binnie I tried the welcome to the tent .com but I’m not finding it. Is it under gmail. Podcast, where Thanks for helping me Binnie I am having trouble downloading Robert Scaramuccia newsletter. Please help me. Can you send me the site Binnie
2023-01-05

2. Thank you Reb Leibowitz - So grateful for this podcast. It reminds me of my learning experience at the Pardes Institute in Jerusalem. I’ve missed this type of engagement with texts from Jewishly literate yet compassionate and critically thinking teachers. Thank you Reb Leibowitz for all of you efforts
2022-11-22

3. Fantastic for newbies and the well-read alike! - Truth be told, this is the only Tablet-produced content I can stand to take in anymore. Unlike Tablet’s—and Liebowitz’s own—print content, Take One is happy, non-controversial, and non-reactionary. I recommend it to all the folks I meet interested in wading into Talmud!
2022-11-17

4. Starting to fade - At the start of the Daf cycle the pod cast was strong. Now I feel there are a couple of issues: . Sound quality from a majority of the callers is very poor and I cannot even listen to the episode. . Self promotion of the “guest” speakers. They are promoting their new book, their podcast ect. Let’s get back to the heart of the Daf and focus on making each day aka podcast the best it can with the best sound quality from the callers.
2021-04-09

5. Often judgemental - An example is the post thanksgiving podcast where Josh cross is discussing his anger regarding people that travel - maybe he’s right maybe he’s wrong - however even the lawmakers that tell The populations not to travel-are traveling! He should just worry about him and his family doing what they feel is right.
2020-11-30

6. Wow, giving birth to ideas - I have not missed an episode of this Podcast. Sometimes an episode is an okay, that is interesting; sometimes, you get one that is a well I guess he needed to say something; but then you get one like today with Sarah Telushkin (sp?) that surpasses good and gives birth to ideas. Bring her back, the pace and the exciting thoughts about the other apples on Adam’s tree were provocative and fresh. This episode was Super, and flowed naturally.
2020-08-27

7. For the goyim, too. - I'm not Jewish, not even religious, but I am a big fan of Liel Leibovitz. I would listen to any podcast he hosts, and I thoroughly enjoy Take One. Not only is it a five-day-a-week insight into how Liel thinks, his many well-chosen guests offer fascinating takes on a wide range of topics. For me, Talmud is a springboard to consider any number of issues germane to all our lives. I don't know that I'll stick with it for / years—or even whether Liel and producer extraordinaire Josh Kross will see it through—but for now I welcome its presence in my podcast feed.
2020-08-22

A Book Like No Other (BLNO) is a podcast about approaching the Torah on its own terms to reveal the symmetry, beauty, and insight that can emerge from open learning without expectations. Come along each season for an in-depth learning journey with Aleph Beta Founder and Lead Scholar, Rabbi David Fohrman, a master close reader of Torah. Together, we'll unwrap the remarkable patterns and surprising connections that lie beneath the Torah's surface and truly make this a book like no other. A Book L...

Release date: 2023-02-27

Comments

1. Blown Away - As usual, I’m absolutely blown away by Rabbi Fohrman and Emu’s analyses. I usually start off skeptical, but somehow almost always end up being totally invested in their interpretation of the Torah. Can’t wait for the next episode! (Also, I totally think the Tree’s reappearance is the burning bush– “v’hasneh einenu ukal: and the tree was not consumed/eaten…”
2023-02-17

2. I LOVE This Book Like No Other!! - I am a Bema Podcast listener. It was there I first heard about Rabbi Forhman. I quickly picked up his book “The Exodus You Almost Passed Over”. His book “Sin Crouching at Your Door” is on its way to my home. I have been hoping he would do a podcast and this is, even just one episode in, exactly, as awesome, as I thought it would be! Thank you for making Mondays so fun!! Here in this podcast is where I believe so many of those question marks in my Bible will finally be addressed if not answered. Not with pat answers of: Well because He is The LORD He can do whatever He wants to do. Which never felt satisfying and never felt like they fit for a supposedly loving and logical God. This is exciting and I’m already telling my friends to tune in with me!
2023-02-07

3. A teacher like no other - Rabbi Fohrman is a teacher like no other, able to take complicated questions and provide answers that seem so obvious and true after he explains them that you wonder why you didn’t see them before. I love his thought process and the way he presents evidence. He frequently provides analogies across multiple disciplines (history, science, literature, poetry, movies, etc) that help deepen my understanding of the biblical text. He and Imu are a team like no other, and so far, the podcast A Book Like No Other is living up to its name.
2023-01-31

4. Excited for this podcast! - I’m a huge fan of Rabbi Fohrman and I’m beyond excited for this podcast. Only reason I gave this stars instead of is due to formatting. Less narrating and more conversation please! You don’t need all the cute music and narrative inserts. Either way I’ll be a devote listener, what an incredible opportunity to learn from Fohrman’s years of research and experience in the Torah.
2023-01-31

Israel Story is an award-winning podcast that tells true stories you won't hear on the news. Hosted by Mishy Harman, the bi-weekly show brings you extraordinary tales about ordinary Israelis. The show is produced in partnership with The Jerusalem Foundation. For Hebrew episodes, see סיפור ישראלי, or go to our website: israelstory.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Release date: 2023-02-27

Comments

1. Really diverse stories - I like this podcast very much. Started by going to the beginning of the episodes and working my way forward each morning during my daily workouts. I’ve been to Israel many times and this show has taught me a lot- I want to visit some of the sites mentioned on my next visit. Thanks!
2022-11-27

2. Imitation Highest Form of Flattery - After listening to all of “This American Life” episodes at least twice, I have been thirsty for more. This podcast openly acknowledges it’s a copy replacing America with Israel. The stories are equally interesting but the host does lack the charm Ira Glass brings. Still it is worth the listen!
2021-12-20

3. Wonderful! - For any Israelphile or anybody at all that loves a good story, this podcast rises above others. I can’t believe how good it is: interesting, engaging and at times inspiring. Every aspect of it is highest quality: sound, production, but most of all story-telling and lack of politicization (which for me would ruin the whole thing. ) Thank you thank you thank you for filling a need in my podcast appetite I didn’t know existed. Highly recommend.
2021-04-23

4. This by far is one of the best podcasts there is! - I listen to a number of podcasts daily, Rachel Maddow, Anderson Cooper, The Morning Show, Chris Cuomo, The Takeout, while I get ready for work, commute, walk the dog, bike ride cook and do dishes, you name it and I am almost always on a podcast. This is my total favorite. I laugh out loud, I have cried...the subject matter is always interesting, the way the stories are told so artistic and creative...these folks out so much humanity and soul into each production. Thank you!!
2021-02-20

5. The Only Podcast - I generally don’t listen to podcasts. I don’t have a commute really, and I like listening to music when I exercise. However, there is one podcast that I am continually drawn to - obsessed with, actually - and that’s Israel Story. I’ve spent a lot of time in Israel, and I cherish the nuances, the variety, the continually surprising and fascinating subjects that Mishi Harmon and his crew bring to light. But for people that know nothing about the country, its history or its people, the series is a doorway to a fascinating part of the world with all of its beauty and its faults. The stories are truly unforgettable and I am so grateful to be able to hear them. If there were stars I’d give it that.
2021-01-25

6. Just amazing - This podcast is the best. I discovered it only recently, and I’m binge-listening to past episodes because I just can’t stop! It’s compelling and uplifting, and it gives an incredible window into the Israel you don’t see in the headlines, and indeed into the human condition as a whole. Do yourself a favor and listen!
2021-01-04

7. Stunning podcast - I am a podcast person. Like many people, I had to take a break from political podcasts. A friend recommended this podcast and I decided to give it a try. Nearly every episode leaves me speechless. Unique stories that always uplift or make me think long and hard after they’re over. Highly recommend.
2021-01-03

8. Each episode is a gift. - I never quite know when to expect a new episode or special section, but when they appear I can’t wait to go take a walk and listen. Does not matter your political, religious or ideological perspective. This is about humans. The only thing I dislike about this podcast is that there are not more!
2021-01-03

9. Just great - Ok, so it’s a ripoff of TAL. But as the parent of an Israeli and a frequent visitor to that country, I can’t think of any other form of media that expresses Israel’s nature, history, and culture as well as Israel story. Nothing even comes close. I can’t wait until you start doing live shows in the US again and I hope you come to to Boston, my home town.
2020-12-13

Thoughtful debate elevates us all. In For Heaven’s Sake, Donniel Hartman, Yossi Klein Halevi, and Elana Stein Hain revive the Jewish art of constructive discussion on topics related to political and social trends in Israel, Israel-Diaspora relations, and the collective consciousness of being Jewish.

Release date: 2023-02-15

Comments

1. Democracy? - How can it be said that the Israeli government was elected by a majority of the people? Did the current PM win a majority of the vote, did his party win a majority of the vote, did the coalition win a majority of the vote? My understanding is that the answer is no to all three questions. Wait until the next election? If the government’s plan is to eliminate the role of the courts then they could pass a law to end elections.
2023-01-21

2. Intelligent - I find this podcast filled with intelligent conversation about varying subjects that are happening in the world and Judaism - the two are separate. I do not always agree with the various opinions that are presented, but I find it important to allow the dialogue to take place. For some it will enlighten their perspective, for others it will confirm their beliefs and for others it will prove why they disagree with such thoughts from their fellow Jews. However the most important part of the podcast is that a discussion is taking place and each listener is growing in his or her viewpoint.
2022-11-26

3. Even the music hit a chord! - The discussion about the future of Liberalism in Israel did more than “tap” my left chord. It allowed me to consider the inner voices in a coherent manner; a deep melancholy as to the ability of Israel to seek notes of commonality. This podcast, the institute, is more important than ever. Amidst despair, I have a heard a glimmer of hope that Israel will begin to seek an essential dialogue on ideas (not idolised personalities) wherever moderation….whatever that means…exists. My optimism has not been extinguished just significantly dampened.
2022-11-23

4. on “the antisemitism we tolerate” edition - While I do appreciate your coverage of the attack on two Bar and one Bat Mitzvah celebrants at the wall by Haredim, you leave out misogyny! The haredim have been violent toward women praying at the wall for decades. You cannot analyze the problem and not mention women in an hourlong discussion.
2022-07-15

Each time Jewish thinkers pushed beyond the bounds of ideas from the past, they were labeled heretics or apostates. But the word, "heretic" comes from the Latin meaning, "to choose," and is "an opinion which disagrees with or conflicts with those who generally accept something as being authoritative, proper, or correct." In other words, a Heretic is a person who has applied their own intellect and experience of the world to emerge with a Truth that explains the Universe. This is a long-winded wa...

Release date: 2023-01-30

Welcome to Chutzpod! -- ancient texts for modern times. Chutzpod! is a weekly podcast in which Rabbi Shira Stutman, Joshua Malina, and honored guests bring a Jewish lens to life's toughest questions: Who do I want to be in this one life? How do we work to heal this broken world? And how, dear G-d, did gefilte fish become a thing? It's a podcast for people of all or no faiths; Hebrew school truants and proud yeshiva graduates; those who want to be inspired but don't want to schlep to synagogue; b...

Release date: 2023-02-24

Comments

1. Outstanding podcast - I started listening to this show about days ago, // and found the content to be extremely interesting, funny, knowledgeable, in lighting, uplifting and revenant. I’m years old, reform Jew in Michigan, I have two boys, and , my year old celebrated his Bar Mitzvah last January, we live in a fairly new neighborhood, one of our Rabbi’s is our neighbor and will turn her on to this show. I sent the shoe to my cousin in DC, friend in Chicago and another in Michigan, keep podcasting. I’ll try to listen to all, some days recent others when you started but I really love the way you two feed off one another. Thank you, Michael
2023-02-01

2. Wonderful - I’m not Jewish, just a big religion nerd and Joshua Malina fan. This podcast has deepened my understanding of my own religious texts, and the beliefs of my Jewish friends and neighbors. I have become better at my job as a Lutheran Christian Educator by listening to a Jewish podcast. If only we all took more time to learn from each other.
2023-01-06

3. A great way to end the week…or really anytime - R. Shira and Josh do a wonderful job addressing the weekly Torah portion and other relevant topics to Jews and truly anyone concerned with the bigger questions of life. Very often deeply insightful and always humorous, their back and forth banter is a weekly delight. And their interviews are simply delicious, like a perfectly sweet hamentashen (sorry, much better latkes) available year round. Give them a listen. Am sure you’ll be pleased.
2023-01-06

4. Love this podcast… mostly. - I mostly love this podcast very much. It’s funny and thoughtful and educational and irreverent, all at the right amount. But I was very out off by the conversation about Yom Hazikaron and Yom Haazmaut. To be clear, the guests were incredible and their insights and perspectives are important. But the approach to this conversation, the idea that it is controversial for Israelis to mourn their fallen or celebrate their independence and existence in our ancestral and indigenous homeland was infuriating. It’s frustrating that Jews, and Israelis in particular, are alone held to such an impossible high standard, that everything they do is criticized. And while I expect it from the outside world, to find it here from fellow Jews was heartbreaking. Give us these hours to mourn, honor and rejoice. Why is that so terrible?
2022-06-14

5. Josh Told Me To Say “It’s Pretty Good, And It’s Free” - Having loved “The West Wing Weekly”, and knowing the quality of conversation I could expect, I dived right into this podcast even though I am as goyish as it gets. I have to admit I know little about Judaism (beyond what I learned from Christian Old Testament when I was a kid at a UCC church), so this podcast serves as a unique educational experience for me. I love how the content and the conversations do more than just inform; they enlighten. This podcast reaffirms my belief that good people can exist anywhere, that open and kind conversation can do more than we think, and that god (lower case on purpose) isn’t exclusive. To date, the episode that opened my mind the most was about the golden calf. If you haven’t listened to that one yet, you’re in for a brain-melt. Thank you, Chutzpod!, for the excellent podcast!
2022-05-05

6. Needs to be longer! - I enjoy both the breadth and depth of the podcast. Rabbi Shira is, well, a Rabbi, complete with the knowledge and the teaching mindset that go with it. Josh is intelligent and articulate and pretty darn knowledgeable himself. (He did attend a yeshiva as a child, before he went to Yale). I just wish the episodes were a little bit longer, so that they could spend some time digging a little deeper.
2022-04-15

7. TuB’Shvat episode - If the holiday is a giant “sweep,” one holiday covering all the blessings needed for all the trees, why didn’t the rabbis devise this for other aspects of Jewish life? How about one holiday for food where all the brachot are taken care of at once for all the food we will eat all year? Thank you for the podcast!
2022-02-10

8. Funny and fulfilling!!! - I LOVE this podcast! I highly recommend it to everyone!! I am learning about Jewish teachings, looking at what I have learned from a different perspective. Josh Malina, as always, makes me laugh throughout and it’s just a feel good experience. My only gripe (not really a gripe) is with the name, although clever and very on point, Alexa doesn’t recognize it when I tell her to play the latest episode of Chutzpod! Nonetheless, it’s way worth manually playing it and I plan to be doing so for many, many episodes to come!
2022-02-07

9. LOVE this show! - It's funny, educational, soulfuo and heart felt. It's everything! I wasn't raised Jewish but my mother's family is, so I really appreciate learning about this fiath, which is part of my heritage, but also about another faith tradition that I've lived along side all my life but never took the time to delve deeper. I also enjoy the different segments and viewpoints and they way the hosts are willing even eager to go into contreversy. It is a valuable addition to the podcast universe.
2022-01-26

These classes teach the day’s section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

Release date: 2023-03-06

Comments

1. Amazing classes - This rabbi has taught me so much about the Most High above. After struggling for years on my own and searchingly trying to find Him to better understand. I prayed, failed and tried again over and over. I knew I needed to and wanted to know about Him. Deeper understanding. Through work I watch these men (Jews) not only work, but also as they carried themselves. Very careful in all aspects. Respectful of others and as well as the highest regard toward everyday being (“Jewish”). It left a great impression on me. Until I was able to listen and ask about Him. Complete light bulb moment. I searched online for a rabbi who taught online and many years later I’m still listening to this wonderful cleaver (the man has his funny moments, and wise ones) generous man. Thanks to Rabbi Gordon and (Rashi) I am finally able to learn about the One as I have always wanted. Thank you sir and Rest In Peace.
2021-03-22

2. Great Parsha Lessons! - These are truly wonderful parsha lessons if your goal is to learn the parsha and build a solid foundation in Torah. Rabbi Gordon is straightforward, clear, interesting — and really grows on you! I’m always disappointed when the daily lesson is over... and also feel like I did a good thing, getting my daily parsha done. stars!
2020-12-02

3. The Perfect Parsha Pocast! - Friends, lumdists, lantzman, lend me your ear buds: I’ve tried many and appreciate all but in my humble opinion this is the perfect Parsha podcast. Rabbi Gordon is an expert Torah teacher who strikes a magical balance of substance, sensitivity and humor. I am starting an annual Cinco de Mayo Farbrengren in Honor of Rabbi Gordon. Salsa will be served - and may be danced (not mixed!).
2018-04-24

4. Amazing! - Through every cycle of the Chumash I learn something new. Rabbi Gordon’s comments on the text often followed by his explanation of Rashi are truly enlightening. Whatever life situation you may find yourself experiencing please understand that there IS already an answer in Torah. Torah is everything that was, everything that is, and everything that will be. Rabbi Gordon; you should live and be well and may HaShem increase your Knowledge and Wisdom! Awmein
2017-12-21

Rabbi Dr. Yitzchak Breitowitz's weekly Question and Answer sessions at Ohr Somayach, Jerusalem. A Project of Ohr.edu Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear from you at: Podcasts@ohr.edu

Release date: 2023-03-05

Comments

1. Amazing Podcast - R’ Breitowitz truly has a gift for being able to answer any and all questions that are given to him, and more often than not he is also able to give the source for his answers on the spot. His answers are very easy to understand even when the topic is not so easy. It would be nice if there was a log of questions already asked on a website since many times a question is repeated by the Talmudim, but this is okay since it’s always good to review Torah haha!
2022-01-27

A podcast dedicated to sharing inspirational Jewish stories that teach valuable and vital lessons from the Torah. Listeners will be moved by a daily story of spirituality. Featuring Jewish stories from the sages, the chassidic masters, and contemporary Jewish storytellers.

Release date: 2023-03-06

Comments

1. Words Of Truth! - These stories shake up worlds and the hardest part is to realistically apply them to our lives. Knowing that Danny is behind this movement makes me feel all the more comfortable. The beauty in this is that it’s our responsibility to share these stories with our friends and do our best to actually change something within our schedules/lives in order to truly be moved by them. Danny, thank you for your hard work and precious time that you put into this! May we all not just be “inspired” by these recorded events but may we uplift ourselves and those around us with there messages by taking action. stars for % words of EMET/TRUTH! Love, Aaron
2018-06-08

Hadran.org.il is the portal for Daf Yomi studies for women. Hadran.org.il is the first and only site where one can hear a daily Talmud class taught by a woman. The classes are taught in Israel by Rabbanit Michelle Cohen Farber, a graduate of Midreshet Lindenbaum’s scholars program with a BA in Talmud and Tanach from Bar-Ilan University. Michelle has taught Talmud and Halacha at Midreshet Lindenbaum, Pelech high school and MATAN. She lives in Ra’anana with her husband and their five childre...

Release date: 2023-03-05

Comments

1. The world of Talmud opened to women! - A wonderful, knowledgeable, interesting daily dose of Talmud given by a brilliant woman who changes the way women view Judaism. She provides insight into why we do what we do connecting us even more to what it means to be a Jew. We are privileged to have Rabbanit Farber in our generation! I would highly recommend this pod cast to beginners and the experienced Talmud students alike!
2020-04-14

2. Wonderful for beginners to Talmud - The Rabbanit is a wonderful teacher because she doesn’t assume that listeners are coming to the subject matter with a background in Talmud. Sometimes, it’s hard to follow her because she takes questions/comments from her live classroom and since you can’t hear the questions or comments, you might feel like you’re missing out on something.
2020-02-20

3. Superb and reliable. A real treasure - Rabbanit is wonderful. Incredibly knowledgeable, articulate, thoughtful, terrific clear pronunciation, lightning quick connections among different texts, interpretations, and practice. Attentive to relevance and meaning. No fluff, just very solid learning. A real treasure.
2020-01-26

Follow along and recite the words of Tehilim wherever you are and whatever you are doing. This project by Meaningful Minute, powered by the Eisenberger Family, enables everyone to be able to recite Tehilim while driving without comprising their safety.

Release date: 2023-02-15

Textual study of the daily section of Tanya, the foundational text of Chassidic philosophy.

Release date: 2023-03-06

In a frenzied media cycle, Identity/Crisis delves into the big ideas behind the news from a uniquely Jewish perspective. From the Shalom Hartman Institute, host Yehuda Kurtzer invites leading thinkers to unpack current events effecting Jewish communities in North America, Israel, and around the world, revealing the core Jewish values underlying the issues that matter to you.

Release date: 2023-02-21

Comments

1. Pretty good podcast but… - Listening to the anti Zionism and Berkeley podcast today I was struck by the general ineffectual response to the issue on campus. Yes, you can have a symposium/course on Zionism and Israel. Who will you reach and how many? Or, you can work to have the university adapt the UN definition of antisemitism. Having that as a foundation, you can defund/prevent any campus group that is antisemitic/racist. It’s called nipping in the bud at its source instead of trying to shoot down all the chaff in the air. What I heard is a typical left response to a serious problem on college campuses. The other problem with this episode was there were no students interviewed, only faculty! Who spends more time on campus and are directly affected by this antisemitism? Crazy!!
2022-10-21

2. The smartest - If this isn’t the smartest podcast on contemporary Jewish life, I can’t imagine what is. Yehuda walks his pluralistic talk, inviting dialogue and debate from all corners, while readily disclosing and dissecting his own views with an intellectual honesty that few are capable of in public. Much to admire in the podcast, the sponsoring organization and the leader of both.
2022-02-08

The Orthodox Conundrum is a forum in which we look honestly at the Orthodox Jewish community, identifying what works well and what does not, so that, through an honest accounting, we can find solutions that will be successful. We will examine some of the major issues that affect the Orthodox world, without exaggeration, whitewashing, or pretending that they don’t exist. Our hope is that the Orthodox Conundrum will spark wider discussion that will enable Orthodox Judaism to continue moving for...

Release date: 2023-03-01

Comments

1. Excellent content! - I have listened to perhaps more than twelve podcasts (not including Intimate Judaism!) The topics are very timely redefining and deconstructing long held myths or beliefs that need to be re-examined for Torah to remain a relevant document. I especially liked Rav Nathan Cordozo’s interview. Sometimes, Rav Scott Kahn may allow his guests to dance around topics, but other times he asks tough questions. Thank you for the much needed and not often heeded discussions! Please continue asking difficult questions!
2022-12-30

2. A responsible moderator and hard hitting topics. - The podcast tackles serious topics and brings in fascinating subjects. As a moderator Scott is fair, principled, respectful, well researched, and provides a center of gravity to balance his guest speakers. I wish Scott hosted the more well known Halachic current events podcast.
2022-01-17

3. Very Informative Podcast - Thank you for your recent episode regarding Covid during Sukkot. I was so happy to hear a rabbi speak up. I was deeply saddened by the news of what was happening and you expressed the same painful feelings which needed to be shared. I heard the pain in your voice, as I’m sure it was not an easy podcast to deliver. I believe you radiate true torah values and you are a wonderful example of a true Torah observant Jew. I listen to this podcast as well as Intimate Judaism. Yashar Koach to you for all your hard work. May Hashem bless you and your family with with a wonderful year.
2020-10-14

Go behind the scenes of Israeli history with self-confessed history nerd Noam Weissman. Each week, he offers a fresh perspective on some of the most controversial and interesting events in the country’s history. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about what Israel is all about -- from multiple angles and viewpoints -- this is the podcast for you.

Release date: 2023-03-01

Comments

1. Oh my - By the time you mentioned a synagogue board meeting I about lost it. I am a Buddhist with a jewish wife, and two of my four children are jewish. Until years ago I had little concept of what being jewish was, but I knew the history. I am Romanyi and have learned a strong kinship, even with differences in faith. I highly recommend this for those who who want to understand a bit more that is on the surface. Well done brother. Shchasty Arkadi
2022-05-21

2. My go-to podcast for historical information, clarity - Fantastic podcast. Unpacks myths and misinformation while providing clarity, background information, analysis and balance. I just finished listening to the Kishinev episode and I LOVED the personal story in the introduction and how Noam related it to the subject of this episode. As a psychotherapist I help clients to go back to the origins of their childhood stories which created their present reactivities because the haven’t been refreshed! These stories stayed as whole and sacred truths to live by, though the child had grow into an adult. The retelling of the Kishinev massacre was horrifying, while the greater historical impact of recovery and (some healing) are inspiring. Thank you for putting it all in perspective. It really helps to understand things more fully. Keep up this excellent work. יישר כוח!!! Dita Teitelbaum
2022-05-20

3. Fantastic Show for Anyone (..even if you aren’t Jewish!) - I am probably not your typical listener (as I am not Jewish) but I have come to really enjoy this podcast. I wanted to learn more about Israel after reading Daniel Gordis’ book on Israeli history (Concise History of a Nation Reborn) and this podcast really delivers. Noam is a superb and engaging host who continually provides context and detail beyond the history that is books. Thanks again for this and look forward to many more seasons! Rob Franson
2022-04-25

4. Great Podcast to learn world history - Wonderful way to learn about Jewish history. The podcast is very informative. I learned so much and on topics I never knew. Great production and picks on interesting topics. At this time of revisionist history i it refreshing to have an honest and fair representation of the history. Keep up the Great work!!!
2022-04-18

5. Informative and factual - I came across episode and ended up binge listening for episodes. As an Israeli and American, it’s hard not to feel singled out with anti-zionist rhetoric that is a form of todays modern antisemitism to delegitimize the pursuit of being Jewish. The episodes were interesting, factual and human. Great work, I look forward to more episodes and topics!
2022-01-24

6. Clear and Objective - Ever found yourself listening to someone speaking about a subject you are passionate about but wondering if that person is pursuing a specific agenda and giving you only the facts pertaining to that agenda, exaggerating certain events while minimizing others. This is the first podcast about Israel I have ever heard that is giving you the facts just the way they are! No exaggeration or minimization! And you get ALL the facts about a particular subject! Truly Exceptional Research work! Well Done!
2021-10-14

7. Was excited but left disappointed - I was eager to listen to the pod so that I could listen to crash courses of Israeli history throughout my day and learn some lesser known historical events. It was marketed as a podcast that teases out the grey areas and gives a respectful look into each side of the Palestinian Israeli conflict so I was disappointed after listening to five episodes that the host does not offer the same apologies to Palestinians as he does to the state of Israel. I don’t think there is anything wrong with being apologetic to certain difficult decisions Israel has had to make in its short history, but you cannot do this without offering the same thing to Palestinians. I was particularly off put by the fake news diatribe at the end of the Deir Yassin massacre episode. The host literally said that in the end Palestinians were murdered and then quickly segwayed into a hot take about how horrible this was for Israeli press and how he was confused/thought it was a shame that the media role out of one massacre could leave a legacy of distrust? Like babe…read that back first? Listening to this podcast is exhausting which is a shame because I genuinely wanted to learn more about Israeli history.
2021-09-29

8. Great Listen - I am not Jewish, but I’ve recently developed a strong interest in Israeli history and have been working to teach myself Hebrew. This podcast has been a great overview of history for anyone new to the major subjects. I’d suggest it to anyone looking for a straight forward take on Israel.
2021-07-13

9. Should be stars - Great content. Loved Episode -. Loving and but the background music is killing me nearly makes it impossible to listen to. I hope that I can make it through Episode because I am enjoying the content. Please stop with the low quality background music. Maybe if it was good background music and helped the telling of the story then great but the music you have is a distraction. Please consider changing it or removing it. Thanks for the great writing and performance.
2020-12-13

Into the Verse is dedicated to bringing you Torah that is timely and relevant to your life. Using the parsha and the Jewish calendar as inspiration, this podcast is filled with rich and uplifting insights based on analysis of the Hebrew text itself. Take a listen and enjoy! Into the Verse is a project of Aleph Beta, a Torah media company dedicated to spreading the joy and love of meaningful Torah learning worldwide. For our full library of over 1,000 videos and podcasts, please visit www.alephbe...

Release date: 2023-02-28

Comments

1. Grateful - In writing a review of yet another outstanding modality of biblical exposition, I wondered if relevant to indicate that my family’s appreciation of all things Aleph Beta comes from a non-Jewish perspective. I believe so. Aleph Beta through the superb efforts of Rabbi Fohrman and the talented team surrounding this latest effort (thank you Imu and others ) fulfills and extends the gift of the Torah to all the nations. Thank you for lifting up also, those of us who love the Jewish community from outside the city gate . Our family has been grateful to have found such treasure to enrich our lives.
2022-04-12

2. Into The Verse - Amazing New Podcast!! - Rabbi David Fohrman is a creative Torah genius! He presents his ancient Torah material in a manner that plays to our modern sensibilities. He brings Torah to life, and makes it feel relevant to our lives today. The first two episodes of this new podcast prove to be just as good as the conventional Aleph Beta presentation. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and jump into this new “hands free” version of Aleph Beta. Thank you Rabbi Fohrman and Imu!!!
2022-04-10

Seder Snippets is a pre- Pesach Podcast with Rabbi Reuven Brand, Rosh Kollel of the YU Torah Mitzion Kollel of Chicago, featuring a brief insight into the Haggadah delivered daily to enhance your Seder experience. For more Pesach Torah, please check out our Kollel's Pesach resources online at www.torahchicago.org

Release date: 2023-03-02

The Tikvah Fund is a philanthropic foundation and ideas institution committed to supporting the intellectual, religious, and political leaders of the Jewish people and the Jewish State. Tikvah runs and invests in a wide range of initiatives in Israel, the United States, and around the world, including educational programs, publications, and fellowships. Our animating mission and guiding spirit is to advance Jewish excellence and Jewish flourishing in the modern age. Tikvah is politically Zionist...

Release date: 2023-02-23

Comments

1. The Best Interviewer Around - Jonathan Silver is the most articulate, erudite, and insightful interviewer in the podcast universe. He brings on the show some of the most consequential, intellectually serious and thought-provoking guests and engages with them as if his mastery of the subject matter at hand equaled theirs. Absolutely superb podcast.
2022-05-24

2. On Yemenite Children - I started listening to the first/only and last episode on Yemenite Children. The entire thing started off with misleading stories. It’s - Yemenite children go “missing” from the hospital, hours after the mother has given birth. You can’t say it’s “not real” and that it doesn’t or hasn’t ever happened. It continues to happen to this day! As a Jewish person living in Israel, I’m disappointed, enraged and just so sad that this is an episode that is live and out there in the world. There are many problems in Israel- racism is most definitely one of the bigger ones (and I can tell you about it from personal experience). You cannot cover over the truth by calling the disappearance of Yemenite children a “conspiracy”. This episode was total trash. I hope you reconsider what you’re peddling as stories.
2022-05-18

3. An outstanding podcast. Intelligent, engaging, thoughtful and thought provoking. - An outstanding podcast. Intelligent, engaging, thoughtful and thought provoking. I am a committed Catholic and I believe that following the discussions on this podcast has added depth, breadth and value to my ability to apply the tools of my faith effectively towards promoting truth, hope, respect, and love in my community, as an American citizen, and member of the human race.
2021-08-02

4. Amazing - I am a gentile follower of Jesus. I love listening to the discussion about current events, Zionist topics, and the Bible. Jonathan Silver is incredibly smart and it is great hearing him run the interviews with his probing questions and clear understanding of the subject matter. Keep up the good work!
2021-05-16

5. Deep, thoughtful, inspiring - Don’t miss this podcast if you are looking for the best in Jewish intellectual contemporary thought. The interviewer does his research and is not afraid to ask challenging questions. The guests are world reknowned and inspiring in their genuine passion for moving the Jewish Story forward.
2020-11-22

6. So erudite and challenging - I love, love, love your podcast. It is so exciting, intellectually stimulating and informative. Your guests are phenomenal, articulate and thoughtful. I am learning so much about the vibrant life of American and world Jewry and Judaism which is mostly invisible in and to our daily lives. I had no idea about most of the thinking, dialoging, conflicts and collaborating which are taking place in the different Jewish communities. You have opened my eyes, ears, heart and mind to the many, varied threads of thoughts existing amongst us. Your interviews are so invigorating that I end up sending them to all my friends, acquaintances and family members. I want them to enjoy the podcast as much as I do. Thank you and please keep on doing what you are doing!!!! ... Still some of the best best best interviews with some of the brightest and most interesting people. Love it. Sometimes, when both Daliah and Gilad are both on the air together, I want to tear out my hair, or even better, to tell them to stop competing for who has a more relevant and insightful question. Especially Daliah. In almost every interview she succeeds in overshadowing at least one of Gilad’s questions by interjecting some fact, or trying to amplify the question, or redirecting the conversation, etc. It is soooooo annoying and soooooo disrespectful. Now, once she does it, I think, that Gilad’s maleness suffers a severe ego injury and then he starts to do the same to Daliah’s questions. And off they are on a power struggle and the listener becomes the collateral damage. Of course, then the interviewee becomes off balance, like a child between two fighting parents, and the interview suffers. All I can say is:”Stop It!” Behave like adults. You are both smart, informed and articulate. There is no need to show off. We love you both. Individually each of you are fabulous interviewers. Together.....well, not so much!
2020-04-28

7. Great - I am a new listener to The Tikvah Podcast and really love it. I just finished listening to the September podcast with Matti Friedman who is a wonderful and enlightening speaker and author. This episode brings more understanding to how and why Israel is Israel, and exactly what those living there must contend with in regards to the mentality of the Arab neighbors. May Israel always be supported by her people, wherever they might currently be residing. Also loved the August-September podcasts with Jack Wertheimer in regards to his book The New American Judaism. Excellent!
2020-01-23

8. Excellence - One of the best sources for very smart dialogue on Jewish affairs. The wide variety of topics covered range from history to politics to culture. It's a source of learning for the beginner to the very learned. The host, Jonathan Silver, asks sober, intelligent questions to the guests who are always well prepared and eloquent. Highly recommended.
2019-11-02

9. Very High Caliber Intellectual Stimulation - Even if I come at many of the topics discussed from a different perspective, I enjoy these conversations because of their substance and intellectual exploration. Rather than just repeating stock points like you get from many public intellectuals, the host here really explores the issue at hand in a rigorous and engaging manner.
2019-05-30

America has a fascination with Hasidic Jews; they show up frequently in memoirs, in newspapers, and even on Netflix. But these popular depictions don’t tell the whole story; they just tell the story the public wants to hear. What they hide is a complicated dance between Orthodox Judaism and those who leave the community, and a web of stereotypes that trap Hassidim, rebels, and the public alike. In this limited four-part series, Professor Naomi Seidman takes us on a deeply moving jou...

Release date: 2022-12-22

Comments

1. Listen to it today! - Naomi Seidman is an accomplished professor, but that doesn’t mean she’s overly immersed in academic language or impenetrable semantics. “Heretic In the House” creates a human connection between the listener and the many Jews interviewed to paint a picture of the community. Regardless of your faith and culture, it’s a fascinating listen, both sad, funny, discouraging, and hopeful.
2022-11-30

Listen in as Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg analyze pressing issues for 21st century American Judaism. Mixing their own analysis with interviews of leading thinkers, practitioners, and even "regular Jews," Dan and Lex look to push past the bounds of what it means to be Jewish in the 21st century. You can support Judaism Unbound at www.JudaismUnbound.com/donate.

Release date: 2023-02-24

Comments

1. Educating and Liberating - As a “Jewishly inclined” person who has hesitated to formally convert only because of my less-than-traditional ideas, this podcast has taught me so much and helped me see that yes, there is ample room for divergent thinkers within Judaism. I am indebted to the Judaism Unbound team (and guests!) for enriching my understanding of many facets of Judaism and solidify my decision to convert. Looking forward to many more episodes!
2022-10-17

2. This podcast is so important - I found Judaism Unbound a couple years ago and have been desperately trying to catch up since then, I wish I had known about it sooner. Not because I am behind, but because it brings so much life and vibrancy to my thinking on such a broad range of topics and ways of being in the world. I notice that when I don’t listen to JU for a while, I often fall into old traps of “not Jewish enough” or “not doing Jewish right” or “don’t know enough to be really Jewish.” But as comes to a close I am reflecting on how my belief in those claims directly decreases in proportion to how much I listen to this podcast, and how frequently I can remember that exists as a place to validate such a myriad of ways of being Jewish. I strongly recommend this podcast to anyone feeling the least bit curious, fired up, alienated by, enraged by, in love with, despondent about, indifferent to, etc etc, the Judaisms you have come across, and want to explore a new way in. Thank you Dan and Lex for making a space for so many important conversations.
2021-12-27

3. My aha moment… - I have danced around the idea of Judaism/converting for years. It’s never been completely earnest, in all honesty. Nevertheless, my curiosity has been on the upslope as of late, and then..this. I inadvertently listened to episode , and in walks my aha moment. I wasn’t looking for this class or anything, but it found me right on time. This particular podcast really shines a spotlight on the broad depth of Judaism, and now I have that “itch” to want to know more, immerse myself, ingest more, etc., and I am very appreciative for this. Hidden gems!
2021-11-19

4. So pumped for shmita!! - I returned to this podcast a few weeks ago and I’ve been loving listening to the backlog. I’ve especially connected to the unit on trans Jews. It was really cool to hear several of my role models talk about trans experience and Judaism in such empowering and healing ways. I’m really excited for the seasonal units on Elul and Shmita!!
2021-08-16

5. A Jewish Lifeline - I’ve had negative family experiences related to Judaism. I’ve had family members tell me I was too Jewish and others reject me for being not being Jewish enough. As a year old man, I still feel very anxious around my identity. But this podcast highlights that I’m not alone. Thank you.
2021-05-07

6. Jewish adaptations - Still wanted to leave a comment that you are my favorite Jewish podcast still! Love how in-depth your team is going into each subject. My second reason for leaving a review is because I’m finding the need for adaptation within Jewish practice very relevant right now with the spread of the corona virus. My shul just shut down Saturday Shabbat services, sent out a video of our shpiel and other unusual practices. Perhaps you guys are thinking about this but thought I would bring it up. Thanks for al the work you do!
2020-03-13

7. Suddenly my favorite podcast - Such inspiring and provocative conversations that touch on what it is to be a person, to form intentional community, to brave a changing world with an understanding of the past that envisions a future both intentional and flexible. I’m glad I started listening late in the game because any day I want to be inspired to new thoughts and action, I have hundreds of episodes to choose from. I’m a two-years-in-the-making Jewish convert, and of all the material I’ve sought out in this time (books, podcasts, and more), Judaism Unbound shines brightest. Not only do I learn so much about the Jewish world and Jewish ways of thinking both cultural and spiritual - I feel welcome to participate and engage with these ideas and communities. Everything Dan, Lex, and their guests discuss truly inspires me and I hungrily listen every chance I get.
2019-09-11

8. I’m in/amen - Really appreciated the last four episodes on disorganized Judaism, and especially the unit wrap. Such a fascinating conversation. As a day school head in SF, this is literally my community—the vanguard of Jewish identity in so many ways. I’m grateful for the thought-provoking engagement.
2019-08-29

9. Wow I am loving Judaism Unbound! - This podcast gives you an insight into modern Jewish thought. For me it has opened my mind up to what it means to be Jewish and it has given me hope that Judaism is going to continue to be a faith that shapes our world. Keep doing what you're doing guys. I love this podcast!
2018-11-05

Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's Jewish History Lectures. Please email questions or comments to rabbiwolbe@gmail.com

Release date: 2021-04-13

Comments

1. Thank you for this!! - I’m so glad i found this podcast. i’ve been a listener to this for a few years. some episodes i’ve listen to many times because there was so much information…..expansive historical knowledge. I haven’t found an inaccuracy yet. Because of my faith I haven’t listened to any episodes pertaining explicitly to messiah. I’ve been looking for the episode that briefly mentions “assumption of Moses”. The book of Jude in my King James actually acknowledges it so that is relevant. Alexander the Great bloodlessly conquering Jerusalem is fascinating. The Six Day War episode (wow!). I could go on and……. this podcast (for me) came from a spiritual source. Please keep up the phenomenal work.
2023-02-04

2. Ignorant on the Messiah - In Episode on False Messiahs, he makes several erroneous statements when addresses Jesus Christ (whom he will only refer to as ‘JC’) and Christianity’s claims and documents, which undermines his presentation. For example, he says that even Jesus’ followers claimed he broke Sabbath laws, which is false. The religious leaders claimed he broke Sabbath laws when, for example, Jesus did acts of mercy on the Sabbath—which demonstrated the leaders’ false notions of Sabbath. Jesus himself said he did not come to do away with one jot or tittle of the law, but to fulfill it. Moreover, Jesus’ statements against the leaders of his day were no different than that of MANY of the prophets against the leaders in their day: just read Isaiah, or Jeremiah, or Ezekiel, who also lived in generations of wickedness and the rejection of G-d’s messengers, leading (again) to the destruction of Temple. Bottom line: if you want to know why Jesus is the Messiah, read any one of the New Testament Gospels for yourself.
2022-12-10

3. Responding to critics - I would like to start off by saying that although I’m a fan of rabbi Wolbe and his podcasts, as with everything in life I pride myself by the honesty and unbiased stances I take on different subject matters. I wanted to respond to a couple of critics who I thought wrote unfair and simply untrue reviews in regards to rabbi Wolbe’s history podcasts. “Hear-n-Now” called rabbi Wolbe ignorant for heralding Moses as the greatest leader we or any people have ever had. Rabbi Wolbe has vast amounts of history on his fingertips and has formed an opinion about Moses’ leadership. Everyone is welcome to disagree. But categorizing that statement as “ignorant” shows a clear haughtiness and self-centeredness reserved for meaningless YouTube comments, not for a review section created to aid undecided podcast listeners in regards to which podcasts to download and enjoy. “jessicaweirdly” was upset that rabbi Wolbe made sweeping Islamophobic generalizations about Muslims. She respects the Rabbi’s opinion on how to dissect certain texts but was bothered that he didn’t choose “more magnanimous, fair language”. I think it is fairly obvious that this podcasts reflects rabbi Wolbe’s opinion on how to interpret the texts he is discussing. It is not his duty to be fair or magnanimous. It IS his responsibility to be honest and truthful when creating this podcast. If you want magnanimous language in regards to Muslims I recommend listening to a speech by congresswomen IIhan Omar or Rashida Tlaib.
2020-10-07

4. Disappointed — give me a more critical history - This is a highly credulous rendition of Jewish history, not suitable for anyone seeking an accurate account of actual events. If one wants a faith-affirming narrative untroubled by critical thought, maybe this will satisfy. If one wants an attempt at objectivity and truth, look elsewhere.
2020-07-09

5. Room for Improvement - I loved this, until the rabbi made sweeping generalizations about Muslims in episode . I am Jewish and I support Israel, but I must speak up against Islamophobic language, as Muslims are our brothers. I understand the points expressed are the rabbi’s individual interpretation of the sages’ texts, but he could have chosen more magnanimous, more fair language. Rabbi, please do better!
2018-12-20

6. I don’t even listen to music anymore... - Rabbi Wolbe’s podcasts... Absolutely mind blowing. Fact after fact, I can’t even imagine the preparation the Rav takes to make these podcasts. I would be listening to Rabbi Wolbe every time I drive/have my headphones in but I have run out of content a while ago. Then I discovered “This Jewish Life,” where you’ll find even more interesting and wide ranging podcasts. Hundreds! It’s funny- at this point I quote Rabbi Wolbe more than my Rabbis at home and I haven’t even met him! What we’re listening to now is the future of Torah Technology, and if it stays this way- using this new technological revolution to spread Torah EVERYWHERE- then BH we will see Mashiach soon! I have a whole list of personalities I’d like to hear a shiur on but I fear that they’re out of Rabbi Wolbe’s chronological order. But I’ll post anyway. Rav Kook Rabbi Akiva Eger Chazon Ish Maharal of Prague Maharsha Maharshal Kotzker Rebbe Rogatchover Gaon Chacham Ovadia Yosef The Soltoveitchik Dynasty Rabbi Moshe Feinstein Maggid of Mazritch Alter Rebbe The Rebbe (Chabad) How the Chassidic groups diverged, how each branch came to be (Satmer, Belz, Gerrer) Baba Sali Ben Ish Hai Rabb Aryeh Kaplan Rebbe Nachman of Breslov Hollywood Jewry? Another concept is Jewish Migration. How/Why/When jews moved in/out of popular Jewish locations. Rabbi, thank you for everything you do. You enlighten all of us and that’s why you’re the number one Jewish podcast in the world!
2018-11-04

7. Very enjoyable and thorough - Rabbi Wolbe does an excellent job at painting a picture of each person and event he covers. I like how he clearly is focused on how each topic is important in the broader scheme of Jewish History. Very clear and sophisticated, yet completely relatable. As usual. Thanks very much!
2017-07-12

An inside view of how Israel can warm your heart and make your blood boil. It’s a show by a journalist, a professor and an NGO professional who live in and love Israel even though it drives them crazy, and who each week discuss the latest in Israeli politics, culture, and society.

Release date: 2023-02-27

Comments

1. Just A Newbee - I just started to listen to this podcast, but I already shared some of it with my friends and family, a good sign. I like it very much and will continue to listen to it and share my reaction to it in future episodes. Every episode is clever, so articulate, funny, just pure delight. I listen to it while taking my morning mile walk and mile walk with my lovely dog, Max. This podcast makes my walks a delight, something to look forward to, rather than dread. I love you guys. Keep on being the way you are on this terrific program. Loved the Dana International edition. Would love more of the same. I rate it AAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!
2023-03-03

2. The Best - By far my favorite podcast, and not just those about Israel or Judaism or Jewishness. My favorite of all. There is heart, humor, thoughtfulness, sadness, joy, indignance, love — every episode is an exploration of the incredible tapestry of politics, personalities, art, culture, history, religion, and humanness that makes Israel the country it is. I learn something, I laugh, I roll my eyes, and I usually cry at least once while listening, which I’ve realized is the ultimate compliment. Thank you to Noah Efron and his cohosts for keeping me tethered to the home of my heart in such an honest and warm way. A thousand stars!
2022-07-11

3. Excellent Show - I feel like i am listening to thoughtful friends talking about what its like to live in Israel. Topics are politics, culture, and personal small pleasures of of living in Israel. I started listening to this show after having visited Israel. It helps flesh out the pain and pleasure of being a Jewish citizen of this complicated country.
2022-06-21

4. for the children who no longer read - someone needs to translate this obscure phrase for the government: Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold; Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world, The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere The ceremony of innocence is drowned; The best lack all conviction, while the worst Are full of passionate intensity.
2022-06-16

5. You’re just too good to be truuuueee - Can’t take my ears off of youuuuuuu You are like heaven to heaaaar Won’t be back next week, I feeeaaar This week’s new show has arriiiived And I thank G-d I’m aliiiive You’re just too good to be truuuee Can’t take my ears off of youuuu Buhhh dah buhhh dah buhhh dah dah dahhhh baduhhhh dah buhhhh dah DAAHHHH Ok, though. Honestly it’s an amazing podcast (and I listen to a lot of podcasts so boy would I know). Noah is the glue that holds it all together. I love his unabashedly pointless verbal pyrotechnics, his zany on-air persona. It reminds me of Kinbote from Pale Fire. And the other side of Noah: sincere, humble (that’s just how he was raised), intellectually rigorous, willing to give the benefit of the doubt, always willing to engage with someone who disagrees deeply with him, and willing to stand by his opinion even if he’s outnumbered just because he thinks it is morally right (and always able to reconsider and change of it is warranted). The man deserves his own show! And then there’s the rest of the crew, bringing contrasting personalities, experiences, and different perspectives in. I’m always excited about I see who will be on. That said, there is no voice from the exact center or right of center. They’re all leftists (sometimes off the deep end), so just know what to expect when you turn on an episode. The podcast might actually benefit and grow with some intellectuals from the other side. Just sayin’! The rhythm of the show, with all the lines and in-jokes that repeat from episode to episode always make it feel like joking with an old friend. Noah knows what he is doing! Keep it up!
2022-05-13

6. Only five stars? - Anyone who has listened to this remarkable podcast may wonder, like me, why only five stars can be awarded when the podcast deserves at least twice as many. If you aren’t able to immigrate to Israel but want to learn an insider’s view of what it’s like to live in the the country, you’ll welcome the erudite and thoughtful voices that give listeners of this show the depth and understanding of some of the most complex issues facing the country today. It’s like attending a graduate seminar with discussions and debates on Israeli history and culture, literature, Middle East politics, Palestinian relations, Zionism and often includes heartwarming personal stories of life in Israel, family histories, and even the reasons why Tel Aviv is the best city in the world to live in. Thank you Noah and Alison, Miriam, Don, Ohad and Sally for bringing Israel to those of us who aren’t able to live there but who love it all the same. -Bruce Black
2022-03-15

7. Inspiring - I'm not particularly interested in Judaism or Israel but I look forward to this podcast each week. I always listen to it as soon as it comes out because I so enjoy the atmosphere, the musical writing, and the respectful debate among intelligent friends. Most amazingly, it's inspired me to start writing myself, about my own interests but in -hopefully- the wordplayful style that Noah's prose has taught me. Thank you for the work that goes into making this art.
2022-01-09

8. there are million stories in the sacred country - An intelligent, informative, and engaging podcast that, in each episode, tells a few of the millions of stories of Israel, with a regular dose of dad humor courtesy of the host (he might not like to brag, but he is a dad). The stories are often fascinating and ones you would not know about from the mainstream media. The musical interludes between segments are a great way to learn about new musical talents. And the end notes inform about odd annual celebrations you probably never imagined existed. The podcast does lean strongly left, as some critics have noted, and includes occasional absurdly nasty screeds by guest hosts (though even they have stories worth hearing). Thus, it's not surprising to see positive reviews of the podcast's politics from members of far-left Israel-hating orgs like IfNotNow. Thankfully, Noah respects the humanity of all, not just of like-minded Leninists, and, as a yeshiva-educated an observant person, feels the millenia-old indesctructible bond between Jews and the land of Israel; a pity he doesn't express it more.
2021-11-08

9. My favorite podcast - Listening to this podcast has motivated me to get out of bed for my long runs early on Sunday mornings for over a year now (Like Noah, I don’t mean to brag, but I’ve listened to the show now over hundreds of miles across DC and suburban Maryland). Its nuanced and informative take to Israel is what I most look forward to in podcasts each week and I always learn new things about the country and its culture — especially its music!
2021-08-22