Stories We Tell

Latest Episodes:

The Brisket Jan 24, 2019

Show notes

There once was a rabbi who traveled to many cities, and he was often invited to stay and have meals wherever he went. Everyone was very hospitable and would ask him what he liked. However, they would then serve him the one thing he said he didn't like: brisket! Listen to this story find out why this happened everywhere he went, and what we can learn from his experience.

The spoonful of oil Jan 17, 2019

Show notes

There was a young man who wanted to learn the secret of happiness. He sought out the advice of a wise man, who was too busy to talk with him at that moment but gave him a task: walk around and carry a spoon with two drops of oil and be careful to not let them spill. Listen to find out how this seemingly strange assignment taught the boy an important lesson.

The Stolen Smell Jan 10, 2019

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Jacob was poor, and had only a piece of bread to eat. Setting out in search of something to put on it, he happened upon a steaming pot of soup in the kitchen of an inn. Though tempted to steal a little, he stopped himself from doing so, and instead enjoyed the wonderful aroma. It was then that the innkeeper caught him and insisted on being paid for the smell. They went to the rabbi to settle the dispute… and his answer may surprise you.

The Brother And The Car Jan 03, 2019

Show notes

A man was very proud of his new car—it was sleek, new, and everything about it screamed luxury and comfort. One day, the man sees a young boy looking at the car, so he starts a conversation and tells the boy that it was a gift from his brother. The boy was shocked, but what the boy says next is a bigger surprise to the man. Listen to Cantor Ellen Dreskin retell the story, and for a written version, see A Brother Like That in Chicken Soup for the Soul: 20th Anniversary Edition.

The Wedding Gift Dec 27, 2018

Show notes

When the king's daughter gets engaged, he plans an elaborate and exquisite wedding for her. Most importantly, the king tells his oldest son that he'll cover any expenses as long as the son shows up in the most amazing carriage, wearing the most elegant clothing and jewelry, and with his younger brother in tow, all in honor of the bride. Does the older son earn this gift from the king, or does he fall short? Rabbi Marc Katz retells the story.

Who Is Your Teacher? Dec 20, 2018

Show notes

This is the tale of a rabbi who spent his whole life studying and teaching Torah. As he became a well-known and beloved teacher, he started to think highly of himself. One day he had a dream that he was visited by an angel, who predicted that, in the "world to come," a local baker would be appointed as his heavenly attendant. Disappointed in what he perceived as her lowly status, he sought out the baker… and made a surprising discovery. This story, retold by Rabbi Leora Kaye, will make you stop and think about who your teachers are, and how you see yourself and others. You can find a version of this story in The jewish Story Finder, entitled, A Worthy Companion on page 83.

Just Count on Yourself Dec 06, 2018

Show notes

One day, a girl was frustrated because somebody had shoved her on the subway. Another day, she was frustrated because another girl said something rude to her at school. Both times, the girl didn't say anything to the person who frustrated her—and in this, her parents found an important lesson. Rabbi Leora Kaye retells the story. A written version of this story can be found in Stories for Public Speakers by Morris Mandel.

Who Is Watching Nov 22, 2018

Show notes

Rabbi Rachel lives in a big city, and every once in a while when the hustle and bustle catches up to her, she takes the train a few hours away to reconnect with nature. During one of these trips, her taxi driver asks for some help—he wants to steal some food from a farm, and wants Rabbi Rachel to shout if she sees anyone watching. What does Rabbi Rachel do? Rabbi Ben David, the senior rabbi at Adath Emanu-El in Mount Laurel, NJ retells the story.

Sparks Of Light Nov 15, 2018

Show notes

At the beginning of time, the Earth was wild and full of darkness—and then, in a moment, a voice shocked through the darkness: "Let there be light." Shira Kline retells the story. For a written version of this story, see The Shattering of the Vessels and The Gathering of the Sparks, in "The Jewish Story Finder" by Sharon Barcan Elswit.

Hero Israel Nov 08, 2018

Show notes

Sara is a great listener. She listens to everything, with her mind like a sponge soaking up as much teaching as possible—but sometimes she hears things a little differently than others. What happens when her classmates find out? Rabbi Josh Weinberg tells his original story.

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