The Shmuz

The Shmuz Live 33 - The Love of Money Mar 05, 2021

Parsha in Depth - Vayakahel Mar 07, 2021

Parsha in Depth - Ki Sisa Feb 28, 2021

#268 - 6 constant Mitzvahs Mar 06, 2019

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#267 - We Only Fight With Friends Mar 07, 2019

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#266 - Yom Kippur 5778 Mar 08, 2019

Appreciating and Achieving Greatness See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#264- Tisha BAv 5777 Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#265- Rosh HaShanah 5778 Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#247 - Teshuvah Shmuz 5775 - Maybe its My Fault Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#248- Stop Playing Gd Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#255- Teshuva Shmuz 5776 Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#253- Learning to Love Hashem Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#251- Kindliness is Gdliness Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#252- If I Were a Rich Man Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#254- Biases and Prejudice Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#256- A Mitzvah to Listen to the Rabbis Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#257- Is it True Love-Dating Shmuz Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#258- HASHEM Loves Me Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#259- Whats Wrong with a Rainbow Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#260- Holy Pleasures Mar 09, 2019

A World Unraveling See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#239- Being Wise to Yourself Mar 09, 2019

Being Wise to Yourself See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#240- The Gratitude Principle Mar 09, 2019

The Gratitude Principle See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#241- The Gratitude Attitude Mar 09, 2019

The Gratitude Attitude See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#242- Marriage the Second Time Around Mar 09, 2019

Marriage the Second Time Around See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#243- Needs of the Soul Mar 09, 2019

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#246- Tisha Beav A World Unraveling Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Shemini Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Tazriah-Metzorah Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Acharei Mot-Kedoshim Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Emor Mar 09, 2019

Parsha in Depth - Emor See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#225- Heaven's Judgements Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Bechokosai Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Bamidbar Mar 09, 2019

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#226- Respect, Can a Marriage Survive without it? Mar 09, 2019

Respect, Can a Marriage Survive without it? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#227- Marriage, A Unit of One, and I am the One Mar 09, 2019

Marriage, A Unit of One, and I am the One See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#229- Marriage: Communication in Marriage Mar 09, 2019

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#228- Marriage: I Can't Respect Him Her Mar 09, 2019

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#230- Marriage: The Art of the Apology Mar 09, 2019

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#231- Marriage: Women Are From Venus Mar 09, 2019

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#232- Tisha BAv What we Lost Mar 09, 2019

Tisha BAv What we Lost See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#233- If We Knew What Our Prayers Do Mar 09, 2019

If We Knew What Our Prayers Do See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#234- Man Dependent on HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

Man Dependent on HASHEM See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#235- One Small Step For a Man Mar 09, 2019

One Small Step For a Man See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#236- How to Talk so that HASHEM Listens Mar 09, 2019

How to Talk so that HASHEM Listens See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#237- Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 - The Damage of Sin Mar 09, 2019

Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 - The Damage of Sin See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#238- Teshuvah Shmuz 5774 Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayeitzei Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayeshev Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayishlach Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Miketz Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayigash Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayichi Mar 09, 2019

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#221- Super Hurricanes and Changing Realities Mar 09, 2019

Super Hurricanes and Changing Realities See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Chumash in Depth - Shemos Mar 09, 2019

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#222- Dealing with Failure Mar 09, 2019

Dealing with Failure See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#223- Reasons and Causes Mar 09, 2019

Reasons and Causes See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Chumash in Depth - VaEirah Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Bo Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Bishalach Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - YIsro Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Mishpatim Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Ki Tisa Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Terumah Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Va'yakhel/Pekudi Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Va'yikrah Mar 09, 2019

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Parsha in Depth - Tzav Mar 09, 2019

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#224- Ahmadinejad, the Palestinians and the Modern Purim Story Mar 09, 2019

Ahmadinejad, the Palestinians and the Modern Purim Story See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#202 - Outcomes and Intentions Mar 09, 2019

Outcomes and Intentions See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#203 - Disney Land USA, the ADD Generation Mar 09, 2019

Disney Land USA, the ADD Generation See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#204 - Listening to your messages Mar 09, 2019

Listening to your messages See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#205- The Giant Within Mar 09, 2019

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#206 - Teshuva Shmuz Mar 09, 2019

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#209 The Whatever Generation Mar 09, 2019

The Whatever Generation See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#211 - Putting G-d Back into the Relgion Mar 09, 2019

Putting G-d Back into the Relgion See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#212 - Putting Joy Back into LIfe Mar 09, 2019

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#213 - The Tiny Giant Called "I" Mar 09, 2019

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#214 - Hashem Waits for our Teshuvah Mar 09, 2019

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#215 - Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds Mar 09, 2019

Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#216 - Love the Life You Live Mar 09, 2019

Fleeting Glimpses of the Upper Worlds See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#217- The Incredibe Power of Prayer Mar 09, 2019

The Incredibe Power of Prayer See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#218- Understanding Suffering Mar 09, 2019

Understanding Suffering See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#219 - Looking back on a Year Passed Mar 09, 2019

Looking back on a Year Passed See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Chumash in Dept Introduction Mar 09, 2019

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#220 - Difficult Life Situation Mar 09, 2019

Difficult Life Situation See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Chumash in Depth - Noach Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Bereishis Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Lech Licha Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Vayearah Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Chayei Sarah Mar 09, 2019

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Chumash in Depth - Toldos Mar 09, 2019

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#186 G-d for the Perplexed Mar 09, 2019

We are commanded to love G-d. We are commanded to fear G-d. Yet we really don't know that much about G-d. We are certainly aware that HASHEM created the world and all that it contains, but how do we move beyond that to actually fearing and loving HASHEM? First, we must become aware of HASHEM's presence and His involvement in our lives, concepts that, while noble, may seem so far removed from our world that they don't seem attainable. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#187 Self Mastery - The Key to Good Mar 09, 2019

I know that middos make the man. I understand that my character traits define every relationship that I am involved in. And I wish I were more generous, humble, and caring. But what can I do about it? I am who I am. This Shmuz focuses on how it is that our gedolim changed their very nature and demonstrates the Torah's system for developing our middos. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#188 Rich Man, Poor Man - The Ferris Wheel of Life Mar 09, 2019

Lehman brothers fell. The market is down. Real estate is down. Many people have lost their jobs. About the only thing that is up these days is sales of anti-depressants. Putting some perspective on the events that we are living through, this Shmuz focuses on some of cycles of life and what our attitude towards them should be. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#189 Encounters with G-d Mar 09, 2019

Faith is a sort of vague, hopeful idealism. I have faith that your check won't bounce. I don't know, but I hope. Knowledge is far more concrete. I know that fire burns and that heavy objects fall. And while both faith and knowledge seem commendable, when it comes to relating to HASHEM, both fall short of what a human is capable of. We have the capacity to experience HASHEM. Not only to have faith that He is present, not only to know it with absolute certainty, but to actually experience HASHEM. To reach that level, we must learn to encounter HASHEM. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#190 My Rebbe Mar 09, 2019

The Chofetz Chaim network consist of high schools, batei medrashim, kollels, kiruv centers, shuls, and rabbonim and teachers across the country from communities as diverse as Milwaukee, Rochester, Los Angeles, the Five Towns, Miami, Cherry Hill, Manalapan, and Yerushalayim - an empire of thousands of talmidim following in the mesorah given to them by their Rebbe. This Shmuz is both a personal tribute and a recognition of the great gaon, Reb Alter Hencoch Hanoch Lebowitz. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#191 Combatting Robotic Judaism Mar 09, 2019

We all have bitachon. We all know that HASHEM determines our fate and all the events that will befall us. The problem is that this concept remains so far removed that while we know it on one level, in our day to day lives, it's non-existent. So while we say we trust in HASHEM, we live our lives in contradiction to this. This Shmuz focuses on making our beliefs real and taking our bitachon from the potential to the actual See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#192 HASHEM Really Cares Mar 09, 2019

If we could imagine the most kindly, giving, loving person and the take each of those traits and multiply them by 10,000, we still wouldn't begin to illustrate the tremendous loving kindness that HASHEM has towards Creation. That being said, the only question is: why don't I feel it? Why isn't this something that is obvious to me? This Shmuz focuses us on our relationship to HASHEM and what it takes to realize that HASHEM really cares. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#193 A Clash of Civilizations Mar 09, 2019

On the Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran Radio on Oct. 20, 2006, the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared: "[America] should understand that the message from the peoples of the region . . . is manifested in a single slogan: "Death to America!"While America's foreign policy is set on appeasement and understanding, Iran is within months of attaining nuclear arms capacity, and so the threats are no longer mere slogans. The West seems to be ignoring the reality that we are not witnessing a war being waged by country against country, but rather a clash of civilizations that threatens to engulf the globe. This is an essential Shmuz for putting some perspective on the volatile times we live in and making sense of a chaotic new world See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#194 Tisha B'Av- What we can do to bring the Geulah Mar 09, 2019

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#195 - Stop Playing G-d! Mar 09, 2019

I know exactly what it is that I need! I need to marry that woman; get that job; my child has to get into that class - and HASHEM just won't listen! I have tried to teach HASHEM. I have tried to speak to him. I even daven. But nothing helps. For some strange reason, HASHEM won't give me what I need. 85% of our Emunah problems come from just such thinking: assuming that I know exactly what it is that I need and then having questions on HASHEM when He doesn't deliver it. Part of being a mature, thinking person is recognizing that I am exactly that - a person made of flesh and blood, here for a few short years. I come into this world while things are in full swing. I leave before I have much of a chance to sort things out. Yet I have the arrogance to think that I truly get it, that I know what is best for me. This Shmuz introduces us to one of the most fundamental concepts in our serving HASHEM: recognizing that HASHEM cares more about me than I do, that He knows far better than I do what I need, and will do what is best for me five years from now, ten years from now, in this world, and in the World to Come. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#196 - I'd be the first to Thank HASHEM if Mar 09, 2019

The Chovos Ha'Levovos explains that one of the most powerful driving forces in our serving HASHEM should be a sense of appreciation. We should be filled with a powerful feeling that I am the recipient of much good; that I am constantly benefiting from all that HASHEM has bestowed upon me. The sense that I am constantly receiving should fill me with a recognition that nothing that I could do would ever pay back for what HASHEM has given me. Yet, often that isn't the sense that we feel-it seems far more common to feel "of course I would be the first to thank HASHEM if there were anything to thank him for-but my life stinks." This Shmuz focuses on a perspective change that allows us to enjoy the great wealth that we possess and our unaware of. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#197 - Teshuvah Shmuz 5770 - Limiting Beliefs Mar 09, 2019

1. To fear HASHEM 2. To go in all of His ways.3. To love HASHEM.4. To serve Him with all of you heart and your soul. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#198 - Life Transforming Moments Mar 09, 2019

Sir Winston Churchill is quoted as saying: Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing had happened. The reality is that all of us have moments of truth: short lived burst of inspiration and clarity when we truly get it- when we fundamentally understand why we are here and what we are capable of. One of the great secrets of life is to capture those moments and use them to catapult our growth. This Shmuz introduces us to those often missed Life Transforming Moments and shows us the techniques to utilize them effectively. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#199 - Lashon Harah- Mindless Chatter Mar 09, 2019

Whether we are aware of it or not whether we admit it or not-- We all speak Lashon Harah. And herein lies one of the great mysteries: The Rambam defines Lashon Harah as words that hurt words that damage. Yet, we are nice people. We arent malicious or mean spirited, and we certainly wouldnt do something to intentionally hurt another person. Yet, we regularly speak, words that hurt words that damage the question is why? This Shmuz focuses us on the fact that one of the biggest causes of Lashon Harah is simply not recognizing the effect of our words, and the impact that they have on other people. And therefore the solution is simple: to recognize the gravity of the words that we speak, and almost effortlessly we can remove one of the greatest obstacles to our growth and functionally be much better people. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#201 - Chanukah - The Power given to Man Mar 09, 2019

Chanukah - The Power given to Man See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#169 Anger Taming the Monster Within Mar 09, 2019

We've all had that moment when we lost it and said something we shouldn't have said -- something we later regretted.The intriguing part is that when the heat of the moment has passed, not only do we feel badly about what was said, often, we can't understand what came over us? "It was like I was possessed or something". This Shmuz #169 Anger- Taming the Monster Within, deals with some of the mechanics of anger in the human, and by understanding why we get furious, we gain insight into what we can do about it. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#170 Sweet Revenge Mar 09, 2019

The Rishonim tell us that nothing is sweeter then revenge. When a person feels he has been wronged, he waits - scheming and dreaming of ways to even up the score. If this is so instinctive a trait in the human, how can the Torah expect us to eliminate it? And even more significantly, revenge by definition is justified; I am only returning to him what he did to me. Why would the Torah demand that we avoid it? This Shmuz deals with a different perspective on revenge and offers us a vantage point for dealing with many life situations. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#171 Don't Sweat the Small Stuff Mar 09, 2019

We all have those moments in life: a demanding boss, difficult people, situations that spin out of control. Learning how to effectively deal with trying circumstances goes a long way towards a happy, successful life.If I am easygoing by nature, the secret to handling these situations is straightforward: follow my temperament. But what if that isn't my natural bent? What if I allow things to get to me? Or what if, over and over again, I just seem to lose it? This Shmuz offers a perspective on life that allow us to more easily deal with the trying moments that come our way. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#172 Tisha B'Av 2000 Years Later - Where Are We? Mar 09, 2019

For almost 2,000 years, the Jewish people have been driven from land to land across the globe. Exiled from our home with the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash, we have been forced from continent to continent and country to country - tortured, oppressed, and banished. For a short while, we find haven in one country, only to be kicked out again and chased to the next place in a never-ending series of tragedies. This reality brings many questions: Why is the Jewish people so oppressed? Why is it that the other nations stand up to destroy us in every generation? Why is it that the one universal law of history is that everyone hates the Jew? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#173 Children of HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

Am I worthy to ask for even more than what I have been given? Why should HASHEM grant my requests? This Shmuz deals with our relationship with HASHEM, and helps us focus on some basic issues of davening and bitachon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#174 The illusion of reality Mar 09, 2019

The illusion of reality See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#175 Rosh Hashana Prep - Yom Ha Din Mar 09, 2019

"Dip the apple in the honey, have a good sweet new year." We teach our children that touching song, and that is what we all wish for: a good sweet year with bracha and hatzlacha in all that we do. But that often isn't the case. If we look back on previous years we see many things that were sweet, but also things that weren't. Some parts of our lives are downright bitter and we wish they'd never occurred. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#176 A Diamond with a Flaw Mar 09, 2019

The difference in value between a perfect diamond and an almost-perfect diamond can be a king's ransom. With the same cut, clarity, and color, a flawless ten-carat diamond might be worth two hundred dollars, while a diamond with a tiny flaw can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. That's right. The flawed diamond is worth more. Why? Because a completely flawless diamond is a fake. Real diamonds have imperfections. They may be small and almost unnoticeable, but they are flaws all the same. In fact, looking for imperfections is one of the methods professionals use to determine whether a diamond is a real gem or just cubic zirconium. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#177 Being Grateful Mar 09, 2019

This Shmuz deals with a basic concept in our becoming effective human beings: developing the trait of appreciation. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#178 To One Person You May Be the Whole World Mar 09, 2019

While we may be aware of the influence that our thoughts and attitudes have on the way that we act, we rarely focus on the effect that we have on others. After all, who am I? Am I so important that I can really change other people? Do my actions really sway them? While this may be true for our relationship with most people, for each of us there are a few individuals on whom we have a profound influence. This Shmuz focuses on the concept that to the whole world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the whole world. By focusing on this, we come to a better understanding of the impact that we have on others and how we can use that opportunity for the best possible results. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#179 The Commitments of a Jew Mar 09, 2019

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#180 Why We Want Mosiach Now Mar 09, 2019

Since the time that we were young children, we were taught, "We want Moshiach now!" This concept is not the exclusive domain of fringe elements of Jewry; rather, it is a basic tenet of our religion. The Rambam counts it as one of the Thirteen Main Principles, and if one denies it, he is considered a heretic with no portion in the World to Come. And so, we daven for Moshiach. We sing songs about Moshiach. We wait for Moshiach. But do we understand why? Do we understand what it is that we're waiting for? This Shmuz focuses on what life will be like in the times of Moshiach, and why in fact we anxiously await his appearance. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#181 Emunah in Difficult Times Mar 09, 2019

This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach that we should have in these trying times. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#182 Tolerating Evil: A Perspective on Recent Events Mar 09, 2019

This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach that we should have in light of recent events. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#183 With Perfect Faith: Bitachon in Turbulent Times. Mar 09, 2019

For those of us paying bills and trying to make ends meet, dealing with the uncertainty in the marketplace today has become a major issue. This Shmuz deals with the attitude and approach with which to view current events. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#184- The Galus Mentality Mar 09, 2019

He's got money." "They come from a well-to-do family." "He's a man of means." It is often difficult to sense the influence that society has upon our way of thinking until certain events transpire and bring them to light. The recent financial meltdown is one of those events. It's a chance to see how much we have adopted from outside influences. One of the negative values that we have picked up from the society we live in is rating people by their financial success, where money becomes the sole measure of "making it." It has gotten to the point that for many people, their self-worth is directly tied to their net worth. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#185 Responsibility Mar 09, 2019

The adult is mature; the child is immature. The hallmark of the immature is to shirk responsibility; the characteristic of the mature is to take responsibility. While we understand that so much of being an effective human being is based on being responsible, the message that comes to us from society at large is "I'm not responsible," and "It's not my fault." It's almost counter-cultural to be responsible. This Shmuz focuses us on the role that responsibility plays in all of our relationships and its significance in allowing us to reach our potential. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#152 - In G-d's Image Mar 09, 2019

Shmuz Info Coming Soon... See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#153 - Marriage: A Work in Progress Mar 09, 2019

Each one of us stands under the chuppah starry-eyed, knowing full well that we have found eternal love and bliss.Yet, something happens between that moment and real life. The reality is that getting married is easy, but staying married isn't . This Shmuz is Part I of a Marriage series that deals with the essential of creating long lasting Shalom Bayis. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#155 - Chanuka: Flexi-dox Judaism Mar 09, 2019

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#154 - PART II Marriage: A Work in Progress Mar 09, 2019

Each one of us stands under the chuppah starry-eyed, knowing full well that we have found eternal love and bliss.Yet, something happens between that moment and real life. The reality is that getting married is easy, but staying married isn't . This Shmuz is Part II of a Marriage series that deals with the essential of creating long lasting Shalom Bayis. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#156 - Get Out of Debt Mar 09, 2019

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#157 - Learning to Love Learning Mar 09, 2019

Shmuz info coming soon...buts its a really good Shmuz! Be well everyone.-Yechiel See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#158 -Me & My Big Mouth Mar 09, 2019

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#159 - 212 Degrees - Just One Degree Hotter Mar 09, 2019

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#160 - Purim: Sheep to the Slaughter and Concert Bans Mar 09, 2019

When Adar enters we increase Joy. Yet how can we be happy when we live in such troubling times? From rockets falling daily on S'derot, to the brutal massacre of 8 of our Yeshiva Bochurim in Yeshivat Merkas HaRav -- It has been difficult to feel joy. In the midst of it all many are troubled by the recent ban by Gadolim on a concert in America. This Shmuz attempts to make sense of the events we are living through, and offers a perspective on our times. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#161 - April 15th: The Test of Emunah Mar 09, 2019

To most of us, April 15th is nothing more than a deadline for filing our personal taxes. But when a person begins thinking about life from a broader perspective, they come to recognize that April 15th is a great test -- It is a test of my beliefs in practice. Do I truly believe that HASHEM runs this world and not I? Do I truly believe that HASHEM determines how much money I am to make this year? Do I somehow believe that I will only get that amount if I bend the rules a bit?And the final test comes when I sign on the words:"Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return and accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, they are true, correct, and complete."Then I face the challenge: Do my actions fit my beliefs? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#162 Learning to Care Mar 09, 2019

Of course, he's a nice guy. Everyone is a nice guy. Yet how do you explain all of the pettiness and downright nasty things that people do to one another on an ongoing basis? This Shmuz focuses us on one of the most important functions in a human: learning to truly care about another human being and sharing his plight. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#163 Only the Good Die Young Mar 09, 2019

Is there an explanation for a woman in her mid-thirties, the mother of four children, to be struck down by cancer? Does it make sense that a forty-year-old should take a jump shot on a basketball court and die in mid-air? It seems that we are witnessing more and more young people dying. The question is: why? This Shmuz focusing on understanding the reason behind all human suffering. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#164 I Hate Critic Mar 09, 2019

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#165 The Art Of Mar 09, 2019

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#168 - Emunah Mar 09, 2019

The Rishonim tell us that the most assured way to come to belief in HASHEM is to look out at the world. When a person sees the beauty of the universe; the conformity of every part working together as a unit, everything so orderly and so reliable--the sun rising every morning exactly at the appointed time; the tides always pulling in the pre-described manner; the forces of nature all so seemingly untamed, yet always performing within a predictable, set pattern; all diverse parts conforming to a master plan--the world itself cries out: there is a Master to this house!Yet, many intelligent, educated individuals look at this very phenomenon, study it, discuss it- and don't see HASHEM. Quite the opposite they attribute it all to some lucky roll of some cosmic dice. All of this wisdom just evolved, the entire plan just happened. How can we reconcile the undeniable evidence of a creator with the reality that many, many people just deny it? And how does it affect our own belief system?This Shmuz explores some of the basics of Emunah, and brings us to a deeper understanding of what causes a person to believe or not believe. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#166: Everybody is doing it Mar 09, 2019

We live in times when society at large has lost its moral compass. Particularly in the United States, once a bastion of family values and morality, we now watch daily as new innovations in decadence and promiscuity pour forth. We can't open a newspaper without being exposed to a new depth of moral decay. Ideas, concepts, and images that wouldn't have been accepted in the most base of publications a generation ago are now common place in the most respected ones. We may be tempted to assume that this doesn't affect us. After all, we are different. We don't buy into the culture of the times. And while we may feel self-assured and secure in our position, the reality is that we are human, so it can't help but affect us. The question is: what can we do about it?This Shmuz explores the influence that society has upon us, and offers practical insights to deal with it. . See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#167 - Sefiras Ha'Omer Countdown to Ka'balas Ha'Torah Mar 09, 2019

We all know the importance of learning, and we certainly value it in our daily lives. Yet, somehow that sense of significance doesn't always translate into reality. there may be many days that we don't learn as much as we can, and if pushed to the wall, all of us would admit that we could be learning more. But we're not. Why is this? If we claim to truly value Torah, if we admit to its vitality in our lives, how is it that we just don't seem to be learning as much as we know we can. This explores the true motivations to learn and offers some insightful perspectives on increasing our involvement in learning Torah. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#138 - The Potential and The Present Mar 09, 2019

"Considering where I come from and what I've been through, I'm doing pretty well..." While this may be a comforting position to take, the question a person must ask themselves is: is this really all that I can be? What if I were to stop making excuses? What if I was to truly hold myself accountable to live up to my potential? What if I was to go full blast - how great could I be? This question is essential for growth, but it is also one of our greatest pitfalls. If we don't clearly see how much we are capable of, we cannot chart the course toward our potential. However, with a realistic view of where we are now and a clear understanding of what we could become might lead to depression. This Shmuz focuses us on maintaining a balance between the two views needed for steady growth: a clear understanding of where we are now and a vivid image of what we can be, even if we won't reach those levels for many, many years. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#137 - Being Sensitive Mar 09, 2019

Almost all of the people that we deal with are reasonable, well intentioned individuals. And so too, am I. Yet, in the course of life, there is conflict, hurtful words, vengeful acts And, in that rare moment of self honesty, I realize that everything that happens isn't the "other guys fault". I too, am to blame. There have been situations where I acted in a manner that was cold and callous. There have been times when I acted with cruelty and malice. The question is why? It's not that I am not a nice guy, I know I am. Yet there are times when that's not the way I act. The question is why would a nice, caring individual act in a manner very inconsistent with that image? And more significantly what can I do about it?This Shmuz focuses us on one of the keys to growing in all human relationships: learning to focus on the Inner Condition how people actually feel, and learning to ignore the Outer Condition the show that people put on to hide what is actually going on in their heart. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#139 - The Power of Speech Mar 09, 2019

We know that the Torah is very exacting in regards to Loshon Horah: there are 17 negative and 14 positive commandments concerning disparaging speech. In fact, the Rambam paskens like the Gemara, that the sin of Loshon Horah is worse than the sins of Idol worship; illicit relations, and bloodshed. The question is why? Of all of our activities why does the Torah see fit that this one should be dealt with so severely? What is so egregious, so horrific? After all its only words.. ..This Shmuz deals with the Torah's view of the power of the spoken word, and its effect on human relationships. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#141 - Parenting Part IV - Sibling Rivalry Mar 09, 2019

Since the time of Kain and Hevel, it seems a given that brothers fight. Even in the most refined home, where individuals are polite and respectful, siblings take liberties with each other that they wouldn't dare take with outsiders- it is almost as if an unwritten law permits the torture of siblings. What is even more surprising is that individuals we know, good people, who outside the home are so courteous and caring, act very differently when they are amongst their closest family -- What is even more shocking is when those "People", turn out to be you and I. The question is why? Why does the very closeness and attachment we share with family bring out contention, and what can we do about it? This Shmuz explores some of the forces that drive sibling rivalry, and offers strategies to deal with it, whether in the role of parents or sibling. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#140 - The Arabs and The Jews Mar 09, 2019

The Palestinians have aspirations of political freedom as do every people. Their requests are merely of sovereignty and political rights-- and of course, once they have been granted these, they will live in harmony with their neighbors, recognizing Israel's right to peaceful coexistence. Or will they? An opened minded view of the current situation brings grave doubts to the true desires of the Arabs in general and the Palestinians in particular. This Shmuz focuses on some of the underlying causes of the Arab's attitude towards the Jews, and why Western Culture has such difficulty relating to the core issue. WARNING: If your worldview is shaped by CNN you will find this Shmuz disconcerting. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#144 - Stages of Change Part II Support Groups Mar 09, 2019

Recent studies show that in 2004, there were an estimated 44.5 million adult smokers in the United States, and 70% of them want to quit. Each year, 35% do attempt to stop, yet only 5% succeed -- clearly change isn't easy. Willpower alone isn't enough. A good program for change alone isn't enough. To make change permanent, we need outside help. Support groups are successful for this very reason. Weight Watchers reports that people who attend meetings lose three times as much weight as those who don't. Same program, same motivation. The only difference is the social component of support. Our goal as the Chosen Nation is not only to change destructive personal habits, but to change our very natures, our character traits, and our approaches to life -- the type of spouses we are, the type of parents we are, the type of human beings we. Clearly it is a formidable challenge- one that we were given a lifetime to tackle. And provided we have the motivation, systems and knowledge of how to change, we can accomplish it. In this second of a three part series on the mechanisms of change, we focus on how support systems function and how important they are in making change permanent. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#142 - The Power of Laughter Mar 09, 2019

There are certain life lessons that they don't teach you in school. One of them is the importance of maintaining a sense of humor. Not only is this one of the key elements for maintaining a sense of balance and joy as we travel through the trials of life, in terms of our relationships with others, a light touch often spells the difference between harmony and strife-love and hate. Focusing on the adage that "He who laughs, lasts.. .." this Shmuz underscores the power of laughter -- a force that improperly used, can cause much harm, but properly utilized is one of the keys to leading a successful life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#143- Stages of Change Part I Denial Mar 09, 2019

The Vilna Gaon tells us that the main reason for life is to change our middos -"If not" he says, "Why should a person have life?" The difficulty with this mandate is that it means: I have to change. While in theory I may be open to grow -- I may even recognize the many advantage to my life, in practice we humans find it very difficult to change. Ask a person who has smoked for 20 years, "How easy it is to change?" Ask a person who is 40 lbs overweight, "Don't you want to lose weight?" The reality is that even when we recognize the need to change, actually carrying out the process seems to be a daunting task-and it's not just about willpower. This is part one of a series of Shmuzin, focusing on the dynamics of change. Whether my aim is to stop: gambling, over eating, drinking, or improving my character traits; by understanding the different stages, techniques and mental states, that are a necessary part of change, we can be more successful at attaining our goals. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#145 - Stages of Change Part III Taking Action Mar 09, 2019

When a person recognizes that he needs to lose weight, it isn't enough for him to read all the latest diet books and find a great plan - the person has to actually "do it." He has to go on that diet and stick to it. But "doing it" requires motivation, not just the initial motivation to begin, but long-lasting motivation that will withstand the tests of life, allowing changes in behavior to become permanent. Why is it that some people are able to maintain that positive focus and other aren't? Are there techniques for "getting motivated", and maintaining that sense of empowerment? This issue is especially relevant to us, the Chosen Nation. Our mandate is not only to change damaging personal habits, but to change our very nature, our character traits, and our approaches to life -- the types of spouses we are, the types of parents we are, the type of human beings we are. To do this, we must have a constant source of motivation and drive. Changing our very nature is difficult work. Where does this drive come from? How can we stay that motivated throughout life? In this third part of a three-part series on the mechanisms of change, we focus on using moments of inspiration and learn how to lock them in, so that we give ourselves the constant source of inspiration needed for change. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#146 - The Impact of One Mitzvah Mar 09, 2019

I do daven with a minyan. I don't. I do a chesed -- I don't. Does it really matter? Does it really make a difference? Very often we find ourselves thinking what is the big deal? Will my actions really change my life? Will they change my world? Yet every once in a while, we come across a single action that does change the world-- a shot heard around the world. Our natural assumption is that these types of acts are relegated to singular people, living in highly unusual times and circumstance. Yet, Chazal have a different appreciation of the value of a single act. From their vantage point a single mitzvah, accomplished by an ordinary person, is so important, that it exceeds anything we could ever imagine. The question is why? What is the big deal? After all said and done, it was only one Mitzvah, it's not like the entire universe: heaven and earth, are dependent upon that one act.Using HASHEM's answer to, why Nevuchadneser merited becoming one of the most powerful kings in history, as a backdrop, this Shmuz helps us enter Chazal's world view of the impact of even one Mitzvah. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#148 - Rich, Richer, Richest - How to be Wealthy Mar 09, 2019

Hot, hotter, hottest. Fast, faster, fastest. In the English language we distinguish between the adjective, a descriptive word, and the superlative, an adjective taken to its extreme. Yet when we think about wealth, that distinction somehow gets lost. If I am not as rich as Bill Gates, then I am not rich. While the Torah does not guarantee that any individual will be wealthy, it does offer a tried and true formula for a person to enjoy riches in this world. This Shmuz focuses on the concept of wealth, appreciation and the concept of being rich. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#147 - Finding G-d Mar 09, 2019

On 12 April 1961, Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man in space. Upon his return, he made the famous statement, I have proven that G-d doesnt exist I was in heaven, and I didn't see any God up there." While we may find his logic simple minded, in reality, he makes a valid point. How can the Torah expect us to believe in something that all of our senses deny? We relate to the world through our five senses, yet none of them can perceive the presence of HASHEM. How can a person be expected to see HASHEM when everything he experiences clearly denies HASHEM existence? This Shmuz focuses on how we can come to see HASHEM clearly and experience His presence in our lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#149 - The System of Tshuvah Mar 09, 2019

We know that Tshuvah works. The Nivim told us it does, Chazal repeat it many, many times, and we even have Yom Kippur, a day created specifically for tshuvah. The question isn't whether Tshuvah works, but why I don't make use of it? Why is it that I don't stand there on Yom Kippur with tears flowing down my face, repenting, improving, ridding myself of a year's worth of iniquities? It isn't that I don't want to. It isn't even that I don't believe in it. It just seems that I don't feel a need to repent. This Shmuz focuses on the motivation to do Tshuvah and the different parts of the Tshuvah process. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#150 - Being a Religious Atheist Mar 09, 2019

An atheist is someone who doesnt believe in G-d. A religious person is someone who practices a lifestyle that serves G-d. It would therefore seem obvious that being a religious atheist would be a contradiction in terms. Yet not only isnt this correct, the phenomenon of religious atheists is far more prevalent than we realize. This Shmuz focuses us on some of the bedrock foundations of our religion and some of the strange experiences that result from living a life unexamined. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#151 - Be Bold, Be Brave Mar 09, 2019

All the great leaders and teachers of the Jewish Nation had faults and flaws. The Torah tells us the shortcomings of Avrohom, Dovid, and Shlomo. More amazingly, the Gemarah tells us that the four men who never sinned aren't counted amongst the greatest of our nation. Why? The reason is simple. HASHEM didn't put us on the planet not to sin. HASHEM created us to act - to accomplish, to change ourselves, to change our world. To do this, we need to stand up for what is right, despite the odds, despite what others will say or think. But where does a person get the courageand strength to do just that: to be bold and be brave? This Shmuz introduces us to one of the basic life outlooks necessary for a person to reach his potential. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#126 - Dignity of Man Mar 09, 2019

While there is much talk today about the importance of self esteem and its effect on a person's attitudes and accomplishments, there is a corollary benefit of understanding the greatness of man -- If I am obligated to respect myself because I was created in the image of HASHEM, then so too, I must respect you, because you also were created in that same image. In fact, Ben Azzai teaches us that if a person wants to improve his interpersonal relationships, a concept that will help him even more than Loving one's neighbor as oneself, is this understanding that All men are created in the image of HASHEM. This Shmuz focuses us on the Torah's view of the true dignity of man, and the profound effect that this concept has on our lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#127 - Breaking The Forces of Habits Mar 09, 2019

We are creatures of habit -- we act by habit, we react by habit and, to a large extent, we even think by habit. And, in truth, it has to be that way. If we didn't act based on previously established patterns of behavior, life would be unmanageable. If every time we turned a corner we would have to think through the actions involved, our entire mind's focus would be on navigating the basics of living, with no upper brain room left for thinking. For that reason, HASHEM gave us this ability to put things on auto pilot, doing many activities without even giving them a second thought, thereby leaving us the ability to free our mind for more important things.While this reality is a fact of life, it also brings us face to face with one of the core realities of growth: our habits determine who we are and what we become. Assuming that some of my habits are in my best interest and some aren't, the question then becomes, "How do I change".This Shmuz helps us identify those habits that affect us, and then defines the strategies necessary to change them. In this Shmuz we are introduced to the vital obligation upon every Jew to be involved in Kiruv, and some practical understandings as to how easy it for everyone, not just the Kiruv professional, to have a profound effect on the people around us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#128 - Kiruv: The Message & The Medium Mar 09, 2019

In 1996 Gordon and Horowitz published a study entitled Will your grandchildren be Jewish? Their conclusion: if one were to view the Jewish Nation as a totality, based on ever decreasing birth rates and skyrocketing intermarriage rates, the odds of any Jews being left by the end of the 21 st century are slim to none. However, one category stands out in stark relief -- the Orthodox. Based on their average birth rate of between 4-6 children per family, and their intermarriage rate of less than 3%, they are burgeoning and ever increasing. We should expect that by the end of this century the Jewish Nation will be alive and vibrant, however strictly Orthodox. The only question that remains is of those Jews alive today: How many will make it themselves, and how many of their grandchildren will be Jewish. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#129 - HaKaras HaTov: Recognizing the Good Mar 09, 2019

Shmuz INfo Coming Soon.... See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#130 - Living With Bitachon Mar 09, 2019

We know that everything is from HASHEM. We also know that we must do our part-- our Hishtadlus. In theory it is easy to find the balance-- I must act in the way of the world, yet knowing all the while that HASHEM runs everything. One of the great challenges of life is actually personifying that tightrope walk between Bitachon and proper Hishtadlus. How hard should I be working? How seriously should I take the medical reports and new findings? When is it appropriate for me to say, "I have done my part, now it is in HASHEM's hands"? Drawing on some very inspiring examples of perfect Bitachon, this Shmuz helps us put our belief system into practice. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#131 - Working For A Living Mar 09, 2019

We know that we were put on this planet for a few short years, to shape ourselves into who we will be for eternity. HASHEM has created this world specifically to give us the chance to mold our inner essence. We also know that the Torah and its mitzvahs are the greatest vehicles of self perfection. If so, one of the questions that a thinking person must ask themselves is, why do we need work? HASHEM is quite capable of creating a world where all of man's needs are met. Yet, not only do we labor, it seems that majority of our life is spent earning a living. Why would HASHEM want that to be? If the entire purpose of life is to allow us to grow in spirituality, wouldn't those goals have been better met by putting us in a world where all of our physical needs were met, and then we would have the time and energy to focus on perfecting ourselves? This Shmuz addresses one of the most basic questions a Jew must ask himself: Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#132 - PURIM: Being Human Mar 09, 2019

One of the most difficult character traits to work on is humility. Not only is it considered the most pervasive of the all of the middos, it is the most misunderstood. On one hand, we are obligated to appreciate the greatness of the human, yet on the other, we must remain humble. One technique to help identify the trait and its pathology is to see it in its extreme. Using the story of Megillas Esther as a backdrop, and particularly some of foibles of Haman, we are able to witness arrogance in its extreme, and thereby find its cure: the understanding that I am a human. This is a highly recommended Shmuz for working on the trait of humility, as well as a good preparation for Purim. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#133 - ReJEWvinate Mar 09, 2019

One of the tools of highly successful people is the ability to stay focused and motivated over long periods of time. Whether in sports, academics, or business, the effort and consistency needed to accomplish long term goalsrequires a high level of motivation and the ability to renew excitement and enthusiasm. Often the difference between a person who reaches great heights and a person who doesn't is the persons self awareness and ability to marshal the inner resources to stay on top of the game. In religion, , we also need the same set of skills to maintain a high level of enthusiasm and focus to prevent our daily actions from becoming merely robotic. In this Shmuz we are focused on one of the Torah's techniques for staying motivated-- ReJewvinating. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#134 - PARENTING 103: Setting Limits Mar 09, 2019

If you were to poll our community, the average parent would admit we probably give our children too much. And while this sentiment may not be clearly spoken out by young parents, once children hit the teen age years, most parents upon reflection would say : I wish we had been more firm with them when they were younger; Weve probably spoiled them; They would have been better off, had they not be given quite so much We live in permissive times, and parents seem almost afraid to say the word no to their children. Yet intuitively, we understand that we are injuring our children by not being firm, by not setting limits, and following through with consequences when they go past those limits. The challenge for parents is to find the balance between letting our children know that we love them unconditionally and setting limits and educating them in our expectations. Using the backdrop of some of the most famous personalities in all of history for reference, the Medrash presents to us some of the foundations of effective parenting. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#135 - Imagination: The Devils Playground Mar 09, 2019

Eleanor Roosevelt has been credited with saying, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." The reality is that most of the battles that we fight are based on complex constructions -- created by us. Whether they be issues of misunderstanding other's motives, or our fight with passions and desire, or understanding our place in the universe - our fights and battles are very real to us. Yet, when you try to explain them to others we often find, many people can't even identify with the challenge nor understand the temptation. This Shmuz focuses on the fight of our generation, and the very powerful psychological forces that help create the fever- pitched battle that it is. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#136 - I'm Never Wrong Mar 09, 2019

There is much truth in the adage: There are three sides to every story, your side, my side and the truth. And, even though I fully understand that you might be making a valid point, as soon as we get into an argument, I can no longer even see your side because, of course, I'm right. Why is that? We all make mistakes. That is part of being human. And while I certainly can accept that you make mistakes, it becomes very difficult to accept that I may be wrong. In theory I accept that as a human I err, but when it comes down to real life situations, I just seem never to be wrong. This Shmuz focuses on why it is that we humans have a blind spot when it comes to seeing our own faults, and helps us with some techniques to change that natural propensity. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#107 - CHAZAK! Mar 09, 2019

Everybody wants to succeed. We want successful careers, successful relationships; we want to be winners at the game of life. But winning takes hard work, and hard work takes single-minded drive. That can be hard to maintain, especially when the going gets tough.This Shmuz looks at the amazing success stories of champion athletes and underdogs who beat the odds, teaching us where we can find the inner strength to reach the heights HASHEM set up for us.Said At The 3rd Annual Torah Retreat. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#108 - Servant of HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

Said at the 3rd Annual Torah Retreat. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#109 - MACHLOKES! The Damage of Conflict Mar 09, 2019

The Torah calls us a stiff necked people. It seems to be part of our very nature --put two Jews together and you get three opinions.So how it is possible for us to live in harmony, as individuals, as families and certainly as communities? We certainly understand the damage of conflict, and unfortunately many of us have felt first hand, the powerful downward spiral that occurs when human beings live in a state of strife. The question is on a practical level, what can I do about this? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#110 - Becoming a Great Individual Mar 09, 2019

Each individual was created with different strengths and weakness -- One is wise and the other is capable, one has great physical strength, and the other has a strong mental capacity. One is a financial wizard but can't fix his car, the other is a great Talmid Chacham but can't balance his checkbook. Some people can paint, some can speak, some can play the piano, some can create, some can sing and some can write poetry each person has his or her own unique ability. This Shmuz focuses on the concept that each individual was created with the potential for greatness -- but not all individuals have the potential to be great in the same areas. As there are different aptitudes, talents and gifts, there are different expectations from each person. One of the keys to leading a successful life is to find my personal strengths, develop them, and use them to accomplish great things. At the end of my days "They" will ask me if I became a great person, but not a great person as judged by the criteria of you, or any other individual -- the question will be did I use my abilities, gifts and talents to become the great individual that I could have become. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#111 - Sustaining Spiritual Growth Mar 09, 2019

Any level of spiritual growth comes with a lot of hard work and perseverance. Oftentimes it takes months or years to change my outlook on life, and to bring my value system in line with the Torahs values. Now that I have invested the time, energy and effort, and I have reached a certain level of understanding, how do I maintain it? How do I keep up the growth that I have attained? This Shmuz offers us the Torah's system for preserving spiritual growth, and making the changes that we have effected in ourselves permanent. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#112 - Chesed - The Essence of Judaism Mar 09, 2019

We know that HASHEM is more kindly that any human being that we can imagine. HASHEM created this entire world with fantastic love and concern strictly to give to man. We also know that HASHEM created many features in this world, specifically to give man more enjoyment. So why don't I see it? Why don't I see the Chessed of HASHEM? Why can't I simply open my eyes and be awed by the fantastic amount of chessed, pure kindliness that HASHEM has invested in this world? In this Shmuz we focus on a concept of projection. That more a person lives a life of doing for others, the more they are can appreciate what others do for them, and the more they are able to sense kindliness. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#113 - Tshuvah - Two Elements of Sin Mar 09, 2019

As we come close to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we focus on the idea that Torah expects us to do Teshuva. Yet for most of us, while in a theoretical sense we understand that there are areas in which we could improve, in our real mode of being, we don't seem to feel that we really sin. When we go to Shul on Yom Kippur morning, it is rare to find the person who walks in with this sense of the magnitude of his sins and the fierce determination to get rid of them. For most of us, we come to daven, we try to focus on what we can do to improve, but the idea of heart felt remorse and repentance just doesn't seem to fit in.In this Shmuz we are brought to focus on the severity of a sin and its grave consequences, and our ability to use the system of Teshuva to rid them from our essence. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#114 - Creating a Balanced Self Esteem Mar 09, 2019

In todays culture there is great emphasis on Self Esteem. Countless studies and reports claim that the basis of success is a good strong sense of self. Does the Torah agree? Are there exceptions to this rule? Is self esteem really that integral to becoming a great person? And if, in fact, I need to have a high self esteem to reach my potential as an individual, how can that be balanced with the concept of being humble? High self esteem translates into thinking that I am very important; humility manifests itself into thinking that I am not important. Arent these two concepts in utter contradiction? In this Shmuz we are introduced to the correct source of self esteem, its importance in success, and the formula for finding the balance between a good strong sense of self and a healthy sense of humility. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#115 - Preparing For Yom Kipper Mar 09, 2019

While Yom Kippur is known as the day of forgiveness, there are two other issues a person should be focusing on during this day: Praying for all of their needs in the coming year, and asking themselves that key question: is the life that I am leading, in fact the life I wish to be leading. This Shmuz focuses us on the importance of all three issues, and gives us some powerful motivation to use the day to its fullest. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#116 - GROWTH Mar 09, 2019

Every human needs to grow -- this is an inborn trait in the species. That trait either manifests itself in real, significant growth or it can be sublimated, channeled into other pursuits. When we watch people chase all types of new plateaus and never being satisfied when they attain them: The man who is constantly seeking to make more money, even though he already has far more than he can spend in his lifetime; the king who goes to war to expand his boundary, even though his monarchy is safe and secure, these are manifestations of the need for growth, incorrectly channeled. This need stems from the Nishoma of man, his soul. Man was placed on this planet exactly for that purpose -- to grow. If man fills his soul's needs, then he is satisfied, and finds peace, if he doesn't, then he has this unmet need and desire within him that plagues and haunts him, demanding its fill. If that fulfillment can't be attained with real growth then it demands its fill with something, anything, as long as it takes away that gnawing sense of "I am wasting my life". This Shmuz introduces us to some of the most basic factors in the functioning of a human being, and helps us understand exactly what it is that man needs to attain happiness. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#117 - OPTIMISM Mar 09, 2019

Optimism is one of the most essential ingredients in a successful life: Without optimism the world is bleak, dreary place - Life stinks then you die. And even if there is some meaning and purpose in my existence, the odds of my succeeding at it are very slim, considering that bad things are far more likely to befall me than good. An Optimist on the other hand, looks upon the world as a positive place. People and events are inherently good, things will work out in the end - They have a positive outlook on life. Yet there is a sense of realism that demands questioning such an outlook. After all, many bad things do happen: businesses go bankrupt, people get sick, and everyone must die at sometime. Doesn't an optimistic outlook on life run counter to intelligence? How can a person maintain a sense of optimism when often times it is counterintuitive? This Shmuz deals with the issue of balancing an objective, calculated view of life with optimism, and some practical techniques towards adopting a more optimistic view point. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#118 - Daas Torah Mar 09, 2019

When we have medical questions, we go to our doctor. When we have legal questions, we go to our lawyer. When we have financial questions, we go to our accountant. But who do we go to when we have "life questions"? Who do we approach when we have the really big deal questions -- questions that shape our future and the future of our families? Since the time we were in Yeshiva we have been taught the answer: Da'as Torah -- We consult our Rebbeim. But the problem is that most of us don't have a Rebbe. Most of us find ourselves davening in one shul maybe another If we had a connection to a Rebbe in our Yeshiva days, we have long since lost contact with him. The Rov of the Shul I daven in, may be a big Talmid Chacham, but I have little to do with him So who do I turn to? This Shmuz address this very real problem in our communities. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#119 - Bris Milah Mar 09, 2019

The Jewish contribution to the cultural, scientific, and technological evolution of civilization is nothing short of astounding. Whether in academics, politics, the media, or the professions -- from curing polio to discovering atomic energy, from Hollywood to Wall Street-- Jews have had an extraordinary influence on culture and human progress. Between 1901 and 2006, 23% of all Nobel Prizes worldwide, were awarded to Jews. In the 20th century, 37% of all United States Nobel Prizes were awarded to Jews. (Even though Jews make up less than a quarter of a percent of the world population, and less than 2% of the US population!) The question is why? Why is it that such a miniscule percentage of the population can have such a profound influence - even effecting areas not known to be Jewish, areas like literature, art, theater and music? This Shmuz explores some of what make Jews unique, and allows him to find exceptional success in all of his endeavors. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#120 - Thrift Mar 09, 2019

Never before in the history of mankind, has so much been available to so many. Even in recent times the earning power and discretionary income of the average US citizen has increased dramatically. The typical American worker today earns far more than he did back in the 1950's. Yet, the rate of savings has decreased fourfold since that time. Even more troubling, consumer debt has increased exponentially (far outpacing the rate of inflation or cost of living increases) to the point that for many, credit card debt has become a fact of life they never see themselves getting out of it. Why is it that we are earning more and more, yet finding ourselves deeper and deeper in debt? This Shmuz explores the Torah's approach to personal money matters, and gives us a solid approach to financial stability. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#121 - EMES - The Whole Truth Mar 09, 2019

Politicians lie, lawyers lie, salesmen lie -- but we are honest, moral people and we don't lie... Unfortunately, the reality is that the world we live in affects us, and lies - sometimes little ones, sometimes bigger ones, tend to seep into and become part of our lives. Reb Yisroel Salanter defines lying as "Saying words with our mouth that our heart knows aren't true". Using this as our gauge of Emes, we may well find that we bend the truth a bit more often than we would care to admit. This Shmuz introduces us to the Torah's definition of Emes, and aids us in becoming more honest in all of our dealings. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#122 - Parenting 102 Mar 09, 2019

For thousands of years parenting was a pretty straight forward responsibility. Society offered very structured guidelines for behaviors and expectations: Adult's roles were well defined, children's roles were clearly delineated, and throughout the strata of the community everyone knew his place. In terms of practical parenting, new parents had their own parents as guideposts and role models, and the techniques to use were time tested and proven - to fit that world. However, we live in very different times. We live in an open society. Man has social freedoms that never existed before, in terms of opportunities for education - social advancement - increase in income - where to live and what to do - there are almost no boundaries. Yet, this new found freedom comes with a cost: gone are the norms of social conduct, gone is the family structure, and gone are the role models for socially acceptable behaviors. And, so, we now find ourselves in uncharted waters in the role of parents, without having a clear and definitive path as to "how to parent". This Shmuz, the second on the topic of parenting, deals with the primary role of the parent, and some practical "how to"s in term of fulfilling that role. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#123- Chanukah - Whose Side Are You On? Mar 09, 2019

Chanukah centers on the ideological battle of two cultures: The hedonistic Yevanim (Greek / Syrian) Culture waging war against the Torah ideals -- the battle not being fought for the physical survival of the Jewish nation, but rather for its ideology and way of life. We, today, live in very different times. We are no longer downtrodden and subjugated to oppressive regimes -- we are free to choose our lifestyle. And so, not only does Torah learning flourish at unprecedented levels, we have also created our own insular culture, and the Jewish nation even in exile, has fashioned its own way of life. We have our own neighborhoods and schools, we have our own shopping districts and clothing styles, we even have our own novels, music and daily newspapers. So it seems that we have won the cultural war - there are no Yevanim influences in our world -- and as such the message of Chanukah has little to offer us. Unfortunately, this rosy picture is far from reality. This Shmuz explores some of the inroads that "foreign ways" have found even into the finest Torah homes, and identifies the ideological battleground of our time. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#124 - Life is Like a Box of Chocolates Mar 09, 2019

Do you ever get the sense that there is always something going on -- If it's not one thing it's another. Just when you have finally gotten one area of your life under control, from out of nowhere a whole new issue, a whole new problem, or a whole new crisis pops up -- and now a completely different set of difficulties have to be dealt with. Why is this? Why can't life just be simple? Why can't HASHEM just allow me to go about my business, work on myself, and use this life for its intended purpose? In this Shmuz we are introduced to a perspective on the various situations that befall a person, and why in fact they are a necessary, integral, part of life. A highly recommended Shmuz for understanding life, and the point of view necessary to make sense out of the "things" that just seem to keep on happening. podcast See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#125 - Business Ethics Mar 09, 2019

HASHEM created man with an innate sense of morality and an inborn need to do what is right and proper. One of the difficulties of acting ethically is that in the slippery slope of life that sense of right and wrong becomes dulled. It seems that in the business world this is more clearly felt, where the lines between what is considered honest and moral, and what isn't, quickly get blurred. In the post Enron era, when much of the business community is checking its moral compass, isn't it time for us, The Chosen Nation, to make sure that we are living our lives in accordance with the Torah's standards? In this Shmuz we are introduced to an overview of what the Torah considers the ethical approach for business dealings, and how to conduct our day to day affairs. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#87 - SELF CONTROL Mar 09, 2019

Most of us are wimps. If you dont believe it, ask yourself what you do when faced with a choice between doing what you want and doing what you should. The nisyonos are different for everybody, but how many of us can claim to be masters over our desires? How many of us have real inner strength, real self-control? Just like a body builder develops his strength in small increments, we develop inner strength step by step. This Shmuz clues you in to the strategies you need to trounce your weaknesses once and for all. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#88 - Chanukah - The Effect of Outside Influences Mar 09, 2019

The nisayon in the times of Chanukah was clear: fight for Torah or succumb to Greek culture. During the Spanish Expulsion, the nisayon was also clear: leave Spain as a Jew or convert and remain comfortable. What is the nisayon in our times? Our lives are no longer threatened. We enjoy tremendous wealth and freedom. What could be wrong? Make no mistake. Modern-day culture is insidiously breaking down morality. Each of us must be on our guard. If you ever wondered if there was a Divine purpose for Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Mick Jagger, then this Shmuz is for you. Beware of the crushing of a few idols. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#90 - Torah Lishmah Mar 09, 2019

Since the time we began school the importance of Torah study has been something that weve learnt about and come to understand. But at the end of the day, it seems to be hard to set up meaningful Sedarim that really last. Why is that? And, what can I do about it? In this Shmuz we are brought to see the value of Torah from the Torahs perspective, and given some practical, hands on, advice as to how to set up realistic Torah study goals, actually reach them. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#92 - TACT Mar 09, 2019

How can a different perspective of speech and my actions sometimes so drastically make a difference between success and failure. Tact is a careful consideration of the feelings and values of another so as to create harmonious relationships with a reduced potential for conflict or offense. It is a virtue. It is the ability to induce change or communicate critical and sometimes hurtful information without offending through the use of consideration, compassion, kindness, and reason. A tactful person can tell you something you don't want to hear and you will be thankful for the information when they are finished. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#89 - Malbin Pnei Chavero Mar 09, 2019

We've all have felt the pain of embarrassment, and we understand the seriousness that the Torah ascribes to not causing a friend pain-- Yet it seems that it happens anyway. Granted we don't intend it, but it happens anyway. In this Shmuz we are introduced to a new understanding of the gravity that the Torah ascribes to not embarrassing a fellow man, and the sensitivity we need to develop to another person's pain. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#91 - I Never Forget Mar 09, 2019

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#97 - Living the Good Life Mar 09, 2019

We all want to live "the good life." Big homes, money in the bank, vacations, and luxury. The trouble is that these things never seem to satisfy. Anyone who spends his life acquiring them finds himself wanting more and more. Perhaps "the good life" isn't so good, after all.So what is "the good life?" It comes from living life in balance, from fulfilling your mission on this planet.By breaking down human nature into its basic components, this Shmuz shows how good, happy, and productive lives are possible for everybody - and that includes you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#93 - Shabbos - Foundation of our Emunah Mar 09, 2019

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#94 - On Being Judgmental Mar 09, 2019

Why is it so important not to be judgmental of others?How do you not judge other people's words, ideas and actions even when you don't agree with them? The trick is knowing when to be judgmental, and when to reserve it for later, and when to not judge at all. Every situation needs an independent evaluation. This ability is key in many areas in life especially in relationships. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#95 - Time Management Mar 09, 2019

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#96 - Purim III-Seize the Moment Mar 09, 2019

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#98 - The Power of Positive Thinking Mar 09, 2019

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#99 - Men are from Mars Mar 09, 2019

Men and women are inherently different, in the way that they approach issues and concepts and ideas, and in the very way that they think, speak, behave and feel. Even more significantly socially, emotionally, psychologically men and women are worlds apart What they value, aspire for, and need is starkly differentIt is almost as if they are from different planets. Yet they are expected to live together in peace and harmony. A young man and a young woman are expected to meet, total strangers, then after a short courtship, are expected to come to together in the closest of all human bonds, soul mates, sharing their lives.This Shmuz deals with some of the most basic differences between men and women, the systems HASHEM has created to allow couples to bond and live in harmony, and offers some techniques couples can use that are constructive to a harmonious, lasting relationship. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#100 - Keeping The Dream Alive Mar 09, 2019

Everyone has dreams. It's a healthy part of human nature. Our dreams give meaning to our lives, motivate us to get out of bed in the morning, and keep us going day in and day out. But there's a difference between dreaming of making mega-millions and dreaming of making a difference in the world. This Shmuz teaches us how to fine-tune our dreams so we can transform our lives from the ordinary to the truly extraordinary. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#101 - Why Pray Mar 09, 2019

When we speak about Love of HASHEM, we normally think of some sort of elusive, vague concept. Yet not only are we commanded to Love HASHEM, the Torah describes this as something that will be effective in preventing one from taking revenge. How is it possible for a regular person to actually love HASHEM, and feel that emotion so strongly that it will actually change his behaviour? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#102 - Learning to Love HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

When we speak about Love of HASHEM, we normally think of some sort of elusive, vague concept. Yet not only are we commanded to Love HASHEM, the Torah describes this as something that will be effective in preventing one from taking revenge. How is it possible for a regular person to actually love HASHEM, and feel that emotion so strongly that it will actually change his behaviour? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#103 Torah Study - The Key To It All Mar 09, 2019

Everyone wants to grow. There isn't a person alive who doesn't want to grow; in fact this drive to grow is natural to the human. The problem is that we often find ourselves stuck. Even if we fully understand the gravity of our actions, even if we truly understand who it is that we can become-- it is difficult to change.Yet the Torah expects us to change, to grow, to become a better person. The question is how? How do I get the strength, the motivation, the push to actually move myself from where I am to where I would like to be? Chazal teach us that the key to personal growth is Torah study -- but not just Torah study, specifically, toiling in Torah. The process of learning Torah in depth, learning Torah with exertion, is the greatest firepower to empower a person to grow. This is a very good Shmuz for reenergizing our personal Torah Study. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#104 - Parenting 101 Mar 09, 2019

We hear a lot about the importance of good parenting techniques, and while these are essential to learn, it seems that there is more to being a great parent then being able to relate well to child. After all, there are many individuals who have good people skills yet make lousy parents. In this Shmuz we are introduced to the amazing concept that Sarah Imanu wasn't ready to be a parent to Yitzchak until she was 90 years of age-- despite her personal greatness, she wasn't quite there yet. From this we come to understand that the true essence of great parenting is being a great person - the type of person that can guide a child on their path in life. Which then leads us to the critical question: how can I, a regular person, become that great person that my children and grandchildren will want to emulate? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#106 - The Power of a Tzibbur Mar 09, 2019

There's strength in numbers. Sports fans tap into it when they cheer on their favorite teams, and lehavdil, the Torah recognizes it by commanding men to daven with a minyan. But why should it be that way? Why did HASHEM create the world in such a way that a group can accomplish more than an individual? This Shmuz uncovers the intense power we tap into simply by connecting ourselves with the community at large.Said At The 3rd Annual Torah Retreat. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#105 - Understanding Life Settings PART II Mar 09, 2019

We are taught over and over again that HASHEM is merciful and kind. We are taught that many times more that a Mother loves her child, HASHEM loves everyone one of his creations. Yet when we look around the world we live in there are many features that just don't make sense. There is pain and suffering. There are hurricanes and tornadoes. There are diseases and ailments; there are orphans, widows and divorce. If we also accept that HASHEM is all- knowing then we understand that all of these features are part of the design that HASHEM had for this world they weren't by accident- they were part of the plan.How are we to understand all of the suffering and misfortune that seems to be deliberately designed into the world? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#68 - People Skills Mar 09, 2019

Getting along with people is the single most important of all life skills. Good human relations are the key to running a successful business, having a loving marriage, and above all, to raising happy kids. Because people skills are so essential, this Shmuz offers something unique: a mini-course in social relations. With these basics under your belt, youll become more than just well-liked; youll be more effective in achieving your goals. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#69 - Yitzias Mitzraim- A War of Ideology Mar 09, 2019

When we look at Pharaoh and his pagan beliefs, we usually write him off as primitive. The same goes for all idol worshippers. But surprisingly, they were tuned into spiritual secrets we modern folks tend to ignore. They just made one fatal error.Modern science isnt all that different. Scientists have uncovered some astounding facts of nature. But for all their sophistication, some of their beliefs are downright silly.For Pesach or for all year round, this Shmuz brings home the war of ideas between Pharaoh and Moshe and the war of ideas we face today. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#70 - Onah-The Torah's Sensitivity to Another's Pain Mar 09, 2019

Often we think of onaas devorim of not saying cruel things to people as referring to big things, like tearing someone down in public. In reality, its much more subtle. People hurt each other with callous remarks all the time. And usually, they didnt even mean to.Those callous remarks cost. Even when we forget what weve said, our victims dont, and neither does HASHEM. He makes sure well feel the after-effect one way or other.This Shmuz will heighten your sensitivity to your fellow human beings and keep you from stumbling into the ever-present trap of saying the wrong thing. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#71 - Chesed-Being Like HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

One of the most detailed sections in Torah is the description of Avraham Avinus chesed to the three angels. Posuk after posuk tells us the minutiae of how Avraham served his guests. But of all his spiritual accomplishments, what is so great about this one? Why does the Torah give it so much attention? The answer is that chesed is the closest means we have of emulating HASHEM. HASHEM is the ultimate Giver. He gave us life and all the brachos that come with it. Avraham knew this, so he cherished every opportunity to do chesed. And the Torah wants us to absorb that lesson.Believe it or not, each of us can be like Avraham. Weve got it in our genes. We just have to keep our eyes open for opportunities.This Shmuz will show you how to move away from self-centeredness and into other-centeredness. Not only will you become a better oved HASHEM, your life will be more satisfying, too. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#72 - Respecting Others - The Students of Rebbe Akiva Mar 09, 2019

Respect is the basis of all good human relations, but do we really give others their due? We know that every human is a tzelem Elokim, but how often do we think about that when were talking to our friends? Do we even remember it with our spouses?With stories of the gedolim, including some to make you laugh, this Shmuz shows how respect can work magic in your relationships. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#73 - Self Respect - The Basis of it All Mar 09, 2019

Too many of us are familiar with inner chatter, the little voice that constantly says, Youre no good. Youre a failure. Everything you touch turns to mud.If only we could learn to shut that inner chatter off! Its blocking us from reaching our full potential!Shutting it off may not be easy, but its definitely possible. The first success will boost you forward with the speed and strength of a runaway train.No quick fix for self esteem, this Shmuz goes to the core, highlighting the tzelem Elokim in each of us. The tools for reaching great heights are already in your hands. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#75 - The Art of Appreciation Mar 09, 2019

We live in times of unmatched wealth and comfort. People now live in more ease and luxury than at any other time in history. So why is there so much unhappiness? Why do the rich and famous seem to be the least happy of all? The trouble is that we take all this good for granted. And worse, we forget that HASHEM granted it. This Shmuz trains us in the fine art of appreciation. Just by thinking about any single benefit of this world, youll find plenty of reasons to be happy with life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#74 - D'Vaykus in Our Times Mar 09, 2019

Falling in love is the most pleasurable and powerful experience most of us will have in our lifetimes. And it comes so naturally, too. Just look at any chosson and kallah.Loving Hashem takes more effort, but the reward can be even greater. After all, His love is all-powerful.Lofty as it sounds, we can all achieve dvaykus with HASHEM. This Shmuz shows us how to turn that spiritual goal into practical reality. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#76 - Asking Advice-Second Torah Retreat Mar 09, 2019

Making decisions is a challenge for many of us. Some people stall themselves into inaction. But more often, people just jump into things without thinking them through. The younger you are, the more likely you are to do this. But rushing into things is no way to live your life. Chances are, all youll end up with is regrets. And thats why each of us needs the advice of someone older and wiser a rabbi or mentor. This Shmuz, with its amazing and even eerie stories, proves that seeking daas Torah is the most intelligent decision you can make. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#77 - Man Based Morality Mar 09, 2019

Whenever we follow our own desires, we mess up. Even when we act with the best of intentions, we mess up. High-minded ideologies have failed time and time again. History is chock-full of examples. Theres a very good reason why man-based morality consistently fails. We humans are imperfect. We cant possibly see all the consequences to our actions. This Shmuz reminds us of the one and only way to make sure that your good intentions bring good results: by sticking with the tried and true morality of Torah. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#78 - Kiddush HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

Making a kiddush Hashem isnt just about the big things like sacrificing ones life for the sake of a mitzvah its something we can do every day. Ultimately, every Jew is a billboard for Torah. When we behave properly, we have a ripple effect on the people around us. Our simple mitzvos make the world a better place. Its a heavy responsibility, but also a rewarding challenge. This Shmuz shows how your honesty and courtesy have the power to transform you, your family and friends, and even total strangers. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#79 - Reward & Punishment Mar 09, 2019

Reward and punishment is not a matter of HASHEM giving a potch to a rasha and making nice to a tzaddik. Each persons cheshbon is meted out with fine precision, sometimes over generations. Its so complex we cannot begin to fathom it. But theres one thing we can understand: our actions, whether for the good or the bad, have a forceful impact. By giving us a glimpse into the vast orchestrations of reward and punishment, this Shmuz will leave you awed not only by HASHEMs power, but by the power He gives each one of us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#80 - Its Never Too Late Mar 09, 2019

We put up many resistances to teshuva. The simplest one is denial. Ive never done anything wrong. But deep down, we know its a lie, so guilt festers, perking up at odd moments to tell us, Who do you think you are doing mitzvos? Youre a slime and a faker. Stop pretending to be holy. With all these obstacles, it could almost seem that teshuva is impossible. But it isnt. You just have to take it in small, steady steps. With inspiring mussar for Elul, the Yomim Noraim, or even an ordinary day, this Shmuz will show you that its never to late to change. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#81 - All For My People Mar 09, 2019

Loving our fellow Jews is a beautiful concept, but really feeling one with them often seems far-removed from real life. Its fine in theory, but in practice? Its hard to do in the cold and indifferent 21st century. The story of Yonah is the prime example of ahavas Yisrael. He risked his life and his Olam Habo, all for the love of the Jewish people. And while we cant be on that level, this Shmuz will give us practical applications for that all-important mitzvah, the klal gadol of the Torah. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#82 - Why Me? Understanding Suffering Mar 09, 2019

Nobody gets through this life without some suffering. Some people suffer tragedies, others just stress and discomfort, but no matter the nature of the pain, it comes with a Divine purpose. Suffering, when viewed correctly, deepens you and makes you a better, more sensitive person. Unfortunately, its possible to completely miss HASHEMs message. A person can suffer pain and not even grow from it. That is the worst kind of suffering - pain without meaning. Its only natural to want to minimize pain, but since some is inevitable, the wise person prepares himself to face it. This Shmuz gives you the mindset you need to extract the Divine lessons in every type of suffering. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#83 - The Moon Was Jealous, Understanding the Forces of Nature Mar 09, 2019

The Midrash that tells us that the moon was jealous of the sun is much more than a mashal for kids. It contains deep and spiritual messages about how HASHEM runs the world, but it takes a mature mind to grasp them. The world is far more complex than meets the eye. To really understand it, you need a spiritual microscope. This Shmuz, drawing on the teachings of the Rishonim as well as modern science, provides that spiritual microscope. The stories of your childhood wont seem so childish anymore. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#84- Why Me Mar 09, 2019

Why me? Why now? Its too much. I cant take it anymore! Weve all said it when the going gets rough. The trials of life really can seem unbearable at times. But the moment you think youre down for the count is the moment to turn to HASHEM even if youre angry at Him. This Shmuz gives you the chizuk you need to get through all the rough spots on the roller coaster of life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#85 - MOTIVATION! Mar 09, 2019

Success may be sweet, but to get there, you need motivation. When things are going swimmingly, motivation comes naturally. But when you hit those inevitable rough spots, you need an extra boost. Where do you get it, especially when youre in a rut? How can you get motivated when you just arent? Motivation works on the positive side and the negative. You can motivate yourself by visualizing your dreams or you can give yourself a little kick by imagining your worst fears. Both ways work; you just need to know when to apply which. This Shmuz will teach you how to be your own cheering committee so youll always be motivated to tackle the big challenges of life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#86 - To Tell the Truth Mar 09, 2019

Were surrounded by falsehood. We dont believe our leaders, and we know that all the ads bombarding us are lies. Were so used to it, we accept as normal. Tzaddikim dont do that. Lies are anathema to them. They live by their word. Once upon a time, everyone lived that way. Truth and honor meant something, not just to tzaddikim, but to ordinary people. This Shmuz shows how you, an ordinary person in a world full of lies, can rise above it all and live a life of truth. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#54 - Understanding Laziness Mar 09, 2019

Have you ever found it hard to get out of bed in the morning? Lying there after a full nights sleep, is it difficult to get yourself moving? It doesnt take a genius to know thats laziness, but the question is: how do we overcome it?For starters, we need to understand laziness why we have it and why it drags us down. From there, the solution is simple. Dont be lazy. Good middos are like muscles. When you exercise them, they grow stronger.The battle plan in this Shmuz will not only help you beat laziness and make you more productive, it will make your life more fun! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#55 - Staying Pure In An Impure World Mar 09, 2019

Staying Pure In An Impure World. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#50 - Bitachon Part I - Learning to Trust HASHEM Mar 09, 2019

Part one of a three-part series on Bitachon, this Shmuz focuses us on the first stage of Bitachon: learning to trust HASHEM. Amazingly the Chovos Halevovos explains to us that by nature we trust. In fact, without trust we couldnt function. If we didnt trust, then every time we left our home we would fear death by a car crash, an earthquake, or a tornado. Every time we entered into a business transaction we would fear the economy failing or a major international catastrophe. To allow us to function as healthy human beings, HASHEM put into our nature a need to trust. However, that need to trust is typically misplaced. We trust in nature, we trust in the economy, we trust in the Air Force, the police and the emergency medical personnelmore than anything we trust that the ways things have been until now, they will continue to be. And this sense of trust remains with us until the thing we so trusted in fails us, and then we see the futility of that which we trusted in. A good follow-up to Shmuz #18 The Difference Between Emunah and Bitachon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#48 - Being a Nice Guy Mar 09, 2019

Most people we meet are nice guys. If you were stuck on the road, or if you needed a place to sleep they would be the first to come forward and offer to help. Yet these very same people do things that really arent nice-- in fact, sometimes downright cruel. The question is why? Why is it that people who are kind and sweet, do things that are so unquestionably mean? Oftentimes the answer is simply because they dont see other people. They go through life too busy to notice that those around them are human beings, with needs and sensitivities just like their own. So while they may be nice people in the sense that they mean well, they do a lot of damage to others because they fail to see that those around them have the same human feelings as they do. Amazingly, it is often you and I who fit this description! Yet, once we come to this recognition our behavior can change dramatically. This Shmuz focuses us on the concept that by becoming sensitive to other people's needs, not only do I become a truly nice guy, I begin that long road to spiritual perfection, by becoming more similar to our Creator, the source of all giving kindness in this world. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#49 - Yom Kippur- The Capacity of a Human Mar 09, 2019

Nachum Ish Gam Zu, one of the greatest Tanaim who ever lived, was a complete Tzadik. Yet, at one point in his life, he made a minor mistake, and from then on suffered terribly. When he explained to his students that it was because of this minor oversight that he was suffering they said to him, Woe to us, that we have to see you this way. He responded, Woe to me, if you didnt see me this way. Meaning he felt that his pain was worth it. Even more, he felt that his suffering was a good thing, something he welcomed -- something in fact he had wished upon himself. Through this perplexing episode brought in the Gemarah we are presented with a radically different view of punishment in this world, and the extent of accountability that a human is held to. But more than a fire and brimstone concept, we see what is expected of a person, and what he can accomplish during his stay on this planet. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#52 - Bitachon Part III Mar 09, 2019

The Torah tells us that when Yosef Ha Tzaddik was in prison and asked Pharaohs wine steward to put in a good word for him, HASHEM punished him for his lack of bitachon. Doesnt that seem a bit extreme? He was in a terrible dungeon, far worse than the prisons of today. What was wrong about making an effort to free himself?The problem lies not in what Yosef did, but how and why he did it. And while HASHEM does not expect us to be on Yosefs level, He does test us with challenges of our own.This Shmuz reveals HASHEMs three intended purposes for giving us parnossah. As long as we keep His priorities straight, we can maximize bracha in our own lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#53 - I hate Criticism Mar 09, 2019

Youre always late. Why cant you ever be neat? You bounced another check, whats wrong with you It seems that whether we are dealing with children, parents, siblings, coworkers or employees, there is so much that needs improvement, that we cant help but comment. In fact, these lines slip out of our mouths so easily, that often we dont even know we are saying them! Of course, we only say them in the hope of influencing behavior and affecting change Yet they never seem to work. For some strange reason, not only dont these comments cause people to improve, they seem to backfire. In this Shmuz we are brought to focus on the concept that, not only is criticism counterproductive, it actually eats away at the root of all successful relationships- that sense of trust and approval that we humans so crave. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#51 - Bitachon Part II Mar 09, 2019

If you want to know if your bitachon is where it should be, theres a very simple test. Do you go into a panic when you dont know how youre going to pay your next bill? Do you often think that you could have been more successful if only youd done things differently? If your answer was yes, then you, like most of us, need to work on bitachon.But striking the balance between bitachon and hishtadlus is not so simple. What is my part and what is HASHEMs?This Shmuz teaches how honest effort combined with trust in HASHEM is an unbeatable formula for success. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#56 - The Death of Right and Wrong Mar 09, 2019

According to the modern world, the worst thing we can do is judge others. Im okay, and youre okay. Even murderers are okay, or at least we should try and understand them. They have excuses their upbringing, jealousy, pressures. How can they be responsible for their crimes?This moral relativism is eating away at the very fabric of society. Its even penetrating Jewish society. What can we do about it?This Shmuz weaves together current social politics with the Chanukah story, delivering a timely message about standing up for right and wrong. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#57 - Torah - Creating Worlds Mar 09, 2019

Shmuz Info Coming Soon... See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#58 - Arrogance Misdirected Mar 09, 2019

Nobody in the entire Torah was as arrogant as Pharaoh. He actually believed he was the Creator! But his delusion, though in an extreme form, is common in human beings. Weve seen it in dictators like Hitler and Napoleon. We see it in larger-than-life tycoons like Donald Trump. And sometimes, we see it in ourselves.With a breakdown of why this middah rears its ugly head so often, this Shmuz motivates us to work on its antidote: humility. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#59 - Humility - An Issue of Perspective Mar 09, 2019

HASHEM gave everyone a unique set of talents. Some people are strong, others smart, and others musical. But no matter which talents you have, HASHEM gave them to you to help you accomplish a specific mission in this world.The trouble is, people often lose sight of this. They credit themselves for their talents and even expect praise and honor because of them. Not only does this make them seem obnoxious, it guarantees that they will fail to use their talents as HASHEM intended.This Shmuz teaches us to view ourselves and our abilities with honest humility. Only then can we achieve the greatness HASHEM meant for each of us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#60 - Tidal Waves and Middas HaDin Mar 09, 2019

Middas Ha Din and Middas Ha Rachamim may seem like esoteric Kabbalistic concepts beyond our understanding, but a look at history will give us a clear demonstration of how they operate. Weve seen people die by the millions, not just in wars, but in famines, tidal waves, and other natural disasters. Even the media calls them acts of G-d. The question is: why does G-d make them happen?This Shmuz wakes us up to the awesome power of HASHEM and stirs our hearts toward teshuva. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#61 - Heroes! Mar 09, 2019

People have accomplished some extraordinary things. Muhammad Ali fought his way to becoming heavyweight champion of the world. Roger Bannister ran the first four-minute mile. And lehavdil, gedolim like Rav Shimon Shkop, Reb Chaim Brisker, and Rav Gifter became champions in Torah.What is the difference between them and us? Surprisingly, nothing at all. HASHEM gave every human the ability to soar to great heights if only wed believe in ourselves. So dust off those dreams youve put on the shelf. This Shmuz will give you the focus and motivation to turn them into reality. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#62 - Plan Your Life / Live your Plan Mar 09, 2019

Plan your life; live your plan. Set goals for yourself; follow through with them.It sounds like plain common sense, but somehow, most people dont bother. They get sidetracked by the rat race and the pursuit of pleasure. Winging their way through life, they never reach their full potential.The trick to planning your life effectively is in when you plan it. First and foremost, you have to understand yourself.The simple yet powerful teachings in this Shmuz contain everything you need to live the life of your dreams. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#63 - Davening Part I Mar 09, 2019

Plan your life; live your plan. Set goals for yourself; follow through with them.Davening by rote is nothing less than selling yourself short. HASHEM and only HASHEM has the power to provide you with whatever you want or need. So why rush through davening in one big mumble? The trick to planning your life effectively is in when you plan it. First and foremost, you have to understand yourself.With humor and apt mashalim, this first of a three-part Shmuz is just the thing to put life back into your davening. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#64 - Davening Part II Mar 09, 2019

Davening is an amazingly powerful tool, and any of us can use it. Hashem loves us so much, its as though He cant resist our prayers. Yet somehow, most of us dont believe it. We think were too small to be noticed or that if we ask for too much, its kvetching. Nothing could be further from the truth.This Shmuz gives us a taste of just how much HASHEM loves us. With that clear in your mind, youll be more enthused about davening than ever before. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#65 - Davening Part III - Power Prayers-The Impact of Tfilah Mar 09, 2019

A close look at tefilla defies human logic. Simply by saying particular words with kavannah, we can reverse judgments in Heaven. How is it possible? It doesnt make sense!The answer is that it doesnt have to make sense. On one level, davening is a chok. But more than that, davening is a gift. Its an escape hatch we can use to get out of trouble any time.This Shmuz will teach you to treasure the mitzvah of tefilla and help you to tap into its life-changing power. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#66 - Mark of the Man Mar 09, 2019

A popular notion in the secular world is that people are just like animals. Animals live and breathe; we live and breathe. Animals walk on four legs; we walk on two. Whats the big difference?The Torah tells us that the difference is staggering. Its true that humans have an animalistic side, but we also have nishomas. By nurturing the nishoma, we can reach limitless spiritual heights. Thats something no animal can do.The nishoma requires specific nourishment for its growth: Torah. Learning Torah beats back the animalistic desires and propels the nishoma forward. It takes discipline, but the pay-off is enormous. By reminding you of just how much you stand to gain, this Shmuz will not only motivate you to learn, itll help you enjoy learning. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#67 - Understanding and Eliminating Jealousy Mar 09, 2019

If theres one thing that makes smart people act dumb, its jealousy. When people are caught in its clutches, they forget every other bracha in their lives. Nothing is as important as what the other guy has, whether it be money, happiness, or kavod.The good news is that jealousy is surprisingly easy to work on. Because its so irrational and illogical, clear thinking is all it takes to neutralize it.This Shmuz will give you the hashkafos you need to quell that green-eyed monster once and for all, put you on the path to conquering jealousy forever, leaving you free to really enjoy your life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#27 - Respecting the Institution, America the Beautiful Mar 09, 2019

We live in a world of disrespect. Children dont respect parents. Students dont respect teachers, spouses dont respect each other and I certainly cant respect a President or world leader who gives in to his every passion and whim. In this Shmuz we find that Torah has a very different understanding of respect, and who is worthy of respect. We are introduced to the Torahs concept of respecting the institution even if we dont respect the person. And we are brought to focus on the tremendous sense of appreciation we must have for all the good that we experience living in this land. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#28 - People Believe what they want to Believe Mar 09, 2019

If Hashem would just show me one miracle, then I would really believe. If Hashem would just show me one clear sign -- it would change my life. This premise that seeing a miracle would make a person believe is brought into sharp relief by one central question: Why didnt the ancient Egyptians believe in Hashem? They experienced all of the greatest miracles ever shown. They lived through the greatest manifestation of Hashems hand, and yet they didnt come to believe in Hashem. Through illustrating some of the miracles shown in Mitzraim we come to a new understanding of what causes a person to believe. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#29 - The Busy Generation Mar 09, 2019

While we boast of more labor saving devices that ever before in history, It seems that we are busier today than we have ever been. In fact, we are so busy that we dont even have the time to ask ourselves what is that we are so busy with.This Shmuz focuses us on attitudes and perspectives that we pick up from the society in which we live attitudes that may be against what the Torah views as ideal, and even against what common sense says is intelligent. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#30 - Anger Management Mar 09, 2019

We all know that anger is bad and if we have ever gotten into a situation where we lost our temper, we certainly wished that we hadnt --but what can I do? This is the way I react. He said something, I saw red and exploded. That is just my nature. I didnt ask to be born this way, and there is nothing that I can do about it. Right? In this Shmuz we are introduced to the motivation and the mechanics of doing that most difficult of tasks -really changing ourselves. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#31 - The Voice Inside Mar 09, 2019

Have you ever heard of something called a guilty conscience? What about a Jewish guilty conscience? While we all recognize that Voice Inside, that seems to moralize and lecture to us when we have stepped over the line, we assume that this is just one of those things that we have to sort of ignore. In this Shmuz we are brought to understand that Voice that HASHEM put inside every human is actually a highly sophisticated tool --almost a moral compass-- that will allow us to find our path amongst the many choices that life brings our way. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#32 - Understanding Nature, Putting the 'WOW' Back Into Nature Mar 09, 2019

Who can look at a sunset and not say Wow, look at the beauty of this world.? Yet, it seems that we rarely do that. It is almost as if we are detached from the natural world -- As if the world of lions and tigers and bears is a place reserved for taking our children to when they are little, but has no connection to our lives.The Rishonim tell us that the surest way to come to understand that there is a creator of the world is to look at the creation and say just that. Wow! Look at the wisdom, look at the vastness; look at the sophistication of this world. But looking at the world with an eye to see its creator requires attention and training. This Shmuz helps us focus on the Wow behind nature thereby allowing us to be moved by the awe inspiring miracles with which HASHEM has created the world in which we live. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#33 - Where Was G-D During the Holocaust? Mar 09, 2019

We read about the Holocaust, we study about the holocaust, we memorialize the Holocaust, and yet it seems that this question isnt dealt with. Where was G-d during the Holocaust? Yet, isnt this one of the most basic questions a thinking person must deal with?Tracing the historical rise of Nazism and Adolph Hitler, a strong case is made for seeing the presence of G-d during these horrific times. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#34 - Isreal: Exalted Nation / Oppressed People (Why Did G-d Allow the Holocaust to Happen?) Mar 09, 2019

Throughout history all things change, the only constant that seems to cross all cultural and time barriers, is that everyone hates the Jew. Is there a Torah perspective that can explain why the Jewish nation is so tortured and oppressed? If we accept that G-D controls what happens on this earth is there a reason why His nation, the Chosen People are so downtrodden? Are there forces involved that control the very destiny of Israel?This Shmuz explores some of the underlying causes of the Jewish Nations state throughout history, including the Why behind the Holocaust. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#35 - Hashem and Man: Master and Servant (Understanding Humility) Mar 09, 2019

We know the Torah gave us a specific mitzvah - to work on our character traits, but how do I change my very basic, underlying emotional makeup? Much like as with any character trait, I didnt wake up in the morning and say, I just want to be a big, fat, arrogant buffoon. I didnt wake up and say, I would like to consider myself the most important human on the planet G-d's gift to humanity. But what can I do? Thats how I feel. Now what? This Shmuz helps us deal with the gaavah, arrogance, as it functions in our lives. How do I recognize if I am affected by this trait? How do I work on this issue?Understanding our relationship with HASHEM is the first line of defense against arrogance, and as it turns out, the sense of humility is central to all of avodas HASHEM. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#36 - For the Love of Money Mar 09, 2019

I heard hes worth 10 million dollars, is not so uncommon an expression for us to hear, even within our own community. The reality is that to many people, their self worth is equal to their net worth. While we assume that our values come exclusively from a Torah Perspective and not from the world around us, the reality is that the world we live in has a real effect on our thoughts and attitudes. In our society money has a prominence and significance that affects even bnai Torah.This Shmuz helps us focus on the Torahs view of money and how to shape our attitudes towards it. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#37 - Three Types of Miracles, The Fifth Level of Emunah Mar 09, 2019

Hashem created this world. Hashem orchestrates this world but there is another dimension of Hashems relationship with this world -- Hashem is the maintainer of this world. A very deep Shmuz that deals with the way that HASHEM interacts with this world, and directly deals with some fundamental questions: How I can have free will, when HASHEM knows what I am going to do? How can HASHEM be in so many different places at the same time? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#38 - Where is Hashem, The Sixth Level of Emunah Mar 09, 2019

We are trained from our school years to say boruch Hashem and im yirtzeh Hashem. Yet it seems that something is lacking. While we mouth the words that Hashem is responsible and we thank Hashem, if we are honest with ourselves we will soon recognize that what is lacking from our sentiments is Hashem. The sense of Hashems presence and involvement in our life that we talk about is what is missing from our understanding. Understanding the sixth and highest level of emunah, we are brought to understand some of the deepest thoughts of which man is capable. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#39 - I Need, Needs Mar 09, 2019

It is clear that Hashem is capable -- very capable. It is also clear that Hashem has great wisdom -- enough wisdom and capacity to create the cosmos and all that it contains, with words alone -- from galaxies that stretch over billons of light years, to tiny amoeba that float in a sea of flotsam, all parts of the whole, all harmoniously integrated, all so seemingly perfect. Yet Hashem created man incomplete, with many needs. It seems that Hashem could have created man to be much less needy - yet Hashem didnt. This Shmuz focuses us on the importance of needs in our life. And we come away with the understandings that not only arent these" needs" frivolous things to be rejected; they are actually an essential part of the growth process of life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#40 - Acher, The Importance of Torah, Founding an Organization Mar 09, 2019

Elisha Ben Avuha was one of the greatest Torah scholars who ever lived--He was a tanna, a great Torah teacher, and the rebbe of Rebbe Meir -- until he became Acher, the Heretic. In that state he undid all of the good that he had accomplished, and did things that were purely evil. Yet, when he died, he wasnt allowed into Gehenom, because of the merit of Torah until his student, Rebbe Meir, begged for mercy. Through this gripping story we are introduced to the value of Torah learning, the one act that can never leave a person. A great motivating Shmuz for setting goals and succeeding in learning. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#41 - Rebbe Akiva and Rochel, Potential of the Individual Mar 09, 2019

At the age of 40, Akiva the shepherd went off to learn and transformed himself into the Torah giant known throughout history. We all know the basic story line, but we may not know that he promptly quit and set back home -- a failure. One event changed his life and gave him the strength and fortitude to turn back and succeed. Detailing the events of Rebbe Akivas struggle, the story of sacrifice, failure and eventual success, we are introduced to some of the most moving events that shaped this great leader of men.An inspiring lesson to all of us who at one time or other felt, Im not cut out for learning. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#42 - Tricks of the Soton Mar 09, 2019

Chazal tell us that Hashem created a malach whose sole job it is to trip up man -- to get us to sin, to get us to fail, to get us to mess up. Where is he? What voice does he speak with? How can I identify him? For most of us, without direct guidance from chazal it is difficult to quantify and identify the soton. Does he speak in my head? Whose voice does he use? How can I tell? This Shmuz brings us face to face with a powerful force that is foreign to western thought, and requires great understanding to recognize. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#43 - Soton out of the Box Mar 09, 2019

It seems that it should be easier now to grow than in any previous generation. We have wealth, luxuries, freedom from oppression, and we have time. We enjoy so many time saving devices and conveniences that it would surely seems that we are finally free to sit and learn. And in fact, it seems that we should be able to reach great heights - and yet it is harder than ever to serve Hashem. It seems that somehow in earlier generations it was just easier to sit and learn, but why?This Shmuz focuses on the one area that the Soton was given control over in this generation, that one area he is allowed full control over, the one area he is allowed to go full power... See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#44 - Bar Kamtza - Do you really have Free Will? Mar 09, 2019

I accept that each persons life span is set before they are born. I also accept that the question is visited on Rosh Hashanah when Hashem decides who will live and who will die. All that is fine and well, until I pick up a gun and say to myself, cant I decide to end that persons life? Isnt it obvious that whether that person will live or die is now in my hands? Using the Tisha BAv Gemarah as a backdrop we are brought into some of philosophys deepest questions: resolving the issue of how much of life is in HASHEMs control, and how much is in mans. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#45 - WYSIWYG- Developing Willpower Mar 09, 2019

Its true that Im not quite where I hope to be one day. Its even true that there are many thoughts that go through my head that Im not proud of. I am still selfish and self centered, and there are many things that I feel that I would be deeply ashamed of if anyone else knew about them. But its OK, because one day I will change. This Shmuz focuses us on the shocking realization that as I am at the last moment of life, exactly as I am, is how I will be for eternity. The same attitudes, thoughts and desires that course through my mind now will be a part of me forever. When I leave this earth -WYSIWYG- What You See Is What You Get. I will be exactly as I am now, with one difference; you and everyone else will be able to see me, exactly as I am, with all of my positive thoughts and all of my negative ones. This Shmuz also brings us to understand the preciousness of life, -- that as long as there is a breath in my being, I can change -- I can shape myself; mold myself into what I will be for eternity. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#46 - Greatness of Man- Beyond our Understanding Mar 09, 2019

Chazal teach us that HASHEM would have created the entire world for one man: the sun, the moon and the stars, the planets and constellations, the oceans, the rivers and the birds -- all for one human being. The question is what exactly is so great about man? What is so fantastically meaningful and significant about one man that it was worth creating all of heaven and earth just for him? Using the famous event of Hillels students following him to the bathhouse as a backdrop, we are brought to a new understanding of the significance of Man and what is expected from him a mindset very much missing from Western Thought. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#47 - Cognitive Restrucing Mar 09, 2019

The last of the Ten Commandments is You shall not covet. Simply stated one should not be desirous of his neighbors property, possessions or any attribute that he may have. On the face of things this seems to be a very difficult mitzvah to observe. If my neighbor has something that is beautiful, he owns a magnificent home, he drives a beautiful car or has a fantastic job, isn't it human nature to feel jealous? How can the Torah ask me to do something that goes against the very nature of man? Granted the Torah can tell me not to take revenge, or not to take out my frustration on my neighbor, but how can the Torah expect me to control that which I feel in my heart-- something, clearly out of my control?In this Shmuz we are introduced to a fundamental concept in personal growth: that our very emotional needs and desires are moldable. Not only can we change what we do, we can change our very attitudes and even the way that we feel about things. The primary system in this process is cognitive restructuring, reshaping the way that we thing about things, what we value, how we feel, and ultimately what we aspire to. This is a fundamental concept for many areas of growth in life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#16 - Olam Habba: The Greatest Motivator Mar 09, 2019

Alan Dershowitz, in his book The Vanishing Jew, describes that as part of a course he taught in Harvard Law school, one of his co-professors decided to rate G-d. They decided to sit in judgment of Hashem, to determine how good a job He did when He created this world. Their conclusion? They found much good, much wisdom and forethought, but they also found much suffering and pain, needless pain. So on balance they gave G-d a B-. Forgetting about the absurdity of a flesh and blood man judging G-d, the question is valid. If in fact HASHEM is all good, and if in fact HASHEM created this world to give to man, it surely would seem that HASHEM could have done a better job at creating man and this world. This Shmuz brings us to understand some of the most basic issues that a Ben Torah must fully comprehend in terms of why HASHEM created this world and what HASHEM has in mind for man. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#17 - Acquiring Olam Habba The Easy Way, (Everyone Needs a Mike) Mar 09, 2019

We spend our life trying to gain Olam Habbah. All of our learning, all of our chessesd, all of our davening, is directed towards creating what I will be forever. Yet sometimes it seems that we work harder and not smarter towards our goal. In this Shmuz, we are introduced to a simple method to dramatically increase our portion in Olam Habbah- a smarter way. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#18 - The Difference Between Emunah and Bitachon - Four Levels To Emunah Mar 09, 2019

Did you ever notice that no one does anything wrong? It seems that no matter how clear it is to you and me that this person is engaged in self destructive behavior, he doesn't admit that he is doing something wrong or harmful; rather he comes up with an entire rationale why it is good and in fact proper.To allow for Free Will, we humans had to be given this ability to rationalize away our behavior, to view what we do, whatever we do, as right and proper, because otherwise we could never allow ourselves to do something that is "wrong". Using some commonplace examples, we are brought to focus on both our need to explain away what we do as justified, and what we can do to grow beyond this most human failing. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#19 - Free will - Part 2: I Never Do Anything Wrong Mar 09, 2019

In this introduction to emunah, we are presented with four basic levels of belief: 1. Hashem created the world. 2. Hashem is involved in the really big picture issues - war, famine, life and death. 3. Hashem knows my inner thoughts. 4. Hashem is intimately involved in my day to day life. After outlining and defining the levels, we are given practical techniques to improve our level of belief in all four categories, so that we can not only know in our minds these understandings, but actually feel them. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#20 - Davening - Making it Real Mar 09, 2019

Of course we daven. Three times a day. Everyday. The question is how real our davening is, and to whom are we davening. It often seems that our davening is more talking to the walls than talking to Hashem. This Shmuz helps us focus on some of the most basic principles in Judaism, things we always knew, yet take for granted, and are so critical for our growth as religious Jews and thinking people. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#21 - Choosing a Career Mar 09, 2019

It is clear that Hashem wants man to work for a living. But is there a particular profession that I should I be doing to make a living? Does the Torah have a formula for me to figure out exactly what line of work I should pursue? Using the system explained by the Chovos Halevovos we are given clear directions towards finding the right way for me to earn my living. (Essential hashkafa for a person just starting out on their professional path, as well as for an individual who is already well established.) See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#22 - Evolution - Does it Make Sense? Mar 09, 2019

To many of us the issue of belief in the Creator boils down to logic against faith. As if from a purely rational, intellectual point of view it would appear that the world evolved, and we who believe have to hold on to our faith against the onslaught of logic and scientific discoveries. In this Shmuz we are asked to look at matters from a very different vantage point, namely: that which passes in the media as popular science, is neither popular nor science. And the reality is that from a dispassionate position of pure logic, the basic premise that the world just occurred on its own, is so implausible as to make it almost untenable. In the end we are brought to the question: Does Evolution make any sense? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#24 - Understanding Life Settings Mar 09, 2019

It almost seems as if some people are born with a silver spoon in their mouth, while others are destined to suffer. Why is it is that some people are born with amazing capacity, and others are created so simple? Why is there autism in the world? Why Down Syndrome? If in fact God is just, why not mete out talents and abilities in an equal manner to all people?Using the backdrop of a famous event brought in the Talmud; this Shmuz focuses us on some of the big picture issues of life, helping us understand life settings, as they apply to each person. Why are some people blessed with success and others not? Is there a reason for suffering in the world? What about pain? What about death? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#23 - I willl never die. Not me. No way. Mar 09, 2019

While this may be philosophys greatest question, isnt it something that any thinking person must answer: What is my purpose in existence? Drawing from The Path of the Just, this Shmuz focuses us on finding the true meaning and purpose of our life.What is my purpose in life?What are my true core values?What does it mean after death I will live on? I will be dead! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#25 - They Dont Make Anti Semites Like They Used To Mar 09, 2019

Over the course of history, it seems that there has been no shortage of anti-Semites, people who truly hate Jews and would do anything in their power to put an end to the Jewish Problem. Yet it also seems that if you ask the common anti-Semite, why is it that you hate the Jew? Likely, he wouldnt be able to answer. I know that you dream about their demise- but why? What is it about them that bothers you so? Yet there was a time when anti-Semites not only hated Jews, but they could tell you why. And that reason is very important for us as Jews to understand. Using Megillas Esther as the background for the Shmuz, we are introduced to the Torahs understanding of why there is Anti-Semitism in the world. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#26 - Loshon Horah, Squandering our Olam Habbah Mar 09, 2019

Of course loshon horah is forbidden. We know it was the prime cause of the destruction of the Bais HaMikdash, and of course we know that we arent supposed to speak it--yet we do. A big part of the reason is that we dont really see it as wrong, we dont see it as damaging, and we certainly dont see the act of speaking as something that will cost us in the future.This Shmuz is a powerful introduction to the effects that our words have on other peoples lives in this world, and on ours in the World to Come. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

06 - It's not Geneivah, It's Shtick Mar 09, 2019

It is very difficult for us human beings to accept that we do things that are wrong, and so we rationalize. We create illusions and fanciful stories that we ourselves dont believe. And so, you will find intelligent, otherwise rational people saying things like, Of course I wouldnt steal, stealing is dishonest, but this isnt stealing .Its shtick. We mach shtick. We mach Shtick with the tickets, mach shtick with the regents. But its O.K because its not stealing; its only shtick.This Shmuz helps us identify something that has become blight in our community, the lack of a true sense of integrity in all of our dealings. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

07 - Noach - Understanding Belief Mar 09, 2019

By all accounts Noach was a Tzadik. Yet he didnt go into the teivah until the water forced him in. Rashi tells us the reason was that Noach Believed and he didnt believe. Whilst he knew that Hashem was going to bring a mabul, he still doubted it. What seems perplexing is that Hashem spoke to Noach telling him there would be a flood. Not only that, but Noach had spent the last 120 years building a teivah for the flood. How was it possible that he didn't believe that Hashem was actually going to bring the flood? Through this Shmuz we are introduced to one of the most fundamental concepts in belief, and why in fact true faith is so difficult for us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

08 - Power of Prayer Mar 09, 2019

We all daven, and on some level we know that Davening works. But do we really understand it? Do we really understand that our prayers have an effect on our lives? Do we really understand that my davening can change the circumstances of my life?This Shmuz helps us understand the profound effect that tefilah can have on situations and settings that directly affect our lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

09 - Akaidas Yitzchak Mar 09, 2019

After all is said and done, what was so great about the Akeidah? Throughout history many people have been called upon and have made great sacrifices. Yet this single act echoes through the millennia. What was so unique about what Avrahom did? What was so special about the way he did it? And more pointedly, what relevance does it have for us some 3,700 years later? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

10 - Questioning G-d: Finding and Keeping Your Bashert Mar 09, 2019

The Shadchan says, "So tell me, what are you looking for?" And, out comes the laundry list."I need someone who is extroverted, funny, and outgoing.""I need a woman who is very frum, good, kind, tolerant, and funny.""I need a guy who is tall, a take-charge type, strong but not headstrong."And unwittingly, many people make the first mistake of the dating game - they aren't looking for their Bashert- they have already formed him in their minds, and now are out to find the one that comes the closest to that image.It is almost like the children's toy Mr. Potato Head. You get to design the doll, choose red lips, big ears, small eyes, short legs Before going out most people go through a sort of personal inventory: "Let's see. Since I am., I need" Unconsciously, they put together a wish list of qualities to take out into the market place. Then amazingly, they find themselves frustrated. "I just can't find Mr. Right."This is a must-listen-to Shmuz offering a practical down to earth way to avoid the two most common mistakes made in finding and keeping your Bashert. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

11 - Kibud Av of Eisav - Appreciating Parents Mar 09, 2019

Of course we appreciate our parents. Of course we respect them. Isnt that only natural? Doesnt everyone? And yet we dont. We live in a society that doesnt seem to know the meaning of the word respect. There is no respect for authority, no respect for institutions, no respect for elders, and even no respect for ourselves. Unfortunately, we are affected by this, and this lack of respect goes so far as to shape our relationships, and the way we relate even to people that we love. This Shmuz deals with some of the basic concepts of human relations and introduces us to eye opening insights about respect in general. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#12 - People of Principle Mar 09, 2019

We know the Avos and Imahos were great individuals -- but what made them so great? Where did they get the moral courage to see what was right, and stick to it against all external pressures?Through the famous story of Rochel giving up her husband to her sister Leah so as not to embarrass her, we are introduced to some of the basic ingredients that shape any great persons success the moral strength to be a person of principle. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#13 - Free Will, Part 1: Nefesh Habahami, Nefesh Hasichli Mar 09, 2019

Has there ever been a time when you reacted to something, and you couldnt believe that it was you who was speaking that way? Have you ever said something and had a feeling of, What came over me it was as if I were possessed?In this introduction to the inner workings of the human being, we come face to face with the understanding that I am created from very diverse elements. Within me are different forces pulling in opposite directions. Not only isnt this accidental, it is actually a necessary component of FREE WILL. Free Will means that I could go either way. It is my choice, not something that I was programmed to do that made me choose this way. Yet without this there would be no temptation, and Man would do good - only good, not because he chose to, but because he was programmed for it, hence there would be no Free Will. In this integral introduction to the complexity of the human we are given a glimpse into understanding the forces behind the different behaviors within ourselves. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#14 - Living like a Rock Mar 09, 2019

What if I just live my life, as any other occupant of this planet? What is so bad about that? Lets say, I am no worse than Joe the UPS driver, or Bob the mechanic, will Hashem really be upset with me? In this Shmuz we are brought to understand how great the human is, and how much he can accomplish. Within the context of this understanding the question of What am I accomplishing with my life?, becomes much more acute -- if I truly have great potential and I am wasting it- if I am living like a rock, will I be held responsible to answer for this? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

#15 - Chanukah G-d fights Our Wars Mar 09, 2019

What actually happened in the war to recapture the Bais Hamikdash? How many battles were fought? How long did they last? What was it like living in Yerushlayim at the time?Detailing the story of Chanukah as brought in Megillas Chashmonaim, this Shmuz brings us closer to understanding the events of the time, and appreciating the miracle that unfolded. It then takes us forward in time to some modern miracles that seem to overshadow even those of the Chanukah time period. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

01 - Eternal People Mar 09, 2019

Eternal People See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

02 - Rosh Hashanah Issues of the Day Mar 09, 2019

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04 - Appreciating Olam Hazeh Mar 09, 2019

If a person looks at the features of this world they will quickly see that Hashem invested great wisdom and care in making man 's stay on the planet enjoyable. From the different foods, each one with its unique flavor, aroma and textures; to the colors of flowers and magnificent sea scapes , so much of the beauty of this world was not necessary. It is clear that Hashem put much thought into creating a world that man can enjoy. The question is, Do we in fact enjoy it? This Shmuz focuses on the Torah's attitude towards enjoying the pleasures of this world. This may come as a surprise to some people. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

03 - Yom Kippur The power of Teshuvah Mar 09, 2019

Using the event of Eliezer Bar Dudia gaining the title of Rebbe, we are introduced to one of the greatest acts of teshuvah ever achieved by a human. We witness a human rise from the depths of depravity to the heights of spirituality in the course of a few hours. Through the story of his life, we see what a man accomplished in but a day -- and we are brought to a new appreciation of how great the potential of the human being is. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

05 - Appreciating Our Wealth Mar 09, 2019

Never in the history of man have so many people enjoyed so much material wealth and possessions. The average tax paying citizen of today enjoys riches and comforts that kings of yesteryear couldnt envision or imagine -- and yet it seems that we dont appreciate what we have. We become so accustomed to the extraordinary wealth we possess that we no longer think of it as riches; we even start asking, How could anyone live without it?This Shmuz focuses on the wealth that we enjoy, and helps us come to a sense of appreciation to our Creator for all that He has given us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Introduction - Making it Real (Part 1) Mar 14, 2019

Making truth real to us. That is our challenge, knowing how to bridge the gap between the mind and the heart. But why has Hashem set up the world this way? Why is it a constant struggle to internalize what we know to be right? Join Rabbi Shafier as he embarks upon the Mesillas Yesharim and learn how The Ramchal guides us to discovering who we truly are. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: The Foundation Of It All (Part 2) Mar 20, 2019

In this captivating class Rabbi Shafier gives a detailed outline as to why our understanding of the World to Come is so central to our Yiddishkeit. The Mesilas Yesharim places great emphasis on the importance of making the World to Come real to us right now- in this essential class Rabbi Shafier gives us practical guidance on how to make this fundamental concept more relevant to our lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Three Obstacles to the World to Come (Part 3) Mar 27, 2019

When was the last time you spaced out during davening? Spoke loshen hara? Found yourself at the mercy of your drives and instincts? We all have this problem-and the name of that problem is called ‘being human’. The cloak of physicality blinds us to fully recognizing what our souls know to be real and true. Tap into this class for a greater understanding of the obstacles we face in this world-and how they can be overcome. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Overlays (Part 4) Apr 03, 2019

Why doesn’t serving Hashem come easy? If our souls want it, shouldn’t it be second nature? Over three-hundred years ago The Ramchal addressed this very question. By learning more about the tension between the guf and the neshama we can begin to understand our reluctance to grow. By getting real about our character traits we can move beyond our ego and fulfil our purpose in this world. Finally, the imperative to understand how our life settings challenge our personal development is also explained in clear, real-life examples that brings the Mesilas Yesharim right into our everyday experience. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: The System of Growth (Part 5) Apr 09, 2019

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Mesilas Yesharim Series: I Never Do Anything Wrong (Part 6) Apr 17, 2019

Why is that we rationalize away our shortcomings? When it comes others, their faults are clear. But ourselves? We find every excuse. This is problematic as it holds back our potential and damages our relationship with Hashem. In this class Rabbi Shafier gives us clear guidance on how to move beyond our ego while keeping our self-esteem intact. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Changing Currencies (Part 7) Apr 24, 2019

As we move through life, our currencies change, and our values shift. If you want to ensure that your ‘currency’ is in line with the Torah, watch this class. It will show you how to get a clear perspective on what our focus should be; giving us riches in this world and the world to come. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Spiritual Machines (Part 8) May 01, 2019

There are forces in this world beyond what the eye can see.Even though they may not be obvious to our five senses, we take for granted gravity, radio waves and energy. So too, the world is run by spiritual forces that are influenced by our actions here on earth. This powerful shiur will help you see the significance of even the smallest, seemingly insignificant mitzvah. Prepared to be both inspired and terrified by this fundamental hashkafa. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: The Power Given to Man (Part 9) May 08, 2019

Get to know the real you. Why do our emotions get hijacked? What stirs our soul? Why do we feel a sense of dissatisfaction when we waste our time? Our neshamas are complex. This class will give you a deeper understanding of what makes us tick-and what holds us back. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parshas Kedoshim - Parsha in Depth May 09, 2019

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Mesilas Yesharim Series: Suffering in This World (Part 10) May 15, 2019

If we accept that Hashem is very good at being Hashem, a thinking person must marvel at the variety and intensity of pain that He has created-and then ask themselves why it must be this way. The question of suffering is discussed at length in the Mesillas Yesharim. In this class Rabbi Shafier brings down the Ramchal’s teachings to show us how suffering cannot make sense without an awareness of Olam HaBa. It’s essential viewing for anyone who wishes to make sense of the darker side of life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parshas Emor -- Parsha in Depth May 16, 2019

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Mesilas Yesharim Series: A Hole in my Soul (Part 11) May 22, 2019

Why can’t Man just be happy? Always running, always chasing, nothing is ever enough. In this mind blowing class, Rabbi Shafier teaches us how our souls were created for greatness. We are always longing for more because we know we can be more. How to get there? Watch to find out! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Pleasures and Desires (Part 12) May 29, 2019

Are you a pleasure seeker, but feel kinda guilty about it because enjoying life isn’t a ‘Jewish’ concept? In this class, Rabbi Shafier addresses misconceptions such as this full on, showing us how to use the pleasures that Hashem has created to become better, more spiritual human beings. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: Happiness (Part 13) Jun 05, 2019

Most people aren't happy. Why not? Even when a person can have all of their physical wants and needs met, they can still feel empty inside. Caveat: We’re not talking mental illness here. We’re discussing the pain a soul feels from ignoring it’s potential. It’s a pain familiar to all of us. Tune into this class understand it better and reach a greater level of fulfillment in your life. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Mesilas Yesharim Series: The Main Thing (Part 14) Jun 12, 2019

You are a spiritual being having a temporary physical experience in this world. It’s so easy to forget that, and spend our lives entirely focused on the banality of olam hazeh. But if we learn how to ‘keep the main thing the main thing’ we can move beyond our physical existence into an eternal life of contentment. Rabbi Shafier teaches us in Class Fourteen how to keep our focus and forever reap the reward for doing so. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parshas Nasoh--Parsha in Depth Jun 13, 2019

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Shmuz on the Parsha - Bereshis Jun 16, 2019

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Mesilas Yesharim Series: Internal System and External System (Part 15) Jun 19, 2019

In the final class of the first perek, Rabbi Shafier develops the idea of how important our actions are in both this world and the next. In this incredibly encouraging shiur, we learn the great potential within us and how to maximize our deeds for eternity. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parshas Beha'aloscha--Parsha in Depth Jun 20, 2019

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Parshas Shelach--Parsha in Depth Jun 27, 2019

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Parshas Korach -- Parsha in Depth Jul 03, 2019

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Parshas Chukas--Parsha in Depth Jul 11, 2019

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Emunah in the Workplace - Part 1 Jul 11, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Announcing the Marriage Transformation Seminar Aug 05, 2019

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE About the Marriage Transformation SeminarThe MARRIAGE TRANSFORMATION SEMINAR will:Help you reconnect to your spouse and rekindle the passion in your relationship.Stop the fighting, bickering and feeling lonely in your marriageLearn to be EMOTIONALLY INTELLIGENT and create a harmonious loving marriage.Rabbi Shafier’s Marriage Transformation Seminar will give you a clear, proven system to improve your marriage. It’s the only marriage program out there that offers the consistent, personal guidance from a trusted Torah authority, endorsed by leading marriage therapists and Rabbonim.This breakthrough Seminar will allow you to rediscover love, connection and friendship-even if your spouse refuses to change. Join other growth-orientated couples who have deepened their bond of love through the Marriage Transformation Seminar and have the marriage you have always dreamed of.Register at: MARRIAGE.THESHMUZ.COM See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 2 Aug 07, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 3 Aug 14, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 4 Aug 21, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 5 Aug 28, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Transform Your Marriage! | Sunday, September 1st | 8 PM EST Aug 28, 2019

Reconnect to your spouse and rekindle the passion in your relationshipStop the fighting, bickering, and feeling lonely in your marriageLearn to be EMOTIONALLY INTELLIGENT and create a harmonious loving marriage See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 6 Sep 04, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 7 Sep 11, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Emunah in the Workplace - Part 8 Sep 18, 2019

Earning a living was never easy. Yet, it seems that we work harder then ever today, and still, we barely seem to make ends meet. The strange part is that there was never as much wealth, abundance and opportunity as there is today. By all standards we earn more then any previous generation—yet we continue to struggle. And, while we enjoy a host of technological advances that free mankind from most physical labor—we still have to fight to provide for our families. It almost seems like there’s a plan to keep man working. But why? Why would HASHEM want us to work? What would HASHEM want us to spend so many hours doing things that aren’t really important, and don’t help us grow?This series deals with the many issues associated with working for a living.Why does HASHEM want us to work for a living?How do I know what is the right amount of effort that I should put in?When can I say to HASHEM, “I have done all that I can. Now it’s up to You.”Why is that no matter how much I earn, I always seem to be in debt?Is there an easier way to provide for my family?What things can help guarantee a good parnasah (living)?Why does HASHEM give wealth to certain people?Is there a way to know what I should be doing to earn a living?Is there a way of knowing how hard I should work?When it comes to earning a living: What is HASHEM’s role? What is mine?Is Kollel for Life permitted?Is there an operating principle that I can use to guide the efforts that I put in?If I enjoy a particular type of work, but it doesn’t pay enough, may I still do it, and rely on HASHEM to provide? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 1 Sep 25, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 2 Oct 02, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 3 Oct 23, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha-Bereishis-The Greatness of Man Oct 24, 2019

Parshas BereishisThis week, we are discussing why the world wasn’t created with the giving of the Torah. Why did everything hinge on one man? What does the creation of Adom HaRishon teach us about our own everyday interactions with others?Join me as I unravel some incredible explanations and give some hard points to ponder. Does gadlus haadom only extend to ourselves? How can we move forward in our bein adam l’chavero in light of Parshas Bereishis? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha - Noach - Basics of Belief Oct 27, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 4 Oct 30, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha - Lech Lecha Nov 04, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 5 Nov 06, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha Vayeirah - Anatomy of a Nisayon Nov 11, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 6 Nov 13, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha- Chayei Sarah Nov 17, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 7 Nov 20, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha- Tolodos Nov 24, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 8 Nov 27, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha-Vayeitzei Dec 02, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 9 Dec 04, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha - Vayishlach Dec 08, 2019

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Shmuz on the Parsha Men are from Mars Dec 10, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 10 Dec 11, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Vayeshev Dec 16, 2019

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Life 101 - Part 11 Dec 18, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 12 Dec 25, 2019

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 13 Jan 01, 2020

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 14 Jan 08, 2020

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 15 Jan 15, 2020

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha - Shemos Jan 16, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Vaeirah Jan 19, 2020

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The Tefillah Project 1 Prayer-A Changed Reality Jan 20, 2020

If you do the math, we spend around two hours a day davening. In plain language, by the time someone’s reached twenty years old, that’s ten thousand hours they’ve invested in tefillah. What do we have to show for this dedication of our time? Are we davek with Hashem, baalei emunah? Unfortunately, most of us have difficulty connecting. Our senses deny Hashem, and we struggle to communicate with Something beyond our frame of reference or understanding. How do we bridge this gap? In this introductory class, learn the three indispensable tips to transcending the physical world and turn your davening into an incredibly transformative experience. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Life 101 - Part 16 Jan 22, 2020

Don’t you wish life came with an instruction manual?It does…Using real life situations, powerful examples, and meaningful observations, it brings basic Torah wisdom to making sense of out why HASHEM made us, what we are doing here, and what we need to be truly happy.It deals with the fundamental issues facing a growing person in our hectic, confusing times.Topics like:· Why is life often so difficult?· Why is there so much suffering in the world?· What is the Torah’s approach to pleasure (This may come as a big surprise)· Why are some mitzvahs so difficult?· How can I stay motivated to grow, when so many things distract me? (It’s not as difficult as you might think)Based on the first perek of the Misillos Yesharim.If you had a chance to read the Shmuz book Stop Surviving, Start Living, you’ll recognize some of the issues that that this series deal with. The Life 101 set expands on those ideas, and digs in more deeply into them.Packaged in an attractive binder, on both CD as well as DVD disks, it comes together with a workbook. It is also available on line to stream or download.The series is divided into 16 sections.Each section is about 30 minute long.16 CDs + 4 DVDs of the Video24 page source book included” See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz 272 More Powerful Than G-d Jan 24, 2020

In this powerful Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier discusses the spiritual forces that cause cognitive dissonance and shows us how we can have a chance at living a more authentic and truthful existence. If you want to have the clarity to move forward through this thing called life, you need to understand what motivates and drives you. This shmuz will change everything you ever thought about yourself. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Bo - The 5th and 6th Level of Emunah Jan 26, 2020

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The Tefillah Project 2 Why Daven? Jan 27, 2020

In the second part of the Tefillah Project, Rabbi Shafier outlines how Hashem is the ultimate energy source of everything, constantly maintaining physicality and keeping everything in existence. Despite the fact that Hashem is outside of our frame of reference, we are commanded to develop a feeling of yirah and ahavas Hashem. How do we achieve this? In this class, discover how to cut through the darkness and see Hashem. Learn how to relate to Hashem through his middos and develop an understanding of the wisdom and beauty that is manifest in the world around us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz 271 It’s Not The Way It’s Supposed to Be Jan 31, 2020

If we really understood the holiness of a neshama, we’d be blown away. Yet our reality is that we don’t appreciate the incredible potential enclosed within each of us-we don’t even appreciate ourselves. It’s not supposed to be this way. We were meant to achieve great spiritual heights during our lifetime, so what holds us back? In this shockingly honest shmuz Rabbi Shafier discusses his own challenges with growth and gives us some insight as to how we can get focused on moving forward. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Beshalach Feb 02, 2020

The Mitzrim endured the makos, witnessed krias yam suf and were prevented from attacking B’nei Yisroel by the impenetrable cloud of glory. These events form the basis of our emunah system, and yet they didn’t seem to have such a profound effect on the people living in Egypt. Until the bitter end they denied Hashem’s existence and control over every facet of physicality.Unfortunately, we can also be guilty of living like a Mitzri. The gift of bechirah means we are capable of denying the nissim in our own lives and often refuse to acknowledge the wonders of creation. Our imaginations tempt us to deny what our neshamas instinctively know to be true, and our egos loath to be wrong. In this electrifying shmuz, Rabbi Shafier urges us to look at the world without an agenda, consider the intricacies inherent in creation and acknowledge Hashem’s hand in every aspect of the universe. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Tefillah Project 3 The Power of Prayer Feb 05, 2020

We see in the Torah that tefillah is powerful. Through tefillah,Sara Imeinu is given a child, a miracle comparable to techias hameisim. Yismael cries out to Hashem and is saved in the desert, despite his rishus. What gives davening it’s incredible potency? In the third class of the Tefillah Project, Rabbi Shafier describes how Hashem feels our pain like a father, and can change decrees simply because of His unending love for us. Can prayer have an effect when you’re just a regular person? Absolutely. Every tefillah has an impact. Listen to The Power of Prayer and gain encouragement and direction on how to pour out our hearts and change our lives. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

270 Who Makes It In the World to Come Feb 07, 2020

What’s the minimum level that’s required to get into Gan Eden? The Derech Hashem addressed this question three hundred years ago-and says something remarkable. Tune into this shmuz to get an understanding of the possible reasons for wealth, poverty, suffering and reward in this world. It will flip your world view upside down. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Yisro - Cognitive Restructuring Feb 09, 2020

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Purim: Story Behind the Story 1 Feb 09, 2020

Megillas Esther Session One: What to do with a Problem Like Vashti?In the first class on Megillas Esther, Rabbi Shafier explains how the Megillah begins-the history, the context and the background of the story. Learn why Achashverosh was reluctant to kill his queen, the motivations behind Haman’s bizarre marriage advice and how incredible hashgacha pratis was evident from the very beginning. This perek-by-perek series will transform your experience of krias Megillah and give a new depth of knowledge to a familiar tale. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

269 The 6 Constant Mitzvos Feb 09, 2020

The Six Constant Mitzvos are the six keys that are vital to connecting with Hashem and understanding our role in this world. As the Mishnah Brurah explains, we are created to be ovdei Hashem, and our every thought and action should be a reflection of this awareness. You see if we really believed that Hashem is right here, observing everything we do, we would undoubtedly serve Hashem very differently. This Shmuz explains in clear language how to gain this level of mindfulness and encourages us to see the hand of Hashem throughout our day. It’s fundamental listening for anyone who wants to ensure they are living life for its ultimate purpose and is looking to develop their understanding of Torah-true hashkafa. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

267 We Only Fight With Friends Feb 16, 2020

The dor haflaga had an explicit mission to rebel against Hashem and were in many ways worse than the generation of Noach. Why didn’t Hashem destroy them? Rashi tells us it was because they acted towards one another with love and friendship. In fact, it was only when the languages were mixed up that the fighting began. In this shmuz on interpersonal relationships, Rabbi Shafier studies the ingredients of a macklokes and shares some essential tips on how to get along better with those around us. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Purim: Story Behind the Story 2 Feb 16, 2020

Megillas Esther Session Two: Mordechai Won’t WaitMordechai’s timings were extraordinary. He demanded that Esther risk her life and approach Achashverosh, even though Achasverosh was imminently due to summon her. He refused to delay a national taanis, and instead called for Klal Yisroel to fast from the first day of Pesach, forgoing the zechus and mitzvas aseh of achilas matzah. What was Mordechai’s cheshbon? And what does his reasoning teach us for our own lives? In the second class on Megillas Esther, learn why Mordechai’s rebuke is so on point. Grasp the posukim like never before, gain a heightened awareness of the Megillah and prepare to go into Purim with an elevated sense of joy and gratitude. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha - Mishpatim Feb 16, 2020

Parshas Mishpatim-Torah: Rocket Fuel for the SoulThe Jewish contribution to mankind is astounding. In every industry, in every profession, the Jewish people consistently play a significant role, far surpassing our tiny population. It’s clear that we are the am segula, the messengers for revealed good in the world. Nevertheless, our gan eden isn’t dependent on whether we are chess champions or nuclear physicists. The Torah teaches us that our olam haba will be built upon how much we choose to connect to the Ribbono shel Olam in this world.Our constant, unrelenting challenge of life is that our souls are distracted, pulled by our nefesh habahami to indulge in the here and now. The antidote? Limud HaTorah. Through limud haTorah, we are able to connect with the Eternal and discover the part of us that craves transcendence. In this week’s podcast, learn how to ignite your neshama through the joy of learning and gain a genuine Torah outlook on what ‘tikkun olam’ really means. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Purim: Story Behind the Story 3 Feb 23, 2020

Megillas Esther Session Three: Esther’s Big Deal RequestEsther stands at the threshold of the throne room, prepared to forfeit her life in this world and the next. Instead, she is assisted by three melachim, achieves ruach hakodesh and is the catalyst for Klal Yisroel’s eventual salvation. Aside from the obvious message that Hashem can always flip things around in an instant, there are many other life lessons to be learnt. Firstly, Esther’s people skills are exemplary. Want to ask for a raise? Just follow Esther’s three point plan on how to submit a request. Need chizuk in following daas Torah? Use Esther as an example. And if we want a clear warning on how not to behave we need look no further than Haman. His relentless drive for kavod shows us how if a person doesn’t control his middos, he’s destined to be utterly miserable in this world. It’s all here. Genuine, Torah-true hashkafa and timeless messages laid open for you this Purim. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz 96 Purim Seize the Moment Feb 23, 2020

Before Esther went into Achashverosh, Mordechai commanded the Jewish nation to fast for three days. Rashi tells us that those three days included the first day of Pesach. That means that Mordechai abolished themitzvosof eatingmatzah, drinking the four cups, and eatingmarrorthat year. Since there were more than eleven months until the decree was to take place, what was the sudden need for action? What was the urgency?This Shmuz demonstrates the laser focus that challenging deadlines can give us and what we can accomplish when properly motivated. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parshas Terumah: Hashem’s Role/ Man’s Role- Finding the Balance Feb 23, 2020

Parshas Terumah: Hashem’s Role/ Man’s Role- Finding the BalanceIn this week’s parsha, why does Hashem explain to Moshe how to make Menorah when it’s created miraculously? This question underpins one of the fundamental concepts in Torah hashkafa: the delicate balance between bitachon and hishtadlus. Whether it’s health, shidduchim or parnassah, how much effort are we expected to invest, and when should we say that we’re leaving it entirely to G-d? In this clarifying shiur, Rabbi Shafier exposes some crucial misconceptions and brings to light exactly what our attitude should be when it comes to working hard, paying those bills or pursuing our goals. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Purim: Story Behind the Story 4 Mar 01, 2020

Megillas Esther Session Four: On Death and DinimIn the fourth session on Megillas Esther, Rabbi Shafier brings the conclusion of the Megillah dramatically to life. From Haman’s sudden demise to our own swift salvation, this class will explain the final perakim with additional insight and depth. Discover why Purim is considered to be greater than the kabbola at Har Sinai, how Haman’s unchecked arrogance inevitably led to his downfall and what forced Mordechai to leave the Sanhedrin. If you’re looking to reach a higher madreiga this Purim, having an understanding and appreciation of the words of the Megillah is essential. Tune in here and go beyond the externals this Purim with The Shmuz. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Tizaveh Mar 01, 2020

Parshas Tetzaveh: Learning to ForgiveWe hear plenty on the importance of doing teshuvah, on loving our fellow man and learning how to be mevater. All incredibly important concepts that are essential for a Torah Jew to work on and internalize. But how often do we hear about the importance of forgiving ourselves? We are capable of becoming greater than melachim, the absolute pinnacle of creation on which the entire world rests. And yet, we have faults, and so many failings! How can we possibly achieve our purpose in this world?By recognizing that failing is a part of growth. Failing doesn’t mean we are failures. It means we are human beings. Hashem doesn’t demand perfection, He only wants us to grow, so that we can become the very best versions of ourselves. When we stop blaming ourselves for our nature, we can learn to forgive ourselves, forgive others and walk through life with a healthy sense of self. In this week’s podcast, learn how to let go of your failings and gain the emotional freedom to achieve your tafkid. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pesach: Living Through the Makos 1 Mar 08, 2020

A verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio cds with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahA verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio tapes, with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahWith an eye towards understanding the greatness of the miracles of the Makkos brought onto the Mitzrim, this series details many of the actual events that happened during the Makkos, thereby helping us feel what was actually happening in those times, and bringing us to feel the greatest miracle of all times—Yetzias Metzraim.A Great way to prepare for Pesach! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha Ki Tisa Mar 08, 2020

Parshas Ki Tisah: The Love of MoneyIn today’s society, we are relentlessly bombarded with two fallacies: One, that money equals happiness and two, that our sense of self should be defined by our net worth. The Torah rejects both of these ideas, and yet we see from this week’s parsha that attraction to money is something inherent in the briah. In this uncomfortably relevant Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier encourages us to take a long hard look at how we judge ourselves and others- are our attitudes towards money in line with Torah hashkafa? Or are we constantly pursuing the next best thing, hoping that it will give us the elusive satisfaction for which we all crave? See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz 277 - Marriage Lessons from the Meggilah Mar 10, 2020

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Pesach: Living Through the Makos 2 Mar 15, 2020

A verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio cds with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahA verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio tapes, with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahWith an eye towards understanding the greatness of the miracles of the Makkos brought onto the Mitzrim, this series details many of the actual events that happened during the Makkos, thereby helping us feel what was actually happening in those times, and bringing us to feel the greatest miracle of all times—Yetzias Metzraim.A Great way to prepare for Pesach! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on the Parsha YaYakhel Mar 15, 2020

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Pesach: Living Through the Makos 3 Mar 22, 2020

A verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio cds with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahA verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio tapes, with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahWith an eye towards understanding the greatness of the miracles of the Makkos brought onto the Mitzrim, this series details many of the actual events that happened during the Makkos, thereby helping us feel what was actually happening in those times, and bringing us to feel the greatest miracle of all times—Yetzias Metzraim.A Great way to prepare for Pesach! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Pesach: Living Through the Makos 4 Mar 29, 2020

A verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio cds with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahA verse by verse analysis of the Exodus on 4 audio tapes, with explanations drawn from the Rishonim, Gemarah, Medrash Rabbah, and Medrash TanchumahWith an eye towards understanding the greatness of the miracles of the Makkos brought onto the Mitzrim, this series details many of the actual events that happened during the Makkos, thereby helping us feel what was actually happening in those times, and bringing us to feel the greatest miracle of all times—Yetzias Metzraim.A Great way to prepare for Pesach! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz #279 Perspectives on Covid Apr 06, 2020

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Shmuz #278 DIN RACAMIM AND COVID-19 Apr 07, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Vayikrah Apr 13, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Shemini Apr 19, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Tazriah Metzorah May 03, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Shefirah May 10, 2020

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Heroes HaKotel May 17, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Covid - 19 -Life Settings May 18, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Kedoshim May 31, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Naso Jun 08, 2020

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Perspectives on Covid 19 Jun 25, 2020

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Shmuz on the Parsha Chukas Jul 05, 2020

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Shmuz #280 Jul 08, 2020

Hashem love you more than you love you See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Shmuz on The Parsha Live - Pinchas Jul 09, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 5 Jul 13, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 6 Jul 20, 2020

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Shmuz on The Parsha Live 7 - Tisha B'Av Jul 31, 2020

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Shmuz #281 Aug 03, 2020

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Shmuz #283 Aug 06, 2020

Who Put That Thought in Your Head See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Shmuz Live #8 Aug 10, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #9 Aug 16, 2020

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The Shmuz live 10 Aug 31, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 11 Sep 07, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 12 Sep 13, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 13 Sep 21, 2020

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The Teshuva Shmuz 5781- The Fantastic Gift of Teshuva Sep 27, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #14 Sep 28, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #15 Oct 02, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #16 Oct 16, 2020

Its Not Geneivah See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha in Depth - Bereishis Oct 16, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Noach Oct 18, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #17 Oct 23, 2020

The Pathology of Machlokes See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Parsha in Depth - Lech Licha Oct 25, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #18 Oct 30, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #19 Nov 06, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayeira Nov 08, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #20 Nov 13, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Chayei Sarah Nov 15, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Toldos Nov 18, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #21 Nov 20, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayeitzei Nov 22, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayishlach Nov 29, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #22 Dec 04, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayeshev Dec 06, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #23 - Chanukah Dec 12, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Miketz Dec 13, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayigash Dec 20, 2020

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The Shmuz Live #24 - An Honest Man Dec 25, 2020

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Parsha in Depth - Vayichi Dec 27, 2020

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The Shmuz Live 25 The World to Come Jan 01, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Shemos Jan 03, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 26 - Emunah and Bitachon Jan 08, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - VaYeirah Jan 10, 2021

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Listen to The Shmuz Live 27 - America The Beautiful Jan 15, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Bo Jan 18, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 28 - The sixth Level of Emunah Jan 22, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Bishalach Jan 25, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 29 - Belief Jan 29, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Yisro Feb 01, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 30 - Cognitive Restructuring Feb 05, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Mishpatim Feb 08, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 31 - Torah Rocket Fuel for the Soul Feb 12, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Terumah Feb 14, 2021

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Parsha in Depth - Tizaveh Feb 19, 2021

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The Shmuz Live 32 - Bitachon and Histadlus Feb 19, 2021

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