Video Archives - Jewish Sacred Aging: Recent Episodes
Rabbi Richard Address-Jewish Sacred Aging
A forum for the Jewish Community with resources and texts that feature discussions on the implications of the revolution in longevity for Baby Boomers and their families.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Steven Spector discusses his new book, God and the First Families: Parenting, Trauma, and Healing in the Book of Genesis. He focuses on trauma theory in Genesis, parenting styles in the Bible, and the psychological insights into biblical characters. This episode explores how ancient stories reflect human trauma and parenting dynamics, offering valuable lessons for modern life.
About the bookGod and the First Families offers a novel exploration of God’s role as a parent in the book of Genesis. Compellingly, author Stephen Spector introduces Americans’ four main perceptions of God and their four most common styles of parenting as lenses through which we can reckon with God’s own methods of parenting in the first biblical book.
God begins as an authoritarian parent who demands obedience and submission to authority, but shifts in striking ways. Next, God’s parenting seems entirely benevolent. Stunningly, God reverts to authoritarianism during the near sacrifice of Isaac―but then invents a new parenting style focused on guiding the characters’ moral and emotional growth. Many psychologists consider this the most successful childrearing method. Genesis reached that conclusion two and a half millennia ago!
Throughout, Spector engages with familiar stories―sibling rivalries, family ruptures, traumas―from unexpected angles. He dramatizes how parental love in Genesis builds resilience against trauma, another idea validated by modern psychology. Surviving trauma, healing from parental favoritism, repairing broken relationships, earning forgiveness, possibly even reconciling after injury―Genesis offers wisdom on all.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestStephen SpectorStephen Spector is a professor of English emeritus at Stony Brook University. He is the author of Operation Solomon: The Daring Rescue of the Ethiopian Jews and Evangelicals and Israel: The Story of American Christian Zionism, among other volumes. Spector has taught the Bible to undergraduate and graduate students for fifty years. He has been a visiting scholar at Hebrew University and a senior research fellow at the National Humanities Center and the Wesleyan Center for Humanities.
The post Trauma and Parenting Insights from Genesis with Dr. Steven Spector – Seekers of Meaning 7/31/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address interviews novelist Barbara Viniar about her book ‘Little Bird,’ exploring themes of immigrant history, women’s independence, and personal transformation. Discover how her family history inspired her storytelling and the insights into Jewish-American life across generations.
Barbara shares how a family photograph sparked years of research into her grandmother’s past, and how the space between documented history and imagination became the heart of the novel. Their conversation explores immigration, Jewish identity, women’s independence, family secrets, and the creative process of turning inherited stories into fiction.
They also discuss the novel’s central character, Fanny, whose journey from obligation toward self-determination reflects both an immigrant experience and a deeply personal search for agency.
About the BookIn 1910, fearing escalating violence against the Jews in Russia, Feige’s father arranges for her to marry a wealthy cousin in New York City.She will no longer be her parents’ adored “little bird.” As she adapts to life in America, she goes from being an obedient daughter to a dutiful wife, even allowing her new husband to change her name to Fannie. Longing to make her own decisions, her husband’s cruelty finally pushes her to risk leaving him. She parlays her embroidery skills into a job and finds the man she believes is the love of her life. When he betrays her, she refuses to forgive him, disregarding advice to overlook men’s lapses. Finally, she meets a man who both loves and respects her. Can she give up her hard won independence? Little Bird is the story of a girl who finds the courage to forge her own path to womanhood.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestBarbara ViniarBarbara Viniar was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. After 40 years of leadership in public higher education, including two community college presidencies, she retired to the Berkshires in 2018. At various times in her career, she taught English and Women’s Studies as an adjunct at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Her doctoral dissertation was “Women’s Moral Development in Contemporary Fiction.”
In retirement, Viniar turned to blogging and writing a daily Haiku. During COVID, a chance discovery about her grandmother compelled her to imagine the story that became her debut historical novel, Little Bird, published by Sibylline Press in August 2025.
Viniar is currently working on her second novel.
Author page: https://www.barbaraviniar.com
Substack : @barbaraviniar
Facebook: barbara.viniar.9
Instagram: @barbaraviniar
The post Novelist Barbara Viniar’s Journey: From Family Roots to Fiction – Seekers of Meaning 7/24/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi John L. Rosove, senior rabbi emeritus of Temple Israel of Hollywood, discusses his new book, Finding Your Moral Compass: Jewish Values for the 21st Century.
About the BookFinding Your Moral Compass places enduring Jewish values in a 21st century context, offering a thoughtful and enriching guide for those seeking ethical direction and spiritual grounding through and in Jewish tradition.
In this collection of 40 essays, Rabbi John L. Rosove explores foundational Jewish values and helps readers affirm their Jewish identity while drawing connections between Jewish teachings and universal moral principles.
Rosove combines classic scholarship, compassion, and personal experience in his reflections upon Judaism’s age-old moral and ethical traditions and Jewish identity as they have evolved over centuries and since the Holocaust and the establishment of the State of Israel.
As a thought-leader at the forefront of social justice and liberal Israel activism in North America, Rosove draws from his personal experiences to present moral clarity and an ethical compass for liberal Jews and all who are interested in contemporary Judaism. With accessible prose and heartfelt insight, this collection of essays invites liberal Jews – and anyone interested in finding moral clarity – to consider how Jewish wisdom can serve as a compass in navigating today’s world.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi John L. RosoveRabbi John L. Rosove is Rabbi Emeritus of Temple Israel of Hollywood in Los Angeles where he served as Senior Rabbi from 1988 to 2019. He is a past National Chairman of the Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA) representing 1.5 million Reform Jews, a member of the International Advisory Council for the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism (AIC), and a past national co-Chair of the Rabbinic and Cantorial Cabinet of J Street (a pro-Israel, pro-peace, and pro-democracy political organization based in Washington, D.C.).
John is the author of four books –
Finding Your Moral Compass – Jewish Values for the 21st Century – to be published by the University of Toronto New Jewish Press in April, 2026 – please check back then
From the West to the East – A Memoir of a Liberal American Rabbi (Fresno: West of West Center, 2024) – available from the publisher directly here and at Amazon.com.
Why Israel and its Future Matters – Letters of a Liberal Rabbi to the Next Generation with an Afterword by Daniel and David Rosove (New Jersey: Ben Yehuda Press, 2019 – 2nd edition, 2023) with a Foreword written after October 7, 2023 – available from the publisher and at Amazon.com.
Why Judaism Matters – Letters of a Liberal Rabbi to his Children and the Millennial Generation with an Afterword by Daniel and David Rosove (Nashville: Jewish Lights Publishing, a division of Turner Publishing Company, 2017) available at the publisher and at Amazon.com.
John is a co-editor of Deepening the Dialogue – Jewish-Americans and Israelis Envisioning the Jewish-Democratic State (New York: CCAR Press, 2020), in English and Hebrew. Available from the publisher and at Amazon.com.
John translated and edited the Hebrew biography of his Great-Granduncle – Avraham Shapira – Veteran of the Haganah and Hebrew Guard by Getzel Kressel (publ. by the Municipality of Petach Tikvah, 1955). The translation was privately published (2021).
John also translated and edited a book of Hebrew poetry, letters and writings by his Israeli cousin Michael Shapira (1933-1952) called In the Prime of his Days with an Introduction by Hebrew University Professor Yosef Yoel Rivlin, Michael’s cousin and the father of the former President of the State of Israel, Reuven Rivlin (published by Michael’s parents, Devorah and Yitzchak-Tzvi Shapira of Petach Tikvah, 1953). The volume was given to John by Michael’s parents in 1973. The translation was privately published (2022).
John was the 2002 Recipient of the World Union for Progressive Judaism International Humanitarian Award and has received special commendation from the State of Israel Bonds. In 2013 he was honored by J Street at its Fifth Anniversary Celebration in Los Angeles.
John wrote a series of 8 Jewish Life Cycle Guides. The Guide Preparing for Jewish Burial and Mourning appears on the web-site of Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary in Los Angeles. (http://hillsidememorial.org/jewish-lifecycle-guide/).
John writes a regular blog that appears at The Times of Israel at https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/author/john-l-rosove/ and this blog – https://rabbijohnrosove.blog/. His Facebook site is www.facebook.com/RabbiJohnLRosove – his LinkedIn site is https://www.linkedin.com/in/rabbijohnrosove
John is married to Barbara. They are the parents of two sons – Daniel and David. Daniel is married to Marina. John and Barbara have two grandchildren and live in Los Angeles.
The post Finding Your Moral Compass: Jewish Values Explained, with Rabbi John Rosove – Seekers of Meaning 7/17/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Neil Friedman, co-founder of Jewish movie and TV show streaming service ChaiFlicks.com, talks about the platform’s mission, content, and impact on the Jewish community. In conversation with Rabbi Richard Address, Neil explores the evolution of Jewish film and TV, the importance of storytelling, and how ChaiFlicks serves as a cultural and educational resource.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestNeil FriedmanNeil Friedman, Founder and President of Menemsha Films, possesses an incomparable talent for unearthing the undiscovered masterpiece. Neil Friedman is the President of Menemsha Films, a U.S.-based distribution and international sales company.
Menemsha, founded by Friedman in 1998, set a record by representing five Academy Award nominees, five years in a row: Divided We Fall (Czech Republic), Son of the Bride (Argentina), Zelary (Czech Republic), Prisoner of Paradise (Canada), and Story of the Weeping Camel (Germany).
Menemsha is most recently known as the U.S. distributor of the British comedy “Dough” starring Jonathan Pryce, which grossed over $1.2 million at the U.S. box office. Prior successes include the German film “Gloomy Sunday,” which grossed $1.5 million and broke foreign-language box office records previously set by “Cinema Paradiso” (as well as records for the longest-running film release at 70 weeks), and the acclaimed documentary “The Rape of Europa,” which grossed $1.2 million at the U.S. box office.
Neil’s years of experience as Vice President of New Line Cinema, President and C.O.O. of the Pressman Company, and Co-chair of William Morris’ Independent Feature division gave him unparalleled skills and expertise.
The post Explore Jewish Cinema with Neil Friedman — Seekers of Meaning 7/10/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s encore presentation of the June 19, 2026 Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Josh Franklin discusses his new book, Where Are You? Finding Yourself in the Bible, exploring spiritual geography, the meaning of Eden, and the ongoing revelation of Torah. This episode offers deep insights into biblical themes, Hebrew language, and personal spiritual growth.
The question God asks Adam—Where are you?—still echoes across generations. This book explores the biblical world as a mirror of the human heart, charting a path through the emotional geographies of Torah: beginnings, wandering, revelation, rupture, exile, and return. Rabbi Josh Franklin weaves text, midrash, psychology, and personal story to show that places in Scripture chart the lifescape of human experience. More than a book about the Bible, this is an invitation to locate oneself—spiritually, morally, and emotionally—in the stories of Scripture.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: https://vimeo.com/1202809311?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: Podcast
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Josh FranklinRabbi Josh Franklin is the Senior Rabbi of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton, where for the past nine years he has helped revitalize and grow the Jewish community through engaging programming, transformative learning, inspiring worship, and expansive community outreach. Each summer, hundreds gather weekly for Shabbat on the Beach, an innovative and spiritually resonant prayer experience that has become a hallmark of Jewish life on the East End. Year-round, Rabbi Franklin draws people to the synagogue for learning, reflection, and meaningful communal connection.
Beyond the synagogue, Rabbi Franklin is deeply involved in the broader Hamptons community. He co-authors a bi-monthly column in Dan’s Papers titled “Hamptons Soul,” exploring questions of spirituality, ethics, and justice. His civic engagement has included service on the East Hampton Police Reform Committee and the Adolescent Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force. He also serves on the board of L’Arche Long Island, supporting adults with developmental disabilities. In recognition of his leadership, Rabbi Franklin was named to the 2021 Schneps Media Powerlist and was honored by Dan’s Papers as one of its 2022 “People of the Year: East Enders Who Made the World a Better Place.”
Rabbi Franklin was ordained at Hebrew Union College after graduating magna cum laude from Clark University, where he earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in History. He holds additional master’s degrees in Jewish Education and Hebrew Literature and was a recipient of the Daniel and Bonnie Tisch Fellowship, a selective rabbinical program focused on congregational leadership, personal theology, and contemporary religion in North America. Prior to his tenure in the Hamptons, he served on the clergy team at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, Massachusetts.
In the summer of 2026, Rabbi Franklin will relocate to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where he will begin a new role as Co-Senior Rabbi of Temple Judea. He lives with his wife, Stephanie, and their two children, Lilah and Amelia.
The post ENCORE: Finding Yourself in the Bible: Insights from Rabbi Josh Franklin – Seekers of Meaning 7/3/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Josh Franklin discusses his new book, Where Are You? Finding Yourself in the Bible, exploring spiritual geography, the meaning of Eden, and the ongoing revelation of Torah. This episode offers deep insights into biblical themes, Hebrew language, and personal spiritual growth.
The question God asks Adam—Where are you?—still echoes across generations. This book explores the biblical world as a mirror of the human heart, charting a path through the emotional geographies of Torah: beginnings, wandering, revelation, rupture, exile, and return. Rabbi Josh Franklin weaves text, midrash, psychology, and personal story to show that places in Scripture chart the lifescape of human experience. More than a book about the Bible, this is an invitation to locate oneself—spiritually, morally, and emotionally—in the stories of Scripture.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: https://vimeo.com/1202809311?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: Podcast
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Josh FranklinRabbi Josh Franklin is the Senior Rabbi of the Jewish Center of the Hamptons in East Hampton, where for the past nine years he has helped revitalize and grow the Jewish community through engaging programming, transformative learning, inspiring worship, and expansive community outreach. Each summer, hundreds gather weekly for Shabbat on the Beach, an innovative and spiritually resonant prayer experience that has become a hallmark of Jewish life on the East End. Year-round, Rabbi Franklin draws people to the synagogue for learning, reflection, and meaningful communal connection.
Beyond the synagogue, Rabbi Franklin is deeply involved in the broader Hamptons community. He co-authors a bi-monthly column in Dan’s Papers titled “Hamptons Soul,” exploring questions of spirituality, ethics, and justice. His civic engagement has included service on the East Hampton Police Reform Committee and the Adolescent Mental Health and Substance Use Task Force. He also serves on the board of L’Arche Long Island, supporting adults with developmental disabilities. In recognition of his leadership, Rabbi Franklin was named to the 2021 Schneps Media Powerlist and was honored by Dan’s Papers as one of its 2022 “People of the Year: East Enders Who Made the World a Better Place.”
Rabbi Franklin was ordained at Hebrew Union College after graduating magna cum laude from Clark University, where he earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in History. He holds additional master’s degrees in Jewish Education and Hebrew Literature and was a recipient of the Daniel and Bonnie Tisch Fellowship, a selective rabbinical program focused on congregational leadership, personal theology, and contemporary religion in North America. Prior to his tenure in the Hamptons, he served on the clergy team at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, Massachusetts.
In the summer of 2026, Rabbi Franklin will relocate to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where he will begin a new role as Co-Senior Rabbi of Temple Judea. He lives with his wife, Stephanie, and their two children, Lilah and Amelia.
The post Finding Yourself in the Bible: Insights from Rabbi Josh Franklin – Seekers of Meaning 6/19/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address interviews elder care attorney Mirit Hoffman from Israel to explore the legal, cultural, and societal aspects of aging, estate planning, and elder care in Israel compared to the United States. They discuss the importance of proactive planning, legal documents, and cultural attitudes towards aging and family responsibilities.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestMirit HoffmanMirit Hoffman is an attorney with 25 years of experience. Her specialty is estate planning and elder law, including the complexities of interfamilial and intergenerational ties, as well as the preparation of enduring powers of attorney, wills, and trusts.
Mirit believes that people work very hard to accumulate their wealth and deserve to decide who benefits from their hard-earned assets, and how. She believes they have earned the right to self-determination and the ability to age with dignity. Various legal tools can help clients accomplish these goals, including an Enduring Power of Attorney and Advance Medical Directives.
Mirit is trained and experienced in U.S. and Israeli tax law, allowing her to view complex estate matters involving dual citizenship in their entirety. This includes U.S. gift planning, alternative tax-efficient investment vehicles, and the creation of international trusts, while considering each client’s particular and complex needs.
Mirit is a member of the Global Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and lectures regularly on the importance of estate planning and enduring powers of attorney. She writes a column on the relationship between children and their adult parents on various Hebrew news sites, as well as a blog in The Times of Israel. She strongly believes in the wisdom of elders and their contribution to the community, and on her Facebook Business Page she offers a variety of complementary value-added videos featuring professionals who work with and empower senior citizens.
On a personal note, Mirit is a mother of three and is addicted to dark chocolate and running.
Mirit tries to live her life by implementing her favorite quote: “The Secret to Living is Giving” (Tony Robbins).
The post Understanding Aging and Estate Planning in Israel with Elder Law Attorney Mirit Hoffman – Seekers of Meaning 6/12/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Iris Waichler discusses her book, Role Reversal: How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging Parents, and delves into the complexities of caregiving, including planning, emotional challenges, and the impact of technology. The conversation offers practical advice for caregivers and insights into the societal and financial aspects of elder care.
About the BookDesigned to help caregivers understand how to cope with and overcome the overwhelming challenges that arise while caregiving for a loved one—especially an aging parent—Role Reversal is a comprehensive guide to navigating the enormous daily challenges faced by caregivers. In these pages, Waichler blends her personal experience caring for her beloved father with her forty years of expertise as a patient advocate and clinical social worker. The result is a book offering invaluable information on topics ranging from estate planning to grief and anger to building a support network and finding the right level of care for your elderly parent.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestIris WaichlerIris Waichler has been a well known patient advocate and licensed clinical social worker for the last 40 years. She began her career working with geriatric patients who experienced catastrophic illness and counseled them and their families about adapting to these medical problems. She helped them understand their medical condition and counseled them about how to cope with the disease and its impact on their lives.
She continued to work on a rehabilitation unit in a large Chicago teaching hospital with patients who had suffered traumatic brain injuries, strokes, cancer, amputations, burns, and neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis and parkinson’s disease. Ms. Waichler also covered the emergency room for 13 years seeing patients of all ages with a variety of medical problems. In addition she worked with kids who had been victims of child abuse.
Her long term hospital work gave her insights into how overwhelming it was for patients and families who suddenly found themselves in a hospital setting feeling helpless and alone. This prompted her to write her first book, Patient Power: How to Have a Say in Your Hospital Stay. She understood that if people knew what questions to ask and where to go for support, it would help empower them and assist them in coping with their medical conditions and the resulting life changes.
She used these insights to supervise social work students, and teach medical students, interns, residents, and nurses about patient rights, ethics, and to help them become more empathetic and effective in their day to day patient and family care.
Ms. Waichler found herself in the role of a patient when she battled infertility for many years. The feelings of loss and helplessness she personally experienced were profound. She promised herself if she was successful in having a child she would do everything she could to help other people fighting infertility.
She authored a second award winning book, Riding the Infertility Roller Coaster: A Guide to Educate and Inspire. This book won 2 best book of the year awards and 2 additional book awards. The response was so great she began doing individual and group counseling with people who had infertility. She volunteered for RESOLVE, a national infertility group, and went on to do a series of radio interviews, magazine articles, workshops, and speeches designed to inform and support men and women with infertility.
In writing her new book, Role Reversal: How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging, Ms. Waichler has come full circle. Her experience in caring for her beloved father, who died at age 97, triggered her passion in reaching out to others who suddenly find themselves in a caregiver role and are uncertain about what to do or where to go for help. In this book she shares her father’s inspiring story and her personal and professional experience in assuming the challenges that come with being a caregiver for an aging loved one. Role Reversal won 8 major book awards
Iris has been doing freelance writing for the last 20 years. The focus of her work has been on health related topics and assisting her readers gain knowledge that helps them feel less alone and empowers them in significant new ways.
Ms. Waichler lives in Chicago with her husband, Steve, her daughter, Grace, and mini Golden Doodle, Brandi.. She loves to travel whenever she can and to spend time with friends and family.
The post Understanding Elder Care Challenges: Exclusive Interview with Author Iris Waichler – Seekers of Meaning 6/5/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Randi Freeman, regional coordinator for Hadassah, This interview explores the impactful work of Hadassah in Israel and the United States, highlighting its history, medical achievements, and ongoing advocacy efforts, especially in the context of recent conflicts and societal challenges.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRandi Freeman, MSN, RNAfter spending twenty-five years in retail management, Randi decided to make a major career change and go into nursing. Randi earned a BSN from Penn State University. After spending her first five years in the ED, she then moved into management in various capacities. It was during this time, that Randi went back to school to receive her MSN in leadership from Wilmington University. Since obtaining this degree, she has moved into nursing administration. Randi was the Nurse Manager for the Geriatric Behavioral Health unit at Redeemer health, and is currently a Nurse Manager for Fairmount Behavioral Health.
Randi has been a member of Hadassah for the past 18 years, is a life member and a keeper of the gate. Hadassah is the largest women’s Zionist organization in America and raises money for two Hadassah hospitals in Israel as well as for youth at risk. Randi was Region President for the Greater Philadelphia area from 2020-2023 and is currently the Region Leader. She has 11,000 women under her guidance throughout Philadelphia and into Wilmington Delaware.
Randi is also a classical cellist, having earned her first Bachelor’s degree for Music Performance many years ago from the University of the Arts. Randi is a member of two community orchestras and free lances whenever time permits. In her free time, Randi and her spouse enjoy traveling here and abroad and stop to antique where ever they visit. Their home inside and out reflects their many collections and interests.
The post Impact of Hadassah’s Work in Israel and the U.S. with Randi Freeman, Philadelphia Region Leader – Seekers of Meaning 5/29/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, we present an encore of the May 24, 2026 episode. In this program, clinical psychologist Dr. Daniel Watter discusses the evolving perceptions of sexuality in older adults, particularly in the context of the baby boomer generation.
He emphasizes the natural changes that occur with aging, the societal pressures surrounding youth, and the importance of intimacy beyond traditional sexual norms.
The discussion also touches on the impact of medical technology on sexual health, the differences in male and female experiences, and the cultural attitudes that often stigmatize aging. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for a more open dialogue about sexuality and aging, recognizing the existential aspects of these topics.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDaniel Watter, Ed.D.Dr. Daniel N. Watter received his doctoral degree from New York University in 1985 and has also earned a post-graduate certificate in Medical Humanities from Drew University. He is licensed as both a psychologist and a marital and family therapist. In addition, he is Board Certified in Sex Therapy by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), and the American Board of Sexology (ACS), of which is also holds Fellowship status. Dr. Watter is an AASECT certified sex therapy supervisor and has been elected to Fellowship Status in the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH).
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Watter has held several faculty appointments. Currently, he is a faculty member at the University of Michigan School of Social Work’s Sexual Certification Program and the Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. He has served as an adjunct professor of Psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson, Drew, and Seton Hall Universities, a clinical instructor of OB/GYN and Women’s Health at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-New Jersey Medical School, and a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Watter is also a former member of the medical staff of the Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, and served on the Medical Center’s Ethics Committee.
Dr. Watter is a member of several professional organizations and has been elected to leadership positions in many. He has completed two terms on the New Jersey Psychological Association’s Ethics Committee where he spent two years as the Committee’s chairperson. He has also served two terms as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR), where he previously served as Membership Officer. Dr. Watter is also the former chair of the Diplomate Certification Committee for the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). From 2019-2021 he was the Chair of the AASECT Ethics Advisory Committee. Currently, he is a Past-President of SSTAR. In 2009, Dr. Watter was appointed by New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine to the State Board of Psychological Examiners. He was reappointed by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie in 2017.
A frequent lecturer at professional meetings throughout North America, Dr. Watter is the author of more than 30 professional articles and book chapters on topics such as sexual function and dysfunction, and ethics in healthcare practice. He is currently completing a textbook on Humanistic/Existential Approaches to Sex Therapy Practice
Click here to read Dr. Watter’s blog: morrispsych.com/category/dr-watters-blog/
The post ENCORE: Understanding sexuality in older adults, with psychologist Daniel Watter – Seekers of Meaning 5/22/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Sean Zevit discusses the vital connection between money, values, and faith in community, emphasizing how financial decisions reflect spiritual principles and community well-being. Drawing from the new edition of his book, Offerings of the Heart: Money, Values, and Faith in Community, he explores practical approaches to aligning resources with Jewish values, fostering transparency, and nurturing a sacred community.
Offerings of the Heart. This phrase sets the tone for the Jewish spiritual perspective that money is a tool for actualizing God’s presence in the world. Building on this core value and setting aside the financial/spiritual split with which many congregational leaders operate, Rabbi Shawn Zevit brings the depth and breadth of Jewish teachings on money and the spiritual life to all faith communities. This book provides texts and tools to help clergy, staff, and lay leaders of congregations of any faith approach financial and other resources as core means to build and maintain whole and holy lives in a communal setting. Zevit demonstrates how faith communities can create values-based approaches to developing and managing financial and human resources that are rooted in the very sacred traditions, principles, and impulses that bring us together.
Fully revised and updated, this 20th anniversary edition of a classic incorporates the insights and practices of a wide range of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform congregations in addition to Reconstructionist congregations. It also addresses the growing “free will dues” practice.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: https://vimeo.com/1192378110?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: https://media.blubrry.com/seekersofmeaning/ins.blubrry.com/seekersofmeaning/SOM20260515.mp3
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Shawn ZevitRABBI SHAWN ISRAEL ZEVIT is the lead rabbi at Congregation Mishkan Shalom, in Philadelphia, PA, committed to the integration of meaningful spiritual living, life-long learning and acts of caring and social justice. Rabbi Zevit has worked for over thirty years consulting to and supporting dozens of congregations, organizations, social justice and sustainability initiatives in the Jewish and larger world.
He is co-director with Rabbi Marcia Prager of the award-winning Davennen Leader’s Training Institute and is a spiritual director and Associate Director for the ALEPH Hashpa’ah (Spiritual Direction) program, working at the nexus of spiritual development and healing on a personal, interpersonal and communal level.
He is also a recording and performing artist with six CDs of original and traditional music and a founding member of the original “Shabbat Unplugged” musical group. An organizer for over twenty years of men’s programming and retreats, he is co-editor with Harry Brod of Brother Keepers: New Perspectives in Jewish Masculinity as well as “Offerings of the Heart: Money and Values in Faith Community” and numerous publications for congregational and organizational life.
Rabbi Shawn Israel Zevit serves as a consultant for numerous organizations in the areas of leadership, community building, money and values, creativity, and spirituality in the workplace. He has consulted with and presented to hundreds of institutions and faith communities across North America, and has taught Interpersonal and Organizational Communications at the University of Toronto and Temple University.
Rabbi Zevit is a graduate of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and also has smicha/ordination from Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi z”l and ALEPH.
You can reach Rabbi Zevit at szevit@comcast.net.
The post Money, Values, and Faith: Insights from Rabbi Shawn Zevit – Seekers of Meaning 5/15/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. David Bernstein, author of When It’s Time to Move: Assessing the Why, Exploring the How, explores the critical aspects of planning for a move later in life, including emotional, physical, financial, and medical considerations.
Dr. Bernstein shares personal experiences and practical advice on how to assess when it’s time to move and how to make the transition smoothly.
In a world that often encourages us to accumulate more, the idea of downsizing can feel like a daunting and emotional task. Whether driven by a desire for a simpler life, a financial shift, or a new beginning, the process of letting go of a lifetime of memories can be overwhelming. This is where this book comes in—not just as a guide to moving, but as a roadmap for personal transformation. It provides a comprehensive, compassionate blueprint for anyone facing the daunting task of decluttering and relocating.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: https://vimeo.com/1190122744?fl=pl&fe=sh
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: https://media.blubrry.com/seekersofmeaning/ins.blubrry.com/seekersofmeaning/SOM20260508.mp3
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. David BernsteinDavid Bernstein, M.D. is a highly respected physician who is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. His 40 years of experience have provided him with opportunities to observe, empathize and guide thousands of adults and generations of families as they mature.
His compassion and ability to see the souls of his patients have compelled him to share his stories in his book: I’ve Got Some Good News and Some Bad News You’re OLD: Tales of a Geriatrician What to Expect in Your 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and Beyond.
Because of Dr. Bernstein’s keen interest in the safety of his patients, he was prompted to write Senior Driving Dilemmas, Lifesaving Strategies as a guide for seniors and their families to consider and assess the feasibility of a senior adult continuing to drive.
Dr. Bernstein’s observation and extensive research prompted him to write his book, The Power of 5: The Ultimate Formula For Longevity & Remaining Youthful which explores a formula to diminish the kinds of diseases many of today’s adults face. Divided into five categories – Sweets, Sweat, Stress, Sleep, and Sex – the Power of 5 details the ways individuals can take control of their own lasting youthfulness and vigor. Dr. Bernstein collaborated with his wife Melissa and published The Power of 5 Journal – a companion to document progress while following the Power of 5 formula.
His next book, Geriatrics Handbook, was co-authored with Venkit Iyer, MD. It covers a wide range of topics, including common medical problems in older adults, preventive care, and end-of-life issues.
Dr. Bernstein’s NEWEST BOOK, When It’s Time to Move: Assessing the Why, Exploring the How, is an ideal resource for when it’s time to move for whatever your reason. Because whether it’s a simpler life, a financial shift, or a new beginning, letting go of a lifetime of memories can be overwhelming. This guide to moving is a compassionate blueprint for anyone facing the daunting task of decluttering and relocating.
The post Navigating Life Changes: When It’s Time to Move, with Dr. David Bernstein – Seekers of Meaning 5/8/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Dan Ross, director of alumni engagement at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, discusses the current crisis in rabbinic recruitment, exploring the changing face of the rabbinate, and sharing insights from his research on what draws people to become rabbis. Rabbi Ross suggests practical solutions, the importance of mentorship, and ways to inspire the next generation of Jewish leaders.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: https://vimeo.com/1188320909?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Daniel S. RossRabbi Dan Ross is honored to serve his alma mater as the Director of Alumni Engagement. Prior to his return to Hebrew Union College, Rabbi Ross served as a rabbi at Central Synagogue and the Senior Jewish Educator at the Joseph Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale.
Currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Ross was ordained in 2018 from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York where he was a Wexner Graduate Fellow. During his studies, he received awards for his achievements in Hebrew, liturgy, homiletics, and ecumenical studies. While in rabbinical school, he served for three years as rabbinic intern at Columbia/Barnard Hillel and for two years as student rabbi at Temple Beth Ha-Sholom in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He also completed a summer chaplaincy internship at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.
Originally from Merion Station, Pennsylvania, Rabbi Ross graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in history and science, technology, and society. After graduating, he served for two years as a Teach For America corps member in Prince George’s County, Maryland, teaching 7th grade social studies while earning a Master of Arts in Teaching from American University. Following the Corps, Rabbi Ross worked for two years at the Advisory Board Company, a health-care research and consulting firm based in DC.
Rabbi Ross is married to Rabbi Jade Sank Ross ’18, who is an Associate Rabbi at the Community Synagogue in Port Washington, Long Island. They live in Forest Hills, Queens with their daughters Adina and Bella and their dog Rashi.
The post The Changing Face of the Rabbinate: A Discussion with Rabbi Dan Ross – Seekers of Meaning 5/1/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, clinical psychologist Dr. Daniel Watter discusses the evolving perceptions of sexuality in older adults, particularly in the context of the baby boomer generation.
He emphasizes the natural changes that occur with aging, the societal pressures surrounding youth, and the importance of intimacy beyond traditional sexual norms.
The discussion also touches on the impact of medical technology on sexual health, the differences in male and female experiences, and the cultural attitudes that often stigmatize aging. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for a more open dialogue about sexuality and aging, recognizing the existential aspects of these topics.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDaniel Watter, Ed.D.Dr. Daniel N. Watter received his doctoral degree from New York University in 1985 and has also earned a post-graduate certificate in Medical Humanities from Drew University. He is licensed as both a psychologist and a marital and family therapist. In addition, he is Board Certified in Sex Therapy by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT), and the American Board of Sexology (ACS), of which is also holds Fellowship status. Dr. Watter is an AASECT certified sex therapy supervisor and has been elected to Fellowship Status in the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH).
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Watter has held several faculty appointments. Currently, he is a faculty member at the University of Michigan School of Social Work’s Sexual Certification Program and the Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. He has served as an adjunct professor of Psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson, Drew, and Seton Hall Universities, a clinical instructor of OB/GYN and Women’s Health at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-New Jersey Medical School, and a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Watter is also a former member of the medical staff of the Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, and served on the Medical Center’s Ethics Committee.
Dr. Watter is a member of several professional organizations and has been elected to leadership positions in many. He has completed two terms on the New Jersey Psychological Association’s Ethics Committee where he spent two years as the Committee’s chairperson. He has also served two terms as the Secretary/Treasurer of the Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR), where he previously served as Membership Officer. Dr. Watter is also the former chair of the Diplomate Certification Committee for the American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT). From 2019-2021 he was the Chair of the AASECT Ethics Advisory Committee. Currently, he is a Past-President of SSTAR. In 2009, Dr. Watter was appointed by New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine to the State Board of Psychological Examiners. He was reappointed by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie in 2017.
A frequent lecturer at professional meetings throughout North America, Dr. Watter is the author of more than 30 professional articles and book chapters on topics such as sexual function and dysfunction, and ethics in healthcare practice. He is currently completing a textbook on Humanistic/Existential Approaches to Sex Therapy Practice
Click here to read Dr. Watter’s blog: morrispsych.com/category/dr-watters-blog/
The post Understanding sexuality in older adults, with psychologist Daniel Watter – Seekers of Meaning 4/24/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Phil Cohen discusses his podcast series, “The Rabbi Podcast,” featuring interviews with Israeli rabbis, exploring the state of religious life in Israel, the impact of recent events like October 7th, and the future of progressive Judaism in the region.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestPhoto by Ivan CutlerRabbi Phil CohenPhil M. Cohen is a rabbi, writer, and podcaster interested in the ways Jewish ideas and stories continue to shape contemporary life.
He is the creator and host of The Rabbi Podcast, a series of conversations with Israeli rabbis about their lives, paths to the rabbinate, and the questions they wrestle with in their work and in tIsraeli society. The podcast offers listeners a window into the diverse worlds of Jewish religious life in Israel.
Phil is also the author of the novel Nick Bones Underground and numerous published short stories. Whether interviewing rabbis or writing fiction, he approaches his subjects with curiosity, humor, and a seriousness about the questions that animate Jewish life.
The post Rabbi Phil Cohen’s ‘Rabbi Podcast’: Insights from Israeli Rabbis – Jewish Sacred Aging 4/17/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Irit Chapnick, founder and director of the grief counseling website, DiscoveryThroughGrief.com, shares her journey through grief following her son’s suicide, exploring creative and movement-based healing methods, the importance of rituals, and the power of love and community in the grieving process.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
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- Amazon Music About the GuestIrit ChapnickIrit Chapnick is the creator of the website discoverythroughgrief.com. Located in San Antonio, Texas, Irit has dedicated her work in grief coaching to her son, Jonathan Sacks, who took his life on 12/28/2020 during the Covid Epidemic.
She has studied with Dr. Edith Eger and Chris Duncan and received a coaching certificate in Magnetic Mind Conscious Education. She is currently studying with David Kessler in the Grief Education Certificate program.
Although military families and survivors of suicide was the direction her work first took, Irit has broadened her approach to include loss of a marriage or relationship; loss of a beloved pet; or loss of the dream job you. She is supported on her website by a variety of coaches and creators and believes that movement and creation are essential to coming to terms with grief!
In her latest role, Irit has become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Bexar County, Texas.
The post Healing Through Grief: Irit Chapnick’s Journey – Seekers of Meaning 4/10/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this rebroadcast episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, originally aired May 31, 2024, Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, discusses her new book, From Time to Time, Journeys in the Jewish Calendar.
Time is fundamental to the human experience, and in Judaism it is even more—time is sanctified. Understanding the Jewish calendar is thus essential for fully comprehending Judaism. In From Time to Time, Rabbi Dalia Marx, PhD, presents a fascinating exploration of the treasures of the Jewish year. The book artfully blends traditional and contemporary perspectives on each Hebrew month and its holidays. Rabbi Marx’s insights are paired with striking illustrations; each month also features a diverse selection of poetry, prayers, and songs. Taking a distinctively Israeli, feminist, and progressive approach, From Time to Time is a comprehensive, indispensable companion you will want to return to each season.
Download a study guide from the CCAR Press website.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D.Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., is the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, and teaches in various academic institutions in Israel and Europe.
Marx, a tenth generation Jerusalemite, earned her doctorate at the Hebrew University and her rabbinic ordination at HUC-JIR in Jerusalem and Cincinnati in 2002. She is involved in various research projects and is active in promoting liberal Judaism in Israel. Marx writes for academic and popular journals and publications.
Marx is the lead editor of the Israeli Reform siddur, Tfillat HaAdam (2020). Her book From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar (Yeditos Sfarim 2018), was translated to several languages, and is available in English from the CCAR Press.
She is the author of When I Sleep and When I Wake: On Prayers between Dusk and Dawn (Yediot Sfarim, 2010, in Hebrew), A Feminist Commentary of the Babylonian Talmud (Mohr Siebeck, 2013, in English), About Time: Journeys in the Jewish-Israeli Calendar (Yediot Sfarim, 2018, in Hebrew) and the co-editor of a few books. See Marx’s website.
Marx lives in Jerusalem with her husband, Roly Zyblersztein, Ph.D. They have three children.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST: Seekers of Meaning 5/31/2024: Rabbi Dalia Marx, author of “From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
In this encore episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, originally broadcast April 11, 2025, Rabbi Richard Address engages with Rabbi Amy Schwartzman, senior rabbi of Temple Rodef Shalom, Falls Church, VA, and Rabbi Matthew Soffer, senior rabbi of Judea Reform Congregation, Durham, NC, to explore the significance of Passover in the context of current events.
They discuss how this year’s Seder will resonate deeply with themes of oppression, resistance, and hope, reflecting on personal and communal challenges. The conversation highlights the evolving role of progressive Judaism and the importance of faith and community in navigating difficult times, ultimately calling for action and inspiration as they approach the holiday.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsSnake RiverRabbi Amy SchwartzmanRabbi Schwartzman was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She received her Masters of Hebrew Literature in 1988, and ordination in 1990, from the Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. Following ordination, she joined Temple Rodef Shalom as our Temple’s first Assistant Rabbi and became the synagogue’s first Associate Rabbi. In June of 1998, following the retirement of Rabbi Lazlo Berkowits z”l, Rabbi Schwartzman was installed as Senior Rabbi of Rodef Shalom, giving Temple Rodef Shalom the distinction of being one of the largest congregations headed by a woman rabbi.
Rabbi Schwartzman is involved in the leadership of many Jewish organizations and has served on the executive board of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) and co-coordinated the Women’s Rabbinic Network of Reform Judaism. She has also worked with many community organizations including the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, many national and local housing organizations, and has been active in community AIDS projects.
Rabbi Matthew SofferRabbi Matthew V. Soffer is the senior rabbi of Judea Reform Temple in Durham, South Carolina.
He lives in Durham with his wife and three children.
Rabbi Soffer was ordained as a graduate of the New York Campus of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. He served at Temple Israel of Boston since 2009, beginning as a rabbinic intern and finishing as Senior Associate Rabbi. As a Student Rabbi, he served at Main Line Reform Temple and Congregation Beth Elohim, both in New York. His work has included portfolios in Social Jusice and in outreach to and engagement of Jews in their 20s and 30s.
Among his honors are the Religious Action Center’s 50 Faces of Justice, Newsweek/Daily Beast’s 10 Rabbi’s to Watch, and NFTY President’s Award. His publications include “Global Swarming: Can We Become Worthy of Creation,” CCAR Press, 2017; several commentaries and essays on My Jewish Learning, on Reform Judaism.org, and in The Times of Israel. His work also includes music composition and performance, comedy, and community organizing.
The topic of his Rabbinic Thesis, “Listening for Laughter: Sensing Humor in the Babylonian Talmud,” is a wonderful window on his character and style.
You can follow him on Twitter @MattSoffer and listen to his podcast, Pulpit on the Commons.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST: Passover Reflections from two rabbis on Seekers of Meaning 4/11/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Sam Simon, who shares his journey with Alzheimer’s disease through his one-man play, “Dementia Man.” The conversation explores the challenges of living with dementia, the importance of finding meaning in life despite the diagnosis, and the resources available for support. Sam emphasizes the need to change the narrative around dementia and advocates for a positive outlook on aging and cognitive disorders.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions. If you do not see a player directly below this paragraph, you can still watch the video by clicking on this link: LINK
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player. If you do not see a player below, you can still listen to the podcast by clicking on this link: LINK
- Apple Podcasts
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- Amazon Music About the GuestSamuel A. Simon Samuel A. (Sam) Simon started his career in Washington, DC as a lawyer for Ralph Nader’s first advocacy group. He then spent 25 years as head of a public affairs firm. In that work, he was often in the news, with appearances on Face The Nation, Phil Donahue Show, Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, and many more. Sam calls his playwriting and theatre work is 4th Age. His first play, The Actual Dance, Love’s Ultimate Journey Through Breast Cancer, has toured from 2013 to the present. In 2021 The Actual Dance was turned into an award-winning biography. Sam lives in Mclean, Virginia, with his wife Susan. They have two children and four grandchildren.
Sam and his wife have been active in their Jewish Community. The are members of Temple Rodef Shalom, Falls Church for Virginia for more than 50 years. Each has served as President of the Congregation. Sam has been active nationally as a member of the Board of Advisors for Hebrew Union College for nearly 30 years, an continues to serve in an emeritus status. He is also on the Board of Visitors for the Debbie Friedman School of Music and previously Chaired the Advisory Committee to the Debbie Friedman Schools of Sacred Music.
They have two children and four grandchildren.
The post Navigating Alzheimer’s: Insights from Sam Simon’s ‘Dementia Man’ – Seekers of Meaning 3/20/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address interviews Rabbi Jon Cutler about his new project, the New Jew Podcast. They discuss the changing landscape of Judaism, the importance of welcoming non-Jews into the community, and the challenges faced by the Jewish community today, including rising antisemitism and the need for innovative approaches to engagement and education. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling in understanding the Jewish experience and the potential for converts to enrich the community.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jon CutlerRabbi Jon Cutler, a native of Philadelphia, earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from Temple University in Religious Studies. He earned a Master of Hebrew Letters and received his ordination as a Rabbi from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote, PA. He then earned his Doctor of Ministry (Counseling) from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York.
On September 1st, 2015, Rabbi Cutler become the rabbi of Beth Israel Congregation of Chester County and continues to serve the members of Beth Israel.
Rabbi Cutler’s extensive pulpit experience includes serving four congregations in his civilian career – Congregation Bet Tikva, Flemington, NJ (1993-1999); Congregation Tiferes B’nai Israel, Warrington, PA (1999-2007); Darkaynu, Warrington, PA (2009-2015); and an interim rabbi at Congregation Beth Hatikva (JRF) in Summit, NJ (2013-2014).
Rabbi Cutler retired (2017) as a Captain in the U.S. Navy Reserves after serving 32 years. He served on active duty for five years – Philippines, Camp Lejeune, NC and Japan.
As a reservist, his last assignment was Deputy Chaplain for the US Marine Corps (2015-2017) at the Pentagon in Washington, DC. He served as the Force Chaplain for Naval Sea Systems Command and as Deputy Force Chaplain, Commander Navy Installations Command in Washington, DC (2013-2015) and Deputy Command Chaplain for the US 6th Fleet, U.S. Forces Europe and Africa (2012-2013).
Rabbi Cutler served as a hospice chaplain for Abramson Center for Jewish Life. He is an adjunct professor teaching Judaic Studies at Gratz College in Melrose Park, PA, Philosophy and Religion at Philadelphia University in Philadelphia, PA, and Counseling Psychology (graduate program) at Holy Family University in Philadelphia, PA.
He is married to Thierry Steenberghs and has a son (Thomas), daughter in law (Crystal), a granddaughter (Ariel), and a step-son (Cedric).
The post How Welcoming Converts to Judaism Enriches Community – Seekers of Meaning 3/6/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Carol Steinberg about her book, Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly, which addresses the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease through an intergenerational lens. They discuss the personal impact of Alzheimer’s on families, the importance of early diagnosis, and the need for support for caregivers. The conversation highlights the significance of maintaining connections and engaging in meaningful activities with loved ones affected by the disease.
About the book“In the face of this devastating disease, we are all looking for that ‘moment’—a twinkle of joy, laughter, connection, or remembrance,” author Carol Steinberg writes in the book’s introduction. Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly offers that — and so much more.
Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly is a sensitive and true-to-life children’s book to help families meet the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia with understanding and respect. A heartfelt story with age-appropriate language and beautiful watercolor illustrations explains the brain disorder, and it is uniquely complemented by a collection of intergenerational activities designed to strengthen connections between children and loved ones experiencing memory loss and other symptoms.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestCarol SteinbergCarol Steinberg is an accomplished writer and editor and a former award-winning journalist who contributed regularly to The New York Times, Success magazine, Long Island Jewish World, and other publications. She left journalism mid-career to serve for 15 years as an executive at local and national nonprofit organizations focused on Alzheimer’s disease—a way of giving back after her father died as a result of the disease. Currently, she writes the biweekly newsletter for Voices of Alzheimer’s.
Based on her family’s experience and her knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease, Carol is the author of a new children’s book—”Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly.” The book, which is available on Amazon, uniquely features a heartfelt story about Alzheimer’s plus a collection of intergenerational activities. It has been recognized by AlzAuthors as a valuable resource for caregivers and by Ella’s Way for demonstrating the power of kindness.
The post Come Grandpa Meow: Engaging Young Minds with Alzheimer’s Awareness – Seekers of Meaning 2/27/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages in a profound discussion with Rabbis Doug Kohn and Leah Cohen-Tenenbaum, co-authors of the book Striving to be Human: Jewish Perspectives on 21st Century Challenges.
The conversation delves into the motivations behind the book, which emerged from a serendipitous meeting at a CCAR conference. The authors explore the pressing issues of the 21st century, emphasizing the need for a reflective pause in a rapidly changing world, drawing on Jewish wisdom to navigate contemporary challenges. They discuss the importance of understanding what it means to be human in an age dominated by technology and the complexities of modern life, including the existential crises that arise from our relationship with technology and the quest for belonging.
The discussion also touches on the significance of the essays in the book, which provide a framework for processing the challenges of modern existence. The authors highlight the necessity of striving for humanity amidst the overwhelming influx of information and the ethical dilemmas posed by advancements in artificial intelligence and medical technology. Ultimately, the episode serves as a call to action for listeners to engage with these themes and reflect on their own humanity in the face of contemporary challenges.
About the bookIn his clarion call for ethical behavior, Rabbi Hillel tells us, “In a place where there is no humanity, strive to be human.” But what exactly does it mean to be human, especially in an age of rapid transformation? Striving to Be Human: Jewish Perspectives on Twenty-First-Century Challenges confronts this question with boldness, hope, and a foundation of Jewish wisdom. The volume begins with “Challenges from Within Us,” addressing such topics as moral justice, belonging, queer theology, and good and evil. In part two, “Challenges from Beyond Us,” the authors delve into artificial intelligence, robotics, reproductive technologies, and the animal-human relationship. The result is a profound conversation about Jewish values and human dignity in our evolving landscape.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Leah Cohen TenenbaumRabbi Leah Cohen Tenenbaum, DMin, BCC-PCHAC (HUC-JIR 2000), serves as the inpatient palliative care chaplain and as a member of the Ethics Committee at Yale New Haven Hospital. She is a faculty member of FASPE (Fellowships at Auschwitz for the Study of Professional Ethics) and has served on the CCAR Board of Trustees, the CCAR National Ethics Taskforce, and currently the CCAR Press Council. She has written chapters for The Sacred Struggle: Jewish Responses to Trauma (CCAR Press, 2025) and Fragile Dialogue: New Voices of Liberal Zionism (CCAR Press, 2018) and is the coeditor with Rabbi Douglas Kohn of Striving to Be Human: Jewish Perspectives on Twenty First-Century Challenges (CCAR Press, 2025). She frequently teaches and presents on spirituality, serious illness, and medical ethics.
Rabbi Douglas KohnRabbi Douglas Kohn serves Temple Beth Jacob in Newburgh, New York, having previously served congregations in Buffalo, Baltimore, Chicago, and Southern California, and is happily busy in all aspects of congregational and community endeavors. In addition to coediting Striving to Be Human (CCAR Press, 2025) with Rabbi Leah Cohen Tenenbaum, he is the editor of two other volumes, Life, Faith, and Cancer: Jewish Journeys Through Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery (URJ Press, 2008) and Broken Fragments: Jewish Experiences of Alzheimer’s Disease Through Diagnosis, Adaptation, and Moving On (URJ Press, 2012), and has written and spoken widely on the themes of illness, medical ethics, and being human. Rabbi Kohn has served on numerous CCAR, URJ, and communal commissions, committees, and boards, while still savoring time to read, write, and paint, as well as exercise, cook, and travel with his wife, Cindy, and their children and grandchildren.
The post Striving to Be Human: Reflections on Technology and Ethics: Rabbis Douglas Kohn and Leah Cohen Tenenbaum – Seekers of Meaning 2/20/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
In this episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes back Dr. Robert Singer, a prominent cardiologist, to discuss heart health, particularly relevant as February is Heart Health Month.
They delve into the importance of cholesterol management, specifically the role of statins and emerging markers like lipoprotein(a) and apoprotein B, which are gaining traction in Europe but are not yet standard in the U.S. Dr. Singer emphasizes the need for awareness regarding these tests and the impact of lifestyle choices on cardiovascular health, including diet and exercise.
The conversation also touches on the significance of stress and genetics in heart health, the importance of regular check-ups, and the disparities in healthcare access.
Dr. Singer shares insights on the latest advancements in cardiac procedures and the evolving landscape of heart health monitoring through technology. The episode concludes with practical advice for maintaining cardiovascular health, underscoring the timeless wisdom of balanced eating and regular physical activity.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Robert Singer, MD, FACCDr. Robert Singer is a clinical cardiologist with Trinity Mid-Atlantic Cardiology in Philadelphia.
Dr. Singer received his MD in 1987 from S.U.N.Y. Health Science Center at Brooklyn. He is board-certified in Nuclear Cardiology, cardiovascular diseases, and internal medicine.
He held a fellowship in cardiology at Hahneman University Hospital in Philadelphia, and a residency and internship in internal medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Bronx Municipal Hospital Center, Bronx, NY.
He also studied at Tel Aviv University-Sackler School of Medicine. He received a BA in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Dr. Singer is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology.
The post Heart Health Insights with Dr. Robert Singer – Seekers of Meaning 2/13/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes Rabbi Michael Zedek to discuss his new book, People Are Like: Stories for Young Readers and Readers Who Wish to Stay Young.
The conversation explores the joy of storytelling, particularly in the context of teaching and connecting with younger generations. Rabbi Zedek shares insights on the importance of stories in conveying moral lessons and fostering empathy, drawing from his experiences as a rabbi and educator. He emphasizes that stories can be a powerful tool for understanding complex themes such as happiness, bullying, and the significance of human relationships.
Throughout the discussion, Rabbi Zedek reflects on the creative process behind his book, the whimsical illustrations by Isabel Tejada, and how each story serves as a standalone lesson. The episode highlights the potential of storytelling to bridge generational gaps and promote meaningful conversations about life’s challenges. As they delve into specific stories from the book, both rabbis underscore the importance of compassion and connection in a world that often feels isolating, especially for the elderly and youth alike.
About the book“People Are Like …” redwood trees? Dogs? Porcupines, even? Rabbi Michael Zedek shares how in a refreshing, humorous style that connects with young readers and their families. The Brooklyn-born master storyteller has been a featured speaker globally, including TEDx. His natural wit and generational wisdom will engage children and adults in this slim volume full of memorable life lessons. The whimsical illustrations add magical notes to complement the content. “People Are Like …” will inspire meaningful conversation to remind us that we still have room and time to grow no matter our age. Michael’s collection of tales plants seeds for character-building and self-discovery that teach us to reflect on what we can learn from the mundane moments too often overlooked.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Michael ZedekBrooklyn-born Michael Zedek is rabbi emeritus of both B’nai Jehudah (Kansas City) and Emanuel Congregation (Chicago). He also served as the chief executive officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati (JFC); during his tenure, the Federation received national awards for innovative fundraising and programming. A dedicated community activist, scholar, and teacher Rabbi Zedek has received numerous awards including a Fulbright-Hays Grant. He was also honored by the National Conference of Christian and Jews. He is the founder and co-host of weekly radio show “Religion on the Line,” and a regular presenter at Rancho La Puerta, the oldest and most renowned spirituality spa center in North America.
The post Connecting Generations Through Stories: Rabbi Michael Zedek’s Approach – Seekers of Meaning 2/6/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with Rabbi Dr. Simcha Raphael to explore the rich tapestry of Jewish beliefs surrounding the afterlife, particularly through the lens of Yiddish folklore. Reb Simcha’s newest book is Spirits, Ghosts, & Dybbuks: Afterlife Journeys in Yiddish Lore
They discuss the significance of spirits, ghosts, and dybbuks, the role of rituals in mourning, and the reclamation of lost traditions in modern Judaism. The conversation delves into the concept of Gehenna as a process of purification and reflects on cultural narratives that shape Jewish understandings of life, death, and the spiritual journey beyond.
About the bookA richly researched and deeply spiritual work, Spirits, Ghosts, and Dybbuks: Afterlife Journeys in Yiddish Lore delves into the arcane realms of Jewish afterlife beliefs as vibrantly expressed through the imaginative worlds of Yiddish literature. In deftly demonstrating how the writings of I.L. Peretz, Isaac Bashevis Singer, and others synthesized classical Jewish eschatology with the emerging sociopolitical thought of early modernity, Simcha Paull Raphael explores the enduring legacy of Jewish speculation on death and the afterlife.
Drawing on decades of experience as a death educator, grief counselor, and rabbinic chaplain, Raphael weaves scholarly insight with spiritual depth to expertly guide readers on a literary journey into the yenne velt, ‘ the ever-present ‘other world’ beyond the veil. Regardless of one’s background or belief, this fascinating work invites readers to reflect on enduring spiritual questions about death, the soul, and the possibility of life beyond the grave.
Originally published as a chapter in the groundbreaking Jewish Views of the Afterlife, this expanded and revised volume offers newly updated material, highlighting the rich intersection of Yiddish literature and Jewish afterlife tradition.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Simcha RaphaelReb Simcha Paull Raphael, Ph.D.SIMCHA RAPHAEL, Ph.D., is the Founding Director of the DA’AT INSTITUTE. He has worked as a death awareness educator, bereavement counselor and hospice chaplain for over twenty-five years. Ordained as a Rabbinic Pastor by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, he received a doctorate in Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and has written extensively on the topics of death, bereavement and the afterlife
The post Exploring Jewish Afterlife Beliefs Through Yiddish Folklore – Reb Simcha Raphael on Seekers of Meaning, 1/30/2026 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the profound journey of caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, as shared by Rabbi Deborah Hachen. She reflects on her experiences with her husband Peter, discussing the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving, the impact of COVID-19, and the importance of community support. The dialogue also delves into themes of faith, spirituality, and the healing power of poetry in processing grief and loss.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Debra HachenRabbi Debra Hachen (HUC-JIR ’80) is Rabbi Emerita of Congregation B’nai Shalom in Massachusetts and served two other congregations before retiring to California in 2017. The daughter and great granddaughter of Reform rabbis, she was among the first women rabbis in the Reform movement. During her active rabbinate she was known for heartfelt worship services and teachings that wove together Jewish texts and modern life experiences. She served on many committees within the Reform movement and continues to be active in the Central Conference of American Rabbis and the Women’s Rabbinic Network. Her essay and poetry on caregiving for a spouse with dementia were published by the Central Conference of American Rabbis, one in The Sacred Struggle (2025) and the other in The Reform Jewish Quarterly, Summer 2025. She loves reading science fiction, playing bridge, travel, and making her six young grandchildren laugh.
The post Encore 1/9/2026: Healing Through Poetry: Caregiving Experiences in Alzheimer’s — Seekers of Meaning appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with Rabbis Laura Geller and Beth Lieberman about their book, Moments That Matter, which explores the transitions of midlife and beyond.
They discuss the definition of elderhood, the importance of rituals in navigating life’s changes, and the concept of “Renewment” as a positive alternative to retirement.
The conversation also addresses the loneliness crisis among older adults and emphasizes the significance of relationships and community. The episode concludes with reflections on embracing life’s finitude and finding spiritual meaning in the aging process.
About the bookMoments That Matter: Marking Transitions in Midlife and Beyond offers a fresh perspective on life’s later chapters, transforming them into opportunities for personal growth, meaning, and renewal. With warmth and wisdom, Rabbi Laura Geller and Rabbi Beth Lieberman explore the unique challenges and joys of midlife and beyond, from launching children to launching oneself anew, navigating retirement, downsizing and moving, facing illness and caregiving, and embracing love at any age. The chapters weave Jewish wisdom with practical rituals, interspersed with personal stories and ways to adapt each ceremony for a communal setting. Moments That Matter empowers readers to embrace these milestones with creativity and intention, offering tools to craft personalized and deeply moving rituals that honor the complexity of this rich stage of life.
More information at CCAR Press website.
More information at Amazon.com.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Laura GellerRabbi Laura Geller, Rabbi Emerita of Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills, was the third woman in the Reform Movement to become a rabbi and the first to be called from a national search to become the Senior Rabbi of a major metropolitan synagogue.
Named one of Newsweek’s 50 Most Influential Rabbis in America, and by PBS’ Next Avenue as a 2017 Influencer in Aging, she was a cofounder of ChaiVillageLA and is the chair of the Synagogue Village Network. She served on the Corporation of Brown University from where she graduated in 1971, and on the board of the Jewish Women’s Archive.
Currently she is on the board of CoGenerate.org (formerly Encore.org) and the ActiveAgingNetwork.org (formerly B3:the Jewish Boomer Platform.)
She was featured in the PBS documentary “Jewish Americans”, is the author of numerous articles in books and journals, and she was on the editorial board of The Torah: A Women’s Commentary.
Her book, Getting Good at Getting Older, co-authored with her husband Richard Siegel (z’l), was named a National Jewish Book Award Finalist in the category of Contemporary Jewish Life and Practice. Her new book is called Moments That Matter:Marking Transitions in Midlife and Beyond (CCARPress, 2025).
She is the mother of Joshua and Elana Goldstein, the stepmother of Andy and Ruth Siegel, the grateful mother in law of Janelle Goldstein, Zach Rausnitz, and Will Swanson and the very proud Savta of Avery, Levi, Phoebe, Alice and Nell.
Rabbi Beth LiebermanRabbi Beth Lieberman serves on the faculty of Hebrew Union College, Jack H. Skirball Campus, Los Angeles. She was involved with the development of IJS’s Wise Aging program, served as manager of the Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills Next Stage Initiative, and was co-founder of Or Ami Village in Calabasas, California.
The post Embracing Elderhood: Insights from ‘Moments That Matter’ – Rabbis Laura Geller and Beth Lieberman – Seekers of Meaning 12/19/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the profound journey of caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, as shared by Rabbi Deborah Hachen. She reflects on her experiences with her husband Peter, discussing the emotional and practical challenges of caregiving, the impact of COVID-19, and the importance of community support. The dialogue also delves into themes of faith, spirituality, and the healing power of poetry in processing grief and loss.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Debra HachenRabbi Debra Hachen (HUC-JIR ’80) is Rabbi Emerita of Congregation B’nai Shalom in Massachusetts and served two other congregations before retiring to California in 2017. The daughter and great granddaughter of Reform rabbis, she was among the first women rabbis in the Reform movement. During her active rabbinate she was known for heartfelt worship services and teachings that wove together Jewish texts and modern life experiences. She served on many committees within the Reform movement and continues to be active in the Central Conference of American Rabbis and the Women’s Rabbinic Network. Her essay and poetry on caregiving for a spouse with dementia were published by the Central Conference of American Rabbis, one in The Sacred Struggle (2025) and the other in The Reform Jewish Quarterly, Summer 2025. She loves reading science fiction, playing bridge, travel, and making her six young grandchildren laugh.
The post Healing Through Poetry: Caregiving Experiences in Alzheimer’s — Seekers of Meaning 12/5/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address engages in a profound conversation with Jayne Jacova Feld about the psycho-spiritual aspects of grief, particularly following the tragic loss of her son, Ravi. Jayne shares her journey of transforming grief into love, the significance of water in her healing process, and the creation of her own belief system, ‘mermaidism.’ The discussion delves into the importance of community, the power of writing, and the exploration of spirituality outside traditional frameworks, offering insights into navigating grief and finding personal meaning.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJayne Jacova FeldJayne Jacova Feld is a longtime South Jersey journalist, former managing editor of The Jewish Community Voice, and former executive editor of SJ Magazine. She now freelances full-time and writes Jayne Says, a Substack exploring grief, motherhood, healing, and spiritual presence. Jayne also co-leads women’s spiritual journeys, including an upcoming self-love and ritual-based retreat to Peru.
The post Transforming Grief: Insights from Jayne Jacova Feld – Seekers of Meaning 11/28/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with authors Aron Hirt-Manheimer and Marty Yura about their book, Sons of Survivors: Making Peace with Inherited Trauma.
The conversation delves into the complexities of inherited trauma from Holocaust survivors, the authors’ personal journeys in writing the book, and the impact of their family histories on their identities. They discuss the conspiracy of silence surrounding trauma, the therapeutic nature of writing, and the importance of sharing these stories with future generations. The episode concludes with reflections on the potential for history to repeat itself and the enduring hope for humanity.
About the BookThe authors of this dual memoir are second-generation Holocaust survivors. They did not live through the trauma of the Holocaust, they inherited it. Whether survivor-parents revealed what they endured or erected barriers of silence, the horrors they experienced permeated the lives of their children. Aron Hirt-Manheimer and Marty Yura grew up in the close-knit community of Yiddish-speaking refugees in America. After meeting in Los Angeles as high school students, the two became fast friends with much in common including the fact that they were both conceived in the same displaced persons camp in US-occupied Germany. This memoir traces their colorful growing-up adventures through fast-paced alternating passages. Though the Holocaust formed the backdrop of their lives, they didn’t talk much about it—until, as older adults, they embraced the imperative to bear witness. They set out to discover everything they could about what happened to their parents and other relatives in Poland during World War II. For Aron, the most powerful revelations were contained in a nearly forgotten memoir written by his uncle fifty years earlier in Argentina. Marty’s breakthrough came after participating in a Zen Peacemakers immersion retreat on the killing fields of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Navigating through this haunted terrain together, the friends realized that the love they inherited from their parents transcends the trauma. Their joint memoir attests to a legacy of love against hate.
Seekers of Meaning Now on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsAron Hirt-ManheimerAron Hirt-Manheimer was born in the Feldafing D.P. Camp, U.S. Zone, Occupied Germany. His family immigrated to the U.S. when he was three, residing in Cleveland, Ohio before moving to Los Angeles in 1960. He received a BA in psychology from UCLA and an MA and honorary doctorate in Jewish education from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. He founded Davka magazine (1970), a West Coast Jewish quarterly credited by the Encyclopedia Judaica its role in “fostering a Jewish cultural renaissance.”
Aron served as editor of Reform Judaism magazine (Union for Reform Judaism) from 1976 to 2014 and as URJ editor-at-large until 2021. He co-edited with Irving Abrahamson Against Silence: The Voice and Vision of Elie Wiesel (Holocaust Library, 1985.) Wiesel described Aron as “a writer possessed of a rare blend of integrity, persuasiveness, and good literary sense.”
Aron co-authored Jagendorf’s Foundry: Memoir of the Romanian Holocaust, 1941-1944 (HarperCollins,1991), described by Publishers Weekly as an “extraordinary, riveting, heartrending story of a genuine hero…” (translations published in German and Romanian). He is also coauthor with Arthur Hertzberg of Jews: The Essence and Character of a People (HarperCollins, 1998, published in nine languages: Hebrew, Italian, Czech, Slovak, Spanish, French, Polish, Dutch, and German).
Aron lives with his wife of 52 years, Judy, in Ridgefield, Connecticut.
Marty YuraMarty Yura was conceived in the Feldafing D.P. camp and born after his family arrived in New York. He grew up in the Bronx before relocating at age sixteen with his family to Los Angeles. He graduated from UCLA with a BA in psychology (1970), immigrated to Israel, and was inducted into the Israel Defense Forces. He became an officer and served as a field psychologist in an infantry brigade at the time of the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Upon completion of his military service, Marty returned to the U.S. and completed his MA in psychology at California State University – Los Angeles (1976).
Marty has worked as a management consultant, founded and headed a computer-based learning company, and supervised more than 50 registered representatives in the financial services industry. In 2009, he and his wife co-founded Vista Yoga, where he teaches yoga and meditation. He also teaches yoga at a program for veterans with PTSD at Emory Healthcare, one of four such programs in the U.S. Marty lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife of forty years, Marti.
The post Sons of Survivors: Exploring Legacy and Healing from Holocaust Trauma – Seekers of Meaning 11/21/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with Dr. Alan Morinis, founder of The Mussar Institute about his book, The Shabbat Effect, which explores the transformative power of Shabbat and the practice of Mussar. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, the influence of Rabbi Perr, and the eight practices of Mussar that can enhance one’s spiritual life. The conversation emphasizes the need for spiritual growth in a modern context, addressing themes of enoughness, rest, and the significance of Shabbat in contemporary life.
About the bookWhat if one day of rest could transform your entire life?
One of the most important biblical mandates, so significant that it numbers among the Ten Commandments, is the directive to observe a weekly day of rest. The Shabbat Effect illuminates how the practice of a day set aside for rest brings about a deep, lasting, and pervasive transformation of character, not just on that seventh day but every day. Drawing on venerable Jewish sources as well as the experiences of contemporary practitioners, this user-friendly and accessible guide explores the eight essential traits that reflect the true meaning of Shabbat.
Rooted in the 1,100-year-old Jewish tradition of Mussar as well as the experiences of contemporary practitioners, this accessible guide offers a radical and moving exploration of how the practice of Shabbat enhances and refines core traits of character. Readers will find that it contributes immeasurably to their enjoyment of life, as well as helping them fulfill their highest human potential.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Alan MorinisALAN MORINIS received his doctorate from Oxford University where he went on a Rhodes Scholarship. He is one of the leading lights in the revival of the Jewish spiritual tradition of Mussar and is the author of Climbing Jacob’s Ladder (2002), Everyday Holiness (2007) and With Heart in Mind (2014). He is the founder of The Mussar Institute and a student of Rabbi Yechiel Yitzchok Perr, zt”l.
The post The Transformative Power of Shabbat in Modern Life, with Mussar Institute founder Alan Morinis: Seekers of Meaning 11/14/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address discussed the longevity revolution and its implications for Jewish life and spirituality on this week’s video podcast from the International Institute for Secular Humanistic Judaism with host Cantor Jonathan Friedman.
You can watch the conversation in the player below.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with Dr. Herbert Levine, author of Blessed Are You, Wondrous Universe, a prayer book exploring the intersection of Judaism, science, and spirituality.
They discuss the concept of seekers in the Jewish tradition, the limitations of current religious practices, and the importance of community and music in enhancing spiritual experiences.
Dr. Levine shares his vision for a non-theistic prayer book that bridges the gap between intellectual honesty and emotional connection, aiming to create a more inclusive and meaningful Jewish practice.
About the bookBlessed Are You, Wondrous Universe: A Siddur for Seekers combines religion’s stance of wonder and gratitude with humanism’s commitment to facts and scientific method. It embraces a commitment to individual and collective responsibility for our lives drawing from both worlds.
In a traditional siddur, God is the ultimate actor whose intervention we seek, whether through blessing, redeeming, healing, or forgiving us. In this siddur, we praise the universe, the earth, and Jewish tradition. With respect to moral choices, we address ourselves: Humans are the agents who need to hear our own prayer.
Available in two editions: Comprehensive with complete Hebrew and English text and Compact with abridged and transliterated Hebrew. Both editions feature sheet music for original musical music commissioned for a selection of the prayers in this volume.
Advance praise for the book“Herb Levine has fashioned a sparkling collection of prayers for a thinking, feeling modern person who wants to express gratitude for the wonder of existence.”
—Daniel Matt, translator of the Zohar, author of God and the Big Bang, The Essential Kabbalah, and Becoming Elijah
“A wonderful resource — inspirational, comforting, uplifting and insightful.”
—Rabbi Adam Chalom, co-author, Contemporary Humanistic Judaism: Beliefs, Values, Practices
“An exercise in holy audacity.”
—Dr. Shaul Magid, author, The Necessity of Exile
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Herbert LevineHerbert J. Levine, poet and scholar, has published two books of bi-lingual poems in Hebrew and English: Words for Blessing the World (2017) and An Added Soul: Poems for a New Old Religion (2020). He has published scholarly books on Yeats and the Psalms and articles on Whitman and George Eliot. His work-in-progress is Blessed Are You, Awesome Cosmos! Siddur for a New Paradigm.
Published WorksAn Added Soul: Poems for a New Old Religion (Ben Yehuda Press, 2020)
Words for Blessing the World: Poems in Hebrew and English (Ben Yehuda Press, 2017)
The post A Humanistic Approach to Jewish Prayer: Insights from Dr. Herbert Levine – Seekers of Meaning 10/31/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Rabbi Josh Feigelson, the president and CEO of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. They discuss the demographics of the Institute, the importance of mindfulness and community, and how the organization is adapting to serve both older adults and younger generations. The conversation also touches on the need for inclusive spaces for diverse communities, the role of spiritual direction, and how current events impact the community’s spiritual practices.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Joshua FeigelsonJosh was appointed Executive Director of The Institute for Jewish Spirituality in January 2020 and became President & CEO in April 2022.
He received ordination from Yeshivat Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School in 2005 and served for six years as the Hillel Rabbi at Northwestern University, where he also earned a PhD in Religious Studies.
In 2011, Josh helped found and served as Executive Director of Ask Big Questions, an initiative of Hillel International, which won the inaugural Lippman-Kanfer Prize for Applied Jewish Wisdom. Josh has also been a consultant and Senior Fellow at The iCenter for Israel Education.
Most recently he served as Dean of Students at the University of Chicago Divinity School. Josh is a Wexner Graduate Fellow and was the founding co-chair of the Wexner Fellowship Alumni Committee.
He is the author of Eternal Questions: Reflections, Conversations, and Jewish Mindfulness Practices for the Weekly Torah Portion (Ben Yehuda Press, 2022). Josh lives with his wife Natalie and their three sons in Skokie, IL.
The post Inclusive Spaces in Spirituality: A Conversation with Rabbi Josh Feigelson – Seekers of Meaning 10/24/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Rabbi Susan Elkodsi about her new book, Midrash Hazak, which features Torah commentaries from contributors aged 65 and older. The book will be published in November. You can place advance orders at the publisher’s website.
They discuss the themes of wisdom, resilience, and connection in aging, the importance of forgiveness, and the acceptance of one’s identity as they age. The conversation highlights the need for older adults to find meaning in their lives through Jewish teachings and community engagement.
About the bookAdvance Praise“The Torah states: ‘Honor the elderly person’ (Leviticus 19:32). The Talmud explains: the elderly person is one who has acquired wisdom (Kiddushin 32A).
“This book is an inspired bringing together of wise seniors to distill wisdom from the Torah’s weekly portion – with an eye to guiding us how to better live the latter years of our lives. The book is written by over 70s for over 70s but is filled with nuggets of wisdom for old and young alike.”
—Rabbi Irving “Yitz” Greenberg, author, The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism
“Midrash Hazak brings a beautiful and important group of voices to the study of Torah. While many of these contributors are well known to us from their writing and work, the context of this project makes their words new and important in a different way. Bringing the perspective of those over 65 to the study of the weekly parashah leads to the sharing of wisdom about aging, stages of life, priorities, and the definition of success and happiness, all worked through the lens of Torah. This book has a lot to teach people of all ages.
“Those over 65 will see themselves in these textual analyses, finding camaraderie and connection. Those earlier in life will learn from the careful thinking and deep wisdom of those who have experienced more. As usual, Torah becomes the center around which we all orbit at all times of life.”
—Dr. Ora Horn Prouser, CEO and Academic Dean, Academy for Jewish Religion
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Susan ElkodsiRabbi Susan Elkodsi received rabbinic ordination from the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR) in May of 2015 and has been spiritual leader of the Malverne Jewish Center since August of 2015. Additionally, she provides pastoral and rabbinic services to local rehab and assisted living facilities. Her writing has appeared on JewishSacredAging.com, and she has presented workshops for Limmud, NY, for AJR and in the community, on aging, ethical wills and spiritual legacies. She currently provides ritual and spiritual care at area assisted living facilities and is a past president of the Long Island Board of Rabbis.
She is passionate about helping baby boomers and older adults to find meaning and purpose in their lives within the context of Jewish tradition and teachings, and as part of a Jewish community, in however they see themselves.
In 2019 Rabbi Elkodsi received a Rabbinic Certificate in Gerontology and Palliative Care from the Wurzweiler School of Social work at Yeshiva University, and takes advantage of their continuing education programs relating to aging and end-of-life issues.
A knitter and weaver who loves to spin her own yarn, her essay about Judaism and knitting, along with a pattern based on Sefer Yetzirah, were published in The Knit Vibe by Vickie Howell in 2019. She and her husband David have two adult children.
The post Wisdom in Aging: Highlights from Midrash Hazak, new book edited by Rabbi Susan Elkodsi — Seekers of Meaning 10/17/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with Rabbi Leah Berkowitz, senior Jewish educator at the Hillel at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, and author of children’s books.
They discuss the process of writing for children, the importance of midrash, and the role of grandparents in children’s literature.
Rabbi Berkowitz shares insights on how her books convey hidden messages for both children and adults, the challenges of writing for different age groups, and the significance of storytelling in Jewish education. The conversation also touches on interfaith families and the portrayal of grandparents in literature, as well as navigating themes of loss and grief in children’s books.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Leah BerkowitzLeah Rachel Berkowitz is a rabbi, teacher, and author based in Philadelphia, PA. She currently serves as the Senior Jewish Educator for Hillel at Temple University. Leah also teaches for Gratz College, the Union for Reform Judaism, the Jewish Learning Collaborative, and Laasok.org. Each summer, she serves on the faculty at the URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy. She is a Jewish Studio Project Fellow, a Rukin Rabbinic Fellow at 18 Doors (formerly Interfaith Family), and a Past President of the Women’s Rabbinic Network. She has contributed to The Torah: A Women’s Commentary, The Sacred Calling: Four Decades of Women in the Rabbinate, and several of the CCAR Press prayer books and anthologies. She is the author of three children’s books and the co-author of the middle-grade midrash collection Maybe It Happened This Way: Bible Stories Reimagined (with Erica Wovsaniker). You can find her on social media @rabbilrb or online at leahrachelberkowitz.com
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with Rabbi Mark Novak, founder of MOSH, a unique online spiritual community that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the evolution of MOSH, the challenges and successes of creating a virtual community, and the importance of pastoral care in a digital age. Rabbi Novak shares his personal journey from theater to rabbinical leadership, emphasizing the role of storytelling and community in spiritual growth. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of American Judaism and the ongoing adaptation of religious practices.
Takeaways* MOSH stands for Minyan Oneg Shabbat, a spiritual community founded by Rabbi Mark Novak. * The community transitioned online during COVID-19, leading to significant growth and engagement. * Creating community involves giving people the opportunity to share their personal stories. * Rabbi Novak emphasizes the importance of being seen and heard in a virtual space. * Pastoral care is an integral part of the MOSH community, providing support to members in need. * Rabbi Novak has dedicated himself fully to MOSH, leaving behind other professional commitments. * The community operates on a freewill offering model, allowing for inclusivity without membership fees. * Rabbi Novak’s journey to becoming a rabbi was influenced by his background in theater and music. * The future of American Judaism may involve more online and hybrid models of community engagement. * Rabbi Novak seeks to mentor younger leaders to continue the work of MOSH and adapt to future needs.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestReb Mark NovakRabbi Mark Novak received ordination as a Rabbi and Mashpia Ruchani from AOP, and is the founding Rabbi of MInyan Oneg Shabbat, Washington, DC’s Jewish Renewal community. (MOSH) In addition to his work as a mashpia, he is a hazzan, musician, composer, storyteller (Jewishstorytelling.com), and playwright. Mark experiences the creative process as a conduit in his relationship with the Divine. R’ Mark has been described as a ba’al simcha, a master of joy, and he brings that G!d given gift to all his work. Together with his wife, storyteller/juggler Rene Brachfeld, R’Mark has served as Scholar/Artist in Residence at over 140 synagogues throughout the U/S and Canada.His project, A Year of Stories, is dedicated to the memory of Reb Zalman and can be found atwww.rebmarko.com. R’ Mark leads all ALEPH chaverim in number of websites!
The post Creating Virtual Communities: Rabbi Novak’s Zoom-agogue – Seekers of Meaning 10/3/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages Rabbi Jeff Salkin in a profound discussion about the essence of prayer, the structure of his new book Inviting God In: A Guide to Jewish Prayer, and the evolving nature of Jewish worship. They explore the significance of gratitude in prayer, the challenges faced by modern worshippers, and the need for a deeper understanding of Jewish liturgy. The conversation also touches on the importance of Jewish education, the survival of the Jewish narrative, and the role of technology in worship. Salkin emphasizes the necessity of teaching young people the language of prayer and the importance of creating a meaningful connection to their Jewish identity.
About the BookInviting God In: A Guide to Jewish Prayer is an engaging and insightful commentary on the Shabbat evening and morning services by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin, the author of Putting God on the Guest List. Designed for students of all ages, from bet mitzvah to adulthood, the book’s relatable tone and discussion questions meaningfully engage readers in the worship service they are leading or attending. Rabbi Salkin breaks down each prayer and ritual, helping learners connect to the service with fresh insight and knowledge. With a blend of humor and depth, Inviting God In shows how the ancient words of prayer still speak to the challenges and joys of contemporary life.
Purchase at CCAR Press
Purchase at Amazon.com
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jeffrey SalkinRabbi Jeffrey Salkin is one of American Judaism’s most prolific rabbis — described as “courageous,” “always relevant,” and “one of American Judaism’s true public intellectuals.”
Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin is the co-founder and co-director of Wisdom Without Walls: an online salon for Jewish ideas. The author of twelve books, his most recent book is Inviting God In: A Guide to Jewish Prayer (CCAR Press).
His column, “Martini Judaism: for those who want to be shaken and stirred,” published by the Religion News Service, has won several Wilbur awards for best religion column of the year. “Martini Judaism” also appears as a podcast. He delivered the keynote on spirituality at the Chautauqua Institution, and has participated in interreligious dialogue with Christian and Muslim religious leaders.
His essays have appeared in the Washington Post, Commentary, the Wall Street Journal, Tablet, Forward, and JTA. He has appeared on CNN and the BBC. He has contributed to scholarly volumes and encyclopedias. His eleven books have inspired vigorous conversations on such subjects as Jewish identity and culture, Israel, and gender, and he has written three Torah commentaries.
His new book is Tikkun Ha’Am: Repairing Our People – Israel and the Crisis of Liberal Judaism. Rabbi David Wolpe of Los Angeles has said of the book: “Tikkun Ha’am” proves once again that Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin is among the wisest observers of our society and our souls — a Rabbi who writes with humor, depth and clarity.” He is currently writing a book for the Reform movement — a commentary for teens on Shabbat liturgy.
Rabbi Salkin lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, and devotes his time to writing, biking, his friends and family, and consuming vast quantities of coffee.
The post Inviting God In: Insights from Rabbi Salkin – Seekers of Meaning 9/26/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address engages with Rabbis Lindsey Danziger and Ben David to discuss their book, The Sacred Struggle: Jewish Responses to Trauma.
They explore the concept of trauma within the Jewish tradition, emphasizing the sacredness of personal stories and the importance of community support. The conversation delves into the role of liturgy in coping with trauma, the distinction between personal and communal trauma, and the impact of modern isolation. The rabbis offer insights and advice for those struggling with trauma, highlighting the importance of connection and resilience.
About the BookHow do we find the strength to continue when dealing with traumatic experiences? The Sacred Struggle: Jewish Responses to Trauma is a powerful anthology of personal stories, offering a deeply moving exploration of how Jewish wisdom can help us navigate life’s most difficult moments. With stories including enduring the loss of a child, losing a loved one to suicide, surviving sexual assault, responding to a diagnosis of cancer, experiencing antisemitism and racism, and many more, this volume is rooted in vulnerability and resilience, revealing the profound ways Judaism offers tools for reflection, connection, and healing. Edited by Rabbi Lindsey Danziger and Rabbi Benjamin David, with a foreword by Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker, The Sacred Struggle is a companion for anyone seeking comfort and hope in the face of trauma.
In this book you will find the genuine voices of life as it is lived-in pain, with struggle, and offering the wisdom to endure and prevail. A work of great range, it is a bracing book, an important book, and a gift to all of us.
–Rabbi David Wolpe, author of Making Loss Matter: Creating Meaning in Difficult Times
Who among us has not been touched by trauma? Violence? Natural disaster? Illness? Marginalization? Family dysfunction? In this challenging and thought provoking
book, rabbis reflect on the Torah of their lives, as well as the Torah of tradition, to give us insight into the ways we are all affected by trauma and the
many different paths to healing.
–Rabbi Laura Geller, coauthor of Moments That Matter: Marking Transitions in Midlife and Beyond
Trauma may shatter us. It doesn’t have to end us. … There is a way forward. I pray that this volume can be a source of strength for you.
– From the foreword by Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker, PhD, Temple Emanuel, Winston-Salem, NC
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Lindsey DanzigerRabbi Lindsey Danziger is Director of Campaigns at the Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism. She guides synagogues and clergy across the country in their work to organize and mobilize for justice. She is also an adjunct professor at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, where she teaches Community Organizing. She was ordained there in 2017 and also received a master’s degree in Religious Education. She is a member of the Nashville Jewish Federation Board of Directors, the Akiva School, and the Aspen Institute Collective on Racial Justice and Religion – a national advisory council of faith leaders creating anti-racist religious spaces. Rabbi Danziger resides in Nashville, TN, with her husband, Rabbi Michael Danziger, and their three children – Ben, Aviva, and Noa. She loves serving on faculty at URJ Jacobs Camp in Utica, MS.
Rabbi Benjamin P. DavidRabbi Benjamin P. David was born in Philadelphia, PA and raised in Cherry Hill, NJ. He is the son of Rabbi Jerome and Peggy David. He attended Cherry Hill High School East and Muhlenberg College, where he majored in English Literature. In 1999, he graduated Magna Cum Laude and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. In 2004, he was ordained by the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. While in rabbinic school, he served numerous congregations, including Kol Hanishama of Jerusalem, Temple Beth Am of Monessen, PA and Temple Shaaray Tefila of Manhattan. He also served as an intern at the Jewish Guild for the Blind and the Makor Steinhardt Center. He received numerous awards in the field of Talmud and Hebrew Literature and was the co-founder of Davar Aher, a student review. From 2005-2012, he served as assistant and associate rabbi at Temple Sinai of Roslyn, working closely with youth and teens, overseeing the Hebrew High School program, officiating at lifecycle events, teaching broadly, and helping to further develop the congregation’s social action, community organizing, and interfaith programs. Prior to joining KI, Rabbi David served as senior Rabbi of congregation Adath Emanu-El in Mount Laurel, New Jersey from 2012-2022.
Since arriving at KI in July of 2022, Rabbi David has introduced Talmud to the congregation through interactive classes and sessions. He works closely with our youth and teen communities, leading the Confirmation and post-Confirmation programs in ways that are upbeat, fun and meaningful. He has led trips to Israel, Washington, DC and the south. He works closely with our religious practices, social justice and Israel committees and loves leading Shabbat morning Torah study. He is active in Interfaith Philadelphia and part of the leadership of RAC-PA, the Pennsylvania arm of the Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism. He is a certified chaplain for SCI Phoenix Prison (formerly Graterford). In addition to supporting our congregants in all phases of life, he loves working with the KI professional staff.
A competitive distance runner, he has completed 20 marathons including the Boston Marathon twice and the NYC Marathon four times. He is a co-founder of the Running Rabbis, a social justice initiative that works with clergy worldwide to run and walk in the name of worthy causes.
Rabbi David is a past President of the Tri-County Board of Rabbis, serving New Jersey’s Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties.
He is married to Lisa David, the Director of Camp Harlam. They also met at Camp Harlam, where they both spent time as campers, counselors, and supervisors. They have three children: Noa, Elijah, and Samuel.
The post Navigating Trauma Through Jewish Wisdom: Seekers of Meaning 9/19/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the intersection of Mussar, a Jewish ethical tradition, and recovery from addiction. Rabbi Harvey Winokur and Hannah L discuss their book Mussar in Recovery, which aligns the principles of Mussar with the 12-step recovery program.
They delve into the importance of community, the concept of a higher power, and the process of making amends, particularly in the context of the Jewish high holidays. The discussion emphasizes that recovery is a personal journey and that Mussar provides tools for self-awareness and balance in character traits.
Mussar in Recovery is a transformative guide that weaves together timeless wisdom of Jewish ethical teachings with the Twelve Steps, bringing a dynamic Jewish voice to the recovery journey. At its core is Mussar – a centuries-old Jewish tradition that provides practical tools to help individuals create meaningful lives by cultivating the inner traits that align with becoming our best selves.
In this creative and inspiring work, Hannah L. and her teacher overlay Mussar’s gentle wisdom and practices on the 12 Steps. Making this Jewish Sage wisdom accessible, Mussar In Recovery offers clear, actionable practices – ranging from self-reflective exercises to guided daily reminders – that are a blueprint for breaking free from the cycle of addiction and other expressions of our “stinking thinking”. Complemented by her personal experience and spiritual insights, Hannah gives readers a path to realizing their potential for beauty and greatness.
Perfect for any seeker on a path toward recovery and personal growth, Mussar in Recovery offers a compassionate roadmap to healing and wholeness. Embrace the opportunity to blend spiritual depth with practical change and find renewed serenity and joy as you embark on a journey that honors both your heritage and your future.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsHannah L.Hannah L. is a student and facilitator of the Mussar tradition who draws on 12+ years of learning and living the Twelve Steps and Mussar to reveal the transformative power of these synergistic paths for personal growth. A scientist, inventor, innovator, and explorer, she blends curiosity and creativity with heartfelt faith. As a mother and grandmother, friend and mentor, Hannah lives with purpose — guided by the twin blueprints of Mussar and recovery. Her journey is one of seeking and finding serenity, joy, and daily renewal —becoming her best self in a world full of the unpredictable. Through courageous storytelling rooted in personal experience and spiritual insight, Hannah offers readers practical wisdom, an actionable toolkit, and a guided pathway to their own healing and wholeness.
Rabbi Harvey J. WinokurRabbi Harvey J. Winokur was ordained at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati). A native of New York, he had the privilege of serving two congregations in Atlanta, Georgia before founding Temple Kehillat Chaim in Roswell, Georgia in 1982. After leading TKC for thirty-six years, he retired and became Emeritus in 2018. Recently, Rabbi Winokur became the spiritual leader for the small Jewish community of Temple B’nai Israel in Albany, Georgia. He is a certified Spiritual Director and a Trainer-Facilitator for The Mussar Institute.
He was introduced to mussar during his spiritual direction training. But it wasn’t until the Mussar Institute and the Central Conference of American Rabbis offered the opportunity to become mussar facilitators that he immersed himself in the study of mussar. He currently facilitates several vaads and has created curriculum material relating middot (soul traits) to the Haftaraot and to Jewish liturgy.
Rabbi Winokur currently resides in Roswell, Georgia
The post Mussar and Recovery: A Path to Healing – Seekers of Meaning 9/12/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Steve Lubetkin, producer of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast and a veteran technology journalist.
In a world where technology evolves at a breakneck pace, understanding its impact on different generations is crucial. The conversation delved into how technology affects multi-generational cohorts, particularly older adults, and the challenges and opportunities it presents.
Lubetkin highlighted the diverse needs and comfort levels with technology across different age groups.
Editor’s Note: In the fall issue of Senior Style Magazine published by the Jewish Community Voice of Southern New Jersey, Steve will be writing about common questions seniors have about technology. If you have a question about technology that Steve can explore in his article, email him at steve@lubetk.in.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestSteve LubetkinSteve Lubetkin is the producer of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast and manages the website JewishSacredAging.com for Rabbi Richard Address.
Since 2005 he has been the managing partner of The Lubetkin Media Companies LLC, one of the first professional podcast production companies. It is the umbrella organization for several digital content production divisions: Professional Podcasts, which produces audio and video content for distribution as podcasts over the Internet; StateBroadcastNews.com, a contract news-gathering organization producing broadcast quality news coverage at the state and local level; and Steve Lubetkin Photography, which produces corporate photojournalism, event and lifestyle photography and videography.
Steve has been the computer columnist for the Jewish Community Voice of Southern New Jersey since 1996.
Steve is a seasoned technology futurist. He has included an email address on his business card since 1988.
As a music reviewer, he was one of the first print journalists to use a portable computer to cover a Grateful Dead rock concert — in 1977.
Steve is co-author, with Toronto-based podcasting pioneer Donna Papacosta, of the book, The Business of Podcasting: How to Take Your Podcasting Passion from the Personal to the Professional.
He and his wife Judy live in Cherry Hill. They have two daughters and sons-in-law, and one brilliant grandson.
The post Impact of technology on older adults, with technology journalist and podcaster Steve Lubetkin – Seekers of Meaning 9/5/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Joy Zelikovsky founder and director of NourishTheHeartCounseling.com discusses the complexities of eating disorders, body image, and their impact on individuals and families. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural influences, the role of social media, and the need for a broader definition of health that goes beyond weight.
The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by different demographics, including men and older adults, in relation to eating disorders. Dr. Zelikovsky provides insights into recognizing warning signs and offers advice for parents and grandparents concerned about their loved ones’ eating behaviors.
Dr. Zelikovsky is sponsoring a conference this fall for Jewish eating disorder professionals. More information is available at https://www.jewisheatingdisorderprofessionalsconference.org/
Takeaways* Eating disorders can affect individuals of all ages, not just adolescents. * Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping body image and eating behaviors. * Social media perpetuates unrealistic body standards and can impact mental health. * Eating disorders are often linked with other mental health issues like anxiety and depression. * There is a strong genetic predisposition to eating disorders, but environmental factors also contribute. * Men are often underdiagnosed for eating disorders due to societal perceptions. * The concept of health should not be solely based on weight; other factors are crucial. * Cultural traditions, especially those involving food, can complicate recovery from eating disorders. * Parents should be aware of behavioral changes in their children that may indicate an eating disorder. * Support and open communication are vital for families dealing with eating disorders.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJoy Zelikovsky, Psy.D., M.A., M.Phil.Ed., M.S.EdJoy Zelikovsky is a clinical psychologist and National Health Service Psychologist in New Haven, CT. She is the founder and of Nourish The Heart Counseling in New Haven, Connecticut.
She received her Doctorate in Psychology and a Master’s of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the Florida School of Professional Psychology. She has also completed a Master’s of Philosophy in Education and a Master’s of Science in Education in Professional Counseling and Psychological Services, respectively, from the University of Pennsylvania. Joy completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology with a minor in Education from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Joy is also credentialed as a National Health Service Psychologist.
Most recently, Joy was the Supervising Psychologist at the University of Southern Mississippi, providing therapeutic services in the college counseling center, and had worked in several other college counseling centers during her training and education. Joy also has experience working in private practice settings and community mental health. As the Director of Eating Disorder Services at Turnbridge Addiction Treatment, Joy uses evidence-based practices and treatments to help both men and women who are struggling with addiction and eating disorder concerns. Joy also continues to teach at the graduate level to help prepare the next generation of mental health clinicians.
Joy has a passion for working with eating disorders and has decided to make this site as a way of helping people access information and resources to help themselves, family, and friends in their recovery. This site offers information on eating disorders and resources to help people along their way. This site is also a place to have conversations and get questions answered as people work in their recovery. Learn more about her work at Psychology Today
For more information regarding Joy’s background and training see her curriculum vitae here: Master CV
The post Cultural Influences on Eating Disorders: A Discussion with Dr. Joy Zelikovsky – Seekers of Meaning 8/29/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar (upper right corner), assistant rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami, Cherry Hill, NJ, and Pam Austin (lower right) and Joey Lieberson (lower left), two participants in a program she organized called “Gesher.” The intergenerational initiative at Congregation Kol Ami aimed at fostering relationships between younger and older members of the community.
Rabbi Milan-Polisar discusses the program’s origins, its impact on Joey and Pamela, and the lessons learned about the importance of personal relationships and community building.
The discussion highlights the positive experiences of both elders and students, emphasizing the hope and connection that emerged from their interactions. Future plans for the program include expanding its reach and continuing to foster intergenerational connections within the Jewish community.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Ariel Milan-PolisarRabbi Milan-Polisar is the Assistant Rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami in Cherry Hill, NJ. Originally from Irvington, NY, Rabbi Milan-Polisar attended Brandeis University in Waltham, MA, where she studied Sociology and Near Eastern and Judaic Studies. She was ordained as a rabbi in May 2021 from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York, NY. Before joining the Kol Ami community in 2023, Rabbi Milan-Polisar served as a Campus Rabbi and Rabbinic Innovation Fellow at Penn Hillel in Philadelphia, PA. In her free time, you can find her reading contemporary fiction, trying homemade pasta recipes, or fostering dogs. Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar lives in Cherry Hill, NJ with her husband Jason and their dog Lucy.
Pam AustinI was raised at a Conservative synagogue in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the eldest of four children. I became a Confirmand and attended Hebrew High through 12th grade. I received a BS degree in English, and a Masters of Education degree in Remedial Education at Miami University (OH.) After 40 years of teaching at high schools and community colleges, I retired in 2016. The last 35 years of my career, I was the Reading Specialist at Voorhees Middle School. There I started an intergenerational club, called Adopt-a-Grandparent, and I took students to bimonthly visits at local nursing and assisted living facilities. The students showed such caring and empathy to the residents and each year, many shared special relationships with one or two seniors. The club is ongoing.
Joey LiebersonJoey Lieberson is a student in the Hebrew High School program at Congregation Kol Ami in Cherry Hill, NJ, and a rising senior at Cherry Hill High School East.
The post Gesher: A Successful Intergenerational Program – Seekers of Meaning 8/22/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address interviews Lisa Pahl, a licensed clinical social worker and creator of the Death Deck, a tool designed to facilitate conversations about death, dying, and end-of-life preferences.
The discussion explores the importance of normalizing these conversations, the adaptability of the Death Deck for various audiences, including solo agers and younger generations, and the cultural attitudes towards death in society. Lisa shares insights on how humor can help ease the discomfort surrounding death discussions and the role of the Death Deck in addressing death anxiety.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLisa PahlLisa Pahl is co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, tools that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 17 years of experience within hospice and emergency medicine, Pahl helps people cope with illness, dying, and grief. With a passionate belief that peace at the end begins with meaningful conversations over time, she engages people in talking about and preparing for this important stage of life.
The post Lisa Pahl and The Death Deck: Facilitating End-of-Life Dialogues – Seekers of Meaning 8/15/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Arielle Berger, a geriatrician and rabbinic student, exploring the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and aging.
Dr. Berger shares her journey from medicine to the rabbinate, emphasizing the importance of spirituality in patient care and the need for a shift in how society views aging. They discuss the ethical implications of medical aid in dying and the role of Jewish values in healthcare, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate approach to aging and healthcare.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Arielle BergerDr. Arielle Berger is a geriatrician and assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto. She has a clinical practice at Toronto Grace Health Center in downtown Toronto and is an experienced educator, teaching communication and professionalism skills to doctors in training and in practice. She is currently pursuing rabbinic ordination through the Shalom Hartman Institute, hoping to address both physical and spiritual needs of the aging Jewish community in Toronto.
The post Becoming a Rabbi: A Journey of Spirituality and Medicine, with Dr. Arielle Berger – SOM 8/8/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Paul Kipnes discusses his book, The Secret Life of the Mourner, which explores his personal journey through grief after losing his father. The conversation delves into the therapeutic power of poetry, the role of a rabbi in mourning, the significance of rituals like sitting Shiva, and the importance of community support during times of loss. Rabbi Kipnes reflects on the complexities of parent-child relationships, forgiveness, and the necessity of creating new rituals to help individuals process their grief. His conversation with Rabbi Address emphasizes the need for permission to mourn and the liberation that comes from articulating one’s feelings.
The Secret Life of the Mourner: A Poetic Journey Through a Year of Grief is a heartfelt exploration of loss, love, and the complex emotions that define mourning. After the unexpected loss of his father, Paul Kipnes embarked on a deeply personal journey through grief, uncovering what he calls the “secret life of the mourner.” This collection of poignant poetry captures the raw, often hidden layers of emotion that mourners experience — sadness, relief, guilt, reflection, and moments of profound connection. Drawing from his own experience as a mourner and years as a clergyperson guiding others through the valley of the shadow of death, Kipnes invites readers into an intimate conversation with grief. Written with unflinching honesty and poetic simplicity, these verses transcend theology and intellect, speaking directly to the heart. Poetry, with its ability to convey the inexpressible, becomes a vessel for the emotions that often defy articulation. The Secret Life of the Mourner is a companion for those who grieve, a resource for loved ones seeking understanding, and a tool for caregivers, clergy, and ritual leaders. Whether read in quiet reflection or shared during moments of mourning, these poems illuminate the universal truths of loss and the resilience of the human spirit. Ultimately, this book is a gift—a raw, real, and deeply moving tribute to the enduring bond between the living and the lost, reminding us that even in the shadow of grief, love endures and memories become blessings.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Paul KipnesRabbi Paul Kipnes is a visionary spiritual leader, three-time author, speaker, and innovator, dedicated to guiding individuals and communities toward deeper faith, healing, and transformation. As the longtime spiritual leader of Congregation Or Ami, he has pioneered groundbreaking approaches to spiritual engagement, earning 14 national awards for excellence in family education, interfaith outreach, disability inclusion, social justice, and use of technology.
A passionate educator, Rabbi Paul has guided over 56 rabbis and educators, shaping the next generation of faith leadership. His commitment to fostering meaningful spiritual living extends to his writing, including Jewish Spiritual Parenting, co-authored with his wife, Michelle November, and The Secret Life of the Mourner: A Poetic Journey Through a Year of Grief, a deeply personal and spiritual exploration of loss and healing.
National leaders, clergy, and people everywhere turn to Rabbi Paul and his poetic, alliterative writing and prayers to find the words to address the rapidly transforming personal and societal realities. He co-edited a national journal on New Visions for Jewish Community and his writing has been featured in JTA, The Forward, the Journal of Reform Judaism, Jewish Journal, Daily News, and eJewishPhilanthropy.com. He is co-founder of Midrashic Monologues, which gives voice through the silence to our Biblical ancestors.
Beyond the pulpit, Rabbi Paul is a dynamic thinker and creative spirit. A lifelong lover of science fiction and meditation, he even appeared in an episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His passions also include blues and jazz, writing poetry, as well as hiking through national parks, where he finds spiritual inspiration in the grandeur of nature.
With a reputation for community transformation and teen engagement, Rabbi Paul integrates ancient traditions with modern insights, fostering inclusive, dynamic spiritual experiences. Whether through writing, teaching, or community leadership, he empowers individuals to connect more deeply with their spirituality, embrace sacred moments, and build vibrant, compassionate communities.
He was ordained rabbi from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, earning its Master of Arts in Jewish Education degree along the way. His BA in Comparative Religion from Trinity College (Hartford, CT) deepened his appreciation for the universal spiritual search for truth, connection, and compassion. He is married to Michelle November and together they have three children, two daughters-in-law, and a shared love of travel, good food, and good friends
The post The Healing Power of Poetry in Mourning: Insights from Rabbi Paul Kipnes – SOM 8/1/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Lance Sussman discusses his latest book, the third in a memoir trilogy, titled Portrait of a Rabbi-Historian: How Did We Get Here? The conversation explores the evolution of American Judaism, the role of a Rabbi Historian, and the historical context of Jewish rights in America. Rabbi Sussman discusses key figures like Isaac Leeser and the impact of social justice on Reform Judaism, as well as the significance of Albert Einstein’s 1934 speech at Knesset Israel.
What does it mean to be both a rabbi and a historian in modern America?
In Portrait of a Rabbi-Historian: How Did We Get Here?, Rabbi Lance J. Sussman, Ph.D., presents a compelling anthology of essays exploring the evolution of American Jewish history, Reform Judaism, and religious leadership through the eyes of a scholar deeply rooted in both pulpit and academia.
Spanning over forty years of research and reflection, this collection brings together 36 essays that examine topics such as American Jewish history before and after the Civil War, the role of figures like Isaac Leeser, the impact of the 1883 Trefa Banquet, and the transformation of synagogue architecture. Readers will discover fresh insights into the development of Jewish communities, the intersection of Jewish and American identities, and the challenges faced by Reform Jewish leadership.
Sussman’s work is deeply informed by Jewish historiography, original source analysis, and personal experience. His dual career as both rabbi and professor offers a rare perspective that blends academic rigor with lived spiritual engagement.
Perfect for readers interested in Jewish community studies, synagogue life, interfaith relations, and American religious history, this book offers not just historical facts, but a meaningful narrative of cultural continuity, faith, and change.
Whether you are a student of Jewish history, a member of the clergy, or a curious lay reader, this anthology invites you to explore how the American Jewish story has unfolded—and where it might go next.
Start your journey into American Jewish history today.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Lance J. Sussman, Ph.D.Since beginning his service as the eighth Senior Rabbi of KI in July 2001, Rabbi Sussman has had a transformative impact on the congregation and the greater Philadelphia region, as well as nationally, through his scholarship, leadership, and diverse community and educational activities. Rabbi Sussman is Chair of the Board of Governors and Professor of Jewish History. of Gratz College in Melrose Park, PA. Gratz College is the oldest non-denominational Jewish institute of higher learning in the world and is the home of the first online Ph.D. program in Holocaust and Genocide Studies.
Sussman serves as Senior Scholar of Roots of Reform Judaism and was a past national Chair of the CCAR Press, the publishing arm of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He formerly served as a Trustee of the Katz Center for Advanced Judaic Studies at the University of Pennsylvania and the American Jewish Historical Society; and is an active member of the Academic Advisory and Editorial Board of the American Jewish Archives (Cincinnati). He is the founding president of the Cheltenham Area Multifaith Council and a former Chair of the Delaware Valley Association of Reform Rabbis.
Sussman has been involved nationally in promoting Jewish-Muslim dialogue. In recent years, KI has intensified its Social Action programs and now offers monthly home cooked meals to the food insecure and runs a tutorial program at the Lowell School in Olney. Sussman has also helped developed an outreach program to residents of Federation Housing including an annual Hanukkah dinner.
Previously, Rabbi Sussman served as Chair of the Jewish Studies Department at Binghamton University-SUNY. He has taught courses in Jewish History at Princeton University, Hebrew Union College in New York City, Rutgers University, Temple University and Hunter College. Rabbi Sussman has appeared in several PBS specials on Religion in America and is currently working on a documentary on the Philadelphia Jewish experience with with film producer Sam Katz.
Rabbi Sussman has published numerous books and articles, including Isaac Lesser and the Making of American Judaism, and Sharing Sacred Moments (a collection of his sermons); he also served as an editor of Reform Judaism in America: A Biographical Dictionary and Sourcebook. Most recently, he published a memorial study of the 24 members of KI who fell in service to the United States from the Civil War to the present. His dynamic, illustrated lectures on a wide array of topics range from Biblical to American, military and world history to Jews in arts, sports, film and more.
As KI’s spiritual leader, Rabbi Sussman nurtures a diverse and accepting congregation that represents a broad constituency in its nearly 1,000-member families. KI welcomes interfaith and LGBQT+ families and demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusiveness and social action in its many programs. Among Rabbi Sussman’s many initiatives at KI was the development of the synagogue’s seven Core Values, which are proudly displayed on colorful banners for all to see at KI’s main entrance. Rabbi Sussman also created the KI Puppets, and enjoys teaching young children through his role as “Torah Turtle”—one of the puppets that appears regularly in KI’s preschool and at Tot Shabbat services. A pioneer in Visual Prayer, Sussman led the initiative to create PowerPoint art-liturgy at KI and install the complex technology to support the process. Nationally, Rabbi Sussman was Chair of the Press of the Central Conference of American Rabbis when it launched its new Mishkhan prayer book series and oversaw the production of the ground breaking project. For over fifteen years, Sussman has led monthly Shabbat services at the Rydal retirement community in Jenkintown.
A prolific historian, Rabbi Sussman writes on a wide range of topics from the history of Art in Judaism to Jews and the American Civil War. He enjoys researching the history of KI, which was the fourth congregation to be established by the expanding Jewish community of Philadelphia when it was founded in March 1847. In 1855 the previously Orthodox congregation adopted Reform Judaism, becoming the first progressive congregation in Philadelphia and only the fifth in the country to embrace the movement of radical experimentation. Sussman is now leading an effort to create a digital, online KI Archives, the first of its kind, called kipah.org with plans to post 100,000 historic documents online. He has also led numerous international trips focusing on Jewish heritage in Israel, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Holland and Cuba.
Under Rabbi Sussman’s leadership, KI has been at the cutting of the Reform movement while maintaining the core and essence of Jewish practice and values. In July of 2022, Rabbi Sussman begins a new chapter at KI as Rabbi Emeritus.
Rabbi Sussman and his wife, Liz, Director of the KI Preschool and founder of KI’s Shir Joy Choir, share the joy of raising their children Benjamin & Kelly, Joshua & Sheri, Micah, Judah and Chana. The Sussmans have two grandchildren, Sophie and Charlotte.
The post Exploring American Jewish History with Rabbi Lance Sussman – SOM 7/25/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Michael Marmur discusses his book, Living the Letters: An Alphabet of Emerging Jewish Thought, which explores contemporary Jewish thought through the lens of the Hebrew alphabet. He delves into themes of anxiety as a catalyst for creativity, the tension between autonomy and covenant in modern Judaism, and the challenges of maintaining Jewish identity in a rapidly changing world. Marmur emphasizes the importance of hope amidst uncertainty and the need for a renewed commitment to Jewish practices that resonate with today’s realities.
In this work, Michael Marmur employs the structure of the Hebrew alphabet to set out elements of an emerging Jewish theology, presenting a case for the urgent relevance of Jewish life at a time of deepening rupture and accelerating change. He presents core components of a theory and practice of contemporary Judaism.
The Hebrew alphabet has long beguiled and preoccupied Biblical authors and liturgical poets, rationalists and mystics, conservatives and radicals. It has served as a locus of theological speculation, an engine of creativity and a recurrent motif throughout the cycle of life, from childhood instruction to graveside recitation. For each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Marmur proposes a concept, gleaned from theology, philosophy, ritual, politics, community and other fields. Readers are invited to combine and deploy them in imagining a Judaism of tomorrow.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Michael Marmur, Ph.D.Michael Marmur is Associate Professor of Jewish Theology at Hebrew Union College/Jerusalem. Until July 2018 he served as the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Provost at Hebrew Union College, having previously been Dean of the Jerusalem campus. After some 20 years in administrative capacities, he now concentrates his energies on teaching and writing.
Born and raised in England, Rabbi Marmur completed a B.A. Degree in Modern History at the University of Oxford before moving to Israel in 1984. While studying for an M.A. in Ancient Jewish History at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he completed his studies in the Israel Rabbinic Program of Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem, and was ordained in 1992. For six years following his ordination, he worked as rabbi and teacher at the Leo Baeck Education Center in Haifa. He has been an employee of HUC-JIR since 1997.
Michael Marmur served for three years as Chair of the Board of Rabbis for Human Rights and is still a member of its Board. He has lectured and taught courses in several countries around the world.
The post SOM 7/18/2025: Exploring Contemporary Jewish Thought through the Hebrew Alphabet appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbis Bennett Miller and Gary Glickstein discuss the activities of the National Association of Retired Reform Rabbis (NAORRR) and their collaboration with Maram, the professional organization for Reform rabbis in Israel. The discussion highlights the significance of these partnerships, the challenges faced by Reform rabbis, and the ongoing efforts to build connections between American and Israeli congregations.
Key Discussion Points* The role of NAORRR in supporting retired Reform rabbis and fostering connections with Israeli colleagues. * Insights into the collaboration with Maram and the impact of shared experiences and learning. * The challenges faced by Reform rabbis in Israel, including societal tensions and security concerns. * The importance of building bridges between American and Israeli congregations to foster mutual support and understanding. * Future plans for NAORRR, including continued collaboration and support for Reform rabbis in Israel.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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About the GuestsRabbi Gary GlicksteinRabbi Gary A. Glickstein was the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Sholom between1985-2018. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1971. He continued his education at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received his rabbinical ordination in 1974.
Rabbi Glickstein served as Assistant Rabbi of Congregation Bene Israel/Rockdale in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1974-1977 and then became Rabbi of Temple Sinai in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1977-1985.
In 1985, Rabbi Glickstein came to Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach as a vibrant, young scholar to serve as Senior Rabbi. His vitality and youthful approach have attracted many new members over the years as he has encouraged a greater involvement of the congregation in synagogue and Jewish life.
Rabbi Glickstein has distinguished himself as one of the leaders of the Miami community. He is the founding Executive Director of the Woldenberg Center for Jewish Life and serves on the advisory boards of the Lehrman Community Day School and the Greater Miami Coalition for a Drug Free Community. He is a board member and finance committee member of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. He serves as a board member for the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, is a board member and advisory board member for the Golden Care Foundation and is Past President of the Greater Miami Chapter Board of American Friends of the Hebrew University. Rabbi Glickstein is also Past President of the Rabbinical Association of Greater Miami.
Nationally, Rabbi Glickstein has distinguished himself as Past Chairman, Executive Committee of the UJA National Rabbinic Cabinet, Past Chairman and President of the National Rabbinic Cabinet of Israel Bonds and the Treasurer of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He is also a board member of the American Friends of ALYN Hospital.
Rabbi Glickstein’s commitment to the cross-cultural community in Miami is evidenced by his position as Past Chairman of the Religious Leaders Coalition and membership on the Executive Committee and Past Chair of the Education Committee for the Miami Coalition for a Drug Free Community. He is also a Past Board Member for the Miami Human Rights Commission and the Past Chairman of the Judaic Studies Advisory Committee to the president of Barry University.
Rabbi Bennett F. MillerRabbi Bennett F. Miller, a native of Rochester, N.Y., is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati. He earned a Master of Arts and Hebrew Letters from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati where he was ordained a Rabbi in 1974. He also earned his doctorate from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1988. In March 1999, he was awarded a Doctorate of Divinity Degree from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. In 2008, Rabbi Miller completed a Certificate in Fund Raising at the George Heyman Center for Non-Profit Management and Fund Raising at New York University.
Rabbi Miller is rabbi emeritus of Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He has been associated with Anshe Emeth since 1974. Founded in 1859, Anshe Emeth is the third oldest congregation in New Jersey. Before coming to Anshe Emeth, he was the spiritual leader of Congregation Havurah in Buffalo, N.Y. and the New Jersey State Advisory Council on the Holocaust.
Since October 2012, Rabbi Miller was elected to serve as the national Chair of the Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA). ARZA is the Zionist arm of the Reform Movement of North America. In his capacity as Chair, Rabbi Miller represents a membership of nearly 25,000 Zionists in Reform Congregations throughout the United States. Rabbi Miller also serves on the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency for Israel.
His varied activities include being the Chair of the National Rabbinic Cabinet of the United Jewish Communities. He has also served as a contributor to the Judaica Series of the Young Leadership Cabinet of United Jewish Appeal and to its rabbinic publication, The Orchard.
He currently serves as a member on the Board of Trustees of the Union for Reform Judaism. Rabbi Miller has served as Co-Chairman of the Union for Reform Judaism Commission on Synagogue Management and as founding Co-Chairman of the Union for Reform Judaism Commission on Synagogue Music (formerly, the Union of American Hebrew Congregations).
In the New Brunswick community, Rabbi Miller is the founding Chairman of the Clinical Pastoral Education Committee at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and continues to serve as its Chairman. He is the Jewish Chaplain to the New Brunswick Police Force. He has served on the Board of Elijah’s Promise, a non-profit interfaith organization dedicated to providing meals to the homeless and needy in New Brunswick. He served also on the New Brunswick Tercentennial Executive Committee.
At the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Miller serves as Instructor in Pastoral Theology in the Doctor of Ministry Program. He is also a member of the Clinical Faculty of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and he served as Instructor in Liturgy at the Jerusalem campus of the College-Institute.
Rabbi Miller is the author of Reform Jewish Identity: Developing A Program of Ministry to Guide the New Member of A Reform Synagogue to Mature Jewish Living. He is also the author of Siduree: A Prayerbook for Young Children, The Songs of Anshe Emeth for Shabbat, and numerous creative worship services. Rabbi Miller has also written the teacher’s guide to Why Pray? published by the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. He has had articles published in Compass Magazine and other periodicals and served for ten years as consultant to The Jewish Star, the newspaper of the Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County.
Rabbi Miller and his wife Joan are residents of Monroe Township, New Jersey. They are the parents of two daughters, Rabbi Ellie Miller of West Orange, New Jersey and Carrie Miller Nussbaum of Short Hills, New Jersey and proud grandparents of Sam Miller Lynn, Max Miller Nussbaum, Meg and Jack Miller Lynn, Gabriel Miller Nussbaum, and Benjamin Miller Nussbaum.
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On this week’s encore episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the multifaceted nature of caregiving with Barry Jacobs and Julia Meyer, co-authors of the AARP Caregiver Answer Book. Jacobs and Meyer discuss the emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges faced by caregivers, emphasizing the importance of planning, support systems, and self-compassion.
Barry and Julia also provide insights into the complexities of caregiving, including long-distance care, end-of-life decisions, and the psycho-spiritual transformations that occur during this journey.
If you’re among the millions of people annually who take on the role of providing unpaid care to family, friends, or neighbors, you are sure to face tough questions. How do I coordinate the care my loved one needs? How can I get other relatives to pitch in? Who pays for all this? Husband-and-wife psychologists Barry J. Jacobs and Julia L. Mayer — who have counseled family caregivers for over 30 years and cared for their own aging parents for a decade — have answers. Written in a Q&A format, this easy-to-navigate guide is packed with information, problem-solving and coping ideas, resources, stories, and communication tips. Drs. Jacobs and Mayer compassionately address everything you need to know to help your parent, spouse, or other care receiver. From managing family conflicts to hiring aides to optimizing end-of-life care, this is a book to return to at every step of the journey.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsBarry J. Jacobs, PsyDBarry J. Jacobs, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and family therapist who works with caregivers and care receivers in private practice in Media, Pennsylvania. He has written extensively about caregiving, including a long-running self-help column for caregivers on AARP.org, and is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Dr. Jacobs is also a Principal at a national health care consulting firm.
Julia L. Mayer, PsyDJulia L. Mayer, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in Media, Pennsylvania, who specializes in working with women and has a growing focus on supporting caregivers. She is coauthor of articles and books on caregiving and relationships with her husband, Barry J. Jacobs, and is also a published novelist. Dr. Mayer is cohost of a podcast on psychology and social justice and a former president of the Philadelphia Psychology Network.
The post ENCORE: Seekers of Meaning 6/6/2025: Navigating the Complexities of Caregiving appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Wendy Green, a life transition coach and host of the Boomer Banter Podcast, about the various aspects of aging, including the importance of purpose, the challenges of ageism, and the significance of community connections. They explore the fears associated with aging, the concept of successful aging, and the impact of belief systems on one’s experience of growing older. Wendy shares her personal journey and insights on how to embrace authenticity and find meaning in life as we age.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestWendy GreenWendy Green is the host of the popular and inspirational Boomer Banter podcast, where each episode is dedicated to “Real Talk” about aging well. With a background in training and development, life coaching, and change leadership, Wendy brings a powerful blend of curiosity, compassion, and research-driven insight to every conversation — alongside some of the most dynamic and thought-provoking guests around.
A lifelong learner and dedicated coach, Wendy is passionate about living fully and helping others realize that it’s never too late to set a new goal or dream a new dream. Her mission with Boomer Banter is to create a safe and vibrant space where listeners come to grow, be inspired, and make the world a better place—for themselves and for future generations.
Outside the studio, Wendy takes immense pride in her two adult children and four wonderful grandchildren. Her home is also lovingly ruled by Pepper the cat, who is firmly convinced she’s in charge—and she just might be right.
The post Embracing Aging: Insights ‘from Boomer Banter Podcast’ Host Wendy Green – Seekers of Meaning 6/27/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with Carol Orsborn, author of Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life. They explore the spiritual dimensions of aging, discussing how the later stages of life can be a time for personal growth, humility, and deeper understanding. Carol emphasizes the importance of faith, the acceptance of reality, and the value of solitude, while also addressing societal perceptions of loneliness and the myth of control. The conversation highlights the significance of finding joy in the present moment and the role of community in navigating the aging process.
About the BookPresents years of weekly inspiration and practices pointing the way forward through every conceivable mood, opportunity, and stumbling block on the spiritual journey through the second half of life
• Includes quotes and stories by and about mystics, sages, and old souls from ancient through contemporary times who have walked this path before us
• Shares insightful guidance on transforming loneliness to solitude, loss of identity to freedom, anger to self-protection, fear to faith, and envy to love
Many of us navigating the years beyond midlife report high levels of self-acceptance, freedom, and joy, but there can also be bouts of second-guessing and regret as well as the occasional longing to be reminded that you’re not in this alone.
Designed to be read weekly in two-year cycles, the 120 timeless readings in this book focus on the issues and concerns that arise among those who view aging as a path to spiritual culmination. Transforming loneliness to solitude, loss of identity to freedom, anger to self-protection, fear to faith, and envy to love, Orsborn’s wise and compassionate insights are seasoned by quotes and stories by and about mystics, sages, and old souls from ancient through contemporary times who illuminate the path to living a full life while embracing old age. The connecting thread is the reminder that you have what it takes to shift from reacting with fear to the challenges of aging, instead accepting these challenges in a spirit of gratitude as they help you grow not just old, but whole.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestCarol Orsborne, Ph.D.Dr. Carol Orsborn is the best-selling author of over 35 books including her forthcoming Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life (Inner Traditions, December, ’24.) Her body of work includes The Making of an Old Soul: Aging as the Fulfillment of Life’s Promise. Older, Wiser, Fiercer: The Wisdom Collection and 2015 Gold Nautilus Book Award winner in the category of Consciously Aging: The Spirituality of Age: A Seeker’s Guide to Growing Older (with Robert L. Weber, Ph.D.) She has recently launched the Spiritual Aging Study and Support Group (SASS) at Spiritual Aging@ Substack.com. She founded the Conscious Aging Book Club in conjunction with Parnassus Books and now housed at CarolOrsborn.com, and the Sage-ing Book Club run in conjunction with the leading organization in the field Sage-ing International
Carol is curator of Fierce with Age: The Archives of Boomer Wisdom, Inspiration, and Spirituality, housed at CarolOrsborn.com and a leading voice of the conscious aging and spirituality and aging movements. For the past decade, she has also blogged about the Boomer Generation for Huffington Post, BeliefNet.com and PBS’s Next Avenue, among others.
Dr. Orsborn received her Masters of Theological Studies and Doctorate in History and Critical Theory of Religion from Vanderbilt University with post-graduate work in Spiritual Counseling at the New Seminary in Manhattan. She is an internationally-recognized thought leader on the fulfillment of the human potential through all life stages.
The post Finding Joy in Aging: Insights from Carol Orsborn – Seekers of Meaning 6/20/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address led “The Art of Caregiving,” a webinar for Valley Beit Midrash, Scottsdale, AZ, on June 4, 2025.
In this session, we will discuss the new life stage of Caregiving and how Jewish texts and tradition have approached this issue. Based on the 5th Commandment, we will examine how our tradition has looked at this life stage from the Talmud through contemporary commentaries. We will look at what it means to “honor” and “respect”, the issue of who and how an adult child “pays”, as well as when it may be permissible to cede care to a third party. We will look at difficult questions, such as do we need a new vocabulary for caregiving in light of technology and the challenges of “quality of life” and the emerging issue of Medical Aid in Dying.
You can watch the discussion in the player below. Download the study guide here.
You can also listen to the program as an audio podcast in the player below.
The post Caregiving as a new life stage: Valley Beit Midrash Webinar, June 4, 2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
What if the key to aging well isn’t about fighting change… but learning to make peace with it?
We have all looked in the mirror and thought, “When did this happen?” Or realized that we are often the oldest person in the room.
On Monday, June 9, Rabbi Richard Address, host of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast and director of Jewish Sacred Aging, joined Wendy Green for a conversation about acceptance and surrender— not as giving up, but as powerful tools to deepen your relationship with yourself as you age.
You can watch the recording of the conversation in the player below.
Be sure to watch Wendy Green’s visit to the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast June 27.
The post Rabbi Address appears on the Boomer Banter Podcast appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Rabbi Roy Furman about his book, Torah Wrestling.
They explore the moral challenges presented in the Torah, the significance of marginalized voices, and the reinterpretation of traditional narratives, including Eve’s role in the Garden of Eden and the sailors in the Book of Jonah. The discussion emphasizes the importance of wrestling with sacred texts to uncover deeper moral wisdom relevant to contemporary life.
In Torah Wrestling, Rabbi Roy Furman invites readers into an engaging and transformative exploration of the most challenging and inspiring stories in the Bible’s first five books. With intellectual rigor, deep ethical sensitivity, and a storyteller’s grace, Rabbi Furman breathes new life into stories both familiar and unfamiliar. This book is an ideal book for Jews, Christians and Muslims who wrestle with the moral dilemmas of our time while drawing wisdom from the Torah’s timeless teachings.
In a “Foreword from a Christian Perspective,” Reformed Journal Editor Jeffrey Munroe writes: “I wished I had been a member of one of Rabbi Furman’s congregations. He explores the Bible, in particular difficult passages of the Bible, with life-giving, refreshing freedom.” Then, in an Afterword from a Muslim Perspective, Wayne State University scholar Saeed Khan reminds readers that these timeless texts are “some of the greatest stories in the human experience.”
Rabbi Furman’s interpretations often challenge traditional understandings while remaining deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and a profound love for Torah, and his Jewish colleagues agree. Torah Wrestling can bring people together across religious and cultural lines to talk about how these Bible stories can be “a mirror for our world today,” writes Rabbi Allan Kensky in his Preface to the book.
Even if you “are coming to Torah for the first time, Rabbi Furman’s innovative insights will intrigue and empower you,” writes Rabbi Laura Geller.
That’s because Rabbi Furman confronts the complexities of sacred scripture with honesty and courage, grappling with issues of patriarchy, intolerance, divine justice, and human suffering. He encourages readers to embrace the struggle, offering fresh insights that empower readers to find relevance and inspiration in ancient texts.
Perfect for individual reflection or group study. Rabbi Furman offers readers a free, downloadable discussion guide to help spark spirited conversations.
Torah Wrestling bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges, inviting all readers to discover the vibrant, transformative power of Torah.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Roy FurmanRabbi Roy Furman is a native of New York, educated at Queens College, and ordained by Hebrew Union College—Jewish Institute of Religion in 1971. His writing and thinking as a rabbi and as a Jew have been influenced by his work with havurot (Jewish fellowship groups), minyanim (prayer groups), and Jewish congregations in Los Angeles, Portland, Chicago, and Evanston, Illinois; by his Hillel work at the University of Southern California and DePaul University; by his graduate work in the history of religions, ancient Judaism, and courses at DePaul; by his training and practice as a clinical social worker; and by his numerous stays in Israel: traveling, working, studying, and doing archaeological work over the entire course of his adult life. He now lives in Chicago with his wife, Dr. Frida Kerner Furman, a retired DePaul professor of social ethics and religious studies. His daughter Daniella is a neuroscientist living in Berkeley, California, with her wife, Yula, and their absolutely adorable child, Ilani.
The post Rabbi Roy Furman’s “Torah Wrestling”: A Deep Dive into Moral Challenges on 5/30/2025 Seekers of Meaning appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes Matt Field, co-founder, and Audrey Friedland, RN, nurse advocate, from Right at Home Home Health Care North Suburban Chicago.
The conversation delves into the complexities of home healthcare, exploring the challenges families face when caring for aging loved ones. It highlights the importance of understanding home healthcare services, the personal journeys of caregivers, and the evolving dynamics of family caregiving. The discussion also addresses key considerations for making informed decisions about home care, the financial implications, and the impact of political changes on caregiving. Finally, it emphasizes the significance of training and support for caregivers to ensure quality care for clients.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsMatt Field (and Rachel Field)Matt and Rachel Field are the proud founders and leaders of Right at Home of North Suburban Chicago. Matt grew up on the North Shore, and Rachel grew up in Baltimore; they met at Union College in Schenectady, NY. Both have professional backgrounds in non-profit work, where they supported individuals and families in their communities.
Since opening Right at Home in 2012, Matt, Managing Partner, and Rachel, Principal Partner, have built a dedicated team of professionals driven by core values including compassion, respect, advocacy, accountability, and innovation. Together, they ensure the organization consistently delivers exceptional care and serves the community with integrity and dignity.
Outside of work, Matt and Rachel cherish spending time with their family and beloved dogs, Mabel and Louie. Matt enjoys lifelong fitness pursuits, while Rachel loves reading, is an avid walker, and enjoys playing mahjong with friends.
Audrey FriedlandAudrey Friedland R.N. is the nurse manager for Right at Home, North Suburban Chicago. She graduated from Michael Reese Nursing School and has been a nurse for 47 years with a wide range of experiences. She has worked general medical/surgical floors in a hospital, out patient clinics for Northwestern, Psychiatrics, Pediatrics and Geriatrics. She was a director of nursing for 15 years in a skilled nursing facility.
At Right at Home Northwest Suburban Chicago, Audrey oversees client care, assesses new clients and clients with change of condition, updates care plans. Her role is flexible and spends most of her time visiting with clients.
Audrey lives with her husband and has 4 children and 7 grandchildren. Her hobbies are reading, crocheting and needlepoint. However, most free time is spent with her grandchildren.
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/23/2025: Understanding Home Healthcare Challenges appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Connie Zweig delves into the concept of shadow work, exploring its significance in understanding our hidden selves and the implications of shadow projection in society. She and Rabbi Address discuss the resurgence of interest in shadow work, the psychological mechanisms behind projection, and the impact of mortality awareness on personal growth. Connie shares insights from her clinical practice and the importance of integrating body-mind connections in shadow work, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and understanding in navigating our inner darkness.
Connie’s BooksCheating… lying … jealousy … blaming … greed … shame… These forbidden feelings and behaviors erupt from the dark, denied part of ourselves-the personal shadow. But they erupt with a purpose: They are trying to tell us their secrets.
Meeting the Shadow is a landmark collection of 65 wide-ranging essays by thought leaders – including Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, Ken Wilber, James Hillman, Susan Griffin, Harville Hendrix—on the dark side of human nature as it appears in families, intimate relationships, sexuality, work, spirituality, politics, therapy, and creativity. It presents tools for Shadow Work that enable us to make a conscious relationship with the shadow, defuse negative emotions, release guilt and shame, achieve a genuine self-acceptance, and heal our relationships.
Although we think of the shadow as containing only darkness, as Jung stated, its essence is “pure gold.”
**AN UPDATED EDITION OF THE BREAKTHROUGH BOOK THAT LAUNCHED SHADOW-WORK INTO THE WORLD―WITH A NEW FOREWORD BY KEILA SHAHEEN AND A NEW PREFACE
The classic, provocative bestselling guide on shadow-work that “enables you to peel away the layers of your soul and get in touch with the purity of Being that lies within you” (Deepak Chopra, M.D.).**
“My guiding light . . . The wisdom within its pages served as both an anchor and a compass, guiding me toward a deeper understanding of the greater human experience.”—Keila Shaheen, author of the bestselling The Shadow-Work Journal
Beneath the social mask we wear every day, we have a hidden shadow side: an impulsive, wounded, sad, or isolated part that we generally try to ignore. But as therapists Connie Zweig and Steve Wolf show in this landmark book, the shadow can actually be a source of emotional richness and vitality, and acknowledging it can be a pathway to healing and living an authentic life. “Romancing the shadow”—meeting your dark side, accepting it for what it is, and learning to use its powerful energies in productive ways—is the challenging and exciting work that Zweig and Wolf offer in this practical, rewarding guide.
Drawing on the timeless teachings of Carl Jung and compelling stories of men and women whom they have helped in their clinical practices, Zweig and Wolf reveal how the shadow guides your choices in love, sex, marriage, friendship, work, and family life. With their innovative methods on shadow work, you can:
• uncover the unique patters and purpose of your shadow
• learn to defuse negative emotions
• reclaim forbidden or lost feelings
• achieve greater self-acceptance
• heal betrayal
• reimagine and re-create relationships
• cultivate compassion for others
• renew creative expression
• find purpose in your suffering
The shadow knows why good people sometimes do bad things. Romancing the shadow and learning to read the messages it encodes in daily life can deepen your consciousness, imagination, and soul.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestConnie ZweigConnie Zweig, Ph.D. is a retired Jungian therapist and author of Meeting the Shadow (A New Edition is now available) and Romancing the Shadow (A New Edition is now available).Her award-winning book, The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul, extends Shadow-work into midlife and beyond and explores aging as a spiritual practice. Her book, Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path: The Dance of Darkness and Light in Our Search for Awakening, extends shadow-work into religion and spirituality. Her new PODCAST, Dr. Neil’s Spiritual Awakening to Non-Duality, posts on all podcast platforms. See her new SUBSTACK for livestreams and new writing: https://www.shadowworkawareness.com/about.
The post Understanding Shadow Work: Insights from Connie Zweig on Seekers of Meaning 5/16/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Yiscah Smith discusses her forthcoming (June 1) book, Planting Seeds of the Divine: Torah Commentaries to Cultivate Your Spiritual Practice, a book that helps readers understand how Judaism’s sacred texts can provide the foundation for the “end destination” of experiencing intimate encounters with the Divine Presence within.
Experiencing deep personal fulfillment, happiness, and sustenance comes from feeling connected to our authentic selves, which involves building an ongoing relationship with the Divine Presence within us, says author Yiscah Smith. Quite organically, then, we may begin sensing the Divine in our interactions with other people. This is because, for each of us, “our essence, as a creation by God, is God.”
Planting Seeds of the Divine elucidates how Judaism’s sacred texts can provide the foundation for the “end destination” of experiencing intimate encounters with the Divine Presence within — the God-consciousness that so many of us find elusive. Imagining ourselves as spiritual gardeners, we can cultivate our unique gardens with seeds centered on middot (emotional dispositions, character traits, spiritual sensitivities). Each seed corresponds to an aspirational Torah commentary, consisting of a selected Torah verse linked to one of the middot, a summary of the biblical text preceding the verse, classical commentaries, teachings of Hasidic and Neo-Hasidic masters and the author, and step-by-step experiential practices to help us internalize the middot and encounter the Divine.
Each seed contributes to the garden’s beauty — the beauty of the self in God-consciousness — which hopefully blossoms into a magnificent garden of the soul.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Yiscah SmithYiscah Smith is a thought leader, spiritual activist and agent of change who addresses the spiritual practice of encountering the Divine spark within and beyond.
She relies on Jewish spiritual teachings to inspire her students, acting as a compass, gently guiding them to their unique inner selves. She encourages, empowers and ennobles others to remain faithful to their individual spiritual paths.
Yiscah teaches at the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies, Applied Jewish Spirituality (AJS) and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality (IJS). She founded Conscious Community Nachlaot, an organization in Jerusalem that hosts Shabbat spiritual gatherings. Her forthcoming book Planting Seeds of the Divine: Torah Commentaries to Cultivate Your Spiritual Practice, jointly published by the University of Nebraska Press (UNP) and the Jewish Publication Society (JPS), will be released this coming 01 June. To pre-order please click here.
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/9/2025: Planting Seeds of the Divine, with Rabbi Yiscah Smith appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
That is the Question on this Mother’s Day!Is that a real question or a cultural symbol/stereotype of our people? Does one choose to be a Jewish Mother or did the Ashkenazi Jewish real-life experiences of Eastern European communities follow our immigrant relatives to the shores of the New World?
Regardless of the thread that weaves a very ethnic tradition among Jews, most likely we all have experienced the wrath, guilt, demands, fury and smothering of love and food of a Jewish Mother in some form or another! And let’s note, there is NOTHING like the logic of a Jewish Mother!
Because mothers were central to family life and preserving the Jewish traditions (not the religious aspects of life — that was the job of the Papa, as Tevya would say!), she was responsible for the success of her children. To be a learned scholar for her sons was every mother’s dream while hopefully her daughters made a glorious shidduch (marriage) and bore many children.
The self-sacrificing, food-obsessed, overprotective and guilt-inducing characteristics of the Jewish Mother were defined and perpetuated by the American Jewish comics of the Borscht Belt, the radio and TV Gertrude Berg’s portrayal of “The Goldbergs,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Shtisel,” and movies like Philip Roth’s “Portnoy’s Complaint,” “Bye Bye Braverman,” “Heartburn,” “Mother,” and my favorites, “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Garbo Talks,” and “Crossing Delancy.”
Let’s remember our beloved comedians who help us recognize the pain of being Jewish through comedy to make life a bit easier, like Jackie Mason, Myron Cohen, Alan King, Mel Brooks, Don Rickles, Gilda Radner, Woody Alan, Joan Rivers, Billy Crystal, Larry David, Jerry Seinfeld, Sarah Silverman and one of the funniest of new is a wonderful comedian who I follow on Facebook named Modi Rosenfeld, who I highly recommend you watch. They have all entertained us with belly laughs and tears in our eyes because we see ourselves, our mothers and grandmothers and our Jewish lives before us while teaching us the Jewish Mother is not universal to us individually but to our unique Jewish heritage and culture that is critical to preserving our history.
With origins of celebrating mothers and goddesses in Ancient Greece and Rome circa sixth century BCE along with the UK in the 16th century, Mother’s Day originated in the United States in the early 20th century with official recognition by President Woodrow Wilson in 1914 and celebrated on the second Sunday in May, as a national holiday.
Whether it’s family brunch, picnics, dinners, cards and gifts, we take time to honor those who gave us life, guided our growth, fed us, cleaned us, shed tears with and for us, each Jewish Mother owns a story in our hearts. With the help of an array of people, I compiled some of those precious moments that I hope will resonate with you and bring you a feeling of warmth and belonging knowing that we share beloved stories of commonality within our Jewishness.
And as we celebrate Mother’s Day on May 11, let’s remember the Woman of Valor who shows inner strength, resilience, moral courage, leadership in community, tzedakah and most importantly, as no one can take away the profound status of a Jewish Mother, we express our gratitude and love for our Mothers and Grandmothers.
Steven: I have memories as a young child of hearing family members talking in Yiddish and suddenly my Grandmother would scrunch up her face and with distain say “Ptu! Ptu! Ptu!” while make a spitting noise! When I was older, I finally asked my Mother what that was all about and she explained it was a way to keep the Evil Eye away from us so we wouldn’t have bad luck and we would be surrounded by protection. My Grandmother’s face in those moments bring me joy as I really believe she always has been my protector!
Sheila: Days before every Rosh Hashanah and Pesach, I would take my Mother to Fairfax Avenue in Los Angeles, which from the early 20th century was the hub of Jewish life in LA. To her, it was the only place in LA that had authentic Jewish/Kosher foods. This twice-a-year experience turned out to be so embarrassing for me that I would wait outside the various stores for her! She would ask the butcher for a chicken. He would start to wrap it up and she would scream at him to “STOP!” “Vhat’s wrong?” he would ask. She (every time) would say to him, “How fresh is that chicken? How do I know how long it’s been sitting here?” With a growl on his face, and it never failed, the butcher would say, “Lady! You don’t smell as fresh as this chicken!”
She would also question the grocer as to when the celery and carrots were picked and tell the deli man that her pickles were better than his! He would retort, “Then don’t buy mine, make them yourself!” Oy vey! I couldn’t get through to her how mortifying these shopping days were and she would say, “When it’s your hard-earned money you’re spending and it’s your family you’re feeding, you’ll do the same thing!” Lesson learned: DON’T ever question the wisdom of a Jewish Mother!
This video is our Bubbie, filmed by Sandy’s brother, whom the original verses reflect. The baby in the bath is his son.
Sandy: My Bubbie lived with me and my two brothers after our parents were killed in a car accident and she was the quintessential typical Jewish Bubbie! I have so many stories but these are truly the Jewish Mother examples! My brother, Neal, was an athlete, strong, sturdy, a real jock! But every week when it was garbage day, she wouldn’t say a word to Neal about taking the cans out to the front of the house the night before — NO! She would wake up at 5:00am the next morning and schlep the cans herself! When I would yell at her saying I would do it, she was determined in her resolve that I did too much for her, and “Besides, Neakala shouldn’t schlep things because he needs his sleep because he has to have his strength for his sports and I wouldn’t maybe want him to hurt himself and not be able to play ball!”
Sandy: Unrelenting in her devotion and protection of me and my two brothers, our Bubbie had three opportunities to find herself in front of judges. The first was when 16-year-old Fred got a ticket, I think for speeding not long after he got his driver’s license. While he presented himself before the judge and was answering the judge’s questions, Bubbie, in her Yiddish/Russian accent, kept interrupting him and saying, “Judge! He’s a good boy! He does his homework! His mother and father died in a car crash! He’s a good boy! He wouldn’t do anything bad!” The judge kept saying, “Lady, sit down! I’m sure he’s a good boy!” She persisted; but paid the fine.
When I was planning my wedding and my finances were tied up in probate after my parent’s death, we had to go to court to get funds for the wedding. Bubbie did her thing by standing up in the courtroom, yelling out, “Judge! Her parents were killed in a car crash, she needs more money for a beautiful vedding! That’s not enough money, Judge! Who can plan a zedding with that bissel amount!” Once again she was told to sit down and be quiet! Don’t ask if she kept quiet! Oy vey, G-d love her, she was our hero!
After being in America for almost 50 years, Bubbie decided to go through the process of becoming a US citizen! She took the classes and passed all the tests (as a young girl in Ukraine, she was educated at the gymnasium so she was very intelligent and well read).
Before she was sworn in, she was escorted to sit in front of a judge who said to her: “Madam, please explain to me what the system of checks and balances is.” as she told the story to us, she said, in her Yiddish/Russian accent–that she claimed she did not have!–“I got out of mine chair, leaned forward, and looked directly into the eyes of the judge and said, “You vatch my back! I vatch yours!” Hail to the new citizen of the United States of America!
Fred: Back in late 1979, my girlfriend and I had been living together in Oakland, California for about six months. Then, out of nowhere, my grandmother, Bubbie, who had raised me since I was seven, announced that she was coming to visit us from Los Angeles for a weekend.
Bubbie, who was only five feet tall, flew to San Francisco and arrived with three huge suitcases. My car was barely big enough for two, and she was only supposed to be there until Sunday. The drive was quiet until I finally broke the ice, “Bubbie, why do you have so much luggage?”
In her usual dismissive tone with a heavy Ashkenazi Yiddish accent, she replied, “Because I’m not leaving until you’re engaged!”
“Wait! What?! That’s great, but we’re not there yet. We’re having fun, working hard, but we haven’t even talked about whether or not marriage is in the cards for us.”
“That’s fine, but I’m not leaving until you’re engaged!”
“But you left Pa (grandfather) at home alone, how’s he going to take care of himself?”
“I prepared all his meals, left them in the fridge, and there’s more in the freezer. So dat’s dat! I’m not leaving until you’re engaged!!”
I was completely shocked and confused. The awkward silence in the car lingered until we finally arrived at our cozy one-bedroom Oakland rental.
Bubbie, being the impulsive one she is, couldn’t resist her mission when she walked in the door. She held court all night. We couldn’t help but laugh and throw up our hands in disbelief. After we tucked Bubbie in on the sofa bed, Joanne and I had a long, serious conversation in our room. We were determined to get her to leave by the end of the weekend.
The next morning, we announced that we were engaged! Bubbie was so proud of herself that she crossed her arms, raised her eyebrows, and simply said, “Nu? Vat did I tell ya?”
Nearly 45 years later, we still can’t help but laugh about all the hilarious things Bubbie said and did. Like many of her insights, she was absolutely right!
Joanne: My husband of 45 years & I moved in together which, in my mother’s mind, meant we would be living in sin. Shortly thereafter, she said that she & my dad would be giving us a sofa bed as an engagement present. “But we’re not engaged,” I said. She replied, “I can handle you living together if you’re going to get married. So, when you do get engaged, you’ll know that we already gave you the gift!”
Debra: As a little girl, I wondered why my grandmother would bite on a sugar cub before she took a sip of her tea. When I was older, I asked her why she did that and her answer was, “Because that’s what my grandmother did! So I do it!” A true example of Jewish tradition!
(The tradition of biting down on a cube of sugar while drinking tea is believed to have originated in Russia and parts of Eastern Europe. In Russia, this practice is known as Закуска, which means drinking in a bite. It dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries when refined sugar was expensive and came in large, solid blocks. People would break off small pieces and hold them between their teeth while sipping tea, allowing the sugar to dissolve gradually.)
Paul: My mom was a great cook. And she just loved to cook everything. As a result, I spent most of my life as a very obese person. My mom’s name was Sydell and this is a perfect quote from her. She made fantastic brownies FYI…“Paul you really need to eat better. You gained some weight but guess what? I made you brownies!!!”
Lynn: My grandmother was 14 when she arrived from Ukraine….she only spoke Yiddish…and never learned to read or write. But….her recipes….all in her head were delicious. I loved her pletzlas….she had a very special green bowl, one of only a few precious articles she was able to bring to the US….Every Shabbat she made these delicious rolls….That died with her.
To BE or NOT to be a Jewish Mother in the 21 century? Can we? Is it possible? Do we want to be? Like many ethnic cultures that came from the Old Country, they brought their traditions and life experiences that created the original, the classic, the difficult, but the most loving, caring and giving Mothers and Grandmothers that have a stature all their own. We honor them for their selflessness, their wisdom and pure devotion to us.
All Women of Valor! Happy Mother’s Day!…Sandy
PS: My son-in-law’s mother recently passed away and I watched her children scramble to find all her important legal NUMBERS, like: Social Security, driver’s license and VIN, health care provider, Medicare, bank accounts, credit cards, unlock phone code, garage door code, computer unlock, etc.!
I immediately sat down and made a list for my kids to have! There are several SAFE ways to hand the info over, like creating a password-protected PDF or Excel file; share via a secure cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox; print out a hard copy to keep in a safe deposit box or fireproof safe or lockbox secured at home. During the loss of someone, this info can help to make things easier! On this Mother’s Day, ask your mom for her important info.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Julie Ketover, a life and executive coach, discusses the transformative power of coaching, the differences between coaching and therapy, and the role of fear in personal growth. Julie and Rabbi Address explore Julie’s journey from law to coaching, the importance of agency and values in coaching conversations, and the spiritual dimensions of coaching. The discussion emphasizes the significance of living a life aligned with one’s true desires and the challenges of navigating transitions in later life.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJulie KetoverJulie Ketover is an executive and leadership coach, as well as a facilitator, writer, and speaker, with nearly two decades of experience in the legal industry. Before turning to coaching, Julie held a number of positions in the field of law, including as a practicing attorney, senior business operations professional, and talent developer at law firms. She brings her depth of experience in the legal industry to her coaching and training of law firm partners and associates, C suite and other senior law firm executives, and in-house counsel and General Counsels of public and private companies.
Julie has also worked with companies in other industry sectors, including media, technology, financial services and healthcare and has coached C suite, senior executives and entrepreneurs in those companies. She was a Guide for Chief and facilitates other groups of professionals through Medley, Due Course and the Women’s Leadership Online Certificate Program through the University of Delaware.
Julie brings to bear keen understanding, relatability, and humor that facilitate trust and effective collaboration. In her practice, Julie works with high performing, goal-oriented professionals in demanding environments. Her clients learn to challenge and trust themselves, to up-level their leadership, to self-advocate, to manage their teams more effectively, and to achieve their goals with purpose and commitment.
Julie lives with her husband and two daughters in Voorhees, New Jersey. Being committed to service and community, Julie currently serves as the Vice President of the Board of Education in the local public school system, an elected position. She recently completed a four-year term as a Board Member for the International Coaching Federation of Philadelphia and a six-year term as a Board Member and Vice President of the Board of the Jewish Community Relations Council of South Jersey. She currently serves as a volunteer for Project Sarah domestic violence program, a part of Jewish Family and Children’s Service of South Jersey. She graduated Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude from Yale University, where she majored in psychology. Following college, Julie received her law degree at NYU School of Law.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Andrew Mulberg discusses the profound implications of genetic technology, particularly CRISPR, on healthcare and aging. He explores the ethical considerations surrounding genetic manipulation, the potential for revolutionary changes in medicine, and the intersection of science and religion. The conversation also touches on the public’s mistrust of science, the role of artificial intelligence in medicine, and the FDA’s drug approval process, emphasizing the need for careful oversight in the face of rapid advancements.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the Guest*Andrew W. Mulberg, MD, FAAP, CPI*Andrew is currently an Executive pharmaceutical leader leading strategy and operational aspects of drug and biological development for NDA and BLA submissions for pediatric and adult rare diseases, cystic fibrosis, gastroenterology and hepatology.
He is currently Senior Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance and Quality Control at Neurogene Inc, a company devoted to gene therapy approaches to management of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adults including Rett syndrome.
Formerly, he served Senior Vice President, Global Regulatory Affairs at Amicus Therapeutics from 2016-2020 and responsible for the approval of Galafold (migalastat) for the treatment of Fabry disease in adults. He has been involved in the registration planning for AT-GAA, a novel enzyme replacement therapy for Pompe disease in infants, children and adults.
He served as Division Deputy Director of Gastroenterology and Inborn Errors Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2010-2016. Before joining FDA, Andrew was Portfolio Leader in Established Products responsible for worldwide leadership of Internal Medicine products in Johnson and Johnson from 2000-2010. Andrew is a graduate of Columbia College of Columbia University and of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. He completed his residency in Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia followed by a Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinical Fellowship and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Cellular and Molecular Physiology at New England Medical Center.
Andrew is Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and has served as Attending, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition at Cooper University Hospital in New Jersey caring for children with gastrointestinal diseases. He is Principal Editor of *Pediatric Drug Development: Concepts and Applications***, published in 2011 and 2013.
He is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, American Gastroenterological Association and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/18/2025: Ethical Considerations of Genetic Engineering in Medicine with Dr. Andrew Mulberg appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address engages with Rabbi Amy Schwartzman, senior rabbi of Temple Rodef Shalom, Falls Church, VA, and Rabbi Matthew Soffer, senior rabbi of Judea Reform Congregation, Durham, NC, to explore the significance of Passover in the context of current events.
They discuss how this year’s Seder will resonate deeply with themes of oppression, resistance, and hope, reflecting on personal and communal challenges. The conversation highlights the evolving role of progressive Judaism and the importance of faith and community in navigating difficult times, ultimately calling for action and inspiration as they approach the holiday.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsSnake RiverRabbi Amy SchwartzmanRabbi Schwartzman was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She received her Masters of Hebrew Literature in 1988, and ordination in 1990, from the Hebrew Union College Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City. Following ordination, she joined Temple Rodef Shalom as our Temple’s first Assistant Rabbi and became the synagogue’s first Associate Rabbi. In June of 1998, following the retirement of Rabbi Lazlo Berkowits z”l, Rabbi Schwartzman was installed as Senior Rabbi of Rodef Shalom, giving Temple Rodef Shalom the distinction of being one of the largest congregations headed by a woman rabbi.
Rabbi Schwartzman is involved in the leadership of many Jewish organizations and has served on the executive board of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR) and co-coordinated the Women’s Rabbinic Network of Reform Judaism. She has also worked with many community organizations including the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, many national and local housing organizations, and has been active in community AIDS projects.
Rabbi Matthew SofferRabbi Matthew V. Soffer is the senior rabbi of Judea Reform Temple in Durham, South Carolina.
He lives in Durham with his wife and three children.
Rabbi Soffer was ordained as a graduate of the New York Campus of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. He served at Temple Israel of Boston since 2009, beginning as a rabbinic intern and finishing as Senior Associate Rabbi. As a Student Rabbi, he served at Main Line Reform Temple and Congregation Beth Elohim, both in New York. His work has included portfolios in Social Jusice and in outreach to and engagement of Jews in their 20s and 30s.
Among his honors are the Religious Action Center’s 50 Faces of Justice, Newsweek/Daily Beast’s 10 Rabbi’s to Watch, and NFTY President’s Award. His publications include “Global Swarming: Can We Become Worthy of Creation,” CCAR Press, 2017; several commentaries and essays on My Jewish Learning, on Reform Judaism.org, and in The Times of Israel. His work also includes music composition and performance, comedy, and community organizing.
The topic of his Rabbinic Thesis, “Listening for Laughter: Sensing Humor in the Babylonian Talmud,” is a wonderful window on his character and style.
You can follow him on Twitter @MattSoffer and listen to his podcast, Pulpit on the Commons.
The post Passover Reflections from two rabbis on Seekers of Meaning 4/11/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Patricia Greenberg discusses her book, It’s OK to Be Old. She and Rabbi Address also discuss the pro-aging movement, emphasizing the importance of embracing aging rather than fearing it. She highlights cultural shifts in the representation of older adults, the generational differences in attitudes towards aging, and the significance of defining one’s own life. Greenberg also explores the role of spirituality in aging, the benefits and challenges of community living, and the importance of controlling one’s end-of-life decisions with dignity.
“It’s Ok to be Old” is an entertaining, yet informative book that lets people of a certain age embrace how to be in today with strategies that help each of us live life to the fullest when we reach those later years. One of the greatest accomplishments in life is accepting the things you cannot change, and embracing every one of life’s precious moments.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestPatricia GreenbergAs a pro aging expert, Patricia is a sought after national speaker for TV, Radio, Podcasts and conferences. She consults, teaches, and hosts a weekly YouTube show titled It’s OK to be Old.
As the author of five books on nutrition, fitness, wellness and fulfilling life’s goals, she has a special interest in enhancing the education of the general public, and providing accurate health information to today’s consumer.
Passionate about her own wellness, Patricia ran 20 marathons, 115 half marathons, and climbed towers and stadiums all over the country. Now at 64, she is a long distance walker, Yin Yogi and gym devotee, determined to stay strong for life. Married with a grown daughter, in her downtime she is an avid knitter and book club junkie.
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/4/2025: Insights from ‘It’s OK to Be Old’ author Patricia Greenberg appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Barbara Weinstein shares insights on the connection between hearing loss and cognitive health, the role of hearing aids and cochlear implants, and practical advice for optimizing communication. The discussion emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive measures to protect hearing and maintain a fulfilling life as we grow older. This conversation explores the critical issue of hearing loss as we age, discussing its prevalence, impact on quality of life, and the importance of social engagement.
Takeaways* Hearing loss affects 30-35% of adults aged 65-75. * Higher frequency sounds are typically lost first with age. * Social engagement is crucial for longevity and cognitive health. * Hearing aids improve quality of life but do not cure dementia. * Cochlear implants can be life-changing for those with significant hearing loss. * Hearing loss can lead to social isolation and withdrawal. * It’s important to distinguish between hearing and understanding. * Technology is advancing to improve hearing solutions. * Protecting hearing in noisy environments is essential. * Regular hearing tests can help in early detection of hearing loss.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestBarbara E. Weinstein, Ph.D.An expert in hearing loss in older adults, Barbara E. Weinstein earned her Ph.D. in audiology with a minor in geriatrics from Columbia University. Weinstein has authored several textbooks, the most recent being Geriatric Audiology (2012). The author of close to one hundred articles and book chapters, she speaks nationally and internationally on a wide range of topics ranging from social isolation and hearing loss in the elderly, to senile dementia and hearing loss, to hearing aids and hearing health promotion and screening. She is a fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology (AAA), an Oyer Fellow, and a recipient of the Distinguished Achievement Award for the New York State Speech Language Hearing Association. She served as a panelist on the National Institutes of Health consensus panel on cochlear implants.
Weinstein developed the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly and its companion version, the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults, the most widely used scales to screen adults and older adults for hearing loss, as well as to measure outcomes. She is the recipient of local, state, and federal grants in excess of $750,000 on aging, workforce education, counseling older adults, and outreach.
The post Seekers of Meaning 3/28/2025: Insights on Hearing Loss with Dr. Barbara Weinstein appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Reb Chaya Lerner about her book, The Torah of Trauma. They explore the connections between ancient texts and modern trauma, discussing how the Torah can guide individuals through grief and healing. Chaya shares personal stories of trauma, the importance of family history, and her experiences as a rabbinic pastor in supporting those affected by tragedy. The conversation delves into societal traumas, the role of spirituality in healing, and the significance of finding good amidst suffering.
About the bookDiscover the transformative power of ancient wisdom in “Torah of Trauma.” While many criticize the Torah for being disconnected from contemporary life, the truth is that our ancestors faced many of the same struggles we encounter today.
In this groundbreaking work, Chaya Lerner, a seasoned clinical social worker and chaplain, draws on her rich experience to bridge the gap between timeless teachings and modern challenges. Through a unique blend of personal narratives and insights from Torah, Hasidic literature, mystical texts, and contemporary commentaries, she offers a profound exploration of healing.
Lerner addresses pressing issues such as sibling rivalry, family dysfunction, addiction, and abuse, providing readers with a thoughtful commentary that resonates deeply. This fresh perspective on Jewish texts invites readers to find solace and strength, offering practical guidance to navigate trauma and grief.
Join Chaya Lerner on a journey of healing and discovery, and unlock the wisdom of the Torah to transform your life today.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestReb Chaya Lerner, LCSWChaya Lerner received smicha from ALEPH Ordination Program in Jan 2021. She is the president of the Rabbinic Pastor Association. She has a License in Social Work. She has worked with Older adults particularly elderly Holocaust survivors.
Reb Chaya works as a therapist with Jewish Community Services. She was on the response team with the Surfside Collapse and she’s a grief and trauma therapist in private practice.
The post Healing Through Torah: Seekers of Meaning 3/21/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Zibby Owens about the new book of essays she edited, On Being Jewish Now, which emerged from the Artists Against Anti-Semitism initiative following the events of October 7, 2023.
They discuss the impact of these events on Jewish identity, the generational shifts in perspectives within the Jewish community, the importance of memory and community, and the hope for the future amidst rising antisemitism
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestZibby OwensZibby Owens is the bestselling author of Blank: A Novel, Bookends: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Literature, and children’s book Princess Charming, and the editor of three anthologies: On Being Jewish Now, Moms Don’t Have Time to Have Kids, and Moms Don’t Have Time To: A Quarantine Anthology. Her next novel Overheard is forthcoming.
She has contributed to Good Morning America, Katie Couric Media, Vogue, Oprah Daily, and other outlets, and has appeared on CNN, CBS This Morning, and many others. Vulture called her “NYC’s Most Powerful Book-fluencer.”
Zibby is the CEO and Founder of Zibby Media, dubbed “the Zibby-verse” by the L.A. Times, which includes the award-winning, daily podcast Totally Booked with Zibby, the boutique publishing house Zibby Publishing, Zibby’s Bookshop, an independent bookstore in Santa Monica, CA, Zibby’s Book Club, and Zibby Retreats, events for book lovers.
A graduate of Yale University and Harvard Business School, Zibby currently lives in New York with her four children ages 10 to 17 and her husband Kyle Owens, co-president and founder of Morning Moon Productions.
The post Discussing Jewish Identity with Zibby Owens – Seekers of Meaning 3/14/2025 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, technology industry veteran Laurie Orlov, founder of Aging and Health Technology Watch, discusses the evolving landscape of technology for older adults, the misconceptions surrounding their relationship with technology, and the importance of training and support.
Orlov shares insights on robotics, artificial intelligence, and wearables, emphasizing their potential to enhance the quality of life for seniors. The conversation highlights the need for faith communities to engage in technology training and the opportunities that lie ahead in the aging market.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLaurie M. OrlovLaurie M. Orlov, a tech industry veteran, writer, speaker, elder care advocate, is the founder of Aging and Health Technology Watch — market research, trends, blogs and reports that provide thought leadership, analysis and guidance about health and aging-related technologies and services that enable boomers and seniors to sustain and improve their quality of life.
In her previous career, Laurie spent many years in the technology industry, including 9 years at analyst firm Forrester Research. She has spoken regularly and delivered keynote speeches at forums, industry consortia, conferences, and symposia, most recently on the business of technology for boomers and seniors.
She advises large organizations as well as non-profits and entrepreneurs about trends and opportunities in the age-related technology market.
Her perspectives have been quoted in the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, Vox, Senior Housing News, CNN Health, and Consumer Reports. She has a graduate certification in Geriatric Care Management from the University of Florida and a BA in Music from the University of Rochester.
Laurie has provided testimony about technology at a Senate Aging Committee hearing and consulted to AARP. Advisory clients have included AARP, AOL, Argentum, Bose, CDW, Microsoft, Novartis, and Philips.
Her reports include: The User Experience Needs An Upgrade 2024, The Market Overview Technology for Aging 2024, The Future of AI and Older and Older Adults, The Future of Care Work and Older Adults 2023, The Future of Sensors and Older Adults 2022, Beyond DIY: The Future of Smart Homes and Older Adults 2021, and The Future of Wearables and Older Adults 2021.
Laurie has been named one of the Women Leaders in Voice, Top 50 Influencers in Aging by Next Avenue and one of the Women leading global innovation on AgeTech.
The post Laurie Orlov on Seekers of Meaning 3/7/2025: Tech for Seniors appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Adam Skrzynski discusses his work linking medicine, health, and Jewish spirituality.
In this conversation, Rabbi Address and Dr. Skrzynski explore the intersection of spirituality, particularly Judaism, and medicine. They discuss the importance of understanding patients’ spiritual needs, the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, and the potential for a more holistic approach to patient care. The dialogue emphasizes the sacred nature of the physician-patient relationship and the need for a cultural shift in healthcare to incorporate spiritual dimensions into medical practice.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Adam King SkrzynskiAdam King Skrzynski, a Detroit native, is an infectious disease physician specializing in HIV medicine, and is completing his Master of Public Health at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, with a focus on humanitarian and global health. He lives with his wife and three daughters in South Jersey outside of Philadelphia. He is a member of Congregation Kol Ami in Cherry Hill, NJ, where he serves on the Board of Trustees, a member of the Board of Directors of the Society for Humanistic Judaism, and a rabbinical candidate with the International Institute for Secular Humanistic Judaism. He is fascinated by the intersection of Judaism and medicine, and the potential for ancient Jewish principles of healing to be applied to modern medical practice. Adam can be reached at adam.king.skrzynski@gmail.com.
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/28/2025: Dr. Adam Skrzynski on medicine and health and its intersection with Jewish spirituality appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Dr. Rick Moody about his newest book, Climate Change in an Aging Society, about the intersection of climate change and aging.
They discuss the urgency of climate action, particularly for older generations, and the importance of local activism. Dr. Moody shares his journey into climate advocacy, emphasizing the interconnectedness of climate issues and the need for grassroots efforts. The conversation also explores the power of dreams in the second half of life and how they can guide us in taking action against climate change.
About the bookClimate Change in an Aging Society is the first book fully devoted to the impact of climate change on those who are old today — and those who will be old in decades to come. In doing so, Moody focuses on issues of critical importance: aging in place; health and age in a warming world; responsibility for the climate crisis; options for climate-conscious consumers; planning for investment for a green retirement; and opportunities for political action.
The number of Americans aged over 65 is projected to rise from 17% to 21%. By 2060 nearly one in four Americans will be 65 or older. By 2050, however, average temperatures in the USA could rise by as much as 3°C, and extreme weather events are likely to become more frequent and severe. Despite these alarming projections and the likelihood that climate change will cause serious health issues among the elderly, little attention has been devoted to the impact of climate change on this demographic. Employing a life-course perspective and a cross-generational approach, Moody assesses the impact of climate change on those who are old today and those who will be old in years to come. Challenging both climate complacency and climate defeatism, the book adopts as its clarion call, HERE NOW YOU HOPE.
Written in an engaging personal style with highlighting case studies of influential “eco-elders,” this urgent book will be of great interest to students and scholars with interests in climate change, gerontology, and environmental and social policy.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestHarry (Rick) Moody, Ph.D.Harry (Rick) Moody, Ph.D., retired as Vice President for Academic Affairs with AARP and is currently Visiting Faculty in the Creative Longevity and Wisdom Program at Fielding Graduate University. He previously served as Executive Director of the Brookdale Center on Aging at Hunter College and Chairman of the Board of Elderhostel (now Road Scholar). He is author of many scholarly articles, and books including co-author of Aging: Concepts and Controversies (Sage), a gerontology textbook now in its 10th edition. His book, The Five Stages of the Soul, was published by Doubleday and has been translated into seven languages worldwide. In 2011 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society on Aging and in 2008 he was named by Utne Reader Magazine as one of “50 Visionaries Who Are Changing Your World.” His new book, Climate Change in an Aging Society, was published this year by Routledge.
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/14/2025: Rick Moody on his book, “Climate Change in an Aging Society” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Lauren Litton, Vice President of Consulting Services for Sacred Spaces, about the organization’s mission to prevent and respond to sexual abuse and other abuses of power within Jewish institutions. They discuss the importance of safeguarding practices, the prevalence of elder abuse, and the ethical principles that guide their work. The conversation highlights the need for community awareness and proactive measures to create safe environments for all individuals, particularly the vulnerable.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLauren LittonLauren Litton (she/her) provides leadership and strategic guidance on the development and implementation of innovative and comprehensive programs, trainings, and resources.
She manages a high performing team of Sacred Spaces staff and consultants in order to deliver effective case consultations and impactful programming.
Guided by a commitment to human rights and social justice, Lauren has centered her work on promoting safety, well-being, and equity. She operated a consulting firm with specialized focus on domestic and sexual violence, civil and criminal justice reform, child welfare and juvenile justice, racial equity, and youth engagement.
Working with the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and a multitude of national organizations, Lauren has tremendous experience managing large-scale, multi-system change initiatives.
Previously, Lauren also worked as a program manager at the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, managed a legal services program for survivors of domestic violence and their children, and served as a county prosecutor.
She has been admitted to practice law in Ohio and Arizona, has authored numerous publications, and designed national conferences. Lauren received her undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and a juris doctorate from Case Western Reserve University.
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/7/2025: Lauren Litton, Jewish Sacred Spaces appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Abby Gilbert, the executive director of Tikvah/Empowering Adults with the Lived Experience of Mental Illness, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families dealing with mental health issues within the Jewish community.
They discuss the founding of Tikvah, its mission, and the challenges faced by families with loved ones experiencing mental health challenges. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health, the importance of community integration, and the organization’s efforts to engage younger generations and promote inclusivity. Abby shares insights on educational initiatives, the role of Jewish texts in mental health support, and the need for accessible resources for families.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestAbby GilbertAbby Gilbert joined Tikvah as the Executive Director in August 2021. She recently celebrated 40 years in the Jewish Communal Service field. Abby’s professional experience includes work as a synagogue program director, JCC director, Jewish Federation Program Manager and URJ Youth Initiative Professional. She has presented workshops on community organizing, experiential education and lay professional relations.
Abby’s volunteer roles in the community include board service at the Holocaust Awareness Museum and Education Center, KleinLife, Rotary Club of Northeast Philadelphia and Women of Reform Judaism. Abby holds a BA in Communication from Temple University where she also studied Public Administration. She has a Masters in Jewish Communal Service from Gratz College. Abby resides in Jenkintown, PA with her husband, Gary Freedman. Abby and Gary have two grown daughters.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/31/2025: Abby Gilbert from Tikvah discusses mental health issues across the Jewish community appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Reverend Jade Angelica about her updated book, Where Two Worlds Touch: The Spirit and Science of Alzheimer’s Caregiving.
They explore the emotional and scientific aspects of caregiving for Alzheimer’s patients, emphasizing the importance of emotional memory, innovative care models, and the need for acceptance and understanding in the caregiving process. The conversation also touches on the role of faith, ritual, and the potential impact of technology in caregiving, as well as the importance of holistic approaches to care.
About the BookA stunning 10th anniversary edition of Rev. Dr. Jade C. Angelica’s beloved memoir and pastoral guide for those who love someone with Alzheimer’s. With a new foreword by Dr. Stephen G. Post.
In 2001, Jade C. Angelica’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and thus began a surprising and transformative journey for both mother and daughter. From the early stages of the disease until her mother died, Angelica was dedicated to her mother’s care. In that time she learned about grief, relationship, the nature of selfhood, and the unexpected blessings of Alzheimer’s disease. She also found a purpose and embarked on her life’s work—to teach that people with Alzheimer’s can have meaningful lives, relationships, joy, and growth. Where Two Worlds Touch is both a memoir and a pastoral guide for those who love someone with Alzheimer’s. It offers heartfelt wisdom on preserving connection, self-care, and staying open to the possibility of grace.
In this updated 10th anniversary edition of her beloved book, Angelica adds more learnings from her years in Alzheimer’s ministry and important discoveries from the world of science. She draws on interfaith theological and spiritual resources, historical information, medical research, social context, and practical know-how from professional and family caregivers, as well as her own life’s story to provide a life-changing resource for those who need its gifts
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRev. Dr. Jade Angelica with her mother JeanneRev. Dr. Jade AngelicaRev. Dr. Jade Angelica is a writer, spiritual director, and dementia educator. She designs and leads workshops, presentations, services for religious communities, and professional trainings through Healing Moments for Alzheimer’s, the non-profit organization she founded in 2007.
Jade is the author of Where Two Worlds Touch: The Spirit and Science of Alzheimer’s Caregiving. Her articles about Alzheimer’s and dementia have appeared in The Journal of Pastoral Care & Counseling, Presence, The World, The National Catholic Reporter, The Huffington Post, Alzheimer’s & Dementia, and The Journal of Religion, Spirituality and Aging.
Her research-based workshop, Meeting Alzheimer’s: Learning to Communicate and Connect, was studied by the University of Iowa Department of Neurology and is featured in Dr. Stephen Post’s new book, Dignity for the Deeply Forgetful: How Caregivers Can Meet the Challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Jade’s education and training include a Masters of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School, a Certificate from the Shalem Institute Spiritual Guidance Program, a Doctor of Ministry in Faith, Health and Spirituality from Andover Newton Theological School, and a Diploma from Improv Boston University that deems her “perfectly OK not knowing what in the world is going on!”
Jade’s most important and most rewarding ministry, to date, has been caring for her mother, Jeanne, who died from Alzheimer’s in 2011.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/24/2025: Rev. Dr. Jade Angelica discusses her book on Alzheimer’s Caregiving appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Jessica Fein, author of Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes, discusses her daughter’s progressive degenerative illness and death.
They explore themes of resilience, the challenges of parenting a child with a rare disease, the adoption process, and the importance of community and self-care in the face of grief. Jessica shares her journey of acceptance, advocacy, and the profound love that defined her daughter Dahlia’s life, emphasizing the role of hope and faith in navigating life’s challenges.
About the Book from Amazon.com“A master class in how to be a person.” –Joanna Rakoff, bestselling author of *My Salinger Year*
“Astonishing…one of the most moving memoirs I’ve read.” –Caroline Leavitt, best-selling author of With or Without You and Days of Wonder.
In Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes, Jessica Fein takes readers on a powerful journey through the profound joys and heart-wrenching challenges of love and loss. At the tender age of five, Jessica’s daughter Dalia is diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the family’s life. Inspired by Dalia’s unyielding spirit and irrepressible zest for life, Jessica and her family embark on a remarkable odyssey of love, resilience, and self-discovery.
From the initial shock of diagnosis to the relentless battles against the ravages of disease, Jessica navigates the complexities of parenthood with unwavering courage and love. As each breath becomes a precious act of defiance against fate, Jessica learns to embrace the present moment with fierce determination, finding solace in the small joys that illuminate even the darkest of days.
But Breath Taking is more than a story of loss and grief; it’s a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the transformative power of love. Through laughter and tears, Jessica discovers the delicate balance between advocacy and acceptance, vulnerability and strength. Along the way, she confronts her deepest fears, finds unexpected allies, and discovers the resilience of the human heart.
With poignant insights and unflinching honesty, Jessica’s narrative transcends the boundaries of tragedy to offer a beacon of hope for anyone facing life’s most daunting challenges. Breath Taking is a masterclass in resilience, a testament to the enduring power of love, and a celebration of the extraordinary courage found in ordinary moments.
“More than an honest and humorous memoir, Breath Taking can be the guide star so many seek when life hands them more than they ever imagined they could endure.” –Daniel DeFabio, rare disease filmmaker and Co-founder of The Disorder Channel
“A story of relentless heartbreak met with wit, strength, and resilience.” –Jennifer Weisel Bailey, ELLE Magazine
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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About the GuestJessica FeinJessica Fein is an author, advocate, speaker, and podcast host. She’s a seasoned media contributor, having published more than 100 columns
and essays in The Boston Globe, HuffPost, The Mighty, Psychology Today, Zibby Mag, Kveller, and more.
Jessica is a working mother and a relentless warrior in the memory of her dynamic daughter, whom she lost to a rare disease in 2022. She balances writing, podcasting, motherhood, and advocacy with her work as a senior marketing executive at a global multi-billion dollar education company.
Jessica serves on the Board of Directors of MitoAction. She’s the mother of three, whom she and her husband adopted from Guatemala. They live in Framingham, Massachusetts with their quasi-service dog, who trained himself.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/17/2025: Jessica Fein, author of “Breath Taking,” book about her daughter’s illness appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jade Sank Ross of the Community Synagogue, Port Washington, NY, discusses her new book, To You I Call: Psalms Throughout Our Lives.
About the bookYou can purchase this book at the CCAR Press website, or at Amazon by clicking on the book image below.
Psalms have been part of Jewish ritual and liturgy for centuries, expressing praise to God, feelings of sorrow and longing, and much more. Rabbi Jade Sank Ross’s To You I Call is an invitation to make the ancient words of psalms part of our daily lives. The book pairs seventy-two psalms with a range of life moments, from giving birth to retirement to experiencing antisemitism-times of grief and gratitude, anticipation and despair, pain and relief. Rabbi Sank Ross’s original, authentic framing and Rabbi Richard N. Levy’s beautiful, contemporary translations let readers forge a deep and personal connection with the words of the Psalmist. With sensitivity and vulnerability, To You I Call brings the psalms to life for our lives, today.
Takeaways* The Psalms serve as a bridge between ancient texts and modern life. * Rabbi Jade Sank Ross aims to make Jewish tradition approachable for all. * Psalms reflect deep human emotions and experiences. * Caregiving can be a lonely journey, but Psalms offer solace. * Each Psalm can be connected to specific life situations. * The book includes kavanot, or intentions, for each Psalm. * Psalms can help individuals navigate feelings of loss and grief. * The writing process highlighted the importance of community support. * Rabbi Sank Ross emphasizes the need for emotional connection in spirituality. * The book serves as a resource for educators and community leaders.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jade Sank RossRabbi Jade Sank Ross grew up in Kinnelon, New Jersey. She studied Anthropology and International and Global Studies at Brandeis University, during which time she sang in Company B, an oldies acapella group, was an active leader in the Hillel Theater Group, and spent a semester abroad in Nepal. After completing her undergraduate degree, Rabbi Sank Ross studied at Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in New York, and was ordained as a rabbi in 2018.
During her rabbinic training, Rabbi Sank Ross earned a Certificate in Jewish Education Technology at The Davidson School of the Jewish Theological Seminary, and completed a Master’s Concentration in Israel Education from the iCenter. In addition, Rabbi Sank Ross served as student rabbi at the North Fork Reform Synagogue on Long Island, and as a chaplain intern at NYU Langone Medical Center in Manhattan. Most recently, Rabbi Sank Ross served as the Assistant Rabbi and Director of Education at Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester.
Rabbi Sank Ross also loves cooking and baking and lives with her husband, Rabbi Dan Ross, their daughter Adina, and their beloved dog, Rashi.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/10/2025: Rabbi Jade Sank Ross, author of new book on Psalms appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s encore episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with Professor Arnold Eisen, discussing his book, Seeking the Hiding God.
The conversation explores the motivations behind Eisen’s writing, the nature of personal theology, and the importance of active faith in Jewish practice. They delve into the significance of the Passover Seder, the role of history in shaping Jewish thought, and the influence of Abraham Joshua Heschel. The discussion also touches on feminist theology, the concept of plausibility structures in Jewish life, and the future of American Judaism, emphasizing a theology of hope and responsibility.
In Seeking the Hiding God, Arnold Eisen delves into the profound mystery of divine hiddenness, presenting a compelling exploration of how this central theological dilemma resonates within modern Jewish life. Through rigorous analysis and heartfelt reflection, Eisen tackles the poignant questions that arise when God seems absent, drawing on classical Jewish texts and contemporary thought. His insightful examination reveals how these ancient narratives continue to influence and illuminate the struggles and commitments of faith in today’s world.
With clarity and depth, Eisen challenges readers to reconsider the relationship between divine presence and human responsibility. He argues passionately for a dynamic engagement with theology, where communal rituals, personal experiences, and reasoned debate converge to shape a vibrant, living faith. This book is an essential read for anyone grappling with the complexities of sustaining belief in an often seemingly indifferent world, offering a fresh perspective on enduring religious questions and the pursuit of spiritual authenticity.
Takeaways from the Interview* Eisen felt compelled to write about his own beliefs after years of teaching others. * The process of writing revealed a deeper commitment to Judaism than he expected. * Jewish theology is often personal and narrative-driven, rather than systematic. * The Passover Seder serves as a reminder to take action and not be passive. * Engaging with the Torah is a conversation that evolves with personal experience. * Theology in Jewish life is often avoided due to historical trauma and modern secularism. * Heschel’s influence is profound, emphasizing the importance of social activism in faith. * The experience of God can be elusive, leading to feelings of guilt among seekers. * Feminist theology challenges traditional notions of God and expands the conversation. * Plausibility structures are essential for making Jewish ideas compelling in a secular world.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestArnold EisenArnold Eisen, Chancellor Emeritus and Professor of Jewish Thought at the Jewish Theological Seminary, is one of the world’s leading experts on modern Judaism, with particular focus on America and Israel. During his 13-year term as Chancellor, he spearheaded curricula innovations that transformed the education of rabbis, cantors, educators and undergraduates, and introduced innovations such as the Center for Pastoral Education and the Hendel Center for Social Justice. Eisen is the author of numerous scholarly and popular books and articles on the subjects of modern Jewish thought and practice. Before coming to JTS he served on the faculties of Columbia, Tel Aviv and Stanford universities. He is currently teaching and researching the history of Zionist thought.
The post ENCORE: Seekers of Meaning 12/13/2024: Arnold Eisen, author of “Seeking the Hiding God” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address and Shel Israel explore the intersection of aging and technology, discussing how older adults are adapting to technological advancements, the impact of the pandemic on technology adoption, and the future of robotics and artificial intelligence in caregiving. They emphasize the importance of choice in utilizing technology for enhancing life and community, while also addressing concerns about privacy and the moral implications of technological advancements.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestShel IsraelShel Israel is a writer and speaker on social media issues.
In 2009 he completed a book called Twitterville on business uses for Twitter, published in September 2009. He has contributed editorially to BusinessWeek, Dow Jones Co, and FastCompany.TV.
He co-authored with Robert Scoble the book Naked Conversations, How Blogs are Changing the Way Businesses Talk with Customers (John Wiley & Son, 2006); in 2014 he released another book with Scoble, titled Age of Context: Mobile, Sensors, Data and the Future of Privacy. In September 2015 he self-published Lethal Generosity: Contextual Technology and the Competitive Edge discussing why technology and social changes are causing companies to lose control of their brands as their customers gain it.
The three books are a trilogy that reveal the amazing changes technology has imposed on work and life over a ten-year-period. He has co-authored (with Robert Scoble) the book The Fourth Transformation: How Augmented Reality & Artificial Intelligence Will Change Everything (Patrick Brewster Press, Dec 7, 2016).
He publishes commentary on his own blog. He was the host of Global Neighbourhoods with Shel Israel, an online video blog series, which was produced by FastCompany.TV, covering enterprise and trends in social media.
In March 2017, he founded Transformation Group, LLC, a company “dedicated to helping big brands develop and implement Mixed Reality (MR) strategies”.
He lives in Sarasota, Florida, and frequently speaks on social media related topics.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/27/2024: Author Shel Israel discusses the intersection of aging and technology appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with journalist Liz Seegert about the multifaceted issues surrounding aging, public health, and the challenges faced by older adults today. They discuss the importance of prevention in healthcare, the burden of caregiving, economic implications of aging, societal attitudes towards older adults, and the future of social security and Medicare. Liz emphasizes the need for social connections and the importance of valuing older adults in society.
Takeaways* Aging is increasingly recognized as a public health issue. * Social isolation and loneliness significantly impact health outcomes. * Preventive care is essential for maintaining health as we age. * The healthcare system often prioritizes treatment over prevention. * Caregiving is a significant financial burden, especially for women. * Economic challenges are exacerbated by the aging population. * Societal attitudes towards aging need to shift to value older adults. * There is a critical shortage of geriatricians in the U.S. * Social connections are vital for mental and physical well-being. * Planning for retirement is crucial as life expectancy increases.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLiz SeegertLiz Seegert is an award-winning, independent journalist who has written about health for more than 30 years. Her primary beats currently include aging, social determinants of health, women’s health, and health policy. She’s the contributing editor on aging for the Association of Health Care Journalists, helping reporters better understand the topic’s many nuances. Her freelance work has appeared in dozens of national and local media outlets, including Fortune.com, The Wirecutter, TIME, Consumer Reports, The American Journal of Nursing, Medscape, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Liz also co-directs two fellowships, mentoring and training emerging journalists in aging and in health reporting. Visit her website at www.lizseegert.com to learn more.
Social:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lizseegert
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@lseegert
Bksy: lizseegert.bsky.social
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/20/2024: Liz Seegert, journalist specializing in issues related to aging appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages with Professor Arnold Eisen, discussing his book, Seeking the Hiding God.
The conversation explores the motivations behind Eisen’s writing, the nature of personal theology, and the importance of active faith in Jewish practice. They delve into the significance of the Passover Seder, the role of history in shaping Jewish thought, and the influence of Abraham Joshua Heschel. The discussion also touches on feminist theology, the concept of plausibility structures in Jewish life, and the future of American Judaism, emphasizing a theology of hope and responsibility.
In Seeking the Hiding God, Arnold Eisen delves into the profound mystery of divine hiddenness, presenting a compelling exploration of how this central theological dilemma resonates within modern Jewish life. Through rigorous analysis and heartfelt reflection, Eisen tackles the poignant questions that arise when God seems absent, drawing on classical Jewish texts and contemporary thought. His insightful examination reveals how these ancient narratives continue to influence and illuminate the struggles and commitments of faith in today’s world.
With clarity and depth, Eisen challenges readers to reconsider the relationship between divine presence and human responsibility. He argues passionately for a dynamic engagement with theology, where communal rituals, personal experiences, and reasoned debate converge to shape a vibrant, living faith. This book is an essential read for anyone grappling with the complexities of sustaining belief in an often seemingly indifferent world, offering a fresh perspective on enduring religious questions and the pursuit of spiritual authenticity.
Takeaways from the Interview* Eisen felt compelled to write about his own beliefs after years of teaching others. * The process of writing revealed a deeper commitment to Judaism than he expected. * Jewish theology is often personal and narrative-driven, rather than systematic. * The Passover Seder serves as a reminder to take action and not be passive. * Engaging with the Torah is a conversation that evolves with personal experience. * Theology in Jewish life is often avoided due to historical trauma and modern secularism. * Heschel’s influence is profound, emphasizing the importance of social activism in faith. * The experience of God can be elusive, leading to feelings of guilt among seekers. * Feminist theology challenges traditional notions of God and expands the conversation. * Plausibility structures are essential for making Jewish ideas compelling in a secular world.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestArnold EisenArnold Eisen, Chancellor Emeritus and Professor of Jewish Thought at the Jewish Theological Seminary, is one of the world’s leading experts on modern Judaism, with particular focus on America and Israel. During his 13-year term as Chancellor, he spearheaded curricula innovations that transformed the education of rabbis, cantors, educators and undergraduates, and introduced innovations such as the Center for Pastoral Education and the Hendel Center for Social Justice. Eisen is the author of numerous scholarly and popular books and articles on the subjects of modern Jewish thought and practice. Before coming to JTS he served on the faculties of Columbia, Tel Aviv and Stanford universities. He is currently teaching and researching the history of Zionist thought.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/13/2024: Arnold Eisen, author of “Seeking the Hiding God” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Lance J. Sussman, Ph.D., discusses volume two of his planned three-volume memoir, Portrait of a Reform Rabbi.
They discuss the challenges and changes in American Judaism, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of technology on community engagement, and the evolving role of the rabbinate. Rabbi Sussman shares insights on the concept of ‘Americanized Judaism’ and critiques contemporary Reform Judaism’s reliance on entertainment over substance. The conversation also touches on the future of Jewish education and community in a post-election landscape.
Takeaways* Rabbi Sussman emphasizes the importance of emotional availability in pastoral care. * The pandemic highlighted the need for spiritual proximity despite physical distancing. * Technology has transformed how Jewish communities engage and connect. * Americanized Judaism reflects a unique blend of American culture and Jewish identity. * Reform Judaism faces challenges in balancing tradition with contemporary trends. * The role of women in the rabbinate has significantly evolved over the years. * Rabbi Sussman critiques the entertainment-focused approach of contemporary Reform Judaism. * There is a growing hunger for substantive adult Judaism among older adults. * The future of American Judaism may require a deeper commitment to tradition. * The impact of recent events may lead to a renewed focus on Jewish education.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Lance J. Sussman, Ph.D.Since beginning his service as the eighth Senior Rabbi of KI in July 2001, Rabbi Sussman has had a transformative impact on the congregation and the greater Philadelphia region, as well as nationally, through his scholarship, leadership, and diverse community and educational activities. Rabbi Sussman is Chair of the Board of Governors and Professor of Jewish History. of Gratz College in Melrose Park, PA. Gratz College is the oldest non-denominational Jewish institute of higher learning in the world and is the home of the first online Ph.D. program in Holocaust and Genocide Studies.
Sussman serves as Senior Scholar of Roots of Reform Judaism and was a past national Chair of the CCAR Press, the publishing arm of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He formerly served as a Trustee of the Katz Center for Advanced Judaic Studies at the University of Pennsylvania and the American Jewish Historical Society; and is an active member of the Academic Advisory and Editorial Board of the American Jewish Archives (Cincinnati). He is the founding president of the Cheltenham Area Multifaith Council and a former Chair of the Delaware Valley Association of Reform Rabbis.
Sussman has been involved nationally in promoting Jewish-Muslim dialogue. In recent years, KI has intensified its Social Action programs and now offers monthly home cooked meals to the food insecure and runs a tutorial program at the Lowell School in Olney. Sussman has also helped developed an outreach program to residents of Federation Housing including an annual Hanukkah dinner.
Previously, Rabbi Sussman served as Chair of the Jewish Studies Department at Binghamton University-SUNY. He has taught courses in Jewish History at Princeton University, Hebrew Union College in New York City, Rutgers University, Temple University and Hunter College. Rabbi Sussman has appeared in several PBS specials on Religion in America and is currently working on a documentary on the Philadelphia Jewish experience with with film producer Sam Katz.
Rabbi Sussman has published numerous books and articles, including Isaac Lesser and the Making of American Judaism, and Sharing Sacred Moments (a collection of his sermons); he also served as an editor of Reform Judaism in America: A Biographical Dictionary and Sourcebook. Most recently, he published a memorial study of the 24 members of KI who fell in service to the United States from the Civil War to the present. His dynamic, illustrated lectures on a wide array of topics range from Biblical to American, military and world history to Jews in arts, sports, film and more.
As KI’s spiritual leader, Rabbi Sussman nurtures a diverse and accepting congregation that represents a broad constituency in its nearly 1,000-member families. KI welcomes interfaith and LGBQT+ families and demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusiveness and social action in its many programs. Among Rabbi Sussman’s many initiatives at KI was the development of the synagogue’s seven Core Values, which are proudly displayed on colorful banners for all to see at KI’s main entrance. Rabbi Sussman also created the KI Puppets, and enjoys teaching young children through his role as “Torah Turtle”—one of the puppets that appears regularly in KI’s preschool and at Tot Shabbat services. A pioneer in Visual Prayer, Sussman led the initiative to create PowerPoint art-liturgy at KI and install the complex technology to support the process. Nationally, Rabbi Sussman was Chair of the Press of the Central Conference of American Rabbis when it launched its new Mishkhan prayer book series and oversaw the production of the ground breaking project. For over fifteen years, Sussman has led monthly Shabbat services at the Rydal retirement community in Jenkintown.
A prolific historian, Rabbi Sussman writes on a wide range of topics from the history of Art in Judaism to Jews and the American Civil War. He enjoys researching the history of KI, which was the fourth congregation to be established by the expanding Jewish community of Philadelphia when it was founded in March 1847. In 1855 the previously Orthodox congregation adopted Reform Judaism, becoming the first progressive congregation in Philadelphia and only the fifth in the country to embrace the movement of radical experimentation. Sussman is now leading an effort to create a digital, online KI Archives, the first of its kind, called kipah.org with plans to post 100,000 historic documents online. He has also led numerous international trips focusing on Jewish heritage in Israel, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Poland, Holland and Cuba.
Under Rabbi Sussman’s leadership, KI has been at the cutting of the Reform movement while maintaining the core and essence of Jewish practice and values. In July of 2022, Rabbi Sussman begins a new chapter at KI as Rabbi Emeritus.
Rabbi Sussman and his wife, Liz, Director of the KI Preschool and founder of KI’s Shir Joy Choir, share the joy of raising their children Benjamin & Kelly, Joshua & Sheri, Micah, Judah and Chana. The Sussmans have two grandchildren, Sophie and Charlotte.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/6/2024: Rabbi Lance Sussman on volume two of his book series, “Portrait of a Reform Rabbi” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, we present a rebroadcast of our 10/18/2024 program with Florida Elder Law attorney Shannon Miller, who discusses the wide range of online scams and frauds targeting seniors and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Summary of the conversation prepared with assistance from artificial intelligenceIn this episode, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with elder care attorney Shannon Miller about the alarming rise of scams targeting older adults. They discuss the statistics surrounding elder exploitation, the psychological and financial vulnerabilities of seniors, and the sophisticated tactics used by scammers. Shannon emphasizes the importance of awareness, preventative measures, and community education to combat this growing issue. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in facilitating scams and the legal avenues available for victims.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Amazon Music About the GuestShannon M. Miller, BCSSHANNON M. MILLER, B.C.S., ESQ., was born in Davis, California and was raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. Shannon relocated to Gainesville, Florida in 1994.
Shannon received her B.A. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1991 and her J.D. from the University of Maryland Law School in Baltimore, Maryland. She was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps in 1992. She was admitted to The Florida Bar in 1994 and admitted to the U.S. District Court Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts in 1996. She became a Florida Bar Board Certified Specialist in Elder law in 2011.
In 2005, Shannon was certified as a Circuit Civil Mediator and Arbitrator by the Supreme Court of Florida. Shannon’s experiences within her own family inspired her interest in protecting seniors and their families. Protecting seniors’ independence, while making sure their assets are protected, and giving seniors the best possible death is her life’s work, and the main reason she became an elder law attorney.
She is a member of: the Florida Bar, the American Inns of Court, the Elder Law Section of The Florida Bar, the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, the Eighth Judicial Circuit Bar Association, and the North Central Florida Senior Advocacy Network. Shannon served as President of the Florida Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and Executive of the Elder Law Section. Shannon is a frequent speaker at the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys, Hospice, Florida State Guardianship Association, Florida Ombudsman, the Alzheimer’s Association, and various law enforcement agencies. She has been certified through the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys and is an active member of the Life Care Planning Law Firm Association.
Shannon’s special interests include yoga, St. Augustine Beach, animals, traveling, and investing.
Her practice areas include: Guardianships, Probate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning, Life Care Planning, Medicaid Planning, Exploitation Litigation, Mediation, Arbitration, Special Needs Planning, and Probate and Trust Litigation.
The post Encore broadcast: Seekers of Meaning 11/29/2024: Elder Law Attorney Shannon Miller on Scams and Frauds Targeting Seniors appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Chaplain Barry Pitegoff, BCC, of Neshama-The National Association of Jewish Chaplains, and Missy Stolfi from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention join Rabbi Address to discuss their upcoming virtual webinar, “Through a Jewish Lens,” for survivors of suicide victims. The webinar takes place Sunday, November 24 from noon to 2 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
This conversation focuses on the critical issue of suicide awareness and prevention within the Jewish community, featuring insights from experts on the statistics, the impact of loneliness, the role of faith leaders, and the introduction of the 988 crisis lifeline. The discussion also highlights the upcoming program, ‘Through a Jewish Lens: Hope and Healing for Suicide Loss Survivors,’ aimed at providing support and resources for those affected by suicide loss.
This year’s program will feature recorded remarks from suicide loss survivor and mental health advocate Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-8) and Ivan Maisel, a longtime ESPN writer and author, who is also a survivor of suicide loss. The program will include live reflections and storytelling from loss survivors across the country and small group discussions.
You can get more information and registration information here.
Takeaways* Suicide is a multi-generational challenge affecting various demographics. * Older adults face unique risks due to life transitions and isolation. * Marriage can act as a protective factor against suicide. * Faith leaders need more training to support those in crisis. * The 988 crisis lifeline is a vital resource for mental health emergencies. * Community support is essential for those grieving suicide loss. * Shame and guilt often accompany suicide loss, hindering open conversations. * Programs like ‘Through a Jewish Lens’ provide necessary support and healing. * The pandemic has exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsChaplain Barry E. Pitegoff, BCCChaplain Pitegoff is Staff Chaplain at Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis, NY, serves as the NAJC Volunteer Webmaster (a/k/a “najcwebmaven”), and is certified by the Red Cross in Disaster Spiritual Care Services. Chaplain Pitegoff transformed 25+ years of volunteer chaplaincy at hospices and hospitals into professional chaplaincy with a BCC from NAJC. Chaplain Pitegoff holds a BBA in Statistics from Baruch College / CUNY, an MBA from Adelphi University, and graduate studies in Theology and the Behavioral Sciences at the University of South Florida. Chaplain Pitegoff is the Chair of the Planning Committee for “Through a Jewish Lens,” a day of virtual support for Jewish survivors of suicide loss, a project of AFSP, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Missy Stolfi, M. Ed.Missy Stolfi is a dedicated nonprofit professional with a strong commitment to mental health advocacy. Currently serving as the Area Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in the Capital and North Country regions of New York, she focuses on promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiatives.
With a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from the University at Buffalo, Missy is passionate about social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and community engagement. She is also an enthusiastic volunteer and a proud aunt, known for her love of animals and support for local sports teams, including the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees.
In addition to her role at AFSP, Missy serves on the board of Compass House, an emergency shelter and resource center, further demonstrating her commitment to community service and support for vulnerable populations.
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/22/2024: Navigating Suicide Awareness in the Jewish Community appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Lara Moretti, director of family support services for the Gift of Life organ donation program, discusses the critical importance of organ donation.
They discuss the evolving awareness and acceptance of organ donation within the Jewish community and beyond, the processes involved in organ donation, and the importance of family conversations about end-of-life decisions. Moretti emphasizes the significance of understanding organ donation as a modern mitzvah and addresses common myths surrounding organ donation and transplantation. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced by families and the support provided by organizations like Gift of Life.
Key Takeaways* Awareness of organ donation has significantly increased in the Jewish community. * All major religions support organ donation as a good deed. * Age does not disqualify someone from being a donor; evaluation is case by case. * The success rates of organ transplants have improved dramatically over the years. * The organ donation process involves multiple steps and requires timely communication with families. * Clergy play a vital role in educating their congregants about organ donation and providing spiritual support to families during crises. * Outreach to diverse communities is essential for effective organ donation education. * Myths about organ donation, such as age and personal connections, need to be addressed. * There are no costs to the donor’s family; the recipient’s insurance covers transplant costs. * Support for grieving families is a critical aspect of the organ donation process.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLara S. Moretti, LSW, FTLara S. Moretti, LSW, FT has presented to hospitals, schools and various professional groups about grief, donation and transplantation in her role as Director, Family Support Services for Gift of Life Donor Program in Philadelphia, PA. Lara has been with Gift of Life since 2003. She has presented to numerous national organizations, including the Hospice Foundation of America, Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO), The Organization for Donation and Transplant Professionals (NATCO), Transplant Recipients International Organization(TRIO), Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC), the Society for Transplant Social Workers, Transplant Games of America and for the Gift of Life Institute. Several times a year, she leads a didactic, “Communicating with a Grieving Family” for all new clinical staff at Gift of Life Donor Program. Lara obtained her BS in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) and her MS in Social Work from Columbia University (New York, NY). Lara is a licensed social worker in the state of Pennsylvania and is a Fellow in through the ADEC.
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/15/2024: The Vital Importance of Organ Donation, with Lara Moretti from the Gift of Life program appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Jen Rivera, VP of Membership Engagement, Programs, & Thought Leadership at the American Society on Aging, discusses the organization’s advocacy for seniors and professionals who work with seniors.
They discuss the organization’s role in addressing the challenges of aging in America, including the impact of technology, the importance of community, and the need to combat ageism. Jen highlights the various resources ASA provides to its members, the challenges in the geriatrics workforce, and the importance of health equity. They also touch on cultural perspectives on aging and the organization’s future goals in advocacy and education.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJen RiveraJen Rivera is Vice President of Membership Engagement, Programs, and Thought Leadership at the American Society on Aging. Her focus is on developing effective strategies to enhance member satisfaction, advance programmatic initiatives, and shape the intellectual direction of the organization, in collaboration with the education and membership team. With more than 10 years’ experience helping organizations rethink their membership models to deliver a consistent return on investment for their members, she has developed a deep understanding of building and sustaining relationships with stakeholders and implementing growth strategies for organizations.
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/8/2024: American Society on Aging’s Jen Rivera on advocating for aging Americans appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, attorney and author Norman Shabel discusses his latest book, Four Women.
The conversation delves into the motivations behind the book, the strength and resilience of its characters, and the historical context of the story set in 1968 Miami. Themes of survival, moral questions surrounding justice, and the complexity of heroism are explored, highlighting the personal connections Shabel has with the characters and the broader implications of their struggles.
Four Women tells the saga of four brave and very different women who battle real estate developers and the city of Miami Beach while trying to save their home during the unscrupulous heyday of real estate development in South Beach in 1968.
Helen, a survivor of Auschwitz and Rachel, who led 2,500 Jewish children out of Germany during World War II, along with their defender, a 36-year-old alcoholic lawyer, do battle against a prejudicial judge and a defense lawyer who politically controls the judicial system of Miami.
It is a novel about people who have seen the dark side of the world and now strive for a life of hope and redemption.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestNorman ShabelBrooklyn-born, successful New Jersey class-action attorney turned author Norman Shabel has been driven to write ever since he can remember. By the time he was in his twenties he had written several novels that ended up stuffed in drawers as he launched his legal career, married and had a family. To date Norman has written 7 plays and 8 novels, some written in long-hand, hunched over his desk while waiting for a jury verdict to come in and all dealing with either crime, relatable family dynamics or both.
“Courts are inherently dramatic places, and I guess I saw that connection between law and theater before I even realized it,” Norman said recently. His earnest belief is that lawyers need to be good storytellers to engage juries in the “plot” of a case. “You need to hold the interest of a jury if you’re going to win them over, much like the arc of a play or the plot of a novel. If the juror or the reader or audience member gets bored you lose them very quickly. If you don’t capture them in the first 20 minutes you may as well go home – and I never like to lose a case or an audience. ”
To date, three of Norman’s plays have been produced off Broadway in NYC, Philadelphia and multiple theaters in South Florida, where he now resides for part of the year. The productions have received wonderful reviews and there are plans underway for the remainder of the plays to be produced within the next two years. Manuscripts of the plays are available by request.
Norman’s novels are mostly “terrific, fast-paced reads about the dark side of law enforcement and the judiciary” according to Judge Andrew P. Napolitano. He writes, as only an experienced trial lawyer can, about the ups and downs of the legal system, maintaining the drama of the story without sacrificing the realities of the of the structure. All of his books can be purchased on Amazon and other digital booksellers.
According to Norman, “I’m doing two things that both give my life meaning, I’m a very fortunate man.”
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/1/2024: Norman Shabel, attorney and author of “Four Women,” a crime mystery. appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
In this video, Rabbi Edmond Weiss examines Parasha B’reisheet.
The post Rabbi Edmond Weiss looks at Parashat B’reisheet (Video) appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Florida Elder Law attorney Shannon Miller discusses the wide range of online scams and frauds targeting seniors and steps you can take to protect yourself.
Summary of the conversation prepared with assistance from artificial intelligenceIn this episode, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with elder care attorney Shannon Miller about the alarming rise of scams targeting older adults. They discuss the statistics surrounding elder exploitation, the psychological and financial vulnerabilities of seniors, and the sophisticated tactics used by scammers. Shannon emphasizes the importance of awareness, preventative measures, and community education to combat this growing issue. The conversation also touches on the role of technology in facilitating scams and the legal avenues available for victims.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Amazon Music About the GuestShannon M. Miller, BCSSHANNON M. MILLER, B.C.S., ESQ., was born in Davis, California and was raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. Shannon relocated to Gainesville, Florida in 1994.
Shannon received her B.A. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1991 and her J.D. from the University of Maryland Law School in Baltimore, Maryland. She was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps in 1992. She was admitted to The Florida Bar in 1994 and admitted to the U.S. District Court Southern, Middle, and Northern Districts in 1996. She became a Florida Bar Board Certified Specialist in Elder law in 2011.
In 2005, Shannon was certified as a Circuit Civil Mediator and Arbitrator by the Supreme Court of Florida. Shannon’s experiences within her own family inspired her interest in protecting seniors and their families. Protecting seniors’ independence, while making sure their assets are protected, and giving seniors the best possible death is her life’s work, and the main reason she became an elder law attorney.
She is a member of: the Florida Bar, the American Inns of Court, the Elder Law Section of The Florida Bar, the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, the Eighth Judicial Circuit Bar Association, and the North Central Florida Senior Advocacy Network. Shannon served as President of the Florida Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and Executive of the Elder Law Section. Shannon is a frequent speaker at the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys, Hospice, Florida State Guardianship Association, Florida Ombudsman, the Alzheimer’s Association, and various law enforcement agencies. She has been certified through the National Network of Estate Planning Attorneys and is an active member of the Life Care Planning Law Firm Association.
Shannon’s special interests include yoga, St. Augustine Beach, animals, traveling, and investing.
Her practice areas include: Guardianships, Probate & Trust Administration, Estate Planning, Life Care Planning, Medicaid Planning, Exploitation Litigation, Mediation, Arbitration, Special Needs Planning, and Probate and Trust Litigation.
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/18/2024: Elder Law Attorney Shannon Miller on Scams and Frauds Targeting Seniors appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This video series is produced by Hanan Harchol, who has contributed videos here previously. These animations were created with generous funding by The Covenant Foundation.
The post The Importance of HAPPINESS during Challenging Times appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address offers a special message for this year’s High Holy Days observance.
Summary prepared with AI assistanceIn this commentary, Rabbi Richard Address discusses the themes of the High Holidays and shares insights on aging and spirituality. He explores the concepts of acceptance and surrender, holding on and letting go, and the power of choice in shaping our lives. Rabbi Address emphasizes the importance of community and face-to-face interactions as we age and highlights the significance of the sacred and divine in our lives. He concludes with a prayer for peace and well-being in the year ahead.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Hazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro, cantor of Congregation Beth El in Voorhees, NJ, discusses the spiritual significance of music in the high holiday liturgy.
Summary of conversation assisted by AIRabbi Richard Address engages with Hazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro to explore the profound impact of sacred music in Jewish tradition, particularly during the High Holidays. They discuss the emotional connection that music fosters within the community, the legacy of musical practices, and the evolution of Jewish music as a melting pot of cultural influences. Alisa shares her personal journey and the importance of creating a meaningful prayer experience that resonates with congregants of all ages. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of being a cantor, the significance of improvisation in prayer, and the hope for healing and connection in a broken world.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestHazzan Alisa Pomerantz-BoroHazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro grew up on Mercer Island, Washington, in a rabbinic home, instilled with a love of Judaism and music. From an early age, she knew she would continue the long family line of rabbis and cantors.
She was ordained as a Hazzan and earned her degree in Sacred Jewish Music from the Cantors Institute of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York, where she was awarded the Jacobson Memorial Prize in Hazzanut. She was selected as the speaker when she received her honorary Doctorate from JTS. She holds a B.A. in Near Eastern Studies and Music from the University of Washington.
Hazzan Pomerantz-Boro has served as Beth El’s cantor since 2004. For 13 years before that, she served at Tifereth Israel Synagogue in San Diego, California. While in Cantorial school, she broke new ground as the Assistant Cantor at New York’s Park Avenue Synagogue, that shul’s first female member of the clergy. She was among the first 14 women to be inducted into the Cantors Assembly in May 1991, an international organization she ultimately served as President.
Among numerous recognitions, Hazzan Pomerantz-Boro received the 2011 Hiddur Mitzvah Award presented by Masorti Olami/World Council of Conservative Synagogues to “pillars of leadership in the Conservative Movement”. She was the first recipient of The Cantors Assembly Hazon – Visionary Award and most recently received Hadassah’s coveted Myrtle Wreath Award.
Hazzan and her husband, Stephen, have two beautiful children, Rebecca and Joshua. She hopes and prays that by lifting our voices together, we will continue to build a better world.
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/27/2024: High Holy Days Music with Hazzan Alisa Pomerantz-Boro appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, poet and liturgist Alden Solovy discusses his latest book of poems, Enter These Gates: Meditations for the Days of Awe.
Summary of the conversation generated with artificial intelligenceIn this conversation, Alden Solovy discusses his new book, ‘Enter These Gates: Meditations for the Days of Awe.’ He talks about the inspiration behind the book, which was the October 7, 2023 Hamas assault on Israel and subsequent war. Alden shares some of his powerful poems and meditations from the book, including ‘Ela Azkara’ and ‘At the Gates.’ He also discusses the themes of history, memory, and mortality in his writings. The conversation concludes with a reading of Alden’s poem, ‘Walking Toward Sunset,’ which reflects on the journey of life and the acceptance of mortality.
About the BookEnter These Gates is a High Holy Day companion for our times, with more than one hundred new poems, prayers, and meditations for Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur.
Poet-liturgist Alden Solovy draws from his unique spirit to blend today’s struggles and joys with classic themes, layering a contemporary voice into beloved motifs. Enter These Gates is a vital resource for individual prayer, study, and communal worship. Themes include confession, repentance, forgiveness, and memory, as well as frailty, seeking holiness, and what Solovy calls “the ancient journey.” A companion to the machzor, Enter These Gates offers a fresh yet deeply rooted approach to heightening our experience of the Days of Awe.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the Guest(Michele Chabin Photo)Alden SolovyAlden Solovy is a modern day piytan, a traveling poet/preacher/teacher who uses Torah and verse to engage and inspire.
Alden embodies the intersection of scholarship and heart. A new voice for ancient yearnings, his writings resonate with the soul and his presence is sought after in Jewish spiritual spaces around the world.
A liturgist, lyricist, and educator, Alden offers a fresh Jewish voice, challenging the boundaries between poetry, meditation, personal growth, and prayer. His writing was transformed by multiple tragedies, marked in 2009 by the sudden death of his wife from catastrophic brain injury.
Solovy’s teaching spans from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Jerusalem to Limmud and Leo Baeck College in the UK, and synagogues throughout North America.
He is the author of four volumes from CCAR Press: These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah (2023), This Grateful Heart: Psalms and Prayers for a New Day (2017), This Joyous Soul: A New Voice for Ancient Yearnings (2019), and This Precious Life: Encountering the Divine with Poetry and Prayer (2021).
The Jerusalem Post called his writing “soulful, meticulously crafted.” Huffington Post Religion said “…the prayers reflect age-old yearnings in modern-day situations.”
Solovy made Aliyah to Israel in 2012, where he hikes, writes, teaches, and learns. His work has appeared more than 25 collections, including Prophetic Voices: Renewing and Reimagining Haftorah (CCAR Press, 2023), Mishkan R’Fuah: Where Healing Resides (CCAR Press, 2012), L’chol Z’man v’Eit: For Sacred Moments (CCAR Press, 2015), Mishkan HaNefesh: Machzor for the Days of Awe (CCAR Press, 2015), and Gates of Shabbat, Revised Edition (CCAR Press, 2016).
He is a three-time winner of the Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism. His writing appears on Ritualwell.org, ReformJudaism.org, Ravblog.ccar.org, TimesofIsrael.com and tobendlight.com. Alden is also the founder of ManKind Project Israel.
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/20/2024: Poet Alden Solovy discusses his latest book, “Enter These Gates” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jill Maderer and Rabbi Jack Paskoff reflect on the meaning of the High Holidays this year in the wake of the October 7 Hamas massacre of 1,200 Israelis and as antisemitism surges in the United States and around the world.
Summary of the conversation generated with AIThe conversation focuses on the upcoming High Holidays and the challenges and unique aspects of preparing for them. The two rabbis discuss their personal preparations and the spiritual significance of this time of year. They also address the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the need for open dialogue and understanding. The conversation touches on the importance of joy and connection during the holidays, as well as the impact of the pandemic on synagogue attendance and the opportunities it presents for reaching a wider audience. The rabbis express their hopes for the coming year, including peace, connection, and understanding.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Jill MadererJill L. Maderer is the Senior Rabbi at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, where she has served since her ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, NY in 2001.
Rabbi Maderer currently serves on the Board of the Interfaith Philadelphia; in the past she has served as: president of the Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia, chairperson of the Center City Kehillah, a member of the Religious Leaders Council (multi-faith) of Greater Philadelphia, as a Mussar Institute instructor training Reform rabbis, as faculty at URJ Camp Harlam, and she has served on the Central Conference of American Rabbis’ Task Force for Experience of Women in the Rabbinate.
Rabbi Jack PaskoffJack Paskoff is in his 32nd year as the rabbi of Congregation Shaarai Shomayim in Lancaster, PA. During that time, the congregation has grown in significant ways in terms of membership, childhood and adult learning, and social justice work.
To many, Lancaster seems an unlikely place for meaningful Jewish life, but this community of 330 families has made its presence known throughout Pennsylvania and throughout the Reform movement. Jack often addresses social justice issues in his congregation, and, through his various community activities, has become a voice of Tikkun Olam throughout Lancaster County having participated in and launched projects related to homeless, poverty, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant resettlement. He regularly speaks about this work in a column in the local newspaper and through numerous speaking engagements.
Jack is very involved in Reform Judaism’s youth and camping programs. A number of graduates of the congregation have gone on to active involvement in Jewish life.
Jack has been married to Risa for 38 years. He is the father of Ari (married to Danielle) and Gadi, and recently became the proud Saba of Seth.
Jack is a native New Yorker, graduating from Brandeis University, before being ordained at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Prior to arriving in Lancaster, Jack was the associate rabbi at the Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple in New Brunswick, NJ.
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/13/2024: Rabbis Reflect on The High Holidays appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz discusses his latest book, 45 Great Philosophers and What They Mean for Judaism.
AI-Generated Summary of the ConversationRabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz discusses his book and the importance of engaging with diverse philosophical perspectives. He emphasizes the value of learning from other cultures and voices, and how Judaism has always been in dialogue with different philosophies throughout history. The conversation explores the concept of Jewish philosophy and its relationship with other philosophical traditions, such as Confucianism and existentialism. The role of women philosophers in Jewish thought is also highlighted. The discussion touches on the decline of intellectualism in contemporary American Jewish society and the need to revive the exploration of ideas and deep questions.
About the BookIn this new forty-five-chapter series, Rabbi Shmuly explores forty-five of the most influential philosophers throughout history and how Jewish ideas might engage with each of the philosophers and their philosophical projects. At times, Judaism may need to reject harmful, foreign ideas. Other times, Judaism may need to adapt, integrate, and expand. There are many other approaches we’ll see of how Jewish thought can engage with other philosophies as well. In this exciting new exploration, we learn about Jewish intellectual history and what it means for us today.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Dr. Shmuly YanklowitzRabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz has twice been named one of America’s Top Rabbis by Newsweek and has been named by The Forward as one of the 50 most influential Jews and one of The Most Inspiring Rabbis in America.
Rabbi Yanklowitz is the author of nineteen books on Jewish ethics and his writings have appeared in outlets as diverse as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, the Guardian, and the Atlantic among many other secular and religious publications. He has served as speaker at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland and a Rothschild Fellow in Cambridge, UK.
Rav Shmuly received a Masters from Harvard University and his Doctorate from Columbia University. He serves as the President & Dean of Valley Beit Midrash (Jewish learning center), the Founder & President of Uri L’Tzedek (the Orthodox Social Justice movement), the Founder and CEO of Shamayim (Jewish animal advocacy), and the Founder and President of YATOM, (Jewish foster and adoption network). Rabbi Shmuly, his wife Shoshana, and their four children live in Scottsdale, Arizona. They are also foster parents.
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/6/2024: Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz Discusses His New Book of 45 Great Philosophers appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s encore broadcast of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Elissa Strauss discusses her new book, When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others.
In this “urgent and necessary book” (Rebecca Traister, New York Times bestselling author), journalist Elissa Strauss explores the powerful role caring for others plays in our individual and communal lives, weaving together research and stories from parents and caregivers with a feminist bent.
Behind our current caregiving crisis, in which a broken system has left parents and caregivers exhausted, sits a fierce addiction to independence. But what would happen if we started to appreciate dependency, and the deep meaning of one person caring for another? If we start to care about care?
With a curiosity and desire to understand more fully one of humanity’s most profound and essential relationships, journalist Elissa Strauss she interrogates our societal obsession with going it alone and poses a challenge to let ourselves be transformed by the act of caregiving. When You Care weaves historical anecdotes and science with conversations with parents and caregivers to the young, old, disabled, ill, and more, revealing a rich array of insights about how care shapes us on the inside and the outside, for the better.
Care is a long-ignored force in our collective and political lives, as well as a deeply philosophical, spiritual, and psychologically potent experience. Moreso, an embrace of care by both women and men will lead to a more gender equitable future and help us reimagine what it means to be productive and live a meaningful life. “A deeply researched—and deeply felt—exploration of the beautiful truth about care: that we find, feed, and know ourselves through our relationships” (Judith Warner, New York Times bestselling author).
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestElissa StraussElissa Strauss has been writing about the politics and culture of parenting and caregiving for over fifteen years. Her work is featured in publications such as the Atlantic, the New York Times, Glamour, ELLE, TheWeek.com, and more. Previously, she contributed to CNN.com and Slate, where her cultural criticism about motherhood was showcased on DoubleX. Her book, When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others, is available from Gallery Books.
In addition to writing, Strauss is involved in curation and cultural programming. She holds the position of associate director of LABA: A Laboratory for Jewish Culture, a global artist incubator program that draws inspiration from ancient Jewish texts to foster new cultural creations and dialogues. She is also the artistic director of the LABA hub in the Bay Area and serves as the senior curator for the 2024 California Jewish Open at the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco.
Strauss resides in Oakland, California, with her husband and their two sons.
The post 8/30/2024 ENCORE BROADCAST, Seekers of Meaning 7/12/2024: Elissa Strauss, author of “When You Care,” book about caregiving appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s encore broadcast of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, discusses her new book, From Time to Time, Journeys in the Jewish Calendar.
Time is fundamental to the human experience, and in Judaism it is even more—time is sanctified. Understanding the Jewish calendar is thus essential for fully comprehending Judaism. In From Time to Time, Rabbi Dalia Marx, PhD, presents a fascinating exploration of the treasures of the Jewish year. The book artfully blends traditional and contemporary perspectives on each Hebrew month and its holidays. Rabbi Marx’s insights are paired with striking illustrations; each month also features a diverse selection of poetry, prayers, and songs. Taking a distinctively Israeli, feminist, and progressive approach, From Time to Time is a comprehensive, indispensable companion you will want to return to each season.
Download a study guide from the CCAR Press website.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D.Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., is the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, and teaches in various academic institutions in Israel and Europe.
Marx, a tenth generation Jerusalemite, earned her doctorate at the Hebrew University and her rabbinic ordination at HUC-JIR in Jerusalem and Cincinnati in 2002. She is involved in various research projects and is active in promoting liberal Judaism in Israel. Marx writes for academic and popular journals and publications.
Marx is the lead editor of the Israeli Reform siddur, Tfillat HaAdam (2020). Her book From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar (Yeditos Sfarim 2018), was translated to several languages, and is available in English from the CCAR Press.
She is the author of When I Sleep and When I Wake: On Prayers between Dusk and Dawn (Yediot Sfarim, 2010, in Hebrew), A Feminist Commentary of the Babylonian Talmud (Mohr Siebeck, 2013, in English), About Time: Journeys in the Jewish-Israeli Calendar (Yediot Sfarim, 2018, in Hebrew) and the co-editor of a few books. See Marx’s website.
Marx lives in Jerusalem with her husband, Roly Zyblersztein, Ph.D. They have three children.
The post 8/23/2024 ENCORE BROADCAST, Seekers of Meaning 5/31/2024: Rabbi Dalia Marx, author of “From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s encore presentation of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, discusses the rising incidence of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment in the United States and describes some of the programs in Jewish education and interfaith understanding supported by the Center.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jonah Dov PesnerRabbi Jonah Dov Pesner (he/him) serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and has led the Religious Action Center since 2015. Rabbi Pesner also serves as Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism, a position to which he was appointed in 2011. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, he is an inspirational leader and tireless advocate for social justice.
Rabbi Pesner’s work focuses on encouraging Jewish communities to reach across lines of race, class, and faith while campaigning for social justice. In 2006, he founded Just Congregations (now incorporated into the Religious Action Center), which engaged clergy, professional, and volunteer leaders in interfaith social justice efforts. Rabbi Pesner was a primary leader in the Massachusetts campaign for health care access that has provided coverage to thousands and became a model for nationwide reform. Over the course of his career, he has also led and supported campaigns for racial justice, economic opportunity, immigration reform, LGBTQ+ equality, human rights, and a variety of other causes. He is dedicated to building bridges to collectively confront antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate.
Rabbi Pesner is a Visiting Scholar at Harvard University, speaks regularly on college campuses, has trained students on all four campuses of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and gives speeches in interfaith and secular venues all over the world. Rabbi Pesner serves as a board member of the NAACP, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the National Religious Partnership for the Environment, and the New England Center for Children. He is a member of the Faith-Based Security Advisory Council for the Department of Homeland Security, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation Solidarity Council on Racial Equity and the Leadership Team of the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable. He has served as a scholar for the Wexner Foundation, The Chautauqua Institution, American Jewish World Service, the Nexus USA Summit, and Combined Jewish Philanthropies.
Rabbi Pesner was the co-editor of “Moral Resistance and Spiritual Authority: Our Jewish Obligation to Justice,” wrote the afterword to the newly published “Social Justice Torah Commentary,” and is a widely-published author (view the full list).
Ordained at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1997, Rabbi Pesner was a congregational rabbi at Temple Israel in Boston, Massachusetts and at Temple Israel in Westport, Connecticut. A graduate of Wesleyan University and the Bronx High School of Science, Rabbi Pesner is married to Dana S. Gershon, an attorney. They have four daughters: Juliet, Noa, Bobbie, and Cate.
View Rabbi Pesner’s writings, remarks and media appearances
The post 8/16/2024 ENCORE BROADCAST, Seekers of Meaning 6/14/2024: Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Shulamit Sofia, a modern elder with many decades of therapeutic experience in supporting others discusses her new book, From Oy to Joy: A Soul Journey to Making the Rest of Your Life the Best of Your Life.
From Oy to Joy is your guide to a more satisfying, meaningful, and joyous life! You will learn to elevate and broaden your perspective on life, to focus on the good, to accept what you can’t change, and to take the necessary steps to improve your circumstances in whatever way you can.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestShulamit SofiaShulamit Sofia is a modern elder with many decades of therapeutic experience in supporting others. She has a BA in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s in clinical social work from Columbia University, and did post graduate training with The National Institute of Mental Health in personality development and community consultation. A spiritual seeker since childhood, she has also received training in meditation and mystical practices.
Her academic studies, clinical experience, and spiritual training have enhanced her own life passage and prepared her to support and guide those facing internal and external obstacles in their journey through life. She has learned many lessons along the way, which are now available to you to learn as successful strategies for dealing with life’s difficulties.
A lifelong writer, her first book, Climbing the Sacred Ladder: Your Path to Love, Joy, Peace, and Purpose, received acclaim from nationally recognized spiritual leaders of all religious dominations. When faced with the pandemic’s disruption of her busy life and forced to socially isolate, she returned to writing. Her second book, From Oy to Joy: A Soul Journey to Making the Best of Your Life for the Rest of Your Life, reflects her own journey and offers guidance to support those dealing with the challenges of aging.
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/9/2024: Shulamit Sofia, author of “From Oy to Joy” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Jonathan Branfman, Eli Reinhard Postdoctoral Fellow at the Taube Center for Jewish Studies, Stanford University, discusses his book, Millennial Jewish Stars: Navigating Racial Antisemitism, Masculinity, & White Supremacy. Branfman is a former resident of Cherry Hill, NJ.
Jewish stars have longed faced pressure to downplay Jewish identity for fear of alienating wider audiences. But unexpectedly, since the 2000s, many millennial Jewish stars have won stellar success while spotlighting (rather than muting) Jewish identity. In Millennial Jewish Stars, Jonathan Branfman asks: what makes these explicitly Jewish stars so unexpectedly appealing? And what can their surprising success tell us about race, gender, and antisemitism in America? To answer these questions, Branfman offers case studies on six top millennial Jewish stars: the biracial rap superstar Drake, comedic rapper Lil Dicky, TV comedy duo Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, “man-baby” film star Seth Rogen, and chiseled film star Zac Efron.
Branfman argues that despite their differences, each star’s success depends on how they navigate racial antisemitism: the historical notion that Jews are physically inferior to Christians. Each star especially navigates racial stigmas about Jewish masculinity—stigmas that depict Jewish men as emasculated, Jewish women as masculinized, and both as sexually perverse. By embracing, deflecting, or satirizing these stigmas, each star comes to symbolize national hopes and fears about all kinds of hot-button issues. For instance, by putting a cuter twist on stereotypes of Jewish emasculation, Seth Rogen plays soft man-babies who dramatize (and then resolve) popular anxieties about modern fatherhood. This knack for channeling national dreams and doubts is what makes each star so unexpectedly marketable.
In turn, examining how each star navigates racial antisemitism onscreen makes it easier to pinpoint how antisemitism, white privilege, and color-based racism interact in the real world. Likewise, this insight can aid readers to better notice and challenge racial antisemitism in everyday life.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJonathan BranfmanJonathan Branfman is the Eli Reinhard Postdoctoral Fellow at the Taube Center for Jewish Studies, Stanford University.
He researches race, masculinity, and Jewish identity in popular media. His work invites Jewish, feminist, queer, critical race, and media studies to grasp how historical anti-Semitism shapes present-day U.S. visual culture, and how Jewish stars harness this stigma to enter America’s core cultural debates.
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/2/2024: Prof. Jonathan Branfman’s Book, “Millennial Jewish Stars” About Racism and Antisemitism appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Shlomo Brody discusses Ematai.org, a web resource providing guidance from a Jewish perspective for issues of healthcare and end-of-life decision-making.
Ematai helps individuals and their families anticipate the questions they’ll need to answer as they continue on their healthcare journey.
Ematai also explores the big moral questions that society needs to face as technological revolutions change the human experience.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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About the GuestRabbi Dr. Shlomo BrodyRabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody is the executive director of Ematai and the Jewish Law Live
columnist for the Jerusalem Post. He previously served as the founding director of the Tikvah Overseas Student Institute and co-dean of Tikvah Online Academy, a senior instructor at Yeshivat Hakotel, and as a junior research fellow at the Israel Democracy Institute.
Brody’s career has focused on making Jewish texts accessible to broader audiences while applying them to contemporary social and ethical dilemmas. His writings have been cited in Israeli Supreme Court decisions and have appeared in Mosaic, First Things, Tradition, The Federalist, Tablet, Tzohar, The Forward, Hakirah, Jewish Review of Books, and other popular publications.
His first book, A Guide to the Complex: Contemporary Halakhic Debates (Maggid), received a National Jewish Book Award. His second book, Ethics of Our Fighters: A Jewish View on War and Morality, was published in January 2024 and will be published in Hebrew at the end of the year.
A summa cum laude graduate of Harvard College, he received rabbinic ordination from the Israeli Chief Rabbinate, an MA in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University, and his PhD from Bar Ilan University Law School, where he continues to serve as a post-doctoral fellow. Rabbi Brody has been an invited scholar-in-residence at over 60 distinguished congregations and campuses in the United States, Canada, England, and Israel.
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/26/2024: Rabbi Shlomo Brody discusses Ematai.org, elder and end of life healthcare guidance resource appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address, upper left, chats with (clockwise): Catherine Fischer; Kim Passy Yoseph, and Emili Ghraiyib.On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Kim Passy Yoseph of the Interact Dual Narrative Education Center, and Emili Ghraiyib of MEDJI Tours, joint Palestinian-Israel tours of cultural highlights in the Middle East, along with Catherine Fischer, principal of the synagogue consultancy Sacred-Practice.com, who has been involved in bringing participants to the programs.
The InterAct Education Center uses story-telling, art and technology to help people connect across war-torn divides: whether those divides be political, cultural, ethnic, religious, geographic, or socio-economic.
Dedicated to providing customized itineraries for travel groups as diverse as its destinations, MEJDI Tours is full-service tour company-differentiating itself from the crowd through exclusive access, authentic experiences, extraordinary customer service, and much more – founded on the belief that tourism should be a vehicle for a more positive and interconnected world.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsKim Passy YosephOn October 7th 2023, Kim’s childhood friend was captured and held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. While joining the family’s efforts to successfully bring Yarden home, Kim continued (until today) to believe that a peaceful resolution is the only way forward.
Since 2017, Kim Passy-Yoseph has been serving as the Director of Operations at MEJDITours as well as the non-profit branch, Interact International – both committed to creating a more interconnected and peaceful world —highlighting dialogue, empathy and understanding on a global scale.
Kim holds a master’s degree in Immigration and Social Integration, which laid the groundwork for her innovative approach to exploring the complexities of multiculturalism. She leads guide facilitation and dialogue training sessions inspiring cooperation and fostering a deeper appreciation for complex social dynamics. She is
vocal and often participates on webinars, podcasts and panel discussions on a variety of topics related to conflict resolution, social integration and women’s role in peace
making.
Emili GhraiyibA dedicated peace activist hailing from the Biblical Shepherd’s Field town of Beit Sahour, Emili holds an MA in Public Policy and Political Action from the Universite de Franche-Comte and is fluent in Arabic, English, and French.
Emili is a licensed tour guide and has been contributing her expertise to MEDJI since before joining the operations team in 2023. Before her time with MEDJI, Emili honed her organizational development, project planning, and implementation skills through various administrative roles in local and international NGOs. Her work involved empowering social action groups in the West Bank, with a particular focus on women in the tourism industry.
Catherine S. Fischer, M.Ed.Catherine S. Fischer is the creator of Sacred Practice: Reimagining Synagogue Engagement. In founding Sacred Practice, she aspires to bring the transformational power of Judaism into all aspects of Jewish communal work, from the seemingly most mundane task to the most extraordinary, finding the sacred and lifting it up so that Jewish organizations radiate purpose and thus thrive.
She began her Jewish professional career in 2001 as the Pennsylvania Regional Director of Outreach and Synagogue Community for the Union for Reform Judaism. In 2004, through Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Catherine became the Coordinator for the Center City Kehillah (community), working cross-denominationally to strengthen Jewish life in Philadelphia. She was the Director of Membership, Programming, and Philanthropy at Congregation Rodeph Shalom from 2008 to 2020.
Catherine continues to learn from and be inspired by opportunities offered through The Institute for Jewish Spirituality where she is now in training to become a spiritual director as well as Combatants for Peace, Mejdi Tours and InterAct International where she coordinated Israeli/Palestinian dual narrative learning and is planning a fall 2024 trip to Israel and Palestine. She is an active member of her synagogues, Congregation Rodeph Shalom in Philadelphia and Congregation Kol Ami in Cherry Hill.
Catherine graduated from Bard College (with honors) and received her M.Ed. from Lesley University and Shady Hill School. Catherine is currently in training to become a spiritual director through the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. Before she became a Jewish professional, Catherine spent two decades as an elementary, middle school, and college educator.
Catherine lives in Cherry Hill with my husband, Richard. They are extremely proud of their children – Sarah & Eddy and David & Rachel and cherish their two grandchildren, Oliver and Lily.
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/19/2024: A Bridge-building educational and tourism effort between Israelis and Palestinians appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Elissa Strauss discusses her new book, When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others.
In this “urgent and necessary book” (Rebecca Traister, New York Times bestselling author), journalist Elissa Strauss explores the powerful role caring for others plays in our individual and communal lives, weaving together research and stories from parents and caregivers with a feminist bent.
Behind our current caregiving crisis, in which a broken system has left parents and caregivers exhausted, sits a fierce addiction to independence. But what would happen if we started to appreciate dependency, and the deep meaning of one person caring for another? If we start to care about care?
With a curiosity and desire to understand more fully one of humanity’s most profound and essential relationships, journalist Elissa Strauss she interrogates our societal obsession with going it alone and poses a challenge to let ourselves be transformed by the act of caregiving. When You Care weaves historical anecdotes and science with conversations with parents and caregivers to the young, old, disabled, ill, and more, revealing a rich array of insights about how care shapes us on the inside and the outside, for the better.
Care is a long-ignored force in our collective and political lives, as well as a deeply philosophical, spiritual, and psychologically potent experience. Moreso, an embrace of care by both women and men will lead to a more gender equitable future and help us reimagine what it means to be productive and live a meaningful life. “A deeply researched—and deeply felt—exploration of the beautiful truth about care: that we find, feed, and know ourselves through our relationships” (Judith Warner, New York Times bestselling author).
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestElissa StraussElissa Strauss has been writing about the politics and culture of parenting and caregiving for over fifteen years. Her work is featured in publications such as the Atlantic, the New York Times, Glamour, ELLE, TheWeek.com, and more. Previously, she contributed to CNN.com and Slate, where her cultural criticism about motherhood was showcased on DoubleX. Her book, When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others, is available from Gallery Books.
In addition to writing, Strauss is involved in curation and cultural programming. She holds the position of associate director of LABA: A Laboratory for Jewish Culture, a global artist incubator program that draws inspiration from ancient Jewish texts to foster new cultural creations and dialogues. She is also the artistic director of the LABA hub in the Bay Area and serves as the senior curator for the 2024 California Jewish Open at the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco.
Strauss resides in Oakland, California, with her husband and their two sons.
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/12/2024: Elissa Strauss, author of “When You Care,” book about caregiving appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Rusty Rosman discusses her book, Two Envelopes: What You Want Your Loved Ones To Know When You Die.
When you die, there are so many things your family and loved ones immediately need to know. Two Envelopes is your voice, conveying your wishes regarding your death and your estate.
With a unique blend of wisdom, humor and empathetic storytelling, Rusty Rosman delves into the often-avoided topic of death, offering readers a guide to navigate the complexities of both practical and emotional aspects of end-of-life planning. Rusty’s wisdom and heartfelt way of guiding her readers make this book unique among the other end-of-life planning workbooks available online.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRusty RosmanRusty Rosman is a former teacher and commercial real estate broker. Rusty has served as president and fundraiser for several nonprofit community organizations. In her community where she has lived her entire life, Rusty is a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Property Tax Board. Rusty and her husband Stephen are the very proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to six grandchildren.
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/5/2024: Rusty Rosman, author of “Two Envelopes” Book on End of Life Planning appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Judith Smith discusses her new book, Difficult: Mothering Difficult Adult Children Through Conflict and Change.
Difficult brings to life the conflicts that arise for mothers who are confronted with the unexpected, burdensome, and even catastrophic dependencies of their adult children associated with mental illness, substance use, or chronic unemployment. Through real stories of mothers and their challenging adult children, this book offers relatable, provocative, and, at times, shocking illustrations of the excruciating maternal dilemma: Which takes precedence—the needs of the mother or of the distressed adult child?
With guidance for finding social support, staying safe, engaging in self-care, and helping the adult child, Difficult is a compassionate resource for those living in a family situation which too many keep secret and allows readers to see that they are not alone.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestJudith R. Smith, Ph.D., LCSWJudith R. Smith, Ph.D., LCSW, is a NYC based psychotherapist, professor, and researcher on women’s issues as they age. She is a professor, Emerita, at Fordham University. She offers support groups on-line for mothers with difficult adult children. Her book, Difficult: Mothering Challenging Adult Children through Conflict and Change, is based on a three-year research project, and brings to life the stories of fifty women, each over sixty years old, whose lives were drastically altered by becoming the default safety net for their adult “kids.” To learn more, please visit: https://www.difficultmothering.com
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/28/2024: Dr. Judith Smith, author of “Difficult: Mothering Difficult Adult Children Through Conflict and Change” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, David Zinner, the co-founder and board chair of the Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE) discussed JADE’s interactive web educational tool on Jewish practices and rituals related to death and end-of-life care.
JADE works with the entire Jewish community, affiliated and unaffiliated, large cities and small towns, to provide education and information directly to the ultimate consumer and to those who provide services to them. JADE seeks to identify, and provide resources, to provide information in a way that is personal, sensitive, and meaningful, incorporating traditional Jewish practices in contemporary contexts.
JADE offers spiritual and educational resources to help people understand the rites, rituals, and processes surrounding death. We aim to fill a major void by providing a centralized resource for all the different elements of death and to help death become a mainstream conversation. JADE also provides ongoing education and training for individuals and other organizations that deal with end-of-life issues and bereavement.
Ultimately, JADE’s services aim to comfort families and help them make informed choices during the difficult time of losing a loved one.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDavid Zinner, co-founder of the Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE)David ZinnerDavid Zinner is the founder and recently retired Executive Director of Kavod v’Nichum, (Honor and Comfort), which has worked to restore to Jewish death and bereavement practice, the traditions and values of kavod hamet (honoring the dead) and nichum avelim (comforting the bereaved) since 2000. He is also the co-founder of the Gamliel Institute, a center for leadership training and advocacy of traditional Jewish practice in the continuum of care at the end of life since 2010.
His 20 years of work for Kavod v’Nichum included traveling around the country conducting chevrah kadisha trainings for local chevrot, coordinating the Chevrah Kadisha Conference, a conference dedicated to sharing knowledge about Jewish end of life practices, and managing the jewish-funerals.org website, a website which includes hundreds of pages of resources on Jewish end of life practices.
David’s newest project – PRINCE – Preservation and Restoration Initiative for Neglected Cemetery Entities matches cemeteries that need labor with prisoners eligible for work release.
As co-Vice-President of the Jewish Funeral Practices Committee of Greater Washington, David participates in developing citywide contracts with funeral homes. He is a consumer representative on the State of Maryland’s Advisory Council on Cemetery Operations. He was the Executive Director of Tifereth Israel Congregation, a conservative synagogue in Washington, DC for 10 years.
David is a past president, choir member, succah building coordinator and Chevra Kadisha Chair at the Columbia Jewish Congregation and a bike leader for Cycle to Health, a Howard County sponsored senior cycling group, and a chief election judge in Howard County Maryland.
David received a bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, MO , with a major in non-profit management.
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/21/2024: David Zinner, Co-Founder, Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE) appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, discusses the rising incidence of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment in the United States and describes some of the programs in Jewish education and interfaith understanding supported by the Center.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jonah Dov PesnerRabbi Jonah Dov Pesner (he/him) serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and has led the Religious Action Center since 2015. Rabbi Pesner also serves as Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism, a position to which he was appointed in 2011. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, he is an inspirational leader and tireless advocate for social justice.
Rabbi Pesner’s work focuses on encouraging Jewish communities to reach across lines of race, class, and faith while campaigning for social justice. In 2006, he founded Just Congregations (now incorporated into the Religious Action Center), which engaged clergy, professional, and volunteer leaders in interfaith social justice efforts. Rabbi Pesner was a primary leader in the Massachusetts campaign for health care access that has provided coverage to thousands and became a model for nationwide reform. Over the course of his career, he has also led and supported campaigns for racial justice, economic opportunity, immigration reform, LGBTQ+ equality, human rights, and a variety of other causes. He is dedicated to building bridges to collectively confront antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate.
Rabbi Pesner is a Visiting Scholar at Harvard University, speaks regularly on college campuses, has trained students on all four campuses of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and gives speeches in interfaith and secular venues all over the world. Rabbi Pesner serves as a board member of the NAACP, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the National Religious Partnership for the Environment, and the New England Center for Children. He is a member of the Faith-Based Security Advisory Council for the Department of Homeland Security, the W. K. Kellogg Foundation Solidarity Council on Racial Equity and the Leadership Team of the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable. He has served as a scholar for the Wexner Foundation, The Chautauqua Institution, American Jewish World Service, the Nexus USA Summit, and Combined Jewish Philanthropies.
Rabbi Pesner was the co-editor of “Moral Resistance and Spiritual Authority: Our Jewish Obligation to Justice,” wrote the afterword to the newly published “Social Justice Torah Commentary,” and is a widely-published author (view the full list).
Ordained at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1997, Rabbi Pesner was a congregational rabbi at Temple Israel in Boston, Massachusetts and at Temple Israel in Westport, Connecticut. A graduate of Wesleyan University and the Bronx High School of Science, Rabbi Pesner is married to Dana S. Gershon, an attorney. They have four daughters: Juliet, Noa, Bobbie, and Cate.
View Rabbi Pesner’s writings, remarks and media appearances
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/14/2024: Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Lawrence Lazarus, MD, discusses the book, Insider’s Guide to Quality, Affordable Healthcare: Practical Strategies to Navigate our Complex System and Save Money
Tired of being overwhelmed with escalating healthcare costs, find your doctors more focused on their computer than on you, and want to be more in command of your healthcare decisions?
If you’re looking for easy-to-apply strategies for obtaining high quality medical care and reducing healthcare expenses, this book is for you.
The authors are doctors with decades of experience in treating patients and their families. They have written this book to serve as your guide and share the inside story about how the U.S. healthcare system really works, so you are empowered to:
- find the best doctors and medical specialists and reduce your medical expenses
- prevent medical errors that account for more deaths each year than car accidents
- obtain a second opinion from a specialist who may save your life
- take advantage of the Affordable Health Care Act and other insurance options
- secure a healthcare advocate (“guardian angel”)
- take more control of your health and obtain the highest quality healthcare
Finally, a user-friendly guide to help everyone choose the highest quality healthcare and learn how to contain their out-of-pocket costs.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Lawrence LazarusLawrence W. Lazarus, M.D., has spent his forty-year career specializing in geriatric medicine and psychiatry, primarily at Rush Medical School and University in Chicago, Illinois. He was the founding Director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Rush University. He is a co-editor of the Comprehensive Textbook of Geriatric Psychiatry and has authored fifty medical articles for the medical and the lay public. He is a former president of the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry and a recipient of the National Institute of Mental Health Geriatric Mental Health Academic Award. Dr. Lazarus is currently in private practice in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/7/2024: Dr. Lawrence Lazarus, Co-Author of The Insider’s Guide to Quality, Affordable Healthcare appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
JewishSacredAging.com is sponsoring a continuing series of live webinar discussions on issues that matter to us as we age. These webinars are being co-hosted on Zoom by Rabbi Address and his colleague, Rabbi Mark Howard Levin of Overland, Kansas.
You can watch previous webinar discussions here. If you are interested in learning about upcoming webinars, please email webmaster@jewishsacredaging.com.
April 17, 2024 Webinar
May 23, 2024 Webinar
About the Co-HostRabbi Mark Howard LevinRabbi Mark Howard Levin is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. Graduated in 1971 from Boston University, magna cum laude with distinction in religion, Rabbi Levin received his Master of Arts in Hebrew letters from Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in 1974, his Certificate in Jewish Communal Studies in 1974 (Los Angeles), and was ordained in 1976 (Cincinnati). Most recently, Rabbi Levin completed his Doctorate of Hebrew Letters through HUC-JIR in New York in May, 2001, and his honorary Doctor of Divinity in 2001 in Cincinnati. He has been the congregational Pulpit Rabbi for Congregation Beth Torah since its inception in 1988 up until his retirement from this position in June 2014. In July 2014 he accepted the position of Beth Torah’s Founding Rabbi. Rabbi Levin is the father of three children and grandfather of two grandchildren. He is married to the former Kacy Childs-Winston, the mother of Kyle and Seth Winston. Rabbi Levin serves on several local boards and writes religion columns for the Kansas City Star, and answers questions for the “Ask the Rabbi” service of the Union of Reform Judaism.
The post Jewish Sacred Aging Webinar Series: Reflections on Our Long and Winding Road appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, discusses her new book, From Time to Time, Journeys in the Jewish Calendar.
Time is fundamental to the human experience, and in Judaism it is even more—time is sanctified. Understanding the Jewish calendar is thus essential for fully comprehending Judaism. In From Time to Time, Rabbi Dalia Marx, PhD, presents a fascinating exploration of the treasures of the Jewish year. The book artfully blends traditional and contemporary perspectives on each Hebrew month and its holidays. Rabbi Marx’s insights are paired with striking illustrations; each month also features a diverse selection of poetry, prayers, and songs. Taking a distinctively Israeli, feminist, and progressive approach, From Time to Time is a comprehensive, indispensable companion you will want to return to each season.
Download a study guide from the CCAR Press website.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D.Rabbi Dalia Marx, Ph.D., is the Rabbi Aaron D. Panken Professor of Liturgy and Midrash at HUC-JIR’s Taube Family Campus in Jerusalem, and teaches in various academic institutions in Israel and Europe.
Marx, a tenth generation Jerusalemite, earned her doctorate at the Hebrew University and her rabbinic ordination at HUC-JIR in Jerusalem and Cincinnati in 2002. She is involved in various research projects and is active in promoting liberal Judaism in Israel. Marx writes for academic and popular journals and publications.
Marx is the lead editor of the Israeli Reform siddur, Tfillat HaAdam (2020). Her book From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar (Yeditos Sfarim 2018), was translated to several languages, and is available in English from the CCAR Press.
She is the author of When I Sleep and When I Wake: On Prayers between Dusk and Dawn (Yediot Sfarim, 2010, in Hebrew), A Feminist Commentary of the Babylonian Talmud (Mohr Siebeck, 2013, in English), About Time: Journeys in the Jewish-Israeli Calendar (Yediot Sfarim, 2018, in Hebrew) and the co-editor of a few books. See Marx’s website.
Marx lives in Jerusalem with her husband, Roly Zyblersztein, Ph.D. They have three children.
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/31/2024: Rabbi Dalia Marx, author of “From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Lisa David, executive director, URJ Camps/Camp Harlam and URJ Camps Pipeline Strategy, and Lori Zlotoff, inclusion coordinator at URJ Camp Harlam, discuss the importance of summer camp experiences for Jewish children and teenagers.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsLisa DavidExecutive Director, URJ CampsLisa returned to Camp Harlam as the Associate Director in April of 2014 and was promoted to be camp’s sixth Director in history in 2017. Lisa began her involvement with Camp Harlam as a camper in Arava in 1988, continuing through as a camper, CIT, staff member, Assistant Unit Head, and as the CIT Director in the summer of 2000. Her Harlam connections run far deeper, as she also met her husband Ben in the summer of 1988, and she has maintained connections to many of her counselors and campers, serving for a brief time as the Co-President of the Alumni Network as well.
Before returning to Harlam, Lisa worked as Associate Director of Camping for the URJ, working with all of the camps in the URJ system on a range of different programmatic initiatives. She also served as the Director of KESHER, the College Department of the URJ, and as the Assistant Camp Director and Director of Teen Services and the Jewish Community Center of Central New Jersey.
Lisa grew up in Bucks County, PA, and graduated from the University of Maryland in 1999 with a BS in Family Studies. In 2001 Lisa received her Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania and her Master of Jewish Communal Service from Gratz College.
Lisa is thrilled to be back at the camp that inspired her personal and professional path. Beyond the Machanayim scar still visible on her knee (Red Team, 2nd session 1990), camp – and the inspiring leaders and peers she experienced it with – left an indelible mark on her identity as well. They inspired her to grow from a shy, quiet 1st time camper at 11 years old to a Jewish camping professional working to provide a meaningful and fulfilling camp experience for many more Jewish youth.
In Lisa’s role as the Director, she oversees Harlam’s complete summer program and all operations.
Lisa currently lives in Jenkintown, PA with her husband, Rabbi Benjamin David, and their children Noa, Elijah and Sam, and is a member of Temple Keneseth Israel.
Lori ZlotoffLori Zlotoff, LCSW, grew up in Merrick, NY and was an active member of NFTY throughout high school. She attended Kutz Camp as a camper and returned to URJ camping in 1997 for the inaugural year of Camp Newman in Santa Rosa, CA as a bunk counselor. It was there that she met her future husband, Jacob, who had also been NFTY President.
Lori received her undergraduate degree from Binghamton University and her Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice in 2001. In addition, she participated in a dual program with Gratz College, receiving a graduate certificate in Jewish education.
For more than 20 years, Lori has worked in New York as a licensed clinical social worker with a variety of clients, and she currently owns her own private practice. Lori is the point-person on Harlam’s inclusion efforts, including the direct support of campers and families prior to and during the camp season. She also oversees the Avodah program.
Lori currently lives with her family in Port Washington, NY, where they are members of The Community Synagogue. Lori is the executive producer of The Community Synagogue Theater Company, which blends her love of musical theater with her love of the Jewish community!
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/24/2024: Jewish Summer Camps, with Lisa David and Lori Zlotoff of the URJ Camps appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Reb Simcha Raphael, Ph.D., discusses his new book of poetry, Musings with the Angel of Death: Poems of Love, Life and Longing.
Intense and deeply personal, this compilation of poetry, grapples with the reality of death, loss, and finding meaning in the face of life’s finitude in contemporary times. For more than three decades, Simcha Paull Raphael has written scholarly books on death and the afterlife, including his groundbreaking study Jewish Views of the Afterlife. In this collection of thirty-six poems, Raphael invites us into the inner sanctum of his own intimate wrestling with death and loss. As Rabbi Jill Hammer writes in the Foreword: “Raphael has done the brave work of exposing his own emotional life, the inner workings of his drive to address mortality and immortality. In a sense, he has let us know the behind-the-scenes of his academic and spiritual work.”
These poems reflect and wrestle with a spectrum of topics: the gamut of Jewish death rituals (funeral & shiva, Kaddish & Yizkor); personal tributes to the author’s deceased parents; his journey of making meaning in the face of grief and loss; challenges of love and marriage; the vicissitudes of family life; and thoughtful poetic reflections on the state of the world today. As a book mirroring the universal journey of awakening to the reality of life’s finality and eternity, Musings with the Angel of Death speaks to the heart and soul.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Simcha RaphaelReb Simcha Paull Raphael, Ph.D.SIMCHA RAPHAEL, Ph.D., is the Founding Director of the DA’AT INSTITUTE. He has worked as a death awareness educator, bereavement counselor and hospice chaplain for over twenty-five years. Ordained as a Rabbinic Pastor by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, he received a doctorate in Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies, and has written extensively on the topics of death, bereavement and the afterlife
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/17/2024: Reb Simcha Raphael, author of “Musings With The Angel Of Death: Poems of Love, Life and Longing” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Mark Washofsky, PhD, discusses his new book, Reading Reform Responsa: Jewish Tradition, Reform Rabbis, and Today’s Issues, now available from CCAR Press or Amazon.com.
The responsa literature, in which rabbis answer questions about halachah (Jewish law), is a vast treasury reaching back nearly fifteen centuries; Reform rabbis have been writing responsa since the 1800s. In Reading Reform Responsa, Rabbi Mark Washofsky, PhD, presents a deep dive into this literature, boldly arguing that Reform Judaism is indeed a movement fundamentally based on halachah. By inviting and guiding readers to understand Reform responsa with a critical eye, he shows that our movement has always been informed by Jewish law as well as Reform history. A teacher and mentor of generations of students at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Washofsky gives us a peek inside his classroom, making Reform responsa — and their history, framing, and context — engaging and accessible for all.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Mark Washofsky, Ph.D.Rabbi Mark Washofsky, PhD, is an emeritus professor of Jewish Law and Practice at Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati. He served as chair of the Responsa Committee of the Central Conference of American Rabbis from 1996 to 2017. He is currently the chair of the Solomon B. Freehof Institute of Progressive Halakhah. His publications include Jewish Living: A Guide to Contemporary Reform Practice, Reform Responsa for the Twenty-First Century (CCAR Press, 2010), and Reading Reform Responsa: Jewish Tradition, Reform Rabbis, and Today’s Issues (CCAR Press, 2024).
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/10/2024: Rabbi Mark Washofsky, author of book, “Reading Reform Responsa” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Shira Zemel, Abortion Access Campaign Co-Director for the National Council of Jewish Women, discusses the organization’s efforts to protect women’s reproductive freedom.
Since its founding, NCJW has been a leader in the reproductive health and rights movement, and while much advancement has been made in the past 100 years to legally secure a person’s right to abortion and contraception, there is so much more that needs to be done to truly ensure reproductive freedom for all.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestShira ZemelShira Zemel is the Co-Director of National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW)’s abortion access campaign, the coordinated Jewish movement for reproductive health, rights and justice. In this role, Shira activates and mobilizes the Jewish community to take action for abortion access.
Prior to coming to NCJW, Shira was the Director of Youth Leadership Development at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC). There, Shira led the L’Taken Social Justice Seminars; these high school leadership conferences–focused on advocacy, Jewish values, and the legislative process–bring 2,000 students to Washington D.C. each year to lobby their members of Congress. Over nearly eight years at the RAC, Shira transformed these seminars into the centerpiece of a leadership development pipeline to foster the next generation of Jewish social justice advocates.
Shira serves as president of the ARCH board, a local abortion fund serving patients seeking care in northern Virginia. When not getting into good trouble and fighting for a just world, Shira enjoys curating feminist yard signs for her front lawn, listening to news and politics podcasts, and working on seasonal craft projects–preferably with her two young kids.
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/3/2024: Shira Zemel, National Council of Jewish Women, on Reproductive Freedom appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
We would like to invite you for our second conversation on the spiritual issues that emerge as we get older.
Topics* OY GEVALT! If it isn’t one thing, it’s another. * The challenges of dealing with loss and transitions as we age.
All too often these discussions go unmet. We invite you to join us to have a non-judgmental and open conversation, drawing on the power and strength of our Jewish texts.
This free webinar will take place on Zoom, with an opportunity for audience members to ask questions of the presenters.
There is no cost to attend, but we do need you to register. Click the button below to register, and you will receive Zoom information after you complete the registration.
Date: Wednesday, May 23, 2024, 4-5.30 pm EDT/3-4:30 CDT/2-3:30 MDT/1-2:30 PDT
Click here to register for this Zoom webinarWe look forward to sharing our time with you.
About the Workshop LeadersRabbi Mark Howard LevinRabbi Mark Howard Levin is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. Graduated in 1971 from Boston University, magna cum laude with distinction in religion, Rabbi Levin received his Master of Arts in Hebrew letters from Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in 1974, his Certificate in Jewish Communal Studies in 1974 (Los Angeles), and was ordained in 1976 (Cincinnati). Most recently, Rabbi Levin completed his Doctorate of Hebrew Letters through HUC-JIR in New York in May, 2001, and his honorary Doctor of Divinity in 2001 in Cincinnati. He has been the congregational Pulpit Rabbi for Congregation Beth Torah since its inception in 1988 up until his retirement from this position in June 2014. In July 2014 he accepted the position of Beth Torah’s Founding Rabbi. Rabbi Levin is the father of three children and grandfather of two grandchildren. He is married to the former Kacy Childs-Winston, the mother of Kyle and Seth Winston. Rabbi Levin serves on several local boards and writes religion columns for the Kansas City Star, and answers questions for the “Ask the Rabbi” service of the Union of Reform Judaism.
Rabbi Richard F. Address, D. Min.Rabbi Richard F. Address, D. Min, is the Founder and Director of www.jewishsacredaging.com. Rabbi Address served for over three decades on staff of the Union for Reform Judaism; first as a Regional Director and then, beginning in 1997, as Founder and Director of the URJ’s Department of Jewish Family Concerns and served as a specialist and consultant for the North American Reform Movement in the areas of family related programming. Rabbi Address was ordained from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 1972 and began his rabbinic career in Los Angeles congregations. He also served as a part time rabbi for Beth Hillel in Carmel, NJ while regional director and, after his URJ tenure, served as senior rabbi of Congregation M’kor Shalom in Cherry Hill, NJ from 2011-2014.
A major part of Address’s work has been in the development and implementation of the project on Sacred Aging. This project has been responsible for creating awareness and resources for congregations on the implication of the emerging longevity revolution with growing emphasis on the aging of the baby boom generation. This aging revolution has begun to impact all aspects of Jewish communal and congregational life.
Rabbi Address was ordained at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in Cincinnati (1972) and served congregations in California before joining the staff of the Union for Reform Judaism (formerly the Union of American Hebrew Congregations) in 1978. He directed the Union’s Pennsylvania Council from 1978 through 2000. In 1997 he founded the Department of Jewish Family Concerns and went full time in New York in January of 2001.
In May 2023, Rabbi Address received a Certificate in Advanced Concepts in an Aging Society from Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California.
Rabbi Address received a Certificate in Pastoral Counseling from the Post Graduate Center for Mental Health in 1998 and his Doctor of Ministry from HUC-JIR in 1999. He also received his honorary Doctorate from HUC-JIR in 1997.
In January of 2007 he was awarded the “Sherut L’Am” award by the Kalsman Institute for Judaism and Health. He teaches classes in Jewish Family issues and Sacred Aging at the New York campus of HUC-JIR.
In 2024, he received the I.M. Wise Award for Achievement from the Denver, CO, Reform Jewish community.
In March 2010, Rabbi Address was awarded a Best Practices in Older Adult Programs: First Place by the National Council on Aging-Interfaith Coalition on Aging.
Rabbi Address contributes articles for web sites on issues related to spirituality and aging. He co-chairs the Committee on Spirituality and Diversity for C-TAC (Coalition to Transform Advanced Care), and serves as Rabbinic Advisor to Men of Reform Judaism. For four years, he hosted a weekly radio show in Philadelphia called “Boomer Generation Radio,” which is archived in podcast form on this website. Beginning in winter 2018, Rabbi Address began hosting a weekly podcast, Seekers of Meaning, dedicated to discussing issues related to aging, spirituality and the impact on families, and congregations.
Rabbi Address has authored numerous articles, book chapters and books related to the issue of aging.
The post Live Webinar, 05/23/2024, 4 p.m. US EDT: Reflections on Our Long and Winding Road appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch, senior rabbi of the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York, discusses the upcoming second annual Re-Charging Reform conference, being held at the synagogue May 29-30.
The conference expects to consider these key topics:
- Israel’s and world Jewry’s confidence in the importance of the Zionist enterprise and its most basic promise — to protect the lives, liberty and dignity of Jews;
- Our liberal values and examine the partnerships we’ve spent decades building in pursuit of social justice;
- Liturgy and spirituality, anchoring them to eloquent expressions of Jewish peoplehood and a yearning for Zion; and
- Educational models that guide the next generation in valuing the significance of Israel and the Jewish people to our identity as Reform Jews.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestShahar Azan PhotoRabbi Ammiel HirschRabbi Ammiel Hirsch is the senior rabbi of Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York City. With a fiery voice, a listening heart and a brilliant mind, Rabbi Hirsch articulates a clear vision for the survival and success of American Judaism while tending compassionately to the needs of his growing congregation.
Internationally recognized for his leadership in Jewish affairs, Rabbi Hirsch is frequently cited in the media. In 2018, The Jerusalem Post named him among “The 50 Most Influential Jews of the Year.” City & State praised him as “the borough’s most influential voice” for Manhattan’s more than 300,000 Jews and The New York Observer named him among “New York’s Most Influential Religious Leaders.”
The son of Rabbi Richard G. Hirsch z’’l and Bella Hirsch z’’l, Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch grew up in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before moving to Israel for his high school years. From 1977 to 1980, he served as a tank commander in the Israel Defense Forces.
Rabbi Hirsch earned his LL.B Honors law degree from the London School of Economics and is a member of the New York State Bar. He received his ordination at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City, where he was granted numerous awards for academic excellence.
Prior to his arrival at Stephen Wise, he served for 12 years as executive director of the Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA), the Israel arm of the North American Reform movement.
Rabbi Hirsch has served on numerous boards of national and international bodies, including the Jewish Agency for Israel, the World Zionist Organization, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He is currently an officer of the New York Board of Rabbis, and a member of the Partnership of Faith, an interfaith body of New York religious leaders, and New York State Attorney General Letitia James’ Black-Jewish Clergy Roundtable.
An accomplished teacher and public speaker, Rabbi Hirsch is also the co-author of the acclaimed One People Two Worlds: A Reform Rabbi and an Orthodox Rabbi Explore the Issues that Divide Them.
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/26/2024: Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch discusses 2024 RE-Charging Reform Conference appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Peter Kasdan and Dr. Liz Etkin-Kramer discuss Yodeah.org, their online portal for genetic screening and counseling of Jewish families for the BRCA gene and other genetic markers for cancer risk.
Ashkenazi Jewish men and women are disproportionately more likely to carry hereditary genetic mutations that can markedly increase their lifetime risk of cancer. Most people are not aware, and most will not have a family history. Yodeah’s mission is to educate the Jewish community about hereditary cancer genetic mutations and provide access to affordable, clinical grade testing. Yodeah’s goal is to save lives. Knowledge is power. Knowledge saves lives.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLiz Etkin-Kramer, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.Dr Liz Etkin-Kramer is a board certified gynecologist in South Florida.
In addition to her private practice, she is an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at FIU Herbert Wertheim School of medicine and she holds leadership positions in Florida’s district XII of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She founded Yodeah.org, a nonprofit dedicated to educating the Jewish community on their increased risk of carrying hereditary cancer genetic mutations and facilitating cost effective genetic testing.
With the late Lauren Corduck, founder of One in Forty, she co-founded the Prevent Hereditary cancer coalition. In 2020 she was appointed to the American College of Obstetrics of gynecology presidential task force on knowledge gaps in breast and ovarian cancer risk assessment, management and genetic testing, and created educational videos for practicing OB/GYNs.
She is passionate about breast and ovarian cancer risk assessment, early detection and prevention.
RABBI PETER E. KASDANRabbi Peter E. Kasdan was named Rabbi Emeritus when he retired in July 2001, after serving as Rabbi of Temple Emanu-El of West Essex, Livingston, New Jersey, for thirty years. Known, most widely, for his social justice work, he helped create and was the first president of both the Livingston Interfaith Clergy Association and the Livingston Interfaith Council, as well as the Founding President of NJRC AR (the New Jersey Religious Coalition for Abortion Rights). Taking the title “Rabbi-teacher” seriously, he relished the time he spent working with the B’nai Mitzvah students, as well as with his students in the Confirmation/Post-Confirmation Program. He also taught more than a dozen Adult B’nai Mitzvah classes, helping 187 Adults study in a two-year cycle and enabling them to reach that unique moment in their Jewish lives that, as children, for whatever the reason, they never had the chance to attain.
Since his retirement, Rabbi Kasdan has remained quite active in a variety of endeavors in which he remains passionate: in the search for social justice, continuing his life-long efforts on behalf of the migrant worker community, specifically his support of, and personal friendship with the late Cesar Chavez and the multi-generations of the Chavez-Rodriguez family; in the growth and achievement of our children through his support of NFTY, JFTY’s Urban Mitzvah Corps and the URJ’s Kutz Camp; in his bond with K’lal Yisraeyl, supportive of the welfare of the People and State of Israel, especially through the survival of the Ethiopian Jewish community now living in Israel. He served on the Commission of Social Action of Reform Judaism, on the board of ARZA / World Union, North American Board, as President (and now President Emeritus) of the Scholarship Fund for Ethiopian Jews, and as the Rabbinic Advisor of the Jewish Genetic Disease Consortium, the Canavan Foundation as chair of The Central Conference of American Rabbi’s Taskforce on Jewish Genetic Disease. He was the recipient of the UAHC’s Fund for Reform Judaism Distinguished Service Award, a NFTY Life Membership awarded in 1984 and, in 2007, he was awarded the Central Conference of American Rabbi’s Rabbi Samuel Cook Award for Lifetime Service to Youth Work and, as he retired, Temple Emanu-El awarded him the Temple Emanu-El 2001 Shofar Award for his life-long work in the area of Social Justice and Tikkun Olam.
Rabbi Kasdan and his wife Sheila have lived in Longboat Key, Florida since 2002. There he continues his life-long service to both the Jewish and general community. He is Past-Chair of the Longboat Key Policeman’s Pension Board and currently serves as Secretary of the Longboat Key Consolidated Pension Board and, because of Florida State requirements, is now a Certified Public Pension Trustee. He served as President of his condo association and currently serves on the Bioethics Committee of the Sarasota Memorial Hospital. He also serves as Chair of the Speakers Committee at his and Sheila’s local congregation, Temple Beth Israel of Longboat Key.
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/12/2024: Rabbi Peter Kasdan and Dr. Liz Etkin-Kramer from Yodeah.org, providing genetic cancer counseling for Jewish families appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s ENCORE broadcast of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, South Jersey resident Bill Fisher discusses his wife Carol’s terminal illness and decision to use New Jersey’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) option.
Carol had been a nationally recognized book editor until her retirement in 2016. (You can read her obituary in the Philadelphia Inquirer here.)
Their lives took a dramatic change back in fall 2016, when Carol was diagnosed with brain cancer. Luckily Carol was able to take advantage of a clinical trial at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. She responded well to the experimental vaccine which kept her cancer in check for 7 years. Less than 10% of patients with this form of cancer ever survive this long.
However, in the past year, the Carol’s cancer re-emerged and difficult decisions needed to be considered for the final months of Carol’s life.
Luckily Carol’s faith and support from medical professionals, family and friends helped Carol and Bill navigate the difficult decisions necessary in participating in New Jersey’s Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) program.
With a diagnosis of less than 6 months to live and diminishing functionality, Carol chose to end her life in the comfort of her own home in the presence of her family.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service
You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestBill FisherBill Fisher is a retired real estate executive who was trained as an architect and spent most of his professional life managing the planning, design and construction of commercial, industrial and medical buildings in the mid-Atlantic and Southwest United States and London, England. He currently resides in South Jersey where he and his wife, Carol Fisher raised their two children Haddon and Lauren.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST: Seekers of Meaning 3/8/2024: Bill Fisher discusses Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Joel Soffin discusses his new book, The Mitzvah on Your Forehead: A Rabbi’s Journey to Improve the World.
In The Mitzvah on Your Forehead, Rabbi Joel E. Soffin presents life stories that invite the reader to follow his journey as he shares his experiences and insights into family, community, and social action worldwide. Luminaries in the Jewish world as well as inspirational leaders from all walks of life provide commentary on each of his essays. From discussing personal ethical decisions to relating experiences such as those with Rwandan genocide widows and Ethiopian Jewish immigrants, the stories and essays in this book are thought-provoking, entertaining, and inspirational. Rabbi Soffin contends that each one of us has a unique mitzvah “on our forehead,” a special calling or ability to make life better for others. Here, you’ll discover many of them and perhaps, ultimately, your own. In a world where there is so much chaos and pain, this book is a helpful reminder that we all, both individually and collectively, can find ways to be of service in making the world a better place.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Joel E. SoffinRabbi Joel E. Soffin has been a life-long social activist, addressing the needs of the poor and the vulnerable in many places around the world. He initially studied economics and has a PhD pending at Yale.
In 1971, he began his studies for the rabbinate at Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City where he was ordained in 1976. Three years later, he became the Rabbi of Temple Shalom in Succasunna, NJ. While there, he developed a long series of social action projects, rescuing and resettling Vietnamese boat people and Soviet Refuseniks, supporting the Argentinian Jewish community of Mendoza and the Zvenigorodka community of Ukraine and providing over a million meals to Ethiopian Jewish children waiting to make aliyah to Israel.
Rabbi Soffin also created the Adult Mitzvah Corps of the Reform Movement and the teen Bonim Banim – Building Youth projects, organizing weeks of Jewish Religious Living in New Orleans and several other American cities, including home building and restoration projects.
Upon his retirement from Temple Shalom in 2006, generous donors enabled him to create Jewish Helping Hands to continue his important social action work around the world, especially in East Africa and Israel. He often serves as a teacher, mentor and Scholar-in-Residence.
He has been at the Barnert Temple in Franklin Lakes, NJ, since 2006, serving as Sabbatical Rabbi, Torah and Talmud teacher.
In his recent book, The Mitzvah on Your Forehead, he and some of his fellow travelers reflect on his personal and professional experiences and the lessons he has learned along the way. . Rabbi Soffin attributes his passion for social action and all of Jewish life to his mother, Sarah Soffin, may she rest in peace. He has been married to Sandy for more than fifty-five years. They have two sons and six grandchildren.
The post Seekers of Meaning 3/29/2024: Rabbi Joel Soffin, author of “The Mitzvah on Your Forehead” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Linda Fodrini-Johnson, author of The Empowered Caregiver: Practical Advice and Emotional Support for Adult Children of Aging Parents, discusses strategies for families to engage in elder care discussions and decision-making.
Taking responsibility for the healthcare, safety, and financial affairs of our parents as they near the end of their life is an immense undertaking and comes with challenges, logistics, and stresses that we don’t always know how to navigate. We want to provide the best care we can and make the right decisions for our parents, but we need tips, tools, and education around this and help and encouragement as we do it. The Empowered Caregiver is a pocket support guide specifically designed to provide you with strategies and solutions for caring for your aging parents. It offers useful interventions to frame your thinking, help you manage difficult situations, and reduce your stress as your parents decline and need greater assistance.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLinda Fodrini-JohnsonLinda Fodrini-Johnson became a licensed family therapist and professional certified care manager in 1984, was president of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers—now called Aging Life Care Association—and founded Eldercare Services, a full-service care agency in the San Francisco Bay Area that provides care management, home care/caregiving services, advocacy, counseling, support groups and education. She was director of the Dementia Respite Center—one of the first in the San Francisco Bay Area—and pioneered the multi-award-winning Early Stage of Dementia Program.
Her eldercare expertise has been featured in newspapers like the Contra Costa Times, East Bay Business Times and San Francisco Business Times as well as national magazines including Consumer Reports, Forbes, Kiplinger’s, USA Today and The Wall Street Journal.
The post Seekers of Meaning 3/22/2024: Linda Fodrini-Johnson, author of “The Empowered Caregiver” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Dayle Friedman, founder and director of GrowingOlder.net, a resource website for seniors, discusses her practice in Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia care for elders.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Dayle FriedmanRabbi Dayle is a spiritual guide, social innovator, chaplain, and scholar. She has been a leader in the fields of spirituality and aging, pastoral care, and Jewish healing. She is currently Special Advisor for Member Support and Counseling for the Central Conference of American Rabbis.
Her publications include Jewish Wisdom for Growing Older: Finding Your Grit and Grace Beyond Midlife, and Jewish End-of-Life Care in a Virtual Age: Our Traditions Reimagined, which she co-edited. Her first book, Jewish Pastoral Care: A Practical Handbook from Traditional and Contemporary Sources,is recognized as a foundational text for its field.
Rabbi Dayle was ordained by HUC-JIR; she earned Masters’ degrees in Social Work and Jewish Communal Service from USC and HUC-LA. She trained as a spiritual director with Yedidya Center’s Moreh Derekh program, and as an interim clergy person with the Interim Ministry Network. Her work has been recognized with awards from the Forward, the American Society on Aging, and Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, South Jersey resident Bill Fisher discusses his wife Carol’s terminal illness and decision to use New Jersey’s Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) option.
Carol had been a nationally recognized book editor until her retirement in 2016. (You can read her obituary in the Philadelphia Inquirer here.)
Their lives took a dramatic change back in fall 2016, when Carol was diagnosed with brain cancer. Luckily Carol was able to take advantage of a clinical trial at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. She responded well to the experimental vaccine which kept her cancer in check for 7 years. Less than 10% of patients with this form of cancer ever survive this long.
However, in the past year, the Carol’s cancer re-emerged and difficult decisions needed to be considered for the final months of Carol’s life.
Luckily Carol’s faith and support from medical professionals, family and friends helped Carol and Bill navigate the difficult decisions necessary in participating in New Jersey’s Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) program.
With a diagnosis of less than 6 months to live and diminishing functionality, Carol chose to end her life in the comfort of her own home in the presence of her family.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service
You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestBill FisherBill Fisher is a retired real estate executive who was trained as an architect and spent most of his professional life managing the planning, design and construction of commercial, industrial and medical buildings in the mid-Atlantic and Southwest United States and London, England. He currently resides in South Jersey where he and his wife, Carol Fisher raised their two children Haddon and Lauren.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Stephen Goldfine, MD, chief medical officer of Samaritan Health and a palliative care physician, discusses how seniors can avoid adverse drug interactions, and the emerging options for palliative care.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestStephen Goldfine, MD, DABFP, CAQGM, DABHPChief Medical Officer, SamaritanStephen Goldfine, MD, DABFP, CAQGM, DABHP, is a palliative care physician with more than 30 years of experience. Since 2003, he has served as the full-time chief medical officer where he oversees the care of all Samaritan’s patients in hospice care, palliative medicine, and primary care at home. In addition to his role on Samaritan’s Senior Leadership Team, Dr. Goldfine also serves as Samaritan’s liaison with the medical community and provides direct care for patients at home, at hospitals and long-term care communities.
Dr. Goldfine is certified by both the American Board of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and the American Board of Family Practice, with added qualifications in geriatrics and hospice and palliative medicine.
An articulate and engaging speaker, Dr. Goldfine has presented a range of educational workshops to healthcare professionals and the public through collaborations with the Goals of Care Coalition of New Jersey, the New Jersey Hospital Association, New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute, Medical Society of New Jersey, and the Home Care & Hospice Association of New Jersey. Dr. Goldfine provided keynote presentations for the New Jersey Healthcare Leadership Academy, New Jersey Academy of Family Physicians, National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s Leadership and Management Conference. Dr. Goldfine serves on the National Partnership for Healthcare & Hospice Innovation’s Physician Forum. Dr. Goldfine completed Faculty Training with VitalTalk, an organization nurturing healthier communication between clinicians and patients on advance care planning, serious illness, and end-of-life care options.
Dr. Goldfine has been a frequent choice as a Top Doc by SJ Magazine and a Top Physician by South Jersey Magazine.
Dr. Goldfine received his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, and his undergraduate degree from Emory University in Atlanta.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Steven Cohen (right), founder and board chairman, and Clayton Platt (center), director of outreach with Mediation4Leadership.org describe the nonprofit organization’s meditation programs that benefit individuals and organizations.
Meditation and mindfulness teaching is a growing part of corporate wellness and leadership development initiatives. Meditation4Leadership teaches essential skills for individuals to cultivate greater awareness, connection, perspective and potential in their lives, to improve their professional and personal effectiveness, and to thrive in adversity as well as good times.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsSteven CohenSteven is the founder and chairman of the board of trustees of Meditation4Leadership.org. He is the author if Leading From Within: A Guide to Maximizing Your Effectiveness Through Meditation.The book has now been read by thousands of people and links 13 key leadership traits with associated meditations. His goal is to enlighten readers in understanding how incorporating meditation practices applied to key leadership traits improves personal and organizational focus.
Clayton PlattClayton Platt joined Meditation4Leadership in 2020 following completion of a two year meditation teacher training program, while also serving as a facilitator for virtual digital learning programs. At the time, Clayton was facilitating a Friday morning meditation group and organizing discussions around mindfulness for racial justice and inclusion. Clayton and M4L colleague Lisa Gonzalez worked in coordination with DEI Consultant Lourdes Tango to develop our program: Leading from Awareness: the Power of Inclusion and continues to develop innovative content to meet client business needs.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the second in a series on health issues for seniors. This week’s guest is Meredith Becker, chief operating office of Lions Gate CCRC, a retirement community in Voorhees, New Jersey, who discusses the process of planning for care for seniors.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
https://vimeo.com/912950154?share=copyListen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestMeredith Becker, MHSA, LNHAMeredith Becker, MHSA, LNHA is the Chief Operating Officer at Lions Gate. Meredith has spent over 20 years in the senior living field. She has held a variety of positions including Director of Sales and Marketing, Assistant Administrator, and Executive Director. Meredith holds a BA in Communication and a Masters in Healthcare Administration, with a concentration in Long Term Care Management, both from The George Washington University. In addition, Meredith holds a Nursing Home Administrators License in the State of New Jersey.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address discusses the challenges facing Reform and Progressive rabbis in Israel in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks with Rabbi Efrat Rotem, executive director of MARAM, the Council of Progressive Rabbis representing liberal Jewish clergy in Israel.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Efrat RotemRabbi Efrat Rotem serves as a rabbi in central Israel and as the executive director of Maram – the Council of Reform Rabbis in Israel. She was ordained through the Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem in 2015. She served as the rabbi of Kehilat HaLev in Tel Aviv. She is a queer environmental activist who integrates Jewish pluralism, critical feminism, and queer identity and worldview into her work as a rabbi. In addition, she holds an MA in Literature from Tel Aviv University and is a translator and editor.
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/2/2024: Rabbi Efrat Rotem, director of MARAM, the Council of Progressive Rabbis in Israel appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, David Raphael and Jane Shapiro discuss the Jewish Grandparents Network. The network envisions a Jewish world that embraces grandparents as vital to our families, our communities, and our future.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsDavid RaphaelDavid Raphael is the co-founder and CEO of the Jewish Grandparents Network. A graduate of Albany University and the Columbia University School of Social Work, David spent 30 years in Hillel including roles as Assistant International Director, Executive Director of Hillel of Greater Baltimore and Senior Campus Liaison for Hillel International. David was also the founding Executive Director of the Floortime Foundation and the Executive Director of the Maryland Teen Initiative. David and his wife Jo live in Atlanta, have three grown children, two grandchildren, and Maddie the dog. Contact David at david@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org
Jane ShapiroA founder of Orot: Center for New Jewish Learning where she teaches a variety of classes and workshops blending text study with other intentional practices. Jane is a graduate of the Mandel Teachers Institute and Vision Projects. Growing up in a family of four girls, Jane wondered what it would like to have a brother. As the mother of four sons and as Bubbie to five grandsons she now knows the answer: it is full of commotion and fun.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin discusses his new book, Tikkun Ha’am / Repairing Our People: Israel and the Crisis of Liberal Judaism, and the rising worldwide tide of antisemitism and Jewish support for Israel.
About the BookContemporary Judaism is facing unprecedented challenges. Today’s Jews have the opportunity—and the obligation—to reclaim a Jewish vocabulary of sanctity, activism, and the desire to stand apart from today’s world.
October 7, 2023 was not just one of the most tragic days in modern Jewish history; it represented a profound moral and spiritual challenge to liberal Jewish denominations in America.
It’s a challenge Jews have faced before, and we rose to the occasion; but are Jews of today up to the challenge? We have the opportunity—and the obligation—to reclaim a Jewish vocabulary of sanctity, activism, and the desire to stand apart from today’s world.
Tikkun Ha’am/Repairing Our People is a cry from the heart by one of American Judaism’s most prolific voices. His message: the role of faith is to challenge us as individuals and to challenge society. Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin challenges us to rethink contemporary Jewish identity, Israel, spirituality, and popular culture. Rabbi Salkin invites readers to think deeply about the contemporary world, showing that Judaism has a stake in our world’s political, religious, and cultural battles.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Jeffrey SalkinRabbi Jeffrey Salkin is one of American Judaism’s most prolific rabbis — described as “courageous,” “always relevant,” and “one of American Judaism’s true public intellectuals.”
His column, “Martini Judaism: for those who want to be shaken and stirred,” published by the Religion News Service, has won several Wilbur awards for best religion column of the year. “Martini Judaism” also appears as a podcast. He delivered the keynote on spirituality at the Chautauqua Institution, and has participated in interreligious dialogue with Christian and Muslim religious leaders.
His essays have appeared in the Washington Post, Commentary, the Wall Street Journal, Tablet, Forward, and JTA. He has appeared on CNN and the BBC. He has contributed to scholarly volumes and encyclopedias. His eleven books have inspired vigorous conversations on such subjects as Jewish identity and culture, Israel, and gender, and he has written three Torah commentaries.
His new book is Tikkun Ha’Am: Repairing Our People – Israel and the Crisis of Liberal Judaism. Rabbi David Wolpe of Los Angeles has said of the book: “Tikkun Ha’am” proves once again that Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin is among the wisest observers of our society and our souls — a Rabbi who writes with humor, depth and clarity.” He is currently writing a book for the Reform movement — a commentary for teens on Shabbat liturgy.
Rabbi Salkin lives in West Palm Beach, Florida, and devotes his time to writing, biking, his friends and family, and consuming vast quantities of coffee.
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Rabbi Address was a guest on the “Be Wholly” video podcast hosted by Rabbi Ben Vineburg, BCC. You can watch the conversation in the player below.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Ari Rosenblatt, a rising junior at the University of Wisconsin. Ari, the granddaughter of JewishSacredAging.com contributing writer Sandy Taradash, is active in Hillel and other Jewish organizations on campus, and discussed her recent experiences with antisemitism in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestAri RosenblattAri is originally from Northern California, but currently is completing her sophomore year at the University of Wisconsin where she is studying Sociology and Communications with certificates in Jewish Studies and Design Strategy. Ari spent 10 years at Camp Newman as a camper and counselor, and served as local and regional president of the National Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY). She currently works for Hillel as a program creator for alumni fundraising.
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On this week’s encore broadcast episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address discusses the new book, The Year of Mourning: A Jewish Journey, with its editors, Rabbi Lisa Grant, Director of the New York Rabbinical Program and Eleanor Sinsheimer Distinguished Service Professor in Jewish Education Coordinator, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, cantor of Kolot Chayeinu in Brooklyn, NY.
The Jewish mourning process is a voyage through pain, brokenness, comfort, resilience, acceptance, and even gratitude. The Year of Mourning: A Jewish Journey offers an expansive array of resources—stories, songs, study texts, poetry, and prayers—to lovingly and patiently guide the bereaved through the first year after their loss. Each week the mourner is encouraged to focus on a particular theme to deepen their Kaddish practice. The book also includes new rituals for shivah, sh’loshim, unveiling, and yahrzeit. The Year of Mourning helps support individuals to regain their grounding after loss and, through the richness of Jewish tradition, deepen their connections to memories of loved ones and to others in the community who are walking a similar path.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
We also maintain a complete playlist of Seekers of Meaning TV Show episodes on YouTube.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Lisa Grant, Ph.D.Rabbi Lisa D. Grant, Ph.D., serves as Director of the Rabbinical Program at HUC-JIR/New York. Her research and teaching interests focus on adult Jewish learning, the professional development of Jewish leaders and the place of Israel in American Jewish life. She has published widely on these topics in a range of academic journals, books, and teaching guides.
Rabbi Grant has served on the faculty of HUC-JIR since 2000. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, her Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and her Ph.D. from The Jewish Theological Seminary in New York; and her rabbinical ordination from HUC-JIR.
Cantor Lisa B. SegalCantor Lisa B. Segal is a founding member of Kolot, where she has served as co-and senior clergy for over 19 years. Cantor Segal was ordained in 2011 by the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR) and served as their Cantorial Director for two years (2012-14). With her unique voice and energy, Lisa leads Shabbat, holiday, and High Holy Day services and observances. In addition, she teaches, creates and leads all ranges of life cycle events to enhance Kolot members’ spiritual lives. She composes music, leads community events and regularly performs in concert, on Facebook, and on bimahs around the country.
Cantor Segal collaborates regularly with local Brooklyn and New York City Cantors and musicians in Jewish communal observances and holidays. During the first six months of the Pandemic she created and hosted a twice-weekly Facebook live session of song, meditation and reflections/Torah. Her original composition, Ratzo VaShov/Ebb and Flow, was featured at the opening of the 2021 ACC Convention, and she was commissioned to write a piece for T’ruah’s 2021 Gala, entitled Na’aseh V’Nishma, along with HUC-JIR Cantorial Student Ze’evi (Berman) Levtov. Notable performances include D’var Shirah – Music Meets Text at the Red Sea at the Eldridge Street Synagogue, a benefit she created and produced for the Academy for Jewish Religion, featuring spoken word artists and Jewish musicians in improvisation (music directed by Frank London of the Klezmatics), and Zero Church; the Prayer Project where she sang with The Roches at St. Ann’s Warehouse.
Cantor Segal has appeared in many concerts she created for Kolot – “Off the Bimah!” – with a range of notable and innovative Jewish musicians including Joey Weisenberg, Marty Ehrlich, Marc Ribot, Alicia Jo Rabins, Roy Nathanson, Alicia Svigals, and others, and has performed with numerous cantors and choirs throughout the New York metropolitan area and beyond.
She is an Associate Member of the ACC (American Conference of Cantors), an active alumni of AJR and Hevraya, the Institute for Jewish Spirituality’s Mindfulness meditation clergy cohort, and a longtime member of the Women Cantors Network. Lisa and her husband, writer and maggid Arthur “Ari” Strimling, live in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST 12/29/2023: Seekers of Meaning 8/4/2023: Rabbi Lisa Grant and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, “The Year of Mourning” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week, the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast features a panel discussion of antisemitism. Rabbi Address (upper left) welcomes guests (clockwise from upper right): Randi Boyette, associate regional director for education, Anti-Defamation League Philadelphia; Andrew Goretzky, regional director, ADL Philadelphia, and Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE, executive director of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators.On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, a panel of guests discuss the recent rise in antisemitism in the US following the October 7 Hamas-led mass murder of civilians in Israel. The guests are Andrew Goretzky, regional director of the Anti-Defamation League in Philadelphia; Randi Boyette, associate regional director for education, ADL; and Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE, executive director of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsAndrew M. GoretzkyAndrew M. Goretsky, Ed.D. was named Regional Director for ADL Philadelphia in January 2022. The ADL Philadelphia Regional Office serves eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and the entire state of Delaware. ADL and fights antisemitism and all forms of discrimination through education, advocacy and investigation.
Before joining ADL, Goretsky was Dean of Students at Arcadia University. While there he worked to promote justice, equity, diversity and inclusion through daily interactions with students, faculty, and staff, and by leading staff in the development of initiatives that served the needs of their diverse population.
Before joining Arcadia, Goretsky served on both the Committee for International Student Success and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at The George Washington University, serving as a member of the Multicultural Philosophy committee at the University of Maryland, and leading the Native American Special Interest residential community at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Goretsky began his career working with students with learning differences at Landmark College in Putney VT. He holds a Doctor of Education, Higher Education Administration from The George Washington University and a Master of Arts, Student Personnel Administration from New York University.
Randy BoyetteRandi Boyette is a Senior Associate Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League and has served as the ADL Education Director in Eastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey and Delaware since 2003. Her responsibilities include managing all of ADL’s anti-bias, anti-bullying, and cyberbullying programs; antisemitism education programming; and ADL Holocaust education initiatives.
Born, raised, and educated in Philadelphia, Randi holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Temple University and a master’s degree in Holocaust and Genocide Studies from Gratz College. She is the co-author of Let it Burn, a book about MOVE and the city of Philadelphia.
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJERabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE is Executive Director of the Assocation of Reform Jewish Educators. A lifelong learner, Stacy is passionate about inspiring excellence, advancing the field of Jewish education, and supporting fellow educators and students. Stacy served as Rabbi Educator for 17 years at Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel in Elkins Park, PA then went on to work as a Senior Program Manger for Jewish Education at the Foundation for Jewish Camp. She has also worked for as Jewish life advisor at URJ Camp Harlam. Stacy is on the volunteer leadership team of the Religious Action Center-PA, #Onward Hebrew, and serves on the URJ Camp Harlam Camp Council as well as the Union for Reform Judaism Board. She received her MAJE and Rabbinic ordination from HUC-JIR and her undergraduate degree from Emory University. When not at work Stacy volunteers her time with POWER (PA’s Faith in Action organization) and enjoys exercising and spending time with family and friends.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST, Seekers of Meaning 12/01/2023: Fighting Antisemitism with Educational Resources appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Gary Glickstein, co-executive vice president, discusses the mission of the National Association of Retired Reform Rabbis (NAORRR), and how retired Reform rabbis confront the challenges of aging and transitioning to new life stages.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Gary GlicksteinRabbi Gary A. Glickstein was the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Sholom in Miami, FL, between 1985-2018. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1971. He continued his education at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received his rabbinical ordination in 1974.
Rabbi Glickstein served as Assistant Rabbi of Congregation Bene Israel/Rockdale in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1974-1977 and then became Rabbi of Temple Sinai in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1977-1985.
In 1985, Rabbi Glickstein came to Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach as a vibrant, young scholar to serve as Senior Rabbi. His vitality and youthful approach have attracted many new members over the years as he has encouraged a greater involvement of the congregation in synagogue and Jewish life.
Rabbi Glickstein has distinguished himself as one of the leaders of the Miami community. He is the founding Executive Director of the Woldenberg Center for Jewish Life and serves on the advisory boards of the Lehrman Community Day School and the Greater Miami Coalition for a Drug Free Community. He is a board member and finance committee member of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. He serves as a board member for the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, is a board member and advisory board member for the Golden Care Foundation and is Past President of the Greater Miami Chapter Board of American Friends of the Hebrew University. Rabbi Glickstein is also Past President of the Rabbinical Association of Greater Miami.
Nationally, Rabbi Glickstein has distinguished himself as Past Chairman, Executive Committee of the UJA National Rabbinic Cabinet, Past Chairman and President of the National Rabbinic Cabinet of Israel Bonds and the Treasurer of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He is also a board member of the American Friends of ALYN Hospital.
Rabbi Glickstein’s commitment to the cross-cultural community in Miami is evidenced by his position as Past Chairman of the Religious Leaders Coalition and membership on the Executive Committee and Past Chair of the Education Committee for the Miami Coalition for a Drug Free Community. He is also a Past Board Member for the Miami Human Rights Commission and the Past Chairman of the Judaic Studies Advisory Committee to the president of Barry University.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/15/2023: Rabbi Gary Glickstein of the National Association of Retired Reform Rabbis (NAORRR) appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Cantor Judy Greenfeld discusses her spiritual journey as founder of the Nachshon Minyan in Los Angeles and as a “concierge rabbi.”
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Cantor Judy GreenfeldRabbi Cantor Judy Greenfeld is not your ordinary “Temple Rabbi.” She founded Nachshon Minyan in 2005, a spiritual and religious community geared toward unaffiliated Jews and Jews who want to update their negative feelings about Judaism.
After a successful career in fitness and wellness, and with a curiosity to explore the spirituality in the faith she was born into, Rabbi Judy enrolled in the Academy for Jewish Religion later in life. That is where she received her Cantorial ordination and a Master’s Degree in Jewish Sacred Music and Rabbinic ordination.
She is a current member of the California Board of Rabbis and serves on the Sandra Caplan Beit Din in Los Angeles. Rabbi Judy is also a lecturer and co-author (with Dr. Tamar Frankiel) of two books: Minding the Temple of the Soul and Entering the Temple of Dreams.
Both a teacher and healer, Rabbi Judy has built a following as a concierge Rabbi serving the Greater Los Angeles community. She weaves an array of healing practices, from dreamwork, meditation, breath work, healing through somatic dance, sound and sonic geometry and incorporates other ways to understand and open up the ancient scriptures and meaning of Torah, Mussar and Kabbalah. For more information on Rabbi Judy, please visit RabbiCantorJudy.org.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/8/2023: Rabbi Cantor Judy Greenfeld, “Concierge Rabbi” at Nachson Minyan, Los Angeles appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week, the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast features a panel discussion of antisemitism. Rabbi Address (upper left) welcomes guests (clockwise from upper right): Randi Boyette, associate regional director for education, Anti-Defamation League Philadelphia; Andrew Goretzky, regional director, ADL Philadelphia, and Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE, executive director of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators.On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, a panel of guests discuss the recent rise in antisemitism in the US following the October 7 Hamas-led mass murder of civilians in Israel. The guests are Andrew Goretzky, regional director of the Anti-Defamation League in Philadelphia; Randi Boyette, associate regional director for education, ADL; and Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE, executive director of the Association of Reform Jewish Educators.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsAndrew M. GoretzkyAndrew M. Goretsky, Ed.D. was named Regional Director for ADL Philadelphia in January 2022. The ADL Philadelphia Regional Office serves eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and the entire state of Delaware. ADL and fights antisemitism and all forms of discrimination through education, advocacy and investigation.
Before joining ADL, Goretsky was Dean of Students at Arcadia University. While there he worked to promote justice, equity, diversity and inclusion through daily interactions with students, faculty, and staff, and by leading staff in the development of initiatives that served the needs of their diverse population.
Before joining Arcadia, Goretsky served on both the Committee for International Student Success and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at The George Washington University, serving as a member of the Multicultural Philosophy committee at the University of Maryland, and leading the Native American Special Interest residential community at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Goretsky began his career working with students with learning differences at Landmark College in Putney VT. He holds a Doctor of Education, Higher Education Administration from The George Washington University and a Master of Arts, Student Personnel Administration from New York University.
Randy BoyetteRandi Boyette is a Senior Associate Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League and has served as the ADL Education Director in Eastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey and Delaware since 2003. Her responsibilities include managing all of ADL’s anti-bias, anti-bullying, and cyberbullying programs; antisemitism education programming; and ADL Holocaust education initiatives.
Born, raised, and educated in Philadelphia, Randi holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Temple University and a master’s degree in Holocaust and Genocide Studies from Gratz College. She is the co-author of Let it Burn, a book about MOVE and the city of Philadelphia.
Rabbi Stacy Rigler, RJERabbi Stacy Rigler, RJE is Executive Director of the Assocation of Reform Jewish Educators. A lifelong learner, Stacy is passionate about inspiring excellence, advancing the field of Jewish education, and supporting fellow educators and students. Stacy served as Rabbi Educator for 17 years at Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel in Elkins Park, PA then went on to work as a Senior Program Manger for Jewish Education at the Foundation for Jewish Camp. She has also worked for as Jewish life advisor at URJ Camp Harlam. Stacy is on the volunteer leadership team of the Religious Action Center-PA, #Onward Hebrew, and serves on the URJ Camp Harlam Camp Council as well as the Union for Reform Judaism Board. She received her MAJE and Rabbinic ordination from HUC-JIR and her undergraduate degree from Emory University. When not at work Stacy volunteers her time with POWER (PA’s Faith in Action organization) and enjoys exercising and spending time with family and friends.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/01/2023: Fighting Antisemitism with Educational Resources appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi David Levin discusses his recent visit to Israel with a delegation from the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. The group spent 56 hours on the ground in Israel getting briefings and touring the sites of the October 7 Hamas-led massacres of Israeli civilians.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi David LevinRabbi David Levin is the founder and manages Jewish Relationships Initiative, a 501c3, dedicated to helping seekers of meaning through Jewish wisdom, focusing on relationships and end-of-life challenges. He teaches nationally on these topics and maintains the following websites: www.RabbiDavidLevin.com and www.EthicalLegacy.com, sharing his work with others.
His book Jewish End Of Life Care In A Virtual Age: Our Traditions Reimagined is available through Amazon;https://amzn.to/35uk5.
Rabbi David served as the Red Cross Regional Leader of the Disaster Spiritual Care team, and on the Covid-19 Taskforce of Neshama, Association of Jewish Chaplains through the pandemic.
He currently serves on the JCRC Board and is co-chair of the Domestic Affairs Committee. Rabbi David also serves on the Executive Committee of the Philadelphia Board of Rabbis as VP. Rabbi David serves on the Regional Board of NIF.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Sarah Bassin, director of clergy and congregations for HIAS, discusses the organization’s long history of helping refugees and immigrants.
HIAS, originally the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, provides vital services to refugees and asylum seekers around the world and advocates for their fundamental rights so they can rebuild their lives. The agency focuses on refugee rights and resettlement, legal support, economic inclusion, community mental health, and emergencies worldwide. Its services are not limited to the Jewish community.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Sarah BassinRabbi Sarah Bassin serves as the Director of Clergy and Congregations for HIAS where she helps connect synagogues and their spiritual leaders to the work of aiding and advocating for refugees and asylum seekers. Prior to this role, she was the associate rabbi at Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills where she drove congregation-based justice work.
She began her rabbinate as the founding executive director of NewGround: A Muslim-Jewish Partnership for Change where she built minority-based coalitions. Under her leadership, NewGround was named one of the 50 most innovative Jewish organizations in the United States by Slingshot Guide and was recognized by Governor Jerry Brown of California as the state’s faith-based organization of the year in 2013.
Rabbi Bassin’s demonstrated track record of anticipating trends in political and communal change is coupled with the courage to help lead communities through thoughtful processes of intentional transformation. She now serves on the boards of NewGround and UpStart — a national organization that has helped over 100 innovative Jewish nonprofits launch or scale up. She also serves on the advisory boards of the New Israel Fund, Hand in Hand Schools, the Jewish Center for Justice, and Tivnu: Building Justice.
Rabbi Bassin has built an expertise in interfaith civilian diplomacy, traveling with elite delegations of faith and political leaders to England, France, Germany, Qatar, Azerbaijan, and Iran. For her work, she was named a fellow of Security and Religious Freedom at the UCLA Burkle Center for International Relations. NPR’s On Being featured Rabbi Bassin for her organizational innovation and interfaith work.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Lisa Niver discusses her book, Brave-ish, One Break-up, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.
Although Lisa Niver has traveled in far-off locales from Vanuatu to Nepal and received numerous accolades for both her writing and her top ranked website, what people don’t realize is that this began from the wreckage of a rotten romance.
Newlywed Niver was on the adventure of a lifetime. She had quit her job, rented out her condo, and was traveling around Asia. To the outside world, Niver was a woman living out her dreams of exploring ancient ruins in Cambodia and seeing orangutans in Borneo. In private, she was keeping a dark secret. But, when she found herself lying on a sidewalk in Thailand, looking up at the sky in severe pain, she knew things had to change. At age forty-seven, Niver found the courage to set course on a new life.
Feeling like a failure, pushing fifty, and moving home to her parents’ house to start again from scratch, Niver started taking one tiny “brave-ish” step at a time to take her life far away from the old one and into the adventurous world of travel writing. These small hurdles led to the challenge of trying fifty new things before turning fifty. From diving into shipwrecks, swimming with sharks, bobsledding at three g’s, to indulging in wild escapades, Niver found herself traversing the world on a journey of reinvention, personal growth, and discovering what it actually means to be “brave.”
While Brave-ish chronicles Niver’s inspiring expeditions to distant corners of the world including Myanmar, Cuba, Morocco, Kenya and Mongolia this is more than a travelogue. Niver’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance. Brave-ish inspires readers to dream big, take risks, and embrace the unknown to create a life filled with wonder and excitement, even when courage seems elusive.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestPhoto by Judith Gigliotti. Used by permission.Lisa NiverLisa Niver is an award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries on six continents. This University of Pennsylvania graduate sailed across the seas for seven years with Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Renaissance Cruises and spent three years backpacking across Asia. Discover her articles in publications from AARP: The Magazine and AAA Explorer to WIRED and Wharton Magazine, as well as her site WeSaidGoTravel.
On her award nominated global podcast, Make Your Own Map, Niver has interviewed Deepak Chopra, Olympic medalists, and numerous bestselling authors, and as a journalist has been invited to both the Oscars and the United Nations. For her print and digital stories as well as her television segments, she has been awarded three Southern California Journalism Awards and two National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards and been a finalist twenty-two times.
Named a #3 travel influencer for 2023, Niver talks travel on broadcast television at KTLA TV Los Angeles, her YouTube channel with over 2 million views, and in her memoir, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Sarah McCaslin, executive director and therapist at the Psychotherapy and Spirituality Institute, discusses the institute’s training, therapy, and consulting services that support the emotional and spiritual health of the community.
Chief among PSI’s continuing education programs are our Annual Certificate in Spiritually-Informed Psychotherapies, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) for Clinicians.
In its therapy, PSI has always believed what current studies in neuroscience are discovering: that our natural inclination towards meaning making, originally seen in forms of ritual, and later through more formal expressions of spirituality and religion, is a crucial part of healing and creating a sense of wellbeing. In addition to specific mental health conditions, there are many aspects of society that can disrupt our sense of who we are and contribute to personal conflict and strife. PSI clinicians are prepared to explore and support every facet of what we need to feel whole – in mind, body, and spirit. PSI clinicians are at the forefront of their treatment modalities and strive to create a compassionate space for healing. We sincerely believe that care and acceptance transform us and the world we live in.
From a consulting standpoint, PSI practitioners were hands-on supporters through tremendous upheaval, which included navigating fiscal crises, the AID’s epidemic, the unthinkable aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks, and most recently, the Covid Pandemic. Each plight has given PSI an opportunity to serve those most vulnerable in our community, creating base knowledge and experience that continues to inform what it shares today.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestSarah McCaslin, MDiv, LCSWSarah McCaslin is devoted to fostering the human capacity for resilience, growth and meaning-making, even under the most daunting circumstances. She believes in the inherent spirituality of all people to be a resource for achieving healing and wholeness.
Her approach to therapy is collaborative and client-led. She incorporates mindfulness and compassion-based modes of treatment, as well as family systems and interpersonal neurobiology.
Sarah provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Many of her clients struggle with anxiety and depression related to self-identity, family conflict, spiritual/religious distress, substance abuse, history of trauma, acute or chronic grief, and sexuality/gender identity issues.
Sarah’s work with couples and families is informed by her training at the Ackerman Institute for the Family, from which she received an advanced, post-graduate certificate in couple/family therapy.
A licensed clinical social worker, Sarah has a social work degree in Advanced Clinical Practice from Columbia University, as well as a Masters of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary, both in New York City.
Sarah can be reached at smccaslin@psinyc.org and 929.382.4504. She arranges initial consultations to prospective clients free of charge.
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/3/2023: Sarah McCaslin discusses the work of the Psychotherapy and Spirituality Institute appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Michael Zedek discusses his new book, Taking Miracles Seriously: A Journey to Everyday Spirituality.
An accomplished storyteller with a refreshing, humorous voice, Rabbi Zedek draws on a range of materials including biblical tales, Indian and Japanese folklore, the works of St. Augustine, Einstein, Isaac Bashevis Singer, and Groucho Marx to take readers on a truly original search for spiritual sustenance in everyday life. Readers will learn how to identify and appreciate the miraculous in an often mundane world; how to take God seriously when much of the intellectual world doesn’t; and how to make the most out of underutilized spiritual resources such as poetry and prayer. Heartfelt and amusing, Taking Miracles Seriously is a master course on how to craft an enriched and enriching spiritual life.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestRabbi Michael ZedekBrooklyn-born Michael Zedek is rabbi emeritus of both B’nai Jehudah (Kansas City) and Emanuel Congregation (Chicago). He also served as the chief executive officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati (JFC); during his tenure, the Federation received national awards for innovative fundraising and programming. A dedicated community activist, scholar, and teacher Rabbi Zedek has received numerous awards including a Fulbright-Hays Grant. He was also honored by the National Conference of Christian and Jews. He is the founder and co-host of weekly radio show “Religion on the Line,” and a regular presenter at Rancho La Puerta, the oldest and most renowned spirituality spa center in North America.
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/27/2023: “Taking Miracles Seriously,” with Rabbi Michael Zedek appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Laurence Steinberg, Ph.D., a Distinguished University Professor and the Laura H. Carnell Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Temple University, discusses his new book, You and Your Adult Child: How to Grow Together in Challenging Times.
A much-needed guide for parents of people in their twenties and thirties from one of the world’s leading developmental psychologists. (Click image to order book.)
Your child is now an adult, but your job as a parent is far from over. Instead, your role must evolve to meet their ongoing, changing needs. But what exactly are these new needs? And why are they so different now than they were when you were a young adult?
This is the first comprehensive guide written for parents whose children are in two of the most crucial decades of life. Steinberg discusses topics as varied as whether and how you should be involved in your child’s college education, how to behave when they unexpectedly must move back home, how to state your opinion on their romantic partners, what to do when you disagree with the way they are raising their own child, and what parameters to apply if you want to give them money for a home or startup.
He answers such challenging questions as: When do I express my opinion and when should I bite my tongue? How do I know if my son is floundering? Is it okay to help my daughter with her grad school application? What should I do if my kid is getting seriously involved with someone I think is dangerous? We have been helping our twenty-five-year-old financially for the last few years, but how long is too long? How can I help my adult child through a difficult psychological time?
Leading psychologist Laurence Steinberg has devoted his forty-five-year career to researching parent-child relationships. Here, he provides some basic principles to help parents with adult children think more intelligently about common issues, avoid minefields, weather the inevitable ups and downs, and create a stronger, happier, more effective bond with their child.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestLaurence Steinberg, Ph.D. Laurence Steinberg, Ph.D., one of the world’s leading experts on adolescence, is a Distinguished University Professor and the Laura H. Carnell Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Temple University. He taught previously at Cornell University, the University of California, Irvine, and the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Dr. Steinberg is the author of nearly 500 articles and essays on development during the teenage years, and the author, co-author, or editor of 16 books. He has been a featured guest on numerous television programs, including CBS Morning News, Today, Good Morning America, 20/20, Dateline, PBS News Hour, VICE HBO,and The Oprah Winfrey Show, and is a frequent consultant on adolescence for print and electronic media, including the New York Times and NPR. He has also written for the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, USA Today, Slate, and Psychology Today. A graduate of Vassar College and Cornell University, Dr. Steinberg is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the American Psychological Association, and the Association for Psychological Science. His newest book isYou and Your Adult Child: How to Grow Together in Challenging Times.
Dr. Steinberg is a former President of the Division of Developmental Psychology of the American Psychological Association and of the Society for Research on Adolescence. He has been the recipient of numerous honors, including lifetime achievement awards from the American Psychological Association, the Association for Psychological Science, and the Society for Research on Adolescence. In 2009, he was named the first recipient of the Klaus J. Jacobs Research Prize for Productive Youth Development, one of the largest prizes ever awarded to a social scientist. In 2014 he received the Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award, a national teaching prize, for having inspired his former students to make a significant contribution to society.
A nationally and internationally renowned expert on psychological development during adolescence, Dr. Steinberg’s research has focused on a range of topics in the study of contemporary adolescence, including adolescent brain development, risk-taking and decision-making, parent-adolescent relationships, adolescent employment, high school reform, and juvenile justice. His work has been funded by a variety of public and private organizations, including the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U. S. Army, the MacArthur Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the William Penn Foundation, the William T. Grant Foundation, the Lilly Endowment, the Spencer Foundation, and the Ford Foundation. He has been a Faculty Scholar of the William T. Grant Foundation and was Director of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Research Network on Adolescent Development and Juvenile Justice.
Dr. Steinberg served as a member of the National Academies’ Panel on the Health Implications of Child Labor and the Board on Children, Youth, and Families and chaired the National Academies’ Committee on the Science of Adolescence. He has been a frequent consultant to state and federal agencies and lawmakers on child labor, secondary education, and juvenile justice policy and was the lead scientist on the amicus curiae briefs filed by the American Psychological Association in Roper v. Simmons, the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that abolished the juvenile death penalty, as well as several subsequent Supreme Court cases that placed limits on the use of life without parole as a sentence for juveniles. He has also provided expert testimony and consultation in a number of civil and criminal cases involving adolescent brain and psychological development.
More information is available at his website, https://www.laurencesteinberg.com/
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Connie Zweig discusses her book, Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path: The Dance of Darkness and Light in Our Search for Awakening
Explains why we are drawn to charismatic leaders, what we unconsciously give away to them, and how to reclaim our inner spiritual authority
Explores how to recover from spiritual abuse or betrayal by a teacher or group, including breaking free of denial, projection, and dependency using psychology and shadow-work
Extends #MeToo into the spiritual domain and tells the stories of contemporary clergy and spiritual leaders who acted out their shadows in destructive ways, leaving their followers traumatized and lost
Within each of us is a spiritual longing that prompts us to unite with something greater than ourselves, to awaken to our unity with all of life. Yet, no matter the spiritual path we choose, we inevitably encounter our own shadow, those unconscious aspects of ourselves that we suppress or deny, or the shadows of our teachers and their secret desires about money, sex, and power. Meeting the shadow can derail the journey, but, according to Connie Zweig, Ph.D., we can learn to recover from loss of faith and move from spiritual naivete to spiritual maturity.
Calling on us to expand our vision of religious and spiritual life — and our vision of awakening — to include the human shadow, Zweig examines the yearning that sets us on the spiritual path, showing how it can lead to ecstatic, transcendent experiences or to terrible suffering by projecting it onto an authoritarian teacher, priest, or guru who abuses power. She tells the stories of renowned teachers — Sufi poet Rumi, Hindu master Ramakrishna, and Christian saint Catherine of Siena — whose lives unfolded as they followed their spiritual yearning. And she tells the cautionary tales of contemporary teachers of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Catholicism, who acted out their shadows in devastating ways, leaving their followers traumatized and lost. She explains how meeting the shadow is a painful but inevitable stage on the path to a more mature spirituality. She describes how to use spiritual shadow-work to separate from abusive teachers, reclaim inner spiritual authority, and heal from betrayal.
With guidance for both inspired and disillusioned seekers, the author explores how to navigate the narrow path through the darkness toward the light, rekindle the flame of longing, and once again engage in fulfilling spiritual practice.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestConnie ZweigConnie Zweig, Ph.D. is a retired therapist and coauthor of Meeting the Shadow and Romancing the Shadow.Her award-winning book, The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul, extends her work on the Shadow into midlife and beyond and explores aging as a spiritual practice. It won the 2022 Gold COVR Award, the 2022 Gold Nautilus Award, the 2021 American Book Fest Award, and the 2021 Best Indie Book Award for best inspirational non-fiction. Her new book, Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path: The Dance of Darkness and Light in Our Search for Awakening, is available now. Connie has been doing contemplative practices for more than 50 years. She is a wife, stepmother, and grandmother. After all these roles, she’s practicing the shift from role to soul.
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/29/2023: Author Connie Zweig discusses her book, “Meeting the Shadow on the Spiritual Path” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week, we present a encore broadcast of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast.
In this program, Rabbi Address discusses the new book, The Year of Mourning: A Jewish Journey, with its editors, Rabbi Lisa Grant, Director of the New York Rabbinical Program and Eleanor Sinsheimer Distinguished Service Professor in Jewish Education Coordinator, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, cantor of Kolot Chayeinu in Brooklyn, NY.
The Jewish mourning process is a voyage through pain, brokenness, comfort, resilience, acceptance, and even gratitude. The Year of Mourning: A Jewish Journey offers an expansive array of resources—stories, songs, study texts, poetry, and prayers—to lovingly and patiently guide the bereaved through the first year after their loss. Each week the mourner is encouraged to focus on a particular theme to deepen their Kaddish practice. The book also includes new rituals for shivah, sh’loshim, unveiling, and yahrzeit. The Year of Mourning helps support individuals to regain their grounding after loss and, through the richness of Jewish tradition, deepen their connections to memories of loved ones and to others in the community who are walking a similar path.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
We also maintain a complete playlist of Seekers of Meaning TV Show episodes on YouTube.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestsRabbi Lisa Grant, Ph.D.Rabbi Lisa D. Grant, Ph.D., serves as Director of the Rabbinical Program at HUC-JIR/New York. Her research and teaching interests focus on adult Jewish learning, the professional development of Jewish leaders and the place of Israel in American Jewish life. She has published widely on these topics in a range of academic journals, books, and teaching guides.
Rabbi Grant has served on the faculty of HUC-JIR since 2000. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, her Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and her Ph.D. from The Jewish Theological Seminary in New York; and her rabbinical ordination from HUC-JIR.
Cantor Lisa B. SegalCantor Lisa B. Segal is a founding member of Kolot, where she has served as co-and senior clergy for over 19 years. Cantor Segal was ordained in 2011 by the Academy for Jewish Religion (AJR) and served as their Cantorial Director for two years (2012-14). With her unique voice and energy, Lisa leads Shabbat, holiday, and High Holy Day services and observances. In addition, she teaches, creates and leads all ranges of life cycle events to enhance Kolot members’ spiritual lives. She composes music, leads community events and regularly performs in concert, on Facebook, and on bimahs around the country.
Cantor Segal collaborates regularly with local Brooklyn and New York City Cantors and musicians in Jewish communal observances and holidays. During the first six months of the Pandemic she created and hosted a twice-weekly Facebook live session of song, meditation and reflections/Torah. Her original composition, Ratzo VaShov/Ebb and Flow, was featured at the opening of the 2021 ACC Convention, and she was commissioned to write a piece for T’ruah’s 2021 Gala, entitled Na’aseh V’Nishma, along with HUC-JIR Cantorial Student Ze’evi (Berman) Levtov. Notable performances include D’var Shirah – Music Meets Text at the Red Sea at the Eldridge Street Synagogue, a benefit she created and produced for the Academy for Jewish Religion, featuring spoken word artists and Jewish musicians in improvisation (music directed by Frank London of the Klezmatics), and Zero Church; the Prayer Project where she sang with The Roches at St. Ann’s Warehouse.
Cantor Segal has appeared in many concerts she created for Kolot – “Off the Bimah!” – with a range of notable and innovative Jewish musicians including Joey Weisenberg, Marty Ehrlich, Marc Ribot, Alicia Jo Rabins, Roy Nathanson, Alicia Svigals, and others, and has performed with numerous cantors and choirs throughout the New York metropolitan area and beyond.
She is an Associate Member of the ACC (American Conference of Cantors), an active alumni of AJR and Hevraya, the Institute for Jewish Spirituality’s Mindfulness meditation clergy cohort, and a longtime member of the Women Cantors Network. Lisa and her husband, writer and maggid Arthur “Ari” Strimling, live in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
The post ENCORE BROADCAST 9/22/2023: Seekers of Meaning 8/4/2023: Rabbi Lisa Grant and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, “The Year of Mourning” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address offers a high holy days message as we approach the start of Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year 5784.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, psychologist, author and radio talk show host Dr. Dan Gottlieb continues a multi-show discussion of the introspective month of Elul, which prefaces the Jewish High Holiday season.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Amazon Music About the GuestDr. Dan GottliebDan began his practice in 1969 after receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees at Temple University. As a young psychologist, his early career specialized in addictions where he ultimately was the director of a community based treatment program in Philadelphia. He was also a graduate of the highly respected Family Institute of Philadelphia, a program that later elected him as president.
During this time he became a respected clinician, teacher and supervisor of psychiatrists, psychologists and clinical social workers. He taught at Hahnemann University and consulted and taught with most of the universities throughout the region.
Personally, he was happily married and had loved being a father to his young daughters. However, his early successes were tragically interrupted.
In 1979 Dan was in a near fatal automobile accident which left him paralyzed from the chest down. As expected, there were years of despair and depression. He experienced loss on top of loss as his wife left the marriage and passed away several years later. And in the ensuing years he mourned the loss of his sister and his parents. And for the last three decades, he has been observing life with what he calls “a curious mind and an open heart.” In doing so, he has learned valuable lessons about what it means to be human and how adversity can teach us how to live better and love better.
Despite this adversity, he resumed his private practice which was to grow substantially over the next several decades. In addition to his practice, he has continued to lecture, train and supervise a variety of healthcare professionals.
From 1985 until last year, Daniel Gottlieb hosted “Voices in the Family,” an award-winning mental health call-in radio show aired on WHYY 90.9 FM, Philadelphia’s NPR affiliate. He stepped down from his weekly show and now does six specials a year in front of live audiences.
Because of his life achievements including Letters to Sam, which was a best seller in Taiwan, Dan was given the “Fervent Love of Life” award by the President of Taiwan, captured in the picture above.
His most recent book, The Wisdom We’re Born With: Restoring Faith In Ourselves, was released in 2015, to rave reviews from mental health professionals around the country. All of his royalties from all of his books have been donated to children’s charities locally and internationally.
In addition to his writing and radio show, he delivered over 1000 lectures all over the world on a variety of topics affecting the well-being of people, families and the larger community.
As a result of his accomplishments, he has received awards from the Pennsylvania Psychological Association, the American Psychological Association, the Center for Mental Health Services, the Philadelphia Society of Clinical Psychologists, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Association, the Council for Relationships and many more.
The essence of his philosophy can be found on his business card. After his name there are no degrees and no fancy titles. His card simply says “Daniel Gottlieb. Human.”
Through personal and professional experience, Dan has learned that our greatest suffering is alienation and loneliness. That is these powerful emotions can produce prejudice, hatred, violence, withdrawal and depression. He has learned that all humans long for human contact, compassion and understanding. And without compassion, our spirits wither.
When asked to summarize his life’s work, he says simply: “I teach kindness.”
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New York filmmaker, animator, artist, classical guitarist, and teacher Hanan Harchol has released “Awe,” the latest in his animated series of educational films in the “Jewish Food for Thought” series.
“Opportunities to experience awe exist everywhere. Awe enriches our lives, creating openings for meaning, love, joy, wisdom, and connection to a mystery larger than ourselves,” says Harchol. “Too often, however, we don’t pay attention, and we miss these life-enriching opportunities. The animation examines the importance of awe and suggests ways to help us bring awareness to everyday wonders.”
You can watch the latest Hanan Harchol animation in the player below. You can get more information and subscribe for free to his animation series at https://www.hananharchol.com/.
Harchol was a guest on the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast in January 2023 to discuss his work.
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On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Mark Levin, Founding Rabbi and Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Beth Torah in Overland Park, KS, kicks off a multipart discussion of the meaning of reflection in the month of Elul as we prepare for the High Holy Days. Other guests in coming weeks will also reflect on the holiest season of the Jewish calendar. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/01/2023: Rabbi Mark Levin Reflects on the Month of Elul and Preparation for the High Holy Days appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Sandy Akselrad, spiritual leader of Congregation Ner Tamid, Henderson, NV, discusses his new book, Love in the Time of Corona. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/23/2023: Rabbi Sandy Akselrad discusses his book, “Love in the Time of Corona” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address holds a panel discussion with several participants in the recent "Re-Charging Reform" conference held at the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York, sponsored by the synagogue's senior rabbi, Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch. [Read more...]
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Marla Feldman discusses her new book, Biblical Women Speak: Hearing Their Voices through New and Ancient Midrash. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/11/2023: Rabbi Marla Feldman, author of Biblical Women Speak appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address discusses the new book, The Year of Mourning: A Jewish Journey, with its editors, Rabbi Lisa Grant, Director of the New York Rabbinical Program and Eleanor Sinsheimer Distinguished Service Professor in Jewish Education Coordinator, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, cantor of Kolot Chayeinu in Brooklyn, NY. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/4/2023: Rabbi Lisa Grant and Cantor Lisa B. Segal, “The Year of Mourning” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Michael Doring Connelly, a 40-plus-year healthcare veteran and former CEO of Mercy Health, discusses his book, The Journey’s End: An Investigation into Death and Dying in Modern America. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/21/2023: Michael Connelly, author of “The Journey’s End: An Investigation into Death and Dying in Modern America” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Sandra Cohen discusses the rabbinate, mental health, and spirituality. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/14/2023: Rabbi Sandra Cohen on the rabbinate, mental health, and spirituality appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Henry and Marcia Blumberg discuss Henry’s memoir of their son’s suicide, Sean Left Quietly: A Father’s Memoir. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/7/2023: Henry and Marcia Blumberg, discussing Henry’s book, “Sean Left Quietly,” a memoir of their son’s suicide appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Chelsea Duckers, a care coordinator and end-of-life doula at Rothkoff Law, a Cherry Hill-based elder law firm. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/30/2023: Chelsea Duckers, End of Life Doula and Care Coordinator, Rothkoff Law appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Andrue Kahn, associate rabbi at Congregation Emanu-El, New York, discusses the book, The Sacred Earth: Jewish Perspectives on Our Planet, which he edited. [Read more...]
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Rabbi Zoe Klein, senior rabbi of Temple Isaiah, Los Angeles, CA, discusses her book, Candle, Feather, Wooden Spoons, a collection of original Jewish short stories. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/16/2023: Rabbi Zoe Klein, author of “Candle, Feather, Wooden Spoon” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Berit Lewis discusses her book, "Ageing Upwards: A mindfulness-based framework for the longevity revolution," Lewis is owner of Thriving Life, a leading mindfulness provider based in the Netherlands. Her firm offers customized mindfulness based training programs with the intention to enhance individuals and organizations ability to thrive and perform. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/9/2023: Berit Lewis, author of “Ageing Upwards: A mindfulness-based framework for the longevity revolution” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week, Rabbi Address chats with Cantor Rhoda Harrison and Rabbi Barbara Symons about the new CCAR Press book, Prophetic Voices: Renewing and Reimagining Haftarah. Rabbi Symons is editor of the book and Cantor Harrison is a contributor to the collection of essays. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/2/2023: Rabbi Barbara Symons, Cantor Rhoda Harrison, new book on Haftarah, “Prophetic Voices” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, retired Cherry Hill, NJ, physician Ed Skobac discusses his project creating a documentary about his father’s experience surviving the Holocaust.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the GuestEd Skobac, MDEd Skobac is the second born son of Holocaust survivor William Skobac. He grew up in The Bronx, New York.
Ed received a BA in biology from Washington University in St. Louis, MO, in 1976 and an MD from Rutgers Medical School in 1980. He completed a residency in Internal Medicine in 1983 at the University of California Davis.
Ed was a practicing internist in southern NJ from 1983 to 2022 and was on the faculty as an assistant professor of Medicine at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine from 1997 to 2022.
Ed presently is a happily retired physician and proud father of two married sons, and grandfather to one granddaughter. He lives in Cherry Hill, NJ.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff discusses his new book, Judaism in a Digital Age: An Ancient Tradition Confronts a Transformative Era.
What is the next chapter in Judaism’s story, the next step in its journey?
The dramatic changes of recent decades invite us to explore what role Judaism is to play in this new era. As the digital future becomes the present, Danny Schiff makes the case that the period known as “modernity” has come to an end.
Noting the declining strength of Conservative and Reform Judaism, the largest US Jewish movements of modernity, he argues for new iterations of Judaism to arise in response to the myriad of weighty questions that now confront us about what it means to be human.
Here is an account of the digital age through a Jewish lens, in which Schiff examines Jewish teachings and traditions, exploring what moral insight they might have to offer in this period of great flux. He marshals the thought of well-known futurists such as Ray Kurzweil and Yuval Noah Harari to forecast the exponentially larger shifts in the human condition that lie ahead, and proposes that a countercultural Judaism could have renewed relevance in addressing some of the pressing issues that confront humanity in the twenty-first century.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Dr. Danny SchiffRabbi Dr. Danny Schiff is the Foundation Scholar at the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and the founder and president of MOJI, the Museum of Jewish Ideas. He is a noted teacher and researcher in Jewish ethics.
Born in Sydney, Australia, Rabbi Dr. Schiff grew up in Melbourne. He graduated with a B.A. from the University of Melbourne. Rabbi Dr. Schiff received ordination, as well as his Master of Arts in Hebrew Letters degree, from the Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (H.U.C. – J.I.R.). He also received his Doctor of Hebrew Letters degree, as well as an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree, from H.U.C. – J.I.R. Additionally, Rabbi Dr. Schiff earned an M.A. in Museum Studies from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.Rabbi Dr. Schiff previously served as the Community Scholar for the Agency for Jewish Learning in Pittsburgh, as rabbi of B’nai Israel in White Oak, Pennsylvania, and as rabbi at Temple Beth Israel in Melbourne, Australia. He is the author of Abortion in Judaism, published by Cambridge University Press. He has written a substantial number of articles, particularly in the field of Jewish law and ethics. Additionally, he is a former Board member of the City of Pittsburgh Ethics Board and of the Society of Jewish Ethics.
Rabbi Dr. Schiff is married to Anne Schiff. They have a son, David, and a daughter, Adina.
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/19/2023: Rabbi Danny Schiff, author of “Judaism in a Digital Age” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, information technology executive Scott Kushner describes his experience embracing prayer and ritual as part of a mental health recovery exercise.
Earlier this year, Kushner wrote for Jewish Sacred Aging on his experience with mental health issues and how his embrace of spirituality helped in his recovery.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestScott KushnerScott Kushner began reevaluating his core beliefs about 15 years ago, in the interest of acquiring greater joy and meaning in his life. During this time, he’s studied regularly with several different Kabbalah groups here in America and in Israel. His most significant study has been with Chassidic groups, and has included weekly study, as well as participating in about forty workshops.
Over the years, Scott has given many public and organizational talks to Jewish, Christian, heterogeneous and secular work-related groups. His talks tend to focus on the emotional value of traditional beliefs and how to integrate them into our daily lives.
Scott is an IT and Innovation Executive, typically working with mid-size software companies. Formally, his background is in engineering, IT, and finance. He credits his spirituality with greatly enhancing his creativity and leadership skills at work, where he gives regular talks on innovation, collaboration, relationship, and work purpose. Scott and his family live in Arden, DE.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbis Deborah Bodin Cohen and Kerry Olitzky discuss their forthcoming book, Heroes with Chutzpah, featuring biographical profiles of outstanding Jewish figures from history.
In Heroes with Chutzpah, readers will meet 101 Jewish changemakers from the recent past and present, who challenged the status quo in the arts, sciences, social justice, sports and politics. Each one-page biography is accompanied by an original digital portrait. This children’s book about Jewish heroes is inspiring and fun.
Heroes with Chutzpah captures the diversity of the global Jewish community, showcasing Jews of different racial backgrounds, gender and sexual identities, and religious orientations from secular to Orthodox. Instead of focusing exclusively on icons, we included an eclectic mix of both lesser-known and renowned personalities with engaging, inspiring, and meaningful stories that will resonate with children of all backgrounds.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestsRabbi Kerry M. OlitzkyDeborah Bodin Cohen (Debbie) grew up in Columbia, MD, and graduated from the University of Michigan’s Honors English Program. After working in Washington, DC, at various public interest groups, Debbie studied at Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem and New York. She was ordained as a rabbi in 1997. She has served congregations in North Carolina, New Jersey and Maryland, both as a pulpit rabbi and educator. Since 2017, she has been rabbi of Beth Chai in Bethesda, MD. She is also an editor at Behrman House Publishing.
Debbie is author of nine picture books and a teen novel. Her books have received multiple honors, including a National Jewish Book Award and Sydney Taylor Honor designations. The Grinspoon Foundation’s PJ Library has featured several of Debbie’s books and has translated them into Russian and Spanish for the international market.
In her free time, Debbie enjoys creating artwork, traveling, spending time with her family and, of course, reading. Debbie lives in Rockville, MD, with her husband David, a journalist. They have three children, Arianna, Jesse and Ezra. A Collie named Indigo completes the family.
Rabbi Dr. Kerry M. OlitzkyRabbi Dr. Kerry M. Olitzky is the former long time executive director of Big Tent Judaism (previously the Jewish Outreach Institute), a national independent organization dedicated to bringing Judaism to interfaith families and the unaffiliated. He served as visiting professor at the Abraham Geiger Kolleg/University of Pottsdam in Germany and
has been a Fellow at the City University Graduate Center (NY) in its Jewish Studies Program. He has been named as one of the 50 Leading Rabbis in North America by Newsweek. Formerly, he served as vice president of the Wexner Heritage Foundation, the premier adult Jewish learning and Jewish leadership program in North America. Previously, he was national Dean of Adult Jewish Learning and Living of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion where he served on the faculty and administration for 15 years following his tenure as rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel in West Hartford, CT. A leader in the development of innovative Jewish education, particularly for adults, he has shaped training programs for clergy of all faiths, especially in the area of pastoral care and counseling in the Jewish community. He has done pioneering work in the area of Jewish Twelve Step spirituality, as well as Jewish Gerontology.
He is the author of over 75 books and hundreds of articles in a variety of fields. He is known for books that bring the insights of Jewish wisdom into everyday living. His opinion pieces are published in leading publications throughout North America and in Israel. Most of his recent publications are children’s picture books, as well as the early reader The Adventures of Leila and Ilana (White Bird Publications).
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Jewish Sacred Aging contributing writer Carole Leskin discusses the challenges of “solo aging,” growing old without a spouse, partner, or close family members.
Carole was recently interviewed for a Washington Post article about the phenomenon of aging adults who don’t have immediate family such as siblings, spouses, partners, or even a support network of friends because of mobility issues, the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the difficulty of connecting in general.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestCarole LeskinCarole Leskin is a retired Director of Global Human Resources. Embarking on a second career as a writer and photographer concentrating on her personal accounts of aging, her essays and poetry, frequently accompanied by her photos, are published in Jewish Sacred Aging, Jewish Women of Words, Starts At 60, Navigating Aging ( a Kaiser Health publication), Women’s Older Wisdom, Time Goes By and Next Avenue. Her poems, “Father Time” and “Carole’s Debate” were selected for inclusion in the 2019 anthologies of poetry, New Jersey Bards. Her photos have been featured in Mart R Porter Nature Forum.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Charles Kroloff, rabbi emeritus of Temple Emanu-El, Westfield, New Jersey, discusses his new book, Open Up Our Eyes: Moments That Shape Our Lives, about amazing moments in his personal and professional life.
The author, a renowned rabbi, counselor, and force for social justice, has had some amazing experiences dancing at the White House, ministering to congregants, on buses and trains in the Jim Crow South, in the swimming pool at Yale University, officiating at weddings and funerals, cheering for the NY Mets, and supporting the homeless. He has also experienced in unique ways the blessings of being a husband, father, grandfather, and son.
As he recalls amazing moments in his personal and professional life, he invites the reader to do the same. His spiritual insights will inspire you to think deeply about the joys and sorrows in your own life. He shows you how, by reflecting on the special and not-so-special moments of your past, you can find purpose in your life and make your days happier and more fulfilling.
The author has been deeply influenced by the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, and Martin Buber. From them he has learned that every day is precious and that there are amazing blessings all around us if we will only open our eyes to them.
Rabbi Kroloff grapples with the despair that many feel over the current state of affairs in our world. He offers suggestions for how each us, no matter where we are in life or on the political spectrum, can make a difference. Although Judaism is his spiritual anchor, the author draws deeply on other traditions, secular and religious. Ultimately, he affirms his faith in the future of our nation and humankind. But he is not a naive, ivory tower optimist. He reminds us that our future depends on good people not remaining silent, but becoming a force for good in whatever small and large ways we can.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Charles KroloffRabbi Charles Kroloff was spiritual leader of Temple Emanu-El, Westfield, New Jersey, one of the region’s largest synagogues, for 36 years. He is past president of the Central Conference of American Rabbis which represents thousands of Reform rabbis worldwide. A magna cum laude graduate of Yale University, he was ordained at Hebrew Union College where he taught rabbinic students for three decades and where he continues to mentor future rabbis. An experienced marital and family therapist, he is the author of When Elijah Knocks: A Religious Response to Homelessness; 54 Ways You Can Help the Homeless; and, most recently, Open Up Our Eyes: Moments That Shape Our Lives.
Rabbi Kroloff is a passionate, fan of the NY Mets, fine art museums, and lap swimming. He and his wife, Dr. Terry Kroloff, the parents of three children, love to celebrate life with their seven grandchildren.
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/21/2023: Rabbi Charles Kroloff and his new book, “Open Up Our Eyes: Moments That Shape Our Lives” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, liturgist, poet and author Alden Solovy joins Rabbi Address from his office in Jerusalem to discuss his latest book, These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah.
In These Words, liturgist Alden Solovy distills the Torah into its very essence: the individual words it contains. Echoing the midrash that the Torah has seventy faces, Solovy selects seventy of its Hebrew words that are pregnant with meaning. For each word, he delves into the etymology, translation, and usage, providing deeper insights into familiar texts. Then Solovy presents a beautiful poem–what he calls “poetic midrash”–inspired by and interpreting each word. From b’reishit (“in beginning”) to shamayim (“heavens”) to zachor (“remember”), These Words will change the way you look at the language of the Torah.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the Guest(Michele Chabin Photo)Alden SolovyAlden Solovy is a modern day piytan, a traveling poet/preacher/teacher who uses Torah and verse to engage and inspire.
Alden embodies the intersection of scholarship and heart. A new voice for ancient yearnings, his writings resonate with the soul and his presence is sought after in Jewish spiritual spaces around the world.
A liturgist, lyricist, and educator, Alden offers a fresh Jewish voice, challenging the boundaries between poetry, meditation, personal growth, and prayer. His writing was transformed by multiple tragedies, marked in 2009 by the sudden death of his wife from catastrophic brain injury.
Solovy’s teaching spans from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Jerusalem to Limmud and Leo Baeck College in the UK, and synagogues throughout North America.
He is the author of four volumes from CCAR Press: These Words: Poetic Midrash on the Language of Torah (2023), This Grateful Heart: Psalms and Prayers for a New Day (2017), This Joyous Soul: A New Voice for Ancient Yearnings (2019), and This Precious Life: Encountering the Divine with Poetry and Prayer (2021).
The Jerusalem Post called his writing “soulful, meticulously crafted.” Huffington Post Religion said “…the prayers reflect age-old yearnings in modern-day situations.”
Solovy made Aliyah to Israel in 2012, where he hikes, writes, teaches, and learns. His work has appeared more than 25 collections, including Prophetic Voices: Renewing and Reimagining Haftorah (CCAR Press, 2023), Mishkan R’Fuah: Where Healing Resides (CCAR Press, 2012), L’chol Z’man v’Eit: For Sacred Moments (CCAR Press, 2015), Mishkan HaNefesh: Machzor for the Days of Awe (CCAR Press, 2015), and Gates of Shabbat, Revised Edition (CCAR Press, 2016).
He is a three-time winner of the Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism. His writing appears on Ritualwell.org, ReformJudaism.org, Ravblog.ccar.org, TimesofIsrael.com and tobendlight.com. Alden is also the founder of ManKind Project Israel.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch, senior rabbi of the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York, discusses the upcoming Re-CHARGING Reform Judaism conference being held at the synagogue May 31-June 1.
The Re-CHARGING Reform Judaism Conference will convene thought leaders, Jewish scholars, philanthropists, and committed lay leaders from throughout the U.S. and Canada for an extraordinary opportunity to assess this crossroads moment and offer a call for a bright future.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the GuestShahar Azan PhotoRabbi Ammiel HirschRabbi Ammiel Hirsch is the senior rabbi of Stephen Wise Free Synagogue in New York City. With a fiery voice, a listening heart and a brilliant mind, Rabbi Hirsch articulates a clear vision for the survival and success of American Judaism while tending compassionately to the needs of his growing congregation.
Internationally recognized for his leadership in Jewish affairs, Rabbi Hirsch is frequently cited in the media. In 2018, The Jerusalem Post named him among “The 50 Most Influential Jews of the Year.” City & State praised him as “the borough’s most influential voice” for Manhattan’s more than 300,000 Jews and The New York Observer named him among “New York’s Most Influential Religious Leaders.”
The son of Rabbi Richard G. Hirsch z’’l and Bella Hirsch z’’l, Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch grew up in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area before moving to Israel for his high school years. From 1977 to 1980, he served as a tank commander in the Israel Defense Forces.
Rabbi Hirsch earned his LL.B Honors law degree from the London School of Economics and is a member of the New York State Bar. He received his ordination at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York City, where he was granted numerous awards for academic excellence.
Prior to his arrival at Stephen Wise, he served for 12 years as executive director of the Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA), the Israel arm of the North American Reform movement.
Rabbi Hirsch has served on numerous boards of national and international bodies, including the Jewish Agency for Israel, the World Zionist Organization, the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis. He is currently an officer of the New York Board of Rabbis, and a member of the Partnership of Faith, an interfaith body of New York religious leaders, and New York State Attorney General Letitia James’ Black-Jewish Clergy Roundtable.
An accomplished teacher and public speaker, Rabbi Hirsch is also the co-author of the acclaimed One People Two Worlds: A Reform Rabbi and an Orthodox Rabbi Explore the Issues that Divide Them.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Robin Plumer discusses Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) in New Jersey. In 2020, Dr. Plumer started Compassionate Endings NJ, a practice devoted to MAID with a former nurse colleague who shares her passion for intensely personalized and comprehensive patient care.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the GuestRobin Plumer DODr Robin Plumer practiced emergency medicine in New Jersey for over 30 years. In 2008 she moved to New Zealand, where she continued to work in emergency medicine, but she also pursued her interest in end of life care by working in several hospices and completing a postgraduate diploma in Hospice and Palliative Medicine at the University of Auckland.
In 2017 she returned to the US to help care for her father, who had Parkinson’s disease. She served in both inpatient and community hospice settings in New Jersey for 3 years.
Following the passage of NJ’s medical aid in dying (MAID) law in 2019, she pursued intensive study of the field by collaborating with experienced MAID clinicians in California, Washington state, and Oregon.
In July of 2020 she started a practice devoted to MAID with a former nurse colleague who shares her passion for intensely personalized and comprehensive patient care. Since starting their practice, they have attended many MAID deaths, and have become proficient in managing special situations for those patients who cannot swallow and require an alternative route for self administration of MAID medications.
Compassionate Endings NJ continues to encourage those in the medical community who wish to become involved in MAID by mentoring and teaching.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Mary Naylor, PhD, RN, FAAN, the Marian S. Ware Professor in Gerontology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and director of the NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health discusses the nursing school’s Caregiving Now initiative in partnership with NewCourtland.
The Caregiving NOW Initiative builds on the work of the NewCourtland Center members in partnership with leaders and staff at NewCourtland to create a roadmap that will offer short- and longer-term solutions to enhance the well-being of all caregivers in the U.S.
NewCourtland provides Philadelphia’s seniors with an array of medical, social and support services that help them live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
For more than 150 years, NewCourtland has been there to meet seniors’ individual and changing needs with well-trained and motivated staff who understand, respect and value the rich life experience of the people in our care.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the GuestMary D. Naylor, PhD, RN, FAANMarian S. Ware Professor in Gerontology, University of Pennsylvania School of NursingDirector of the NewCourtland Center for Transitions and HealthMary Naylor is a pioneer in the design, evaluation, and spread of health care innovations that have significantly improved the outcomes of chronically ill older adults and their family caregivers, while reducing health care costs. In collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of clinical scholars and health services researchers, her work has resulted in the Transitional Care Model, a cost-effective advanced practice nurse-led model to improve the transitions of older adults who are navigating complex and often fragmented systems of care.
Initially, her team’s efforts were focused on the transitions of older adults from hospitals to home. More recently, they have extended their work to prevent avoidable hospitalizations among older adults living in their communities. This evidence-based solution has not only demonstrated better care but also has improved older adults’ functional status and quality of life. Dr. Naylor has demonstrated how knowledge generated from her research can be used to address the broader challenges associated with chronic illness, the endemic problem of this century.
Dr. Naylor has worked tirelessly to advocate for evidence-based changes in health care practices and policies across the globe. As a member of the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, for example, Dr. Naylor advised the U.S. Congress on policies designed to offer a more promising future for Medicare beneficiaries. As a result, the use of evidence-based transitional care is now included in multiple policies designed to foster health care delivery and payment reforms, including several provisions of the 2010 Affordable Care Act.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Eileen Levinson discusses her websites Haggadot.com, where visitors can create customized siddurim for Passover observances, and ReCustom.com, where users can create other personalized life-cycle observance rituals.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestEileen LevinsonEileen Levinson is the Founder & Creative Director of Custom & Craft, a Los Angeles-based design studio & media lab that imagines new formats for engaging in ancient community traditions. In 2011, Eileen founded the website, Haggadot.com, which has helped over half a million Jews around the world exchange & personalize their Passover Haggadah. The website has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Ha’aretz, The Huffington Post, The Jerusalem Post, and on NPR’s All Things Considered.
In addition to her projects within the Jewish community, Eileen served as Creative Director and helped launch Kin Community, a women’s-focused multi-platform network, from the brand’s launch in 2011 until summer 2015.
Eileen has an MFA from the program in Graphic Design at CalArts, and a BA (magna cum laude) from Washington University in St. Louis.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Stephen G. Post, Ph.D., discusses his books, Dignity for Deeply Forgetful People: How Caregivers Can Meet the Challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease and God and Love on Route 80: The Hidden Mystery of Human Connectedness.
How do we approach a “deeply forgetful” loved one so as to notice and affirm their continuing self-identity? For three decades, Stephen G. Post has worked around the world encouraging caregivers to become more aware of—and find renewed hope in—surprising expressions of selfhood despite the challenges of cognitive decline.
In this book, Post offers new perspectives on the worth and dignity of people with Alzheimer’s and related disorders despite the negative influence of “hypercognitive” values that place an ethically unacceptable emphasis on human dignity as based on linear rationality and strength of memory. This bias, Post argues, is responsible for the abusive exclusion of this population from our shared humanity. With vignettes and narratives, he argues for a deeper dignity grounded in consciousness, emotional presence, creativity, interdependence, music, and a self that is not “gone” but “differently abled.”
Stephen G. Post was the perfect child and A-student until he took off in the family car, compelled by a persistent vision, his “blue angel dream.” Crossing America on Route 80, his unlikely adventure culminates in a shocking encounter that sets the stage for the rest of his life, a path connected by synchronicities which Post perceived as guidance from God and proof of humanity’s fundamental oneness, Infinite Mind. Truly a story for the ages, God and Love on Route 80 touches on the essential meaning of life and the messages we may all miss unless we begin paying close attention.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
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- Stitcher About the GuestStephen G. Post, Ph.D.Stephen G. Post, Ph.D., is internationally recognized for his work with deeply forgetful people, their families and allied organizations. His book The Moral Challenge of Alzheimer’s Disease: Ethical Issues from Diagnosis to Dying (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2000) was designated a “medical classic of the century” by the British Medical Journal. His research on the dynamics of compassionate care in the lives of persons with dementia and their caregivers resulted in his being elected a member of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Board of Alzheimer’s Disease International. He is also one of only several recipients of the Alzheimer’s Association national distinguished service award “in recognition of personal and professional outreach to the Alzheimer’s Association Chapters on ethics issues important to people with Alzheimer’s and their families.”
Post began his work with “deeply forgetful people” while in Cleveland where he served as a professor at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine (1988–2008). He has published widely on dignity, ethics, and spirituality of caregiving, and he has been quoted in more than 3000 international newspapers and magazines, including The New York Times, Parade Magazine, O, The Oprah Magazine, and many TV programs including The Daily Show. Post is the author of 300 articles in premier journals such as Science, the New England Journal of Medicine, Psychosomatic Medicine, Hospital Pediatrics, Journal of the American Academy of Religion, and the Journal of the American Medical Association. The author of several books including the bestselling Why Good Things Happen to Good People (Random House), Post’s most recent book, published by the Johns Hopkins University Press (2022) is Dignity for Deeply Forgetful People: How Caregivers Can Meet the Challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease. He offers insights and perspectives that encourage us all to recognize the continuing self-identity and dignity of affected individuals and their caregivers.
A graduate of the University of Chicago with training in psychology, world religions, and ethics, Post is renowned for his work on compassionate care at the interface of science, ethics, spiritual thought, and behavioral medicine. He is the President of the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love, which he co-founded with philanthropist Sir John Templeton, who personally selected Post as President in 2001. He is also founding director of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics at Stony Brook University School of Medicine in New York (2008–present), where he also serves as Professor of Family, Population, and Preventative Medicine and Head of the Division of Medicine in Society.
Post served as a co-chair of the United Nations Population Fund conference on spirituality and global transformation. He is an elected member of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia for “distinguished contributions to medicine,” the New York Academy of Medicine, and the Royal Society of Medicine, London.
An opinion leader and public speaker, Post served on the Board of the John Templeton Foundation (2008–2014), which focuses on virtue and public life. A leader in research on the benefits of giving and on compassionate care in relation to improved patient outcomes and clinician well-being, Post addressed the U.S. Congress on volunteerism and health, receiving the Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition for Outstanding Achievement. Post was co-recipient (2012) with Edmund D. Pellegrino MD of the Pioneer Medal for Outstanding Leadership in HealthCare from the HealthCare Chaplaincy Network, and the Kama Book Award in Medical Humanities from World Literacy Canada (2008). Co-Recipient of the 2019 National Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society Professionalism Award for development of the Professional Identity Formation curriculum at the School of Medicine, at Stony Brook (2008–present), where his Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care, and Bioethics, “a place where the human side of medicine is elevated, examined and revered,” was selected (2011) for special institutional excellence by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (AMA & AAMC accrediting body), the only humanities and ethics entity in American medical school history to receive this distinction.
A recipient of the National Endowment for the Humanities “top public speaker” award, Post uses a highly engaging style with a mix of stories, clinical, and philosophical perspectives to inspire audiences. Dr. Post continues to travel the globe speaking about those with memory issues and sharing about the transformative benefits of kindness, volunteering, spirituality, forgiveness and purpose.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Jason Weiner, senior rabbi and director of the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai Health System in Los Angeles, discusses his new book, Care and Covenant: A Jewish Bioethic of Responsibility.
Editor’s Note: On February 3, 2023, after this interview was recorded, Rabbi Weiner announced on Twitter that he was donating a kidney* to an unidentified patient. As of February 15, Rabbi Weiner tweeted that his recuperation from the donation surgery was going well.***
The Jewish tradition has important perspectives, history, and wisdom that can contribute significantly to crucial contemporary healthcare deliberations. Care and Covenant: A Jewish Bioethic of Responsibility demonstrates how numerous classic Jewish texts can add new ideas to the world of medicine today. Rabbi Jason Weiner draws on fifteen years of experience working in a hospital as a practitioner to develop an “ethic of responsibility.”
This book seeks to develop an approach to bioethical dilemmas that is primarily informed by personal and communal obligations as well as social responsibilities. Weiner applies unique and inspiring values found in Judaism to encourage healthcare providers to remain dedicated to preventing harm and providing care to all. Each chapter investigates relevant philosophical questions such as what the expectations of a society or government are and what we should do when our obligations to others violate our own moral principles, safety, or ability to assist.
Care and Covenant provides analytical, philosophical, and evidence-based scholarship to guide discussions on ethics in healthcare.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
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- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Jason WeinerRabbi Dr. Jason Weiner, BCC, serves as the senior rabbi and director of the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, where he is responsible for the chaplaincy team and all aspects of spiritual care.
Rabbi Weiner previously served as the assistant rabbi at Young Israel of Century City. He has earned two rabbinic ordinations, as well as a doctorate in clinical bioethics from Loyola University (Chicago), where he also earned a master’s degree in bioethics and health policy, in addition to a master’s degree in Jewish history from Yeshiva University. Rabbi Weiner has completed four units of clinical pastoral education. He is a board-certified chaplain through Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains, and he sits on the association’s board.
Rabbi Weiner is a member of the executive committee of the Cedars-Sinai Bioethics Committee. He is past president of the Southern California Board of Rabbis and has been honored with Rabbinic Leadership Awards from the Orthodox Union and Chai Lifeline. Rabbi Weiner is also the rabbi of Knesset Israel Synagogue of Beverlywood, and he frequently serves as a scholar-in-residence at conferences and synagogues throughout the nation on topics related to Jewish medical ethics, pastoral care, health and wellness, and teaches hands-on Jewish medical ethics in the hospital to numerous Jewish high schools in Los Angeles.
He is the author of Jewish Guide to Practical Medical Decision-Making (Urim Press) and Guide to Observance of Jewish Law in a Hospital (Kodesh Press). He has published more than two dozen scholarly articles and book chapters, as well as several “popular” pieces.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Michael Liben, host of the Bereaved But Still Me podcast.
“Bereaved But Still Me” is a podcast for the bereaved community that was formerly known as “Heart to Heart with Michael.”
“Heart to Heart with Michael” was nominated for a 2020 WEGO Health Award and became a finalist in the Health Podcast category. “Bereaved But Still Me” is a product of the Hearts Unite the Globe Network of Podcasts.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Stitcher About the GuestMichael LibenMichael Liben is the host of the “Bereaved But Still Me” podcast and is a documentary filmmaker living in Israel.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, documentary filmmaker Sky Bergman discusses her film, “Lives Well Lived.”
The Lives Well Lived film captures the images, ideas, and ideals of those who are proving that aging is something to cherish, that retirement doesn’t mean you retire from life, and that growing older doesn’t mean growing silent. These are the people teaching a growing population of men and women how to age with dignity, grace, energy, and purpose.
Beginning with its premiere at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Lives Well Lived has screened in more than 200 cities. The film has won eight awards, and the theatrical run garnered enthusiastic reviews and a 100% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Organizations like Aging 2.0, AARP’s Movies for Grownups, Encore.org, and Leading Age have screened Lives Well Lived. Now the film is available on PBS!
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Stitcher About the GuestSky BergmanSky Bergman is an accomplished, award-winning photographer. Lives Well Lived is Sky’s directorial debut.
Her fine art work is included in permanent collections at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Brooklyn Museum, Seattle Art Museum, Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. Her commercial work has appeared on book covers for Random House and Farrar, Straus & Giroux, Inc., and magazine spreads in Smithsonian, Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel, Reader’s Digest, and Archaeology Odyssey.
Sky Bergman is a Professor Emeritus of Photography and Video at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, CA. She has two short films about intergenerational connections currently on the film festival circuit and is working on a feature-length film that is a celebration of love.
Sky was recently named a CoGenerate Innovation Fellow, joining an impressive group of 14 other social entrepreneurs with cogenerational solutions to today’s biggest problems. These 15 inspiring social entrepreneurs bring older & younger people together to address racial inequality, climate change, social isolation and more.
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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Hesh Zinman, Commissioner, Pennsylvania Governor’s Commission on LGBTQ+ Affairs, co-chair of the Aging Workgroup and founder and former chair of the LGBT Elder Initiative, discusses issues of interest to the aging LGBTQ+ community.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
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- Stitcher About the GuestHeshie Zinman, chairman, Philadelphia LGBT Elder InitiativeGuest NameHesh Zinman has a long history of activism on both the local and national level. He has a passionate commitment for the health and well-being of LGBT and HIV communities and helped shape the city’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic from the period of 1987-1998. He was a driving force behind the start-up of Action AIDS, AIDS Fund, SafeGuards Gay Men’s Health Project and Delaware Valley Legacy Fund. He founded the AIDS Library of Philadelphia (which today resides at Philadelphia FIGHT) and went on to become the Executive Director of the AIDS Information Network. Heshie has worked as HIV Community Relations Manager for Dupont Pharmaceuticals Company and Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals. He currently serves as board chair of the LGBT Elder Initiative. Heshie has served on many other boards of directors, most recently joining the board of Philadelphia Corporation For Aging and the Mayor’s Commission on Aging. Born in Philadelphia, Heshie holds a BA degree from Penn State University and an MBA from St. Josephs University.
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Rabbi Address was a guest speaker during a recent webinar series, “Caregiving Now!” for the New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health at the University of Pennsylvania. Several additional webinars are scheduled in the series. More information is available on the New Courtland Center website.
Rabbi Richard Address and Reverend Tyrone Pitts discuss the spiritual dimension of caregiving, faith-based community programs they have led to support caregivers, and how culture and religion affected the design and implementation of such programs.The human and economic consequences of caregiving negatively affect virtually every sector of society. One in five Americans provide support to spouses, aging parents, and children with serious health problems or disabilities. Caregiving NOW is designed to address the immediate and growing need for action to improve caregiving in the U.S. An essential component to the plan is the meaningful engagement and partnership with caregivers, scholars, community leaders, employers, policy makers and others.
The post Rabbi Address Appears in ‘Caregiving NOW!’ Webinar for UPenn’s New Courtland Center for Transitions and Health appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author Merle Feld discusses her new book, Longing: Poems of a Life.
What do we long for as we carry the traumas of our past and look into the future with guarded hope? In Longing: Poems of a Life, acclaimed poet Merle Feld tells her intensely personal story while naming profound human experience. Feld opens forbidden doors and long-shuttered windows, peering through the lattices of memory at moments of anguish, breaking, blessing, surviving. We accompany her through early family violence, isolation, the discovery of community and love; we witness her climb from the loss of possibility to the assertion of self-worth and purpose. Threading through the years are conversations with a mother long gone–“a slip of a girl” whose misplaced loyalty and endless capacity for loving are both cautionary tale and guidepost. Deeply Jewish yet universal, these gripping poems will stay with you.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestMerle FeldMerle Feld is a widely published poet, award-winning playwright, peace activist, and educator who has pioneered teaching writing as a spiritual practice. Her latest book is Longing, Poems of a Life (CCAR Press 2023). Her prose and poetry, including her signature poem about women and men standing at Sinai, can be found in numerous anthologies and prayer books. She is also the author of a highly acclaimed memoir, A Spiritual Life: Exploring the Heart and Jewish Tradition (SUNY Press, revised edition 2007) and Finding Words, a book of poems (Behrman House Press 2011).
Her theatre credits include Returning, Across the Jordan, and The Gates are Closing. A popular teacher internationally, Feld has facilitated Israeli-Palestinian dialogue on the West Bank and at Seeds of Peace and has worked with grassroots women community organizers in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. She serves as Founding Director of the Rabbinic Writing Institute, established in 2005, guiding rabbis across five denominations to develop and explore their own inner lives and to more effectively serve as spiritual leaders.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/20/2023: Merle Feld Discusses Her New Book, Longing: Poems of a Life appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Goldman of the Community Kollel of Las Vegas, Nevada, discusses his new book, Love Peace and Pursue It: Developing Respect, Compassion, and Connection in Our Relationships from a Torah Perspective.
Why is it so hard to speak pleasantly and create positive relationships? What can we do to improve ourselves in these areas?
Rabbi Aryeh Goldman tackles these questions and more, sharing Torah-based insights in clear and relatable language. Throughout this carefully structured book, he is realistic and honest, as well as optimistic and encouraging, about the challenges that face us as we try to navigate the sticky but crucial realm of interpersonal relationships. He digs to the roots of these challenges and shows how we can strengthen our own inner characters and thereby build stronger relationships. As he writes, “To improve in a meaningful way, it is necessary to understand our whole inner being.”
Rabbi Goldman shares many insights into human nature and behavior to help us in this task. He supports these insights by explaining the Torah values that guide us and by describing the models in our tradition that shed light on human relationships (such as the conflict between Yaakov Avinu and Esav as well as the way Aharon Hakohen famously helped people resolve their differences). The encouragement and concepts presented in this book will help readers understand their own inner being and motivate them toward real growth.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Aryeh GoldmanRabbi Goldman joined the Community Kollel of Greater Las Vegas in 2016 after serving with distinction on the faculty of the Rabbinical Seminary of America for ten years. In that position, Rabbi Goldman was responsible for educating and mentoring rabbinical students as they prepared for their careers in rabbinic leadership, education, and outreach. His leadership raises the bar of Torah scholarship in Kollel and throughout the community: he is a rabbi’s rabbi. Rabbi Goldman, his wife Michal, and their family are an invaluable asset to the Las Vegas community.
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/6/2023: Rabbi Aryeh Goldman, author of “Love Peace and Pursue It” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Rabbi Seymour Rossel, the author of The Wise Folk of Chelm and more than thirty other books, including The Torah: Portion-by-Portion, Bible Dreams: The Spiritual Quest, The Essential Jewish Stories, and Managing the Jewish Classroom. In addition, he has edited some 300 books, having worked with many distinguished Jewish authors of our times.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Seymour RosselRabbi Seymour Rossel is the author of The Wise Folk of Chelm and more than thirty other books, including The Torah: Portion-by-Portion, Bible Dreams: The Spiritual Quest, The Essential Jewish Stories, and Managing the Jewish Classroom. In addition, he has edited some 300 books, having worked with many distinguished Jewish authors of our times.
Seymour is currently the President of Rossel Books and RCC, Inc. He continues to provide guest lectures at the Women’s Institute of Houston. While living in Houston, he was Rabbi of Congregation Jewish Community North (Spring, TX). During his career in New York, he served the American Reform movement (URJ) in a number of national positions:
• Director of URJ Press
• Director of the Department of Education
• Director of the Commission on Reform Jewish Education and
• Dean of the School of Education of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, NY.
He also sat on national boards for the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE), the Jewish Book Council, and the National Association of Temple Educators (now ARJE). He was Founding Director of Pathways Foundation (an advocacy program for Jewish teens and Jewish dreams); Headmaster of Solomon Schechter (now Levine) Academy of Dallas, TX; Executive Vice-President of Behrman House; and Director of Education for Temple Shalom of Dallas, TX, and Temple Beth El of Chappaqua, NY. Seymour also served in a voluntary capacity as Chair for two international Jewish education conferences both convened at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
As storyteller, speaker, author, and editor, Seymour is listed in Who’s Who in the Eastern States, Contemporary Authors, The International Authors and Writers Who’s Who, as well as Who’s Who in World Jewry. He holds the Bonei HaNegev award from Israel Bonds for excellence in Jewish Education and served as an ex-officio member of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.
Seymour lectures widely on Jewish stories & legends, Bible, archaeology, mysticism, Kabbalah, spirituality, Jewish history, education, dreams, and values; and he conducts scholar-in-residence weekends; teacher, board, and congregational workshops; and retreats in communities throughout North America.
The post ENCORE 12/30/2022: Seekers of Meaning 12/16/2022: Rabbi Seymour Rossel, president of Rossel Books, Jewish author appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, former Israeli ambassador to the US Michael Oren discusses his new novel, Swann’s War, set in New England during World War II.
The Second World War is raging overseas, but life remains painfully quiet on the rugged New England fishing island of Fourth Cliff—an afterthought of an island now home to only
aged fishermen, drunks, and an Italian POW camp guarded by damaged and subpar
American soldiers.
With her husband Archie, the island’s beloved police captain, off fighting in the Marines, Mary Beth Swann steps into his role, without the respect of Fourth Cliff’s hardscrabble residents. When a murdered POW surfaces in a fisherman’s net, and soon more bodies appear, Mary Beth’s hold on order and rule wears thin. She must rely on
the help of a simple-minded deputy, a disgraced doctor, and a mob-connected mainlander to find the person responsible…all while Swann’s loneliness, uncertainty, and self-doubt threaten to derail her investigation.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestHon. Michael B. OrenMichael B. Oren served as Israel’s ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2013.
As Ambassador, he was instrumental in securing U.S. support for Israel’s defense and upholding Israel’s right to security and peace. The Forward named Ambassador Oren one of the five most influential Jews in America and the Jerusalem Post listed him as one of the ten most influential Jews worldwide.
Born in the United States and educated at Princeton and Columbia, Dr. Oren has been a visiting professor at Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown, and was a Distinguished Fellow at the Shalem Center in Jerusalem. He has received fellowships from the British and Canadian governments as well as a Moshe Dayan Fellowship from Tel Aviv University and the Lady Davis Fellowship at the Hebrew University. His last two books, Power, Faith, and Fantasy: America in the Middle East from 1776 to the Present and Six Days of War, were both New York Times bestsellers. He has won the Los Angeles Times History Book of the Year Award and the National Jewish Book Award.
In Israel, Ambassador Oren served as an officer in the Israel Defense Forces, in the paratroopers in the Lebanon War, a liaison with the U.S. Sixth Fleet during the Gulf War, and an IDF spokesman during the Second Lebanon War and the Gaza operation in January 2009. He acted as an emissary to Jewish refuseniks in the Soviet Union, as an advisor to Israel’s delegation to the United Nations, and as the government’s director of Inter-Religious Affairs. He was a gold medal-winning athlete in the Maccabiah Games.
Ambassador Oren and his wife, Sally, have three children.
The post ENCORE 12/23/2021: Seekers of Meaning 12/09/2022: Former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren’s new book, Swann’s War appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Rabbi Seymour Rossel, the author of The Wise Folk of Chelm and more than thirty other books, including The Torah: Portion-by-Portion, Bible Dreams: The Spiritual Quest, The Essential Jewish Stories, and Managing the Jewish Classroom. In addition, he has edited some 300 books, having worked with many distinguished Jewish authors of our times.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestRabbi Seymour RosselRabbi Seymour Rossel is the author of The Wise Folk of Chelm and more than thirty other books, including The Torah: Portion-by-Portion, Bible Dreams: The Spiritual Quest, The Essential Jewish Stories, and Managing the Jewish Classroom. In addition, he has edited some 300 books, having worked with many distinguished Jewish authors of our times.
Seymour is currently the President of Rossel Books and RCC, Inc. He continues to provide guest lectures at the Women’s Institute of Houston. While living in Houston, he was Rabbi of Congregation Jewish Community North (Spring, TX). During his career in New York, he served the American Reform movement (URJ) in a number of national positions:
• Director of URJ Press
• Director of the Department of Education
• Director of the Commission on Reform Jewish Education and
• Dean of the School of Education of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, NY.
He also sat on national boards for the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE), the Jewish Book Council, and the National Association of Temple Educators (now ARJE). He was Founding Director of Pathways Foundation (an advocacy program for Jewish teens and Jewish dreams); Headmaster of Solomon Schechter (now Levine) Academy of Dallas, TX; Executive Vice-President of Behrman House; and Director of Education for Temple Shalom of Dallas, TX, and Temple Beth El of Chappaqua, NY. Seymour also served in a voluntary capacity as Chair for two international Jewish education conferences both convened at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
As storyteller, speaker, author, and editor, Seymour is listed in Who’s Who in the Eastern States, Contemporary Authors, The International Authors and Writers Who’s Who, as well as Who’s Who in World Jewry. He holds the Bonei HaNegev award from Israel Bonds for excellence in Jewish Education and served as an ex-officio member of the Central Conference of American Rabbis.
Seymour lectures widely on Jewish stories & legends, Bible, archaeology, mysticism, Kabbalah, spirituality, Jewish history, education, dreams, and values; and he conducts scholar-in-residence weekends; teacher, board, and congregational workshops; and retreats in communities throughout North America.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/16/2022: Rabbi Seymour Rossel, president of Rossel Books, Jewish author appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, former Israeli ambassador to the US Michael Oren discusses his new novel, Swann’s War, set in New England during World War II.
The Second World War is raging overseas, but life remains painfully quiet on the rugged New England fishing island of Fourth Cliff—an afterthought of an island now home to only
aged fishermen, drunks, and an Italian POW camp guarded by damaged and subpar
American soldiers.
With her husband Archie, the island’s beloved police captain, off fighting in the Marines, Mary Beth Swann steps into his role, without the respect of Fourth Cliff’s hardscrabble residents. When a murdered POW surfaces in a fisherman’s net, and soon more bodies appear, Mary Beth’s hold on order and rule wears thin. She must rely on
the help of a simple-minded deputy, a disgraced doctor, and a mob-connected mainlander to find the person responsible…all while Swann’s loneliness, uncertainty, and self-doubt threaten to derail her investigation.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestHon. Michael B. OrenMichael B. Oren served as Israel’s ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2013.
As Ambassador, he was instrumental in securing U.S. support for Israel’s defense and upholding Israel’s right to security and peace. The Forward named Ambassador Oren one of the five most influential Jews in America and the Jerusalem Post listed him as one of the ten most influential Jews worldwide.
Born in the United States and educated at Princeton and Columbia, Dr. Oren has been a visiting professor at Harvard, Yale, and Georgetown, and was a Distinguished Fellow at the Shalem Center in Jerusalem. He has received fellowships from the British and Canadian governments as well as a Moshe Dayan Fellowship from Tel Aviv University and the Lady Davis Fellowship at the Hebrew University. His last two books, Power, Faith, and Fantasy: America in the Middle East from 1776 to the Present and Six Days of War, were both New York Times bestsellers. He has won the Los Angeles Times History Book of the Year Award and the National Jewish Book Award.
In Israel, Ambassador Oren served as an officer in the Israel Defense Forces, in the paratroopers in the Lebanon War, a liaison with the U.S. Sixth Fleet during the Gulf War, and an IDF spokesman during the Second Lebanon War and the Gaza operation in January 2009. He acted as an emissary to Jewish refuseniks in the Soviet Union, as an advisor to Israel’s delegation to the United Nations, and as the government’s director of Inter-Religious Affairs. He was a gold medal-winning athlete in the Maccabiah Games.
Ambassador Oren and his wife, Sally, have three children.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/09/2022: Former Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren’s new book, Swann’s War appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Shelly Christensen, the Senior Director of Faith Inclusion and Belonging at RespectAbility, discusses her pioneering work in the faith community disability and mental health inclusion movement.
Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming ServiceYou can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.
The Seekers of Meaning TV Show is also available on the J-Link video service from the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey. You can sign up for the service at https://www.jlink-snj.org/seekers-of-meaning
You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.
Listen to the Audio PodcastYou can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.
- Apple Podcasts
- Google Podcasts
- Spotify
- Podchaser
- Stitcher About the GuestShelly ChristensenShelly Christensen, the Senior Director of Faith Inclusion and Belonging at RespectAbility, is a pioneer and leader in the faith community disability and mental health inclusion movement. Her passion for this work is anchored by her experiences as the parent of a child with autism and as a neurodivergent person.
As Program Manager of the Minneapolis Jewish Community Inclusion Program for People with Disabilities for nearly 13 years, her innovative leadership approach supported synagogues, schools, community centers, and other agencies.
In 2009, Shelly co-founded the Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM), which is marked annually in February. She is the author of From Longing to Belonging—A Practical Guide to Including People with Disabilities and Mental Health Conditions in Your Faith Community, as well as The Jewish Community Guide to Inclusion of People with Disabilities.
Shelly has consulted with numerous Jewish organizations and is a popular keynote speaker and trainer. She is involved in leadership for a variety of interfaith disability inclusion organizations, including the Core Council of the Institute on Theology and Disability, the Faith Inclusion Network, and is the past president of the Religion and Spirituality Interest Network of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, earning Fellow status for her contributions to the field of religion, spirituality, and disability.
Shelly is the 2021 recipient of the Religion and Spirituality Network’s Reimagining Spirituality Award. Shelly earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Minnesota and her Master of Arts degree in Developmental Disabilities from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. She lives in Burnsville, MN with her husband Rick.
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/2/2022: Faith Community Disability and Mental Health Inclusion, with Shelly Christensen of Respectability.org appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address was the guest speaker at the October 30, 2022 weekly breakfast of the South Jersey Men's Club, which meets at the Katz JCC in Cherry Hill each Sunday. [Read more...]
The post Rabbi Address is Guest Speaker at South Jersey Men’s Club 10/30/2022 appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week’s Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast features David and Melissa Bernstein, who have founded PowerOf5Life.com to provide books, courses, and recipes for better health outcomes for baby boomers. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/25/2022: David and Melissa Bernstein, PowerOf5Life.com Courses and Recipes for Better Health appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Dr. Stephen Goldfine, chief medical officer, and Joanne Rosen, chief marketing and public affairs officer of Samaritan, discuss palliative and hospice care options. [Read more...]
The post SOM 11/18/2022: A Discussion of Samaritan’s Palliative and Hospice Services appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Dr. Steven Moss discusses his new book, Jewish Wisdom for Living and Dying: A Spiritual Journey Through the Prayers and Rituals of Maavor Yabok and Sefer HaHayiim. [Read more...]
The post SOM 11/11/2022: Rabbi Dr. Steven Moss, author of “Jewish Wisdom for Living and Dying” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, author and humorist Matt Goldberg discusses his forthcoming book, Rings of Kindness, an anthology that features more than 80 true stories of [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/28/2022: Matt Goldberg, Humorist, Author of “Rings of Kindness” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Andrew Goretsky, regional director of the ADL in Philadelphia, discusses the rising trend of antisemitism in the US. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/14/2022: Andrew Goretsky, Regional Director, ADL, Philadelphia appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Bryan Kinzbrunner discusses his New Beginnings Spiritual Coaching and Consulting LLC, a spiritual life coaching practice based in NJ. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/7/2022: Rabbi Bryan Kinzbrunner, Spiritual Coach appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz returns to discuss his social justice commentary on the Book of Proverbs. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/30/2022: Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz discusses his social justice commentary on the Book of Proverbs appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Richard F. Address, founder and director of Jewish Sacred Aging, provided this video message as we begin the Rosh Hashanah holiday for 5783.
The post Rosh Hashanah Video Message from Rabbi Richard Address appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week's guests on the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast are Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors of a new collection of essays, A God We Can Believe In. [Read more...]
The post ENCORE: Seekers of Meaning 5/13/2022: Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors, “A God We Can Believe In” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Toba Spitzer discusses her book, God Is Here: Reimagining the Divine. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/16/2022: Rabbi Toba Spitzer, author of “God is Here: Reimagining the Divine” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Larry Kotok and Rev. Rick McCall discuss the relevance of theology in challenging times. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/9/2022: Rabbi Larry Kotok and Rev. Rick McCall discuss theology in challenging times appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Hollis Citron, founder and CEO of I Am Creative & Express Yourself Publishing and her mother, Susan Gross, discuss their experience creating a widows' support group for Susan's community and the importance of Jewish communities like synagogues creating and nurturing such groups. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/2/2022: Hollis Citron and Susan Gross, Widows Group Organizers appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is Amy Seigel, RN, CCM, founder and CEO of Advocare Geriatric Care Services in South Florida. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/26/2022, Amy Seigel, Founder and CEO, Advocare Geriatric Care Services appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Elana Zaiman discusses her book, The Forever Letter: Writing What We Believe For Those We Love. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/19/2022: Rabbi Elana Zaiman, author of “The Forever Letter” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is Sara Zeff Geber, Ph.D., author of the book Essential Retirement Planning for Solo Agers. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 8/5/2022: Dr. Sara Zeff Geber, expert in Solo Aging appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Sandy Taradash describes the living tribute to her parents recently dedicated at Camp Newman in California. [Read more...]
The post Everything Was A Very Long Time Ago… appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address speaks with Rabbi Mendel Moskovitz, ambassador for the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/29/2022: Rabbi Mendel Moskovitz, Ukrainian Rabbi, Ambassador for Jewish Relief Network Ukraine appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week, Dr. Keren Etkin discusses her book, "The AgeTech Revolution: A Book about the Intersection of Aging and Technology." [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/22/2022: Dr. Keren Etkin, Author of “The AgeTech Revolution” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
In this episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Linda Hershman, LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) and author of Gray Divorce: Everything You Need to Know About Later-Life Breakups. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/15/2022: Linda Hershman, Marriage and Family Therapist, Expert on Late-Life Divorce appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbanit Dasi Fruchter is guest. Rabbanit Fruchter is the leader of the newly formed Modern Orthodox congregation known as the South Philadelphia Shtiebel (southphiladelphiashteibel.org). [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 7/8/2022: Rabbanit Dasi Fruchter, founder of Modern Orthodox “South Philly Shtiebel” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman, Ph.D., the Barbara and Stephen Friedman Professor Emeritus of Liturgy, Worship and Ritual at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, New York, discusses new ways of looking at worship ritual and liturgy. [Read more...]
The post ENCORE: Seekers of Meaning 5/20/22: Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman, Ph.D., Discusses New Approaches to Liturgy and Worship appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is Tia Newcomer, CEO of CaringBridge.org, a nonprofit social network that helps people connect with family and friends during a health journey. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast 6/24/2022: Tia Newcomer, CEO of CaringBridge.org appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Stephen Karol, rabbi emeritus of Temple Isaiah in Stony Brook, New York, returns to the program to discuss his latest book, Embracing the Supernatural in Judaism: Signs from Our Deceased Loved Ones and Stories About The World-to-Come. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/17/2022: Rabbi Stephen Karol appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address's guest is Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, scholar-in-residence for the National Council of Jewish Women, author of a continuing newsletter on the Torah called "Life is a Sacred Text," and author of a new book, On Repentance And Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/10/2022: Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, Scholar in Residence, National Council of Jewish Women appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Ilan Glazer and Cantor Hinda Labovitz discuss their support group for parents who have lost children, Our Love Continues. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 6/3/2022: Our Love Continues, Support Group for Bereaved Parents, with Rabbi Ilan Glazer and Cantor Hinda Labovitz appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week's guests on the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast are Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors of a new collection of essays, A God We Can Believe In. [Read more...]
The post ENCORE: Seekers of Meaning 5/13/2022: Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors, “A God We Can Believe In” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman, Ph.D., the Barbara and Stephen Friedman Professor Emeritus of Liturgy, Worship and Ritual at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, New York, discusses new ways of looking at worship ritual and liturgy. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/20/22: Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman, Ph.D., Discusses New Approaches to Liturgy and Worship appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week's guests on the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast are Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors of a new collection of essays, A God We Can Believe In. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/13/2022: Rabbis Rifat Sonsino and Richard Agler, editors, “A God We Can Believe In” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, David Bernstein, founder of the Jewish Institute of Liberal Values, discusses the Institute's work in encouraging principled debate over political and social issues. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 5/6/2022: David Bernstein, founder of the Jewish Institute for Liberal Values appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Kyle Ruffin, author of "In Stroke's Shadow: My Caregiver's Story," talks about caring for her mother after she suffered a debilitating stroke. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/29/2022: Kyle Ruffin, author of In Stroke’s Shadow: My Caregiver’s Story appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbis Jeffrey Salkin (center) and Gregory Marx (right) discuss their recent humanitarian mission to the Polish border with Ukraine to deliver aid to Ukrainian refugees. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/22/2022: A Humanitarian Mission to Help Ukrainian Refugees appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, elder care law attorney Jerold Rothkoff discusses issues surrounding elder care and elder law. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 4/8/2022: Elder Care Attorney Jerold Rothkoff appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
iscusses his work establishing YATOM: The Jewish Foster & Adoption Network. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning TV Show 3/25/2022: Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz on YATOM: The Jewish Foster & Adoption Network appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
The guest is Karen Hoffman, Founder/CEO Living on Purpose, who develops workshops, activities and resources to facilitate shared connections and personal growth. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 3/11/2022: Karen Hoffman, Founder/CEO , Living on Purpose appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address chats with Rabbi Barry Block, editor of The Mussar Torah Commentary: A Spiritual Path to Living a Meaningful and Ethical Life, is this week's guest on the Seekers of Meaning Podcast. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/25/2022: Rabbi Barry Block, editor, “The Social Justice Torah Commentary” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
The United States has no comprehensive approach to caregiving or the caregiver. Rabbi Address introduces Caregiver: The Movie" as a starting point for discussions. [Read more...]
The post Alert: The Crisis in Caregiving is Here! appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Noam Zion, author of the new book, Sanctified Sex: The Two-Thousand-Year Jewish Debate on Marital Intimacy. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/18/2022: Noam Zion, Author of “Sanctified Sex” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Address discusses heart health with Robert Andrew Singer, M.D., F.A.C.C. Dr. Singer is the chief of cardiology and medical director of the non-invasive cardiology lab at Virtua South, Voorhees, New Jersey. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/11/2022: Dr. Robert Singer, Virtua Health cardiologist, on heart health appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is William Peters, a practicing grief and bereavement therapist and author of the new book, At Heaven's Gate. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 2/4/2021: Author William Peters, author of “At Heaven’s Door” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
This week's guest is Richard Brownstein, author of Holocaust Cinema Complete: A History and Analysis of 400 Films, with a Teaching Guide, just published by McFarland Press. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/28/2022: Richard Brownstein, author of “Holocaust Cinema Complete” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is Jewish singer-songwriter Peri Smilow. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 1/21/2022: Singer-Songwriter Peri Smilow appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Simkha Y. Weintraub, LCSW, retired Rabbinic Director of the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services in New York City, discusses [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 01/14/2022: Rabbi Simkha Y. Weintraub, LCSW appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes Lee Hendler and David Raphael, founders of the Jewish Grandparents Network. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 01/07/2022: Jewish Grandparents’ Network appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
As the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast takes a week off to ring in the New Year 2022, we present an encore of our Nov. 19, 2021 program with Dr. Jessica Zitter, director [Read more...]
The post ENCORE Seekers of Meaning: Dr. Jessica Zitter, producer/director of “Caregiver: A Love Story” film appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, guest Regina Wurst discusses her book, "Josh: My Story," a Baby Boomer saga, a tale of survival, a conversion journey, a spiritual quest, or simply the life of a mid-century Oakland girl nicknamed Josh. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/24/2021: Regina Wurst, author of “Josh: My Story” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Judith Graham, the "Navigating Age" columnist for Kaiser Health News, is the guest on this week's TV show and podcast. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/17/2021: Judith Graham, ‘Navigating Aging’ Columnist appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week's episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Agler discusses experiencing the life-changing loss of his daughter's death, and his book, The Tragedy Test: Making Sense of Life-changing Loss: A Rabbi's Journey. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/10/2021: Rabbi Richard Agler on Life-Changing Loss and his book, “The Tragedy Test” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guest is Lisa Skinner, author of the book, Truth,Lies and Alzheimer’s; Its Secret Faces. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it’s estimated [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 12/3/2021: Lisa Skinner, author of “Truth,Lies and Alzheimer’s; Its Secret Faces” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address chats with Dr. Jessica Zitter, director and producer of the documentary, Caregiver: A Love Story. Over the past decade, we’ve [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/19/2021: Dr. Jessica Zitter, producer/director of “Caregiver: A Love Story” film appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Julea Gasner of Yad LaKashish describes the challenges the social service organization faces providing resources for aging residents in Jerusalem. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast 11/12/2021: Julea Gasner, Yad LaKashish appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Stephen Fuchs, former president of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, and author of the new book, "And Sometimes the First Jew," which chronicles the accomplishments, adventures, and “firsts” in Germany for Rabbi Fuchs and his wife Vickie, who are both children of Holocaust survivors. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 11/05/2021: Rabbi Stephen Fuchs, author of “And Often the First Jew” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Michael Perice, senior rabbi of Temple Sinai, Cinnaminson, New Jersey, discusses his calling to the rabbinate and his decision to reveal to his congregation his successful battle for recovery from substance abuse. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 10/15/2021: Rabbi Michael Perice, Temple Sinai, Cinnaminson, NJ appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Rabbi Edwin Goldberg, rabbi of Congregation Beth Shalom of The Woodlands, Houston, TX, and Rabbi Elaine Zecher, senior rabbi of Temple Israel, Boston, discuss their new CCAR Press book, Because My Soul Longs for You. [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning: Rabbis Edwin Goldberg and Elaine Zecher discuss new book, “Because My Soul Longs for You” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
Authors Richard Leider and David Shapiro discuss their new book, "Who Do You Want to Be When You Grown Old?" [Read more...]
The post Richard Lieder and David Shapiro Discuss Their Book, “Who Do You Want to Be When You Grow Old?” appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, the guests are Taylor Paige Winfield Haboucha, the founder of RUACH Emotional and Spiritual Support, and Rabbi Karen Sussan, LMHC, an Emotional Support [Read more...]
The post Seekers of Meaning 9/24/2021: RUACH Emotional and Spiritual Support appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Michael Meyer, the Adolph S. Ochs Emeritus Professor of Jewish History at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, discusses his new [Read more...]
The post Prof. Michael Meyer, Author of New Book on Rabbi Leo Baeck appeared first on Jewish Sacred Aging.