Belonging: A New Podcast from Congregation Rodeph Sholom NYC

What if the key to resilience lies in our shared quest for belonging? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Robert Accordino, a respected psychiatrist and integral member of our Rodeph Sholom community. Through his experiences, we uncover how initiatives like Music for Autism and CRS's Shireinu Initiative redefine inclusivity, offering individuals with developmental conditions a space to truly belong. Robert opens up about the profound influence of his family and the resilience they instilled, shaping his path in medicine and his commitment to fostering inclusive communities.

Jane Dystel's journey is nothing short of transformative, from discovering her Jewish roots later in life, to becoming a beacon of community and support at Rodeph Sholom. Tune in to hear how Jane, despite not growing up with a religious foundation, embraced her faith through her marriage and son's involvement in Jewish traditions. Her story is a testament to the power of finding one's place and the importance of fostering a community where everyone feels they belong. Jane's advocacy for caregiver support, inspired by personal experiences with her brother and husband, underscores her unwavering commitment to building networks of care and belonging.

Rachael Evans' inspiring journey to belonging unfolds in our latest episode, as she goes from a girl enchanted by dance in a Christian studio to a pivotal figure at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Her move to New York, fueled by an unwavering belief that she belonged there, was fraught with challenges. Yet, an unexpected audition at a synagogue opened doors to lifelong friendships and a role as Chief of Staff and Operations, proving that perseverance and community can lead to unimaginable opportunities. Rachael's story is a stirring reminder of how life's twists and turns can guide us home, both professionally and personally.

Lisa Timmel's unexpected journey from the bustling world of theater to the serene gardens of Central Park offers a narrative rich with transformation and authenticity. As a renowned dramaturg, Lisa found the courage to pivot towards a life that truly resonated with her values and passions, illustrating a heartfelt quest for self-belonging. With Lisa, we uncover the layers of her spiritual journey, from her Catholic upbringing to her embrace of Judaism, driven by a desire to harmonize her inner and outer worlds. Her story reminds us of the universal search for fulfillment and the significance of being in the right place with the right people, much like the plants she nurtures.

Join us as we unravel the remarkable journey of Risa Schessel, who galvanized her sense of gratitude and Jewish identity following a health crisis. Risa's early years were shaped by constant relocations and a distant connection to her faith, but her path took a fascinating turn during her time at the University of Texas and her involvement in a Christian sorority. Her story takes a transformative leap after she moved to New York and married Harry, an Orthodox Jew, leading to their shared decision to raise their children in the Jewish tradition. This pivotal choice deepened Risa's engagement with Judaism, culminating in her becoming an adult Bat Mitzvah.

What does it truly mean to belong, and how do personal hardships shape our sense of community? Join us as Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist Nick Fineman takes us on a journey through the highs and lows of his career in TV news. Nick's compelling narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a family legacy in media, where he determinedly carved out his own path despite initial struggles and recent personal losses, including the recent death of his father. His heartfelt reflections reveal how moments of discomfort and growth lead to a deeper understanding of connection and comfort.

What if the power of community and dedication could shape generations? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Richard and Barbara Lustig, pillars of Congregation Rodeph Sholom. With Richard's family ties spanning five generations and Barbara's four, their story is one of legacy, love, and devotion. From their meeting at a CRS Purim Carnival to 64 years of marriage, their shared commitment to nurturing and inspiring future generations has left a lasting impact on the community. Richard's wartime experiences and Barbara's dedication to choir and service showcase their resilience and love.

What if the stories we tell could bridge divides and foster a deeper sense of belonging? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Neal Shapiro, a veteran journalist with experience throughout the media industry, as he candidly shares his journey through Judaism and journalism. From facing anti-Semitism in Albany to his impactful role at ABC News during historic events like the Falklands War and Watergate scandal, Neal's story is one of resilience, purpose, and the search for community.

In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a heartfelt exploration with Nikki Fisher,  a veteran, mother, and leader in the Rodeph Sholom School community. Nikki shares her journey from growing up in Chicago and Toledo, to the structured ranks of military life, and the continuous battle with racial and gender expectations. This candid conversation will leave you with a profound appreciation for the nuances of belonging and inspire you to embrace your true self.

In today's episode, we speak with Jack Levitt, a cornerstone of Congregation Rodeph Sholom.  Growing up navigating the vibrant streets of New York's West Side, where the shadow of World War II loomed, Jack's narrative intertwines with the city's heartbeat and shows that in the face of global and local fractures, the role of the synagogue emerges as a sanctuary for solace and connection. With wisdom and warmth, he shares the pivotal moments that drew him closer to our traditions, emphasizing the power of mentorship and community in shaping a sense of belonging. 

In this latest episode, we had the privilege of engaging in an enriching conversation with Lloyd Moore, the Deputy Director of Security at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Lloyd shares his journey, from his early days as an NYPD officer to becoming a beacon of safety at CRS. Throughout the episode, Lloyd shares heartfelt stories, rooted in hard work and human connection, that paint a vivid picture of his lifelong quest to cultivate warmth and belonging in every space he enters.

Our latest episode features this esteemed honorary trustee and beacon of  Congregation Rodeph Sholom, Mary Harkavy. She unravels tales of her lifelong quest for belonging and the profound impact of forging strong relationships within the synagogue. Mary's reflections on her service, the importance of listening to younger voices, and her role in sustaining our shared heritage, offer a treasure trove of wisdom for nurturing a vibrant community.

The Rubin family, spanning three generations at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, open up about their pursuit of belonging,  and the celebration of their roots. Throughout this episode, the stories of Gabin Rubin, Samantha Chinn and Asher Rubin, unfold as a tapestry woven with the threads of Jewish identity, family legacy, and the universal human quest for acceptance. 

When the echoes of a family's past shape the present, the tapestry of life becomes rich with stories of resilience and belonging. Dr. Walter Weiss, lovingly known as Wally, joins us to unravel his parents' gripping escape from Europe during the Holocaust, weaving a narrative that has profoundly influenced his own life journey—from the sacredness of his synagogue to his esteemed career in medicine. His reflections are a poignant reminder of how the struggles and triumphs of our forebears can deeply affect our own sense of identity and community.

In a compelling narrative that interweaves personal history with the universal quest for belonging, Jessica Politis's story unfolds as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of community support. As a cherished member of the Rodeph Sholom community, Jessica recounts her family's migration from the Soviet Union to New York, offering listeners a portrait of liberty, the pursuit of dreams, and the embrace of heritage. The podcast episode dives deep into Jessica's experiences, reflecting on the contrasts between oppression and freedom, and how the warmth of the Jewish community in New York provided a welcoming haven for her family.

Stefano Iacono has been the Assistant Cantor at Congregation Rodeph Sholom in New York since 2021. A native of San Antonio, Stefano lives in Brooklyn with his husband, Alex.