Hat Radio: The Show that Schmoozes

Welcome to Parsha and Prose, where Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and I weave the Torah's timeless wisdom with the insights of great literature. This week, we're diving into the double Torah portion Acharei Mot-Kedoshim (Leviticus 16:1–20:27), which grapples with the aftermath of Nadav and Avihu's deaths, the Yom Kippur atonement rituals, and a call to holiness through ethical and ritual laws. Through the lens of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, we explore how Holden Caulfield's restless quest for authenticity and his struggle with a “phony” world mirrors the Torah's demand for genuine connection to God and others. Just as Acharei Mot seeks purification after loss and Kedoshim urges us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18), Holden's yearning to protect innocence and find truth reflects a search for meaning in a fractured society. Join us as we uncover how these texts challenge us to confront our flaws, embrace sincerity, and build a life of purpose amidst chaos.

Welcome to Parsha and Prose, where Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and I weave the Torah's timeless wisdom with the insights of great literature. This week, we're diving into the double Torah portion Acharei Mot-Kedoshim (Leviticus 16:1–20:27), which grapples with the aftermath of Nadav and Avihu's deaths, the Yom Kippur atonement rituals, and a call to holiness through ethical and ritual laws. Through the lens of J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, we explore how Holden Caulfield's restless quest for authenticity and his struggle with a “phony” world mirrors the Torah's demand for genuine connection to God and others. Just as Acharei Mot seeks purification after loss and Kedoshim urges us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18), Holden's yearning to protect innocence and find truth reflects a search for meaning in a fractured society. Join us as we uncover how these texts challenge us to confront our flaws, embrace sincerity, and build a life of purpose amidst chaos.

In this episode , we dive into the stories and insights of a fascinating individual helping to shape the world around us! I am thrilled to interview Ethan Daniel Davidson, an author, a Detroit-based folk singer-songwriter, philanthropist, and multifaceted creative with a truly unique journey. With eleven albums to his name and a career that's taken him across North America and Europe, Ethan's music reflects his deep storytelling roots and life experiences. We'll discuss Ethan's most recent book: “And They Arose Early To Do Sexual Violence: My Personal Mirror of Torah” - a book dealing with sexual violence in classic Jewish texts. Beyond the stage, Ethank is a key figure in Detroit's philanthropic community, helping lead the William Davidson Foundation, established by his late father, Bill Davidson, former owner of the Detroit Pistons and Tampa Bay Lightning. From his early days resisting the family business to embracing his role in preserving its legacy, Ethan's story is one of balance, courage, and purpose. Join us as we explore his insights on music, legacy, and making a difference

Welcome to this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, where I dive into the intersections of faith, culture, and politics with thought-provoking voices. My guest is the very prolific, Michael Coren—an acclaimed journalist, author and priest whose incisive writing and bold perspectives have sparked conversations across the globe. From his books like The Rebel Christ and Hatred: Islam's War on Christianity to his columns tackling social justice, religious freedom, and more, Michael brings a unique blend of conviction, wit, and clarity to the table. He is a husband, a father of four, and a grandfather, and in this episode we'll explore his roots, relationships, his commitment to kindness and what it means to engage with faith and reason in the modern age. Michael is very inspiring and offers us many special moments to grow through.

Welcome to this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, where I dive into the intersections of faith, culture, and politics with thought-provoking voices. My guest is the very prolific, Michael Coren—an acclaimed journalist, author and priest whose incisive writing and bold perspectives have sparked conversations across the globe. From his books like The Rebel Christ and Hatred: Islam's War on Christianity to his columns tackling social justice, religious freedom, and more, Michael brings a unique blend of conviction, wit, and clarity to the table. He is a husband, a father of four, and a grandfather, and in this episode we'll explore his roots, relationships, his commitment to kindness and what it means to engage with faith and reason in the modern age. Michael is very inspiring and offers us many special moments to grow through.

Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', and our series, 'PARSHA & PROSE' with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA, where we dive into the timeless wisdom of the Torah, weaving its teachings with insights from literature, culture, and human experience. In this episode, we explore the Torah portion Tazria-Metzora (Leviticus 12:1–15:33) through the lens of William Shakespeare's King Lear. At first glance, these texts seem worlds apart—one a sacred exploration of ritual purity and affliction, the other a tragic drama of betrayal and redemption. Yet, both grapple with profound questions about human vulnerability, isolation, and the search for meaning amidst suffering. AM YISRAEL CHAI!

Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', and our series, 'PARSHA & PROSE' with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA, where we dive into the timeless wisdom of the Torah, weaving its teachings with insights from literature, culture, and human experience. In this episode, we explore the Torah portion Tazria-Metzora (Leviticus 12:1–15:33) through the lens of William Shakespeare's King Lear. At first glance, these texts seem worlds apart—one a sacred exploration of ritual purity and affliction, the other a tragic drama of betrayal and redemption. Yet, both grapple with profound questions about human vulnerability, isolation, and the search for meaning amidst suffering. AM YISRAEL CHAI!

Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we dive deep into the art and soul of acting. Today, we're honored to sit down with the legendary Ivana Chubbuck, a world-renowned acting teacher whose transformative Chubbuck Technique has empowered countless performers to tap into their deepest emotions and deliver unforgettable performances. From Hollywood's biggest stars to aspiring actors, Ivana's approach to accessing personal pain and feelings has redefined authenticity on screen and stage. Join us as we discuss Ivana's book: THE POWER OF THE ACTOR, a brilliant compendium of thoughts and reflections on working with some of the greats in Hollywood including: Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron, Gal Gadot, Sylvester Stallone, Eva Mendes, Shia LaBeouf and many more. For more information on how to learn from Ivana, see: www.ivanachubbuck.com/ Let's get started!

Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we dive deep into the art and soul of acting. Today, we're honored to sit down with the legendary Ivana Chubbuck, a world-renowned acting teacher whose transformative Chubbuck Technique has empowered countless performers to tap into their deepest emotions and deliver unforgettable performances. From Hollywood's biggest stars to aspiring actors, Ivana's approach to accessing personal pain and feelings has redefined authenticity on screen and stage. Join us as we discuss Ivana's book: THE POWER OF THE ACTOR, a brilliant compendium of thoughts and reflections on working with some of the greats in Hollywood explore her groundbreaking methods, uncover the secrets to powerful storytelling, and learn how to turn vulnerability into victory. Ivana has worked with Halle Berry, Brad Pitt, Charlize Theron, Gal Gadot, Sylvester Stallone, Eva Mendes, Shia LaBeouf and many more. For more information on how to learn from Ivana, see: www.ivanachubbuck.com/ Let's get started!

Please, view/listen to this very compelling episode of PARSHA & PROSE with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA. Here you will learn how Rabbi Gemara ties the Torah portion Shmini (Leviticus 9:1–11:47), with its narrative of the Tabernacle's inauguration, the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu, and the laws of kashrut, into Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning, which explores finding purpose in life's highs and lows. You will hear how in Shmini, the divine fire that consumes the offerings (Leviticus 9:24) reflects moments of transcendent meaning, akin to Frankl's belief that purpose can emerge in awe-inspiring experiences. Yet, the sudden loss of Aaron's sons (Leviticus 10:1–3), met with Aaron's silent resilience, mirrors Frankl's insight that “suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning, such as the meaning of a sacrifice.” The kashrut laws (Leviticus 11) further align with Frankl's view of meaning as personal and specific, as they guide Israel to holiness through deliberate choices. Through Shmini, we see that meaning arises not only in joy and obedience but also in navigating tragedy and discipline, echoing Frankl's call to choose one's attitude and purpose in every circumstance. This is a most fascinating episode of PARSHA AND PROSE. Enjoy, comment and subscribe.

Please, view/listen to this very compelling episode of PARSHA & PROSE with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA. Here you will learn how Rabbi Gemara ties the Torah portion Shmini (Leviticus 9:1–11:47), with its narrative of the Tabernacle's inauguration, the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu, and the laws of kashrut, into Viktor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning, which explores finding purpose in life's highs and lows. You will hear how in Shmini, the divine fire that consumes the offerings (Leviticus 9:24) reflects moments of transcendent meaning, akin to Frankl's belief that purpose can emerge in awe-inspiring experiences. Yet, the sudden loss of Aaron's sons (Leviticus 10:1–3), met with Aaron's silent resilience, mirrors Frankl's insight that “suffering ceases to be suffering at the moment it finds a meaning, such as the meaning of a sacrifice.” The kashrut laws (Leviticus 11) further align with Frankl's view of meaning as personal and specific, as they guide Israel to holiness through deliberate choices. Through Shmini, we see that meaning arises not only in joy and obedience but also in navigating tragedy and discipline, echoing Frankl's call to choose one's attitude and purpose in every circumstance. This is a most fascinating episode of PARSHA AND PROSE. Enjoy, comment and subscribe.

This episode contains descriptions of sexual violence, physical abuse, and trauma. It is not suitable for children. But it is necessary listening — for anyone who wants to understand what it means to survive… and to speak out. Today, you'll hear the voice of a woman who refused to stay silent — even when the world around her demanded it.

This episode contains descriptions of sexual violence, physical abuse, and trauma. It is not suitable for children. But it is necessary listening — for anyone who wants to understand what it means to survive… and to speak out. Today, you'll hear the voice of a woman who refused to stay silent — even when the world around her demanded it.

In this special, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara, Torah scholar, talks with Avrum Rosensweig about how the Torah defines leadership and the requirements of someone who represents a nation. The Rabbi speaks about President Donald Trumps commitment to the Jewish people and Israel and how that stands in the forefront of his support of him. Whether you are a supporter of President Trump or not, this interview is educational on the Torah ideas re. leadership, both for Jewish and non-Jewish leaders.

In this special, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara, Torah scholar, talks with Avrum Rosensweig about how the Torah defines leadership and the requirements of someone who represents a nation. The Rabbi speaks about President Donald Trumps commitment to the Jewish people and Israel and how that stands in the forefront of his support of him. Whether you are a supporter of President Trump or not, this interview is educational on the Torah ideas re. leadership, both for Jewish and non-Jewish leaders.

Listen/Watch this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' with Brett Berns who schmoozes about his father, a world renowned songwriter and producers in the sixties who worked with Ronald Isley, Ben E. King, Solomon Burke, Van Morrison, Keith Richards and Paul McCartnery - all of whom are in Brett's documentary about his dad. Brett talks openly and authentically about his love for his father, whom he never met because he died at 38 years-old as an aftermath of childhood rheumatic fevor. Brett also tells about his time in the Israel Defence Forces and his great love of the State of Israel.

Listen/Watch this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' with Brett Berns who schmoozes about his father, a world renowned songwriter and producers in the sixties who worked with Ronald Isley, Ben E. King, Solomon Burke, Van Morrison, Keith Richards and Paul McCartnery - all of whom are in Brett's documentary about his dad. Brett talks openly and authentically about his love for his father, whom he never met because he died at 38 years-old as an aftermath of childhood rheumatic fevor. Brett also tells about his time in the Israel Defence Forces and his great love of the State of Israel.

This is a wonderful interview with Caleb Shraeder, from Kansas City, who was motivated to let go of Christianity after hitting 'rock bottom' and embrace Judaism and the Torah. In this interview Caleb talks about his transition in life through discussion with Rabbis and learning the Torah portions. Caleb lets us into the trauma he experienced as a nurse, and the philosophy he's developed behind workwork. Caleb is a man with purpose and meaning, who once did not have any. He is a father and says he now has joy in his life.

This is a wonderful interview with Caleb Shraeder, from Kansas City, who was motivated to let go of Christianity after hitting 'rock bottom' and embrace Judaism and the Torah. In this interview Caleb talks about his transition in life through discussion with Rabbis and learning the Torah portions. Caleb lets us into the trauma he experienced as a nurse, and the philosophy he's developed behind workwork. Caleb is a man with purpose and meaning, who once did not have any. He is a father and says he now has joy in his life.

This is a very exciting PARSHA & PROSE. It is because Rabbi Gemara and I discuss the first parsha in VA'YIKRA (also known as Va'yikra) through the lens of a lovely, warm and compelling book, 'THE LITTLE PRINCE'. Here, the Rabbi explains the ideas of sacrifices in a unqiue and refreshing way, expressing the relationshipal aspect of offering animals to God. He compares this to the beautiful discovery that the little prince makes while on a trip to different planets, one of which is ultimately earth. I was emotional preparing for this podcast, and then questioning my co-host on the essence of the parsha and the book itself. Sometimes, I do an interview which truly moves me, more then others. This episode did. Have a look/a listen. It's a very special time together. I think you'll agree!

This is a very exciting PARSHA & PROSE. It is because Rabbi Gemara and I discuss the first parsha in VA'YIKRA (also known as Va'yikra) through the lens of a lovely, warm and compelling book, 'THE LITTLE PRINCE'. Here, the Rabbi explains the ideas of sacrifices in a unqiue and refreshing way, expressing the relationshipal aspect of offering animals to God. He compares this to the beautiful discovery that the little prince makes while on a trip to different planets, one of which is ultimately earth. I was emotional preparing for this podcast, and then questioning my co-host on the essence of the parsha and the book itself. Sometimes, I do an interview which truly moves me, more then others. This episode did. Have a look/a listen. It's a very special time together. I think you'll agree!

If you want to enhance your pride in being a Jew, and a Canadian watch this interview with three leaders in small Jewish communities across the nation. Here, I interview Heidi Coleman from Kamloops, British Columbia; Howard Slepkov, of St. Catharines, Ontario and Marilyn Kaufman from Fredericton, New Brunswick. Listen to these three powerful Jewish leaders who talk about the history of their communities, leadership, extensive programming, relationship with the State of Israel and their relationship with non-Jews where they live. Hear too their views on the larger Jewish communities across Canada and the potential to create stronger and advantageous relationships with them. I am from Kitchener, Ontario where my father was rabbi, and therefore have a special place in my heart for the smaller Jewish communities. It is for this reason I embrace my guests and am honored to interview them. Am Yisrael Chai. Proud to be a Jew.

If you want to enhance your pride in being a Jew, and a Canadian watch this interview with three leaders in small Jewish communities across the nation. Here, I interview Heidi Coleman from Kamloops, British Columbia; Howard Slepkov, of St. Catharines, Ontario and Marilyn Kaufman from Fredericton, New Brunswick. Listen to these three powerful Jewish leaders who talk about the history of their communities, leadership, extensive programming, relationship with the State of Israel and their relationship with non-Jews where they live. Hear too their views on the larger Jewish communities across Canada and the potential to create stronger and advantageous relationships with them. I am from Kitchener, Ontario where my father was rabbi, and therefore have a special place in my heart for the smaller Jewish communities. It is for this reason I embrace my guests and am honored to interview them. Am Yisrael Chai. Proud to be a Jew.

This week's "PARSHA & PROSE" offers some deeply meaningful reflections. Rabbi Shlomo Gemara's discussion of the Torah portion, Pikudei through the lens of 'The Emperor's New Clothes', is highly intriguing. The rabbi ties the intricate beauty of the Tabernacle to a more spiritual perspective, and that is emphasizing the importance of seeing God clearly through the magnificence of the structure and what lies within it.

This week's "PARSHA & PROSE" offers some deeply meaningful reflections. Rabbi Shlomo Gemara's discussion of the Torah portion, Pikudei through the lens of 'The Emperor's New Clothes', is highly intriguing. The rabbi ties the intricate beauty of the Tabernacle to a more spiritual perspective, and that is emphasizing the importance of seeing God clearly through the magnificence of the structure and what lies within it.

Watch/listen to this powerful interview with Igal Hecht, a documentarian who created, 'The Killing Roads', about Route 232 and Highway 32 in southern Israel where marauding gunmen from Gaza mowed down 250 people in cold blood on OCTOBER 7th. Igal discusses the process of filming this most difficult footage, with mothers, sons and daughters, wives and friends who lost their loved ones during this day of carnage. Igal expresses his passion for Israel and the Jewish people. He encourages the Jewish people In Canada and around the world to fight against anti-Semitism and stand tall and proud as Jews. The documentarian can be found at: www.thekillingroads.com. Please watch it and share it far and wide, so nobody will be able to deny the atrocities that happen to our people and others on OCTOBER 7TH. Am Yisrael Chai!!!

Watch/listen to this powerful interview with Igal Hecht, a documentarian who created, 'The Killing Roads', about Route 232 and Highway 32 in southern Israel where marauding gunmen from Gaza mowed down 250 people in cold blood on OCTOBER 7th. Igal discusses the process of filming this most difficult footage, with mothers, sons and daughters, wives and friends who lost their loved ones during this day of carnage. Igal expresses his passion for Israel and the Jewish people. He encourages the Jewish people In Canada and around the world to fight against anti-Semitism and stand tall and proud as Jews. The documentarian can be found at: www.thekillingroads.com. Please watch it and share it far and wide, so nobody will be able to deny the atrocities that happen to our people and others on OCTOBER 7TH. Am Yisrael Chai!!!

If you would like to understand Israeli Jews, to get to know someone who made aliyah from Queens, New York (move to Israel) close to thirty years ago, then have a listen to this schmooze with Rashi Rosenzweig. He lives in Raanana, Israel, is married with four boys, and just yesterday found himself, like all other Israelis in the region, running down to a bomb shelter once again, as a ballistic missile made its way from Yemen. In this interview, we learn about the genesis of his first name (Rashi was a famous rabbi found in the Talmud and the Torah), the spelling of his last name (which is different than mine), his passion for acting and knowledge of the city he made aliyah to. Rashi is your classic Israel citizen who share a small country and is deeply in love with the Jewish people. This is an hour and half spent with a man who decided to make Israel his home, and despite the wars and Intifadas never once thought about leaving it. Am Yisrael Chai.

If you would like to understand Israeli Jews, to get to know someone who made aliyah from Queens, New York (move to Israel) close to thirty years ago, then have a listen to this schmooze with Rashi Rosenzweig. He lives in Raanana, Israel, is married with four boys, and just yesterday found himself, like all other Israelis in the region, running down to a bomb shelter once again, as a ballistic missile made its way from Yemen. In this interview, we learn about the genesis of his first name (Rashi was a famous rabbi found in the Talmud and the Torah), the spelling of his last name (which is different than mine), his passion for acting and knowledge of the city he made aliyah to. Rashi is your classic Israel citizen who share a small country and is deeply in love with the Jewish people. This is an hour and half spent with a man who decided to make Israel his home, and despite the wars and Intifadas never once thought about leaving it. Am Yisrael Chai.

The Torah portion Vayakhel focuses on the communal effort to build the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of individual contributions to a collective, sacred goal. Viewed through the lens of My Name is Asher Lev, this theme resonates with the protagonist's struggle to reconcile his personal artistic vision with the expectations of his religious community. Just as the Israelites are called to contribute their unique skills to create a space for God's presence, Asher's art becomes his personal, albeit contentious, means of seeking divine understanding. However, like the voluntary sacrifices made in Vayakhel, Asher's commitment to his art comes at a personal cost—alienating him from his family and community. Both Vayakhel and Asher's journey reflect the tension between individual expression and communal belonging, and the painful sacrifices that come with pursuing one's calling in the face of collective expectations.

The Torah portion Vayakhel focuses on the communal effort to build the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of individual contributions to a collective, sacred goal. Viewed through the lens of My Name is Asher Lev, this theme resonates with the protagonist's struggle to reconcile his personal artistic vision with the expectations of his religious community. Just as the Israelites are called to contribute their unique skills to create a space for God's presence, Asher's art becomes his personal, albeit contentious, means of seeking divine understanding. However, like the voluntary sacrifices made in Vayakhel, Asher's commitment to his art comes at a personal cost—alienating him from his family and community. Both Vayakhel and Asher's journey reflect the tension between individual expression and communal belonging, and the painful sacrifices that come with pursuing one's calling in the face of collective expectations.

In Milkweed and Honey Cake: A Memoir in Ritual Moments, Wendy A. Horwitz shares stories about celebration, loss, change, and the best way to open a pomegranate, holidays delight and disappointment. In the book, Wendy talks about a couple marrying in the pandemic finds a surprise after a rainstorm, and a topsy-turvy search for a gravestone honors her ancestors. When a graduation is cancelled, Horwitz serves pomp and circumstance on the front porch, and through the shifting seasons of a life, amid the scramble of pet guinea pigs and birthday parties, her children add wonder and comedy to tradition. With observations from nature, religion, and literature, Horwitz explores how ritual can exalt ordinary moments and frame the extraordinary. A blue heron, an old cupboard's scent, and the lingering feel of an engagement ring long gone prompt reflections laced with yearning and humor. Guiding us along a wooded path, to the kitchen table, in a messy garden, and under a tent reverberating with song, she traces the boundaries of ritual, considering what we do when ritual falls short, and how we might adapt each other's practices. And when the wider world seems broken, new rituals provide hope.

In Milkweed and Honey Cake: A Memoir in Ritual Moments, Wendy A. Horwitz shares stories about celebration, loss, change, and the best way to open a pomegranate, holidays delight and disappointment. In the book, Wendy talks about a couple marrying in the pandemic finds a surprise after a rainstorm, and a topsy-turvy search for a gravestone honors her ancestors. When a graduation is cancelled, Horwitz serves pomp and circumstance on the front porch, and through the shifting seasons of a life, amid the scramble of pet guinea pigs and birthday parties, her children add wonder and comedy to tradition. With observations from nature, religion, and literature, Horwitz explores how ritual can exalt ordinary moments and frame the extraordinary. A blue heron, an old cupboard's scent, and the lingering feel of an engagement ring long gone prompt reflections laced with yearning and humor. Guiding us along a wooded path, to the kitchen table, in a messy garden, and under a tent reverberating with song, she traces the boundaries of ritual, considering what we do when ritual falls short, and how we might adapt each other's practices. And when the wider world seems broken, new rituals provide hope.

Rabbi Daniel Korobkin, the senior Rabbi at The Beth Avraham Yosef Congregation of Toronto, one of the world's largest Orthodox synagogues, answers questions about his perspectives on the Torah, and support for President Donald Trump. Rabbi Korobkin states that the most important thing with Trump, or all leadership is, results. He added that the three reason many people in the religious community support Donald Trump is because: a) he is fighting a woke culture; b) his work toward strengthening the economy and mostly c) his support of Israel and the Jewish people. The Rabbi does not feel Trump is a 'bad' man and believes he is a man of peace and wants the best for America, Israel and the world. The Rabbi also stated, we have to be vigilante of Trump, just as we would be any politicians.

Rabbi Daniel Korobkin, the senior Rabbi at The Beth Avraham Yosef Congregation of Toronto, one of the world's largest Orthodox synagogues, answers questions about his perspectives on the Torah, and support for President Donald Trump. Rabbi Korobkin states that the most important thing with Trump, or all leadership is, results. He added that the three reason many people in the religious community support Donald Trump is because: a) he is fighting a woke culture; b) his work toward strengthening the economy and mostly c) his support of Israel and the Jewish people. The Rabbi does not feel Trump is a 'bad' man and believes he is a man of peace and wants the best for America, Israel and the world. The Rabbi also stated, we have to be vigilante of Trump, just as we would be any politicians.

Welcome to today's episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we sit down with three of Hollywood's finest: Julian Schlossberg, Steve Stoliar, and Paul Saltzman. These legendary figures have shaped the film industry, and in this intimate conversation, they share not just stories of their careers, but the deeper connections they have with movies, family, and life itself. From unforgettable moments behind the camera to heartwarming family anecdotes, Julian, Steve, and Paul offer a rare glimpse into the true magic of Hollywood — the people, the passion, and the legacies they've built over decades. Tune in for a fascinating journey through the world of cinema, as they discuss their experiences and what it means to live a life filled with film, family, and unforgettable memories.

Welcome to today's episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we sit down with three of Hollywood's finest: Julian Schlossberg, Steve Stoliar, and Paul Saltzman. These legendary figures have shaped the film industry, and in this intimate conversation, they share not just stories of their careers, but the deeper connections they have with movies, family, and life itself. From unforgettable moments behind the camera to heartwarming family anecdotes, Julian, Steve, and Paul offer a rare glimpse into the true magic of Hollywood — the people, the passion, and the legacies they've built over decades. Tune in for a fascinating journey through the world of cinema, as they discuss their experiences and what it means to live a life filled with film, family, and unforgettable memories.

The Torah portion Ki Tisa, which tells the story of the golden calf and the aftermath of the Israelites' disobedience, can be explored through the lens of the Megillat Esther, highlighting themes of repentance, leadership, divine intervention but more so, how the Jewish people are when God and leadership is invisible. In Ki Tisa, after the Israelites fall into idolatry, Moses' leadership is put to the test. His passionate plea for the people's forgiveness, and his willingness to risk his own life for their redemption, mirrors Esther's selfless courage in saving the Jewish people in Persia. Both Moses and Esther step into roles of immense responsibility, facing dire consequences, but also demonstrating the power of prayer, action, and the ability to change the course of history. In both stories, divine intervention is subtly at work, as God listens to Moses' entreaties and ultimately saves the people, just as He works behind the scenes in the Megillah to bring about Esther's success. The connection between the two narratives underscores the enduring relevance of leadership, faith, and the ability to seek forgiveness and redemption.

The Torah portion Ki Tisa, which tells the story of the golden calf and the aftermath of the Israelites' disobedience, can be explored through the lens of the Megillat Esther, highlighting themes of repentance, leadership, divine intervention but more so, how the Jewish people are when God and leadership is invisible. In Ki Tisa, after the Israelites fall into idolatry, Moses' leadership is put to the test. His passionate plea for the people's forgiveness, and his willingness to risk his own life for their redemption, mirrors Esther's selfless courage in saving the Jewish people in Persia. Both Moses and Esther step into roles of immense responsibility, facing dire consequences, but also demonstrating the power of prayer, action, and the ability to change the course of history. In both stories, divine intervention is subtly at work, as God listens to Moses' entreaties and ultimately saves the people, just as He works behind the scenes in the Megillah to bring about Esther's success. The connection between the two narratives underscores the enduring relevance of leadership, faith, and the ability to seek forgiveness and redemption.

On today's episode, I'm excited to introduce Bernie M. Farber, an Ottawa-born writer, commentator, and tireless social activist. Bernie's work spans across multiple causes, rooted deeply in his personal history as the son of a Holocaust survivor. He's the former CEO of both the Canadian Jewish Congress and Veahavta, the Canadian Jewish humanitarian and relief committee. His commitment to human rights and social justice has seen him testify as an expert witness on hate crime, as well as serve as the CEO of the Mosaic Institute, a Canadian NGO dedicated to promoting pluralism, peace, and conflict resolution internationally. Bernie has also worked with the Paloma Foundation, focusing on homeless youth shelters, and his insights on human and civil rights have appeared in major outlets like the Huffington Post and the Canadian Jewish News. From 2018 to 2023, he chaired the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, and now serves as its founding chair emeritus. Bernie's drive for activism is rooted in a simple yet profound lesson from his father, a Holocaust survivor, who told him to “open a mouth” in the fight for freedom. Ladies and gentlemen, Bernie Farber.

On today's episode, I'm excited to introduce Bernie M. Farber, an Ottawa-born writer, commentator, and tireless social activist. Bernie's work spans across multiple causes, rooted deeply in his personal history as the son of a Holocaust survivor. He's the former CEO of both the Canadian Jewish Congress and Veahavta, the Canadian Jewish humanitarian and relief committee. His commitment to human rights and social justice has seen him testify as an expert witness on hate crime, as well as serve as the CEO of the Mosaic Institute, a Canadian NGO dedicated to promoting pluralism, peace, and conflict resolution internationally. Bernie has also worked with the Paloma Foundation, focusing on homeless youth shelters, and his insights on human and civil rights have appeared in major outlets like the Huffington Post and the Canadian Jewish News. From 2018 to 2023, he chaired the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, and now serves as its founding chair emeritus. Bernie's drive for activism is rooted in a simple yet profound lesson from his father, a Holocaust survivor, who told him to “open a mouth” in the fight for freedom. Ladies and gentlemen, Bernie Farber.

Hear Yair Mozes, the son of Gadi Mozes, speak about his father who was held hostage by Hamas terrorists who abducted him during the October 7, 2023 assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz, when his wife, Efrat Katz was murdered on that day in their home. Gadi was a hostage for 482 days. While as a hostage, he was left alone the entire time; he paced seven kilometers a day in his two-square-meter room, counted the tiles on the floor and solved math problems to pass the time and keep his mind sharp. His glasses were broken during the kidnapping, but after two months he managed to get new ones from his captors and was able to read two books. Once every five days or so Mozes was given a bowl of tepid water to shower with, using a cup to pour the water over his head. He insisted on shaving himself, despite it being a messy and painful affair. This is a fascinating conversation with a son who loves and is devoted to his dad, a former hostage in Gaza. And by the way, while his father was imprisoned, Yair did not shave. Upon his return from Gaza, Gadi shaved his son's beard.

Hear Yair Mozes, the son of Gadi Mozes, speak about his father who was held hostage by Hamas terrorists who abducted him during the October 7, 2023 assault on Kibbutz Nir Oz, when his wife, Efrat Katz was murdered on that day in their home. Gadi was a hostage for 482 days. As a hostage, Gadi was left alone the entire time; he paced seven kilometers a day in his two-square-meter room, counted the tiles on the floor and solved math problems to pass the time and keep his mind sharp. His glasses were broken during the kidnapping, but after two months he managed to get new ones from his captors and was able to read two books. Once every five days or so Mozes was given a bowl of tepid water to shower with, using a cup to pour the water over his head. He insisted on shaving himself, despite it being a messy and painful affair. This is a fascinating conversation with a son who loves and is devoted to his dad, a former hostage in Gaza. And by the way, while his father was imprisoned, Yair did not shave. Upon his return from Gaza, Gadi shaved his son's beard.

Welcome to today's episode with special guest, the incredibly talented Fred Melamed. Fred has had a remarkable career spanning decades, from his early work as a renowned voiceover artist to becoming one of Hollywood's most celebrated character actors. Known for his unforgettable performances in films like A Serious Man, Hail, Caesar!, and Shiva Baby, Fred has also had a long-standing collaboration with Woody Allen, appearing in seven of his films, including Radio Days, Husbands and Wives, and Crimes and Misdemeanors. On television, Fred has brought to life memorable characters like Bruce Ben-Bacharach in Lady Dynamite, Gumbald in Adventure Time, and Arthur Hart in WandaVision, earning him recognition as one of the greatest character actors working today. Plus, he's a proud father of twin sons whom he speaks about in length. Join us as we dive into Fred's storied career, his experiences with some of the biggest names in film and TV, his Jewishness, on being adopted and what it's like balancing fatherhood with life in the spotlight.

Welcome to today's episode with special guest, the incredibly talented Fred Melamed. Fred has had a remarkable career spanning decades, from his early work as a renowned voiceover artist to becoming one of Hollywood's most celebrated character actors. Known for his unforgettable performances in films like A Serious Man, Hail, Caesar!, and Shiva Baby, Fred has also had a long-standing collaboration with Woody Allen, appearing in seven of his films, including Radio Days, Husbands and Wives, and Crimes and Misdemeanors. On television, Fred has brought to life memorable characters like Bruce Ben-Bacharach in Lady Dynamite, Gumbald in Adventure Time, and Arthur Hart in WandaVision, earning him recognition as one of the greatest character actors working today. Plus, he's a proud father of twin sons whom he speaks about in length. Join us as we dive into Fred's storied career, his experiences with some of the biggest names in film and TV, his Jewishness, on being adopted and what it's like balancing fatherhood with life in the spotlight.

In this episode, we're joined by Gershon Miskin, a devoted husband, father of seven, as well as a successful businessman. Gershon's life took a profound turn when he embarked on a spiritual journey that started in the framework of religious Judaism. His quest for deeper understanding led him beyond tradition into the realms of meditation, mindfulness, and past lives. Through these practices, Gershon discovered a new layer of self-awareness and inner peace that reshaped his life and perspective. Tune in to this fascinating discussion, as Gershon and I, explore how his journey transformed not only his own spiritual path but also his approach to family, business, and life as a whole.