Hat Radio: The Show that Schmoozes

Join us for an engaging episode of Parsha & Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara as we explore the Torah portion of Bamidbar through the lens of the iconic 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption, directed by Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King's novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. In Bamidbar, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Jewish people, assessing their numbers and strength as they prepare to enter Canaan. Rabbi Gemara masterfully connects this parsha to The Shawshank Redemption, drawing parallels between the structured organization of the Israelite camp and the enduring hope of the film's protagonist, Andy Dufresne, who clings to hope in the face of an oppressive prison environment. Through lively discussions, heartfelt stories, and moments of laughter and reflection, Rabbi Gemara and I (Avrum) uncover the profound themes of hope and purpose that resonate in both the parsha and the film. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation! Am Yisrael Chai.

Join us for an engaging episode of Parsha & Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara as we explore the Torah portion of Bamidbar through the lens of the iconic 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption, directed by Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King's novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. In Bamidbar, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Jewish people, assessing their numbers and strength as they prepare to enter Canaan. Rabbi Gemara masterfully connects this parsha to The Shawshank Redemption, drawing parallels between the structured organization of the Israelite camp and the enduring hope of the film's protagonist, Andy Dufresne, who clings to hope in the face of an oppressive prison environment. Through lively discussions, heartfelt stories, and moments of laughter and reflection, Rabbi Gemara and I (Avrum) uncover the profound themes of hope and purpose that resonate in both the parsha and the film. Tune in for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation! Am Yisrael Chai.

LUKE FOX: VETERAN SPORTS WRITER SHARES HIS INSIGHT ABOUT THE TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS

LUKE FOX: VETERAN SPORTS WRITER SHARES HIS INSIGHT ABOUT THE TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS

What does it mean to grow up Jewish—really Jewish—in a world caught between tradition and change? In Memoirs of a Good Jewish Boy, writer and humorist Mike Benhaim takes us on a nostalgic, laugh-out-loud, and deeply human journey through his upbringing as the child of a Sephardic father and Ashkenazi mother. From mismatched family customs to the cultural comedy of Jewish holidays, Benhaim's stories will resonate with anyone who's ever tried to reconcile where they come from with where they're going.

'Memoirs of a Good Jewish Boy' by Mike Benhaim, is a heartfelt, hilarious Tale of Jewish Identity. What does it mean to grow up Jewish—really Jewish—in a world caught between tradition and change? In Memoirs of a Good Jewish Boy, writer and humorist Mike Benhaim takes us on a nostalgic, laugh-out-loud, and deeply human journey through his upbringing as the child of a Sephardic father and Ashkenazi mother. From mismatched family customs to the cultural comedy of Jewish holidays, Benhaim's stories will resonate with anyone who's ever tried to reconcile where they come from with where they're going.

Peter Samuelson is an extraordinary figure—a true Renaissance man whose impact spans film, philanthropy, and literature. His work as a producer on films like 'Revenge of the Nerds' and 'Return of the Pink Panther' shows his knack for storytelling, while founding seven charities, including the Starlight Children's Foundation with Steven Spielberg, highlights his commitment to social good. His upcoming book, 'Finding Happy: A User's Guide to Your Life, With Lessons From Mine', seems poised to inspire young adults and parents alike, drawing from his remarkable life. A UK-born "giant" in every sense, Samuelson's ability to scale walls—literal and figurative—defines his legacy as a serial pro-social entrepreneur, husband, father, and grandfather.

Peter Samuelson is an extraordinary figure—a true Renaissance man whose impact spans film, philanthropy, and literature. His work as a producer on films like 'Revenge of the Nerds' and 'Return of the Pink Panther' shows his knack for storytelling, while founding seven charities, including the Starlight Children's Foundation with Steven Spielberg, highlights his commitment to social good. His upcoming book, 'Finding Happy: A User's Guide to Your Life, With Lessons From Mine', seems poised to inspire young adults and parents alike, drawing from his remarkable life. A UK-born "giant" in every sense, Samuelson's ability to scale walls—literal and figurative—defines his legacy as a serial pro-social entrepreneur, husband, father, and grandfather.

Welcome to Mindful with Miskin, the podcast that uncovers the transformative power of meditation for both soul and body. Joining me is Gershon Miskin, an Orthodox Jew and dedicated meditation practitioner, whose years of mindfulness experience bring profound wisdom to our discussion. Together, we'll explore how meditation fosters spiritual growth and enhances physical health, weaving together ancient practices and cutting-edge science. Hear about a 2017 Lancet study showing meditation's ability to lower cortisol and ease anxiety to its potential as a pathway to inner peace and outer vitality. Gershon will share practical breathing techniques, ideal times and places to meditate, and tips for quieting those relentless thoughts that never seem to stop. So, settle in, take a deep breath, and let's embark on this mindful journey with Gershon Miskin!

Welcome to Mindful with Miskin, the podcast that uncovers the transformative power of meditation for both soul and body. Joining me is Gershon Miskin, an Orthodox Jew and dedicated meditation practitioner, whose years of mindfulness experience bring profound wisdom to our discussion. Together, we'll explore how meditation fosters spiritual growth and enhances physical health, weaving together ancient practices and cutting-edge science. Hear about a 2017 Lancet study showing meditation's ability to lower cortisol and ease anxiety to its potential as a pathway to inner peace and outer vitality. Gershon will share practical breathing techniques, ideal times and places to meditate, and tips for quieting those relentless thoughts that never seem to stop. So, settle in, take a deep breath, and let's embark on this mindful journey with Gershon Miskin!

Welcome to today's episode, where we're joined by Ronald Lieber, an award-winning poet whose debut collection, 'The Long Journey Out', weaves a lifetime of experiences into evocative verses. Born in Japan to a Japanese mother and a Jewish-American military father, Ronald's early life spanned fourteen homes by age fourteen, shaping his unique perspective. A former Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica, a retired English professor from SUNY Nassau, and a licensed psychoanalyst in New York City, Ronald recently completed plant medicine guide training in Philadelphia. His poetry, praised by Kirkus Review for its penetrating exploration of wonder and emotion, draws from seven decades of reflection.

Welcome to today's episode, where we're joined by Ronald Lieber, an award-winning poet whose debut collection, 'The Long Journey Out', weaves a lifetime of experiences into evocative verses. Born in Japan to a Japanese mother and a Jewish-American military father, Ronald's early life spanned fourteen homes by age fourteen, shaping his unique perspective. A former Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica, a retired English professor from SUNY Nassau, and a licensed psychoanalyst in New York City, Ronald recently completed plant medicine guide training in Philadelphia. His poetry, praised by Kirkus Review for its penetrating exploration of wonder and emotion, draws from seven decades of reflection.

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.