Power Up!

In this powerful episode, we explore the three core relationships every human being must cultivate for a life of depth and balance: our relationship with ourselves, our relationship with others, and our relationship with God.Drawing from timeless Jewish wisdom, we unpack the three spiritual tools designed to help us grow in each area:Torah – as a mirror to develop self-awareness and purpose.Prayer – as a pathway to build a real and personal relationship with God.Kindness – as the soul-language that connects us deeply with other people.We reflect on the idea that these tools aren't abstract or outdated — they're deeply human, practical, and transformative. With relatable stories, thoughtful insights, and actionable takeaways, this episode is a roadmap for spiritual and emotional wellness grounded in Jewish tradition.

In this eye-opening class, we dive deep into the powerful forces of jealousy, lust, and honor-seeking—three drives that Rabbi Elazar HaKappar warns can take a person out of this world. But where do these impulses come from? Why do they have such a strong hold on us? And most importantly, what can we do to rise above them?We explore the roots of these desires, how they show up in daily life, and how Jewish wisdom offers transformative antidotes to each one. Through timeless teachings and real-life applications, you'll walk away with clarity, tools for inner strength, and a renewed perspective on what truly matters.

In this special Shavuot episode of the PowerUp Podcast, we dive into one of the most compelling and powerful Midrashim about the giving of the Torah: the cosmic “fight” between Moses and the angels.Who is the Torah really for? Angels, who are pure and perfect? Or human beings—with all our flaws, struggles, and failures?Join us as we explore:-The deeper meaning behind the angels' objection to giving the Torah to mankind- The bold and brilliant response that affirmed the Torah's rightful place on Earth- Why the mitzvos—far from being outdated—are more relevant than ever in our modern lives- How Shavuot calls on each of us to step into the arena, embrace our imperfections, and strive for greatness through Torah livingThis is an episode about courage, responsibility, and divine faith in humanity. Whether you're new to Torah or have been learning for years, this conversation will leave you inspired by just how personal and powerful the Torah truly is.

In this powerful episode, we explore one of the most well-known — and puzzling — stories from the time of the Omer: the tragic death of Rabbi Akiva's 24,000 students. Why did such a spiritually elite group meet such a harsh end? And more importantly, what message is this story trying to send us across the centuries?Join us as we uncover the deeper meaning behind the Talmudic statement that they “did not show proper respect for one another” — and how this applies not just to how we treat others, but also how we view ourselves.Whether you're in the middle of counting the Omer or just looking to grow in character and connection, this episode will leave you with practical insight into the Jewish approach to honor, humility, and healthy relationships.

A fascinating discussion as we dive into the remarkable journey of Rabbi Akiva—one of the most influential sages in Jewish history. From humble beginnings as an uneducated shepherd to becoming a towering Torah scholar with 24,000 students, Rabbi Akiva's life is full of powerful lessons about perseverance, faith, love, and leadership. We explore key moments in his story, including his late start in learning, his deep partnership with his wife Rachel, and his unwavering belief in the future of the Jewish people—even in times of national tragedy.

We explore the powerful Jewish belief in techiyat ha-meitim — the resurrection of the dead — and how it offers a transformative lens for how we live our lives today. Far from being just a theological concept about the distant future, belief in the resurrection calls us to recognize the eternal value in every moment of life.We discuss:What the resurrection means in Jewish traditionWhy belief in it is one of the Thirteen Principles of FaithHow it reshapes our relationship with time, choices, and purposeThe idea that nothing is wasted — not an action, word, or opportunityWhether you've thought deeply about the resurrection or are hearing about it for the first time, this episode will leave you inspired to infuse every moment of life with meaning.

Lets explore a powerful and timeless topic — the coming of the Messiah. Why is belief in the Messiah so central to Jewish faith? How does it shape our daily lives, our hopes, and our future?We'll discuss:What Judaism teaches about the coming of the MessiahWhy belief in the Messiah isn't just about the future — it's about how we live todayThe emotional and spiritual strength that comes from believing in redemptionHow hope for a better world drives personal growth and communal unityIf you liked this, you'll love my book Living Beautifully - how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot

Why were we in such a rush to leave Egypt? Couldn't we have taken a little more time, packed some snacks, maybe even let the dough rise?In this episode of the PowerUp Podcast, we dive into one of the most curious details of the Exodus story — the haste. We explore why leaving Egypt in a hurry was not just circumstantial, but spiritual. The matzah, our flat and humble bread of affliction, holds within it profound lessons about urgency.

Does Judaism believe in divine reward and punishment? How do our actions—and even our thoughts—shape our spiritual and physical reality? In this episode, we explore the Jewish perspective on accountability, consequences, and the deeper meaning behind reward and punishment.Join us as we unpack these deep and sometimes challenging ideas, offering insights that can help us live more intentionally and with a greater sense of purpose.

How does G-d communicate with us? In this episode, we dive into the nature of divine communication, exploring the role of prophecy in Jewish tradition, the unique relationship between G-d and Moses, and what this means for our understanding of the Torah's truth.We'll discuss:The concept of prophecy in JudaismWhy Moses' prophecy was unique among all prophetsHow the Torah is considered the ultimate divine communicationWhether G-d still speaks to us today, and how we can recognize His presence in our livesThrough ancient texts and modern insights, we unpack the ways G-d reaches us and what this means for our personal and communal journey.

What does it mean to have a divine soul? How do we connect with God in a deep and personal way? In this episode, we explore the nature of the divine soul, its connection to the infinite, and how understanding this relationship can transform our spiritual journey.Through ancient wisdom and modern insights, we unpack the duality of the human experience—the pull between the physical and the spiritual—and how recognizing our divine essence can bring clarity, strength, and purpose to our lives.

Purim is more than just costumes, hamantaschen, and graggers—it's a story of power, faith, and personal transformation. In this episode, we dive into the profound ideological clash between Mordechai and Haman. What drove their conflict, and how did their worldviews shape the Purim story? We also explore Esther's remarkable metamorphosis from a passive figure to a bold leader who risks everything for her people. And finally, we unpack one of Purim's greatest lessons: why we should embrace hard things in life, just as Esther did.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into a fundamental yet complex question: What does God want us to think about God? Exploring Jewish perspectives, Torah sources, and philosophical insights, we examine how our understanding of God shapes our faith, actions, and relationship with the divine.Our perception of God influences our spiritual growth, decision-making, and the way we relate to others. This episode provides clarity and inspiration for anyone looking to deepen their connection to God.

Judaism has some deep, and fascinating beliefs—some you might know, and some that will totally surprise you! In this episode, we're diving into the beliefs that set Judaism apart from other religions. Whether you're curious, or just love a good mind-blowing discussion, this one's for you.

How do we start our day with purpose, gratitude, and strength? In this episode, we explore the profound impact of the Morning Blessings (Berachot HaShachar) and how they help us recognize G-d's guidance in our lives. These blessings are more than just words—they shape our mindset, fortify our resilience, and remind us that we are never alone.Join us as we break down the deeper meanings behind these prayers, share insights on cultivating faith and trust, and offer practical ways to bring more mindfulness into your morning routine. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with G-d, build resilience, or simply start your day with a greater sense of clarity, this episode is for you.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who could use a little extra strength and faith in their mornings!

In this episode, we explore the deep significance of the morning blessings (Birkot HaShachar), focusing on the blessings of clothing (Malbish Arumim) and freedom (Matir Asurim). Clothing is more than just fabric—it's a symbol of dignity, protection, and self-expression. We discuss how these blessings remind us of both physical and emotional liberation, the power of boundaries, and how we can integrate mindfulness into our daily rituals.Reflection Question:How does what you wear—physically and emotionally—shape your day? Take a moment to reflect on the blessings of clothing and freedom in your life.Connect & Share:✨ Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross for more reflections and discussions.✨ Leave a review and share your thoughts on today's episode!✨ Subscribe for more weekly episodes on spirituality, mindfulness, and daily blessings.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Morning Blessings (Birkot HaShachar)—a powerful series of prayers that set the tone for the day. These blessings, recited each morning, guide us in cultivating gratitude, mindfulness, and connection with the world around us. We'll explore their meaning, how they shape our mindset, and practical ways to integrate their lessons into our daily lives. Key Takeaways:

In this heartwarming episode, we dive into the power of morning prayers to set the tone for your day. Today's focus? Self-appreciation and understanding. Life gets busy, and we often overlook the most important relationship we have: the one with ourselves. These simple yet profound prayers are designed to help you connect with your inner self, embrace your uniqueness, and find peace in the present moment.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the universal struggle with prayer. Why does it sometimes feel so hard to connect, to find the words, or to stay consistent in prayer? Together, we explore the deep spiritual dynamics that can make prayer challenging and uncover the profound insights behind two distinct types of prayer: the Leah prayer and the Rachel prayer. We discuss: - The Struggle to Pray: Common reasons why people find it difficult to pray, from distractions and doubt to feelings of inadequacy or a lack of connection. - Leah vs. Rachel Prayer: The difference between the personal, Leah prayer and the global Rachel prayer. Whether you're a seasoned prayer warrior or just starting to reconnect with your spiritual side, this episode offers relatable insights and actionable ideas to deepen your prayer life. Connect with Us:We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on prayer and which type of prayer resonates most with you. Connect with us on Instagram @itsgilaross or send us an email at gilaross@gmail.com . Don't Miss an Episode!Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review to help others discover the show.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the beauty, challenges, and questions surrounding prayer. Whether you're new to prayer, struggling to find meaning, or looking for ways to deepen your connection, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and practical guidance. We'll explore: The purpose and power of prayer. What to do when your prayers feel unanswered. FAQs: Common questions people ask about prayer. Join us as we uncover the timeless wisdom behind prayer and discover how it can be a transformative tool in your spiritual journey. Prayer is a deeply personal journey. It's okay to have questions, moments of doubt, or challenges. The important thing is to keep showing up and finding ways to make prayer meaningful for you. Follow us on Instagram: @itsgilaross Have questions about prayer? Email us at gilaross@gmail.com.

Chanukah is a time of light, celebration, and reflection, but its message goes deeper than oil that lasted eight days. It's a story that beautifully weaves together miracles from above and the incredible power of human effort. In this episode, we dive into the dual lessons of Chanukah: recognizing divine intervention while embracing the transformative power of self-help and personal initiative. Join us as we explore: The balance between relying on miracles and taking action in our own lives. How the Maccabees' courage and determination are a blueprint for resilience and self-reliance. Ways we can apply these lessons to overcome challenges and light up our own lives. The enduring relevance of Chanukah's message in today's world. Reflection Questions: How do you balance taking initiative with trusting in forces beyond your control? Have you ever experienced a “miracle” that began with your own effort? What steps can you take to create light in your own life and for those around you? Actionable Tips: Start Small: Just as the Maccabees did, take one bold step toward your goal and trust the process. Notice the Miracles: Reflect on moments in your life where unexpected help or outcomes emerged. Connect With Us: Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross for more insights and inspiration. Share your Chanukah reflections or personal stories of miracles at gilaross@gmail.com Chanukah teaches us that while we can hope for miracles, we also have the power to create them. Tune in to learn how this timeless lesson can bring light and strength into your life! For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq Chanukah isn't just a celebration of miracles and light; it's also a profound lesson about the different kinds of illumination we bring to our lives. In this episode, we explore the two types of lights we see in life and what it teches us about the daily grind of consistency and the moments of unexpected brilliance. Join us as we discuss: - The symbolic meaning of the menorah's lights and their relevance to our personal journeys. - How consistency in small, everyday actions creates the foundation for meaningful living. Reflection Questions: - How do you stay consistent in your daily responsibilities and routines? - When was the last time you experienced a moment of “miraculous” inspiration? - How can you bring more light—both steady and extraordinary—into your life and the lives of others? Connect With Us: - Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross and Facebook for more insights into the wisdom of Chanukah and beyond. - Share your reflections or stories of light and miracles at gilaross@gmail.com This Chanukah, let's learn to honor the grind while celebrating the sparks of the miraculous. Tune in to find the inspiration to light up your life every day!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In a world where apologies are increasingly performed on public platforms like social media, how do we navigate the deeply personal and nuanced act of forgiveness? In this episode, we explore the controversy of seeking forgiveness online, the complexities of letting go of hurt, and how to discern when it's time to repair or release a relationship. Join us as we delve into: The rise of social media apologies: Are they genuine or performative? How to process hurt and determine whether to offer forgiveness. When it's time to work on a relationship and when it's better to walk away. Reflection Questions: How do you feel about public apologies on social media? Do they seem authentic or hollow? Is there a hurt you're holding onto that you're ready to release? How do you decide whether to mend or end a challenging relationship? Connect With Us: Follow us on @itsgilaross on Instagram or Facebook for episode updates and deeper discussions. Share your thoughts or forgiveness journey with us at gilaross@gmail.com Forgiveness, whether personal or public, is a complex and deeply human process. Tune in for insights and tools to help you navigate this journey with clarity and compassion.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq Friendships are one of the most rewarding yet complex aspects of life. In this episode, we dive into the art of navigating friendships, from how we treat others to mending and balancing relationships, and even letting go when necessary. Whether you're looking to strengthen connections or move forward with grace, this episode is packed with insights to guide your journey. 1. How We Should Treat Others. 2. How We Can Change the Relationship 3. How to Bring Back Balance into a Relationship: 4. How to Let Go of Grudges: Friendships are dynamic, and nurturing them takes time and care. Whether you're strengthening a bond, finding balance, or learning to let go, every step brings you closer to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Don't forget to share this episode with a friend—it might just spark an incredible conversation! Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram: ⁠@itsgilaross⁠ Email us your friendship stories or questions: ⁠gilaross@gmail.com⁠ Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spread the art of friendship far and wide!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this heartwarming and insightful episode, we dive into the art of building meaningful friendships. Why are friendships so vital to our well-being? How can we deepen our connections with others, and what does it take to maintain these bonds over time? Whether you're looking to strengthen existing relationships or forge new ones, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice to help you navigate the world of friendship. Listener Challenge: This week, do one thing to invest in friendships! Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram: @itsgilaross Email us your friendship stories or questions: gilaross@gmail.com Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spread the art of friendship far and wide!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq What does it mean to live a good life? In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Sarah, one of the most influential figures in Jewish history, to uncover timeless lessons about defining and achieving a life of meaning, fulfillment, and purpose. Sarah's life was far from simple—marked by challenges, resilience, and unwavering faith. We'll delve into what we can learn from Sarah about cultivating joy, gratitude, and connection even in difficult times. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq What differentiates the patriarchs and matriarchs from other Biblical personalities? We delve into some of their personalities and the challenges they had throughout their lives and we see something profound that can teach us what to expect in our lives and how we can achieve balance. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we explore the complex and often hidden roots of self-sabotage. Why do we sometimes act in ways that go against our own best interests? Through insights from Torah, we unpack the underlying fears and limiting beliefs that contribute to self-sabotaging patterns. From procrastination to negative self-talk, self-sabotage can appear in many forms, subtly hindering our progress in both personal and professional realms. Self-sabotage can ultimately hold us back from our true potential. By identifying its roots, we can begin the journey toward self-acceptance, resilience, and freedom from these limiting patterns. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

Get one of the last few copies!! For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we dive into the core elements that shape the Jewish spiritual experience. We explore the "DNA of Judaism" through three foundational concepts: the fear of God, the pursuit of self-mastery, and the Jewish perspective on our relationship with God. These principles not only frame Jewish spirituality but also serve as a guide for leading a meaningful and purpose-driven life. By unpacking each of these elements, we uncover how they connect deeply to our daily lives and to the greater purpose of Jewish faith. Key Themes and Takeaways: 1. Fear of God: Reverence and Awe - What It Means: Fear of God is often misunderstood as fear of punishment, but in Judaism, it's about cultivating awe and respect for the Divine. This reverence shapes how we conduct ourselves, make decisions, and approach the ethical dimensions of life. 2. Self-Mastery: - What It Means: In Jewish thought, self-mastery isn't about suppressing our desires but rather elevating them to serve a greater good. It's about self-discipline, resilience, and aligning our behavior with our values. 3. Our Relationship with God: Connection and Partnership - What It Means: The Jewish relationship with God is built on a foundation of connection and partnership. Rather than seeing God as distant, we view the Divine as an active presence in our lives, guiding, supporting, and challenging us. --- Closing Thoughts: Together, the fear of God, self-mastery, and our relationship with the Divine form the "DNA of Judaism." These elements remind us that our lives are not random but meaningful, with opportunities for growth, connection, and service. By integrating these principles into our lives, we carry the torch of Jewish wisdom and share its light with the world. Subscribe and Share: If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to our podcast to continue exploring the deeper layers of Jewish life. Please share with others who may be seeking inspiration, as we continue to bring timeless teachings into everyday conversation.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq We have a mitzvah to be happy on sukkot 1. How can we be told to be happy?? 2. Wouldn't having to sit in an uncomfortable sukkah detract from our happiness? Let's discover what happiness is and how to achieve it Subscribe and Share: If this episode inspired you to keep going, please subscribe and share it with others who may need help in their own journey of making change stick. Let's continue to learn and grow together!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, ahead of Yom Kippur we take a deep dive into what it really takes to make meaningful, lasting changes in our lives. We'll explore how we deal with failure, the role of effort and resilience in creating change, and the problems with procrastination. More importantly, we'll share strategies to help you push through setbacks and make your efforts stick for the long term. Some themes: - Understanding failure as an inevitable part of any change journey. - How to reframe failure not as a dead end, but as a learning experience that helps refine your approach. - The importance of a growth mindset: viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit. - Why procrastination is often a barrier to change, leading to delay and avoidance. - Recognizing the small wins along the way and celebrating progress, even if it's not perfect. - How to foster self-compassion throughout the process and give yourself grace while striving for progress. -- Change is hard, but it's also possible with the right mindset, effort, and tools. This episode is a reminder that failure doesn't mean you've reached the end of the road—it's just a bump along the way. By pushing through procrastination, building resilience, and focusing on consistent effort, you can turn your goals into reality and make lasting change stick. Subscribe and Share: If this episode inspired you to keep going, please subscribe and share it with others who may need help in their own journey of making change stick. Let's continue to learn and grow together!

The astonishing answer to why knowledge of what we should and shouldn't do is not enough to help us change. And what we need instead. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my almost sold out book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq -- Any questions or feedback, get in touch gilaross@gmail.com

In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful stories of personal transformation in the Bible: the journey of Rachav (Rahab). Once known as a harlot in the city of Jericho, Rachav made a bold decision that changed her life forever. Her story challenges us to think about the capacity for change, redemption, and how people can rise above their past to embrace a new identity and purpose. Lessons for Today - What we can learn from Rachav's story about personal change and transformation in our own lives. - How to apply Rachav's journey to our own lives, whether it's through forgiveness, starting fresh, or encouraging others on their path to change. Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and share it with others who may find inspiration in Rachav's incredible story of transformation! Let's keep exploring how ancient wisdom can illuminate our paths today. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

Are you allowed to vent? What about whistle-blowing? This episode focuses on understanding the concept of lashon hara (negative speech) in Jewish ethics and exploring the seven conditions that make it permissible to speak negatively about someone—but only for a constructive reason (to'elet). The intention is to clarify when it is allowed to share information that would otherwise be considered lashon hara, ensuring the speech is used to prevent harm and promote positive outcomes. Definition: Lashon hara refers to speaking negatively about another person, even if the information is true. In Jewish ethics, this kind of speech is prohibited because of the potential harm it can cause to individuals and communities. Constructive Purpose: There are rare cases where it is permissible to share negative information, but only if it is done with the goal of preventing harm or achieving a positive outcome. - Send us your thoughts and questions at gilaross@gmail.com - Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! - Check out my book, Living Beautifully for more insights to bring joy, meaning and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - gilaross.com/book --- Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode helps you navigate the fascinating impact of our words

What's so wrong with saying telling other people the truth about themselves? Should we worry about triggering other people? We look at the impact of our words on other people and the 5 categories of forbidden speech in Jewish law. - Send us your thoughts and questions at gilaross@gmail.com - Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! - Check out my book, Living Beautifully for more insights to bring joy, meaning and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - gilaross.com/book --- Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode helps you navigate the fascinating impact of our words

In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of free will and explore how understanding it can significantly enhance our ability to empathize with ourselves and those around us. Join us as we unravel the complexities of free will, its impact on human behavior, and how this knowledge can transform our interactions and self-perception. Key Topics Covered: 1. Defining Free Will: - What is free will, and why is it such a crucial concept to understand? - How much control do we really have over our actions? 3. Empathy and Free Will: - How understanding free will can lead to greater self-compassion. - The role of free will in understanding others' actions and intentions. 5. Common Misconceptions: - Debunking myths about free will and responsibility. - Real-life examples and case studies illustrating the impact of understanding free will on empathy. - Send us your thoughts and questions at gilaross@gmail.com - Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! - Check out my book, Living Beautifully for more insights to bring joy, meaning and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - gilaross.com/book --- Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode helps you navigate the fascinating interplay between free will and empathy, enriching your interactions and self-understanding.

Does it matter what you think of other people? Who cares what's going on in your head? In this episode we look at 3 important reasons why it makes a huge difference what we think about other people. -- For more insights on how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot, check out my book Living Beautifully - gilaross.com/book

If you're like me you probably hate being judged... and yet, who wants to be taken for a ride? In this episode we look at: - what does Judaism expect from us when it comes to judging other people? - How we make sure we aren't niave? -- For more insights on how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot, check out my book Living Beautifully - gilaross.com/book

What does Judaism say about Heaven and hell? What is heaven and hell? What are they there for?

Shavuot celebrates us becoming the nation who received the Torah. Why do we read the book of Ruth? Ruth teaches us how to achieve radical transformation in our lives.

Let's talk about reincarnation. Why reincarnation would happen and what it can tell us about our life in this world. - For more insights on how to bring meaning joy and love into your life check out my book Living Beautifully. Currently 25% off with code avot25 at gilaross.com/book

In the next part of our soul's journey we look at the life review!!! Gulp. But wait before you get scared listen to this episode. It will give you a fresh and empowering view of life!! -- For more insights on how to bring meaning joy and love into your life check out my book Living Beautifully. Currently 25% off with code avot25 at gilaross.com/book

Let's take a look at what happens after death, in the second episode of our soul's journey. Any questions reach out to gilaross@gmail.com Use AVOT25 to save 25% at gilaross.com/book

In this new series we're going to learn about our soul's journey! Why do we need a soul and why does the soul need to be in this world? -- Use code AVOT25 to save 25% on my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and life into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot at gilaross.com/book

A fascinating look at the mitzvot of the Pascal Lamb and how it teaches us about the structure of the Jewish people, building community and giving from an abundance mindset. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

I was talking to a friend the other day about when life just feels hard and progress is slow, minimal or seemingly non-existent... interestingly enough there are deep roots for why it has to be this way -- and rhe first time we see this is in the strange way the pesach story happened. Listen for this important idea that has the potential to change how you view life's ups and downs. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

How do we have the courage to show up as our authentic selves? The surprising answer comes from developing true yirat shamayim - becoming G-d-fearing. Invest in yourself and listen to this episode!! -- Check out the Strength in Dark Times Summit - April 2-9! Join at gilaross.com/strength -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

Let's talk about the thing we don't want to talk about fear of G-d... Should we fear G-d? If G-d loves us and we are supposed to love G-d, why should we fear G-d and what does it even mean to fear G-d? If you have any questions or to sponsor an episode email Gilaross@gmail.com. For more insights check our my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on timeless Jewish wisdom. Www.gilaross.com/book or https://amzn.to/3wIKXUA ---

Bonus episode: the last episode on loving G-d sparked some great questions, so here's a bonus episode. If you have any questions email Gilaross@gmail.com. For more insights check our my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on timeless Jewish wisdom. Www.gilaross.com/book or https://amzn.to/3wIKXUA

Loving God, Loving Life... these aren't easy topics to discuss and that's exactly what we do in this episode. In this episode of the living mindfully series we're moving from internal mindsets to relationships!! We look at our emotions, can we and if so how do we influence them? -The tricky subject of love. What is it? - and then Loving God. Is it possible? And can we love God through tough times? For more insights check our my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on timeless Jewish wisdom. Www.gilaross.com/book or https://amzn.to/3wIKXUA

Ever feel like life pulls you in a million different directions? In this episode we look at why this happens and how to develop peace of mind when it happens. A must listen! For more life changing ideas, check out my new book Living Beautifully- How to bring meaning joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot- https://amzn.to/47HsRyN To get in touch with Gila email gilaross@gmail.com