The Wildescast

Rabbi Wildes sits down with Shabbos Kestenbaum to talk about Jewish identity, leadership, and the growing hostility toward Israel and the Jewish people — from elite universities to global politics. They discuss Shabbos' lawsuit against Harvard, media narratives on Iran, and the importance of Jewish education rooted in values, not just victimhood. A timely and honest conversation about unity, resistance, and hope for the Jewish future.

Judaism doesn't dismiss beauty—but it doesn't worship it either. This episode begins with our human hunger for beauty, journeys through the tension between Greek and Jewish ideals, and arrives at a distinctly Jewish idea of beauty: one that's rooted in holiness, shaped by restraint, and never far from the divine. We explore beauty's power, its purpose, and its place on the path toward the divine.

Last night at MJE's Yom HaShoah event, we had the honor of hearing from Dr. Aliza Erber, a Holocaust survivor, medical doctor, and chaplain. As a hidden child during the war, Dr. Erber lost both of her parents in concentration camps. Her story was raw, powerful, and deeply moving. Over 100 people gathered to hear her speak and every single one left impacted. What made the evening even more meaningful was her honesty. She didn't sugarcoat the trauma, and in doing so, gave everyone present a deeper appreciation of the strength, courage, and resilience of our people. May her words continue to echo, and may we never forget.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Mark Wildes is joined by Dr. Norm Weisman, the voice behind the acclaimed podcast Unpacking Israeli History. Together, they dive deep into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, explore the historical roots of Gaza, and ask the difficult questions: Is the two-state solution still viable? How should Israel be taught to the next generation—both Jewish and non-Jewish? What role does bias, history, and education play in shaping our understanding of Zionism? What are the biggest misconceptions about Hamas and Palestinian leadership? Dr. Weisman shares personal insights from decades of Israel education and breaks down complex issues with clarity and honesty, offering a nuanced look at one of the most polarizing topics of our time.

In this powerful episode of The Wilds Cast, we sit down with Natan Sharansky, a Soviet dissident, human rights activist, and former Israeli politician. Sharansky shares his harrowing experiences as a political prisoner in the Soviet Gulag, where he endured nine years of imprisonment, and his fight for Jewish freedom during the Cold War. We dive into: ✅ His extraordinary journey from Soviet oppression to Israeli leadership ✅ The refusenik movement and the struggle of Jews in the USSR ✅ How he survived years of solitary confinement with resilience and faith ✅ His political career in Israel, standing against disengagement from Gaza ✅ Modern antisemitism, the challenges faced by Jewish students, and his message to young Jews today ✅ His thoughts on Trump's peace plan, Israel's future, and the fight against Hamas Sharansky's story of courage, conviction, and unwavering identity is a must-listen for anyone passionate about freedom, Jewish history, and human rights.

What does it take to turn unimaginable tragedy into a source of strength and inspiration?

In this episode, rapper and activist Kosha Dillz takes us on a journey through his music, identity, and resilience. From performing on college campuses and tackling misconceptions about Israel to crafting lyrics that resonate and spark dialogue, Kosha shares the highs and challenges of his unique path. He opens up about overcoming addiction, the influence of Jewish values like tzedakah, and the strength that carried him through tough times. We also dive into his creative process, his experiences performing for IDF soldiers, and the reactions to his Chanukah songs and recent tracks inspired by pivotal events. Tune in for a powerful conversation that bridges hip-hop, faith, and activism.0:00 Introduction0:58 Welcome Kosha Dillz2:09 Performing on College Campuses4:36 Does doing this feel dangerous?6:30 Rap That Resonates8:20 Misconceptions About Israel13:35 The social scene of anti-Israel protests15:59 Songs since 10/722:02 Chanukah Song and Reactions on Campus23:28 What kind of schools book you?26:29 How do you work on your rap?29:13 Time on Wild 'n Out31:49 How has your jewish identity influenced your music?33:51 Tzedakah37:27 Overcoming addiction39:50 What kept you strong during tough times?43:47 Performing for IDF Soldiers48:14 Chanukah Concert and Songs49:38 Outro

Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein, a longtime friend of MJE and a true testament to perseverance and vision. Born blind, Justice Bernstein has defied expectations, becoming a trailblazer in law, an advocate for peace, and a marathon runner who challenges limits in every aspect of life.In this episode, we delve into his remarkable journey, including his role in advancing the Abraham Accords and promoting peace in the Middle East. Justice Bernstein shares profound insights on the beauty of his disability, his unwavering faith in God, and how it has shaped his perspective on justice, resilience, and advocacy.0:00 Introduction2:43 Serving as a Judge in MI4:00 Resilience10:15 Resilience15:15 Identifying Purpose Through Judaism16:02 Wrongful Convictions20:34 Flint Water Case23:26 Talmudic Perspective on Wrongful Convictions24:18 Has DNA Been Helpful in Court?28:47 Overcoming Adversity with One's Mission35:26 Disability Advocacy in the Middle East50:04 Importance if the Abraham Accords52:18 Rabbi Nebenzahl59:07 Everybody is Touched by Disability1:00:32 Perception of Disabilities in the Arab World1:04:25 Collaboration with a Sheikh1:07:21 Peace with Saudi Arabia1:08:41 Opening MI Back Up During Covid1:11:15 Long Term Consequences of Covid Lockdown1:13:56 Bringing People Together1:16:23 Conclusion

0:00 Introduction1:32 Academic Pursuits & Religious Values14:48 Misunderstandings of Observance21:20 Judaism in Politics31:04 The Limits of Orthodox Theology44:54 Challenges Facing Jewish Identity53:44 How to Handle Israel Condemnation1:03:28 Student Interest in Judaism1:09:57 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction1:50 Notions of Peace6:31 This Semester at Columbia11:39 Continuing to Teach at Columbia14:36 Sending Kids to Antisemitic Institutions22:21 Choosing to Fight Back28:29 Fight for Jewish Civil Rights34:17 Israeli vs. Diaspora Jews43:10 Preserving Jewish Identity55:59 Why is Judaism worth defending?59:21 Political Labels1:00 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction2:04 Welcome7:17 Camp HASC17:14 American Jews Giving to Israel21:39 Negativity in the Media26:13 Thinking Differently Than Others30:33 Teshuvah39:49 How Do We Find Joy?43:33 Preparing for the High Holidays51:29 Jewish Self-Identity1:00:00 Wrapping Up

0:00 Introduction3:07 Is War With Hezbollah Inevitable?11:25 American Involvement in the War13:02 Update on the Hostages16:17 Post War Gaza29:40 Presidential Elections44:04 What Can Americans Do?51:32 Wrapping Up

0:00 - Welcome8:58 - Western Indulgence of the Palestinian Dream15:45 - Oslo Accords & 2 State Solution26:35 - Trump Administration32:31 - Abraham Accords45:39 - University Protests & Encampments58:01 - How to Stay Informed

00:00 Introduction1:28 Welcome2:24 War With Iran6:23 Elimination Hamas7:56 United States Pushback11:45 Voting in the US17:26 Relations in the Middle East22:55 Reminding our Enemies26:02 Justifying October 728:15 Fear in American Jews30:49 Giving Hope34:57 Youth in America37:07 Gaza Casualties Misconception38:20 Challenges Faced by the IDF38:51 Learning History40:59 Wrapping UpWebsite: jewishexperience.orgFacebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

0:00 Introduction2:18 Exodus Story5:46 Impact of Progressivism10:42 Lack of Jewish History Education in the US16:30 Political Divide For Jews in America22:47 Tikkun Olam24:58 Inspiration & Motivation27:43 Saving the Diaspora31:22 Judaism & Medicine34:06 Exposure & Media Platform37:24 Physical Violence & Self Defense43:26 First Generation Perspective46:40 Desire For Acceptance of Jews48:43 Treating a Terrorist50:00 Wrapping Up

In this insightful conversation, Rabbi Wildes and Hillel Fuld dissect key points shaping Israel's trajectory, shedding light on the geopolitical landscape and societal dynamics. They navigate through the intersections of technology, innovation, and advocacy, offering profound insights into how these forces have influenced Israel's narrative and global standing since October 7th.0:00 - Intro1:36 - Welcome2:22 - October 75:57 - Advocating for Israel6:22 - Truths vs. Lies on Social Media9:48 - Genocide Allegations11:33 - Hezbollah Attacks13:13 - Who's Going to Replace Hamas?18:33 - Global Antisemitism25:36 - Living in Israel36:58 - Opposing Mentalities40:47 - Tech in Israel Since October 749:25 - Support for Israel51:08 - Miracles for Israel54:10 - Wrapping UpWebsite: jewishexperience.orgFacebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

Held at MJE on February 14th, Rabbi Mark Wildes taught a class on the Dos & Don't of Dating. This discussion dives into Jewish teachings that offer valuable insights for everyone, regardless of background. Discover practical tips for navigating relationships and finding love in today's world.

My remarks from the funeral of my beloved father. To see the whole ceremony click here: https://www.legacycelebrated.com/leon-wildes/ May we only know Simchas

On January 3rd, Rabbi Mark Wildes taught an insightful class titled "The Blame Game: Taking Responsibility For Our Lives," listeners are encouraged to shift their perspective on life's challenges. Rabbi Wildes delves into the concept of not externalizing failures and struggles but instead taking ownership and responsibility for one's life.

In this compelling episode of the Wildescast, Rabbi Mark Wildes engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Yahya Mahamid, an extraordinary guest who defies expectations as an Arab Muslim IDF soldier. Raised in an anti-zionist Arab community in Israel, Yahya shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and the transformative experiences that led him to embrace a passionate commitment to Zionism and the State of Israel. Through candid dialogue, they explore the complexities of identity, coexistence, and what things have been like since the war against Hamas began. Join Rabbi Mark Wildes and Yahya Mahamid as they delve into a narrative that challenges preconceptions and fosters understanding

In this gripping and emotionally charged episode, Rabbi Mark Wildes sits down with a truly extraordinary guest, Maya Parizer. Join us as Maya bravely shares her harrowing experience at the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7th. On that fateful day, as the festival was underway, Hamas unleashed an unthinkable act of violence, resulting in the tragic loss of over 360 innocent lives. The festival was part of a wider Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 that claimed approximately 1,400 lives Maya, along with her fiancé Ron, found themselves amidst the chaos and horror, narrowly escaping the massacre. In this interview, she recounts the heart-wrenching moments, reflecting on the resilience that allowed her to survive and share her story today. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:37 - Maya's Story 00:12:03 - Escaping the Nova Festival 00:17:48 - October 7th 2023 00:25:23 - The Kibbutz 00:31:15 - The Response From The Public 00:37:19 - Why Do People Deny The Truth? 00:40:19 - The Atrocities 00:42:08 - Israel Getting Scapegoated 00:43:53 - How Do We Achieve Peace? 00:46:41 - Living Your Best Life After Surviving a Tragedy 00:49:22 - Wrapping Up

Israel's Journey of Hope & Resilience | Rabbi Efrem Goldberg | Ruth Wildes Lecture | Chanukah 2023

Welcome back to the Wildescast, Rabbi Wildes and his student, Daniel Wallach, passionately discuss the resilience and strength of being a Jew in America post the October 7th attack on Israel. This powerful episode, the third in their "Rabbi and the Student" series, sheds light on the challenges faced by the Jewish community while emphasizing their unwavering commitment to Israel. The podcast explores the complexities of Jewish identity, offering a deep discussion on the evolving narrative in the aftermath of global events. Join them for an emotionally charged exploration of the spiritual battle we are all going through in this moment. Tune in for an impactful, multifaceted journey within the modern American landscape. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:42 - 10/7 00:13:41 - How Should We Be Feeling? 00:19:28 - How We Act During This Tie of Mourning 00:27:28 - Feelings of Rage 00:31:45 - Combatting Antisemitism 00:39:49 - What is it Like to be a Rabbi Right Now? 00:42:33 - Having Compassion For All 00:48:48 - What is Next for The Jewish People 00:59:10 - Wrapping Up Website: jewishexperience.org Facebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/ Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

Rabbi Wildes leads a dynamic live panel at MJE, delving into the effective strategies for addressing antisemitism on college campuses. Joining the discussion are distinguished panelists, including Professor Shai Davidai from Columbia Business School, Adela Cojab, a passionate Jewish activist and graduate of NYU/Cardozo, Talia Lerner representing the Israel On Campus Coalition, and Gideon Askowitz, a dedicated student at Hunter College.

Welcome to the Wildescast. This episode is from the finale of Rabbi Mark Wildes's 3 part class series on Israel. In this class Rabbi Wildes discusses all of the differing views on Zionism and answers all the questions you have on this incredibly complex topic! This is not an episode that you will want to want to miss! Take a listen!

Welcome to the Wildescast! On this episode we delve into Rena Quint's journey through the horrors of the Holocaust is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. She will recount her experiences, the challenges she faced, and the indomitable human spirit that carried her through those tumultuous times. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of hope and determination. But this episode is not just about the past; it's also about the present. Rena Quint has not only survived but thrived, and she now resides in Israel. She'll provide unique insights into what it's like to be a Holocaust survivor living in Israel. We will be talking about Rena's perspective on life in Israel today, in the face of the cWar against Hamas, this episode is both eye-opening and thought-provoking. Take a listen!

On October 25th as part of the ISRAEL: The History. The Philosophy. The Conflict. Series Rabbi Wildes shares four key talking points essential for advocating for Israel and countering misinformation. In this talk Rabbi Wildes presents the historical and political information important for all of us to know and to engage in informed discussions. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or a newcomer to the topic, this class equips you with valuable knowledge to articulate Israel's unique story with confidence.

As we await the next steps in Israel's war against Hamas, Rabbi Wildes is joined by activist, filmmaker, and IDF reservist Rudy Rochman from an undisclosed location to discuss whether this war is going to end differently than past wars with the final destruction of Hamas, whether the Palestinian civilians are truly innocent, how Diaspora Jews can fight back against Hamas supporters on college campuses, and what we as Jews can do to finally alleviate the world of antisemitism. 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:30 - Is This Time Different? 00:06:10 - Are the Palestinian People Innocent? 00:09:40 - Life as an IDF Reservist 00:11:53 - Empowering Jews in the Diaspora 00:19:29 - Hiding Your Jewish Identity to Stay Safe 00:23:24 - The Root Cause of Antisemitism

On Wednesday October 11th, Rabbi Wildes hosted a class at MJe entitled "Israel... The Real Story | From 1948 To Today." This event was not just an educational experience, but a powerful tribute to our brothers and sisters in Israel, who are currently enduring the perils of war and conflict. Rabbi Wildes' passionate lecture delved into the resilient history of Israel, from its triumphant rebirth in 1948 to its unyielding spirit in the face of contemporary challenges. The class emphasized the importance of standing with our Israeli brethren during these turbulent times. Throughout the session, Rabbi Wildes painted a vivid picture of Israel's journey, offering a resounding call to action for unwavering solidarity during this time.

Today Rabbi Wildes speaks about the story of Guy Madar. Each day during this time where our brothers and sisters in Israel are defending the Jewish people. Rabbi Wildes will be giving daily talks and words of Torah in his Whatsapp group. Feel free to join! Am Yisrael Chai! Join Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LM0bsDb4sV3FmESMyauFaw

Join Rabbi Wildes "Standing WIth Israel" Whatsapp group for daily words of Torah during this devastating time for our brothers and sisters in Israel. Join: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EuQY2688WQS6P4412gQI1J

MJE Stands With Israel: You can help make a difference by donating to Magen David Adom at https://afmda.org/donate/ Or United Hatzalah at https://israelrescue.org/campaign/israel-under-attack/ Our Father in Heaven, Rock and Redeemer of Israel, bless the State of Israel, the first manifestation of the approach of our redemption. Shield it with Your lovingkindness, envelop it in Your peace, and bestow Your light and truth upon its leaders, ministers, and advisors, and grace them with Your good counsel. Strengthen the hands of those who defend our holy land, grant them deliverance, and adorn them in a mantle of victory. Ordain peace in the land and grant its inhabitants eternal happiness. Lead them, swiftly and upright, to Your city Zion and to Jerusalem, the abode of Your Name, as is written in the Torah of Your servant Moses: “Even if your outcasts are at the ends of the world, from there the Lord your God will gather you, from there He will fetch you. And the Lord your God will bring you to the land that your fathers possessed, and you shall possess it; and He will make you more prosperous and more numerous than your fathers.” Draw our hearts together to revere and venerate Your name and to observe all the precepts of Your Torah, and send us quickly the Messiah son of David, agent of Your vindication, to redeem those who await Your deliverance. Manifest yourself in the splendor of Your boldness before the eyes of all inhabitants of Your world, and may everyone endowed with a soul affirm that the Lord, God of Israel, is king and his dominion is absolute. Amen

Being there for our brothers and sisters in Israel. Please tune in to hear what you can do.

Rabbi Wildes 2023 Sukkot Workshop: Everything you need to know to have a meaningful and great Sukkot! Chag Sameach!

In this thought-provoking podcast episode with Rabbi Wildes, we dive deep into the complexities of Israel's ongoing conflicts, featuring the esteemed Dr. Daniel Gordis as our guest. Dr. Gordis provides a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted issues plaguing Israel, from the judicial reform protests shaking the nation to the intricacies of the two-state solution. We explore the delicate balance between security and peace in the region and examine the impact of these political struggles on everyday life for Israelis. Moreover, Dr. Gordis sheds light on the evolving landscape of Judaism in the modern world and its effects on the Jewish people, offering valuable insights into the diverse ways in which Jewish identity is shaped and expressed today. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that navigates the challenging terrain of Israel's past, present, and future. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Welcome 00:03:14 - The Miracle of Israel 00:09:51 - Protests in Israel 00:19:33 - Two State Solution 00:21:31 - Division Between Us 00:33:19 - BLM & Zionism 00:34:17 - The Conservative Movement Today 00:38:48 - Why are People Not Going To Shul? 00:45:05 - Changes In Today's Judaism 00:50:31 - The Power Of The Holy Land 00:54:54 - Wrapping Up Subscribe to the Wildescast: https://link.chtbl.com/Wildes Website: jewishexperience.org Facebook: facebook.com/ManhattanJewishExperience/ Instagram: instagram.com/M_J_experience/

Take a listen to our 2023 Yom Kippur Workshop. We delve in to all of the things YOU can do this Yom Kippur to make it your best yet! This is the last class in our 2023 High Holiday's Crash Course Series, so you do not want to miss it!

Take a listen to Rabbi Mark Wildes Class on Understanding The Prayers of The High Holidays. People come to synagogue and say prayers but don't know who wrote them or what them mean, we tackle them in this class! Understanding the key prayers of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services is so important, and it is important to realize that we can gain an understanding that will give us a deeper understanding of the high holidays! Enjoy!

Join Rabbi Mark Wildes, deeply rooted in Torah values, and Erin Davis, the renowned "Wingwoman" of the modern dating scene, and a live studio audience in a thought-provoking conversation on the interaction of modern dating/marriage realities and how they intersect (or don't) with Torah values. They delve into diverse topics, exploring the efficacy of dating apps (2:20) first date tips (5:40) and navigating political differences. (11:45) The discussion progresses to touch on intimacy before marriage (16:30), the idea of changing your partner (20:00), and avoiding wasting time in a hopeless relationship (25:45). Discover the traits to look for in a partner (35:40) and the question of whether the virtues of classic femininity have been lost in the progression of women's rights (43:40). Learn communication tips (51:25) and finish with a live Q and A (53:40) where Rabbi Wildes and Erin candidly answer questions on topics ranging from the option of freezing eggs to dating multiple people. Tune in for a compelling dialogue that bridges traditional values and contemporary dating challenges. Subscribe to the Wildescast - https://link.chtbl.com/wildes Follow Rabbi Wildes on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rabbiwildes Follow Erin Davis on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erin_wingwoman/?hl=en Visit Jewishexperience.org for info on upcoming live events like this one.

Aleeza Ben-Shalom of Netflix's "Jewish Matchmaking" joins Rabbi Wildes to discuss the positives and negatives of her experience making the show including Rabbi Wildes' issues with the production and casting choices, whether men and women can really be "just friends", the tricky balance of being too picky vs. settling for someone, the Jewish view of soulmates, how to broach the topic of avoiding physical touch before marriage, and more. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:05:37 - Matchmking Style 00:12:47 - "Just Friends" 00:18:25 - Being Too Picky 00:24:04 - Rabbi WIldes' Criticism of Jewish Matchmaking 00:34:26 -Common Dating Obstacles 00:41:04 - Soulmates 00:44:56 - Roommates Before Marriage 00:51:27 - Physical Touch Subscribe to the Wildescast: https://link.chtbl.com/Wildes

Full Audio of Rabbi WIldes' stirring Tisha B'Av Address in front of a packed audience of young Jewish professionals. Easy and meaningful fast to all participating and may we merit to see the rebuilding of the Temple speedily in our days.

Rabbi Wildes' full class delivered to his students on the contemporary meaning behind the tragic day of Tisha B'Av. Wishing a meaningful fast to all those participating.

Rabbi Wildes is joined by Emmy award winning TV writer David Sacks to discuss his path from Hollywood (The Simpsons, Third Rock From The Sun) to spiritual leader in the Los Angeles community. In the first half of the podcast David discusses the challenges he faced as an Orthodox Jew in the secular world of Hollywood which leads into the second half where David and Rabbi Wildes discuss the deepest teachings in Judaism which touch on the nature of the soul, why the world we live in seems so broken, the difference between Judaism and Buddhism's definition of transcendence and so much more. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introducing David Sacks 00:02:35 - Becoming A TV Writer 00:03:20 - David's Spiritual Journey 00:05:23 - Writing for The Simpsons 00:13:35 - Challenges as an Orthodox Jew 00:19:39 - The Immortality of the Soul 00:22:10 - The True Definition of Success 00:33:43 - Judaism vs. Buddhism 00:36:35 - Believing in Something Deeper 00:41:55 - The Illusion of Time 00:47:18 - God Plays Hide & Seek 00:52:05 - Why the World is Messed Up 00:59:37 - Fix Yourself, Fix the World

Rabbi Wildes is joined by Rabbi Dr. Jason Weiner, Senior Rabbi and Executive Director of the Spiritual Care Department at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, where he is responsible for the chaplaincy team and all aspects of spiritual care throughout the health system. Being an expert in Jewish medical ethics, pastoral care, and health and wellness, Rabbi Weiner shares his thoughts on the future of medicine including the morality of the revolutionary technology of CRISPR Gene Editing which allows doctors to edit genetic DNA to cure all kinds of diseases such as sickle cell anemia but also comes with potential risks if the technology finds its way into the wrong hands. Rabbi Weiner also discusses the Torah's view on panaceas, (a solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases), his experience donating a kidney, the government's role in regulating medicine, and the spiritual rewards that come with the arduous task of being exposed to death and suffering on a daily basis. Buy Rabbi Weiner's new book "Care and Covenant: A Jewish Bioethic of Responsibility" here: https://tinyurl.com/weinerbook Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introducing Rabbi Dr. Jason Weiner 00:02:35 - Path to Becoming A Bioethicist 00:04:23 - Being Around Death & Suffering 00:07:35 - Balancing Being A Rabbi and a Bioethicist 00:10:00 - Torah Insights on Bioethics 00:15:30 - Experience Donating His Kidney 00:22:15 - Revolutionary CRISPR Gene Editing 00:30:10 - Torah View of Panaceas 00:33:30 - Biggest Risk to Humanity 00:36:12 - Government Regulation of Medicine 00:39:40 - Wisdom vs. Technology

Rabbi Wildes is joined by Dan Grunfeld - former professional basketball player and author of the fantastic book, "By the Grace of the Game: The Holocaust, a Basketball Legacy, and an Unprecedented American Dream" to discuss his family legacy of Jewish basketball players including his father Ernie who played 9 seasons in the NBA and is the only player ever to be a son of Holocaust survivors. Dan also shares how he feels the NBA reacted to the Kyrie Irving antisemitism controversy, the current state of antisemitic attacks on Israel on college campuses, and more. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:55 - Grunfeld Family History 00:20:40 - Antisemitism on College Campus 00:27:20 - Kyrie Irving and the NBA 00:37:58 - Making Change Buy Dan's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Game-Holocaust-Basketball-Unprecedented/dp/1629379220 Subscribe to the Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/Wildes

Daniel Wallach seeks guidance from Rabbi Wildes as he grapples with the challenges of his spiritual journey. Having recently returned from the spiritual heights of Israel, Daniel opens up about his struggle to maintain inspiration in a world dominated by materialism and monotony. In their conversation, Daniel seeks Rabbi Wildes' counsel on various pressing matters, such as staying motivated in times when God's presence feels less apparent, discovering the Torah teachings that resonate with his soul, finding a Jewish community that aligns with his values, and much more. Together, they delve into these profound questions, seeking clarity and guidance on the path ahead. An essential listen for fellow seekers on their spiritual journey. NOTE: Rabbi Wildes' audio is distorted for the first minute of the episode but clears up immediately afterward. This conversation was recorded on 2/27/2023 Timestamps: 1:20 - Staying Inspired Through the Monotony of Life 23:00 - Discovering the Torah that Speaks to You 31:00 Being A Jew in the Real World; Leaving the Bubble 39:00 - Finding Hashem in the Difficult Times 47:44 - A Poem From Rav Kook

In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Wildes is joined by Charlie Harary to delve into the power of Torah wisdom to help us unlock our best selves. Charlie shares his personal journey of discovering the Torah and how it has helped him initiate personal growth, find meaning, and discover his identity and purpose. We explore the spiritual and physical aspects of our selves and how they interact in our daily lives. Charlie shares insights on achieving lasting happiness by aligning our actions with our spiritual values and prioritizing our inner growth over external validation. We also discuss the rise of Artificial Intelligence and its potential impact on spirituality. Can AI genuinely threaten our spiritual growth and connection to a higher power? Or can it enhance our spiritual experience and connection? Tune in to this enlightening episode to gain a deeper understanding of how Torah wisdom can help unlock your best self and navigate the challenges of the modern world. Charles Harary is an American investor, strategic adviser, and professor who has gained fame as a motivational speaker, radio show host, and television personality. Follow Charlie: Become an Insider: http://Charlieharary.com/insiders Listen to Charlie's Podcast Unlocking Greatness: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/charlieharary Join Charlie's Whatsapp Chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/BUnbPiDNkg3CrmHQlnn6eJ Follow Charlie on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/charlieharary?fbclid=PAAaas4eDdjiVUL3dMUtFZUBzOm58QvzjuCdm_DQBrbsT4s2o0UIoTLNTn2-k Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 02:30 - Charlie's Journey 14:00 - Happiness 26:40 - Identity & Self-Image 39:20 - Finding Joy Through Spirituality 46:30 - Spirituality vs. Physicality 50:50 - Artificial Intelligence

Rabbi Wildes recently rejoined the Orthodox Conundrum Podcast with Scott Kahn to discuss the complicated relationship Diaspora Jewry has with the State of Israel. In Scott's own words: With the terrible and heartbreaking news that came out of Israel over the course of Pesach – a mother and two children murdered by terrorists, a car ramming in Tel Aviv with an Italian tourist dead and others injured, plus rockets launched at Israel from Lebanon and Gaza – some have noted a disconnect between the attitudes of Jews who live in Israel, and those who live in the diaspora. The two groups sometimes seem to possess different mindsets – that is, very different ways of thinking about events like these. In particular, the heaviness that was widely experienced by Israeli Jews may have sometimes been lacking among some Jews outside of Israel. Is this assumption accurate or misplaced? Furthermore, is Israel viewed, emotionally if not intellectually, as just another Jewish community like any other? Is the proximity and ease of getting to Israel and communicating with people in Israel a double-edged sword, taking away some of the mystery and sense of holiness that people otherwise would have? Moreover, what is the place of diaspora Jewry? Is their only role to pack up and move to Israel, or is there a need for Jewish communities to thrive outside of Israel? How can we better inculcate a sense of solidarity with Jews in Israel, and with what's happening in Israel? Is the emotional gap between Israelis and those outside of Israel destined to get larger or smaller? To discuss these and other questions, Scott (who lives in Ramat Beit Shemesh) spoke with Rabbi Mark Wildes (who lives in New York). Their conversation will give you food for thought, especially as they draw upon their own life experiences to discuss the relationship between diaspora Jews and Jews living in Israel. Please listen to and share this podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108). Thanks to all of our Patreon subscribers, who have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more – we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy the extras! Visit the JCH Patreon site at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Visit https://www.jchpodcasts.com/ to learn all about creating your own podcast. Music: “Happy Rock” by bensound.com

How can we make sure our kids stay Jewish and uphold the values we have worked so hard to instill in them? Hint: it's not just about talking the talk, but walking the walk. Rabbi Wildes delves into the text of the Torah, revealing the power of leading by example and how displaying your love for the Torah and its Mitzvot can make all the difference. Get ready to take action and inspire the next generation to stay true to their roots.

"Veahavta lereacha kamocha" - Loving your neighbor as yourself is considered the fundamental golden rule of Torah. But is it really possible to do such a thing? Rabbi Wildes provides a practical solution to fulfill this mitzvah based on the wisdom of our greatest Sages.

Rabbi Wildes celebrates Yom Haatzmaut (Israel's 75th birthday) by sitting down with the fascinating Rabbi Jeremy Gimpel who is a teacher, a farmer, and a pioneering entrepreneur. He is also a retired decorated IDF soldier, an author, a musician, and one of Israel's premiere Jewish media personalities. He is the founder of the Land of Israel Network, with millions of views and downloads from over 120 countries, broadcasting Torah and sharing the beauty of Israel with the world. Rabbi Gimpel, along with his wife Tehila and their six children, founded the Arugot Farm and Educational Center at the edge of a Jewish settlement in Judea and Samaria. It has become a global destination for people looking to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Judean Mountains and encounter a living example of Ahavat Eretz Yisrael and Torat Yisrael. They discuss how the building of his farm in Judea and Samaria and interacting with his Arab neighbors inform his view on how Israel and the Palestinians can achieve peace, the current instability in Israel regarding judicial reform, how he'd stop the cycle of brainwashing that the Palestinian leadership perpetuates on their youth, the Biden administration's policy towards Israel, Israel's role to play in bringing the final redemption, and more. Timestamps: 2:00 - Building A Farm in Judea & Samaria 10:30 - Achieving World Peace 15:49 - Can A Two-State Solution Work? 24:17 - Deprogramming Palestinian Hatred 33:30 - Judicial Reform Protests 46:20 - Birthright 48:48 - Israel = Beginning of Mashiach 50:15 - Connecting to Israel in Exile