Podcasts about Greater Houston

In this Prayer Podcast episode on Hodu (the first section of Pesukei Dezimra), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains its structure, purpose, and deeper meaning. Hodu consists of 50 verses (from Chronicles and Psalms), divided into three parts, recited either before or after Baruch She'amar (depending on Ashkenaz/Sephard custom) to remove spiritual barriers (klipot) from the morning offerings and elevate prayer.Key points:Hodu = Give thanks — The prayer begins with a charge to declare Hashem's name and make His miracles known among the nations (“Hodiu ba'amim alilosaiv”). It's an expression of love for Hashem: when you truly love Him, you want to share that love with the world.Practical themes — Publicize Hashem's acts (not keep Judaism secret); take pride in His name (“Hisalu b'shem kodsho”); rejoice in seeking Him (“yismach leiv mevakshei Hashem”); constantly seek His presence and strength (“dirshu Hashem v'uzo, bakshu panav tamid”); remember His wonders, covenant, and chosen status of Israel (“zichru la'olam briso”).Spiritual power — Hodu removes klipot (negative spiritual forces) that block prayer after mentioning offerings. It's sung before the Ark in the Temple (twice daily); today it replaces offerings and connects us to the Temple service.Connection to daily life — Start the day with gratitude and awe: see Hashem's wonders in nature (sunrise, waves, wind, hurricanes, volcanoes), personal blessings, and creation. Share Hashem's greatness—don't hide Jewish identity; attribute success to Him (“kiru bishmo”).Broader message — Hodu inspires sharing Hashem with humanity, just as Abraham did. It's the opening song of Pesukei Dezimra—sing praise, not just recite words.The rabbi emphasizes joyful, intentional prayer: Hodu is about declaring Hashem's sovereignty, remembering the covenant, and rejoicing in seeking Him—turning morning prayer into song and testimony._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on February 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 24, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukeiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #VersesOfPraise, #JewishPrayer, #Hodu, #GiveThanks, #Hashem, #Klipot ★ Support this podcast ★

On Monday's show: We discuss how the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to strike down many of President Trump's tariffs might affect Greater Houston.Also this hour: We learn about Blackball, an exhibit exploring baseball in Houston Freedmen's Town, from teams that barnstormed in sandlots, to players and teams in the Negro Leagues, to the eventual integration of Major League Baseball. And we learn about some of the notable Black baseball players from Houston's history from the president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.Then, from the rollout of school vouchers, to districts voting on prayer in school, to plans to close some HISD campuses, there is a lot going on these days in K-12 education. We bring together a panel of education reporters to discuss those and other subjects in the news.And we recap the Winter Olympics with Houston Chronicle sports editor Reid Laymance.Watch

In this Prayer Podcast episode on Hodu (the first section of Pesukei Dezimra), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains its structure, purpose, and deeper meaning. Hodu consists of 50 verses (from Chronicles and Psalms), divided into three parts, recited either before or after Baruch She'amar (depending on Ashkenaz/Sephard custom) to remove spiritual barriers (klipot) from the morning offerings and elevate prayer.Key points:Hodu = Give thanks — The prayer begins with a charge to declare Hashem's name and make His miracles known among the nations (“Hodiu ba'amim alilosaiv”). It's an expression of love for Hashem: when you truly love Him, you want to share that love with the world.Practical themes — Publicize Hashem's acts (not keep Judaism secret); take pride in His name (“Hisalu b'shem kodsho”); rejoice in seeking Him (“yismach leiv mevakshei Hashem”); constantly seek His presence and strength (“dirshu Hashem v'uzo, bakshu panav tamid”); remember His wonders, covenant, and chosen status of Israel (“zichru la'olam briso”).Spiritual power — Hodu removes klipot (negative spiritual forces) that block prayer after mentioning offerings. It's sung before the Ark in the Temple (twice daily); today it replaces offerings and connects us to the Temple service.Connection to daily life — Start the day with gratitude and awe: see Hashem's wonders in nature (sunrise, waves, wind, hurricanes, volcanoes), personal blessings, and creation. Share Hashem's greatness—don't hide Jewish identity; attribute success to Him (“kiru bishmo”).Broader message — Hodu inspires sharing Hashem with humanity, just as Abraham did. It's the opening song of Pesukei Dezimra—sing praise, not just recite words.The rabbi emphasizes joyful, intentional prayer: Hodu is about declaring Hashem's sovereignty, remembering the covenant, and rejoicing in seeking Him—turning morning prayer into song and testimony._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on February 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 24, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukeiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #VersesOfPraise, #JewishPrayer, #Hodu, #GiveThanks, #Hashem, #Klipot ★ Support this podcast ★

What if some of your hometown's oldest, most haunted spaces were hidden in plain sight? What if they were so hidden, you quite literally walk and/or drive by them every day? The hometown in question is the museum's hometown of Houston, Texas. And today's guest, Texana Tours founder Richard Cook, joins the podcast to talk about places where you'd no doubt experience things from another dimension. Genevieve and Richard discuss the Jeff Davis Hotel (now an apartment complex) and the Donnellan Family Crypt, just two of many examples of paranormal places around the Greater Houston area. They tie it back to the museum's larger mission to educate and inform the public about the final rite of passage that we will all experience. Death. To learn more about Texana Tours, contact Richard HERE. To plan your visit to The National Museum of Funeral History, go HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

calvaryhouston.com

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: the laws of proper conduct during a meal (etiquette, dignity, sensitivity, and practical halachot after hamotzi/netilat yadayim).Key halachot:Leaving the table — Don't leave during/after meal before Birkas Hamazon (even briefly); if you do, new hamotzi needed unless

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: the laws of proper conduct during a meal (etiquette, dignity, sensitivity, and practical halachot after hamotzi/netilat yadayim).Key halachot:Leaving the table — Don't leave during/after meal before Birkas Hamazon (even briefly); if you do, new hamotzi needed unless

Since it's Valentines season Eric said "you know, we should do another Date Night Draft" and since it's Eric's show we said... well nothing you know because it's his show.The Ultimate Houston Date Night Draft is back for a 3rd iteration! This year, Eric is joined by Chelsea Thomas, Monica Danna, Brianna McGriff, Dominick Lee, and Chris Shepherd to draft the perfect date night lineup. This year's categories are: First Date, Coffee Date, Place Your Friends Won't See You Date, Happy Hour Date, Breakup Date, and a Wild Card spot which is any place they'd like to go for a date or somewhere that would be fun for a date.  The winner will be announced on the next episode of the podcast as selected by special judges. So stayed tuned to your podcast feeds to find out the eventual winner. The Draft RulesRule 1: All selections must be located in with in the Greater Houston area.Rule 2: Once a restaurant has been selected for a certain category, no other drafter may select it for the same category. For example, only one drafter can select 13 Celsius for a first date but someone else could select 13 Celsius for a Happy Hour date.Rule 3: Drafters cannot pick the same bar/restaurant/business twice. All 6 selections must be from different places.Rule 4: Snake draft format. The draft order will go one through six in round 1 then go backwards six through one in round 2.Rule 5: Categories may be selected in any order.Got a question for Eric? Email him at eric@culturemap.com. Follow Eric on Instagram @ericsandler and check out some of Eric's latest articles online at Culturemap.com: Exclusive: Houston Restaurateur Brings Two New Italian Spots to Montrose Parking Problems Shutter Houston Restaurant After Less Than a Year Michelin-Recognized Houston Sushi Chef Fires Up 4 Seat Japanese Skewer Spot Veteran French Chef Blows into Bellaire with a New Neighborhood Bistro New Restaurant Shakes Up Houston with Oaxacan and Tex-Mex Classics

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: proper conduct during a meal (after hamotzi and netilat yadayim).Key halachot:Feed animals first — One who owns animals/fowl must feed them before eating (Torah obligation); humans come first for drinking.No gluttony — Don't eat/drink while standing; eat/drink in moderation; table must be clean/covered; don't hold large pieces (>kezayis/egg-size) in hand while eating; don't gulp wine (2–3 sips ideal unless cup is tiny/large).No interrupting speech — Don't converse (even Torah) while eating (choking danger); permissible to speak Torah after eating bread but before Birkas Hamazon.Bread etiquette — Don't bite bread and return it to table/plate (repulsive); don't throw bread; don't use bread to support dishes; don't wash hands with wine/other beverages (degrades them).Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; preserves covenant; repels evil); dip challah in salt.Food in hand — Don't eat large quantities directly from hand; tear with other hand (degrades bread).Cleanliness & dignity — Don't sit on sacks of fruit (degrades them); pick up fallen food; don't feed fit-for-human food to animals (degrades it); if used medicinally, permissible even if repulsive.Aroma & craving — If food/drink has savory aroma and you crave it, give server a bite immediately (saliva produced is harmful if unmet).Serving & sharing — Don't give food someone else touched in covered areas; don't drink from cup and pass it (repulsive); prominent person eats first.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: food is a gift from Hashem—eat with dignity, gratitude, and self-control (e.g., personal story of son resisting babka temptation before Kiddush). Meals are for bonding, not just sustenance—eat together, wait for others, show nechbadus (respect). The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #30._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: proper conduct during a meal (after hamotzi and netilat yadayim).Key halachot:Feed animals first — One who owns animals/fowl must feed them before eating (Torah obligation); humans come first for drinking.No gluttony — Don't eat/drink while standing; eat/drink in moderation; table must be clean/covered; don't hold large pieces (>kezayis/egg-size) in hand while eating; don't gulp wine (2–3 sips ideal unless cup is tiny/large).No interrupting speech — Don't converse (even Torah) while eating (choking danger); permissible to speak Torah after eating bread but before Birkas Hamazon.Bread etiquette — Don't bite bread and return it to table/plate (repulsive); don't throw bread; don't use bread to support dishes; don't wash hands with wine/other beverages (degrades them).Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; preserves covenant; repels evil); dip challah in salt.Food in hand — Don't eat large quantities directly from hand; tear with other hand (degrades bread).Cleanliness & dignity — Don't sit on sacks of fruit (degrades them); pick up fallen food; don't feed fit-for-human food to animals (degrades it); if used medicinally, permissible even if repulsive.Aroma & craving — If food/drink has savory aroma and you crave it, give server a bite immediately (saliva produced is harmful if unmet).Serving & sharing — Don't give food someone else touched in covered areas; don't drink from cup and pass it (repulsive); prominent person eats first.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: food is a gift from Hashem—eat with dignity, gratitude, and self-control (e.g., personal story of son resisting babka temptation before Kiddush). Meals are for bonding, not just sustenance—eat together, wait for others, show nechbadus (respect). The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #30._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

On Friday's show: The Texas Education Agency has warned school districts that facilitating student political walkouts could lead to a state takeover. This comes as the agency unveils a newly created enforcement role focusing on overseeing investigations into alleged misconduct by Texas teachers. We get the latest on this developing story.Also this hour: We discuss how digital maps are increasingly being used to reveal patterns across Greater Houston, from the famed Houston arrow, to the Whataburger location map being used as a substitute for power outage tracking during major storms, to an ICE tracker map being developed by students at Rice University.Then, we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.And we preview the latest in a series of concerts from The Apollo Chamber Players celebrating America's 250th birthday and the centennial of what became Black History Month.Watch

Hey Doc,In this episode, I'm sharing a major life update that, on the surface, looks like a hard pivot, but is actually a continuation of everything I've been building since I left corporate medicine.

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 40 (laws of netilat yadayim before bread) and transitions to Siman 41 (breaking bread & hamotzi blessing).Key Halachot covered:Invalid waters — Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Chatzitzah (interposition) — Hands must be free of barriers (remove rings, clean under long nails, remove substantial dirt/paint); incidental staining (e.g., ink) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter is. For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers), minor work-related staining is permitted unless it covers most of the hand. Dressings/band-aids are not chatzitzah if painful to remove (same for mikvah).Dipping foods — Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; only the seven liquids (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, medicinal blood, water) trigger this—fruit juices/liquors usually do not.Preserves & butters — Hardened coatings are not liquid (no washing); soft/moist ones require it.Hamotzi & breaking bread — Recite hamotzi on actual bread (five grains + water, bread-like consistency); pas haba b'kisnin (snacks like pretzels, cake, danishes) get mezonot. Cut from choicest/hardest part (respect for blessing); minimize delay between blessing and eating (no interruption > ~12–30 seconds). Hold bread with all 10 fingers (corresponding to 10 mitzvot in bread production); on Shabbos, lift both loaves when saying Hashem's name.Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; salt preserves covenant; repels evil forces); dip challah in salt.Order & customs — Head of household washes last to minimize delay; eat from blessed piece first; no feeding animals from blessed bread.The rabbi emphasizes spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering arrogance of "my power made this wealth"); hamotzi reminds us of Hashem's constant renewal of creation. Episode ends transitioning to Ask Away #29.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #29._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #83) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 40 (laws of netilat yadayim before bread) and transitions to Siman 41 (breaking bread & hamotzi blessing).Key Halachot covered:Invalid waters — Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Chatzitzah (interposition) — Hands must be free of barriers (remove rings, clean under long nails, remove substantial dirt/paint); incidental staining (e.g., ink) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter is. For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers), minor work-related staining is permitted unless it covers most of the hand. Dressings/band-aids are not chatzitzah if painful to remove (same for mikvah).Dipping foods — Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; only the seven liquids (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, medicinal blood, water) trigger this—fruit juices/liquors usually do not.Preserves & butters — Hardened coatings are not liquid (no washing); soft/moist ones require it.Hamotzi & breaking bread — Recite hamotzi on actual bread (five grains + water, bread-like consistency); pas haba b'kisnin (snacks like pretzels, cake, danishes) get mezonot. Cut from choicest/hardest part (respect for blessing); minimize delay between blessing and eating (no interruption > ~12–30 seconds). Hold bread with all 10 fingers (corresponding to 10 mitzvot in bread production); on Shabbos, lift both loaves when saying Hashem's name.Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; salt preserves covenant; repels evil forces); dip challah in salt.Order & customs — Head of household washes last to minimize delay; eat from blessed piece first; no feeding animals from blessed bread.The rabbi emphasizes spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering arrogance of "my power made this wealth"); hamotzi reminds us of Hashem's constant renewal of creation. Episode ends transitioning to Ask Away #29.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #29._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

On Friday's show: Houston Rep. Lizzie Fletcher joins us to discuss immigration enforcement in Minnesota and issues affecting Greater Houston and the nation.Also this hour: We explore how recent events surrounding immigration policy are influencing young Houstonians and their perceptions of law enforcement in particular.And we break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.Watch

In this Prayer Podcast episode (Part 2 of Baruch She'amar), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his deep dive into the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra. He explains the prayer's two parts: the introductory praises (10 praises corresponding to creation's 10 utterances and the 10 Commandments) and the actual blessing. Drawing from the Rokach and other commentaries, the rabbi reveals profound secrets:Baruch She'amar V'haya Ha'olam — Hashem spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin); everything was created in one utterance, then revealed gradually over time.Baruch Hu — The world exists to glorify Hashem's Name.Baruch Oseh Bereishis — Hashem renews creation every single day (present tense verbs emphasize ongoing miracles).Baruch Omer V'oseh — What Hashem decrees immediately happens.Baruch Gozer Umekayem — Decrees (even difficult ones) are fulfilled, yet Hashem sustains us through them.Baruch Merachem Al Ha'aretz / Al Ha'briyot — Hashem shows compassion on the earth and every creature.Baruch Meshaleim Sochar Tov Li're'av — Hashem rewards the righteous eternally (in the World to Come), while the wicked get their reward in this world.Baruch Chai La'ad V'kayam Lanetzach — Hashem was, is, and will be forever (YKVK = past, present, future).Baruch Podeh U'matzil — Hashem redeems and rescues from every challenge.Baruch Shemo — Blessed is His Name, despite being hidden.The rabbi connects this to the parsha (Va'era), where Hashem reveals Himself as the Redeemer ("Ani Hashem") and performs miracles to prove His sovereignty. He stresses living with awe: see daily miracles (body, nature, modern survivals in Israel) as ongoing creation and love from Hashem—never let them become routine._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 28, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #13Attributes, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Prayer Podcast episode (Part 2 of Baruch She'amar), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his deep dive into the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra. He explains the prayer's two parts: the introductory praises (10 praises corresponding to creation's 10 utterances and the 10 Commandments) and the actual blessing. Drawing from the Rokach and other commentaries, the rabbi reveals profound secrets:Baruch She'amar V'haya Ha'olam — Hashem spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin); everything was created in one utterance, then revealed gradually over time.Baruch Hu — The world exists to glorify Hashem's Name.Baruch Oseh Bereishis — Hashem renews creation every single day (present tense verbs emphasize ongoing miracles).Baruch Omer V'oseh — What Hashem decrees immediately happens.Baruch Gozer Umekayem — Decrees (even difficult ones) are fulfilled, yet Hashem sustains us through them.Baruch Merachem Al Ha'aretz / Al Ha'briyot — Hashem shows compassion on the earth and every creature.Baruch Meshaleim Sochar Tov Li're'av — Hashem rewards the righteous eternally (in the World to Come), while the wicked get their reward in this world.Baruch Chai La'ad V'kayam Lanetzach — Hashem was, is, and will be forever (YKVK = past, present, future).Baruch Podeh U'matzil — Hashem redeems and rescues from every challenge.Baruch Shemo — Blessed is His Name, despite being hidden.The rabbi connects this to the parsha (Va'era), where Hashem reveals Himself as the Redeemer ("Ani Hashem") and performs miracles to prove His sovereignty. He stresses living with awe: see daily miracles (body, nature, modern survivals in Israel) as ongoing creation and love from Hashem—never let them become routine._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 28, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #13Attributes, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

On Tuesday's show: Texas civil rights organizations have secured an emergency court order directing Harris County to operate two additional early voting days in the 18th Congressional District special election runoff following weather interruptions this week. We get details.Also this hour: The annual meeting of the American Meteorological Society is taking place this week in Houston. We discuss how the current political climate is affecting how meteorologists do their jobs these days and the ramifications for our region.Then, we consider some day trips to take across Greater Houston as a way of exploring new parts of the region and finding adventure and a mini escape.And on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we revisit the story of Holocaust survivor Ruth Steinfeld and how she found forgiveness and the courage to tell her story.Watch

In this Everyday Judaism episode (continuing Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe completes the laws of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing before bread/meals). Key halachot include:Invalid waters: Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Clean hands requirement: Hands must be free of interpositions (chatzitzah)—remove rings, clean under long nails, scrape off substantial dirt/paint; incidental coloring (e.g., ink stains) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter (paint, grease) is.For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers, scribes): Minor staining from their work is not a chatzitzah unless it covers most of the hand.Dressings/wounds: Band-aids or painful-to-remove coverings are not chatzitzah (same rule applies to mikvah immersion).Dipping foods: Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; seven liquids qualify (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, blood [medicinal only], water); fruit juices or liquors generally do not.Preserves & butters: Hardened sugar/honey coatings are not liquid (no washing needed); soft/moist ones are.Hand foods vs. utensil foods: Dip hand-eaten foods require washing; spoon/fork foods do not if no hand contact.Practical notes: Soap is not required; focus on water coverage and one continuous flow.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering "my power made this wealth") and prepares us for holiness. The episode transitions to Ask Away #28, inviting questions on intentional Judaism.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #28._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #83) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 26, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

On Monday's show: We get an update on the freezing temperatures from the National Weather Service and bring you the latest on how the freeze has affected Greater Houston.Also this hour: The nation continues to react to Saturday's fatal shooting by federal officers of 37-year-old intensive care nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. We consider the political implications for the nation and for the Houston area. And we welcome listener reactions and thoughts.Then, today is the 100th anniversary of the first public demonstration of live television. We mark that moment by discussing Houston's television history and landscape.And former Astro Carlos Beltran is headed to the Hall of Fame. Since he was also a major figure in the Astros' electronic sign-stealing scandal, does his election mean furor over that scandal is beginning to fade? And does it suggest Jose Altuve and other Astros stars will have an easier path to the Hall of Fame when the time comes as well?Watch

In this Everyday Judaism episode (continuing Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe completes the laws of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing before bread/meals). Key halachot include:Invalid waters: Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Clean hands requirement: Hands must be free of interpositions (chatzitzah)—remove rings, clean under long nails, scrape off substantial dirt/paint; incidental coloring (e.g., ink stains) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter (paint, grease) is.For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers, scribes): Minor staining from their work is not a chatzitzah unless it covers most of the hand.Dressings/wounds: Band-aids or painful-to-remove coverings are not chatzitzah (same rule applies to mikvah immersion).Dipping foods: Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; seven liquids qualify (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, blood [medicinal only], water); fruit juices or liquors generally do not.Preserves & butters: Hardened sugar/honey coatings are not liquid (no washing needed); soft/moist ones are.Hand foods vs. utensil foods: Dip hand-eaten foods require washing; spoon/fork foods do not if no hand contact.Practical notes: Soap is not required; focus on water coverage and one continuous flow.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering "my power made this wealth") and prepares us for holiness. The episode transitions to Ask Away #28, inviting questions on intentional Judaism.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #28._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #83) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 26, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

On Friday's show: Meteorologist Eric Berger of Space City Weather will fill us in on the very latest on this weekend's freezing weather. And we talk with reporters about how officials around Greater Houston and the state are preparing for the demands a weather event like this puts on the power grid and local infrastructure.Also this hour: We break down The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of the week.Watch

On Thursday's show: A freeze is headed to much of Texas this weekend and could bring freezing rain, sleet, or ice to parts of Greater Houston. We check the latest forecast with Houston Chronicle meteorologist Justin Ballard and discuss how to prepare.Also this hour: On this month's installment of our film segment, The Bigger Picture, we consider what the new movie Is This Thing On? has to say about separation and divorce and what Houstonians going through those challenges can glean from it.And, as  Artemis II prepares to launch in the coming weeks, signaling the next stage in America's return to the moon, we recall one quirky moment during the Apollo missions that involved a Houston barber, an astronaut, and a golf ball.Watch

In this special Everyday Judaism episode timed for the start of Chanukah, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the significance and halachot of Rosh Chodesh (the new month), which coincides with Hallel recitation beginning the next morning. Rosh Chodesh is an auspicious time for atonement—Erev Rosh Chodesh is treated by some as Yom Kippur Katan (minor Day of Atonement) with fasting and special supplications—mirroring the monthly sin-offering in Temple times.Key practices include eating a festive meal (even adding a unique dish on Shabbos-Rosh Chodesh), women customarily refraining from work (in merit of not donating jewelry for the Golden Calf), reciting Yaaleh V'Yavo in Amidah, partial ("Chatzi") Hallel standing (as testimony to Hashem's miracles), Torah reading with four aliyot, and full Kaddish Titkabbal. Hallel is ideally with a minyan, uninterrupted, and standing; interruptions from Pesukei D'Zimra are permitted for Chatzi Hallel on Rosh Chodesh.The episode culminates in detailed laws of Kiddush Levanah (sanctifying the new moon outdoors at night, ideally Motzei Shabbos in fine attire and joy, with a minyan)—a protective mitzvah recited only when the moon's light is visible and beneficial, from after three days post-molad until the midpoint of the lunar month. Priorities favor frequent mitzvot (e.g., Ma'ariv before Kiddush Levanah unless time is pressing), with flexibility for weather or need.The class emphasizes Rosh Chodesh's role in renewal, gratitude, and connecting to Hashem's lunar cycle.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #26._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #80) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 19, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #RoshChodesh,#KiddushLevanah, #Hallel, #YomKippurKatan, #ChanukahPrep, #JewishCalendar #MoonBlessing ★ Support this podcast ★

In this special Everyday Judaism episode timed for the start of Chanukah, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the significance and halachot of Rosh Chodesh (the new month), which coincides with Hallel recitation beginning the next morning. Rosh Chodesh is an auspicious time for atonement—Erev Rosh Chodesh is treated by some as Yom Kippur Katan (minor Day of Atonement) with fasting and special supplications—mirroring the monthly sin-offering in Temple times.Key practices include eating a festive meal (even adding a unique dish on Shabbos-Rosh Chodesh), women customarily refraining from work (in merit of not donating jewelry for the Golden Calf), reciting Yaaleh V'Yavo in Amidah, partial ("Chatzi") Hallel standing (as testimony to Hashem's miracles), Torah reading with four aliyot, and full Kaddish Titkabbal. Hallel is ideally with a minyan, uninterrupted, and standing; interruptions from Pesukei D'Zimra are permitted for Chatzi Hallel on Rosh Chodesh.The episode culminates in detailed laws of Kiddush Levanah (sanctifying the new moon outdoors at night, ideally Motzei Shabbos in fine attire and joy, with a minyan)—a protective mitzvah recited only when the moon's light is visible and beneficial, from after three days post-molad until the midpoint of the lunar month. Priorities favor frequent mitzvot (e.g., Ma'ariv before Kiddush Levanah unless time is pressing), with flexibility for weather or need.The class emphasizes Rosh Chodesh's role in renewal, gratitude, and connecting to Hashem's lunar cycle.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #26._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #80) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 19, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #RoshChodesh,#KiddushLevanah, #Hallel, #YomKippurKatan, #ChanukahPrep, #JewishCalendar #MoonBlessing ★ Support this podcast ★

We're thrilled to bring this experience closer to you by presenting a prayer read-along in Ashkenazic, Sephardic and Chassidic dialects, enhancing our personal connection to these sacred words. Ashkenazic read-along by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCHSephardic read-along by Rabbi Danny Masri of Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, TexasChassidic read-along by R' Shloime Zionce of Chassidic Embassy in Houston, TexasThis Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergThis episode (Ep. #44) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

We're thrilled to bring this experience closer to you by presenting a prayer read-along in Ashkenazic, Sephardic and Chassidic dialects, enhancing our personal connection to these sacred words. Ashkenazic read-along by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCHSephardic read-along by Rabbi Danny Masri of Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, TexasChassidic read-along by R' Shloime Zionce of Chassidic Embassy in Houston, TexasThis Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergThis episode (Ep. #44) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Prayer Podcast episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins an in-depth exploration of Baruch She'amar—the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra (verses of praise)—noting it may take one or two classes to cover fully. He explains the prayer's structure: an introductory section of 10 praises (corresponding to the 10 utterances of creation and 10 Commandments) followed by the actual blessing, with a total of 13 mentions of "Baruch" (representing Hashem's 13 Attributes of Mercy) and 87 words (numerical value of "paz" = finest gold, and acronym for Pesukei Dezimra).The rabbi highlights key practices: reciting Baruch She'amar standing, with song, while men hold the two front tzitzit strings (symbolizing 26 = YKVK); the prayer's origin (likely Men of the Great Assembly, with a heavenly revelation of exact wording); and its deeper meaning—praising Hashem who spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin), renews creation constantly (present tense verbs), decrees and fulfills, has compassion on all creatures, rewards the righteous eternally, redeems and rescues, and whose Name is blessed despite His hidden form.Hashem's actions are visible everywhere (modern miracles prove His presence), yet He remains concealed—Baruch She'amar reminds us to see the divine hand in all creation and live with constant gratitude and awe. The episode connects beautifully to the weekly parsha (Va'era), emphasizing Hashem's control and redemption._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #44) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 13, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 15, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #Hashem, #Renewal, #13Attributes, #DivineCreation, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

On Thursday's show: The Houston Chronicle reports that HISD Superintendent Mike Miles helped connect a consulting firm with a Texas charter school network to complete a nearly $1 million contract. While the parties involved say Miles was not paid for his role, some experts say the arrangement raises some concerns. Reporter Nusaiba Mizan explains.Also this hour: We continue our series looking at the year ahead with a discussion about education in Greater Houston.Then, on the 25th anniversary of Wikipedia, we learn about Houston-area Wikipedia edit-a-thons.And FIFA officials say the World Cup could bring $1.5 billion in economic activity to Houston. But who sees that money?Watch

In this Prayer Podcast episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins an in-depth exploration of Baruch She'amar—the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra (verses of praise)—noting it may take one or two classes to cover fully. He explains the prayer's structure: an introductory section of 10 praises (corresponding to the 10 utterances of creation and 10 Commandments) followed by the actual blessing, with a total of 13 mentions of "Baruch" (representing Hashem's 13 Attributes of Mercy) and 87 words (numerical value of "paz" = finest gold, and acronym for Pesukei Dezimra).The rabbi highlights key practices: reciting Baruch She'amar standing, with song, while men hold the two front tzitzit strings (symbolizing 26 = YKVK); the prayer's origin (likely Men of the Great Assembly, with a heavenly revelation of exact wording); and its deeper meaning—praising Hashem who spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin), renews creation constantly (present tense verbs), decrees and fulfills, has compassion on all creatures, rewards the righteous eternally, redeems and rescues, and whose Name is blessed despite His hidden form.Hashem's actions are visible everywhere (modern miracles prove His presence), yet He remains concealed—Baruch She'amar reminds us to see the divine hand in all creation and live with constant gratitude and awe. The episode connects beautifully to the weekly parsha (Va'era), emphasizing Hashem's control and redemption._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #44) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 13, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 15, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #Hashem, #Renewal, #13Attributes, #DivineCreation, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

On Wednesday's show: Early voting starts in a week for the 18th district Congressional runoff election. We discuss that and other developments in politics in our weekly roundup, from news in Washington surrounding the economy, Iran, and a Justice Department investigation into that fatal shooting by an ICE officer in Minnesota.Also this hour: We continue our series looking at the year ahead with a discussion about the issues in health care facing Greater Houston.And an upcoming series of performances called Free Rein from the contemporary music organization Musiqa and NobleMotion Dance combines music and dance with bioengineering to explore how creativity works in the human brain.Watch

On Tuesday's show: The Texans are moving on to face the New England Patriots after a decisive 30-6 victory over the Steelers Monday night. We recap the game and look ahead to the next round.Also this hour: We continue our series looking at the year ahead with a discussion about the issues in energy and the environment facing Greater Houston.Then, a new study explores links between sports betting and crime rates. It turns out, once a game starts, those crime rates go up -- even in some states, like Texas, that technically don't allow sports betting. We learn more.And, ahead of the My 15 Expo at NRG Center on Sunday, we learn about how quinceañeras have developed and grown over the years.Watch

In this Everyday Judaism episode on practical Jewish law (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains the rabbinic obligation of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing) before eating bread—a meal's centerpiece. Rooted in Temple-era purity laws (tumah and taharah) to prepare for terumah consumption, this decree persists today to maintain readiness for the future Temple, promote physical hygiene (highlighted during COVID-19), and foster spiritual holiness by countering arrogance.Key rules include using a complete, spoutless vessel (kli) with a flat top; pouring a generous revi'it (about 3–4 oz) of clean water twice per hand (right first), covering up to the wrist in one flow; reciting "al netilat yadayim" after washing while raising hands; and thoroughly drying (not on clothes, to avoid forgetfulness). Alternatives for no vessel: immersing in a river/mikvah/spring, or (in need) snow or faucet with human force.Rabbi Wolbe shares inspiring stories (Chafetz Chaim's sensitivity and humility) and emphasizes washing's deeper purpose: humbling ourselves before bread's 11-step process, recognizing accomplishments as Hashem's gifts rather than our own. The episode transitions to Ask Away #27, urging maximal spiritual use of Zos Chanukah (eighth day) through gazing at menorah lights, prayer, and abundant thanks to Hashem.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #27._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #81) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 5, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Everyday Judaism episode on practical Jewish law (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains the rabbinic obligation of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing) before eating bread—a meal's centerpiece. Rooted in Temple-era purity laws (tumah and taharah) to prepare for terumah consumption, this decree persists today to maintain readiness for the future Temple, promote physical hygiene (highlighted during COVID-19), and foster spiritual holiness by countering arrogance.Key rules include using a complete, spoutless vessel (kli) with a flat top; pouring a generous revi'it (about 3–4 oz) of clean water twice per hand (right first), covering up to the wrist in one flow; reciting "al netilat yadayim" after washing while raising hands; and thoroughly drying (not on clothes, to avoid forgetfulness). Alternatives for no vessel: immersing in a river/mikvah/spring, or (in need) snow or faucet with human force.Rabbi Wolbe shares inspiring stories (Chafetz Chaim's sensitivity and humility) and emphasizes washing's deeper purpose: humbling ourselves before bread's 11-step process, recognizing accomplishments as Hashem's gifts rather than our own. The episode transitions to Ask Away #27, urging maximal spiritual use of Zos Chanukah (eighth day) through gazing at menorah lights, prayer, and abundant thanks to Hashem.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #27._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #81) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 5, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

We're thrilled to bring this experience closer to you by presenting a prayer read-along in Ashkenazic, Sephardic and Chassidic dialects, enhancing our personal connection to these sacred words. Ashkenazic read-along by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCHSephardic read-along by Rabbi Danny Masri of Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, TexasChassidic read-along by R' Shloime Zionce of Chassidic Embassy in Houston, TexasThis Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergThis episode (Ep. #43) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Prayer Podcast episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe introduces Pesukei Dezimra (Verses of Praise) with Psalm 30—a relatively recent addition (about 400 years ago, per the Arizal)—as the gateway to deeper prayer. Though King David wrote it for the Temple's dedication (which his son Solomon performed), David embedded "Shlomo" acrostically and merited its use through his lifelong investment. The psalm transforms synagogues into a "mikdash me'at" (mini-Temple), elevating our mindset from social gathering to direct encounter with Hashem.Verse-by-verse, Rabbi Wolbe reveals David's profound humility: success is Hashem lifting us, not personal triumph; healing means forgiveness of sin; enemies are our yetzer hara (evil inclination); fleeting anger contrasts Hashem's desire for eternal life. Priorities flip—song precedes praise—reflecting constant gratitude turning into joyous overflow. The psalm parallels personal repentance, the Golden Calf forgiveness (leading to Tabernacle readiness on 25 Kislev—hinting at Chanukah), and dual emotions of joy/mourning.Ultimately, Psalm 30 aligns us: all is from Hashem, challenges are for growth, prayer humbles us to His will, and sincere cries (like David's, Chana's) are answered—preparing our souls to "sing forever" in Pesukei Dezimra's hallway to the Divine sanctuary._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #42) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

We're thrilled to bring this experience closer to you by presenting a prayer read-along in Ashkenazic, Sephardic and Chassidic dialects, enhancing our personal connection to these sacred words. Ashkenazic read-along by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCHSephardic read-along by Rabbi Danny Masri of Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, TexasChassidic read-along by R' Shloime Zionce of Chassidic Embassy in Houston, TexasThis Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergThis episode (Ep. #43) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Prayer Podcast episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe introduces Pesukei Dezimra (Verses of Praise) with Psalm 30—a relatively recent addition (about 400 years ago, per the Arizal)—as the gateway to deeper prayer. Though King David wrote it for the Temple's dedication (which his son Solomon performed), David embedded "Shlomo" acrostically and merited its use through his lifelong investment. The psalm transforms synagogues into a "mikdash me'at" (mini-Temple), elevating our mindset from social gathering to direct encounter with Hashem.Verse-by-verse, Rabbi Wolbe reveals David's profound humility: success is Hashem lifting us, not personal triumph; healing means forgiveness of sin; enemies are our yetzer hara (evil inclination); fleeting anger contrasts Hashem's desire for eternal life. Priorities flip—song precedes praise—reflecting constant gratitude turning into joyous overflow. The psalm parallels personal repentance, the Golden Calf forgiveness (leading to Tabernacle readiness on 25 Kislev—hinting at Chanukah), and dual emotions of joy/mourning.Ultimately, Psalm 30 aligns us: all is from Hashem, challenges are for growth, prayer humbles us to His will, and sincere cries (like David's, Chana's) are answered—preparing our souls to "sing forever" in Pesukei Dezimra's hallway to the Divine sanctuary._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #42) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 23, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms ★ Support this podcast ★

On Monday's show: Civil rights organizations are seeking to block parts of Senate Bill 12, a sweeping Texas law that prohibits discussions about gender identity in public schools as well as student clubs based on sexual orientation. We take a closer look at these lawsuits, the arguments they're making, and confusion about a key question at the heart of it all.Also this hour: What is the top news story in Greater Houston from 2025? From snow, to flooding, to almost winning an NCAA championship in men's basketball, we count down the top ten stories from the past year.And how close is Houston to having a WNBA team again? We get an update on Houston sports.Watch

Send us a textWelcome to the first of a couple of our QUEER VOICES Holiday Specials! We talk with Tammi Wallace about the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and how you can use them as a resource to find the right business to do... well... anything with! Then we have a roundtable featuring Bryan Hlavinka, Deborah Moncrief Bell, R. Lee Ingalls, and Brett Cullum discussing holiday traditions within the community. And we play a song or two to get you in the mood for the holidays! Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here. Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond. Check out our socials at:https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ andhttps://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

The entire chapter 39 of the Kitzur is about one practical question: “I'm about to sit down for a full bread meal in 15 minutes, but I'm starving right now – can I grab a snack without making a separate after-bracha later?” The answer is mostly yes. If you eat (or drink anything except wine) before washing for bread and you will eat/drink the same thing again during the meal, many authorities (including the Mishnah Berurah's primary opinion) say the Birkat Hamazon at the end covers everything you ate earlier – no extra after-bracha is not needed. To stay safe from doubt, the Kitzur's advice is simple: either (a) don't eat those foods before the meal, or (b) make sure you eat a little of the same food again during the meal so everything is clearly connected.Wine is the big exception (as always): it always needs its own before-bracha, and if you drink it before the meal you should either drink a revi'it again after Birkat Hamazon and make Al Hagefen, or simply avoid wine until Kiddush. Cakes, cookies, pretzels, and other mezonot items follow the lenient rule – if you'll have mezonot again during the meal, Birkat Hamazon covers the pre-meal nosh too. Rabbi Wolbe's bottom line: “Better to avoid the whole question and not snack right before a bread meal… but if you do, just eat a bite of the same thing during the meal and you're golden.”The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #25._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 9, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #BirkatHaMazon, #gratitude, #foodblessings, #wineblessings, #afterblessings, #Jewishcustoms ★ Support this podcast ★

The entire chapter 39 of the Kitzur is about one practical question: “I'm about to sit down for a full bread meal in 15 minutes, but I'm starving right now – can I grab a snack without making a separate after-bracha later?” The answer is mostly yes. If you eat (or drink anything except wine) before washing for bread and you will eat/drink the same thing again during the meal, many authorities (including the Mishnah Berurah's primary opinion) say the Birkat Hamazon at the end covers everything you ate earlier – no extra after-bracha is not needed. To stay safe from doubt, the Kitzur's advice is simple: either (a) don't eat those foods before the meal, or (b) make sure you eat a little of the same food again during the meal so everything is clearly connected.Wine is the big exception (as always): it always needs its own before-bracha, and if you drink it before the meal you should either drink a revi'it again after Birkat Hamazon and make Al Hagefen, or simply avoid wine until Kiddush. Cakes, cookies, pretzels, and other mezonot items follow the lenient rule – if you'll have mezonot again during the meal, Birkat Hamazon covers the pre-meal nosh too. Rabbi Wolbe's bottom line: “Better to avoid the whole question and not snack right before a bread meal… but if you do, just eat a bite of the same thing during the meal and you're golden.”The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #25._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 9, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #BirkatHaMazon, #gratitude, #foodblessings, #wineblessings, #afterblessings, #Jewishcustoms ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the significance of Pesukei Dezimra, a crucial segment of Jewish prayer known as the verses of song or praise. Rabbi Wolbe explains that Pesukei Dezimra serves as a preparatory phase for the main prayer, the Amidah, by fostering a state of joy and spiritual readiness. He emphasizes the importance of reciting these verses with intention and clarity, likening it to counting money—fast yet precise, ensuring no word is missed. The discussion highlights the transformative power of these prayers, which help individuals connect deeply with God, prune away distractions, and elevate their spiritual state.Rabbi Wolbe further explores the historical and spiritual context of Pesukei Dezimra, drawing on teachings from the Talmud and the Mishnah. He explains that these prayers are not only a form of praise but also a means of spiritual pruning, removing barriers to divine connection. The episode underscores the idea that prayer is a journey through different spiritual worlds, with Pesukei Dezimra acting as a vital transition from the physical to the spiritual realm. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to invest time and focus in their prayers, as this investment enhances their connection with God and enriches their spiritual lives._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #42) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 7, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms, #spiritual, #joy, #connection ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the significance of Pesukei Dezimra, a crucial segment of Jewish prayer known as the verses of song or praise. Rabbi Wolbe explains that Pesukei Dezimra serves as a preparatory phase for the main prayer, the Amidah, by fostering a state of joy and spiritual readiness. He emphasizes the importance of reciting these verses with intention and clarity, likening it to counting money—fast yet precise, ensuring no word is missed. The discussion highlights the transformative power of these prayers, which help individuals connect deeply with God, prune away distractions, and elevate their spiritual state.Rabbi Wolbe further explores the historical and spiritual context of Pesukei Dezimra, drawing on teachings from the Talmud and the Mishnah. He explains that these prayers are not only a form of praise but also a means of spiritual pruning, removing barriers to divine connection. The episode underscores the idea that prayer is a journey through different spiritual worlds, with Pesukei Dezimra acting as a vital transition from the physical to the spiritual realm. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to invest time and focus in their prayers, as this investment enhances their connection with God and enriches their spiritual lives._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #42) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 7, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms, #spiritual, #joy, #connection ★ Support this podcast ★

The Jewish response to elections – whether the shocking victory of an openly anti-Semitic mayor in New York City or any political upheaval throughout history – must be twofold: before the vote, we exercise full hishtadlut (effort) by voting, cultivating goodwill with leaders, and supporting candidates who protect Jewish safety (as our Sages sent gifts to Caesar and Rabbi Akiva petitioned Rome); after the vote, we immediately pivot to total bitachon, recognizing that the final outcome is 100 % Hashem's decree, often sent as a wake-up call that we have grown too comfortable in galut. History repeats itself: German Jews declared Berlin their Jerusalem, Polish Jews called Poland “Polin – here we shall dwell,” and today many American Jews act as if the United States is the final stop; every time we forget we are in exile, Hashem sends a jolt – sometimes from the left, sometimes from the right – to remind us that no political party, president, or democracy is our ultimate protector.The comforting truth is that these “potches” (divine smacks) are acts of love meant to push us back toward our mission: to be a light unto the nations wherever we are, and ultimately to yearn for and move toward Yerushalayim. When we respond correctly – by increasing Torah, tefillah, teshuvah, and authentic Jewish pride – the bitterness miraculously turns sweet, just as October 7th produced hundreds of thousands of newly observant Jews and countless stories of open miracles among the hostages. The message is clear: get comfortable being uncomfortable in galut, stop putting ultimate faith in any human leader or system, and remember that only the almighy (Hakadosh Baruch Hu) runs the world – and He is nudging us home.Engage with us by sharing your questions, and we look forward to addressing them in future episodes, fostering a more interactive experience for our audience by submitting your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by the Nagel Family.This Episode (#25) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast is dedicated in honor of The Nagel WeddingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) on November 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 25, 2025_____________Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, TexasASK! To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.orgRabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as the Senior Rabbi at Heimish of Houston and has been delivering the Daf Yomi (Daily Folio of Talmud) for TORCH since 2003. Rabbi Nagel is the Head of the Court for Jewish Divorce and actively serves as a member of the Houston Beis Din.Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe serves as the Director of TORCH since 2005._____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Yaakov Nagel:Daf Yomi Podcast - https://linktr.ee/DafYomiPodcastUnboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#RabbiNagel, #RabbiWolbe, #Jews, #Politics, #Unboxing, #Perspective, #Engagement, #Integration, #Safety, #Mobility, #FreeWill, #Effort, #Exile, #Divine ★ Support this podcast ★

The Jewish response to elections – whether the shocking victory of an openly anti-Semitic mayor in New York City or any political upheaval throughout history – must be twofold: before the vote, we exercise full hishtadlut (effort) by voting, cultivating goodwill with leaders, and supporting candidates who protect Jewish safety (as our Sages sent gifts to Caesar and Rabbi Akiva petitioned Rome); after the vote, we immediately pivot to total bitachon, recognizing that the final outcome is 100 % Hashem's decree, often sent as a wake-up call that we have grown too comfortable in galut. History repeats itself: German Jews declared Berlin their Jerusalem, Polish Jews called Poland “Polin – here we shall dwell,” and today many American Jews act as if the United States is the final stop; every time we forget we are in exile, Hashem sends a jolt – sometimes from the left, sometimes from the right – to remind us that no political party, president, or democracy is our ultimate protector.The comforting truth is that these “potches” (divine smacks) are acts of love meant to push us back toward our mission: to be a light unto the nations wherever we are, and ultimately to yearn for and move toward Yerushalayim. When we respond correctly – by increasing Torah, tefillah, teshuvah, and authentic Jewish pride – the bitterness miraculously turns sweet, just as October 7th produced hundreds of thousands of newly observant Jews and countless stories of open miracles among the hostages. The message is clear: get comfortable being uncomfortable in galut, stop putting ultimate faith in any human leader or system, and remember that only the almighy (Hakadosh Baruch Hu) runs the world – and He is nudging us home.Engage with us by sharing your questions, and we look forward to addressing them in future episodes, fostering a more interactive experience for our audience by submitting your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by the Nagel Family.This Episode (#25) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast is dedicated in honor of The Nagel WeddingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) on November 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 25, 2025_____________Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, TexasASK! To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.orgRabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as the Senior Rabbi at Heimish of Houston and has been delivering the Daf Yomi (Daily Folio of Talmud) for TORCH since 2003. Rabbi Nagel is the Head of the Court for Jewish Divorce and actively serves as a member of the Houston Beis Din.Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe serves as the Director of TORCH since 2005._____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Yaakov Nagel:Daf Yomi Podcast - https://linktr.ee/DafYomiPodcastUnboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#RabbiNagel, #RabbiWolbe, #Jews, #Politics, #Unboxing, #Perspective, #Engagement, #Integration, #Safety, #Mobility, #FreeWill, #Effort, #Exile, #Divine ★ Support this podcast ★

Jewish law prohibits bread (Pas Akum), cooked foods (Bishul Akum), and milk/cheese (Chalav/Gevinat Akum) prepared by non-Jews, not because the food itself is biblically non-kosher, but because the Sages wanted to limit close social bonding and the risk of intermarriage in ancient times, while also guarding against real kashrut problems (non-kosher animals, fats, etc.). For bread, a Jew must bake it or at least turn on the oven (Pas Yisrael); for cooked foods, the dish must be something not eaten raw and fit for a royal table, and a Jew must participate in the cooking; for milk, a Jew must supervise the milking (Chalav Yisrael) and cheese-making.In modern America (2025), government regulation and abundant kosher options have dramatically relaxed many of these rules according to the vast majority of poskim: supermarket bread (Wonder Bread, H-E-B, etc.) is permitted when no Jewish bakery is nearby, regular USDA milk and butter are kosher (Chalav Stam per Rav Moshe Feinstein), and most factory-canned, sealed, or restaurant foods where a Jew turned on the flame are fine, provided that everything cooked was Kosher. The gold standard for the meticulous remains Pas Yisrael, Bishul Yisrael, and Chalav Yisrael whenever reasonably available, but for everyday life in the U.S., plain coffee, beer, and grocery-store staples are reliably kosher.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #24._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on November 23, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 24, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Idolator, #assimilation, #intermarriage, #kosher, #cooking, #baking, #milking ★ Support this podcast ★

Jewish law prohibits bread (Pas Akum), cooked foods (Bishul Akum), and milk/cheese (Chalav/Gevinat Akum) prepared by non-Jews, not because the food itself is biblically non-kosher, but because the Sages wanted to limit close social bonding and the risk of intermarriage in ancient times, while also guarding against real kashrut problems (non-kosher animals, fats, etc.). For bread, a Jew must bake it or at least turn on the oven (Pas Yisrael); for cooked foods, the dish must be something not eaten raw and fit for a royal table, and a Jew must participate in the cooking; for milk, a Jew must supervise the milking (Chalav Yisrael) and cheese-making.In modern America (2025), government regulation and abundant kosher options have dramatically relaxed many of these rules according to the vast majority of poskim: supermarket bread (Wonder Bread, H-E-B, etc.) is permitted when no Jewish bakery is nearby, regular USDA milk and butter are kosher (Chalav Stam per Rav Moshe Feinstein), and most factory-canned, sealed, or restaurant foods where a Jew turned on the flame are fine. The gold standard for the meticulous remains Pas Yisrael, Bishul Yisrael, and Chalav Yisrael whenever reasonably available, but for everyday life in the U.S., plain coffee, beer, and grocery-store staples are reliably kosher.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #24._____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on November 23, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 24, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Idolator, #assimilation, #intermarriage, #kosher, #cooking, #baking, #milking ★ Support this podcast ★