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In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the third and fourth stages of genuine repentance: sorrow and action. True teshuvah requires more than intellectual acknowledgment of wrongdoing. A person must feel genuine pain over the damage caused to their relationship with Hashem. Just as people experience deep anguish over financial loss, broken relationships, or personal hardship, they should feel profound sorrow when they recognize that their actions have created distance between themselves and their Creator. The purpose of this sorrow is not self-punishment but the restoration of closeness with Hashem, who continuously showers kindness upon us even when we fall short. Rabbi Wolbe explains that the depth of a person's repentance is often measured by the depth of their regret. The more a person appreciates Hashem's endless love, generosity, and patience, the more painful it becomes to realize how they may have misused those gifts. This emotional response reflects the purity of the soul, which naturally longs to reconnect with its Divine source. Teshuvah is fundamentally about repairing a relationship, and sincere remorse demonstrates how much that relationship truly matters. The episode then introduces the next stage: transforming repentance from an internal feeling into external action. Regret in the heart is essential, but it must eventually be expressed through tangible change. Throughout Jewish history, fasting, tears, altered routines, increased prayer, and visible acts of humility have served as physical expressions of repentance. Rabbi Wolbe explains that these actions help a person internalize the seriousness of their mistakes and demonstrate a genuine commitment to growth. The lesson concludes by highlighting the role of the eyes and the heart as gateways to both holiness and temptation. Tears, introspection, and disciplined action become tools for cleansing the soul and rebuilding one's connection with Hashem. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 16, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #TransformYourLife, #Repentance, #HealingTheSoul, #SpiritualRenewal, ★ Support this podcast ★
In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the third and fourth stages of genuine repentance: sorrow and action. True teshuvah requires more than intellectual acknowledgment of wrongdoing. A person must feel genuine pain over the damage caused to their relationship with Hashem. Just as people experience deep anguish over financial loss, broken relationships, or personal hardship, they should feel profound sorrow when they recognize that their actions have created distance between themselves and their Creator. The purpose of this sorrow is not self-punishment but the restoration of closeness with Hashem, who continuously showers kindness upon us even when we fall short. Rabbi Wolbe explains that the depth of a person's repentance is often measured by the depth of their regret. The more a person appreciates Hashem's endless love, generosity, and patience, the more painful it becomes to realize how they may have misused those gifts. This emotional response reflects the purity of the soul, which naturally longs to reconnect with its Divine source. Teshuvah is fundamentally about repairing a relationship, and sincere remorse demonstrates how much that relationship truly matters. The episode then introduces the next stage: transforming repentance from an internal feeling into external action. Regret in the heart is essential, but it must eventually be expressed through tangible change. Throughout Jewish history, fasting, tears, altered routines, increased prayer, and visible acts of humility have served as physical expressions of repentance. Rabbi Wolbe explains that these actions help a person internalize the seriousness of their mistakes and demonstrate a genuine commitment to growth. The lesson concludes by highlighting the role of the eyes and the heart as gateways to both holiness and temptation. Tears, introspection, and disciplined action become tools for cleansing the soul and rebuilding one's connection with Hashem. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 16, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #TransformYourLife, #Repentance, #HealingTheSoul, #SpiritualRenewal, ★ Support this podcast ★
We all know the moment: a flash of "I made a mistake — I want to change." A hirhur teshuvah, a thought of return. So why does it so rarely turn into anything? In this live, give-and-take shiur — the third in the Sephardic Center series on Rebbe Nachman's tale of the Lost Princess — we sit with that exact question. Walking through the opening of the story, we watch the King turn into aviha — her father — the moment his daughter is lost. It's not the King who gives decrees and stays distant. It's your Father, and He's in pain. He misses you. That shift is the whole secret of why the search begins — and why our own thought of teshuvah is meant to move us. Along the way: why the spark sparks but the engine won't turn over; why summer is the hardest stretch; the painful Uman cycle of swearing at Rabbeinu's tziyun every Erev Rosh Hashana and falling again; what nekudos tovos have to do with it; and the eitzah — instead of demanding the whole transformation at once, stay inside the hirhur teshuvah, feel the pain of causing your Father pain, and take it one pound at a time. Plus an unforgettable personal story of a child's journey behind the Iron Curtain in 1976 — turned away from Uman, interrogated, and brought instead to the Baal Shem Tov's kever to say Tikkun HaKlali. We close with Rabbeinu's promise: hirhur teshuvah she'lo yashuv od le'ivalto — bring Him your broken stones and your cement, and He will build. In this shiur: The hirhur teshuvah — and why it doesn't become action The King who becomes a Father in pain "It's not the King who misses you — it's your Father" The Uman cycle, nekudos tovos, and not mistaking the spark for the victory The eitzah: stay in the thought, feel the pain, one step at a time A true story from behind the Iron Curtain, 1976 Part of Eilech V'anaseh — a journey through Rebbe Nachman's Lost Princess. #Breslov #RebbeNachman #LostPrincess #Teshuvah #HirhurTeshuvah #Eilech Vanaseh #Uman #Hisbodedus #Hashem #Emunah #SippureiMaasiyos #Chassidus #Torah #JewishWisdom #Spirituality #Faith #RoshHashana #BaalShemTov #JewishPodcast #Shiur
In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores several foundational principles necessary for genuine repentance. A person must first recognize that reward and punishment are real, and that every action carries spiritual consequences. Teshuvah becomes meaningful when we understand that Hashem is not distant or indifferent; He sees, hears, and records every deed, thought, and choice. The awareness that our lives matter and that our actions have eternal significance is what motivates a person to seek forgiveness and spiritual growth. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that accountability is not intended to frighten us but to elevate us. Every person possesses unique talents, opportunities, and potential. The question we will ultimately face is not whether we lived like everyone else, but whether we fulfilled the gifts Hashem specifically entrusted to us. Whether through charity, leadership, teaching, kindness, creativity, or service, every individual has a unique mission. Teshuvah includes recognizing not only the mistakes we made, but also the opportunities we neglected. The episode then presents a powerful perspective on gratitude. Rabbi Wolbe challenges listeners to reflect on the countless blessings they receive every day—health, mobility, sight, breath, family, and life's simple pleasures. Most people only appreciate these gifts when they lose them. By cultivating gratitude and recognizing Hashem's constant kindness, a person develops a deeper desire to serve God faithfully and to align their life with His will. Teshuvah is not merely about fixing what is wrong; it is about appreciating what is right and responding to Hashem's goodness with growth and commitment. Finally, Rabbi Wolbe teaches that spiritual growth is like climbing a mountain. We may not reach the summit immediately, but success begins by identifying the correct direction and taking the next step. The goal is not perfection overnight—it is consistent movement toward Hashem, one deliberate step at a time. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 15, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 11, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #StopProcrastinating, #StartToday, #JewishWisdom, #AtomicHabits ★ Support this podcast ★
In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores several foundational principles necessary for genuine repentance. A person must first recognize that reward and punishment are real, and that every action carries spiritual consequences. Teshuvah becomes meaningful when we understand that Hashem is not distant or indifferent; He sees, hears, and records every deed, thought, and choice. The awareness that our lives matter and that our actions have eternal significance is what motivates a person to seek forgiveness and spiritual growth. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that accountability is not intended to frighten us but to elevate us. Every person possesses unique talents, opportunities, and potential. The question we will ultimately face is not whether we lived like everyone else, but whether we fulfilled the gifts Hashem specifically entrusted to us. Whether through charity, leadership, teaching, kindness, creativity, or service, every individual has a unique mission. Teshuvah includes recognizing not only the mistakes we made, but also the opportunities we neglected. The episode then presents a powerful perspective on gratitude. Rabbi Wolbe challenges listeners to reflect on the countless blessings they receive every day—health, mobility, sight, breath, family, and life's simple pleasures. Most people only appreciate these gifts when they lose them. By cultivating gratitude and recognizing Hashem's constant kindness, a person develops a deeper desire to serve God faithfully and to align their life with His will. Teshuvah is not merely about fixing what is wrong; it is about appreciating what is right and responding to Hashem's goodness with growth and commitment. Finally, Rabbi Wolbe teaches that spiritual growth is like climbing a mountain. We may not reach the summit immediately, but success begins by identifying the correct direction and taking the next step. The goal is not perfection overnight—it is consistent movement toward Hashem, one deliberate step at a time. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 15, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 11, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #StopProcrastinating, #StartToday, #JewishWisdom, #AtomicHabits ★ Support this podcast ★
In this powerful continuation of the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains why delaying repentance is one of the greatest spiritual mistakes a person can make. Many people convince themselves that they will focus on spiritual growth "later"—after accumulating wealth, after reaching retirement, or after achieving their personal goals. Yet the Orchot Tzaddikim teaches that human desire is never fully satisfied. The person who seeks one hundred wants two hundred; the person who acquires two hundred wants four hundred. If repentance is postponed until after worldly ambitions are fulfilled, that day may never arrive. True growth begins when a person decides to act now rather than waiting for perfect circumstances.A central theme of the episode is the brevity of life and the illusion that we have unlimited time. Rabbi Wolbe vividly illustrates how quickly life passes and reminds listeners that none of us knows how much time we have. The work of spiritual growth is extensive, while our days are limited. Teshuvah is not merely regret—it is a moment of profound clarity when a person suddenly realizes that Hashem has been present all along, seeing every action, hearing every word, and knowing every intention. Like students shocked to discover that the principal has been standing in the back of the classroom the entire time, we awaken during the High Holiday season to the reality of Divine awareness and accountability.The episode also introduces the practical process of repentance. Before meaningful change can occur, a person must honestly acknowledge their mistakes rather than minimizing or rationalizing them. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that repentance is not reserved only for dramatic sins. Everyday actions—speech, dishonesty, neglecting mitzvos, hurting another person's feelings, or violating rabbinic safeguards—also require reflection and correction. Genuine teshuvah begins with self-awareness, personal responsibility, and the courage to recognize where improvement is needed. Through this process, every person can reconnect with Hashem and begin anew._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 9, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #StopProcrastinating, #StartToday, #JewishWisdom, #AtomicHabits ★ Support this podcast ★
In this powerful continuation of the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains why delaying repentance is one of the greatest spiritual mistakes a person can make. Many people convince themselves that they will focus on spiritual growth "later"—after accumulating wealth, after reaching retirement, or after achieving their personal goals. Yet the Orchot Tzaddikim teaches that human desire is never fully satisfied. The person who seeks one hundred wants two hundred; the person who acquires two hundred wants four hundred. If repentance is postponed until after worldly ambitions are fulfilled, that day may never arrive. True growth begins when a person decides to act now rather than waiting for perfect circumstances.A central theme of the episode is the brevity of life and the illusion that we have unlimited time. Rabbi Wolbe vividly illustrates how quickly life passes and reminds listeners that none of us knows how much time we have. The work of spiritual growth is extensive, while our days are limited. Teshuvah is not merely regret—it is a moment of profound clarity when a person suddenly realizes that Hashem has been present all along, seeing every action, hearing every word, and knowing every intention. Like students shocked to discover that the principal has been standing in the back of the classroom the entire time, we awaken during the High Holiday season to the reality of Divine awareness and accountability.The episode also introduces the practical process of repentance. Before meaningful change can occur, a person must honestly acknowledge their mistakes rather than minimizing or rationalizing them. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that repentance is not reserved only for dramatic sins. Everyday actions—speech, dishonesty, neglecting mitzvos, hurting another person's feelings, or violating rabbinic safeguards—also require reflection and correction. Genuine teshuvah begins with self-awareness, personal responsibility, and the courage to recognize where improvement is needed. Through this process, every person can reconnect with Hashem and begin anew._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 9, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #StopProcrastinating, #StartToday, #JewishWisdom, #AtomicHabits ★ Support this podcast ★
In this opening lesson of the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah) from Orchot Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains that repentance is one of the greatest gifts Hashem ever gave humanity. As we approach Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the message is clear: no matter how far a person has strayed, the moment they sincerely turn back toward Hashem, they are welcomed with open arms. Repentance is not about perfection—it is about reaching out for Divine help and allowing Hashem to lift us from our mistakes and guide us toward a fresh beginning. The episode explores a remarkable Talmudic teaching that Teshuvah reaches all the way to the Heavenly Throne of Glory. Through a vivid description of Moshe ascending the seven firmaments, Rabbi Wolbe explains how each level of Heaven praises a different spiritual ideal, yet at the highest level the angels praise repentance. This demonstrates that teshuvah is among the most elevated forces in creation. In fact, the Talmud teaches that repentance was created before the world itself, alongside the Torah, Gan Eden, Gehenom, the Beis HaMikdash, the Throne of Glory, and the name of Mashiach. Rabbi Wolbe further explains that the Torah is the instruction manual for life. Just as every complex creation requires a blueprint, the world was created with a Divine manual to guide humanity toward success. Since human beings inevitably make mistakes, Hashem created repentance before creation itself, ensuring that failure would never be final. The lesson is one of hope, accountability, and optimism: every person can return, repair, and grow. The episode concludes with a vision of the Messianic era, when the world will be filled with Divine wisdom and clarity, and humanity will fully recognize its purpose—to know Hashem and serve Him. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 7, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #Growth, #Return, #Elul, #MessianicEra, #GrowthMindset ★ Support this podcast ★
In this opening lesson of the Gate of Repentance (Shaar HaTeshuvah) from Orchot Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains that repentance is one of the greatest gifts Hashem ever gave humanity. As we approach Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the message is clear: no matter how far a person has strayed, the moment they sincerely turn back toward Hashem, they are welcomed with open arms. Repentance is not about perfection—it is about reaching out for Divine help and allowing Hashem to lift us from our mistakes and guide us toward a fresh beginning. The episode explores a remarkable Talmudic teaching that Teshuvah reaches all the way to the Heavenly Throne of Glory. Through a vivid description of Moshe ascending the seven firmaments, Rabbi Wolbe explains how each level of Heaven praises a different spiritual ideal, yet at the highest level the angels praise repentance. This demonstrates that teshuvah is among the most elevated forces in creation. In fact, the Talmud teaches that repentance was created before the world itself, alongside the Torah, Gan Eden, Gehenom, the Beis HaMikdash, the Throne of Glory, and the name of Mashiach. Rabbi Wolbe further explains that the Torah is the instruction manual for life. Just as every complex creation requires a blueprint, the world was created with a Divine manual to guide humanity toward success. Since human beings inevitably make mistakes, Hashem created repentance before creation itself, ensuring that failure would never be final. The lesson is one of hope, accountability, and optimism: every person can return, repair, and grow. The episode concludes with a vision of the Messianic era, when the world will be filled with Divine wisdom and clarity, and humanity will fully recognize its purpose—to know Hashem and serve Him. _____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 8, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Repentance, #Teshuva, #YomKippur, #NewBeginning, #Growth, #Return, #Elul, #MessianicEra, #GrowthMindset ★ Support this podcast ★
Continuing through the Book of Zechariah we continue to dig deep into God's Word. Part 4 of the series Teshuvah (return). This sermon was given by Messianic Rabbi Frank Davis during our Saturday Shabbat Service on June 6, 2026. Link to our website: www.seedofabraham.org If you want to donate (U.S. Residents only) to our ministry and help bring the Good News to people: https://seedofabraham.org/digital-giving/
EXODUS LESSON 73 PART 2 I strongly urge you to listen to Lesson 73 part 1 before listening to part 2. You'll see how important it is to make sure you do this to get a better understanding of the questions and issues in these verses. Here's the link for part 1 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-73-part-1-exod-3210-18-god-cant-change-his-mind/ One major problem we'll deal with is the way the translators of the New American Standard Bible 1995 translated the Hebrew in Exod. 32:14 to come up with the phrase, “God changed His mind.” In part 1 it is so clear that God does not change and never changes His mind. This is a major issue and one wonders how this could've happened since again and again the very words of God show the truth that God does not change and never changes His mind. Below check out the chart. You'll see that the NASB is the only Bible version that uses the phrase “God changed His mind.” The King James (KJV) and the Amplified Bible (AMP) and the Jewish Publication Society (JPS) translations are probably the most accurate. The Lord repented or turned away from one thing to turn to another. Repent in Hebrew comes from the Hebrew verb LaShuv לָשׁוּב meaning to turn around or to go back. The Strong's number H7725. It is the verb that forms the Hebrew word for repentance of Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה. It is not just connected to doing repentance from sin. It could be one wants to give up smoking. So one would turn from smoking and to turn to something else. In other words one is doing Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה from smoking. That is how the Bible uses the word and not just related to sin. Thus, God is turning from one thing to do another. I wrote an article on trying to get at this in a more understandable way. Here's the article below. Does God change His mind? How can this be? We have two verses that contradict each other. Consider ... Exodus 32:14 So the LORD changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people. (Exo 32:14) Malachi 3:6 "For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed." (Mal 3:6) Which is it? If God does not change then how did Moses have God change His mind and yet God says He will not. This is not like God. This is nuts. I thought the Bible was in full agreement!! Can this be explained?? Also, one reads in the very words of God that certain people will be restricted from the Assembly of God. Deu 23:1-8 "No one who is emasculated or has his male organ cut off shall enter the assembly of the LORD. (2) "No one of illegitimate birth shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of his descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall enter the assembly of the LORD. (3) "No Ammonite or Moabite shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of their descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall ever enter the assembly of the LORD, (4) because they did not meet you with food and water on the way when you came out of Egypt, and because they hired against you Balaam the son of Beor from Pethor of Mesopotamia, to curse you. (5) "Nevertheless, the LORD your God was not willing to listen to Balaam, but the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you because the LORD your God loves you. (6) "You shall never seek their peace or their prosperity all your days. (7) "You shall not detest an Edomite, for he is your brother; you shall not detest an Egyptian, because you were an alien in his land. (8) "The sons of the third generation who are born to them may enter the assembly of the LORD. It says that all Moabites are so restricted and yet Ruth gets in. Why? How? (Listen to part 1 carefully regarding the Moabites. No Moabite will be allowed in to the Assembly of Israel up to an including the 10th generation by God's own words. Wait till you see how Ruth is probably of the 11th generation when one studies the Bible in its historical context. So, she can get in and she did!) It says that a MUMZER will not enter and Timothy is a mumzer - his mom was Jewish and his dad a pagan (Hebrew for one of illegitimate birth)!! Timothy!! He became a leader of the assembly of Messiah in Ephesus. We say as Gentiles we are grafted in but the Torah says NO!! God says it loud and clear. What is going on? How can both be true? Oh sure. One is the church and one is the synagogue. Right?? It can't be. This is a conundrum!! Let's check the Hebrew of Exod. 32:14 and Mal. 3:6. Exo 32:14 וינחם H5162 יהוה H3068 על H5921 הרעה H7451 אשׁר H834 דבר H1696 לעשׂות H6213 לעמו׃ H5971 Mal 3:6 כי H3588 אני H589 יהוה H3068 לא H3808 שׁניתי H8138 ואתם H859 בני H1121 יעקב H3290 לא H3808 כליתם׃ H3615 In English we are reading the word “change” (as to change one's mind in Ex 32:14 - word # 5162) and change (as to someone not changing as in Mal 3:6 - word #8138). In Exod 32:14 God "racham's" - it does NOT say He changes His mind!! The word racham is the word that is translated as "He changed His mind." That phrase is not even there. A better way to say this is that God repents; God turns from one thing to another. He REPENTS. Moses did NOT change HIS mind. What happened is God has set in place either punishment or a curse on those who are unrighteous. That is His intention. However, equally part of HIS intention is God's other option to forgive and erase the punishment if there is true repentance. Both options exist for God. It is one or the other - this is His simultaneous intention and purpose. Moses intervened for Israel and God did not change His mind. He can't. What God did was to turn, to repent, and allowed the other option. Both options are in play, both are His intentions. God has laid out those two options as part of His intentions. Thus, He did not change at all. In Mal 3:6 the word is "shanaw." This has the picture of "folding" one side on another. It has the implication of duplicating. God stays constant. He is ONE and will remain ONE. He is the Lord and HE does not go from one intention to another. Like with Moses God had either punishment or forgiveness. Both exist at once as God's intentions. In the case of sin this is God - both exist. He will turn from one to the other, from punishment to forgiveness if there is true teshuvah, repentance from the sin, and will not do option 1 but option 2. God is like that. He is always like that. God has it all covered and these options are already in place with HIM as His intentions. He will not do anything that is not already a part of HIMSELF. Thus, we study Torah to know HIM deeply and intimately and to begin to understand His ways. Finally, Moses was the greatest prophet of the Hebrew Scriptures (Deut. 34:10). God tells Moses the following … “I will raise up a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.” (Deu 18:18) This is the Lord's prediction of the future coming of His Son, Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah. So, Jesus is a prophet like Moses; for us as disciples of Jesus we'd say Jesus is the Greatest Prophet ever. But, we are to be disciples of Jesus or talmidim תַּלְמִידִים. A talmid is one who is a student of a rabbi and who lives to be like his rabbi. Check out the article entitled "Rabbi and Talmidim" at this link ... https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/rabbi-and-talmidim Jesus says this quite clearly … “A pupil (from the Greek to the Hebrew is TALMID) is not above his teacher (from the Greek to the Hebrew is RAV or master. We say RABBI); but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.” (Luk 6:40) Thus, if we are real talmidim we are to be like Jesus. He was given the words of His Father to proclaim and thus Jesus is a prophet. But we are given the words of Jesus to go and proclaim. So, we are prophets as well in that Jesus sends us to bring the word to the Ends of the Earth. And as Moses offers prayers of intercession for Israel so Jesus offers prayers of intercession for His talmidim and the church, His Bride. Thus, if we are truly living to be a true disciple then we to must be ones who offer prayers of intercession for the ones we meet as well. We are to be like Him and follow Paul's teaching when he taught that we are to be like Paul since he is like his master, his RAV, Jesus (1Cor. 11:1). Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? (Ferret - somewhere in the desert north of Eilat Israel) What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This class explores the message of Pesach Sheini, emphasizing that it's never too late to return to Hashem. Through the story of those who missed the first Korban Pesach, we learn about the unique spiritual power of teshuvah and how every Jew can reconnect and reach new heights. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/004_bamidbar/003_behalosecha/023
The Rebbe writes that it is more important for students to be in yeshivah during the end of Elul and the Ten Days of Repentance than during Av. He adds that vacation should not be given both in Av and also in Elul and the Ten Days of Repentance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/011/009/3521
In Ask Away #34, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles profound and sometimes challenging questions with clarity, warmth, and deep Torah insight. The episode begins with a clear explanation of the 613 Mitzvos, the 365 prohibitions, and the 7 Noahide laws, emphasizing that we should treat every commandment as if it were the most important. He then explores the deeper purpose of the Temple — not only an external structure but a call for us to elevate ourselves through real-life struggle and growth, rather than remaining in isolated holiness.Rabbi Wolbe addresses the complexities of Shalom Bayit in interfaith marriages, the beauty of learning to speak each other's “language” in marriage, and offers a heartfelt defense of Chassidic customs while highlighting the extraordinary Chesed (kindness) of the Chassidic community (Hatzalah, Bikur Cholim, etc.). He responds thoughtfully to a difficult contemporary question about enemies and chastisement, reminding listeners that the ultimate solution lies in our own Teshuvah and closeness to Hashem. The session closes with inspiration on the centrality of Torah study throughout Jewish history and the incredible resources available today.As always, Rabbi Wolbe blends practical halacha, historical perspective, personal stories, and motivational guidance, leaving listeners empowered to grow in their relationship with Hashem.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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 February 22, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 28, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #613Mitzvot, #ShalomBayit, #Chassidic, #Hatzalah, #TempleWithin, #JewishUnity, #LoveYourFellowJew ★ Support this podcast ★
In Ask Away #34, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles profound and sometimes challenging questions with clarity, warmth, and deep Torah insight. The episode begins with a clear explanation of the 613 Mitzvos, the 365 prohibitions, and the 7 Noahide laws, emphasizing that we should treat every commandment as if it were the most important. He then explores the deeper purpose of the Temple — not only an external structure but a call for us to elevate ourselves through real-life struggle and growth, rather than remaining in isolated holiness.Rabbi Wolbe addresses the complexities of Shalom Bayit in interfaith marriages, the beauty of learning to speak each other's “language” in marriage, and offers a heartfelt defense of Chassidic customs while highlighting the extraordinary Chesed (kindness) of the Chassidic community (Hatzalah, Bikur Cholim, etc.). He responds thoughtfully to a difficult contemporary question about enemies and chastisement, reminding listeners that the ultimate solution lies in our own Teshuvah and closeness to Hashem. The session closes with inspiration on the centrality of Torah study throughout Jewish history and the incredible resources available today.As always, Rabbi Wolbe blends practical halacha, historical perspective, personal stories, and motivational guidance, leaving listeners empowered to grow in their relationship with Hashem.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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 February 22, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 28, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #613Mitzvot, #ShalomBayit, #Chassidic, #Hatzalah, #TempleWithin, #JewishUnity, #LoveYourFellowJew ★ Support this podcast ★
In day 138 of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues exploring the Gate of Slander in Orchos Tzaddikim, focusing on the fifth dimension: speaking negatively about a Ba'al Teshuvah (penitent). He explains the profound spiritual transformation that occurs through genuine repentance — past sins are not merely forgiven but actually converted into merits. Therefore, reminding a penitent of their former wrongdoings is especially grave, as it mocks what have now become mitzvahs.Rabbi Wolbe stresses the importance of giving others the benefit of the doubt, not publicizing private sins, and judging favorably. He shares a powerful personal story of his own momentary lapse and immediate teshuvah, as well as a story about a rabbi who assumed a diabetic had eaten non-kosher food out of medical necessity. The class highlights how destructive it is to rob someone of their dignity and honor, and notes that true Lashon Hara (factually accurate negative speech) is often more damaging than false slander because it is more readily believed._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 27, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chofetzchaim, #Slander, #Gossip, #ShmirasHaLashon, #teshuvah, #judgefavorably, #dignity, #powerofspeech, #repentance ★ Support this podcast ★
In day 138 of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues exploring the Gate of Slander in Orchos Tzaddikim, focusing on the fifth dimension: speaking negatively about a Ba'al Teshuvah (penitent). He explains the profound spiritual transformation that occurs through genuine repentance — past sins are not merely forgiven but actually converted into merits. Therefore, reminding a penitent of their former wrongdoings is especially grave, as it mocks what have now become mitzvahs.Rabbi Wolbe stresses the importance of giving others the benefit of the doubt, not publicizing private sins, and judging favorably. He shares a powerful personal story of his own momentary lapse and immediate teshuvah, as well as a story about a rabbi who assumed a diabetic had eaten non-kosher food out of medical necessity. The class highlights how destructive it is to rob someone of their dignity and honor, and notes that true Lashon Hara (factually accurate negative speech) is often more damaging than false slander because it is more readily believed._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 27, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chofetzchaim, #Slander, #Gossip, #ShmirasHaLashon, #teshuvah, #judgefavorably, #dignity, #powerofspeech, #repentance ★ Support this podcast ★
In day 136 of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his study of the Gate of Slander from Orchos Tzaddikim (Ways of the Righteous). He explains why the Sages consider Lashon Hara worse than the three cardinal sins: unlike those sins, which stem from momentary temptation and allow for Teshuvah, habitual slander becomes normalized, minimized in the speaker's eyes (“It's just words”), and extremely difficult to fully repent because of the hidden, far-reaching damage it causes.Rabbi Wolbe highlights the practical devastation caused by negative speech — lost jobs, ruined marriages, damaged family relationships, and even generational harm — and the challenge of seeking forgiveness when one cannot remember everyone affected. He strongly criticizes modern media and comedy that casually destroy reputations under the guise of “journalism” or “just joking.” The class ends on an inspiring note about the tremendous positive power of speech: the same tongue that can destroy can also build, encourage, teach Torah, and bring people closer to God, as “life and death are in the hands of the tongue.”_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 25, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chafetzchaim, #reputationsmatter, #spiritualgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
In day 136 of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his study of the Gate of Slander from Orchos Tzaddikim (Ways of the Righteous). He explains why the Sages consider Lashon Hara worse than the three cardinal sins: unlike those sins, which stem from momentary temptation and allow for Teshuvah, habitual slander becomes normalized, minimized in the speaker's eyes (“It's just words”), and extremely difficult to fully repent because of the hidden, far-reaching damage it causes.Rabbi Wolbe highlights the practical devastation caused by negative speech — lost jobs, ruined marriages, damaged family relationships, and even generational harm — and the challenge of seeking forgiveness when one cannot remember everyone affected. He strongly criticizes modern media and comedy that casually destroy reputations under the guise of “journalism” or “just joking.” The class ends on an inspiring note about the tremendous positive power of speech: the same tongue that can destroy can also build, encourage, teach Torah, and bring people closer to God, as “life and death are in the hands of the tongue.”_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 25, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chafetzchaim, #reputationsmatter, #spiritualgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins a new chapter from Orchos Tzaddikim (Ways of the Righteous) on the Gate of Slander (Lashon Hara). He explains that Lashon Hara refers to true but negative speech about another person, distinguishing it from Motzi Shem Ra (spreading false rumors). The rabbi emphasizes how destructive such speech is — it harms the subject's reputation, damages relationships and business opportunities, and offers the speaker no real benefit, only a fleeting sense of superiority.Rabbi Wolbe highlights the extreme severity of this sin according to our Sages: speaking Lashon Hara is compared to denying God and is equated with the three cardinal sins (idolatry, illicit relations, and murder). He stresses that one must never bring up a person's past once they have done Teshuvah. A personal anecdote illustrates how easily Lashon Hara becomes the default topic in social gatherings, underscoring the need for conscious effort to avoid it. The class concludes with a powerful reminder from the Chafetz Chaim on guarding one's tongue to truly desire life and see good in others._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 24, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chafetzchaim, #reputationsmatter, #spiritualgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins a new chapter from Orchos Tzaddikim (Ways of the Righteous) on the Gate of Slander (Lashon Hara). He explains that Lashon Hara refers to true but negative speech about another person, distinguishing it from Motzi Shem Ra (spreading false rumors). The rabbi emphasizes how destructive such speech is — it harms the subject's reputation, damages relationships and business opportunities, and offers the speaker no real benefit, only a fleeting sense of superiority.Rabbi Wolbe highlights the extreme severity of this sin according to our Sages: speaking Lashon Hara is compared to denying God and is equated with the three cardinal sins (idolatry, illicit relations, and murder). He stresses that one must never bring up a person's past once they have done Teshuvah. A personal anecdote illustrates how easily Lashon Hara becomes the default topic in social gatherings, underscoring the need for conscious effort to avoid it. The class concludes with a powerful reminder from the Chafetz Chaim on guarding one's tongue to truly desire life and see good in others._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 24, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #lashonhara, #guardyourtongue, #chafetzchaim, #reputationsmatter, #spiritualgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
The Rebbe addresses a long gap in correspondence, blesses the recipient's grandson on his Bar Mitzvah, and discusses the unique desire of chassidim for teshuvah. He encourages using the content of a Nshei U'Bnos Chabad letter and references sources about the spiritual longing for repentance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/017/008/6279
Continuing through the Book of Zechariah - this is part 3 of the message entitled "Teshuvah". This sermon was given by Messianic Rabbi Frank Davis during our Saturday Shabbat Service on May 2, 2026.
Stories about Teshuvah and chesed by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian
In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin shares thoughts on some phrases from a familiar source. The thoughts can teach us some lessons about Teshuvah, repentance, appropriate not only at the High Holy Day season but at all seasons.
What is true repentance? Scripture calls us not just to feel sorry—but to return to covenant obedience. In this teaching, we explore the biblical foundation of teshuvah, why repentance is essential to the Gospel, and how turning back to God's commandments leads to life. Yeshua called us to repent. The apostles preached it. The prophets cried out for it. It's time to return—and live.
#460> Sponsored by Machon Netzach Yaakov> Sponsored in honor of the birthday of Yehoshua Rubin> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1> To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
In this episode, Gary Jenkins, retired intelligence detective, sits down with veteran true crime authors Frank Gerardot and Burl Barer to examine their book Where Murder Lies, a case that intersects Russian organized crime, Italian mob connections, and a troubling claim of wrongful conviction. At the center of the story is Jimmy Kitlas, a young man who struggled with learning disabilities and instability after aging out of a rehabilitation facility in Los Angeles. Facing homelessness and limited options, he gravitated toward individuals connected to the Russian mob, seeking protection and belonging. Instead, he was drawn into criminal schemes—including check fraud and drug trafficking—engineered by experienced mob figures who exploited his vulnerabilities. Frank and Burl provide historical context on the rise of Russian organized crime in the United States, particularly in neighborhoods like Brighton Beach. Unlike the rigid hierarchy of traditional Mafia families, these groups often operated through looser networks, engaging in lucrative scams such as gas tax fraud alongside Italian crime figures. The authors explain how these alliances blurred lines between ethnic crime groups and created new power structures within the American underworld. The discussion then shifts to the murder that reshaped Jimmy's life. What began as manipulation and grooming evolved into betrayal, jealousy, and ultimately violence. The authors detail how Jimmy's arrest followed a carefully orchestrated narrative that shifted blame onto him while shielding more powerful figures. Through examination of court records and transcripts, Gerardot and Barer argue that investigative failures and prosecutorial decisions compounded the injustice. 0:02 Introduction and Guests 0:47 Wrongful Conviction Discussion 4:26 Kelly Lee’s Influence 6:33 Russian Mob Background 12:28 Jimmy Kitlas’ Journey 18:47 Investigative Challenges 22:58 The Murder Plot 26:45 Russian Mob Operations 28:29 Geographic Control in LA 31:29 Trust and Collaboration 35:03 Daniel Patterson’s Role 37:10 Conclusion and Book Promotions Hit me up on Venmo for a cup of coffee or a shot and a beer @ganglandwire Click here to “buy me a cup of coffee” Subscribe to the website for weekly notifications about updates and other Mob information. To go to the store or make a donation or rent Ballot Theft: Burglary, Murder, Coverup, click here To rent ‘Brothers against Brothers’ or ‘Gangland Wire,’ the documentaries click here. To purchase one of my books, click here. [0:00] Hey, all you wiretappers, good to be back here in the studio of Gangland Wire. This is Gary Jenkins, retired Kansas City Police Intelligence Unit detective, and I have two guests today. Frank Girdo. Is that correct, Frank? Girdo? That’s pretty good. Gerardot. I’ll take it. Gerardot. Gerardot. Just don’t pronounce a T at the end, right? Yes, sir. [0:24] And Burl Barer. Is it Barer, Burl? Yep, that’s close enough for government work. Joe’s enough for government work. That’s the story of my life, as everybody knows. I like to get it close. And we never let the real facts get in the way of a good story either. So let’s just get going here. We like to tell stories on this channel. That’s what my guys like is stories. [0:44] Stories about the Russian mob and maybe a little bit about the Italian mob. And we also got a story about a wrongful conviction, which is a kind of a hot topic right now. We’re seeing a lot of different things in these true crime shows about wrongful convictions. And there’s been, I think a lot of them have been uncovered. In the last few years because people started paying attention to that a little more than they used to. When I was a policeman, they didn’t pay any attention. Never heard of a wrongful conviction. I really congratulate you investigators and authors and true crime diggers out there that see these things and then go take a look at them because they need to be taken and given a look at. So Burl Baer is an Edgar winning author and two-time Anthony Ward nominee. He’s got a lot of experience in reporting. I see you’ve been in the Hollywood Reporter, even the London Sunday Telegraph, New York Times, USA Today. [1:38] You’ve got, I believe you’ve got some other, what else do you do, Burrell? I watch a lot of TV, watch a lot of movies. What kind of shows have you been on? You’ve done other investigations here. Yeah. I did almost, Frank and I have done most of those shows. Deadly Women, Deadly Sins, Behind Mansion Walls, you know, all. [1:57] Do you name them and claim them? We’ve probably been on them. All right. And Frank Gerardot, you’re a journalist, radio host. You’ve authored several true crime nonfiction books, co-author with Burl on A Taste for Murder, Betrayal in Blue. And you did one with somebody else named Byrne. Oh, that was about John Orr. And I read that book. Actually, I read that book, that John Orr. That was a hell of a story, man. That was a hell of a story. Several years ago. So that’s a, it’s a crazy thing. And that, that, that book really tells the story of John Orr through his daughter’s perspective. Ah, okay. And, and I don’t remember which one I read. I read one. I listened to a podcast about the whole thing all the way through guys. That was the LA County was an LA County fireman, fire investigator who was sat in his own fire all up and down in California. Oh yeah. He would go up North. He was in Southern California. He would go up north to a fire conference and he’d set fires on the way back. It was crazy, craziest story I ever read. And after he got arrested, the number of arson fires in California declined by 70%. I’ll be darned. I’ll be darned. He set brush fires, just all kinds of fires. It was crazy. Name of that book is Burn, Guys, if you’re interested in that by Frank Cardo. That’s the French pronunciation. Yes, sir. Yes. [3:18] So these two guys, they have their publicist, God Hold Me, and they introduced me to this book, Where Murder Lies. It is a fascinating look, and they did a real great examination of the Russian mob, a little connection to the Italian mob in New York City as part of this investigation into really a wrongful conviction case, a wrongful conviction of a kid who was, I guess we don’t use the word retarded anymore. He was mentally disabled and retarded in some manner. I’m not sure exactly how to describe that anymore. How would you guys describe him? So, yeah, I think he’s differently abled. We’ll say that. He’s actually a pretty smart guy. He speaks a lot of languages. He read this book in a night. [4:01] He just, I think more of his problem is that he’s maybe learning. He had learning difficulties. And as you’ll see when we get into the book here, he had a lot of physical and emotional trauma growing up. Okay. Jimmy Kittlis was his name. Yes. And a woman named… Kelly Lee. [4:22] A woman named Kelly Lee got you guys interested in this story. It’s a wrongful conviction story that strays into this mob ties. Who was she? Now, who was Kelly Lee? [4:32] I could tell you about Kelly Lee. She was one of the first people I met when I came to Los Angeles in November of 2003. Three, she was doing intake at Teshuvah, which is a Jewish community kind of rehab for people with all-matter recovery issues. I’d just been through a bad patch, et cetera. He needed some help. She did my intake. Wound up becoming friends with her and her husband. And a few years later, we’re having dinner together. She says, oh, Pearl, you’re a true crime writer. I go, duh, yeah. And she pulls out a handful of court transcripts that are difficult to get nowadays. Thank you. Says, take a look at this. She was, at the time this murder took place, what I would term an unlicensed pharmaceutical supplier on the streets of West Hollywood. Correctly. Gotcha. Marijuana, primarily. Yeah. And she had six arrests for selling pot, which now would probably get her a community service award here. Yeah. Times were different. And when Jimmy Kittlis ages out of the facilities or whatever down in Lake Elsinore. When he turns 18, they just put him on a bus with a ticket to West Hollywood. Goodbye. [5:49] And he gets off. He meets her. She’s a very compassionate person. She can see that this kid is really childlike. Babe in the woods or babe on the street, he’s really going to get taken advantage of. She takes him under her wing like a surrogate mom and tries to tell him and teach him how to survive on the street. And then she said, he’s like a child. Could be really eager to please, super polite, has the intentions man of a goldfish. Oh, look, there’s a castle. Oh, look, there’s a castle. It’d be very easily used. [6:28] It had a lot of sexual energy. He needed a girlfriend. He got one and got her pregnant. And she really tried to help these kids, But she couldn’t be with him 24-7 And she certainly raised her eyebrows When she saw who was spending a lot of time With this couple And that was a well-known fellow In the Russian mob, Yeah, I read that So let’s talk a little bit about the Russian mob So you guys really went in the background When they first came to Brighton Beach Tell the guys a little bit about that background. [7:02] Yeah, sure. As the Soviet Union began to crumble, a lot of Russian Jews found their way to New York, and they found their way to Brighton Beach. And they set up a sort of black market trading system among themselves and within the community with all the sort of standard features of mafia, right? Protection, extortion, sometimes murder, certainly dealing in black market stuff like drugs. [7:32] Clubs, prostitution, just about every kind of crime you can think of happening in a neighborhood that’s protected by a mafia. These guys were controlling in this neighborhood of Brooklyn called Brighton Beach. What I thought was interesting, and readers will probably find interesting too, is that there’s not a real setup like a commission or families. The Russian mob really operates more like Ronin. There’s guys that just independent operators and build up their business based on their relationships and how many people they can pull into a scheme. What we also found is that these guys were pretty adaptable and they picked up on a scam that the Lucchesis and the Gambinos were operating. And that was to get gas, steal it, take it from places where it wasn’t really tracked and put it into gas stations, sell it for maybe a penny less than the guy across the street, but capture the tax, the federal excise tax money and pocket it. And this was a multi-million dollar scheme And to the fine-tuning of it The Russian mob, Worked with guys like Michael Francesi To really extract as much as they could from it One of the guys in our book. [9:00] Meyer Ida, who was in Brighton Beach and operating there, came to Los Angeles in the mid-90s and started up the gas tax scheme. But the feds were pretty wise to it at that point, and he got caught up in the sting. Interesting. If I remember right, some of them were, they couldn’t steal it, but they would set up companies, shell companies, and then buy gas and then sell it a little bit cheaper. And it was up to them to collect the tax and then pay the state. And they do this for a certain period of time. And then they just declare file bankruptcy or just walk away from that shell company and create another little LLC and do the same thing. So just like run after you just couldn’t catch up. You bust out of one and move on to the next one. And that’s what they and you could they change the laws for gasoline purchase changed as a result because you could just go buy it. You can make up a company today, buy it tomorrow, sell it on Thursday, collect the tax on Friday, and bail out on Saturday and start all over again next week. Wow. Wow. There’s a scam. There’s a mob that’s willing to take advantage of a loophole like that. It’s crazy. So they moved out to LA. What other kind of scams? Go ahead. Go ahead, Brett. I was going to say that the Russians were so good at this type of scam, far ahead mentally of the American Mafia. [10:29] They were the best people they ever worked with. They were geniuses. They knew how to do this unlike any other. And in fact, the gas tax scam, the biggest moneymaker for the Russian mob and eventually the American mafia than any other form of income, billions of dollars. Interesting also is that if the former Soviet Union, should probably know, they factor in the Russian mob in their economy. I believe the last figure was 63% of the GNP of Russia was crime. They actually give a figure for it. Here we go. In America, this percentage of our federal income is from crime, but in Russia, they do. 63%. I don’t know what it is in America, But we talked to this Stan, who’s never going to pronounce his last name. And he had been in the Russian mob ever since he was a kid, raised in it. [11:32] And so that’s just what we were brought up with. We didn’t think there was anything unusual. If you were a girl, you were going to be a sex worker. They were respectable. If you were a guy, you were going to do this. And it was never as bad or as evil as the Americans said it was. It was always, the Russians are coming, the Russians are coming. coming. It’s so scary. I noticed you had a chapter titled Glassnose Gangsters. [12:00] I thought that was a pretty tricky title. I also read once that in Russia, they were so used to dealing with corrupt officials and running different scams that were in and around governmental agencies, like the tax collecting thing. They were so used to that, that they really refined this to a fine point than Americans could, because we’re not so used to dealing with corrupt officials. We have some, but not like Russia. Russia was an art in Russia. [12:28] Yeah, and they just took the template and brought it right over here and started earning pretty quickly. So now, how does Jimmy Kittlis, he’s a street kid. He’s one of these, what I call throwaway kids. We have this group of kids on the streets that are 18, 19, 20, use drugs. And lots of times these older men who are gay want to pay him for sex or bring him in and take care of him. Was he one of those kids? Did he get into that kind of a lifestyle? [13:02] He’s a homeless kid. He’s a runaway. And the place that he goes to, Hollywood and West Hollywood, is full of people that want to exploit young boys. Yeah. The lifestyle that he got into, though, was I think he recognized that there would be, people there who were stronger than him and smarter than him and want to take advantage of him. And so he sought out ways to hook up with mobsters because he figured that if he was connected, that would protect him from some of the bad stuff that might happen, especially like sexual exploitation. [13:41] When he goes into a homeless shelter, he peripherally knows about Mark. He asks around about Mark, who’s a Russian mobster. And the homeless shelter introduces them and says, oh, hey, yeah, Jimmy here would like to do some work with you. And so he falls into doing work with Mark and let the scamming begin, as they say. Interesting. Yeah. I read the book how he was, he had such a facility to learn language that he learned Russian pretty quick. And he had other languages. Just one of those people that just could start picking that up. Me work like hell, and I can’t have one conversation, but somebody like that, they just pick it up. I understand he picked up Russian pretty quick, too. Very quickly, and to this day, speaks it pretty well. And that got him some cachet. [14:30] But that only goes so far because, Gary, these guys that come in at a low level and aren’t Russian are really just mules. And that’s really what Jimmy was. He was a mule. Mark’s specialty was Czech forgery. and check washing. And he taught Jimmy how to take envelopes and get checks out of them, change who the check was written to or the amount that the check was drawn for, and go to various banks and cash those checks. And Mark was a pro at it. He had equipment to do it. He knew how the scam worked. He knew that you don’t go to the same bank three days in a row. You go to a couple of different banks and that’s how they got by day to day. [15:18] Interesting. Yeah, I worked one of those little scams once, a little group of people that were doing that. They could have a process that can wash some of the ink off of a check and then put and change the amount and those kinds of things. They’d work, they’d go to grocery stores on paydays. People used to take their grocery, their checks to put grocery stores on paydays plus banks. So it’s a pretty good moneymaker that needs little guys like this to go out and cash the checks while the bad guy sits back and provides the checks and takes most of the money. So it’s interesting. Yeah. And that’s exactly what Jimmy was, the little guy that cashed the check. [15:57] I want to interject something here. Now, Mark was, as Jimmy said, he looked like a Russian mobster. He was a Russian mobster. However, what Jimmy didn’t realize is that the whole family, or most of the family, was involved. Mark’s uncle, Meyer ITF, also known as Mike, was a very prominent figure in the Russian mob in Los Angeles. The fans were very aware of him. He was, shall we say, a big shot. He was the godfather of Plumber Park here. He was the guy. Jimmy didn’t know that. He just knew about Mark. As you know in the book, sooner or later it becomes a situation involving a fortune in gold and smuggled MDMA that puts Meyer in federal custody. Meyer wants out of federal custody. Mark not only is a Russian mobster doing bank fraud, he’s also an FBI informant and a DEA informant and an informant of the Pasadena Police Department. [17:07] Frank says, according to the menu at a Chinese restaurant, going from column A to column B, how do I get my uncle out of prison? Solve a murder. Oh, what’s the easiest way to solve a murder? Plan it. Set it up. Blame it on someone, like maybe Jimmy. Final result, I’ll tell you, Meyer got out of prison. Jimmy went to prison. [17:36] Wow, that’s a hell of a story. Frank can give me more insight on that process, but that’s the short form on how this all winds up fitting together. Yeah, and you guys, when you went back, you had to go back. Could you be able to pull she had transcripts from the court so you could find out who testified were able to get any more information police department’s notorious for not allowing reports to go out i can’t even get them out of my own but and i bet it was really bad on that how did how’d you go about that how’d you start digging into this and get your first clues that you can tell you about trying to talk to the items about this yeah yeah so it’s like an onion i i look at it like that and we had early on kelly shared with us some of the trial transcripts so that’s pretty good yeah there’s a lot of information in there and it and within the trial transcripts there’s names and and dates and so we started picking at it and early on you know we couldn’t get cooperation from any of [18:40] the mobsters yeah we didn’t get cooperation from the fbi or the dea We were able to do some digging. [18:48] And I think the digging led to a congressional hearing on the Russian mob back in the early 90s. And Meyer Itev’s name pops up in that hearing. So from there, I started digging through federal court files using PACER and came across all kinds of court documents involving Mike and then his nephew for various scams they were involved in. [19:21] And then taking those court documents and continuing to research and talk to people and figure it out, we were able to lay it all out. It took us six years to do this, but lay out a narrative of who’s Mike, who’s Mark, who are they involved with, and what kind of things were they operating when Jimmy got involved. And where was everybody when this murder took place? And what we found out was that Mike was in federal custody and had been charged with involvement in a scheme to steal gold from a place in Massachusetts. And how the scheme worked is Mike and his buddy posed as government scientists who were building a nuclear reactor facility in a run-down apartment in Pasadena, California. And they were able to put in purchase orders for the gold and have it delivered to this apartment. And only when one of them misspelled sergeant on the P.O. And sent a fake check did the government catch on and arrest him. [20:37] When they brought him in and charged him with this, the first thing that these guys wanted to do was figure out how they could get out of it. They hooked up with a guy in Hollywood who was involved in a scheme. Yeah. To dissuade a reporter from writing about the actor Steven Seagal. And this guy, his name is Alex Proctor, went to Meijer and another man in our book, Daniel Patterson, and said, listen, can you help me? I need to knock off this reporter. [21:12] Daniel, as you’ll see from reading our book, is a pretty well-connected guy. He’s done some pretty interesting stuff, but murder was the limit of what he would do for anybody. He began to peel back some of the layers of that onion for authorities in that case. And that led to Meyer being in custody. And that was the catalyst for Mark and his other uncle, Gary, to try to figure out how can we get him out? And they believed that the government would let Meyer out of custody if they could inform on a big enough crime. Big enough crime probably wouldn’t be a burglary or a low-level assault or a battery. It had to be something significant. And then this murder happens. Wow. How did they choose this victim? I don’t know necessarily that they chose him, but this guy lived in the neighborhood where Mark and Jimmy hung out, and they essentially manipulated him into believing he was going to have sex with Jimmy’s girlfriend. And then manipulated Jimmy into thinking that, hey, this guy’s going to have sex with your girlfriend. Aren’t you upset by that? Doesn’t that piss you off? Don’t you think you should be a man and do something about it? Yeah. [22:39] Hormones, jealousy, rage, greed. It’s like there’s everything like comes together in this one moment. And we end up with this guy, Alex, who’s a school teacher, just ends up dying. [22:55] So they got motive and means and opportunity. They can manipulate Jimmy into providing all those for the investigated officers. Yep. Yeah. Wow. And, you know, and what, and what really the thing that really, I think, so there’s this event that happens and there’s a, there’s like part of this, there’s a locked door mystery that investigators encounter. But the other part of it is how after the crime, Jimmy was arrested. [23:27] Manipulated into going to a hotel as a hideout that was arranged for him by Mark and Gary Iteve. And as soon as Jimmy’s in the hotel, they park themselves outside and guide the police to the hideout where they arrest Jimmy and his girlfriend. I think I read that initially, after the school teacher was dead, they got in, was it Pasadena? One of the police departments got an anonymous call giving up the body, where it was, the murder, and the suspect. Only one anonymous call. And then they, and then, oh, my God, this was heinous. Let’s mention that locked door. Let’s mention this locked door. This was heinous, heinous. When the police get to the scene of the crime, and they noticed that the apartment does not show any forced entry. Living room, everything, it’s fine. Get to the bedroom, however. The door had been locked from the inside. Jimmy said when he left, he locked the bedroom door from the inside. This is now after the fact. Someone shows up and tries to get in. They can’t because the door’s locked. They want to get in real fast. And they finally get in, practically ripped the doorknob off to get in. [24:50] At the same time, let’s assume it might be the same person, Mark ITM uses the dead man’s telephone to call his lawyer to say, I want to report a murder that we could use to get my uncle out of prison. [25:07] Using the dead guy’s phone. Then after they arrange that, he cuts the wires and leaves. Also wiping the door, the doorknob clean. His fingerprints are in there because he acknowledges he was in the bedroom earlier when Jimmy put the unconscious, still-breathing fellow on the bed. [25:29] He leaves. Mark left, went out and told the girl. Jimmy killed the guy. But when he left, the guy was alive, breathing on the bed. He says, come down after in a minute. So then he tells the girl, we got to go because we’re going to get in trouble with the cops. What are we going to do? So it was a real mess. So to say, who killed this guy? Jimmy had to take full responsibility because he confessed to protect his girlfriend. Also, he felt bad about putting the guy to headlock and throw the old drunk guy to the ground anyway. But then again, how did Mark make a phone call to his lawyer and the dead man’s phone after all that happened? And after the doors ripped open in the apartment to the bedroom. Did he find the guy already dead? Or did he have to help finish the process? Legally, he was found not guilty. Mark was. Just like OJ was. Because did OJ do it? Did OJ not do it? Did he cover for his son? Whatever. But legally, he was not guilty. Same thing with Mark. Not guilty. Jimmy, guilty. Whether we killed him or not. [26:45] We can’t say. We weren’t there. Crazy. Crazy, isn’t it? [26:52] What other kinds of things was this crime family, this Russian mob family? It’s like a family. I’ve read about these. They’ll have that one strong man, and then you’ll have a group that kind of emanates out from that, but yet they’re not part of some larger group. They stand on their own. And so what else, what other kind of crimes were they involved in? Was this talking about MMDA being smuggled into those that’s a party? Rave kind of clubs yeah they one of the things that they did was make a counterfeit viagra one of the guys had a uh an idea to he bought some viagra and he had a plan to set up pharmacies where he could like order viagra through the pharmacy and like with the gas tax right don’t pay anybody have the viagra and sell it and then one of the other guys said that’s a waste of time I got a pill press. Just all we got to do is get the chemicals or some chemicals and put them together and press a bunch of Viagra pills and then we can sell thousands instead of tens. [27:54] And then the gold scheme, which we mentioned, and the MA, the list goes on and on. And within the community of the Russian diaspora, extortion, loan sharking, gambling, prostitution, all those means of making money were on the table and being used. They were familiar with the casinos here in LA, familiar with the how to operate prostitution rings and advertise the services. Very sophisticated group of guys. [28:29] Did they have a geographic area in which they were kind of like the ruling group? [28:35] So that’s the funny thing about LA. And we talk about this a little bit in the book, that LA’s never really had like a mob family. There’s no five families here. If you go back to the 1940s and 50s, there was a guy named Mickey Cohen, who was a mobster here in LA and with help started the casinos in Vegas. But there’s no turf here In LA, if you’re going to set up an operation You’ve got to find a way to work with some of the other mobs In Los Angeles, the Mexican mafia is very prominent And their operation is run out of the jails That’s where their leadership is in the jail and prison system And the soldiers are on the street And that’s where the drugs and prostitution are distributed at street level, operated from the jails. Guys like Meyer or people operating within those turfs, they got to work with the Mexican mob to make sure that they’re not crossing lines. And we chronicle some of that, especially with the MDMA smuggling in the book. [29:44] Interesting. Wow. Yeah. LA’s not really had that, like you said, that five families each has a geographic territory or even had one family, a guy named Jack Dragna, but it was really, it was open. LA was open city. We had a guy from Kansas City went out there in the 50s and fell in with some people out there. And, of course, from Tony Splatro and that Jimmy Fradiano, Jimmy Fradiano, these people from Chicago had some action going down in L.A., but no one mob family controlled L.A. And it’s spread out that you’ve got these neighborhoods over the place that I just wonder if they’re like a Brighton Beach kind of a place that where a lot of Russians had settled in. That was their neighborhood, at least where they did. They all live in one neighborhood. So, yeah, West Hollywood has a Russian enclave. And then there’s a park there called Plummer Park. That’s a gathering place for Russians in the neighborhood to get together and play chess and talk about what’s going on. I live in a neighborhood that has its own little enclave of Armenian mobsters. And their hangout is a donut shop. Yes, I’ve seen that here I have I was at a Starbucks up by the airport And I see these guys all ganged up together And they look like. [31:03] They’re Italians. They look like down at the social club down in the North End. I was retired by then. So I look at these guys. I call a friend of mine back down the intelligence unit. I say, I see these guys and here’s one of their license plates and it’s some kind of a limo service. And so, yeah, that’s our Albanian gangsters. They all hang out there at that Starbucks and then they go to the airport. They have these different things. They haul drug dealers back and forth. We are on to them. [31:29] That’s great interesting people ask Frank and I how is it that you get guys from the Russian mall or the fact with Betrayal in Blue who was a drug cartel guy or guys from the American mafia how do you get them to cooperate with you when you write these books I would like to stand whose name I can never pronounce with a whole section about the Russian mob, where he talks openly about it. And he says, because they trust us and anybody else, they want their story told truthfully. This is their legacy. They don’t want a bunch of BS about them in a book. If it’s been over seven years, they could talk about it. Unless it’s bank robbery, then it’s 10 years. We always tell them, don’t talk about anything you can be arrested for. Although, we’ll appreciate this because you’re doing this podcast. I was doing one, had this guest on, and all of a sudden he’s just talking about killing somebody. [32:35] I said, you can tell I’m kind of getting upset. Turns to his lawyers, he goes, what’s the statute of limitations on murder? Murder. Oh, my God. There isn’t one. Shut up. I have told guys that. I said, I’ll tell you something, dude. Do not tell me something I can’t live with. You can talk to me, but do not tell me something I can’t live with. You cannot trust me if you tell me something I can’t live with. And that’s the main one right there. Fortunately, they trust, People learned that they could trust Frank and I to be honest with them, direct with them, protect them if they need protection. I don’t know about the protection part. I’m not going to protect any. I’m with Jerry. Don’t tell me anything. Well, that’s what I mean. You tell them, don’t cross this line. That’s protection. Please tell them where the guardrails are. Yeah. It’s an interesting thing that we do. I’ve got some guys here and some guys around the country I’ve dealt with. And they reach out to you and they want to tell their story. I wish I could get more of them to want to tell their story. And they want to tell one thing I get criticized for. And it’ll be somebody that’s on YouTube, obviously in the know, and they’ll tell me how I got something wrong. [33:47] You deal with what you got. You deal with the newspaper articles and old court cases and things like that and try to get it right. But you can’t totally get it right. Of course, you don’t get it right as the way somebody else sees it, too. Everybody has a different take on the right story. I found out long ago, if you only rely on law enforcement, you’re not going to get the whole story. No, you got to go. Well, then you’re doing stenography. That’s what I always said. Yeah. Yeah. But it’s hard to get those people to open up, too. Man, it’s. Yeah. I was a reporter for a long time, so I’ve had some practice at it. And I’ve interviewed guys in prison. I’ve interviewed people who pre-arrest, during arrest, post-arrest. [34:26] And I’ve developed a way to talk to people that makes them comfortable. With Adam Diaz that Burrell mentioned in our book, Betrayal in Blue, this guy is a South American cartel member dealing cocaine in the United States. He went on the record and talked about his life doing that. [34:47] And the same thing in this book with Daniel Patterson. Daniel is quite a colorful character. And I interviewed him over five or six weekends about everything that he was involved in, up to and including the stuff that he did with the ITEVs. [35:04] Now, Daniel Patterson, explain who he was to the Russians. Sure. He’s basically a conduit for the Russians. He’s a guy who knew how to make money more legitimately than they did. He had the pill press. he explained the gold scam how to operate the gold scam how to write po’s how to like add a veneer of legitimacy to their business and and make more money by doing that yeah it’s like the scam emails you get you see the misspelled words they greet you in some archaic way this is a scam this guy could take all that out of it and right i always love it without warning people i want to worm. If the woman on the dating site says, I am so-and-so by name, they’re Nigerian. But if you tell them that, then all the Nigerians will stop telling them, I’ll stop using that. But if it says, I am Sally by name, they’re Nigerian. Even if they say they live in your hometown, they’re Nigerian. Good clue. Good clue. You guys hear that out there? [36:12] Yeah listen closely when you trip to one of these emails or one of these online things and you start talking to them they say my name is sally my name is nigerian hang up, how’s everything in nigerian click yeah. [36:31] Guys, I didn’t expect to get that kind of a great clue for my guys out there, but that’s a good one. I didn’t really realize that one myself. Yeah, I am Sally by name. Here’s your clue. Watch out. I was talking to a guy once, a friend of mine. He was talking about some girl that he met online, of course, through Facebook. And he said, she told me she just thought I looked interesting and sounded interesting from my Facebook. And I said, what’d she do? He said, I think she’s legitimate. I said, what’d she do? She’s an entrepreneur. I said, dude, dude. On. Dude. Model and entrepreneur. Yeah. [37:10] Okay. This has been great. Frank Girardeau and Burl Baer. B-A-R-E-R. Yes. And guys, I’ll have links to these books, all of their books. This book is A Taste for Murder, and they have Actually, this book is Where Murder Lies. Oh, I’m sorry. Okay. Oh, yeah. All right. Let me start. I’ll edit this. Their book is Where Murder Lies. And they also have one called A Taste for Murder, Betrayal in Blue, and Burned. So those are all three great true crime books. And I will have links to them in the show notes, guys. Thanks so much. Merle and Frank, I really appreciate you coming on. It’s really interesting. And Owen, if you buy the book, review the book. Say something nice about it. If you don’t like it, keep your mouth shut. Don’t give me one of those one-star reviews or I’m coming for you. You can’t trust those. [38:08] Thank you, Gary. All right. Thank you. All right. I’ll send, I don’t know, do I have your emails or do I have the publicist’s email? I got somebody’s email. Sometimes I never get your guys’ email. You got Vine, you got Frank, you got them both. All right. I’ll send you a link whenever I get this. It’ll probably be a month or more before I actually get this up. I would stay way ahead. Okay, good. Okay. All right. Talk to you soon. Same thing I can ever do for you here in Kansas City while you get on these stories or something. Hey, I’m in Missouri. I haven’t used to Missouri. I’m in Houston, Missouri. You what? I’m in Houston, Missouri. Oh, are you? Yeah, Texas County, Missouri. Oh, Texas County. Yeah, that’s way down south. That’s down south. I’m in the Ozarks. Yeah. Okay. That’s why I grew the goatee. Okay. All right. All right. Thanks, guys. Bye-bye. Bye.
Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides' classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.
Please support TORCH at GiveTORCH.net. Thank you for your partnership in expanding our Jewish programming!In this episode launching Sefer Vayikra, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe contrasts the themes of the Torah books: Bereishit (family of Israel), Shemot (nation of Israel), Vayikra (holiness/spirituality of Israel), Bamidbar (travels of Israel), and Devarim (review). He highlights the small aleph in "Vayikra" as Moshe's humble choice to downplay his frequent divine calls (Vayikar = "it happened" vs. summoned), and Moshe's refusal to enter the Ohel Moed until explicitly called—teaching intentional Judaism: acts must be purposeful, not rote habit. Prayer, tefillin, and mitzvot lose depth when mechanical; they require Kavanah (focus/intention) and simplicity ("I'm doing this because Hashem commanded it").The Parsha's Korbanot (offerings) begin with voluntary ones, including the Olah (elevation/burnt offering) that atones for missed mitzvot—going beyond Teshuvah (repentance/apology) by repairing the relationship to an elevated state. Today, reciting the Korbanot in Tefillah substitutes for actual offerings, restoring closeness. Rabbi Wolbe stresses avoiding mundane habit in all areas (marriage, parenting, Avodah): invest freshness, intention, and growth (e.g., date your spouse, spotlight children's strengths). As Pesach approaches, prepare an intentional Seder—make it personally meaningful, not just childhood repetition. Chazak on completing Shemot; now enter the realm of kedushah with purpose._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 20, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Vayakhel, #Pekudei, #Kiyor, #MirrorsOfTheLegions, #JewishWomen, #PotentialUnlock, #Mothers, #WashAwayDoubt, #ShabbosPrep, #JewishMothers, #UnlimitedPotential, #MussarLessons ★ Support this podcast ★
Please support TORCH at GiveTORCH.net. Thank you for your partnership in expanding our Jewish programming!In this episode launching Sefer Vayikra, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe contrasts the themes of the Torah books: Bereishit (family of Israel), Shemot (nation of Israel), Vayikra (holiness/spirituality of Israel), Bamidbar (travels of Israel), and Devarim (review). He highlights the small aleph in "Vayikra" as Moshe's humble choice to downplay his frequent divine calls (Vayikar = "it happened" vs. summoned), and Moshe's refusal to enter the Ohel Moed until explicitly called—teaching intentional Judaism: acts must be purposeful, not rote habit. Prayer, tefillin, and mitzvot lose depth when mechanical; they require Kavanah (focus/intention) and simplicity ("I'm doing this because Hashem commanded it").The Parsha's Korbanot (offerings) begin with voluntary ones, including the Olah (elevation/burnt offering) that atones for missed mitzvot—going beyond Teshuvah (repentance/apology) by repairing the relationship to an elevated state. Today, reciting the Korbanot in Tefillah substitutes for actual offerings, restoring closeness. Rabbi Wolbe stresses avoiding mundane habit in all areas (marriage, parenting, Avodah): invest freshness, intention, and growth (e.g., date your spouse, spotlight children's strengths). As Pesach approaches, prepare an intentional Seder—make it personally meaningful, not just childhood repetition. Chazak on completing Shemot; now enter the realm of kedushah with purpose._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 20, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Vayakhel, #Pekudei, #Kiyor, #MirrorsOfTheLegions, #JewishWomen, #PotentialUnlock, #Mothers, #WashAwayDoubt, #ShabbosPrep, #JewishMothers, #UnlimitedPotential, #MussarLessons ★ Support this podcast ★
In Day 133 (p. 751 in the Treasure for Life edition), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Flattery (Sha'ar HaChanufah), focusing on its dangers in leadership and relationships. A righteous man tests two suitors for his daughter by staging a quarrel and asking their judgment: one flatters to win favor, the other honestly rebukes—the honest one is chosen, as flattery corrupts trust. Leaders (Parnas/community head, Dayan/judge, Gabbai Tzedakah/charity distributor) must never flatter, lest the community follows evil paths, litigants feel silenced, or charity goes undeservedly—flattery undermines justice and reproof.The worst flattery is enabling sin (e.g., encouraging transgressions like illicit relations or fraud by normalizing them—"it's not a big deal, join me"). Positive examples include flattering a wife for Shalom Bayit (genuine compliments to build harmony) and Yiravam ben Nevat's merit for rebuking Shlomo (without flattery) on the Milo construction. Rabbi Wolbe stresses: do good deeds purely L'shem Shamayim (for Heaven's sake), not to impress; distance from flattery entirely; and rebuke wisely when possible—flattery validates evil, closes Teshuvah doors, and corrupts society._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 12, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 15, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Flattery, #Chanufa, #Praising, #Rebuke, #LashonHara, #StandUpForTruth, #Ramchal, #ZealForTorah ★ Support this podcast ★
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