Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin https://tbeboca.podbean.com Each episode of Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin will pose an essential question and invite a conversation with remarkable people in the Jewish world and in our community to consider what those questions and answers mean. Wed, 27 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Temple Beth El of Boca Raton, 2023 All rights reserved. Religion & Spirituality:Judaism 1440 episodic Temple Beth El of Boca Raton Temple Beth El of Boca Raton No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/15796798/Podcast_logo_1__5bv5ff.jpg Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin https://tbeboca.podbean.com 144 144 What Does it Take to Renew a Jewish Community? with Rabbi Michael Paley What Does it Take to Renew a Jewish Community? with Rabbi Michael Paley https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-take-to-renew-a-jewish-community-with-rabbi-michael-paley/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-take-to-renew-a-jewish-community-with-rabbi-michael-paley/#comments Wed, 27 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/ab816e68-9822-3ce9-9280-c8759cba8c04 Rabbi Michael Paley joins Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Laila Haas to explore how renewal in Jewish life takes shape through both inner spiritual work and lived experience. Reflecting on his early studies of Islam and physics, he shares how encountering other traditions deepened his own Judaism and expanded his sense of spiritual curiosity.

Rabbi Paley was drawn to Budapest, where the legacy of the Holocaust left a community marked by silence, survival, and hidden identity. There, he met individuals only discovering their Jewishness later in life and communities slowly finding their way back to tradition.

Through stories, study, and reflection, this conversation looks at what it means to build Jewish life as creators rather than consumers—and what renewal can look like in places where so much was nearly lost.

]]> Rabbi Michael Paley joins Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Laila Haas to explore how renewal in Jewish life takes shape through both inner spiritual work and lived experience. Reflecting on his early studies of Islam and physics, he shares how encountering other traditions deepened his own Judaism and expanded his sense of spiritual curiosity.

Rabbi Paley was drawn to Budapest, where the legacy of the Holocaust left a community marked by silence, survival, and hidden identity. There, he met individuals only discovering their Jewishness later in life and communities slowly finding their way back to tradition.

Through stories, study, and reflection, this conversation looks at what it means to build Jewish life as creators rather than consumers—and what renewal can look like in places where so much was nearly lost.

]]> Rabbi Michael Paley joins Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Laila Haas to explore how renewal in Jewish life takes shape through both inner spiritual work and lived experience. Reflecting on his early studies of Islam and physics, he shares how encountering other traditions deepened his own Judaism and expanded his sense of spiritual curiosity. Rabbi Paley was drawn to Budapest, where the legacy of the Holocaust left a community marked by silence, survival, and hidden identity. There, he met individuals only discovering their Jewishness later in life and communities slowly finding their way back to tradition. Through stories, study, and reflection, this conversation looks at what it means to build Jewish life as creators rather than consumers—and what renewal can look like in places where so much was nearly lost. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2856 6 39 full What's it Like to be a Persian Jew? with Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh What's it Like to be a Persian Jew? with Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/whats-it-like-to-be-a-persian-jew-with-rabbi-tarlan-rabizadeh/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/whats-it-like-to-be-a-persian-jew-with-rabbi-tarlan-rabizadeh/#comments Wed, 13 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/10451d41-2b1d-3613-b44e-257f9327a725 Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh joins Rabbi Dan Levin to share her experience growing up between cultures—as the child of Iranian immigrants raised in Los Angeles, and now a rabbi and educator. She talks about the experience of being raised in a Persian Jewish home while also moving through broader American Jewish spaces that didn’t always reflect her background.

The conversation explores what it’s like to navigate different cultural and political perspectives within the Jewish community, and the ways Persian Jews often feel both deeply connected and sometimes misunderstood. Rabbi Rabizadeh speaks about carrying Iran with her in a very real way, even from afar, and how that perspective influences the way she teaches, leads, and connects with others.

From the warmth and energy of Shabbat in a Persian home to the challenges of code-switching between communities, this episode looks at the complexity of Jewish identity across cultures—and what can open up when people take the time to listen and understand one another.

]]> Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh joins Rabbi Dan Levin to share her experience growing up between cultures—as the child of Iranian immigrants raised in Los Angeles, and now a rabbi and educator. She talks about the experience of being raised in a Persian Jewish home while also moving through broader American Jewish spaces that didn’t always reflect her background.

The conversation explores what it’s like to navigate different cultural and political perspectives within the Jewish community, and the ways Persian Jews often feel both deeply connected and sometimes misunderstood. Rabbi Rabizadeh speaks about carrying Iran with her in a very real way, even from afar, and how that perspective influences the way she teaches, leads, and connects with others.

From the warmth and energy of Shabbat in a Persian home to the challenges of code-switching between communities, this episode looks at the complexity of Jewish identity across cultures—and what can open up when people take the time to listen and understand one another.

]]> Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh joins Rabbi Dan Levin to share her experience growing up between cultures—as the child of Iranian immigrants raised in Los Angeles, and now a rabbi and educator. She talks about the experience of being raised in a Persian Jewish home while also moving through broader American Jewish spaces that didn’t always reflect her background. The conversation explores what it’s like to navigate different cultural and political perspectives within the Jewish community, and the ways Persian Jews often feel both deeply connected and sometimes misunderstood. Rabbi Rabizadeh speaks about carrying Iran with her in a very real way, even from afar, and how that perspective influences the way she teaches, leads, and connects with others. From the warmth and energy of Shabbat in a Persian home to the challenges of code-switching between communities, this episode looks at the complexity of Jewish identity across cultures—and what can open up when people take the time to listen and understand one another. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2690 6 1 full What Does it Take to Write a Novel? with Andrew Furman What Does it Take to Write a Novel? with Andrew Furman https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-take-to-write-a-novel-with-andrew-furman/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-take-to-write-a-novel-with-andrew-furman/#comments Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:43:24 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/2dc79ee0-51d3-3a75-8b11-207b111bab89 What inspires someone to write a novel, and how do those stories take shape before the writer even knows where they’re going? Rabbi Dan Levin is joined by novelist and FAU professor Andrew Furman for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, uncertainty, and finding a voice. Furman reflects on being drawn to Jewish literature as a reader while taking a different path as a writer, often working on the margins of what was being published and expected.

Together, they explore enduring questions about writing: how much comes from personal experience, whether a writer needs an extraordinary life to tell meaningful stories, and what it means to write with genuine curiosity. Furman shares how passion for the subject and attention to the inner lives of characters can draw readers into experiences that feel deeply familiar, even when they are not their own.

The episode also looks at the writing process itself: planning versus discovery, resisting self-censorship, and allowing larger themes to emerge over time. Along the way, Rabbi Dan connects fiction to the layered way we read Jewish texts, and to the power of stories to create empathy across distance and difference. At its heart, this conversation asks why novels matter, and what they awaken in us when we read and write them.

]]> What inspires someone to write a novel, and how do those stories take shape before the writer even knows where they’re going? Rabbi Dan Levin is joined by novelist and FAU professor Andrew Furman for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, uncertainty, and finding a voice. Furman reflects on being drawn to Jewish literature as a reader while taking a different path as a writer, often working on the margins of what was being published and expected.

Together, they explore enduring questions about writing: how much comes from personal experience, whether a writer needs an extraordinary life to tell meaningful stories, and what it means to write with genuine curiosity. Furman shares how passion for the subject and attention to the inner lives of characters can draw readers into experiences that feel deeply familiar, even when they are not their own.

The episode also looks at the writing process itself: planning versus discovery, resisting self-censorship, and allowing larger themes to emerge over time. Along the way, Rabbi Dan connects fiction to the layered way we read Jewish texts, and to the power of stories to create empathy across distance and difference. At its heart, this conversation asks why novels matter, and what they awaken in us when we read and write them.

]]> What inspires someone to write a novel, and how do those stories take shape before the writer even knows where they’re going? Rabbi Dan Levin is joined by novelist and FAU professor Andrew Furman for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, uncertainty, and finding a voice. Furman reflects on being drawn to Jewish literature as a reader while taking a different path as a writer, often working on the margins of what was being published and expected. Together, they explore enduring questions about writing: how much comes from personal experience, whether a writer needs an extraordinary life to tell meaningful stories, and what it means to write with genuine curiosity. Furman shares how passion for the subject and attention to the inner lives of characters can draw readers into experiences that feel deeply familiar, even when they are not their own. The episode also looks at the writing process itself: planning versus discovery, resisting self-censorship, and allowing larger themes to emerge over time. Along the way, Rabbi Dan connects fiction to the layered way we read Jewish texts, and to the power of stories to create empathy across distance and difference. At its heart, this conversation asks why novels matter, and what they awaken in us when we read and write them. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2698 5 38 full What Is the Future of Jewish Education? with Heather Erez, Director of Youth and Family Education and Engagement What Is the Future of Jewish Education? with Heather Erez, Director of Youth and Family Education and Engagement https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-future-of-jewish-education-with-heather-erez-director-of-youth-and-family-education-and-engagement/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-future-of-jewish-education-with-heather-erez-director-of-youth-and-family-education-and-engagement/#comments Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:42:51 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/49acde4c-c2ab-3773-a773-09bc6403c096 What will it take to shape a Jewish education that kids actually want to come back to? Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Heather Erez, Temple Beth El’s Director of Youth and Family Education and Engagement, whose own Jewish journey began in summer camps, youth groups, and a transformative year in Israel. They explore how meaningful, relevant, and joy-filled Jewish learning can ignite a lifelong connection. Drawing from her experiences on a kibbutz, at HUC, and working with college students seeking safe Jewish spaces, Heather shares what truly inspires young people to lean in.

Together, they tackle the big question: how do you build a program that matters when you only have a few hours a week and learners come with wildly different levels of interest? Heather argues that the future isn’t about rote learning—it’s about belonging. It’s interactive experiences over textbooks, community over content, and giving kids and parents tools that help Judaism show up in real life, from the classroom to the car ride home.

As Jewish education faces a rapidly changing world, especially after October 7th, Heather sees the path forward as adaptive, relational, and deeply purpose-driven. This episode digs into how we help kids understand why Hebrew and b’nai mitzvah matter, how we create spaces that feel safe and joyful, and how we build a Jewish future rooted not in obligation, but in connection and meaning.

]]> What will it take to shape a Jewish education that kids actually want to come back to? Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Heather Erez, Temple Beth El’s Director of Youth and Family Education and Engagement, whose own Jewish journey began in summer camps, youth groups, and a transformative year in Israel. They explore how meaningful, relevant, and joy-filled Jewish learning can ignite a lifelong connection. Drawing from her experiences on a kibbutz, at HUC, and working with college students seeking safe Jewish spaces, Heather shares what truly inspires young people to lean in.

Together, they tackle the big question: how do you build a program that matters when you only have a few hours a week and learners come with wildly different levels of interest? Heather argues that the future isn’t about rote learning—it’s about belonging. It’s interactive experiences over textbooks, community over content, and giving kids and parents tools that help Judaism show up in real life, from the classroom to the car ride home.

As Jewish education faces a rapidly changing world, especially after October 7th, Heather sees the path forward as adaptive, relational, and deeply purpose-driven. This episode digs into how we help kids understand why Hebrew and b’nai mitzvah matter, how we create spaces that feel safe and joyful, and how we build a Jewish future rooted not in obligation, but in connection and meaning.

]]> What will it take to shape a Jewish education that kids actually want to come back to? Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Heather Erez, Temple Beth El’s Director of Youth and Family Education and Engagement, whose own Jewish journey began in summer camps, youth groups, and a transformative year in Israel. They explore how meaningful, relevant, and joy-filled Jewish learning can ignite a lifelong connection. Drawing from her experiences on a kibbutz, at HUC, and working with college students seeking safe Jewish spaces, Heather shares what truly inspires young people to lean in. Together, they tackle the big question: how do you build a program that matters when you only have a few hours a week and learners come with wildly different levels of interest? Heather argues that the future isn’t about rote learning—it’s about belonging. It’s interactive experiences over textbooks, community over content, and giving kids and parents tools that help Judaism show up in real life, from the classroom to the car ride home. As Jewish education faces a rapidly changing world, especially after October 7th, Heather sees the path forward as adaptive, relational, and deeply purpose-driven. This episode digs into how we help kids understand why Hebrew and b’nai mitzvah matter, how we create spaces that feel safe and joyful, and how we build a Jewish future rooted not in obligation, but in connection and meaning. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3100 5 37 full How Does Reform Judaism Shape Jewish Identity Today? with Rabbi Michael Marmur How Does Reform Judaism Shape Jewish Identity Today? with Rabbi Michael Marmur https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-does-reform-judaism-shape-jewish-identity-today-with-rabbi-michael-marmur/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-does-reform-judaism-shape-jewish-identity-today-with-rabbi-michael-marmur/#comments Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/26c14b69-c90a-352b-83f5-69efa9afa8cc In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Michael Marmur explore what it means to exist as Jews in the modern world. They look at how Judaism, shaped by specific historical moments, continues to influence the ways we understand identity, purpose, and belonging today.

They discuss the ongoing task within liberal and Reform Judaism: helping people make thoughtful, informed choices about Jewish life rather than relying only on moments of inspiration. This raises questions about how ancient tradition can meet modern sensibilities and how communities cultivate engagement that feels both authentic and accessible.

Along the way, they touch on the quiet concern many share about the movement’s future—whether it will continue to resonate across generations—and how hope, while not a complete answer, still offers grounding and encouragement. Drawing on ideas from thinkers like Abraham Joshua Heschel, the conversation considers how knowledge, intention, and the moments that move the spirit can shape a meaningful Jewish life today.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Michael Marmur explore what it means to exist as Jews in the modern world. They look at how Judaism, shaped by specific historical moments, continues to influence the ways we understand identity, purpose, and belonging today.

They discuss the ongoing task within liberal and Reform Judaism: helping people make thoughtful, informed choices about Jewish life rather than relying only on moments of inspiration. This raises questions about how ancient tradition can meet modern sensibilities and how communities cultivate engagement that feels both authentic and accessible.

Along the way, they touch on the quiet concern many share about the movement’s future—whether it will continue to resonate across generations—and how hope, while not a complete answer, still offers grounding and encouragement. Drawing on ideas from thinkers like Abraham Joshua Heschel, the conversation considers how knowledge, intention, and the moments that move the spirit can shape a meaningful Jewish life today.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Michael Marmur explore what it means to exist as Jews in the modern world. They look at how Judaism, shaped by specific historical moments, continues to influence the ways we understand identity, purpose, and belonging today. They discuss the ongoing task within liberal and Reform Judaism: helping people make thoughtful, informed choices about Jewish life rather than relying only on moments of inspiration. This raises questions about how ancient tradition can meet modern sensibilities and how communities cultivate engagement that feels both authentic and accessible. Along the way, they touch on the quiet concern many share about the movement’s future—whether it will continue to resonate across generations—and how hope, while not a complete answer, still offers grounding and encouragement. Drawing on ideas from thinkers like Abraham Joshua Heschel, the conversation considers how knowledge, intention, and the moments that move the spirit can shape a meaningful Jewish life today. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2913 5 36 full How Do Jewish Values Guide us in Today’s Immigration Crisis? with Rabbi Sarah Bassin and Bill Gerstein How Do Jewish Values Guide us in Today’s Immigration Crisis? with Rabbi Sarah Bassin and Bill Gerstein https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-jewish-values-guide-us-in-today-s-immigration-crisis-with-rabbi-sarah-bassin-and-bill-gerstein/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-jewish-values-guide-us-in-today-s-immigration-crisis-with-rabbi-sarah-bassin-and-bill-gerstein/#comments Wed, 26 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/f694d585-c3b5-37bc-8631-562a878bd678 What draws Jews to stand with immigrants—and what does our tradition demand of us? In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Sarah Bassin of HIAS and immigration attorney Bill Gerstein about Judaism’s call to protect both neighbor and stranger, the Jewish memory of being outsiders, and the need to resist the dehumanization of those seeking safety.

They break down how immigration has changed: deportation is used more readily, legal pathways have narrowed, and becoming a citizen now requires navigating complex systems of sponsorship, the diversity lottery, and increasingly limited asylum options. They also address how people become undocumented and how often their nonviolent circumstances don’t match the severity of the penalties they face.

The guests highlight the critical work Jewish communities do to support newcomers through job assistance, training, and advocacy—rooted in the legacy of Jewish refugees once denied refuge themselves. Their conversation asks what it means, today, to make room for human dignity within a strained immigration system.

]]> What draws Jews to stand with immigrants—and what does our tradition demand of us? In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Sarah Bassin of HIAS and immigration attorney Bill Gerstein about Judaism’s call to protect both neighbor and stranger, the Jewish memory of being outsiders, and the need to resist the dehumanization of those seeking safety.

They break down how immigration has changed: deportation is used more readily, legal pathways have narrowed, and becoming a citizen now requires navigating complex systems of sponsorship, the diversity lottery, and increasingly limited asylum options. They also address how people become undocumented and how often their nonviolent circumstances don’t match the severity of the penalties they face.

The guests highlight the critical work Jewish communities do to support newcomers through job assistance, training, and advocacy—rooted in the legacy of Jewish refugees once denied refuge themselves. Their conversation asks what it means, today, to make room for human dignity within a strained immigration system.

]]> What draws Jews to stand with immigrants—and what does our tradition demand of us? In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Sarah Bassin of HIAS and immigration attorney Bill Gerstein about Judaism’s call to protect both neighbor and stranger, the Jewish memory of being outsiders, and the need to resist the dehumanization of those seeking safety. They break down how immigration has changed: deportation is used more readily, legal pathways have narrowed, and becoming a citizen now requires navigating complex systems of sponsorship, the diversity lottery, and increasingly limited asylum options. They also address how people become undocumented and how often their nonviolent circumstances don’t match the severity of the penalties they face. The guests highlight the critical work Jewish communities do to support newcomers through job assistance, training, and advocacy—rooted in the legacy of Jewish refugees once denied refuge themselves. Their conversation asks what it means, today, to make room for human dignity within a strained immigration system. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2926 5 35 full What Is It Like to Be a Jewish Member of the U.S. Congress? with Representative Jared Moskowitz What Is It Like to Be a Jewish Member of the U.S. Congress? with Representative Jared Moskowitz https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-jewish-member-of-the-us-congress-with-representative-jared-moskowitz/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-a-jewish-member-of-the-us-congress-with-representative-jared-moskowitz/#comments Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/17dfb1a8-2ac4-3c9a-ab34-ac7f5ad54674 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz to explore how his Jewish upbringing shaped his path into public service and his commitment to engaging across political divides. He reflects on the values that drive many Jews to work for a better world and why seeking common ground remains essential, even in polarized times.

Rep. Moskowitz offers a candid look at the challenges of serving in Congress today—from deepening division and dehumanization to the rise of antisemitism and misinformation about Israel. He discusses what it’s like to be a Jewish member of the House, and how Israel’s emergence as a wedge issue complicates both policy and public perception.

Amid these difficulties, he shares what keeps him grounded: making a tangible difference for constituents and finding moments of hope in a fractured political landscape.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz to explore how his Jewish upbringing shaped his path into public service and his commitment to engaging across political divides. He reflects on the values that drive many Jews to work for a better world and why seeking common ground remains essential, even in polarized times.

Rep. Moskowitz offers a candid look at the challenges of serving in Congress today—from deepening division and dehumanization to the rise of antisemitism and misinformation about Israel. He discusses what it’s like to be a Jewish member of the House, and how Israel’s emergence as a wedge issue complicates both policy and public perception.

Amid these difficulties, he shares what keeps him grounded: making a tangible difference for constituents and finding moments of hope in a fractured political landscape.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with U.S. Representative Jared Moskowitz to explore how his Jewish upbringing shaped his path into public service and his commitment to engaging across political divides. He reflects on the values that drive many Jews to work for a better world and why seeking common ground remains essential, even in polarized times. Rep. Moskowitz offers a candid look at the challenges of serving in Congress today—from deepening division and dehumanization to the rise of antisemitism and misinformation about Israel. He discusses what it’s like to be a Jewish member of the House, and how Israel’s emergence as a wedge issue complicates both policy and public perception. Amid these difficulties, he shares what keeps him grounded: making a tangible difference for constituents and finding moments of hope in a fractured political landscape. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2277 5 34 full What Is It Like to Be Jewish in the NFL? with Greg Joseph and Mike Tannenbaum What Is It Like to Be Jewish in the NFL? with Greg Joseph and Mike Tannenbaum https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-jewish-in-the-nfl-with-greg-joseph-and-mike-tannenbaum/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-jewish-in-the-nfl-with-greg-joseph-and-mike-tannenbaum/#comments Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/46c0733e-007d-3267-89be-f6819faaa211 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Greg Joseph, one of the NFL’s few Jewish players, and Mike Tannenbaum, former general manager of the New York Jets and executive vice president of the Miami Dolphins. Together, they explore what it means to bring faith, identity, and purpose into the world of professional football.

They talk about how they fell in love with the game, how Judaism shapes their sense of discipline and teamwork, and how they hold the beauty and violence of football at the same time. The conversation also touches on finding belonging in diverse locker rooms, honoring the High Holy Days during the season, and drawing on faith to face moments of challenge and change.

Through their stories, Greg and Mike reflect on how Jewish values of resilience, gratitude, and community guide them on the field and beyond.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Greg Joseph, one of the NFL’s few Jewish players, and Mike Tannenbaum, former general manager of the New York Jets and executive vice president of the Miami Dolphins. Together, they explore what it means to bring faith, identity, and purpose into the world of professional football.

They talk about how they fell in love with the game, how Judaism shapes their sense of discipline and teamwork, and how they hold the beauty and violence of football at the same time. The conversation also touches on finding belonging in diverse locker rooms, honoring the High Holy Days during the season, and drawing on faith to face moments of challenge and change.

Through their stories, Greg and Mike reflect on how Jewish values of resilience, gratitude, and community guide them on the field and beyond.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Greg Joseph, one of the NFL’s few Jewish players, and Mike Tannenbaum, former general manager of the New York Jets and executive vice president of the Miami Dolphins. Together, they explore what it means to bring faith, identity, and purpose into the world of professional football. They talk about how they fell in love with the game, how Judaism shapes their sense of discipline and teamwork, and how they hold the beauty and violence of football at the same time. The conversation also touches on finding belonging in diverse locker rooms, honoring the High Holy Days during the season, and drawing on faith to face moments of challenge and change. Through their stories, Greg and Mike reflect on how Jewish values of resilience, gratitude, and community guide them on the field and beyond. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2749 5 33 full What’s Sacred About Private Equity? with Rodger Krouse What’s Sacred About Private Equity? with Rodger Krouse https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-sacred-about-private-equity-with-rodger-krouse/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-sacred-about-private-equity-with-rodger-krouse/#comments Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/97361fd2-7d84-3dbc-a440-aeaa7f0fff98 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rodger Krouse, co-founder and co-CEO of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., for an illuminating conversation about the world of private equity, and the values that guide it. Together, they explore what it means to “transform vision into reality,” and whether there’s something spiritual about helping people bring their ideas to life.

Rodger shares the story of what drew him and his partner to start a private equity firm, and how discipline, process, and purpose intertwine in his approach to business. The conversation delves into the balance between profitability and principle, how leaders make choices that honor both the company and the people behind it, and what happens when a company just doesn’t work out.

Through moments of reflection and candor, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rodger Krouse uncover how success, ethics, and even failure can reveal deeper truths about human character, responsibility, and the sacredness of enterprise itself.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rodger Krouse, co-founder and co-CEO of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., for an illuminating conversation about the world of private equity, and the values that guide it. Together, they explore what it means to “transform vision into reality,” and whether there’s something spiritual about helping people bring their ideas to life.

Rodger shares the story of what drew him and his partner to start a private equity firm, and how discipline, process, and purpose intertwine in his approach to business. The conversation delves into the balance between profitability and principle, how leaders make choices that honor both the company and the people behind it, and what happens when a company just doesn’t work out.

Through moments of reflection and candor, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rodger Krouse uncover how success, ethics, and even failure can reveal deeper truths about human character, responsibility, and the sacredness of enterprise itself.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rodger Krouse, co-founder and co-CEO of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., for an illuminating conversation about the world of private equity, and the values that guide it. Together, they explore what it means to “transform vision into reality,” and whether there’s something spiritual about helping people bring their ideas to life. Rodger shares the story of what drew him and his partner to start a private equity firm, and how discipline, process, and purpose intertwine in his approach to business. The conversation delves into the balance between profitability and principle, how leaders make choices that honor both the company and the people behind it, and what happens when a company just doesn’t work out. Through moments of reflection and candor, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rodger Krouse uncover how success, ethics, and even failure can reveal deeper truths about human character, responsibility, and the sacredness of enterprise itself. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2764 1 32 full How Has October 7 Changed What It Means to Be Israeli? with Abraham Silver How Has October 7 Changed What It Means to Be Israeli? with Abraham Silver https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-israeli-after-october-7-2023-with-abraham-silver/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-israeli-after-october-7-2023-with-abraham-silver/#comments Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/832d9c5c-1149-3f51-bb6a-b7d4781e8953 In this moving episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Abraham Silver, an American who made Aliyah to Israel to help build the land and strengthen the Jewish people—spiritually and physically.

Abraham shares how his service in the IDF shaped his bond with the State of Israel and recounts his harrowing personal experience on October 7, 2023, when his home was destroyed, and he and his family were displaced. Together, they explore what it means to live in a nation at war, where every soldier is our child and every hostage our family.

Their conversation touches on the unity and resilience of Israelis who see themselves as “one people, one war,” the courage of the younger generation who stepped up to defend their country, and the challenges of raising teenagers as they approach military age. Abraham also reflects on the emotional return of hostages and how Israelis today view their leadership and future.

]]> In this moving episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Abraham Silver, an American who made Aliyah to Israel to help build the land and strengthen the Jewish people—spiritually and physically.

Abraham shares how his service in the IDF shaped his bond with the State of Israel and recounts his harrowing personal experience on October 7, 2023, when his home was destroyed, and he and his family were displaced. Together, they explore what it means to live in a nation at war, where every soldier is our child and every hostage our family.

Their conversation touches on the unity and resilience of Israelis who see themselves as “one people, one war,” the courage of the younger generation who stepped up to defend their country, and the challenges of raising teenagers as they approach military age. Abraham also reflects on the emotional return of hostages and how Israelis today view their leadership and future.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3227 31 full How Do I Welcome the New Year When My Heart Is So Heavy? with Rabbi Ashira Boxman and Rabbi Laila Haas How Do I Welcome the New Year When My Heart Is So Heavy? with Rabbi Ashira Boxman and Rabbi Laila Haas https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-welcome-the-new-year-when-my-heart-is-so-heavy-with-rabbi-ashira-boxman-and-rabbi-laila-haas/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-welcome-the-new-year-when-my-heart-is-so-heavy-with-rabbi-ashira-boxman-and-rabbi-laila-haas/#comments Wed, 17 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/e11ccaad-61f7-3a91-9cc5-085c2848eee3 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbis Ashira Boxman and Laila Haas for a conversation about preparing for the High Holy Days when their hearts feel heavy. Together, they reflect on how they enter the new year with intention, exploring who they are now compared to who they were last year, and how spiritual practices help guide them through that journey.

They share the impact of Temple Beth El’s meaningful Elul rituals that include inviting people into the sanctuary and writing their burdens on rocks to let them go, the importance of quiet reflection, and the shift from being head-focused to heart-focused. The conversation also touches on how ritual creates a structure to hold intention, including a powerful practice of releasing burdens through the symbolic use of stones. Rabbi Dan also opens up about an unexpected part of his High Holy Day preparation — watching Saving Private Ryan, a film that’s come to hold deep meaning for him during this season.

If you’re facing the new year with a heavy heart, this episode offers honesty, insight, and the comfort of shared experience.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbis Ashira Boxman and Laila Haas for a conversation about preparing for the High Holy Days when their hearts feel heavy. Together, they reflect on how they enter the new year with intention, exploring who they are now compared to who they were last year, and how spiritual practices help guide them through that journey.

They share the impact of Temple Beth El’s meaningful Elul rituals that include inviting people into the sanctuary and writing their burdens on rocks to let them go, the importance of quiet reflection, and the shift from being head-focused to heart-focused. The conversation also touches on how ritual creates a structure to hold intention, including a powerful practice of releasing burdens through the symbolic use of stones. Rabbi Dan also opens up about an unexpected part of his High Holy Day preparation — watching Saving Private Ryan, a film that’s come to hold deep meaning for him during this season.

If you’re facing the new year with a heavy heart, this episode offers honesty, insight, and the comfort of shared experience.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbis Ashira Boxman and Laila Haas for a conversation about preparing for the High Holy Days when their hearts feel heavy. Together, they reflect on how they enter the new year with intention, exploring who they are now compared to who they were last year, and how spiritual practices help guide them through that journey. They share the impact of Temple Beth El’s meaningful Elul rituals that include inviting people into the sanctuary and writing their burdens on rocks to let them go, the importance of quiet reflection, and the shift from being head-focused to heart-focused. The conversation also touches on how ritual creates a structure to hold intention, including a powerful practice of releasing burdens through the symbolic use of stones. Rabbi Dan also opens up about an unexpected part of his High Holy Day preparation — watching Saving Private Ryan, a film that’s come to hold deep meaning for him during this season. If you’re facing the new year with a heavy heart, this episode offers honesty, insight, and the comfort of shared experience. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3052 5 1 full What’s Jewish About Books? with Gayle Weiswasser What’s Jewish About Books? with Gayle Weiswasser https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-jewish-about-books-with-gayle-weiswasser/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-jewish-about-books-with-gayle-weiswasser/#comments Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/aa69f501-b189-3ac9-80e5-9954a802e475 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Gayle Weiswasser—book blogger, podcast host, and bookstore owner—about the deep connections between literature and Jewish identity. Together, they explore how stories can cultivate empathy, mirror Torah values, and create powerful emotional bonds with characters whose lives are far from our own. From their favorite reads to the transformative magic of fiction, this conversation delves into how books shape who we are, how being Jewish can shape the way we read, and how the role of books continues to evolve in a world increasingly shaped by technology.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Gayle Weiswasser—book blogger, podcast host, and bookstore owner—about the deep connections between literature and Jewish identity. Together, they explore how stories can cultivate empathy, mirror Torah values, and create powerful emotional bonds with characters whose lives are far from our own. From their favorite reads to the transformative magic of fiction, this conversation delves into how books shape who we are, how being Jewish can shape the way we read, and how the role of books continues to evolve in a world increasingly shaped by technology.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Gayle Weiswasser—book blogger, podcast host, and bookstore owner—about the deep connections between literature and Jewish identity. Together, they explore how stories can cultivate empathy, mirror Torah values, and create powerful emotional bonds with characters whose lives are far from our own. From their favorite reads to the transformative magic of fiction, this conversation delves into how books shape who we are, how being Jewish can shape the way we read, and how the role of books continues to evolve in a world increasingly shaped by technology. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3082 30 full What is it Like to be Jewish on a College Campus? with Maya Harpaz, Rabbi Jonah Zinn and Rabbi Andrea Steinberger What is it Like to be Jewish on a College Campus? with Maya Harpaz, Rabbi Jonah Zinn and Rabbi Andrea Steinberger https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-jewish-on-a-college-campus-with-maya-harpaz-rabbi-jonah-zinn-and-rabbi-andrea-steinberger/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-jewish-on-a-college-campus-with-maya-harpaz-rabbi-jonah-zinn-and-rabbi-andrea-steinberger/#comments Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/024c615c-ff51-3100-b902-f4c6698e1b46 What is it like navigating Jewish identity on a college campus in 2025? Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Maya Harpaz, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, Rabbi Jonah Zinn of University of Florida Hillel, and Rabbi Andrea Steinberger of University of Wisconsin Hillel about how Jewish campus life has shifted, especially after October 7th, 2023. They discuss changes in students' comfort expressing their Jewish identity, strained relationships with non-Jewish peers, and the broader challenges of navigating college life amid rising tensions.

]]> What is it like navigating Jewish identity on a college campus in 2025? Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Maya Harpaz, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, Rabbi Jonah Zinn of University of Florida Hillel, and Rabbi Andrea Steinberger of University of Wisconsin Hillel about how Jewish campus life has shifted, especially after October 7th, 2023. They discuss changes in students' comfort expressing their Jewish identity, strained relationships with non-Jewish peers, and the broader challenges of navigating college life amid rising tensions.

]]> What is it like navigating Jewish identity on a college campus in 2025? Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Maya Harpaz, a senior at the University of Pennsylvania, Rabbi Jonah Zinn of University of Florida Hillel, and Rabbi Andrea Steinberger of University of Wisconsin Hillel about how Jewish campus life has shifted, especially after October 7th, 2023. They discuss changes in students’ comfort expressing their Jewish identity, strained relationships with non-Jewish peers, and the broader challenges of navigating college life amid rising tensions. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2699 4 29 full What Makes Art Jewish? with artists Bonnie Cohen and Zachary Oxman What Makes Art Jewish? with artists Bonnie Cohen and Zachary Oxman https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-makes-art-jewish-with-artists-bonnie-cohen-and-zachary-oxman/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-makes-art-jewish-with-artists-bonnie-cohen-and-zachary-oxman/#comments Wed, 28 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/99cc4346-77e2-3f93-805c-e2db5cc7949d In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with artists Bonnie Cohen and Zachary Oxman, whose works Birkat HaLev and Soaring Wisdom are featured at Temple Beth El’s Schaefer Family Campus. They explore their creative paths, the meaning behind their art, and how Jewish values and identity shape their work—revealing that Jewish art isn’t defined solely by its audience or commissioners, but by the stories and spirit it carries.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with artists Bonnie Cohen and Zachary Oxman, whose works Birkat HaLev and Soaring Wisdom are featured at Temple Beth El’s Schaefer Family Campus. They explore their creative paths, the meaning behind their art, and how Jewish values and identity shape their work—revealing that Jewish art isn’t defined solely by its audience or commissioners, but by the stories and spirit it carries.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with artists Bonnie Cohen and Zachary Oxman, whose works Birkat HaLev and Soaring Wisdom are featured at Temple Beth El’s Schaefer Family Campus. They explore their creative paths, the meaning behind their art, and how Jewish values and identity shape their work—revealing that Jewish art isn’t defined solely by its audience or commissioners, but by the stories and spirit it carries. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2741 4 28 full What Can Wine Teach Us About Spirituality? with Rabbi Alan Litwak What Can Wine Teach Us About Spirituality? with Rabbi Alan Litwak https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-can-wine-teach-us-about-spirituality-with-rabbi-alan-litwak/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-can-wine-teach-us-about-spirituality-with-rabbi-alan-litwak/#comments Wed, 21 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/2ebbb48d-d99c-38ea-b913-9c1d348922de In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbi Alan Litwick of Temple Sinai in North Miami Beach for a discussion about the deep connections between wine, spirituality, and Jewish tradition. They explore how wine reflects our partnership with God, why it plays such a central role in rituals like Kiddush, and how even beginners can engage with wine as a spiritual experience.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbi Alan Litwick of Temple Sinai in North Miami Beach for a discussion about the deep connections between wine, spirituality, and Jewish tradition. They explore how wine reflects our partnership with God, why it plays such a central role in rituals like Kiddush, and how even beginners can engage with wine as a spiritual experience.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin sits down with Rabbi Alan Litwick of Temple Sinai in North Miami Beach for a discussion about the deep connections between wine, spirituality, and Jewish tradition. They explore how wine reflects our partnership with God, why it plays such a central role in rituals like Kiddush, and how even beginners can engage with wine as a spiritual experience. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2280 4 27 full Where Do We Find Hope and Resilience? with Rabbi Naomi Levy and Rabbi Laila Haas Where Do We Find Hope and Resilience? with Rabbi Naomi Levy and Rabbi Laila Haas https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-see-god-with-rabbi-naomi-levy-and-rabbi-laila-haas/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-see-god-with-rabbi-naomi-levy-and-rabbi-laila-haas/#comments Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/a4e15b58-15d8-3e83-a3bc-88879d394f62 There are times when the challenges we confront in life can feel overwhelming, when the situations we face feel so difficult that we fall prey to the darkness of despair. Today, Rabbi Laila Haas and Rabbi Dan Levin sit down with noted author and teacher Rabbi Naomi Levy, whose remarkable work can show us how to find hope and cultivate resilience to move through life’s most challenging times.

]]> There are times when the challenges we confront in life can feel overwhelming, when the situations we face feel so difficult that we fall prey to the darkness of despair. Today, Rabbi Laila Haas and Rabbi Dan Levin sit down with noted author and teacher Rabbi Naomi Levy, whose remarkable work can show us how to find hope and cultivate resilience to move through life’s most challenging times.

]]> There are times when the challenges we confront in life can feel overwhelming, when the situations we face feel so difficult that we fall prey to the darkness of despair. Today, Rabbi Laila Haas and Rabbi Dan Levin sit down with noted author and teacher Rabbi Naomi Levy, whose remarkable work can show us how to find hope and cultivate resilience to move through life’s most challenging times. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2881 4 4 full How Should Rabbis Meet the Moment? with Rabbi Greg Weisman and Rabbi Laila Haas How Should Rabbis Meet the Moment? with Rabbi Greg Weisman and Rabbi Laila Haas https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-should-rabbis-meet-the-moment-with-rabbi-greg-weisman-and-rabbi-laila-haas/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-should-rabbis-meet-the-moment-with-rabbi-greg-weisman-and-rabbi-laila-haas/#comments Wed, 07 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/da81cdde-5164-3f26-9f49-df577bc16bd7 We find ourselves in a time of significant turmoil.  The administration has imposed dramatic and sweeping change to longstanding norms and government policies on a wide range of issues.  Antisemitism and anti-Zionism continues to roil college campuses and plague Jewish communities.  Israel continues to fight the longest war in its history, with hostages languishing in captivity, and rifts in Israeli society grow ever wider. Considering the impact so much of this turmoil imposes on our individual lives, and the moral challenges we are facing, join Rabbi Dan Levin, Rabbi Greg Weisman and Rabbi Laila Haas for a conversation about how rabbis should meet the moment.

]]> We find ourselves in a time of significant turmoil.  The administration has imposed dramatic and sweeping change to longstanding norms and government policies on a wide range of issues.  Antisemitism and anti-Zionism continues to roil college campuses and plague Jewish communities.  Israel continues to fight the longest war in its history, with hostages languishing in captivity, and rifts in Israeli society grow ever wider. Considering the impact so much of this turmoil imposes on our individual lives, and the moral challenges we are facing, join Rabbi Dan Levin, Rabbi Greg Weisman and Rabbi Laila Haas for a conversation about how rabbis should meet the moment.

]]> We find ourselves in a time of significant turmoil.  The administration has imposed dramatic and sweeping change to longstanding norms and government policies on a wide range of issues.  Antisemitism and anti-Zionism continues to roil college campuses and plague Jewish communities.  Israel continues to fight the longest war in its history, with hostages languishing in captivity, and rifts in Israeli society grow ever wider. Considering the impact so much of this turmoil imposes on our individual lives, and the moral challenges we are facing, join Rabbi Dan Levin, Rabbi Greg Weisman and Rabbi Laila Haas for a conversation about how rabbis should meet the moment. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2604 4 3 full What Does the Reform Movement Contribute to the State of Israel? with Rabbi Nir Barkin and Rabbi David Azoulay of Kehillat YOZMA What Does the Reform Movement Contribute to the State of Israel? with Rabbi Nir Barkin and Rabbi David Azoulay of Kehillat YOZMA https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-the-reform-movement-contribute-to-the-state-of-israel-with-rabbi-nir-barkin-and-rabbi-david-azoulay-of-kehillat-yozma/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-the-reform-movement-contribute-to-the-state-of-israel-with-rabbi-nir-barkin-and-rabbi-david-azoulay-of-kehillat-yozma/#comments Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/75a881cf-b6a4-3a26-b16a-bf7fc2273374 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Nir Barkin and Rabbi David Azoulay of our sister Reform congregation, Kehillat YOZMA in Modi’in, Israel. They discuss their unique experiences and their congregation’s response to October 7th, the work they do to help their community, and what Reform Judaism contributes to Israeli society and Jewish life in Israel.

They also encourage everyone to VOTE REFORM in the World Zionist Congress election, which ends on Sunday, May 4. Your vote is a powerful way to support our Reform movement and strengthen the future of Reform Judaism in Israel. For $5 and 5 minutes of your time, you can advance the issues we care about – religious pluralism, freedom, peace, democracy and more – in Israel and beyond. If you haven’t voted already, please VOTE REFORM today at ZionistElection.org.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Nir Barkin and Rabbi David Azoulay of our sister Reform congregation, Kehillat YOZMA in Modi’in, Israel. They discuss their unique experiences and their congregation’s response to October 7th, the work they do to help their community, and what Reform Judaism contributes to Israeli society and Jewish life in Israel.

They also encourage everyone to VOTE REFORM in the World Zionist Congress election, which ends on Sunday, May 4. Your vote is a powerful way to support our Reform movement and strengthen the future of Reform Judaism in Israel. For $5 and 5 minutes of your time, you can advance the issues we care about – religious pluralism, freedom, peace, democracy and more – in Israel and beyond. If you haven’t voted already, please VOTE REFORM today at ZionistElection.org.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Nir Barkin and Rabbi David Azoulay of our Reform sister congregation, Kehillat YOZMA in Modi’in, Israel. They discuss their experiences and their congregations’ response to October 7th, the work they do to help their community, and the importance of being a Reform Jewish presence in Israel. They also encourage everyone to VOTE REFORM in the World Zionist Congress election, which ends on Sunday, May 4. Your vote is a powerful way to support our Reform movement and strengthen the future of Reform Judaism in Israel. For $5 and 5 minutes of your time, you can advance the issues we care about – religious pluralism, freedom, peace, democracy and more – in Israel and beyond. If you haven’t voted already, please VOTE REFORM today at ZionistElection.org. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3028 4 2 full What Does it Mean to be a Progressive Zionist? with Amanda Berman, CEO of Zioness What Does it Mean to be a Progressive Zionist? with Amanda Berman, CEO of Zioness https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-progressive-zionist-with-amanda-berman-ceo-of-zioness/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-progressive-zionist-with-amanda-berman-ceo-of-zioness/#comments Wed, 23 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/872d419b-cab2-3bce-9aff-004610bb37bb In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Amanda Berman, CEO of Zioness. Zioness is a multiracial coalition of Jewish activists and allies that fight for the advancement of social, racial, economic and gender equality in America and for the inclusion of Zionists in social justice spaces. Rabbi Dan and Amanda discuss what it means to be a progressive Zionist, the history and definition of Zionism, and how the Zionist label affects Jewish Americans today

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Amanda Berman, CEO of Zioness. Zioness is a multiracial coalition of Jewish activists and allies that fight for the advancement of social, racial, economic and gender equality in America and for the inclusion of Zionists in social justice spaces. Rabbi Dan and Amanda discuss what it means to be a progressive Zionist, the history and definition of Zionism, and how the Zionist label affects Jewish Americans today

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Amanda Berman, CEO of Zioness. Zioness is a multiracial coalition of Jewish activists and allies that fight for the advancement of social, racial, economic and gender equality in America and for the inclusion of Zionists in social justice spaces. Rabbi Dan and Amanda discuss what it means to be a progressive Zionist, the history and definition of Zionism, and how the Zionist label affects Jewish Americans today Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2973 4 1 full How Do I Prepare for the High Holy Days? with Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen and Cantor Jake Harris How Do I Prepare for the High Holy Days? with Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen and Cantor Jake Harris https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-prepare-for-the-high-holy-days-with-cantorial-soloist-michelle-auslander-cohen-and-cantor-jake-harris/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-prepare-for-the-high-holy-days-with-cantorial-soloist-michelle-auslander-cohen-and-cantor-jake-harris/#comments Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/6a45ca8e-6093-37c9-8c31-df574af08415 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with two of Temple Beth El’s cantors, Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen and Cantor Jake Harris. They discuss their love of Jewish music and what led them to become cantors, how they engage a large congregation for an exceptional communal experience, what goes into preparing to lead the congregation for the High Holy Days, how they personally prepare for the High Holy Days, and more.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with two of Temple Beth El’s cantors, Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen and Cantor Jake Harris. They discuss their love of Jewish music and what led them to become cantors, how they engage a large congregation for an exceptional communal experience, what goes into preparing to lead the congregation for the High Holy Days, how they personally prepare for the High Holy Days, and more.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2954 3 26 full How Do You Parent From a Spiritual Place? with Dasee Berkowitz and Rabbi Amy Pessah How Do You Parent From a Spiritual Place? with Dasee Berkowitz and Rabbi Amy Pessah https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-parent-from-a-spiritual-place-with-dasee-berkowitz-and-rabbi-amy-pessah/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-parent-from-a-spiritual-place-with-dasee-berkowitz-and-rabbi-amy-pessah/#comments Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/ad341a4b-c941-3d66-9478-b34b3fa41faf In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Desee Berkowitz, author of Becoming a Soulful Parent, and Rabbi Amy Pessah, author of Parenting on a Prayer. They discuss how to ensure your child’s spiritual growth, how to prioritize spirituality amid other commitments such as sports and academic demands, small ways to bring spirituality and gratitude into children’s lives, balancing the need to protect your children with allowing them to make mistakes, and more.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Desee Berkowitz, author of Becoming a Soulful Parent, and Rabbi Amy Pessah, author of Parenting on a Prayer. They discuss how to ensure your child’s spiritual growth, how to prioritize spirituality amid other commitments such as sports and academic demands, small ways to bring spirituality and gratitude into children’s lives, balancing the need to protect your children with allowing them to make mistakes, and more.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2911 25 full What is Love All About? with Rabbi Shai Held What is Love All About? with Rabbi Shai Held https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-love-all-about-with-rabbi-shai-held/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-love-all-about-with-rabbi-shai-held/#comments Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:40:26 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/e711a0d6-4007-37db-893a-bc5d2b29b5b9 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Shai Held about the concept of love. They define love in a spiritual context, and discuss how you can develop a “posture” of love, how to learn to love yourself, and what it means to love others, as well as how the concept of love connects with those of hate, justice, and protest.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Shai Held about the concept of love. They define love in a spiritual context, and discuss how you can develop a “posture” of love, how to learn to love yourself, and what it means to love others, as well as how the concept of love connects with those of hate, justice, and protest.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2874 3 24 full What Do I Have to Do? with Rabbi Dr. Mark Washofsky What Do I Have to Do? with Rabbi Dr. Mark Washofsky https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-do-i-have-to-do-with-dr-rabbi-mark-washofsky/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-do-i-have-to-do-with-dr-rabbi-mark-washofsky/#comments Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/96f17ae4-99e3-3f71-a178-913ab4931436 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Dr. Mark Washofsky. They discuss the intersection between Reform Judaism and halakha, the ongoing conversation between ancient texts and modern life, and what it means to be “authentically Jewish” within Reform Judaism.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Dr. Mark Washofsky. They discuss the intersection between Reform Judaism and halakha, the ongoing conversation between ancient texts and modern life, and what it means to be “authentically Jewish” within Reform Judaism.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2968 3 23 full How Can We Support LGBTQ+ Individuals to Explore and Express their Most Authentic Selves? with Tracey Labgold How Can We Support LGBTQ+ Individuals to Explore and Express their Most Authentic Selves? with Tracey Labgold https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-we-support-lgbtq-individuals-to-explore-and-express-their-most-authentic-selves-with-tracey-labgold/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-we-support-lgbtq-individuals-to-explore-and-express-their-most-authentic-selves-with-tracey-labgold/#comments Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/1af25bd7-ca88-3d0a-aa46-4d7df89f8801 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Tracey Labgold, Florida Education & Training Manager for Keshet, a non-profit that works for LGBTQ+ equality in Jewish life. They discuss different LGBTQ+ identities, the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity, and the best ways to support those who identify as queer in a Jewish context.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Tracey Labgold, Florida Education & Training Manager for Keshet, a non-profit that works for LGBTQ+ equality in Jewish life. They discuss different LGBTQ+ identities, the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity, and the best ways to support those who identify as queer in a Jewish context.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Tracey Labgold, Florida Education & Training Manager for Keshet, a non-profit that works for LGBTQ+ equality in Jewish life. They discuss different LGBTQ+ identities, the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity, and the best ways to support those who identify as queer in a Jewish context. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2988 3 3 full How Can Jewish Learning Transform Our Lives? with Rabbi Laila Haas How Can Jewish Learning Transform Our Lives? with Rabbi Laila Haas https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-jewish-learning-transform-our-lives-with-rabbi-laila-haas/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-jewish-learning-transform-our-lives-with-rabbi-laila-haas/#comments Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/c52ff655-5c1a-39f7-8077-26667553bfc1 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Laila Haas, who joined Temple Beth El's clergy team in June 2024. They talk about how they both fell in love with Jewish learning, their experiences learning in Israel, what Torah means to them, how they find meaning and purpose in their lives through Judaism, and more.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Laila Haas, who joined Temple Beth El's clergy team in June 2024. They talk about how they both fell in love with Jewish learning, their experiences learning in Israel, what Torah means to them, how they find meaning and purpose in their lives through Judaism, and more.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Laila Haas, who joined Temple Beth El’s clergy team in June 2024. They talk about how they both fell in love with Jewish learning, their experiences learning in Israel, what Torah means to them, how they find meaning and purpose in their lives through Judaism, and more. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2659 3 2 full What is Cognitive Dissonance? with Dr. Martin Segel and Dr. Marissa Roecklein What is Cognitive Dissonance? with Dr. Martin Segel and Dr. Marissa Roecklein https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-cognitive-dissonance-with-dr-martin-segel-and-dr-marissa-roecklein/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-cognitive-dissonance-with-dr-martin-segel-and-dr-marissa-roecklein/#comments Thu, 08 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/d87e81d7-e104-3bb6-ad70-76d68978b902 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Dr. Martin Segel and Dr. Marissa Roecklein about cognitive dissonance, or the discomfort that occurs when you hold two conflicting beliefs at the same time. They discuss why it is so hard to recognize within yourself, what enforces it, and tools to combat it.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Dr. Martin Segel and Dr. Marissa Roecklein about cognitive dissonance, or the discomfort that occurs when you hold two conflicting beliefs at the same time. They discuss why it is so hard to recognize within yourself, what enforces it, and tools to combat it.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2568 22 full Do You Have 15 Minutes for Spiritual Practice? A Special Passover Episode with Rabbi Debra Robbins Do You Have 15 Minutes for Spiritual Practice? A Special Passover Episode with Rabbi Debra Robbins https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/do-you-have-15-minutes-for-spiritual-practice-a-special-passover-episode-with-rabbi-debra-robbins/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/do-you-have-15-minutes-for-spiritual-practice-a-special-passover-episode-with-rabbi-debra-robbins/#comments Mon, 22 Apr 2024 09:17:08 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/623198da-efc2-34e9-b284-d67570edde47 In this special Passover episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Debra Robbins, author of New Each Day, which we are using for our Omer practice this year. They discuss ways to incorporate a daily prayer practice into your life, select poems Rabbi Debra Robbins wrote in response to the psalms in New Each Day, and her experience in writing the book.

]]> In this special Passover episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Debra Robbins, author of New Each Day, which we are using for our Omer practice this year. They discuss ways to incorporate a daily prayer practice into your life, select poems Rabbi Debra Robbins wrote in response to the psalms in New Each Day, and her experience in writing the book.

]]> In this special Passover episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Debra Robbins, author of New Each Day, which we are using for our Omer practice this year. They discuss ways to incorporate a daily prayer practice into your life, select poems Rabbi Debra Robbins wrote in response to the psalms in New Each Day, and her experience in writing the book. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2617 3 1 full How Can We Learn to Sanctify Time? with Rabbi Dalia Marx How Can We Learn to Sanctify Time? with Rabbi Dalia Marx https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-we-learn-to-sanctify-time-with-rabbi-dalia-marx/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-can-we-learn-to-sanctify-time-with-rabbi-dalia-marx/#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/a3182707-5b17-36cc-b83c-d56ec551e81b In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Dalia Marx about how to sanctify time. They talk about rituals and their role in enriching spiritual encounters, how to remove barriers to spirituality, what Shabbat and other holy days look like during a time of war in Israel, and more.

 

Read Rabbi Dalia Marx's book: From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar - https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50602

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Dalia Marx about how to sanctify time. They talk about rituals and their role in enriching spiritual encounters, how to remove barriers to spirituality, what Shabbat and other holy days look like during a time of war in Israel, and more.

 

Read Rabbi Dalia Marx's book: From Time to Time: Journeys in the Jewish Calendar - https://www.ccarpress.org/shopping_product_detail.asp?pid=50602

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Dalia Marx about how to sanctify time. They talk about rituals and their role in enriching spiritual encounters, how to remove barriers to spirituality, what Shabbat and other holy days look like during a time of war in Israel, and more. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3112 2 21 full How Do We Best Parent Our Children in Youth Sports? with Dr. Andrea Corn and Randy Nathan How Do We Best Parent Our Children in Youth Sports? with Dr. Andrea Corn and Randy Nathan https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-best-parent-our-children-in-youth-sports-with-dr-andrea-corn-and-randy-nathan/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-best-parent-our-children-in-youth-sports-with-dr-andrea-corn-and-randy-nathan/#comments Wed, 31 Jan 2024 06:10:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/47549dcf-abd4-31ed-b2be-396b9d9c6f6b In today’s episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Dr. Andrea Corn and Randy Nathan about youth sports. They discuss the different physical, social, and leadership benefits they see for children involved in youth sports, how to handle winning and losing, the balance between youth sports and other obligations, and more.

]]> In today’s episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Dr. Andrea Corn and Randy Nathan about youth sports. They discuss the different physical, social, and leadership benefits they see for children involved in youth sports, how to handle winning and losing, the balance between youth sports and other obligations, and more.

]]> In today’s episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Dr. Andrea Corn and Randy Nathan about youth sports. They discuss the different physical, social, and leadership benefits they see for children involved in youth sports, how to handle winning and losing, the balance between youth sports and other obligations, and more. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3130 2 20 full What Is It Like To Serve In The IDF Reserves? with Major Noam Goldberg, Major Ori Sobovitz, Lieutenant Lia Behiri and Captain Eitan Brown What Is It Like To Serve In The IDF Reserves? with Major Noam Goldberg, Major Ori Sobovitz, Lieutenant Lia Behiri and Captain Eitan Brown https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-serve-in-the-idf-reserves-with-major-noam-goldberg-major-ori-sobovitz-lieutenant-lia-behiri-and-captain-eitan-brown/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-serve-in-the-idf-reserves-with-major-noam-goldberg-major-ori-sobovitz-lieutenant-lia-behiri-and-captain-eitan-brown/#comments Wed, 24 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/2f4d3ad0-7546-3c94-92d3-a542b852dc39 In this episode of Essential Questions, Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen interviews four current members of the IDF Reserves. Join us as we bear witness to the experiences of the brave Israeli soldiers currently stationed in the North. Hear their incredible stories and find out what we can do to support them.

Our guests include:

  • Major Noam Goldberg, Company Commander, Headquarters and Service company. Noam is the commander of the HQ company and is in charge of the the battalion staff officers and their respective platoons.
  • Major Ori Sobovitz, Education and Resilience Officer. Ori heads the educational program in the battalion and has taken charge of coordinating the battalion's soldiers' welfare since the beginning of the war.
  • Lieutenant Lia Behiri, Command Center (war room) Officer. Lia runs the battalion's war room and coordinates all ongoing activity in the battalion.
  • Captain Eitan Brown, Battalion Operations Officer. Eitan is responsible for the planning, coordination and execution of the battalion's military operations.

 

Learn more: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/usd

Donate: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/usd/donation-targets/115033

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Cantorial Soloist Michelle Auslander Cohen interviews four current members of the IDF Reserves. Join us as we bear witness to the experiences of the brave Israeli soldiers currently stationed in the North. Hear their incredible stories and find out what we can do to support them.

Our guests include:

  • Major Noam Goldberg, Company Commander, Headquarters and Service company. Noam is the commander of the HQ company and is in charge of the the battalion staff officers and their respective platoons.
  • Major Ori Sobovitz, Education and Resilience Officer. Ori heads the educational program in the battalion and has taken charge of coordinating the battalion's soldiers' welfare since the beginning of the war.
  • Lieutenant Lia Behiri, Command Center (war room) Officer. Lia runs the battalion's war room and coordinates all ongoing activity in the battalion.
  • Captain Eitan Brown, Battalion Operations Officer. Eitan is responsible for the planning, coordination and execution of the battalion's military operations.

 

Learn more: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/usd

Donate: https://www.jgive.com/new/en/usd/donation-targets/115033

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3097 2 19 full What Is It Like To Be In Israel? with Rabbi Elana Rabishaw What Is It Like To Be In Israel? with Rabbi Elana Rabishaw https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-in-israel-with-rabbi-elana-rabishaw/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-it-like-to-be-in-israel-with-rabbi-elana-rabishaw/#comments Wed, 10 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/ddd9db27-bd39-389d-a538-2b525ed62475 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Elana Rabishaw about their recent trips to Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas, as well as their past experiences with Israel that are meaningful to them.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Elana Rabishaw about their recent trips to Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas, as well as their past experiences with Israel that are meaningful to them.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Elana Rabishaw about their recent trips to Israel amid the ongoing war with Hamas, as well as their past experiences with Israel that are meaningful to them. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3442 18 full What is Sacred Aging? with Rabbi Richard Address What is Sacred Aging? with Rabbi Richard Address https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-sacred-aging-with-rabbi-richard-address/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-sacred-aging-with-rabbi-richard-address/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/709aa429-f071-35ec-b09e-c684f9d3bb12 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Richard Address, the founder and director of JewishSacredAging.com. They define the concept of Sacred Aging and discuss what makes something sacred, how you can live life so it has meaning, and the importance of a legacy.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Richard Address, the founder and director of JewishSacredAging.com. They define the concept of Sacred Aging and discuss what makes something sacred, how you can live life so it has meaning, and the importance of a legacy.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Richard Address, the founder and director of JewishSacredAging.com. They define the concept of Sacred Aging and discuss what makes something sacred, how you can live life so it has meaning, and the importance of a legacy. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3060 2 17 full Conversations from Israel - What Does it Mean to Bear Witness? with Dana Dvorin, Liat Fishman Lenny and Ira Fuchs Conversations from Israel - What Does it Mean to Bear Witness? with Dana Dvorin, Liat Fishman Lenny and Ira Fuchs https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-bear-witness-with-dana-dvorin-liat-fishman-lenny-and-ira-fuchs/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-bear-witness-with-dana-dvorin-liat-fishman-lenny-and-ira-fuchs/#comments Wed, 20 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/15aa2dce-de96-3e84-b52b-10649ab040e2 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks about the experience and importance of telling stories with some of the creative team behind Israeli podcast Rays of Light: Dana Dvorin, Liat Fishman Lenny and Ira Fuchs. Their podcast captures the stories of women who survived the attacks of October 7, and shares them through the voices of Israeli actors and through the magnificent sand art of Ilana Yahav. They discuss the inspiration behind this project, and why their work is so important.

Watch some videos from the Rays of Light series here:

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks about the experience and importance of telling stories with some of the creative team behind Israeli podcast Rays of Light: Dana Dvorin, Liat Fishman Lenny and Ira Fuchs. Their podcast captures the stories of women who survived the attacks of October 7, and shares them through the voices of Israeli actors and through the magnificent sand art of Ilana Yahav. They discuss the inspiration behind this project, and why their work is so important.

Watch some videos from the Rays of Light series here:

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks about the experience and importance of telling stories with some of the creative team behind Israeli podcast Rays of Light: Dana Dvorin, Liat Fishman Lenny and Ira Fuchs. Their podcast captures the stories of women who survived the attacks of October 7, and shares them through the voices of Israeli actors and through the magnificent sand art of Ilana Yahav. They discuss the inspiration behind this project, and why their work is so important. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3182 2 16 full Re-Release: Do I Need to Believe in God? with Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson Re-Release: Do I Need to Believe in God? with Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/re-release-do-i-need-to-believe-in-god-with-rabbi-dr-david-ellenson/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/re-release-do-i-need-to-believe-in-god-with-rabbi-dr-david-ellenson/#comments Wed, 13 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/2fe650d9-cb54-349b-8441-dbe1ad36318e On Thursday, December 7, the Jewish world lost one of the great leaders and scholars of our generation, Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson, past president and chancellor of the Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion; and teacher, rabbi, mentor, and role model of Rabbi Dan Levin.

Today, in his memory, we are re-releasing an episode of Essential Questions, where Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson spoke about different ways to think about God within Judaism, and if a belief in God is necessary.

]]> On Thursday, December 7, the Jewish world lost one of the great leaders and scholars of our generation, Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson, past president and chancellor of the Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion; and teacher, rabbi, mentor, and role model of Rabbi Dan Levin.

Today, in his memory, we are re-releasing an episode of Essential Questions, where Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Dr. David Ellenson spoke about different ways to think about God within Judaism, and if a belief in God is necessary.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2539 15 full How Do We Create Human Connections That Transcend Cultural Differences? with Jessica Keith How Do We Create Human Connections That Transcend Cultural Differences? with Jessica Keith https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-create-human-connections-that-transcend-cultural-differences-with-jessica-keith/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-create-human-connections-that-transcend-cultural-differences-with-jessica-keith/#comments Wed, 06 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/1b40cfd0-3526-3f41-b242-633385a1e26e In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Jessica Keith, author of Saying Inshallah with Chutzpah, about her experience working at the Kuwaiti Consulate in Los Angeles. They discuss different cultural contexts for "normal," how learning isn't always comfortable, and about different experiences of intolerance.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Jessica Keith, author of Saying Inshallah with Chutzpah, about her experience working at the Kuwaiti Consulate in Los Angeles. They discuss different cultural contexts for "normal," how learning isn't always comfortable, and about different experiences of intolerance.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Jessica Keith, author of Saying Inshallah with Chutzpah, about her experience working at the Kuwaiti Consulate in Los Angeles. They discuss different cultural contexts for ”normal,” how learning isn’t always comfortable, and about different experiences of intolerance. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2701 2 5 full What is the Future of Democracy? with Michael Abramowitz, President of Freedom House What is the Future of Democracy? with Michael Abramowitz, President of Freedom House https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-future-of-democracy-with-michael-abramowitz-president-of-freedom-house/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-future-of-democracy-with-michael-abramowitz-president-of-freedom-house/#comments Wed, 29 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/3d722290-3f83-3499-b493-bcf67577091c In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Michael Abramowitz, president of Freedom House, a non-partisan voice dedicated to supporting democracy. They talk about the importance of journalism, what it takes for a democracy to work, and how increasing technologies affect the future of democracies today.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Michael Abramowitz, president of Freedom House, a non-partisan voice dedicated to supporting democracy. They talk about the importance of journalism, what it takes for a democracy to work, and how increasing technologies affect the future of democracies today.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Michael Abramowitz, president of Freedom House, a non-partisan voice dedicated to supporting democracy. They talk about the importance of journalism, what it takes for a democracy to work, and how increasing technologies affect the future of democracies today. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2347 2 3 full How Do You Raise a Child? with Yehuda Kohn How Do You Raise a Child? with Yehuda Kohn https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-raise-a-child-with-yehuda-kohn/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-you-raise-a-child-with-yehuda-kohn/#comments Wed, 22 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/2ad02771-9865-36bd-b5c7-fdb1ef6dfe33 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Yehuda Kohn, the father and spirit of Bet Elazraki, a chlidren's home in Israel to over 200 children ages 6-18. They talk about what it means to be a parent, different ways to show love for your children, and common struggles parents face in a Jewish context.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Yehuda Kohn, the father and spirit of Bet Elazraki, a chlidren's home in Israel to over 200 children ages 6-18. They talk about what it means to be a parent, different ways to show love for your children, and common struggles parents face in a Jewish context.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Yehuda Kohn, the father and spirit of Bet Elazraki, a chlidren’s home in Israel to over 200 children ages 6-18. They talk about what it means to be a parent, different ways to show love for your children, and common struggles parents face in a Jewish context. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2620 2 2 full What Does Judaism Need to do to Respond to the Digital Age? With Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff What Does Judaism Need to do to Respond to the Digital Age? With Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-judaism-need-to-do-to-respond-to-the-digital-age-with-rabbi-dr-danny-schiff/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-does-judaism-need-to-do-to-respond-to-the-digital-age-with-rabbi-dr-danny-schiff/#comments Wed, 15 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/d4ebcdc7-dbec-396c-be6f-f98f3e099fc2 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff about how Judaism responds to the digital age. They discuss responses to the war between Israel and Hamas on social media, how Reform and Conservative Judaism treats new technologies, and how connections to others online compares to in person.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff about how Judaism responds to the digital age. They discuss responses to the war between Israel and Hamas on social media, how Reform and Conservative Judaism treats new technologies, and how connections to others online compares to in person.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff about how Judaism responds to the digital age. They discuss responses to the war between Israel and Hamas on social media, how Reform and Conservative Judaism treat new technologies, and how connections to others online compares to in person. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3232 2 1 full Special Episode: Responding to the War in Israel with Rabbi Greg Weisman, Professor Simon Barak and Dana Gavish-Fridman from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Special Episode: Responding to the War in Israel with Rabbi Greg Weisman, Professor Simon Barak and Dana Gavish-Fridman from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/special-episoderesponding-tothewar-in-israel-with-rabbigregweisman-professor-simonbarakanddanagavish-fridmanfromben-gurionuniversity-ofthe-negev/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/special-episoderesponding-tothewar-in-israel-with-rabbigregweisman-professor-simonbarakanddanagavish-fridmanfromben-gurionuniversity-ofthe-negev/#comments Wed, 08 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500 tbeboca.podbean.com/445f7094-4340-3525-ad07-e79fc3a86f3d If you missed last week's webinar, you can now listen to the conversation between with faculty members from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Professor Simon Barak and Dana Gavish-Fridman, and Rabbi Greg Weisman.

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev sits 25 miles from the border with Gaza and was significantly impacted by the October 7 terrorist attacks. More than 60 BGU students, staff, faculty, and family were either murdered, kidnapped or missing. Since then, the University has transformed, turning dorms into army barracks and homes for displaced families, and mobilizing students and, staff to support the war effort.

 

They shared how the war in Israel has impacted Ben-Gurion University, the work of Soroka Medical Center that serves the southern part of the country and which treated 1,000 patients in its emergency room on the day of the attack, and how it has affected them personally.

Organizations we encourage contributions to include the following:

]]> If you missed last week's webinar, you can now listen to the conversation between with faculty members from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Professor Simon Barak and Dana Gavish-Fridman, and Rabbi Greg Weisman.

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev sits 25 miles from the border with Gaza and was significantly impacted by the October 7 terrorist attacks. More than 60 BGU students, staff, faculty, and family were either murdered, kidnapped or missing. Since then, the University has transformed, turning dorms into army barracks and homes for displaced families, and mobilizing students and, staff to support the war effort.

 

They shared how the war in Israel has impacted Ben-Gurion University, the work of Soroka Medical Center that serves the southern part of the country and which treated 1,000 patients in its emergency room on the day of the attack, and how it has affected them personally.

Organizations we encourage contributions to include the following:

]]> If you missed last week’s webinar, you can now listen to the conversation between with faculty members from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Professor Simon Barak and Dana Gavish-Fridman, and Rabbi Greg Weisman. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3365 2 14 full Special Episode: Update from the Front Line with Tovah Lazaroff, Deputy Managing Editor of The Jerusalem Post Special Episode: Update from the Front Line with Tovah Lazaroff, Deputy Managing Editor of The Jerusalem Post https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/special-episode-update-from-the-front-line-with-tovah-lazaroff-deputy-managing-editor-of-the-jerusalem-post/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/special-episode-update-from-the-front-line-with-tovah-lazaroff-deputy-managing-editor-of-the-jerusalem-post/#comments Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:12:28 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/15a6830b-0893-3d2d-ac04-8d4d4e104b3b If you weren't able to attend this morning's informative webinar, you can listen to the conversation between Rabbi Dan Levin and Deputy Managing Editor of The Jerusalem Post Tovah Lazaroff about what is going on in Israel here.

Tovah has expertise in coverage of the settlements, diplomacy, the United Nations, hostage situations, conflicts on the southern and northern borders, and how Israel deals with victims of terror.

We hope you enjoy this conversation, and that you come away with more understanding of the conflict and where we go from here.

]]> If you weren't able to attend this morning's informative webinar, you can listen to the conversation between Rabbi Dan Levin and Deputy Managing Editor of The Jerusalem Post Tovah Lazaroff about what is going on in Israel here.

Tovah has expertise in coverage of the settlements, diplomacy, the United Nations, hostage situations, conflicts on the southern and northern borders, and how Israel deals with victims of terror.

We hope you enjoy this conversation, and that you come away with more understanding of the conflict and where we go from here.

]]> If you weren’t able to attend this morning’s informative webinar, you can listen to the conversation between Rabbi Dan Levin and Deputy Managing Editor of The Jerusalem Post Tovah Lazaroff about what is going on in Israel here. Tovah has expertise in coverage of the settlements, diplomacy, the United Nations, hostage situations, conflicts on the southern and northern borders, and how Israel deals with victims of terror. We hope you enjoy this conversation, and that you come away with more understanding of the conflict and where we go from here. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3551 2 2 full What Is Going On In Israel? with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg What Is Going On In Israel? with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-going-on-in-israel-with-rabbi-joshua-weinberg/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-going-on-in-israel-with-rabbi-joshua-weinberg/#comments Wed, 11 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/b2385547-51ad-3d3f-8a99-4509b38004aa In this special episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg, Vice President of the URJ for Israel and Reform Zionism, and Executive Director of ARZA, the Association of Reform Zionists of America.

Together, they discuss what is going on in Israel amid the war with Hamas.

Organizations we encourage contributions to include the following:

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

 

]]> In this special episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg, Vice President of the URJ for Israel and Reform Zionism, and Executive Director of ARZA, the Association of Reform Zionists of America.

Together, they discuss what is going on in Israel amid the war with Hamas.

Organizations we encourage contributions to include the following:

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

 

]]> In this special episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Joshua Weinberg, Vice President of the URJ for Israel and Reform Zionism, and Executive Director of ARZA, the Association of Reform Zionists of America. Together, they discuss what is going on in Israel amid the war with Hamas. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2808 2 1 full How Do I Prepare For The High Holy Days? with Rabbi Greg Weisman and Cantor Lori Brock How Do I Prepare For The High Holy Days? with Rabbi Greg Weisman and Cantor Lori Brock https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-prepare-for-the-high-holy-days-with-rabbi-greg-weisman-and-cantor-lori-brock/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-i-prepare-for-the-high-holy-days-with-rabbi-greg-weisman-and-cantor-lori-brock/#comments Wed, 06 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/7b672cd6-24aa-3981-b238-c45fdde44dd4 In this special High Holy Day-themed episode of the Essential Questions podcast, Cantor Lori Brock and Rabbi Greg Weisman join Rabbi Dan Levin for an episode discussing how they prepare themselves to lead High Holy Day services for the congregation, as well as how they spiritually prepare for the High Holy Days in their own lives.

]]> In this special High Holy Day-themed episode of the Essential Questions podcast, Cantor Lori Brock and Rabbi Greg Weisman join Rabbi Dan Levin for an episode discussing how they prepare themselves to lead High Holy Day services for the congregation, as well as how they spiritually prepare for the High Holy Days in their own lives.

]]> In this special High Holy Day-themed episode of the Essential Questions podcast, Cantor Lori Brock and Rabbi Greg Weisman join Rabbi Dan Levin for an episode discussing how they prepare themselves to lead High Holy Day services for the congregation, as well as how they spiritually prepare for the High Holy Days in their own lives. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2832 1 13 full Season 1 Recap with Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Rabbi Elana Rabishaw Season 1 Recap with Rabbi Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Rabbi Elana Rabishaw https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/season-one-recap/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/season-one-recap/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/67a5ae90-e2be-3293-a0d1-19d90f577323 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin is joined by Rabbis Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Elana Rabishaw, as they discuss their favorite moments and takeaways from our Season 1 episodes and guests, including discussions around the episodes featuring Rabbi Ammi Hirsch, Rabbi Jonah Pesner, Rabbi Jennie Rosenn and more.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin is joined by Rabbis Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Elana Rabishaw, as they discuss their favorite moments and takeaways from our Season 1 episodes and guests, including discussions around the episodes featuring Rabbi Ammi Hirsch, Rabbi Jonah Pesner, Rabbi Jennie Rosenn and more.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2510 12 full Do I Need to Believe in God? with Rabbi David Ellenson Do I Need to Believe in God? with Rabbi David Ellenson https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/do-we-need-to-believe-in-god/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/do-we-need-to-believe-in-god/#comments Wed, 28 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/b2a3af07-f7ff-3557-8ec4-d0a11443c801 In the season 1 finale of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with his teacher and friend Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus and past president of Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion, about different ways to think about God within Judaism, and if a belief in God is necessary.

Essential Questions will return for a special season 1 recap on Wednesday, July 19 where Rabbi Dan Levin will be joined by Rabbis Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Greg Weisman.  We will also have another bonus episode in August about making the High Holy Days meaningful amidst our busy lives. Thank you so much for listening to season 1 of Essential Questions!

]]> In the season 1 finale of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with his teacher and friend Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus and past president of Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion, about different ways to think about God within Judaism, and if a belief in God is necessary.

Essential Questions will return for a special season 1 recap on Wednesday, July 19 where Rabbi Dan Levin will be joined by Rabbis Jessica Spitalnic Mates and Greg Weisman.  We will also have another bonus episode in August about making the High Holy Days meaningful amidst our busy lives. Thank you so much for listening to season 1 of Essential Questions!

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2506 11 full What is Social Justice? with Rabbi Jonah Pesner What is Social Justice? with Rabbi Jonah Pesner https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/episode-7/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/episode-7/#comments Wed, 21 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/0e603687-9f20-3e96-9a5c-305855710891 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Jonah Pesner about social justice and its importance in today's society within Jewish values. Rabbi Jonah Pesner serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and has led the Religious Action Center since 2015. Rabbi Pesner also serves as Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism, a position to which he was appointed in 2011. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, he is an inspirational leader and tireless advocate for social justice.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Jonah Pesner about social justice and its importance in today's society within Jewish values. Rabbi Jonah Pesner serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and has led the Religious Action Center since 2015. Rabbi Pesner also serves as Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism, a position to which he was appointed in 2011. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, he is an inspirational leader and tireless advocate for social justice.

]]> Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 3556 1 10 full To Cancel or Not To Cancel? with Evan Nierman To Cancel or Not To Cancel? with Evan Nierman https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/to-cancel-or-not-to-cancel-with-evan-nierman/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/to-cancel-or-not-to-cancel-with-evan-nierman/#comments Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/322000fe-7e7f-35a4-89b9-6c82e94f18f7 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Evan Nierman, author of The Cancel Culture Curse, about the definition and impacts of cancel culture and how we can navigate handling when people make mistakes.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Evan Nierman, author of The Cancel Culture Curse, about the definition and impacts of cancel culture and how we can navigate handling when people make mistakes.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Evan Nierman, author of The Cancel Culture Curse, about the definition and impacts of cancel culture and how we can navigate handling when people make mistakes. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2432 1 9 full How Do We Recharge Reform Judaism? with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch How Do We Recharge Reform Judaism? with Rabbi Ammi Hirsch https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-recharge-reform-judaism-with-rabbi-ammi-hirsch-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-we-recharge-reform-judaism-with-rabbi-ammi-hirsch-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/3b417c81-6489-38d7-84d7-7c84bc58a640 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Ammi Hirsch discuss how to recharge Reform Judaism and how Reform Jews can reconcile a Zionist belief with the political turbulence in Israel.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Ammi Hirsch discuss how to recharge Reform Judaism and how Reform Jews can reconcile a Zionist belief with the political turbulence in Israel.

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin and Rabbi Ammi Hirsch discuss how to recharge Reform Judaism and how Reform Jews can reconcile a Zionist belief with the political turbulence in Israel. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2594 8 full What is Our Responsibility in the Climate Crisis? with Rabbi Jennie Rosenn What is Our Responsibility in the Climate Crisis? with Rabbi Jennie Rosenn https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-our-responsibility-in-the-climate-crisis-with-rabbi-jennie-rosenn-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-our-responsibility-in-the-climate-crisis-with-rabbi-jennie-rosenn-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 31 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/e67fcae0-6c54-396d-a45f-40b2964d0a4a In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Jennie Rosenn, Founder and CEO of Dayenu, an organization mobilizing the American Jewish community to confront the climate crisis with spiritual audacity and bold political action.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Jennie Rosenn, Founder and CEO of Dayenu, an organization mobilizing the American Jewish community to confront the climate crisis with spiritual audacity and bold political action.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with Rabbi Jennie Rosenn, Founder and CEO of Dayenu, an organization mobilizing the American Jewish community to confront the climate crisis with spiritual audacity and bold political action. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2227 7 full How Do Science and Religion Fit Together in Our Lives? with Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman How Do Science and Religion Fit Together in Our Lives? with Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-science-and-religion-fit-together-in-our-lives-with-rabbi-geoffrey-mitelman-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/how-do-science-and-religion-fit-together-in-our-lives-with-rabbi-geoffrey-mitelman-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 24 May 2023 09:09:36 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/3edca05c-b64b-3931-bf26-85b53952d07c In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman, Founding Director of the organization Sinai and Synapses, about how science and religion fit together in our lives.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman, Founding Director of the organization Sinai and Synapses, about how science and religion fit together in our lives.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin talks with Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman, Founding Director of the organization Sinai and Synapses, about how science and religion fit together in our lives. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2492 1 6 full What is the State of Israel as it Celebrates its 75th Birthday? with Bret Stephens What is the State of Israel as it Celebrates its 75th Birthday? with Bret Stephens https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-state-of-israel-as-it-celebrates-its-75th-birthday-with-bret-stephens-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-state-of-israel-as-it-celebrates-its-75th-birthday-with-bret-stephens-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 17 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/c4bab1ce-7d51-3730-9bf1-7a2771a4e7e2 Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens spoke at Temple Beth El in May 2023 about the state of Israel as Israel celebrates its 75th birthday.

If you had the chance to hear his conversation with Rabbi Dan Levin in person, you know how incredibly informative it was. If not, you can listen to this bonus episode - a recording of the live conversation they had as they tried to answer the following questions:

  • What do the changes in Israel’s government mean for American Jews and Diaspora Jews around the world?
  • How is the uptick in global antisemitism related people’s perception of Israeli politics and Israeli leadership?
  • How are we as Reform Jews supposed to feel about Israel?
  • What is the state of Israel as it celebrates its 75th birthday?
]]> Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens spoke at Temple Beth El in May 2023 about the state of Israel as Israel celebrates its 75th birthday.

If you had the chance to hear his conversation with Rabbi Dan Levin in person, you know how incredibly informative it was. If not, you can listen to this bonus episode - a recording of the live conversation they had as they tried to answer the following questions:

  • What do the changes in Israel’s government mean for American Jews and Diaspora Jews around the world?
  • How is the uptick in global antisemitism related people’s perception of Israeli politics and Israeli leadership?
  • How are we as Reform Jews supposed to feel about Israel?
  • What is the state of Israel as it celebrates its 75th birthday?
]]> Bonus Episode - Listen to the recording of the live conversation between Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bret Stephens and Rabbi Dan Levin as they tried to answer the following questions: - What do the changes in Israel’s government mean for American Jews and Diaspora Jews around the world? - How is the uptick in global antisemitism related people’s perception of Israeli politics and Israeli leadership? - How are we as Reform Jews supposed to feel about Israel? - What is the state of Israel as it celebrates its 75th birthday? Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 4231 5 bonus What Are You Waiting For? with Rabbi Karyn Kedar What Are You Waiting For? with Rabbi Karyn Kedar https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-are-you-waiting-for-with-rabbi-karyn-kedar-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-are-you-waiting-for-with-rabbi-karyn-kedar-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 10 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/35ea21fd-af29-3ec8-b921-55f237f321e8 In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with noted scholar Rabbi Karyn Kedar about how we might use the counting of the Omer to follow a path that leads us to answer the essential question, What Are You Waiting For?

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with noted scholar Rabbi Karyn Kedar about how we might use the counting of the Omer to follow a path that leads us to answer the essential question, What Are You Waiting For?

]]> In this episode, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with noted scholar Rabbi Karyn Kedar about how we might use the counting of the Omer to follow a path that leads us to answer the essential question, What Are You Waiting For? Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2502 1 4 full What’s a Big Question? with Rabbi Josh Feigelson What’s a Big Question? with Rabbi Josh Feigelson https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-a-big-question-with-rabbi-josh-feigelson-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/what-s-a-big-question-with-rabbi-josh-feigelson-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 03 May 2023 05:30:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/01a96ace-db50-3142-8501-cc0644eb82d5 In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with guest Rabbi Josh Feigelson about the importance of questions, and about his Ask Big Questions Initiative which he launched at Northwestern University Hillel.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with guest Rabbi Josh Feigelson about the importance of questions, and about his Ask Big Questions Initiative which he launched at Northwestern University Hillel.

]]> In this episode of Essential Questions, Rabbi Dan Levin speaks with guest Rabbi Josh Feigelson about the importance of questions, and about his Ask Big Questions Initiative which he launched at Northwestern University Hillel. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 2161 1 3 full Introduction | Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin Introduction | Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/episode-0-introduction-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/episode-0-introduction-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Wed, 26 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/706fa6af-2de4-3695-a96e-610718ac5fbb Rabbi Dan Levin introduces the concept of why asking questions is important in Judaism, and the purpose of this podcast.

]]> Rabbi Dan Levin introduces the concept of why asking questions is important in Judaism, and the purpose of this podcast.

]]> Rabbi Dan Levin introduces the concept of why asking questions is important in Judaism. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 627 1 2 bonus Trailer | Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin Trailer | Essential Questions with Rabbi Dan Levin https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/trailer-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/ https://tbeboca.podbean.com/e/trailer-essential-questions-with-rabbi-dan-levin/#comments Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:58:26 -0400 tbeboca.podbean.com/9ae67491-8bb6-3739-9e6c-9b458df6e510 What makes a human being – human?

In many ways – this is a question that answers itself.

Human beings ask questions. Questioning is rooted in the very core of what makes us human.  Ever notice that the basic questions of life are the shortest of words?  Who?  When?  Where?  Why?  How?

We hope you will join us in these conversations surrounding the essential questions we all confront in the course of our lives.

]]> What makes a human being – human?

In many ways – this is a question that answers itself.

Human beings ask questions. Questioning is rooted in the very core of what makes us human.  Ever notice that the basic questions of life are the shortest of words?  Who?  When?  Where?  Why?  How?

We hope you will join us in these conversations surrounding the essential questions we all confront in the course of our lives.

]]> We hope you will join us in these conversations surrounding the essential questions we all confront in the course of our lives. Temple Beth El of Boca Raton false No 164 1 trailer