Shows
Tzurba M'Rabanan-Jersey StyleYartzheit Shiur for Lana Kivelevitz a'h -Chanukah-Megilas Taanis-The Inside Storyon this link to contribute whatever you can to keep this podcast on the air:
This proud edifice is in real danger of toppling and disappearing.
We need the help of our listeners to continue to record and edit, and to promote a product that has been a balm and instructive to so many.
The Yeshiva of Newark continued its partnership with Tzurba M’Rabanan
This Episode's discussion
A Special Yartzheit Shiur for Lan...2024-12-2749 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastTzurba M'Rabanan-Episode 61- Lana Kivelevitz Yartzheit Shiur-Chanukah-Megilas Taanis-The Inside Storyon this link to contribute whatever you can to keep this podcast on the air:
This proud edifice is in real danger of toppling and disappearing.
We need the help of our listeners to continue to record and edit, and to promote a product that has been a balm and instructive to so many.
The Yeshiva of Newark continued its partnership with Tzurba M’Rabanan
This Episode's discussion
A Special Yartzheit Shiur for Lan...2024-12-2749 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastTzurba M'Rabanan-Episode 16- Long View Tzedakah- Institutionalizing the Developmentally Disabled-Yartzheit Shiur for Lana Kivelevitz a"hThe Yeshiva of Newark continued its partnership with Tzurba M’Rabanan,with an interactive Shiur dealing with topics in volume 2 which covers Kibbud Av VaEim - Talmud Torah-Geirus-Bris Mila -Pidyon Haben and Tzedaka.
This episode's discussion-
Long View Tzedakah-Freeing Hostages and Institutionalizing the Developmentally Disabled A Special Yartzheit Shiur for Lana Kivelevitz a'h
The Tzurba M’Rabanan halacha program is represented in Eretz Yisroel by over one thousand shiurim across the country. A systematic and concise learning method that walks the reader through the entire halachic process, Tzurba M’Rabanan covers the Biblical and Ta...2023-12-061h 04Tzurba M'Rabanan-Jersey StyleLong View Tzedakah- Institutionalizing the Developmentally Disabled-Yartzheit Shiur for Lana Kivelevitz a"hThe Yeshiva of Newark continued its partnership with Tzurba M’Rabanan,with an interactive Shiur dealing with topics in volume 2 which covers Kibbud Av VaEim - Talmud Torah-Geirus-Bris Mila -Pidyon Haben and Tzedaka.
This episode's discussion-
Long View Tzedakah-Freeing Hostages and Institutionalizing the Developmentally Disabled A Special Yartzheit Shiur for Lana Kivelevitz a'h
The Tzurba M’Rabanan halacha program is represented in Eretz Yisroel by over one thousand shiurim across the country. A systematic and concise learning method that walks the reader through the entire halachic process, Tzurba M’Rabanan covers the Biblical and Ta...2023-12-061h 04
Standing in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni"Yesh מ׳ז׳ל׳ BiYisroel"-Speaking frankly about teenage male sexuality in the Frum World-Responses to Doctor Shloime Zimmerman's From Boys to Men-with Rabbi Shmuel Skaist LPC, CSAT-cThis episode has serious Adult Content
Episode 75: The Sexual Miseducation of Religious Adolescents
Spurred by Dr. Shloimie Zimmerman’s recent book titled
“From Boys to Men,” Rabbi Kivelevitz chairs this panel
discussion with Pro. Juni and Rabbi Shmuel Skaist who is a
noted educator, mentor, and psychotherapist specializing in
sexual addictions. Dr. Zimmerman’s underlying premise, which
the panelists fully endorse, is that adolescents will persist in
some sexual behaviors (especially masturbation) regardless of
any educational efforts. R. Kivelevitz applauds...2023-08-2747 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 75-WARNING-EXPLICIT MATERIAL-"Yesh מ׳ז׳ל׳ BiYisroel"-Speaking frankly about teenage male sexuality in the Frum World-Responses to Doctor Shloime Zimmerman's From Boys to Men-with Rabbi Shmuel Skaist LPC, CSAT-cThis episode has serious Adult Content
Episode 75: The Sexual Miseducation of Religious Adolescents
Spurred by Dr. Shloimie Zimmerman’s recent book titled
“From Boys to Men,” Rabbi Kivelevitz chairs this panel
discussion with Pro. Juni and Rabbi Shmuel Skaist who is a
noted educator, mentor, and psychotherapist specializing in
sexual addictions. Dr. Zimmerman’s underlying premise, which
the panelists fully endorse, is that adolescents will persist in
some sexual behaviors (especially masturbation) regardless of
any educational efforts. R. Kivelevitz applauds...2023-08-2747 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastTzurba M'Rabanan-Episode 7-Women and Gemara Learning-Understanding the Controversy-L'ilui Nishmas Mrs.Bella Kivelevitz
The Yeshiva of Newark continued its partnership with Tzurba M’Rabanan,with an interactive Shiur in volume 2 which covers Kibbud Av VaEim - Talmud Torah-Geirus-Bris Mila -Pidyon Haben and Tzedaka.
This episode's discussion-
Women and Gemara Learning-Understanding the Controversy
L'ilui Nishmas Mrs.Bella Kivelevitz a'h on the occasion of her 33rd YartzheitThe Tzurba M’Rabanan halacha program is represented in Eretz Yisroel by over one thousand shiurim across the country. A systematic and concise learning method that walks the reader through the entire halachic process, Tzurba M’Rabanan covers the Biblical and...2023-08-1752 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniHitlerian Hilarity-Comments on Mel Brooks' 1983 film-To Be or Not to Be Episode 76: Antisemitism, Humor, and the Holocaust:Lubitsch Vs. Brooks
(Except for the introductory initial analysis ofShakespeare’s Shylock in the combined contexts of Antisemitism, Feminism, and the Jewish Humor Genre, this podcast will be of interest primarily to movie buffs who have seen the Ernst Lubitsch Classic comedy “To Be or Not To Be” starring Jack Benny, as well as Mel Brooks’ remake.)
A lively debate is presented featuring two enthusiastic Rabbinic movie aficionados– Rabbi Joseph Kolakowski and Rabbi Avramel Kivelevitz – along with YacovFreedman, Senior Podcast Producer at Turner Classic Movies -- as t...2023-08-0956 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastChanging society's view of Summer-an episode of the Chavrusa-Rabbi Kivelevitz Vs Rabbi WorchA Yeshiva of Newark Podcast Re-Release
2023-06-0631 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniImportant "Women" in our lives-Siri and AlexaAlexa, and Friends as Ladies in Waiting Created by Men: Implications & Fallout
Recounting that war directives to fighter pilots as well as propaganda (Tokyo Rose) usually made use of a femaleProf. Juni outlines the developmental logic of stereotyping women as nurturing and forgiving while men are typically placed into authoritative capable, and punishing roles, noting the consistency of this role division in Victorian and Protestant literature.
-- even as some have advanced a tone of impersonality to enhance an authoritative tone -- R. Kivelevitz outlines a number of negative repercussions of these2023-06-0231 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 73-Important "Women" in our Lives-Siri and Alexa Alexa, and Friends as Ladies in Waiting Created by Men: Implications & Fallout
The common assignation of the feminine gender to these entities which essentially manage the households of so many is the take-off point of a socio-cultural discussion of the history of gender choices for various family roles.
Recounting that war directives to fighter pilots as well as propaganda (Tokyo Rose) usually made use of a femaleradio broadcaster addressing soldiers, R. Kivelevitz notes the sexist aspects of some of the implicit stereotypes and the feminist reactions to them.
Prof. Juni outlines the...2023-06-0231 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastReb Mayer Kivelevitz a"h Yartzheit Shiur-You had me at Hello -Just what is Shailas Shalom?Just what is Shailas Shalom?
The Shiur is dedicated to the Aliyas Nishamah of
ר מאיר בן ציון בן רב ישראל ישעיה ז'ל
נפּטר כט אדר ראשון תש'ס
Reb' Mayer Kivelevitz a'h
on the occasion of his 23rd Yartzheit
תהלים כה יב
מִי-זֶה הָאִישׁ, יְרֵא ה יוֹרֶנּוּ, בְּדֶרֶךְ יִבְחָר.
תנצבצ'ה
This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate2023-03-211h 02Standing in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniWitness or Footnote-What Senior Citizens attendance at Young Persons' Weddings SignifiesRecognizing that there are no events without conflicting facets, R. Kivelevitz anchors the analysis of the emotional impact of the family wedding by zeroing in on the experiences of the “older generation” at the celebration. Belying the overt joy, he argues, there is an undercurrent of “the passing of the torch” with a sense that life is passing these folks by in favor of the new generation. Though not evident in the parents of the new couple because of their immediate involvement in the nuts and bolts of the event, these feelings are more palpable for the older generation.
Pr...2023-03-0932 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 72-Witness or Footnote-What Senior Citizens attendance at Young Persons' Weddings SignifiesRecognizing that there are no events without conflicting facets, R. Kivelevitz anchors the analysis of the emotional impact of the family wedding by zeroing in on the experiences of the “older generation” at the celebration. Belying the overt joy, he argues, there is an undercurrent of “the passing of the torch” with a sense that life is passing these folks by in favor of the new generation. Though not evident in the parents of the new couple because of their immediate involvement in the nuts and bolts of the event, these feelings are more palpable for the older generation.
Pr...2023-03-0932 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniPsycho Drama-Theater as a Medium of Self Awareness
The discussion begins with a review of a recent production of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” by a Modern Orthodox Jewish cast and crew at the Jerusalem Theater. Prof. Juni had organized a sizable group of friends and colleagues who attended the play and then participated in a focus group with the producer, crew, and key actors. The discussion is enriched by R. Kivelevitz’s encyclopedic mastery of the world of cinema and theater and its history.
The discussants compare and contrast the dynamics of the intended message (if any) which is evident in...2023-01-1050 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 71-Psycho Drama-Theater as a Medium of Self Awareness The discussion begins with a review of a recentproduction of “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” by a Modern Orthodox Jewish cast and crew at the Jerusalem Theater. Prof. Juni had organized a sizable group of friends and colleagues who attended the play and then participated in a focuseddiscussion group with the producer, crew, and key actors. The discussion is enriched by R. Kivelevitz’s encyclopedic mastery of the world of cinema and theater and its history.
The discussants compare and contrast the dynamics ofthe intended message (if any) which is evident in...2023-01-1050 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniThe thermo-therapeutic -dynamic of Jewish Stand-up HumorHow Contemporary Ethnic Stand-Up has Dragged Jewish Humor into the Gutter
We are witness to the recent appearance of Jewish stand-up comedians who – though allegedly grounded in PC/Woke equality and diversity principles – serve up anti-Jewish humor to appreciative wide audiences. The discussion begins with a focus on Ari Shaffir’s latest performance labeled “Jew” as a springboard for an overall analysis and debate of Jewish humor, branching out to Ethnic Humor and Self-Deprecating Humor, to the very essence of Humor Theory per se. Insofar as self-directed humor often serves as a disguised mode of criticism...2022-12-1336 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 70-The thermo-therapeutic -dynamic of Jewish Stand-up HumorHow Contemporary Ethnic Stand-Up has Dragged Jewish Humor into the Gutter
We are witness to the recent appearance of Jewish stand-up comedians who – though allegedly grounded in PC/Woke equality and diversity principles – serve up anti-Jewish humor to appreciative wide audiences. The discussion begins with a focus on Ari Shaffir’s latest performance labeled “Jew” as a springboard for an overall analysis and debate of Jewish humor, branching out to Ethnic Humor and Self-Deprecating Humor, to the very essence of Humor Theory per se. Insofar as self-directed humor often serves as a disguised mode of criticism...2022-12-1336 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 69-Plastering the Departed Person's Name on a Plaza won't Prolong Anything
The Memorial as a False Idol
The institution of naming streets and erecting buildings to honor heroes and others is scrutinized from sociological, psychological, and existential perspectives. As a parallel motif,the recent woke-grounded phenomenon of tearing down monuments and un-naming streets and endeavors is similarly analyzed. With some debate and qualifications,both discussants agree the intent in these namings is to keep the hero’s ideals alive for a long time, allowing him/her to exist even after death.
Prof. Juni argues that the extant dynamic here is anxiety about death...2022-11-0930 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniWhat FaceTime Has WroughtDistance Communication: Ultimate Facilitator of Knowledge or Bane of Intimacy?
R. Kivelevitz traces the social ramifications of distance communication – from the advent of letter writing to the world of modern electronics – in terms of interpersonal connectedness and the gradual eradication of privacy and personal space. Whereas face-to-face interactions are multi-sensory, letter writing provided communication that was limited to written words and content.Telephone added auditory context to words.
Juni stresses that intimacy is emotional and essentially bereft of context or informational exchange per se. He cites the halachic ritual of consoling the bereaved (Nichum Aveilim) wher...2022-10-1249 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni"Ani Lidodi Vidodi Li"- Contrasting and Conflating human and Divine concepts of IntimacyR. Kivelevitz begins by analyzing the superficial features of the formalities which trivialize true love and intimacy, and decries how these special days are often exploited by those merely seeking fleeting encounters. On the other hand, Prof. Juni argues in favor of programmed “closeness rituals” as he points out that the beauty of meaningful relationships is often lost in the routine of daily activities.
The essence and function of intimacy and close relationships are analyzed from the perspectives of social Marxism and family economics. Basic theoretical divides are elaborated by the discussants: From the Freudian notio...2022-09-1340 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 67-"Ani Lidodi Vidodi Li"- Contrasting and Conflating human and Divine concepts of IntimacyR. Kivelevitz begins by analyzing the superficial features of the formalities which trivialize true love and intimacy, and decries how these special days are often exploited by those merely seeking fleeting encounters. On the other hand, Prof. Juni argues in favor of programmed “closeness rituals” as he points out that the beauty of meaningful relationships is often lost in the routine of daily activities.
The essence and function of intimacy and close relationships are analyzed from the perspectives of social Marxism and family economics. Basic theoretical divides are elaborated by the discussants: From the Freudian notion that all r...2022-09-1340 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRabbis Shmuel Skaist and Avraham Kivelevitz represent Partzuphim- Going Against Protocol-A New type of Anti-Semitism in America?Due to the uptick of anti-semitic attacks again,and as we contemplate our life in Galus during the three weeks-we represent
a discussion Rabbi Skaist and I had about the tension between the African American community and Orthodox Jews and whether the anti-semitic attacks are an indicator of something new and different.
After hearing the program and the audio of Rabbi Skaist's 'Protocols'
Please leave us a review or email us at ravkiv@gmail.com
This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain...2022-07-1829 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni"Get to the Point, Already!"- Unraveling Stuttering and other disfluencies and The Prejudices that Surrounds themProf. Juni begins by charting humanity’s ignominious tradition of attributing malice onto those of us whose maladies we fail to understand. Even after prejudice toward the physically disabled began to wane, this ignoble tendency remained steadfast when we confronted illnesses with no blatant physical cause, and especially when we saw people behaving “irrationality. Moored in the legends of the archetypal Eve whose defiance of G-d’s anti-apple injunction was “necessarily” caused by an unholy alliance with the evil snake, we consequently burned “nefarious” witches, performed gruesome exorcisms on hapless victims who “obviously” consorted (implicitly or explicitly) with the devil, shamed thos...2022-07-1252 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-65-"Get to the Point, Already!"- Unraveling Stuttering and other disfluencies and The Prejudices that Surrounds themProf. Juni begins by charting humanity’s ignominious tradition of attributing malice onto those of us whose maladies we fail to understand. Even after prejudice toward the physically disabled began to wane, this ignoble tendency remained steadfast when we confronted illnesses with no blatant physical cause, and especially when we saw people behaving “irrationality. Moored in the legends of the archetypal Eve whose defiance of G-d’s anti-apple injunction was “necessarily” caused by an unholy alliance with the evil snake, we consequently burned “nefarious” witches, performed gruesome exorcisms on hapless victims who “obviously” consorted (implicitly or explicitly) with the devil, shamed thos...2022-07-1252 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniStreaming Overdoses and Social Media DepressionDrawing on Rabbi Kivelevitz’s extensive pastoral mentoring experience and Prof. Juni’s clinical and research findings, the discussants annotate how electronic media has insidiously been chipping away at the foundations of healthy interpersonal relationships and adaptive self-representations. These have especially as these have stymied healthy psychological development of adolescents. Initially, the telephone – and then radio entertainment and television -- fostered increased passivity. Then, as we went from email to instant messaging, the notions of downtime, leisurely conversations, curling up with a book, living-in-the-world, and even taking time to ponder were steadily banished to the realm of the boring. These h...2022-05-1246 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 63-Streaming Overdoses and Social Media DepressionProf. Juni couches this tsunami in terms of Object Relations Theory which posits that meaningful interpersonal relationships entail a basic human need. The patterns described above have thus been tearing at the very essence of the human experience, and their psychiatric repercussions are of no surprise to Mental Health professionals.
As for stemming the tide in general, and specific family reparative strategies, Dr. Juni insists that the horse has left the barn and envisions no reasonable corrective strategies. The discussants do, however, explore some options which may blunt its repercussions in terms of self-concept and fa...2022-05-1246 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni"...Vies Sigmundasa!" A Freudian take on Haman and AchashveiroshWith just a tad of frivolity, Rabbi Kivelevitz and Prof. Juni conduct joint armchair psychoanalysis of the Purim narrative. With Kivelevitz highlighting the textual nuances in the primary scenes, Dr. Juni presents the serious pathology of narcissism as a character disorder of both Achashverosh and Haman, while Kivelevitz hones in on impulse control issues of the protagonists. Juni explains the irrational, grandiose, and self-defeating behaviors by pointing out that the pursuit of narcissistic self-aggrandizement is nothing more than a desperate effort to avoid repetitions of early traumatic disappointment, hurt, and embarrassment. Taking the socio-cultural perspectives, Kivelevitz shows how personal...2022-03-1657 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds- Episode 61-"...Vies Sigmundasa!" A Freudian take on Haman and AchashveiroshWith just a tad of frivolity, Rabbi Kivelevitz and Prof. Juni conduct joint armchair psychoanalysis of the Purim narrative. With Kivelevitz highlighting the textual nuances in the primary scenes, Dr. Juni presents the serious pathology of narcissism as a character disorder of both Achashverosh and Haman, while Kivelevitz hones in on impulse control issues of the protagonists. Juni explains the irrational, grandiose, and self-defeating behaviors by pointing out that the pursuit of narcissistic self-aggrandizement is nothing more than a desperate effort to avoid repetitions of early traumatic disappointment, hurt, and embarrassment. Taking the socio-cultural perspectives, Kivelevitz shows how personal...2022-03-1657 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniThe Neurotic Minefields of a Second Marriage
Financial issues often are seen as engendering suspicion and mistrust in all relationships, and these are particularly exacerbated in remarriages where there are adult children in the picture. Guilt and betrayal are major factors of distress which appear if the previous spouse is deceased, but much less prevalent following divorces. Responding to the question whether people should remarry or merely share each other's company in a constant manner, Juni opines that there are clear pro and con reasons for both options in every situation, and that there are always distinct positive and negative repercussions inherent in any...2022-02-1748 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 59-The Neurotic Minefields of a Second MarriageProf. Juni begins with the assertion that first marriages and subsequent ones are equally legitimate efforts, and that their rationales are identical. Rabbi Kivelevitz notes loneliness and the need for companionship as a major theme in remarriages. Juni counters that limiting certain motifs (e.g., love, sexuality, bashert / soul-mates) solely to the first relationship is erroneous and deceptive. The discussants outline inevitable emotional tensions and practical hurdles in second relationships. Kivelevitz highlights challenges these are most troublesome in reconstituted families with younger children.
Financial issues often are seen as engendering suspicion and mistrust in all relationships, and t...2022-02-1748 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniThe Witness is Excused-Mourning the Last Holocaust SurvivorsThe perspective of Second Generation Survivors on the crucial testimony of the Holocaust generation is outlined, along with the unverbalized taboos (sacred cows) about the victims. R. Kivelevitz points out that personal histories are crucial to survivors and their families despite the subjective nature of anecdotal narratives, arguing that anecdotes are ideal in allowing the catharsis of painful experiences. Taking the position of witness psychology, Prof. Juni describes the creative, fill-in-the-blanks process which characterize all retrospective memories as he presents the contemporary forensic maxims which eschew the reliability of the testimony of witnesses to crime. Based in his clinical...2021-12-2444 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 55-The Witness is Excused-Mourning the Last Holocaust SurvivorsThe perspective of Second Generation Survivors on the crucial testimony of the Holocaust generation is outlined, along with the unverbalized taboos (sacred cows) about the victims. R. Kivelevitz points out that personal histories are crucial to survivors and their families despite the subjective nature of anecdotal narratives, arguing that anecdotes are ideal in allowing the catharsis of painful experiences. Taking the position of witness psychology, Prof. Juni describes the creative, fill-in-the-blanks process which characterize all retrospective memories as he presents the contemporary forensic maxims which eschew the reliability of the testimony of witnesses to crime. Based in his clinical...2021-12-2444 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniBundle of Nerves-The Effects of Weather and Climate on Mental HealthThree weather and climate factors which are often correlated to emotional difficulties are outlined by Prof. Juni, as he elaborates the diagnostic category of Seasonal Affective Disorders. The most prominent factor relates to diminished exposure to natural light, specifically as it sometimes engenders anomalies in the circadian rhythm. The primary psychiatric fallout from disturbance in circadian rhythm is clinical depression. In the forensic literature, extreme temperatures have also been documented to reduce personal and emotional resilience – especially under stress conditions. The latter is mostly manifest in the increase of violent crimes during hot heather in urban centers. The third de...2021-12-1636 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 54-Bundle of Nerves-The Effects of Weather and Climate on Mental HealthThree weather and climate factors which are often correlated to emotional difficulties are outlined by Prof. Juni, as he elaborates the diagnostic category of Seasonal Affective Disorders. The most prominent factor relates to diminished exposure to natural light, specifically as it sometimes engenders anomalies in the circadian rhythm. The primary psychiatric fallout from disturbance in circadian rhythm is clinical depression. In the forensic literature, extreme temperatures have also been documented to reduce personal and emotional resilience – especially under stress conditions. The latter is mostly manifest in the increase of violent crimes during hot heather in urban centers. The third de...2021-12-1636 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniPlumbing the Psychoses of School Shooters ,Political Assassins-Suicide Bombers. and Serial KillersThe social and psychological determinants of apparently senseless killings are analyzed. The basic attributions to the availability of guns, violence in the media, and radical ideology are critically evaluated. Prof. Juni argues against the grouping of lone mass shooters (who have keen psychiatric disturbances related to their own traumatic histories) with religious terrorists (who do not necessarily manifest clear personal disorders). Prevention strategies and education of gatekeepers are debated. Dr. Juni points out that many of these individuals suffer from atrocious parenting histories, suggesting that secondary prevention efforts might be more effective in counseling individuals before they become parents – an...2021-12-1043 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 53-Plumbing the Psychoses of School Shooters ,Political Assassins ,Suicide Bombers. and Serial KillersThe social and psychological determinants of apparently senseless killings are analyzed. The basic attributions to the availability of guns, violence in the media, and radical ideology are critically evaluated. Prof. Juni argues against the grouping of lone mass shooters (who have keen psychiatric disturbances related to their own traumatic histories) with religious terrorists (who do not necessarily manifest clear personal disorders). Prevention strategies and education of gatekeepers are debated. Dr. Juni points out that many of these individuals suffer from atrocious parenting histories, suggesting that secondary prevention efforts might be more effective in counseling individuals before they become parents – an...2021-12-1043 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniJingling the Chanukah Guilt-Comfort Food & Self-Calming Habits: Are They Really Bad for You? Doctor Samuel Juni is one of the foremost researchpsychologists in the world today. He has published groundbreaking originalresearch in seventy different peer reviewed journals and is cited continuouslywith respect by colleagues and experts in the field who have built on histheories and observations. Samuel Juni studied in Yeshivas Chaim Berlin underRav Yitzchack Hutner, and in Yeshiva University as a Talmid of Rav Joseph DovSoloveitchick. Professor Juni is a board member of the Association of Orthodox JewishScientists and has regularly presented addresses to captivated audiences.A...2021-11-1437 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 50-Jingling the Chanukah Guilt-Comfort Food & Self-Calming Habits: Are They Really Bad for You?With the Channukah season replete with latkes and chocolates on the horizon, Rabbi Kivelevitz focuses on the snacking response to overcome unpleasantries. He questions if there is an implicit maladjustment in such behavior. Responding with an emphatic “No,” Doctor Juni elaborates the warning signals of excess and pathology of behaviors which are typically in the normal realm. Referencing Psychosexual Developmental Theory, Juni explores the common go-to repertoires which we all use in stressful situations. Highlighting illustrative examples of unusual coping strategies, Kivelevitz proposes that problematic parenting styles may promote psychopathology in interpersonal relationships, anxiety management, and self-concept among teens and...2021-11-1437 min
Standing in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniPoint Blank Alec Baldwin!-Featuring Sam Juni as the Psychologist and Avraham Kivelevitz as the Rabbi
2021-10-2754 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds Productions Presents : Point Blank Alec Baldwin!-Featuring Sam Juni as the Psychologist and Avraham Kivelevitz as the Rabbi2021-10-2754 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniMembers of Curious Yoel-Behind the Outrage of Teen Marriages-Special Guest Rav Nosson Nota GlickThe causes of the recent organized efforts promoting teen marriages in the Chassidic community are analyzed from different perspectives, Prof. Juni juxtaposes these arrangements to those in specific Islamic countries and cults, arguing that many of the travesties in arranged marriages of minors are to be found in Shidduch matches of young adults as well. Developmental, religious, and cultural features on intimate relationships, marriage, and sexuality are charted out by the discussants. Rabbi Glueck presents the Kabbalistic and Chassidic perspective on marriage and sexuality, while Rabbi Kivelevitz partials out the Halakhic factors from the mix. Based on his consults...2021-10-1955 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 48-Members of Curious Yoel-Behind the Outrage of Teen Marriages-Special Guest Rav Nosson Nota GlickThe causes of the recent organized efforts promoting teen marriages in the Chassidic community are analyzed from different perspectives, Prof. Juni juxtaposes these arrangements to those in specific Islamic countries and cults, arguing that many of the travesties in arranged marriages of minors are to be found in Shidduch matches of young adults as well. Developmental, religious, and cultural features on intimate relationships, marriage, and sexuality are charted out by the discussants. Rabbi Glueck presents the Kabbalistic and Chassidic perspective on marriage and sexuality, while Rabbi Kivelevitz partials out the Halakhic factors from the mix. Based on his consults...2021-10-1955 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniBeneficial Diminution-Vacation from work and relationships
Rabbi Kivelevitz begins by outlining cultural differences between the United States, Europe, and Israel regarding vacation policies for workers, maternity leave, and the afternoon siesta. The question is whether vacations and breaks are good for people and for the jobs they perform. Doctor Juni sees this question as dependent on how we see the role of work. He presents the prevalent tenets of Vocational Psychology, as formulated by Donald Super, which posits that work is an intrinsic aspect of human existence and self-esteem. This view is seen as consistent with descriptions in various cultures and settings, we...2021-10-0656 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 47-Beneficial Diminution-Vacation from work and relationshipsRabbi Kivelevitz begins by outlining cultural differences between the United States, Europe, and Israel regarding vacation policies for workers, maternity leave, and the afternoon siesta. The question is whether vacations and breaks are good for people and for the jobs they perform. Doctor Juni sees this question as dependent on how we see the role of work. He presents the prevalent tenets of Vocational Psychology, as formulated by Donald Super, which posits that work is an intrinsic aspect of human existence and self-esteem. This view is seen as consistent with descriptions in various cultures and settings, we are useless...2021-10-0656 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniConcentrated Effort-The Struggle to Stay Focused over the Long Yom Kippur Service
Rabbi Kivelevitz and Professor Juni analyze and critique a number of factors which lead many of us to become distracted during prayers. Dr. Juni explains that each person has physiologically optimal position on the dimension of input stimulation for perceptual and cognitive processing. This dimension ranges from some who need relative quiet to concentrate to those who can ONLY concentrate in the presence of significant additional sensory input (e.g. spinners, noise, swaying, swaying, music). Many with ADD fall into the latter half of this dimension. Every person has his own level of stimulation he or...2021-09-1537 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniRosh HaShana Mindset-No excuses on Judgement Day-Why we continue to act in ways that we know will have negative repercussions This episode begins with Doctor Juni outlining his work withpsychiatric criminal populations and his efforts exploring their personal perspective about theirbehavior.
By in large ,most of these people realized that they were acting in a harmfulmanner that would yield negative consequences. Juni relates this to actions and decisions of world leaders,including the last two US presidents.
To properly grasp why this phenomena persists ,Dr. Junipoints to two ingrained dynamics which originate in early child developmentduring a period where the child has little understanding of re...2021-08-3138 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 45- Rosh HaShana Mindset-No excuses on Judgement Day-Why we continue to act in ways that we know will have negative repercussions
This episode begins with Doctor Juni outlining his work withpsychiatric criminal populations and his efforts exploring their personal perspective about theirbehavior.
By in large ,most of these people realized that they were acting in a harmfulmanner that would yield negative consequences. Juni relates this to actions and decisions of world leaders,including the last two US presidents.
To properly grasp why this phenomena persists ,Dr. Junipoints to two ingrained dynamics which originate in early child developmentduring a period where the child has littl...2021-08-3137 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniTwisted or Enlightened- Definitions of Courage-Has Simone Biles' Withdrawal From Olympic Competition Been a Boon for Mental Health Appreciation? As sports was the starting point of the conversation, Doctor Juni is spurred to outline the attitude toward sport competition which prevailed within the insular culture of his youth,where the notion of the body as a temple was viewed as a heretical feature of a Hellenic society , the antithesis of scholarship (in general) and Talmudic scholarship (specifically).
Rabbi Kivelevitz remarks that the supportive reaction to Simone Biles bowing out of the Olympic competition is an unusual phenomenon in the world of sports and its pundits. A bending-over-backwards forgiving perspective excusing an idealized icon, a larger-than-life hero, fr...2021-08-0444 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniFactitious Disorders-Is the meshulach perennially at your door appealing for their child suffering from Munchausen's syndrome by proxy?As the more colorful of Factitious Disorders, Munchausen’s Disease by Proxy is analyzed as a condition which entails difficulties in reality testing by patients who see themselves as trying to achieve good health by denying their underlying motivations and their harmful behavior, Prof. Juni explains that Munchausen family members also have a severe overidentification problem as they subsume the life of the sick family member into their identity and choose to live out their own emotionality of sickness through the sick experience of their loved ones. Dr. Juni cautions that Factitious Disorders can be a default diagnosis affixed by...2021-07-0524 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 41-Resisting Possession-The deep roots of obsessive collecting- hoarding-and holding on to toxic friendshipsProf. Juni begins by clarifying that hoarding and other behavioral anomalies are considered psychiatrically pathological only if they interfere significantly with daily, relational, and vocational functioning. The commonalities of hoarding and addiction are outlined. Not letting go is described by Juni as due to anomalies in early childhood toilet training period. R. Kivelevitz argues that a history of poverty and deprivation may be sufficient to explain the excitement of object acquisition without resorting to arcane psychoanalytic principles. Besides pathological hoarding reactions, Juni argues that the hoarding mentality extends to difficulties dissolving friendships which have run their course and prevents...2021-06-1646 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni"Things will straighten themselves out" From whence does this disastrous "Yehiyeh Tov" attitude derive?An unrealistic optimistic stance is a common response to challenges and crises. R. Kivelevitz points to the general Israeli reaction to recent group accident tragedies among Israeli Haredim and the odd oblivious reaction in the victims’ cohorts. Prof. Juni adds to the mix the Israeli pattern of reckless driving and the fact that many are unfazed by the chronic threat from Gaza. He outlines the classic developmental understanding of positivity in people as based on the childhood experience of the omnipotent father who can do anything. As the child matures and realizes that he or she is not under co...2021-05-2543 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniStaying up all night this Shavuos? Understand what you'll be missing- Psychological Purpose of Dreams
Sleep deprivation is marked by its physiological repercussions and its negative effects on cognitive and psychological functioning. Stressing that dreaming is essentially entails a detour from reality testing as one dives into fantasy, Prof. Juni limits his comments to the latter as he discusses the psychoanalytic formulation of the purpose of dreams. He argues that dreaming is a regression to an irrational world of early childhood which almost resembles psychotic thinking. Adults are socialized to censor primitive basic thoughts and emotions. The dream process allows adults to revert to their natural basic primitive functioning mode each night f...2021-05-1152 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 39- Staying up all night this Shavuos? Understand what you'll be missing- Psychological Purpose of DreamsAdults are socialized to censor primitive basic thoughts and emotions. The dream process allows adults to revert to their natural basic primitive functioning mode each night for a limited time, with the understanding that they can then return to adult style functioning by repressing the details of that journey. The inability to remember dream contents is affected by repression. R. Kivelevitz pointed out that people vary -- from having no access to their dreams at all, to those who are very distressed and haunted by dreams that they remember vividly. Juni explained that neither of those extremes are typical...2021-05-1152 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds-Episode 38-Report from Israel after the Deaths in Meron- Making Peace within ourselves : The psychological underpinnings of our desire to visit hallowed gravesites This manifest, as well, in the benign neglect of dangerous violations of Covid regulations by Haredim, which persisted for a while, until they were perceived as endangering the population at large .Juni summarizes in non-scientific terms the technical aspects of danger that persist in the pandemic even in populations with widespread immunization program, specifically highlighting mutational dangers among the non-vaccinated which can break the vaccination barrier to endanger the entire population.
Analyzing the general Israeli reaction to the Meron tragedy, the discussants analyze the nature of the profound vilification of Haredim by the Israeli public. The reciprocal cond...2021-05-041h 00Standing in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniScars and Scabs-Yom HaZikoron continuously reveals the massive rift in Israeli Society and divisions between all mankind
The understandable reaction of families who lost a loved one are analyzed from a psychoanalytic perspective from the lens of Survivor Guilt. Drawing from his studies with families of Holocaust victims, Profesor Juni presents the dynamics of coping mechanisms, which usually results in attributing blame to others, to oneself, to God, or to the victim. Guilt is seen as intrinsically ties to such coping.
Rabbi Kivelevitz challenges this view, suggesting that mourning does not seem to entail guilt as a rule. The discussants then tackle the mutual hostility evident between families who have lost loved...2021-04-1346 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 36- Scars and Scabs-Yom HaZikoron continuously reveals the massive rift in Israeli Society and divisions between all mankindThe understandable reaction of families who lost a loved one are analyzed from a psychoanalytic perspective from the lens of Survivor Guilt. Drawing from his studies with families of Holocaust victims, Profesor Juni presents the dynamics of coping mechanisms, which usually results in attributing blame to others, to oneself, to God, or to the victim. Guilt is seen as intrinsically ties to such coping.
Rabbi Kivelevitz challenges this view, suggesting that mourning does not seem to entail guilt as a rule. The discussants then tackle the mutual hostility evident between families who have lost loved ones serving...2021-04-1346 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniMonagamous Uber Alles Herr Doktor-Psychological Pitfalls of Polygamy and May-December MarriagesReferencing Andrew Solomon’s recent expose in the New Yorker on the challenges to traditional family structure by polygamist and polyamorist lifestyles, Professor Juni and Rabbi Kivelevitz engage a range of social antecedents with a particular focus on Biblical and Rabbinic sources, with a focus on the quality of marital relationships and optimal child development. Juni prefaces his presentation, citing his study of bigamy in the Mormon community – which they refer to as "Biblical Marriage" and his research work with bigamous couples in the Native-American, Bedouin, and Black Hebrew communities. He stresses that the alternative lifestyles often confuse sexual activity with...2021-04-0746 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding In Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 35-Monagamous Uber Alles Herr Doktor-Psychological Pitfalls of Polygamy and May-December MarriagesReferencing Andrew Solomon’s recent expose in the New Yorker on the challenges to traditional family structure by polygamist and polyamorist lifestyles, Professor Juni and Rabbi Kivelevitz engage a range of social antecedents with a particular focus on Biblical and Rabbinic sources, with a focus on the quality of marital relationships and optimal child development. Juni prefaces his presentation, citing his study of bigamy in the Mormon community – which they refer to as "Biblical Marriage" and his research work with bigamous couples in the Native-American, Bedouin, and Black Hebrew communities. He stresses that the alternative lifestyles often confuse sexual activity with...2021-04-0746 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniThe Pesach Seder Organizes and Defines Family Identity and allows the airing out of Painful TraumaSome of our personal identities include much more than ourselves. The concept of family and identity is posited to be inherently founded on common rituals and narratives. Some of these are religious, but many are tinged by personalized events and interpretations of reality and history. Many may even be bizarre, distorted, or untrue. Dr. Juni conceptualizes such artifacts as part of the required social-psychological features of group identity: defining others are outsiders to give one’s own group or family the feeling of being insiders........Rabbi Kivelevitz focuses on the Passover Seder as a family event which combines cultural and fa...2021-03-1656 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Sam Juni-Episode 34-The Pesach Seder Organizes and Defines Family Identity and allows the airing out of Painful TraumaSome of our personal identities include much more than ourselves. The concept of family and identity is posited to be inherently founded on common rituals and narratives. Some of these are religious, but many are tinged by personalized events and interpretations of reality and history. Many may even be bizarre, distorted, or untrue. Dr. Juni conceptualizes such artifacts as part of the required social-psychological features of group identity: defining others are outsiders to give one’s own group or family the feeling of being insiders........Rabbi Kivelevitz focuses on the Passover Seder as a family event which combines cultural and fa...2021-03-1656 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniSeuss-More Doctor than you realize-Children's Psychology and Literature Should serve the same needThe episode begins as the discussants share their reactions to the current trend of censorship by the Western Liberal establishment. Proffesor Juni shares the current “They are coming for us” atmosphere pervading the world of academia in the wake of Cancel Culture by the Woke, where the tribunal of hearsay and constructive narrative reigns unchallenged....
....Juni raises the specter of outright book banning and book burnings which have consistently characterized fascist anti-freedom regimes. He goes on to stress that censoring of unacceptable aspects of literature and art results in distorted caricatures of the real world, with all its has inherent faul...2021-03-0957 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 33-Seuss-More Doctor than you realize-Children's Psychology and Literature Should serve the same needThe episode begins as the discussants share their reactions to the current trend of censorship by the Western Liberal establishment. Proffesor Juni shares the current “They are coming for us” atmosphere pervading the world of academia in the wake of Cancel Culture by the Woke, where the tribunal of hearsay and constructive narrative reigns unchallenged....
....Juni raises the specter of outright book banning and book burnings which have consistently characterized fascist anti-freedom regimes. He goes on to stress that censoring of unacceptable aspects of literature and art results in distorted caricatures of the real world, with all its has inherent faul...2021-03-0957 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniSystems Theory Shatters the Idyllic Grandparent MythRabbi Kivelevitz begins the discussion by observing that the Pandemic has disrupted the life of the extended family, inducing various stresses............ .........Professor Juni, drawing upon General Systems Theory with a particular focus on Triangulation, Alliances, and Coalitions charts out the negative as well as the positive roles grandparents have in families – highlighting specific divisiveness they tend to exacerbate between the spousal couple and in the parent-child relationship. In contrast to the notion that dyadic relationships are the building blocks of interpersonal units, Juni elaborates the primacy of the triangular interplay between three people, stressing that it typically features one positively en...2021-03-0259 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniBlunting Judgment and Banishing Inhibition-Viewing Purim Customs in the twin lights of psychology and sociologyIn anticipation of Purim, Doctor Juni and Rabbi Kivelevitz discuss various aspects of the traditional celebration. Juni comments that encouraging inebriation is dangerous on several levels,while Kivelevitz contextualizes the origin of Purim shenanigans – especially drinking with abandon to (עד דלא ידע) -- in the millennia of oppression Jews have suffered, seeing it as a type of safety valve . Abandoning the community's usual grim reality provided a relief to the relentless misery.
Juni asserts that moderate social drinking and having a "shot" after a long day is not maladaptive. He outlines the psychology and chemistry of what occurs for one who is liquored up. He pre...2021-02-1653 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 31-Blunting Judgment and Banishing Inhibition-Viewing Purim Customs in the twin lights of psychology and sociologyIn anticipation of Purim, Doctor Juni and Rabbi Kivelevitz discuss various aspects of the traditional celebration. Juni comments that encouraging inebriation is dangerous on several levels,while Kivelevitz contextualizes the origin of Purim shenanigans – especially drinking with abandon to (עד דלא ידע) -- in the millennia of oppression Jews have suffered, seeing it as a type of safety valve . Abandoning the community's usual grim reality provided a relief to the relentless misery.
Juni asserts that moderate social drinking and having a "shot" after a long day is not maladaptive. He outlines the psychology and chemistry of what occurs for one who is liquored up. He pre...2021-02-1653 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 29- Covid-19's Collateral Damage: Aggravated Hypochondria and Fresh PhobiasRabbi Kivelevitz cites a study published in Lancet that proves a precipitous increase of anxiety-related symptomatology during the current Covid pandemic. Doctor Juni responds to this with an exposition of dynamics of anxiety disorders, phobias, and hypochondriasis, as well as a sketch of advisable interventions.
The Professor explains what psychosomatic medicine was, and explores the chicken-egg issue of the physiology and psychology of mental illness, along with the psychiatric comorbidity of chronic medical conditions.
In general, Juni stresses the irrationality of phobias, while asserting that criteria of rationality are intrinsically socially defined by social norms rather than by unassailable reason.
...2021-02-1550 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 30-Truth isn't the point-Our Verbal Arguments are a Civilized form of the Caveman's MalletDoes speech channel aggression or elevate our instincts?
There are current raging arguments in Israel about the vagaries of social distancing and the fierce post-election political debates in the USA. The common feature in all of these is a sense that the parties are yelling at each other rather than talking to each other, sharing new information, or exchanging perspectives. R. Kivelevitz structures this phenomenon as an apparent breakdown in communication, using it as a stimulus to examine the psychology and sociology of argumentation in general. Pursuing this end, Prof. Juni brings in findings and concepts from the Arab-Israeli Roundtables...2021-02-1554 minStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniWhere Has Communication gone? Understanding Irrational ArgumentsThere are current raging arguments in Israel about the vagaries of social distancing and the fierce post-election political debates in the USA. The common feature in all of these is a sense that the parties are yelling at each other rather than talking to each other, sharing new information, or exchanging perspectives. R. Kivelevitz structures this phenomenon as an apparent breakdown in communication, using it as a stimulus to examine the psychology and sociology of argumentation in general. Pursuing this end, Prof. Juni brings in findings and concepts from the Arab-Israeli Roundtables he chaired for a decade and from his...2021-02-1554 min
Standing in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam JuniCovid-19's Collateral Damage: Aggravated Hypochondria and Fresh PhobiasRabbi Kivelevitz cites a study published in Lancet that proves a precipitous increase of anxiety-related symptomatology during the current Covid pandemic. Doctor Juni responds to this with an exposition of dynamics of anxiety disorders, phobias, and hypochondriasis, as well as a sketch of advisable interventions.
The Professor explains what psychosomatic medicine was, and explores the chicken-egg issue of the physiology and psychology of mental illness, along with the psychiatric comorbidity of chronic medical conditions.
In general, Juni stresses the irrationality of phobias, while asserting that criteria of rationality are intrinsically socially defined by social norms rather than by unassailable reason.
...2021-01-2650 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa Season 2 Episode 21-REVEL-ling in Past Possibilities--How America would have been different had Rav Shimon Shkop accepted the post of Rosh Yeshiva at RIETS in 1929Rischa's second foray into speculative what-if scenarios begins with an elaborate set-up of the Lithuanian Yeshiva -American Monies connection of the 1920's and the major role played by visionaries like Rabbi Dov Revel.Rabbi Kivelevitz provides the salient specifics of the founding and flourishing of Yeshivas Shaar HaTorah in Grodno.Rabbi Bechhofer confirms Kivelevitz's assessment of the unique skillset and persona that combined within Rav Shimon Yehuda Shkop Zt'l that made him the perfect catalyst for growth and quantitative advancement for the motivated Ben Torah of the early 20th Century and why the administration of Yeshivas Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan made...2021-01-2442 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni Episode 28-Food Flight:What those extra pounds we're putting on during Covid tell us about our psycheRabbi Kivelevitz sets the "table" by stating that the Covid Pandemic is keeping many people at home and close to their refrigerators and pantries, making them vulnerable to the enticement of comfort foods.Doctor. Juni outlines the essential features of any comforting stimuli as being linked to familiarity, availability, and a primary association with pleasant feelings. Kivelevitz speculates that in the face of mature adult-type concerns for safety, resorting to eating seems a form of regression to primitive early childhood basics. Juni deepens the idea by indicating the phenomenon as a defensive form for denial, where all issues cease to...2021-01-1945 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa Season 2 Episode 20-Kovetz Hasharos Udimyonos-What if Rav Elchanan Wasserman had not died a martyr's death and had escaped to AmericaBeginning a new What if series on Jewish topics.With a premise that significant alternate fiction is built on assiduous research and knowledge of the persons and milieu, Rabbi Kivelevitz states that he and Rabbi Bechhofer have to be steeped somewhat in the ideas and personage under discussion. As both of them as teen agers, were exposed to the Torah of Rav Elchanan Wasserman, his hashkofos, and martyr's death ,the speculation as to how America would have been different had he remained here from 1938 onwards seemed a project they could tackle.Bechhofer claims that due to his hardline views as...2021-01-1742 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 27 -Mob Mentality-Dressing to KillSobered by the attack on the Capitol January 6th, Kivelevitz and Juni deem it important to examine individual behavior when tethered to an extremist group.Moving beyond the Trumpist yahoos, Kivelevitz invokes situations as varied as Woodstock, early 20th century lynchings, the George Floyd protests, Messianic Cult tragedies, Nazi Germany demonstrations, and the not always benign manifestations of what occurs yearly in Uman. Juni explains that mob mentality is essentially a negation of personal identity along with any personal values or judgment in favor of a grotesque form of amalgamation. The doctor underscores that such behavior occurs primarily in groups...2021-01-1343 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa Season 2 Episode 19-Facing up to the Insurrection Facts -Perspectives of First Lady Bechhofer : Humble Condemnations paired with a Reckoning of conscience and fearing the dangerous lieThe program begins with a short tribute to Rav Yehudah Kelemer Zt"l,who passed away Erev Shabbas,with Rabbi Bechhofer highlighting his unmatched humility and middos and dedication to kiruv which obscured the niftar's greatness in lomdus and Halacha.Rabbi Kivelevitz notes how Rav Kelemer's psakim and example led to the acceptance and respect for many heretofore marginalized members of Jewish society.Based on her cogent statements on the attack on the Capitol, Bechhofer and Kivelevitz invite Rebbitzen Shani Bechhofer to comment on the misinformation and controversy surrounding the events on January 6th in Washington.The three discussants share...2021-01-1047 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 26-Left in our own devices-Mental Health might depend on restricting use of virtual mediaSmart-phone addiction, time wallowing video games, trolling in chatrooms, obsessive twitter checking, these are all part of the new normal.Doctor Juni reminds us that the toll on personality, relationships, and mental health has been significant. Rabbi Kivelevitz responds that electronic devices and platforms have been lifelines to many during the Covid Pandemic. The discussants then begin an examination of key aspects of the connection between immersion in electronic communication devices and problematic mental health. Kivelevitz notes that gadgets have fostered psychological alienation by eliminating direct human conversation and interactions. Juni stresses that the devices also enable many to communicate...2021-01-0657 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa Season 2-Episode 18- Contemplating and Relishing Alternate Realities: President Trump-Rav Avigdor Miller Zt"l-Feinstein Family FantasiesThe forty-five minute episode deals with three interrelated subjects.The Rabbis begin the program debating whether it is correct to equate the wild charges of voter fraud and claim of a stolen election by the President's staunch supporters with the four years of declaring Trump's victory illegitimate by the Democrats and the media. Bechhofer rejects the inexact comparison which if repeated enough, obfuscate the terrible management of the country under Trump's helm.Kivelevitz pressures Bechhofer to admit to achievements wrought by the administration in relations with the State of Israel and the advancements of peace in the region. He also...2021-01-0345 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 25- Driving Yourself Crazy-How our Cars transform usRabbi Kivelevitz begins the episode by noting that the mentality of many drivers is inconsistent with their normal behavior, citing in particular that road rage is often triggered in people who are not usually aggressive and that drivers – and particularly Israeli drivers --often engage in overly risky behaviors. Professor Juni responds by delineating the psychological profile of such a driver as an anonymous individual who becomes transformed into a dehumanized extension of the vehicle, as s/he regressed to a competitive primitive survivalist existence.Commenting on the outrageous driving behavior of some Israelis, Juni explains this as deriving from the “livi...2020-12-2934 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 24-Yiddishkeit during Yuletide- Living as a Minority with a Majority CultureRabbi Kivelevitz and Professor Juni begin by recounting their respective experiences growing up in predominantly Christian neighborhoods. Both recall being enamored by the holiday spirit of goodwill and a sense of people attempting to overcome their negative tendencies. Kivelevitz recalls being enthralled by the holiday season music, decorations, and neighbors’ family get-togethers. In the same vein, Juni recalls his guilt appreciating the beauty of the choral music, and his awe of holiday services heard from the open church doors in the slum where he grew up. During this season, he observed the transformation of threatening personages into respectable-looking worshippers, as he...2020-12-2340 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 23-Chanukah: Unsheathing the Aggressive Persona- Normalcy vs PathologyRabbi Kivelevitz grounds the discussion by pointing out that Chanukah celebrates the triumph of Jewish aggression and violence perpetrated by the Kohanim (Temple priests) whose function was traditionally peaceful, scholarly, and spiritual, and highlights that the Hasmonean dynasty was subsequently plagued by internecine enmity and bloodshed which led to the destruction of the Judaic kingdom. Kivelevitz conjectures that this was the result of the release of overt aggression from the Pandora’s Box where Jewish society had kept it sealed. Professor Juni begins his presentation of aggression by stating that it is a basic inborn human trait rather than merely be...2020-12-1638 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 22 -The slippery slope of Secular HumanismRabbi Kivelevitz begins the podcast by noting recent social events where contemporary notions of human rights are given precedence to traditional ideas of religious freedom. He particularly points to such causes as climate change and environmental consciousness as values which gained high visibility. Prof. Juni then addresses the religious, psychological, and psychiatric notions of morality and values. He points out that many modern thinkers have promoted the notion that science can be the basis for human values, in contrast to Locke and other philosophers whose notions of human rights were based on divine revelation (as incorporated into the U.S...2020-12-0938 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa-Season 2 Episode 14-Reversing Footsteps-Reaching those who have left Charedi lifeMoved by an article in the New Yorker that sketches the travails and anguish of formerly Chasidic persons who have left frumkeit, Rabbi Kivelevitz asks Rabbi Bechhofer if there is a method to reach these persons before organizations like Footsteps push them beyond a point of no return to any semblance of practicing religious behavior.Bechhofer indicates the fine work being done by a Jew in the City,but is pessimistic of ever seeing a strong success rate due to the milieu that fostered the disenchantment to begin with, and the skeptical attitude of many Chasidic parents towards the outreach...2020-12-0730 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni Episode 21-Cowered by the Command : Be fruitful-The conundrum faced by a couple with fertility issues-Extreme medical intervention or adoptionInspired by Tamara Jenkins’s critically acclaimed Private Life, detailing a husband and wife's struggles to have a child, Doctor Juni sets forth some steep psychological challenges that threaten any happy resolution to many Orthodox couples faced with the same quandary confronting the fictional characters in the film.Rabbi Kivelevitz points out that adoption was originally restricted to orphans and viewed solely as an act of kindness to abandoned children. The discussants outline the religious, cultural, and psychological aspects of the Fertility Anguish Syndrome.Kivelevitz eloquently depicts the prevalent pain of childlessness which he sees as a potential threat to th...2020-12-0238 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 20 -Viewing Genesis through the lens of Adlerian Birth Order theoryRabbi Kivelevitz begins the discussion by requesting an analysis of the rich biblical narratives of the Patriarchs’ relationships with their siblings, spouses, and children. This engenders a joint exploration of the biblical themes of favoritism among children, sibling rivalry, and the mutability of the first-born role – as well as the positive vs negative effects of these phenomena. Based on Adlerian personality theory as systemized in Walter Toman’s Family Constellation Its Effects on Personality and Social Behavior, Prof. Juni outlines the immutable character traits of oldest siblings, youngest siblings, the middle child, and the only child – including strengths and weaknesses. Juni hig...2020-11-2552 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa-Special Edition with Rabbi Mark Gottlieb-Placing the Lord in Context-Appraising Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Z"l contribution to world philosophy and Torah scholarshipRabbi Mark Gottlieb,senior director of the Tikvah fund and respected intellectual spokesman responds to Rabbis Kivelevitz and Bechhofer'sRischa Daraiisa 10 which featured a woefully inadequate appreciation for Rabbi Jonathan Sacks,and helps put the late Rov's world view in perspective as well as finding surprising influences for the main current of Sacks' views on realistic Jewish activism.Joining Rabbi Kivelevitz on a special mid-week episode, Gottlieb expands a bit on the memoriam he penned for First Things and revisits the controversy caused by the first edition of The Dignity of Difference.Rabbi Gottlieb explains how significant it was that Alasdair...2020-11-1855 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 19-Sleeping in Graveyards :Mental Competency in civil and religous lawBoth discussants grapple with the intersection (or perhaps, clash) of psychiatry and Halacha in the mental competence domain. Rabbi Kivelevitz detailed how Mental Health experts are regularly consulted by Bet Din in halachic child custody case. Kivelevitz further relates that competence is a quandary in Talmudic discourse primarily in the arena of marriage/divorce. He enumerates the limited Talmudic behavioral criteria of incompetence: Sleeping in the cemetery, walking alone at night, destroying one’s clothing, and losing important items.Dr. Juni and Kivelevitz exchange barbs about the degree of overlap between the medical Psychosis diagnosis and the lay notion of “craz...2020-11-1859 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni Episode 18-Navigating the Unending Storm-Coping with Chronic Crisis: Pandemics, Life in Israel, & Family IllnessProfessor Juni introduces his work in Chronic Crisis Theory in prolonged emergency states, delineating salient external coping methods and internal defenses. He stresses the positive features of suppression as a stop-gap measure. Dr. Juni illustrates his theory with clinical examples from a variety of protracted family and social challenges. Rabbi Kivelevitz extends this perspective to champion the value of periodic respite for families of chronic medical patients to recalibrate a sense of sanity. In a parallel analysis, Juni analyzes the idiosyncratic Israeli personality and associated mores and interpersonal styles, portraying the typical Sabra as living in a pressure cooker of...2020-11-1136 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa-Season 2 Episode 10- Message to the Agudah: Conflating "Yeshivish" in the U.S with Charedi in Eretz Yisroel is a mistakeIn a signing ceremony in Yerushalayim two weeks ago of the World Zionist Organization,a coalition that included the Orthodox Union, Yeshiva University, Touro College, Bnei Akiva, AMIT, the RCA, the National Council of Young Israel and Torah Mitzion resulted in Yaakov Hagoel, being named the organization's first religious Jew to serve as the Chairman of the Executive. The agreement signed distributed control over Zionist institutions and departments to a wide range of Jewish organizations and factions, from Orthodox to Reform and from Right to Left.This prompted Agudath Israel to issue a "Statement on Charedi Principles" explaining why they...2020-11-0939 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni-Episode 17-Eliminating Pater-Your child is destined to resent you-It's the only way to grow upRabbi Kivelevitz begins this episode by citing the disturbing trend that has increased during thecoronavirus outbreak ofmillions of American young adults, moving in with family members. The share of 18- to 29-year-olds living with their parents has become a majority since U.S. coronavirus cases began spreading early this year, surpassing the previous peak during the Great Depression era.Beginning with the postulate that children are destined to leave their parents as a means of establishing their own identity, Dr. Juni argues from a psychology perspective that adultsshould notbe living with parents.Rabbi Kivelevitz weighs in from the vantage of...2020-11-0444 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni- 16 - Jewish Liberalism, Intersectionality, and Antisemitism: An Unholy AllianceInspired by a fascinating monograph authored by J.J.Gross entitled Masculine Antisemtism/Feminine Antisemitism Feminine Jewishness/Masculine Jewishness, Doctor Juni adds his unique perspective to the phenomenon that has hounded our people relentlessly in various forms, Anti-Semitism. The complete episode results in an overall analysis by Juni and Kivelevitz of liberalism among modern Jews, and how it may be contributing to the de-identification of Jews with Judaism.Kivelevitz brings up the championing of total non-denominationalism by Jews who were part of major revolutionary movements (Communism, in particular) .Tikkun Olam ,though highly touted by many liberal thinkers as the salient...2020-10-2734 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastEmeritus Rex-Reflections and Insights from Rabbi Reuben Poupko-A forty year veteran of the Rabbinate-Episode 2- Shots fired from across the border : Our religious and political divisions can obscure what is at stake in the American electionA brand new interview program that seeks to pick the brain of one of the most influential Rabbinic figures of North America.RabbiReuben Joshua Poupko has been the Rabbi ofBeth Israel Beth Aaron Congregation in Montrealfor over 30 years.Rabbi Poupko from his Canadian perch sketches cogently the debate in the Jewish community over supporting President Trump.He explains why Orthodox Jews have a more cynical attitude to politics, and the reasons why Trump polls so strongly among them.Poupko draws parallels and distinction between the support Canadian Jewry began to give to the Conservative Party, and how the George W...2020-10-2245 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 15 -Mental Health Fallout of Coping (and Mis-Coping) with Corona AnxietyRecent events of social and community upheaval in the USA and Israel are examined through the general lens of Ego Psychology. Misguided coping strategies with the anxiety spawned by the Corona Pandemic are seen as contributing to the unraveling of the social fabric globally, resulting in general discord, eruptions of violence, and vocal intergroup hatred. Rabbi Kivelevitz suggests that the failure of these strategies has been the primary fuel for the destruction associated with BLM protests, election-related conspiracies, the erosion of civility in politics, and group-engendered dangerous health practices. Prof. Juni spells out adaptive and disruptive psychological Defense Mechanism options...2020-10-2043 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastRischa D'Araisa-Season 2 Episode 7-Should the Satmar Rov be classified in the category of "Flawed Gedolim"??On the basis of material culled together in this eight year old blog-Rabbi Bechhofer demands Rabbi Kivelevitz admit to his conclusion that Rav Yoel zt"l suffered from serious flaws which demote him in comparison to other giants of the 20th century. Kivelevitz forces himself to read the ugly invective that the young Rav Teitelbaum penned against the first Chief Rabbi of Modern Israel,Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook.Rabbi Bechhofer points out that despite the Rov being saved by Kastner a staunch Zionist,and his community reaping the benefits of Israeli government policy,Rav Teitelbaum never recanted or softened...2020-10-1846 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 14 - Extending the Stressful Marriage or DivorceWith divorce rates spiking world-wide during the Pandemic, including the Orthodox Jewish world, Rabbi Kivelevitz asks the professor his views on sustaining a married relationship.The Rabbi outlines the roots of marriage as stemming from a confluence of a gender-rooted and role-differentiated efficient arrangement intertwined with a Divinely designed living ideal.Doctor Juni analyzes the contrasting implications of religiously mandated marriage, divorce taboos, and clashes of personal interest / styles / objectives among marital partners. Recounting anecdotal and clinical episodes, Dr. Juni illustrates different levels of emotional connectedness and personal relatedness among ethnic subgroups – particularly among Hareidi and fundamental religious movements.He ex...2020-10-1355 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 13 - Getting to Know the Professor-The Unique Vision of a Holocaust Youngest ChildDeparting a bit from the heavy somber material discussed over the last few episodes,Rabbi Kivelevitz asks Doctor Juni about issues he himself has dealt with and overcome.Juni describes what it means to be the younger sibling of a gifted older brother and the psychological ramifications of that dynamic.In an almost comedic vein. the Professor recounts his discovering of his color blindness, and details the negative effects that accompany this condition.He theorizes how the absence of color nuance recognition can cause one to adopt perspectives in analysis and research that are strict and demanding,and downplay appreciation...2020-10-0739 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 12 -The Abusers Among UsProfessor Juni chooses a topic that is close to his heart and that he has written extensively about, spousal abuse and the pathologies involved in the molestation of children. The doctor also rings in on how modern understandings should impact the concept of Kedushei Taus.Rabbi Kivelevitz attempts to clarify the controversies surrounding the use of the heter,despite it being used in a number of prominent cases.The conversation is quite open about the presence of pedophiles in the ranks of Jewish teachers ,and Doctor Juni's withering criticism of the systems that allowed those individuals to remain in positions...2020-09-291h 04
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 11-Yom Kippur-Just trying to extract a true confessionRabbi Kivelevitz queries Professor Juni concerning the psychological efficacy of using the standard liturgical text of the Yom Kippur confession or Vidui.The pair discuss if focusing so strongly on particular incorrect actions obscures the root causes behind sin.Kivelevitz wonders if an updated confessional is in order.Doctor Juni relates how the theory of cognitive dissonance plays out for many as they struggle to own up to negative behaviors that have been fostered within themselves.Kivelevitz asks Juni if he believes the method of self examination, Heshbon ha-nefesh,urged by Rav Yisroel Salanter is an accessible option for most...2020-09-2342 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastStanding in Two Worlds with Doctor Sam Juni -Episode 10-Appearing before the Judge of Life and Death-Living with the fear of mortalityWith the imminent advent of Rosh HaShana 5781,Rabbi Kivelevitz elicits Doctor Juni's take on understanding our fragile mortality.Proceeding from 19th century romanticism's speculation on the nature of individual consciousness,the conversation unfolds as an attempt to balance modern brain science, ethical social theory,and anthropological findings that speak to the earliest and most fundamental definitions of human society.Along the way the doctor offers his own interpretation of Maimonides rationale for the Mitzvah of Tekias Shofar.Doctor Samuel Juniis one of the foremost research psychologists in the world today.He has published groundbreaking original research in seventy different peer...2020-09-1538 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastFine Tuned Halacha -Episode 91 - Rosh HaShanah Minhagei Rav Elyashiv and Rav Shlomo Zalman: Nusach of Hataras Nedarim/Eating Simanim:Separate Brachos/Saying God's name in the Yehi RatzonDedicated to theRefuah Shleimahof Tamar Elisheva Bas DevorahRabbi Kivelevitz leads the Shiur through the customs of Rav Yosef Shalom Eliyashiv Zt"l as were practiced on Erev Rosh haShanah as part of Hataras Nedarim,and how the Posek HaDor conducted himself in the eating of the Simanim.Kivelevitz highlights the positions of Rav Elyashiv in contrast to those of Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerabach Zt"l which bring into sharp relief the balance of Halacha and Minhag each of these Giants took.Rabbi Avraham Kivelevitz has spent the last eight years writing and teaching for Dirshu International'sDaf Yomi B'Halacha,In general...2020-09-0927 min
Yeshiva of Newark PodcastOn Principle-18-Challenges in Jewish Education with Rabbi Jon Kroll-Athletic Shorts- Schools filling the void left by competitive sports this coming school yearThe renowned educator and Principal ofSAR High SchoolRabbi Jonathan Kroll stakes out his case for the immense positive effect having competitive sports teams has on the whole student body rippling a positive attitude and adding to school satisfactionreaching even those that are not athletes or spectators.He explains the important ethical instruction his school imparts to fans that teach students to refrain from taunting and unseemly excessive boosterism.Rabbi Kivelevitz inquires as to what sports can be safely introduced in the era of Covid-19,sans the hoped for vaccine.Kroll provides some inventive real options that could actually tee off...2020-08-2828 min