Shows
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowCAN NEW YORK JEWS TRUST ZOHRAN MAMDANI? A CONVERSATION WITH VETERAN JEWISH JOURNALIST, RON KAMPEAS (Audio)In this episode, of THE AVRUM ROSENSWEIG SHOW, I'll tackle a moment of real consequence for the Jews of New York City—and, frankly, for American Jewish life. New Yorkers have just elected Zohran Mamdani as their next mayor: an activist-legislator whose unapologetically progressive politics, outspoken stance on Israel and Palestine, and deep ties to anti-Israel grassroots movements have sparked both celebration and concern across the five boroughs. What will his leadership actually mean for the future of the city? For public safety, for community relations, for civic cohesion? And most urgently: how will his administration affect New York’s Je...
2025-11-1851 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowCAN NEW YORK JEWS TRUST ZOHRAN MAMDANI? A CONVERSATION WITH VETERAN JEWISH JOURNALIST, RON KAMPEAS (Audio/Visual)In this episode, of THE AVRUM ROSENSWEIG SHOW, I'll tackle a moment of real consequence for the Jews of New York City—and, frankly, for American Jewish life. New Yorkers have just elected Zohran Mamdani as their next mayor: an activist-legislator whose unapologetically progressive politics, outspoken stance on Israel and Palestine, and deep ties to anti-Israel grassroots movements have sparked both celebration and concern across the five boroughs. What will his leadership actually mean for the future of the city? For public safety, for community relations, for civic cohesion? And most urgently: how will his administration affect New York’s Je...
2025-11-1851 min
The Avrum Rosensweig Show'THE PARSHA IN REAL TIME' WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA: CHAYAI SARAH (Audio)Welcome to my new show with my dear friend, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara, called 'THE PARSHA IN REAL TIME'. In it will be learn aspects of the Torah portion with you through the lens of current events. This week’s Torah portion, Chayei Sarah — “The Life of Sarah” — begins with a paradox. It carries the name of life, yet opens with loss. We meet Abraham mourning Sarah, searching for a burial place that grants her dignity, and then turning, slowly and courageously, toward the future. He arranges a partner for Isaac, ensuring continuity, resilience, and faith across generations. Chayei Sarah is a story...
2025-11-131h 15
The Avrum Rosensweig Show'THE PARSHA IN REAL TIME' WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA: CHAYAI SARAH (Audio/Visual)Welcome to my new show with my dear friend, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara, called 'THE PARSHA IN REAL TIME'. In it will be learn aspects of the Torah portion with you through the lens of current events. This week’s Torah portion, Chayei Sarah — “The Life of Sarah” — begins with a paradox. It carries the name of life, yet opens with loss. We meet Abraham mourning Sarah, searching for a burial place that grants her dignity, and then turning, slowly and courageously, toward the future. He arranges a partner for Isaac, ensuring continuity, resilience, and faith across generations. Chayei Sarah is a story...
2025-11-131h 15
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTHE MAGNIFICENT ELKI JACOBS: ISRAELI ACTRESS AND EVENT DESIGNER (Audio)With more than three decades of international design experience, Elki Jacobs stands at the rare intersection of artistry, emotion, and luxury. Renowned for crafting unforgettable events that blend refined sophistication with genuine human feeling, she transforms celebration into story. A classically trained actor with a deep love for theater and narrative craft, Elki brings a performer’s intuition to every project — understanding not only how a space looks, but how it feels, moves, and breathes. To her, event design is the stagecraft of real life, and acting is the emotional performance that brings that stage to life. Through thoughtful visu...
2025-11-111h 06The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTHE MAGNIFICENT ELKI JACOBS: ISRAELI ACTRESS AND EVENT DESIGNER (Audio & Visual)With more than three decades of international design experience, Elki Jacobs stands at the rare intersection of artistry, emotion, and luxury. Renowned for crafting unforgettable events that blend refined sophistication with genuine human feeling, she transforms celebration into story. A classically trained actor with a deep love for theater and narrative craft, Elki brings a performer’s intuition to every project — understanding not only how a space looks, but how it feels, moves, and breathes. To her, event design is the stagecraft of real life, and acting is the emotional performance that brings that stage to life. Through thoughtful visu...
2025-11-111h 06The Avrum Rosensweig ShowYiddish is Alive & Well With Avi Hoffman (Audio)Welcome to this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' with Avi Hoffman. Avi is a beloved actor, producer, and storyteller whose life’s work has been dedicated to celebrating Jewish culture and the Yiddish language. Best known for his hit, Too Jewish trilogy, seen by millions on PBS and on stages around the world, Avi has brought laughter, meaning, and heritage to audiences everywhere. From New York to Tel Aviv, Montreal to Warsaw, Avi has performed and produced in countless festivals and theatres, sharing the warmth and wisdom of Jewish life through song and story. His connections in the wo...
2025-10-3057 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowYiddish is Alive & Well With Avi Hoffman (Audio/Visual)Welcome to this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' with Avi Hoffman. Avi is a beloved actor, producer, and storyteller whose life’s work has been dedicated to celebrating Jewish culture and the Yiddish language. Best known for his hit, Too Jewish trilogy, seen by millions on PBS and on stages around the world, Avi has brought laughter, meaning, and heritage to audiences everywhere. From New York to Tel Aviv, Montreal to Warsaw, Avi has performed and produced in countless festivals and theatres, sharing the warmth and wisdom of Jewish life through song and story. His connections in the wo...
2025-10-3057 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTorah, Thought, and Therapy: Rav Yoni Rosensweig on the Soul of Halacha (Audio) In this episode, I’m honored to sit down with Rav Yoni Rosensweig, a bold and compassionate leader redefining the conversation at the intersection of mental health and halacha. As the rabbi of the Netzach Menashe community in Beit Shemesh, Rav Yoni brings both intellectual depth and emotional sensitivity to his work as a teacher of Halakha, Gemara, and Jewish thought. His remarkable journey has taken him from heading the Mizrahi Kollel in Melbourne, Australia, to teaching roles at Yeshivat Hamivtar and Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael in Efrat. A beloved educator at Midreshet Lindenbaum, he holds semikha from Rav Nachum El...
2025-10-281h 00
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTorah, Thought, and Therapy: Rav Yoni Rosensweig on the Soul of Halacha (Audio/Visual) In this episode, I’m honored to sit down with Rav Yoni Rosensweig, a bold and compassionate leader redefining the conversation at the intersection of mental health and halacha. As the rabbi of the Netzach Menashe community in Beit Shemesh, Rav Yoni brings both intellectual depth and emotional sensitivity to his work as a teacher of Halakha, Gemara, and Jewish thought. His remarkable journey has taken him from heading the Mizrahi Kollel in Melbourne, Australia, to teaching roles at Yeshivat Hamivtar and Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael in Efrat. A beloved educator at Midreshet Lindenbaum, he holds semikha from Rav Nachum El...
2025-10-281h 00
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowAVRUM ROSENSWEIG: A WISH FOR A MEANINGFUL JEWISH HOLIDAY SEASON (Audio)Gmar Chatimah Tova! Wishing you an easy fast and a holiday season filled with meaning and purpose. In this video, I share some reflections on how we can strengthen ourselves, our communities, and the world we share. I speak about raising our level of chesed (kindness), embracing a mitzvah that can become part of our lives, and finding new ways of giving that we may not have considered before. The goal is simple yet profound: to ensure that goodness outweighs evil, that light overcomes the darkness around us. If I hurt you in the past year (5785 / 2024–25), I sincerely apologize and as...
2025-10-0107 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowAVRUM ROSENSWEIG: A WISH FOR A MEANINGFUL JEWISH HOLIDAY SEASON (Audio/Visual)Gmar Chatimah Tova! Wishing you an easy fast and a holiday season filled with meaning and purpose. In this video, I share some reflections on how we can strengthen ourselves, our communities, and the world we share. I speak about raising our level of chesed (kindness), embracing a mitzvah that can become part of our lives, and finding new ways of giving that we may not have considered before. The goal is simple yet profound: to ensure that goodness outweighs evil, that light overcomes the darkness around us. If I hurt you in the past year (5785 / 2024–25), I sincerely apologize and as...
2025-10-0107 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowRemembering Yonadav: A Mother’s Emotional Journey After Her Son’s Sacrifice in Gaza (Audio)In this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', Avrum speaks with Leora Levenstein, the mother of fallen IDF soldier Yonadav Levenstein, who was killed in northern Gaza in November 2023. Leora opens her heart about the devastating loss of her youngest child, lovingly nicknamed “the Viking” for his towering presence and red beard. She shares moving stories of a young man who devoured books and carried a passion for biblical studies, Jewish and world history, archaeology, geography, politics, economics, and philosophy. We also hear about Yonadav’s great love: his wife of just two months, Hadar, whom he met while excava...
2025-09-3059 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowRemembering Yonadav: A Mother’s Emotional Journey After Her Son’s Sacrifice in Gaza (Audio/Visual)In this episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', Avrum speaks with Leora Levenstein, the mother of fallen IDF soldier Yonadav Levenstein, who was killed in northern Gaza in November 2023. Leora opens her heart about the devastating loss of her youngest child, lovingly nicknamed “the Viking” for his towering presence and red beard. She shares moving stories of a young man who devoured books and carried a passion for biblical studies, Jewish and world history, archaeology, geography, politics, economics, and philosophy. We also hear about Yonadav’s great love: his wife of just two months, Hadar, whom he met while excava...
2025-09-3059 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowAN ISRAELI HUMANITARIAN HELPING THE PEOPLE OF GAZA: SHACHAR ZAHAVI (Audio)’m honoured to be joined by a remarkable humanitarian leader and visionary, Shachar Zahavi. Shachar lives on a Moshav near Tel Aviv with his wife, Rachel, and their two children, but his life’s work has taken him far beyond Israel’s borders. His humanitarian journey began in 1994, when, instead of setting off on the traditional post-army travels, he was moved by the horrors of the Rwandan genocide and organized relief efforts. That choice set him on a lifelong path of service. In 2001, he co-founded IsraAID, bringing together Israeli aid organizations under one umbrella. As executive director for 16 years, Shacha...
2025-09-241h 03The Avrum Rosensweig ShowAN ISRAELI HUMANITARIAN HELPING THE PEOPLE OF GAZA: SHACHAR ZAHAVI (Audio/Visual)I’m honoured to be joined by a remarkable humanitarian leader and visionary, Shachar Zahavi. Shachar lives on a Moshav near Tel Aviv with his wife, Rachel, and their two children, but his life’s work has taken him far beyond Israel’s borders. His humanitarian journey began in 1994, when, instead of setting off on the traditional post-army travels, he was moved by the horrors of the Rwandan genocide and organized relief efforts. That choice set him on a lifelong path of service. In 2001, he co-founded IsraAID, bringing together Israeli aid organizations under one umbrella. As executive director for 16 years...
2025-09-241h 03
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA AND PROSE: TORAH PORTION NETZAVIM WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA (Audio)*Welcome back to Parsha and Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara. This week, we’re diving into Parshat Nitzavim, a portion that speaks directly to the essence of community, covenant, and choice. Nitzavim is Deuteronomy 29:9–30:20, followed by the Haftarah from Isaiah 61:10–63:9. Much of Parsha & Prose this week is about Rabbi Gemara's father Z'l, who passed away a couple of weeks ago at 96 years old. The Rabbi speaks beautifully about his father and shares with us some very intimate stories about his humility, love of learning Torah, and incredible relationship with his wife and family. This is well worth listening to and le...
2025-09-191h 28
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA AND PROSE: TORAH PORTION NETZAVIM WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA (Audio/Visual)*Welcome back to Parsha and Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara. This week, we’re diving into Parshat Nitzavim, a portion that speaks directly to the essence of community, covenant, and choice. Nitzavim is Deuteronomy 29:9–30:20, followed by the Haftarah from Isaiah 61:10–63:9. Much of Parsha & Prose this week is about Rabbi Gemara's father Z'l, who passed away a couple of weeks ago at 96 years old. The Rabbi speaks beautifully about his father and shares with us some very intimate stories about his humility, love of learning Torah, and incredible relationship with his wife and family. This is well worth listening to and le...
2025-09-191h 28The Avrum Rosensweig ShowLOVE/SEX ADDICTION TO INTROSPECTION TO BECOMING A WORLD-CLASS WRITER: SUE WILLIAM SILVERMAN (Audio)LOVE/SEX ADDICTION TO INTROSPECTION TO BECOMING A WORLD-CLASS WRITER: SUE WILLIAM SILVERMAN Let's all welcome Sue William Silverman. Sue is an award-winning memoirist, essayist, poet, and teacher whose work has continually challenged complacency and redefined what it means to write and live with courage. Her newest book, "Selected Misdemeanours: Essays at the Mercy of the Reader", is a collection of unapologetic word grenades, miniature stories that take fleeting, everyday moments and show how they ripple outward into emotional earthquakes. Whether recalling a fraught family vacation, an evening with Chippendale dancers, or a Pac-Man-and-bourbon-fueled meditation on love gone wrong...
2025-09-171h 17The Avrum Rosensweig ShowLOVE/SEX ADDICTION TO INTROSPECTION TO BECOMING A WORLD-CLASS WRITER: SUE WILLIAM SILVERMAN (Audio/Visual)LOVE/SEX ADDICTION TO INTROSPECTION TO BECOMING A WORLD-CLASS WRITER: SUE WILLIAM SILVERMAN Let's all welcome Sue William Silverman. Sue is an award-winning memoirist, essayist, poet, and teacher whose work has continually challenged complacency and redefined what it means to write and live with courage. Her newest book, "Selected Misdemeanours: Essays at the Mercy of the Reader", is a collection of unapologetic word grenades, miniature stories that take fleeting, everyday moments and show how they ripple outward into emotional earthquakes. Whether recalling a fraught family vacation, an evening with Chippendale dancers, or a Pac-Man-and-bourbon-fueled meditation on love gone wrong...
2025-09-171h 17
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTHE POWER OF ORDINARY PEOPLE TO CREATE EXTRAORDINARY CHANGE: THE SAM DALEY-HARRIS STORY (Audio)I’m so excited to welcome my guest today, Sam Daley-Harris. For more than forty years, Sam has been showing everyday people that they have the power to make extraordinary change. Through his leadership, training, and innovative strategies, he’s helped countless individuals and organizations turn their passion into meaningful, results-driven advocacy. Sam founded RESULTS and the RESULTS Educational Fund, an international citizens’ lobby that has played a huge role in building the political will to end hunger and poverty. Thanks to the efforts of RESULTS advocates, billions of dollars have been secured for life-saving programs around the world. He als...
2025-09-1759 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowTHE POWER OF ORDINARY PEOPLE TO CREATE EXTRAORDINARY CHANGE: THE SAM DALEY-HARRIS STORY (Audio/Visual)I’m so excited to welcome my guest today, Sam Daley-Harris. For more than forty years, Sam has been showing everyday people that they have the power to make extraordinary change. Through his leadership, training, and innovative strategies, he’s helped countless individuals and organizations turn their passion into meaningful, results-driven advocacy. Sam founded RESULTS and the RESULTS Educational Fund, an international citizens’ lobby that has played a huge role in building the political will to end hunger and poverty. Thanks to the efforts of RESULTS advocates, billions of dollars have been secured for life-saving programs around the world. He als...
2025-09-1759 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowA LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO KINDNESS: RUTH MESSINGER'S ROAD FROM NY POLITICS TO INTERNATIONAL ADVOCACY (Audio)Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into inspiring stories of leadership and global change! I'm thrilled to be joined by Ruth Messinger, a lifelong New Yorker whose decades-long career has shaped social justice and public service. From serving as Manhattan Borough President (1990–1997), championing affordable housing and education, to running as the 1997 Democratic nominee for NYC Mayor, Ruth has been a trailblazer. As president of the American Jewish World Service (1998–2016), she transformed it into a global force for human rights, fighting poverty and injustice in over 30 countries. Ruth also talks about her endorsement of Democratic nominee for the mayor of N...
2025-09-0956 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowA LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO KINDNESS: RUTH MESSINGER'S ROAD FROM NY POLITICS TO INTERNATIONAL ADVOCACY (Audio/Visual)Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into inspiring stories of leadership and global change! I'm thrilled to be joined by Ruth Messinger, a lifelong New Yorker whose decades-long career has shaped social justice and public service. From serving as Manhattan Borough President (1990–1997), championing affordable housing and education, to running as the 1997 Democratic nominee for NYC Mayor, Ruth has been a trailblazer. As president of the American Jewish World Service (1998–2016), she transformed it into a global force for human rights, fighting poverty and injustice in over 30 countries. Ruth also talks about her endorsement of Democratic nominee for the mayor of N...
2025-09-0956 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFRUM AND FREE: KEN GANGBAR'S SPIRITUAL AND CREATIVE AWAKENING (Audio)Behold the journey of Ken Gangbar, a sculptor whose hands shape stone and spirit alike. In this intimate interview, Ken unveils his heart, tracing the path he forged after October 7th, a pilgrimage into the depths of Judaism, a quest to fortify his soul as a Jew. Once a fierce activist against Apartheid in South Africa, he now strides through Toronto’s streets, a kippah crowning his head, tearing down venomous anti-Semitic flyers. In their place, he pins portraits of hostages, a quiet rebellion of hope. When the city’s decree sought to silence his defiance, Ken wove yellow ribbons into...
2025-09-031h 10
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFRUM AND FREE: KEN GANGBAR'S SPIRITUAL AND CREATIVE AWAKENING (Audio/Visual)Behold the journey of Ken Gangbar, a sculptor whose hands shape stone and spirit alike. In this intimate interview, Ken unveils his heart, tracing the path he forged after October 7th, a pilgrimage into the depths of Judaism, a quest to fortify his soul as a Jew. Once a fierce activist against Apartheid in South Africa, he now strides through Toronto’s streets, a kippah crowning his head, tearing down venomous anti-Semitic flyers. In their place, he pins portraits of hostages, a quiet rebellion of hope. When the city’s decree sought to silence his defiance, Ken wove yellow ribbons into...
2025-09-031h 10The Avrum Rosensweig ShowNORTHERN LIGHTS, JEWISH LIFE: RICK KARP'S YUKON JOURNEY (Audio)Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the remarkable story of the Jewish Community of the Yukon Territory and its inspiring leader, Rick Karp. Nestled in one of the most breathtaking and magical places on Earth—the Yukon, a land of boreal forests, rugged mountains, glaciers, and rivers, where the northern lights dance across the sky and grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves roam freely in a pristine wilderness—it’s said there are more bears than people. Here, at the northern edge of the world, a small but vibrant Jewish community of just 46 people thrives under the guid...
2025-08-291h 18The Avrum Rosensweig ShowNORTHERN LIGHTS, JEWISH LIFE: RICK KARP'S YUKON JOURNEY (Audio/Visual)Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the remarkable story of the Jewish Community of the Yukon Territory and its inspiring leader, Rick Karp. Nestled in one of the most breathtaking and magical places on Earth—the Yukon, a land of boreal forests, rugged mountains, glaciers, and rivers, where the northern lights dance across the sky and grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves roam freely in a pristine wilderness—it’s said there are more bears than people. Here, at the northern edge of the world, a small but vibrant Jewish community of just 46 people thrives under the guid...
2025-08-291h 18The Avrum Rosensweig ShowYOUR ROOTS CAST A SHADOW: CAROLINE TOPPERMAN'S SEARCH FOR BELONGING (Audio)Welcome to today’s episode, where I am joined by the incredible Caroline Topperman, author of 'Your Roots Cast a Shadow: One Family’s Search Across History for Belonging'. A few years ago, Caroline and her husband embarked on an adventure to Poland, where she uncovered a profound connection to her family’s past. What began as a personal journey quickly turned into a deep dive into history, as she pieced together her family’s story through old letters and an unpublished manuscript by her grandfather, which she translated from Polish. In her book, Caroline masterfully weaves together her mixed Je...
2025-08-221h 17The Avrum Rosensweig ShowYOUR ROOTS CAST A SHADOW: CAROLINE TOPPERMAN SEARCH FOR BELONGING (Audio/Visual)Welcome to today’s episode, where I am joined by the incredible Caroline Topperman, author of 'Your Roots Cast a Shadow: One Family’s Search Across History for Belonging'. A few years ago, Caroline and her husband embarked on an adventure to Poland, where she uncovered a profound connection to her family’s past. What began as a personal journey quickly turned into a deep dive into history, as she pieced together her family’s story through old letters and an unpublished manuscript by her grandfather, which she translated from Polish. In her book, Caroline masterfully weaves together her mixed Jewish a...
2025-08-221h 17
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom Winnipeg to Hollywood: Arnie Zipursky’s Unbelievable Journey to TV Stardom! (MP3)Arnie Zipursky was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, into a fiercely Zionistic family. Arnie’s TV spark was ignited by a Super 8 camera bar mitzvah gift, gifted by his dad, a butcher, at his bar mitzvah. From those humble beginnings, he carved a path to becoming a powerhouse producer, crafting feature films, TV series, documentaries, and children’s programming that captivate hearts worldwide. Now, as the visionary behind the award-winning The Way Home, starring A-list Hollywood icon Andie MacDowell, Arnie continues to weave stories that resonate deeply. A proud father of three daughters—two of whom join him in his creati...
2025-08-201h 21
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom Winnipeg to Hollywood: Arnie Zipursky’s Unbelievable Journey to TV Stardom! (Audio/Visual)Arnie Zipursky was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, into a fiercely Zionistic family. Arnie’s TV spark was ignited by a Super 8 camera bar mitzvah gift, gifted by his dad, a butcher, at his bar mitzvah. From those humble beginnings, he carved a path to becoming a powerhouse producer, crafting feature films, TV series, documentaries, and children’s programming that captivate hearts worldwide. Now, as the visionary behind the award-winning The Way Home, starring A-list Hollywood icon Andie MacDowell, Arnie continues to weave stories that resonate deeply. A proud father of three daughters—two of whom join him in his creati...
2025-08-201h 21
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowAn Epic ‘October 7th’ Interview with Ela Levgoren, Survivor of the Nova Musical Festival (Audio)edicated to the memory of Gili Adar, and five other friends (to be discussed in the interview) of Ela, all of whom were murdered at the Nova Music Festival, on October 7th, 2023. Welcome to a profoundly moving episode of our podcast, featuring an in-depth, nearly two-hour conversation with ELA LEVGOREN, a courageous survivor of the tragic terrorist attack at the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023. In this powerful and inspiring interview, Ela, a 25-year-old who embodies resilience and the strength of the Jewish soul and the human spirit, shares her remarkable story with raw honesty and heart. Ela opens...
2025-08-191h 49
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowAn Epic ‘October 7th’ Interview with Ela Levgoren, Survivor of the Nova Musical Festival (Audio/Visual)Dedicated to the memory of Gili Adar, and five other friends (to be discussed in the interview) of Ela, all of whom were murdered at the Nova Music Festival, on October 7th, 2023. Welcome to a profoundly moving episode of our podcast, featuring an in-depth, nearly two-hour conversation with ELA LEVGOREN, a courageous survivor of the tragic terrorist attack at the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023. In this powerful and inspiring interview, Ela, a 25-year-old who embodies resilience and the strength of the Jewish soul and the human spirit, shares her remarkable story with raw honesty and heart. Ela opens...
2025-08-191h 49
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowHENRY WOLFOND: TIFF REINSTATES 'OCTOBER 7TH' FILM AFTER ENORMOUS PRESSURE FROM JEWISH COMMUNITY (Audio)In this episode, Avrum speaks with Henry Wolfond, a prominent businessman, Jewish community leader, and dedicated advocate for Toronto’s cultural scene. Henry offers an insider’s perspective on the Toronto International Film Festival’s (TIFF) decision to reinstate 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue', a powerful documentary by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Barry Avrich. The film chronicles the heroic October 7th rescue mission led by retired Israeli General Noam Tibon to save family members. Initially, TIFF removed the documentary from its lineup, citing legal and safety concerns, sparking intense debate and significant public outcry, particularly from the Jewish commun...
2025-08-1621 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowHENRY WOLFOND: TIFF REINSTATES 'OCTOBER 7TH' FILM AFTER ENORMOUS PRESSURE FROM JEWISH COMMUNITY (Audio/Visual)In this episode, Avrum speaks with Henry Wolfond, a prominent businessman, Jewish community leader, and dedicated advocate for Toronto’s cultural scene. Henry offers an insider’s perspective on the Toronto International Film Festival’s (TIFF) decision to reinstate 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue', a powerful documentary by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Barry Avrich. The film chronicles the heroic October 7th rescue mission led by retired Israeli General Noam Tibon to save family members. Initially, TIFF removed the documentary from its lineup, citing legal and safety concerns, sparking intense debate and significant public outcry, particularly from the Jewish commun...
2025-08-1621 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom NBA to Torah: Ethan Davidson's Eclectic Life & Torah Study (Audio)From Detroit to the Divine: Ethan Davidson’s Journey Through Song and Scripture In this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, Avrum reconnects with Ethan Daniel Davidson, a Detroit-born musician and spiritual seeker whose journey blends the soulful grit of Motor City’s music scene with an ever-deepening exploration of faith and Torah. Known for his roots-inspired sound and lyrical storytelling, Ethan shares how Biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and Joseph inspire his art and illuminate his path. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: - How Ethan’s Detroit roots shaped his music and worldview - Why Biblical...
2025-08-091h 20
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom NBA to Torah: Ethan Davidson's Eclectic Life & Torah Study (Audio/Visual)From Detroit to the Divine: Ethan Davidson’s Journey Through Song and Scripture In this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, Avrum reconnects with Ethan Daniel Davidson, a Detroit-born musician and spiritual seeker whose journey blends the soulful grit of Motor City’s music scene with an ever-deepening exploration of faith and Torah. Known for his roots-inspired sound and lyrical storytelling, Ethan shares how Biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and Joseph inspire his art and illuminate his path. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: - How Ethan’s Detroit roots shaped his music and worldview - Why Biblical...
2025-08-091h 20The Avrum Rosensweig ShowCarla Stockton: Author, 'Too Much of Nothing' (Audio)Joined by the remarkable Carla Stockton, a first-generation American boomer whose life story unfolds like a series of vivid vignettes. From her mother’s daring escape from Europe before World War II to her own liberation from a stifling marriage, Carla’s journey is a powerful meditation on survival, family, and self-discovery. Her memoir, Too Much of Nothing: Notes on Feminism, Identity, and Womanhood, is a must-read, brimming with humour, heart, and hard-won wisdom. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt lost, offering hope and a reminder that it’s never too late to start over...
2025-08-051h 17The Avrum Rosensweig ShowCarla Stockton: Author, 'Too Much of Nothing' (Audio/Visual)Joined by the remarkable Carla Stockton, a first-generation American boomer whose life story unfolds like a series of vivid vignettes. From her mother’s daring escape from Europe before World War II to her own liberation from a stifling marriage, Carla’s journey is a powerful meditation on survival, family, and self-discovery. Her memoir, Too Much of Nothing: Notes on Feminism, Identity, and Womanhood, is a must-read, brimming with humour, heart, and hard-won wisdom. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt lost, offering hope and a reminder that it’s never too late to start over...
2025-08-051h 17
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowKelly O'Hearn: Author, Arcanum Series & Taro Card Reader (Audio)Have past lives shaped who we are today? Do soul contracts guide our journeys? Can Tarot cards serve as a narrative tool, unveiling profound truths and offering a path to healing? For Kelly O’Hearn, the answer is a definitive yes. As the visionary behind the acclaimed Arcanum series, O’Hearn crafts time-bending novels channelled through the ancient art of Tarot, weaving tales of love, power, freedom, spirituality, and self-discovery. Inspired by her own past-life readings and transformative personal journey, O’Hearn’s work resonates deeply, blending metaphysical insight with gripping storytelling. Her Arcanum series, often described as “Outlander meets Game of Th...
2025-08-011h 07
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowKELLY O'HEARN: TARO CARD READER & AUTHOR OF THE ARCANUM SERIES (Audio/Visual)Have past lives shaped who we are today? Do soul contracts guide our journeys? Can Tarot cards serve as a narrative tool, unveiling profound truths and offering a path to healing? For Kelly O’Hearn, the answer is a definitive yes. As the visionary behind the acclaimed Arcanum series, O’Hearn crafts time-bending novels channelled through the ancient art of Tarot, weaving tales of love, power, freedom, spirituality, and self-discovery. Inspired by her own past-life readings and transformative personal journey, O’Hearn’s work resonates deeply, blending metaphysical insight with gripping storytelling. Her Arcanum series, often described as “Outlander meets Game of Th...
2025-08-011h 07
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowWho Killed Charles Dickens? A literary mystery with author Howard Kurlandski (Audio)Who Killed Charles Dickens? A literary mystery with author Howard Kurlandski This episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' dives into a thrilling blend of history, mystery, and literary intrigue! Howard Kurlandski is my guest. He is the brilliant mind behind the new historical fiction novel, 'Who Killed Charles Dickens?' Published by Pegasus Publishers, this captivating tale transports us to the gritty streets and grand palaces of 1870s London, where the legendary Charles Dickens races to finish his final novel amidst a scandalous love affair and a deadly plot threatening his life. Howard, a Toronto-based author with a rich...
2025-07-291h 04
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowWho Killed Charles Dickens? A literary mystery with author Howard Kurlandski (Audio/Visual)Who Killed Charles Dickens? A literary mystery with author Howard Kurlandski This episode of 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show' dives into a thrilling blend of history, mystery, and literary intrigue! Howard Kurlandski is my guest. He is the brilliant mind behind the new historical fiction novel, 'Who Killed Charles Dickens?' Published by Pegasus Publishers, this captivating tale transports us to the gritty streets and grand palaces of 1870s London, where the legendary Charles Dickens races to finish his final novel amidst a scandalous love affair and a deadly plot threatening his life. Howard, a Toronto-based author with a rich...
2025-07-291h 04The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom Aliyah to Acclaim: Howard Rypp’s Theatrical Odyssey in Israel and Internationally (Audio)Howard Rypp, originally from Winnipeg, made aliyah to Israel at 33, inspired by transformative experiences in his early twenties at yeshiva, a kibbutz, and beyond. Before relocating, he founded Nephesh Theatre in Toronto. In Israel, Howard immersed himself in theatre, producing, directing, and acting in plays across the country and globally. His acclaimed one-man show, Gimple the Fool, captivated audiences in Poland, Romania, the USA, Canada, and South America. Today, Howard continues to create impactful theatre, including works responding to the events of October 7th. He is also an educator, lecturing on Jewish theatre and teaching acting at Tel Aviv...
2025-07-251h 10The Avrum Rosensweig ShowFrom Aliyah to Acclaim: Howard Rypp’s Theatrical Odyssey in Israel and Internationally (Audio/Visual)Howard Rypp, originally from Winnipeg, made aliyah to Israel at 33, inspired by transformative experiences in his early twenties at yeshiva, a kibbutz, and beyond. Before relocating, he founded Nephesh Theatre in Toronto. In Israel, Howard immersed himself in theatre, producing, directing, and acting in plays across the country and globally. His acclaimed one-man show, Gimple the Fool, captivated audiences in Poland, Romania, the USA, Canada, and South America. Today, Howard continues to create impactful theatre, including works responding to the events of October 7th. He is also an educator, lecturing on Jewish theatre and teaching acting at Tel Aviv...
2025-07-251h 09The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA: MATOT & MASEI (Audio) In this vibrant episode of Parsha and Prose, Rabbi Gemara joins me from a ma'amud (bomb shelter) in Israel to explore the twin parshiot of Matot and Masei. Before delving into key themes—oaths, the 2½ tribes settling east of the Jordan, the 42 encampments of the Children of Israel, and the Levites' landless status—we discuss Rabbi Gemara's recent experiences in Israel. With infectious enthusiasm, he shares the dynamic energy he encountered in late-night restaurants and intimate shteibelech (small synagogues). Rabbi Gemara also reflects on the Israeli public's resilience amid the ongoing war in Gaza and tensions with Iran, highlighting their...
2025-07-251h 09The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE WITH RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA: MATOT & MASEI (Audio/Visual) In this vibrant episode of Parsha and Prose, Rabbi Gemara joins me from a ma'amud (bomb shelter) in Israel to explore the twin parshiot of Matot and Masei. Before delving into key themes—oaths, the 2½ tribes settling east of the Jordan, the 42 encampments of the Children of Israel, and the Levites' landless status—we discuss Rabbi Gemara's recent experiences in Israel. With infectious enthusiasm, he shares the dynamic energy he encountered in late-night restaurants and intimate shteibelech (small synagogues). Rabbi Gemara also reflects on the Israeli public's resilience amid the ongoing war in Gaza and tensions with Iran, highlighting their...
2025-07-251h 09The Avrum Rosensweig ShowSHIFRA CORRIGAN: HEART OF ISRAEL, STORY OF CONVERSION & CONNECTION (Audio)In this episode of the show, I schmooze with Shifra Ruth Corrigan (Christa), who is a convert to Judaism. Shifra is an ebullient, articulate person who expresses with great verve her passion for becoming a Jew and the beauty of the Jewish people and Israel. We discuss, her decision to convert which she describes as simply, “coming home.” She talks about her family and friend’s response to she becoming a Jew, and how she lost many friends after October 7th. Shifra expresses her great love of the mitzvoth (commandments), her favorite being Shabbat. She also talks to me about...
2025-07-251h 15The Avrum Rosensweig ShowSHIFRA CORRIGAN: HEART OF ISRAEL, STORY OF CONVERSION & CONNECTION (Audio/Visual)In this episode of the show, I schmooze with Shifra Ruth Corrigan (Christa), who is a convert to Judaism. Shifra is an ebullient, articulate person who expresses with great verve her passion for becoming a Jew and the beauty of the Jewish people and Israel. We discuss, her decision to convert which she describes as simply, “coming home.” She talks about her family and friend’s response to she becoming a Jew, and how she lost many friends after October 7th. Shifra expresses her great love of the mitzvoth (commandments), her favorite being Shabbat. She also talks to me about...
2025-07-251h 15
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowSAM KELLY: AUTHOR, 'HUMAN HISTORY ON DRUGS' (Audio)Sam Kelly, a history graduate from Stanford University, is on the autism spectrum and his interest and passion for history has become an almost physical compulsion. He loves to dig up forgotten and weird stories from the past and spends hours uncovering every last stubborn detail. “I’ve been obsessed with history since I was a little kid. In ele-mentary school, I’d beg my history teacher to let me take home the teacher’s edition of the textbook so I could read ahead and see the extra info they put in the margins to help teachers provide context. When my...
2025-07-081h 11
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowSAM KELLY: AUTHOR, 'HUMAN HISTORY ON DRUGS' (Audio/Visual)Sam Kelly, a history graduate from Stanford University, is on the autism spectrum and his interest and passion for history has become an almost physical compulsion. He loves to dig up forgotten and weird stories from the past and spends hours uncovering every last stubborn detail. “I’ve been obsessed with history since I was a little kid. In ele-mentary school, I’d beg my history teacher to let me take home the teacher’s edition of the textbook so I could read ahead and see the extra info they put in the margins to help teachers provide context. When my...
2025-07-081h 11
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: PARSHAT CHUKAT & THE DEATH OF SIBLINGS (Audio)In this episode of Parsha & Prose, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and I explore the Torah portion of Chukat, focusing on the red heifer, a ch'ok—a divine statute beyond human understanding. We delve into the meaning behind this enigmatic commandment and why God gives us laws that defy comprehension. Additionally, we discuss the emotional weight of losing a sibling, as seen in the passing of Miriam and Aaron, Moses' sister and brother. Could Moses' act of striking the rock—against God's command to speak to it—stem from his overwhelming grief? We invite your questions and reflections on this parsha or any...
2025-07-041h 13
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: PARSHAT CHUKAT & THE DEATH OF SIBLINGS (Audio/Visual)In this episode of Parsha & Prose, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and I explore the Torah portion of Chukat, focusing on the red heifer, a ch'ok—a divine statute beyond human understanding. We delve into the meaning behind this enigmatic commandment and why God gives us laws that defy comprehension. Additionally, we discuss the emotional weight of losing a sibling, as seen in the passing of Miriam and Aaron, Moses' sister and brother. Could Moses' act of striking the rock—against God's command to speak to it—stem from his overwhelming grief? We invite your questions and reflections on this parsha or any...
2025-07-041h 13
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: TORAH PORTION KORACH THROUGH THE LENS OF WORLD HISTORY (Audio)In this poignant episode of Parsha & Prose, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and Avrum reflect on the tragic loss of seven IDF soldiers in Gaza this week. Rabbi Gemara shares a deeply personal connection, drawing from his experiences in the Lebanon War, where he lost friends in a tank attack. He reflects on the weight of their final moments and the enduring impact of such losses. 💠 The conversation also explores the life of an educator after the school year ends, delving into the roles and responsibilities of teachers and administrators once students leave. 💠 KORACH: Additionally, Rabbi Gemara and Avrum analyze Korach’s rebell...
2025-06-271h 14
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: TORAH PORTION KORACH THROUGH THE LENS OF WORLD HISTORY (Audio/Visual)In this poignant episode of Parsha & Prose, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara and Avrum reflect on the tragic loss of seven IDF soldiers in Gaza this week. Rabbi Gemara shares a deeply personal connection, drawing from his experiences in the Lebanon War, where he lost friends in a tank attack. He reflects on the weight of their final moments and the enduring impact of such losses. 💠 The conversation also explores the life of an educator after the school year ends, delving into the roles and responsibilities of teachers and administrators once students leave. 💠 KORACH: Additionally, Rabbi Gemara and Avrum analyze Korach’s rebell...
2025-06-271h 14
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: BAMIDBAR & 'THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION' (Audio)Join us for an engaging episode of Parsha & Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara as we explore the Torah portion of Bamidbar through the lens of the iconic 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption, directed by Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. In Bamidbar, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Jewish people, assessing their numbers and strength as they prepare to enter Canaan. Rabbi Gemara masterfully connects this parsha to The Shawshank Redemption, drawing parallels between the structured organization of the Israelite camp and the enduring hope of the film’s prot...
2025-05-301h 11
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: BAMIDBAR & 'THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION' (Audio/Visual)Join us for an engaging episode of Parsha & Prose with Rabbi Shlomo Gemara as we explore the Torah portion of Bamidbar through the lens of the iconic 1994 film The Shawshank Redemption, directed by Frank Darabont and adapted from Stephen King’s novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. In Bamidbar, God instructs Moses to conduct a census of the Jewish people, assessing their numbers and strength as they prepare to enter Canaan. Rabbi Gemara masterfully connects this parsha to The Shawshank Redemption, drawing parallels between the structured organization of the Israelite camp and the enduring hope of the film’s prot...
2025-05-301h 11The Avrum Rosensweig ShowMICHAEL COREN'S PATH TO PRIESTHOOD: A STORY OF FAITH & CHANGE (AUDIO)Welcome to this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, where I dive into the intersections of faith, culture, and politics with thought-provoking voices. My guest is the very prolific, Michael Coren—an acclaimed journalist, author and priest whose incisive writing and bold perspectives have sparked conversations across the globe. From his books like The Rebel Christ and Hatred: Islam’s War on Christianity to his columns tackling social justice, religious freedom, and more, Michael brings a unique blend of conviction, wit, and clarity to the table. He is a husband, a father of four, and a grandfather, and in this...
2025-05-061h 14The Avrum Rosensweig ShowMICHAEL COREN'S PATH TO PRIESTHOOD: A STORY OF FAITH & CHANGE (AUDIO/VISUAL)Welcome to this episode of The Avrum Rosensweig Show, where I dive into the intersections of faith, culture, and politics with thought-provoking voices. My guest is the very prolific, Michael Coren—an acclaimed journalist, author and priest whose incisive writing and bold perspectives have sparked conversations across the globe. From his books like The Rebel Christ and Hatred: Islam’s War on Christianity to his columns tackling social justice, religious freedom, and more, Michael brings a unique blend of conviction, wit, and clarity to the table. He is a husband, a father of four, and a grandfather, and in this...
2025-05-061h 14
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: TAZRIA/METZORA THROUGH THE LENS OF 'KING LEAR' (AUDIO)Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', and our series, 'PARSHA & PROSE' with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA, where we dive into the timeless wisdom of the Torah, weaving its teachings with insights from literature, culture, and human experience. In this episode, we explore the Torah portion Tazria-Metzora (Leviticus 12:1–15:33) through the lens of William Shakespeare’s King Lear. At first glance, these texts seem worlds apart—one a sacred exploration of ritual purity and affliction, the other a tragic drama of betrayal and redemption. Yet, both grapple with profound questions about human vulnerability, isolation, and the search for meaning amidst suffering. AM YISRAE...
2025-05-011h 19
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowPARSHA & PROSE: TAZRIA/METZORA THROUGH THE LENS OF 'KING LEAR' (AUDIO/VISUAL)Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', and our series, 'PARSHA & PROSE' with RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA, where we dive into the timeless wisdom of the Torah, weaving its teachings with insights from literature, culture, and human experience. In this episode, we explore the Torah portion Tazria-Metzora (Leviticus 12:1–15:33) through the lens of William Shakespeare’s King Lear. At first glance, these texts seem worlds apart—one a sacred exploration of ritual purity and affliction, the other a tragic drama of betrayal and redemption. Yet, both grapple with profound questions about human vulnerability, isolation, and the search for meaning amidst suffering. AM YISRAE...
2025-05-011h 19
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTapping The Heart: How Ivana Chubbuck Transforms Actors (Audio)Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we dive deep into the art and soul of acting. Today, we’re honored to sit down with the legendary Ivana Chubbuck, a world-renowned acting teacher whose transformative Chubbuck Technique has empowered countless performers to tap into their deepest emotions and deliver unforgettable performances. From Hollywood’s biggest stars to aspiring actors, Ivana’s approach to accessing personal pain and feelings has redefined authenticity on screen and stage. Join us as we discuss Ivana's book: THE POWER OF THE ACTOR, a brilliant compendium of thoughts and reflections on working with some of the gr...
2025-04-291h 14The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTapping The Heart: How Ivana Chubbuck Transforms Actors (AUDIO/VISUAL)Welcome to 'The Avrum Rosensweig Show', where we dive deep into the art and soul of acting. Today, we’re honored to sit down with the legendary Ivana Chubbuck, a world-renowned acting teacher whose transformative Chubbuck Technique has empowered countless performers to tap into their deepest emotions and deliver unforgettable performances. From Hollywood’s biggest stars to aspiring actors, Ivana’s approach to accessing personal pain and feelings has redefined authenticity on screen and stage. Join us as we discuss Ivana's book: THE POWER OF THE ACTOR, a brilliant compendium of thoughts and reflections on working with some of the gr...
2025-04-291h 14
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowTORAH, TRUMP & LEADERSHIP: RABBI SHLOMO GEMARA (Audio)In this special, Rabbi Shlomo Gemara, Torah scholar, talks with Avrum Rosensweig about how the Torah defines leadership and the requirements of someone who represents a nation. The Rabbi speaks about President Donald Trumps commitment to the Jewish people and Israel and how that stands in the forefront of his support of him. Whether you are a supporter of President Trump or not, this interview is educational on the Torah ideas re. leadership, both for Jewish and non-Jewish leaders.
2025-04-081h 21
Believe In People PodcastEP. 117: BELIEVE IN PEOPLE. Meet Avrum RosensweigMeet Avrum Rosensweig.We've all heard the phrase ' treat others as you would have them treat you'… well today's guest has turned that into a lifestyle and mission as the founder of “veahavta,’ Avrum Rosensweig has worked with those in poverty around the world. And over the last couple of years he created ‘The Avrum Rosensweig Show,’ where he is able to pat humankind on the back through inspirational interviews.
2025-02-2429 min
The Jewish Lens PodcastThe Jewish Lens presents: podcaster Avrum Rosensweig!This week, The Jewish Lens presents podcaster Avrum Rosensweig!Avrum discusses his podcast, his time having his own TV show, his art, & much more!
2024-08-1252 min
Not That Kind of RabbiAvrum RosensweigThis time on Not That Kind of Rabbi we begin a new chapter by welcoming friend ad wise person, Avrum Rosensweig to the podcast. We'll talk about God, the journey to and away from that G word and why Avrum threw out his yellow suede shoes.
2022-08-2953 min
The Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 59 Tara Slone: Co-Host Hometown Hockey (HNIC), Rock Star, Buddhist & LovelyTara Slone is a multi-talented Canadian, known for her rock n' roll history and co-hosting of Hometown Hockey on Hockey Night in Canada, with Ron Maclean. She is a gentle, zen-like person who exudes real sweetness and empathy for all personkind. I was happy to secure this interview and then to schmooze with Tara, a real Canadian icon. HatRadio! Just a Jewish guy trying to figure things out. HatRadio! is sponsored by Tony Alberga & Family, and Mark Gryfe and Family. Thank you for your support. Music by David Nefesh.
2020-06-2100 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 58 - Rachel Gemara: A Nurse's Account Inside a Covid19 Ward in IsraelThese Corona Virus times are tough for all of us, some more than others. I think we all agree, our front line workers, those smack in the middle of the craziness, are to be embraced for their courage, expertise and ability to respond professionally to this unknown medical nightmare. In that light, please have a listen to this very special interview with Rachel Gemara, a nurse at Shaare Zedek hospital in Jerusalem, Israel who volunteered to work in the hospital's newly launched Covid19 ward. Listen to why she decided to step-up and her account of the last moments of...
2020-05-1700 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio 7 - Ellen Schwartz: Unstoppable Love...Jacob's Mom!Welcome to Corona Radio 7 with our very special guest, Ellen Schwartz. Ellen is a special soul, who together with her husband and children, raised a son, Jacob, who had Canavan Disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The doctors said Jacob would live until around five. He passed away last January at 21 years old. What motivated Jacob's powerful life force? Love, then more love, and more and more. In this Corona virus time, when inspiration and hope are crucial have a listen to my schmooze with Ellen. Here are some of her quotes: "When we stopped trying to fix Jacob, he st...
2020-04-0200 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio 6 - Kim Smiley: The Queen of EmpathyI decided to change my format when the Carona virus began visiting us. I figured its wiser to go to 1/2 hour and hopefully bring a succinct calming voice to HatRadio! listeners. I therefore launched Carona Radio highliting acts of kindness. I'm bringing on guests who are empathetic in nature, positive, and hopeful, one of whom is Kim Smiley. Kim is called the Queen of Empathy. She has intertwined empathy with fashion and shared the outcome with us on Corona Radio. Kim says life is short, fleeting, and now is the time for us to seize the day and get out of...
2020-03-2700 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio 5: Ron Maclean of Hockey Night in Canada Talks Philosophically About Life and the Corona Virus.In this episode of Corona Radio, Ron Maclean of Hockey Night in Canada talks prosaically and philosophically about the struggles of living through this Corona Virus era. He grapples with how to work through our personal challenges vs. communal challenges. He alludes to Don Cherry, his lost friendship, and NHL superstars, in responding to questions about the ethical framework of life. Here his thoughts on greatness, more specifically Wayne Gretzky. Ron embraces life. He loves a lot, everyone. He is extraordinarily well read and in wonderment of life. Have a listen to this fascinating fellow and this unique show o...
2020-03-2300 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio 4: Sharing Information & the Needs of the Jewish Community & Beyond As The Virus SpreadsThe needs of the Jewish community and beyond, are growing as the Corona Virus spreads. Please let me know if you are in need of services, products etc. and I will do my best to put it on the show. Similarly, if you are supplying a need (e.g. The BAYT synagogue has a shopping service for the elderly), let me know as well so we can share your process with others. Thank you to the Alberga Family and the Gryfe Family for their support in keeping Corona Radio going. Please consider helping as well at hatradio.ca/subscribe. G...
2020-03-2200 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio - Show 3: A Bugger of a Virus & Kindness A'Plenty!Well the Corona Virus numbers are increasing just as we suspected. That sucks! Ya, we're worried. But what's increasing as well is the level of goodness and kindness in our community and throughout the world. Have a listen to Corona Radio 4 to hear how that is playing out. I dedicated the show to Ve'ahavta's executive-director, Cari Kozierok, who hopped in the Ve'ahavta homeless van last night and drove it through the laneways of downtown Toronto to ensure those people living on the street would have food, water and warm clothing. While the Corona Virus is daunting to all of...
2020-03-1900 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio Show 2: Thanks to our Courageous Medical PersonnelI recorded Corona Radio - Show 2 - this on March 16th after midnight. I wanted to do it then, as I was tired and could barely keep my eyes open. I felt it was crucial my honesty would find a way to reach you. Hopefully that is the case. Folks, it's a demanding time. It's a scary time but we will overcome! Yes, we will beat this shitty virus. We will beat the Corona Virus together, all seven and half billion of us. And with that, we need to thank the courageous and hardworking medical personnel who are putting...
2020-03-1800 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowCorona Radio Brought to you by HatRadio!: A Calming VoiceThe Corona Virus. It's a thorny time isn’t it? The thing is, the entire planet, every single person in our world, is in this together. Our fears, nervousness, impatience sadness and hope are all pretty much the same. So, I produced a half hour show show called CARONA RADIO to speak to these times and hopefully share a calming voice. I offer ways and means of finding peace from within through book and poetry choices. During the show I suggest you reach out to others telephonically, through social media and in particular through KINDNESS. Ya, kindness. It's a big...
2020-03-1600 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 57 - Mark Diamond: Wow! He Co-Owns a Camp...and the Camp is built on Love!Mark Diamond, my guest on episode 57 of HatRadio!, owns a camp. Imagine! The guy owns a camp. Who wouldn't want that? And not only does he own a camp (actually co-owns it), it is truly one of the most loving, caring, empathetic camps out there. The camp is called Camp Manitou, it's pretty high-end place in Muskoka, Ontario, but the salient point of this interview is that Mark, together with his partner, Jeff, have taken their passion for 'repairing the world' and made it a key component of the camp experience. So, campers will participate in arts, sports and...
2020-03-0600 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 56 - Jeff Woods: The Iconic Kind Smokey-Voiced Rock Radio Legend!Mae West's voice was epic. Raspy epic. Bob Dylan's voice couldn't be mistaken. Listening to Bob sing is like curling up in his nostril and absorbing his breathes. Then there's Jeff Woods, the kid from Oshawa, one of the most talented Rock & Roll historian, authors, broadcaster and podcasters in the world today with a silky smooth voice - one that swaddles a legendary music narrative heard for the last three decades by rock & rollers everywhere. And I got to interview Jeff on HatRadio! - the man who interviewed David Bowie, R.E.M., Pearl Jam, The Eagles, RUSH, Led Z...
2020-02-2100 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 55 - Dr. Gord Arbess: More Motivated Than MeDr. Gordon Arbess is my guest on Episode 55 of HatRadio! Gordy is a family doctor with a focus on HIV/AIDs. He is a highly compassionate award-winning doc who talks in length about the struggles of many of his AIDS patients, in particular those who are older now, several whom who live on/near the street. Gordy explains his empathy for them and addresses my question of where God might fit into his medical work. Our schmooze is fascinating! In the second half, Gord shares stories about his past participation in humanitarian work in Zimbabwe, through Ve'ahavta, on a...
2020-02-1400 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 54 - Robyn Tousson-Segall: Gratitude DefinedWe all try so incredibly hard to construct a meaningful life with love, health and happiness. Robyn Tousson-Segal, my guest on HatRadio!, episode 54, personifies that pursuit in a highly successful way. This articulate and compassionate woman, with a soothing voice, is married to a spirited man. They have grappled with their different approaches to a religious lifestyle, but ultimately made it work in a powerful way. The couple shares three beautiful children, who are insightful and empathetic. Robyn is a well-respected yoga teacher with a waiting list. Her classes are thematic, based on love, caring and empathy. She has...
2020-02-1000 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 53 - Brian Prousky: The Spirited, Creative Man Running Jewish Family & Child ServiceIt's a big deal to be the executive director of the Jewish Family & Child Service (JF&CS) in Toronto. It is because JF&CS is the most important organization in the Jewish community, more important than the kashruth (kosher), cemetery, or the fundraising office. JF&CS has thirty-three programs all of which are crucial toward assisting the most vulnerable in the Jewish community such as those who: suffer from poverty and require funds; have mental health issues; are mourning and feel alone or are going through a high conflict divorce, etc. Now, what sort of person would run a pl...
2020-01-2400 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 52 - David Matlow: The World's Biggest Collector of Theodore Herzl MemorabiliaEpisode 52 of HatRadio! is with David Matlow, the world's biggest collector of Theodore Herzl memorabilia. Herzl is considered the father of Zionism and the visionary for the State of Israel. The idea that someone is the 'biggest' or 'the best' in pretty much anything, has always blown me away. I've had the honor of interviewing Clive Caldwell who was once seeded #1 in the world, in squash doubles/#2 in singles. Recently, I schmoozed with David Shore, the creator/writer of the shows 'House' and 'The Good Doctor'. They are brilliant and at the top of their game. In essence, these guys...
2020-01-1700 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 51 - Adi Berkovits: A Son Creates A Musical Honoring his Father, a Survivor of AuschwitzEpisode 51 of Hatradio! is with Adi Berkovits, a son honoring his father, Eduard, through the creation and eventual performance of an original musical - THE JOURNEY HOME. Adi, a musician and songwriter (and the brother of Lou Berkovits, my first guest on HatRadio!) tells us about the deeply inspiring story of his sixteen year old father's trek, with his thirteen year old brother, to find their home in Romania following their liberation from a concentration camp. The musical - a first of its kind - will be performed at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts on March 25...
2020-01-1000 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 50 - David Shore: Humility within the Creator/Writer of 'House' and 'The Good Doctor'Welcome to the 50th episode of HatRadio! with special guest, David Shore, the creator/writer of the shows: House and The Good Doctor. We start things off with a 26-minute monologue reviewing highlights of HatRadio!'s first year, as well as some encouragement about strengthening our world, and fighting Antisemitism and racism, through positive and complimentary actions with other individuals. The interview with David Shore is truly fascinating. It is because, David, the greatest TV writer in the world today, speaks in philosophical and meaningful terms about his life and career. He states clearly about writing scripts, "it seems poin...
2019-12-2700 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 49 - Rabbi Hecht: Helping Thinkers Find a Home!Welcome to Episode 49 of HatRadio! with our special guest, Rabbi Benjamin Hecht of nishma.org. Benjy is a brilliant Torah scholar, and my brother-in-law. He has helped me and thousands of others with our existential struggles. In a world of 'I'm right, you're wrong and therefore you'll go to hell', Rabbi Hecht's appreciation of a wide spectrum of possibilities - e'lu ve'elu - within a halachic framework’ allowed me and so many others to spiritually breathe. In short, Rabbi Hecht helps thinkers find a home. He believes, “God wants us to think, to grow". Please learn from his personal struggl...
2019-12-2000 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 48 - Randall Craig Wrote a Musical from his Hospital Bed. Life! L'chaim!EPISODE 48 HATRADIO!
Randall Craig was diagnosed with the ‘bad’ type of leukemia. His friends moved a digital piano into his room... and so he started writing a musical - a modern take on the story of Esther. The first song Randall wrote was in his hospital bed right after chemo. His message is, ‘we can all be an Esther’ - courageous with the ability to change the world. His mind is sharp. He is incredibly excited about life with an inimitable spirit; the type God or man cannot keep down. Listen for the ‘Peanut butter’ story. He wakes up every day and with gusto says, ...
2019-12-1300 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 47 - Michael Rubin: A Touching Schmooze with a Soulful Spiritual Director of a SynagogueWe walk through life concentrating on our own stuff. That's inevitable. Then, one day, we see the person next to us, really see them, and realize their life is as significant as ours’s, that an inherent balance exists between us, which translates into equality of all peoples.
When I schmoozed with Michael Rubin on Segment 47 of HatRadio! I was able to see that life-parallelism or sorts. Why? Well because Michael - the Spiritual Director at Beth David Synagogue, once a field-educator (tour guide) in Israel and a hockey player and coach for one of Israel's nation team...
2019-12-0600 min
The Kindness PodcastAvrum RosensweigThere is a beautiful concept in Judaism called Tikkun Olam. It represents the idea that acts of kindness can be used to repair our world. Avrum Rosensweig is the living embodiment of that idea. He is the founder of Toronto’s thriving Jewish Humanitarian Organization, Ve’ahavta and host of the Hatradio! Podcast. Learn more about the group’s work at veahavta.org and listen to Avrum’s podcast at hatradio.CA.
2019-12-0523 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 46 - Rabbi Korobkin Interviews Avrum asking 'Why did you Leave Orthodox Judaism?'Welcome to Episode 46 of HatRadio!. I am a rabbinical son who gave up Orthodox Judaism (Frum Judaism) in my early twenties never to return to it. Many people over the years have asked me, 'why'? In this episode, Rabbi Daniel Korobkin of the orthodox BAYT synagogue (https://www.bayt.ca/) of Toronto, conducts an interview with me asking questions about my decision to leave the belief system of my father and mother. Some of the very compelling questions he ask included: What was the price I paid for leaving Frum Judaism; was I sexually abused, something that could have e...
2019-11-2900 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 43 - Jeff Budd: The Most Splendid of FlowersHere I sit at my computer thinking about Episode 43 of HatRadio! with my guest, Jeff Budd......a really important show!
What to write? How to approach it?
After all Jeff went through, as a kid, the stuff we fear the most - sexual abuse from a teacher. So, I'm mulling this over and thinking, ya he did, and we talked a lot about that time in his life, but you know what, like he told me, he doesn't let that define him as a person. And I love that about Jeff because he means it, an...
2019-11-0800 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 42 - Guidy Mamann: A Type-A Fellow Pursuing the ImpossibleWelcome to Episode 42 of HatRadio! with my guest, the inimitable, Guidy Mamann. The show is sponsored by Gryfe Philanthropic Solutions.
To start the showoff, I spent a few minutes speaking about the Jewish people - a sort of 'did you know'. I discussed an outward approach that Jews take to doing good in the world. Beginning the 40 second mark, you'll get some insight into the Jewish community's work with the homeless and around the globe through Ve'ahavta (Ve'ahavta.org), a local non-profit established to encourage all people to play a role in tikun olam - repairing the w...
2019-11-0100 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 33 - Devora Mason: A Beautiful Citizen of Our WorldDevora Mason is regular folk. Not that her way is mundane or even average, quite the opposite. Devora is colorful and fancy. She's one of 7.7 billion people in this world who travel through life working arduously on growth, try to raise their children to be upstanding citizens and who struggle to make a decent living so she can afford to make thing right for all those she support.
That's Devora...with a healthy smidgeon of 'unique'.
Episode 33 is a schmooze with my niece, Devora Mason who is a beautiful and vivacious personality with a beaming smile- a...
2019-08-2300 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 32 - Doctor Saul Kendal: An 83 Year-Old Dentist, a Friend & a Courageous Man!Episode 32 features Dr. Saul Kendal, an octogenarian who has been practicing dentistry for fifty-nine years. He's my dentist and when we began the interview on Tuesday, August 13th, I was partially drooling from my mouth as it had been frozen, so Saul could put a crown in my tooth. I love this man and couldn't wait to release the interview to my listeners.
Saul was born in Toronto. He was an only child. His parents were Louie and Annie. He was athletic and played basketball (a guard) for his high-school, Harbord Collegiate. Saul excelled at rebounding because he wa...
2019-08-1600 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 27 Benjamin Shinewald: A Worldly Winnipeger Destined to be a Forklift DriverWelcome to Episode 27 of Hatradio! with our guest, Benjamin (Benjy) Shinewald.
A question I always ask myself when I write these blurbs is, why did I bring this particular person on Hatradio! I'm not willy-nilly about my choice of guests. Not at all! I am very particular in fact, as I want to interview folks who are articulate and can express their narrative in a cogent fashion. I delight in schmoozing with a man or woman who has a colorful past. And mostly I enjoy nice people who are thoughtful and by definition, inspiring.
All o...
2019-07-0500 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 24 Avrum Rosensweig, Just Me!THIS EPISODE IS IN MEMORY OF OUR CHILDREN WHO DIED OF HIV/AIDS IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA, OR WHO BECAME ORPHANS BECAUSE OF IT. IT IS IN MEMORY OF OUR NEIGHBORS, WHO LIVED ON THE STREETS OF OUR TOWN AND DIED THERE THIS PAST WINTER. REST IN PEACE. THANK YOU FOR COMING OUR WAY!
Episode 24 of Hatradio! is a first of its kind. It is a 1-man show, Just me!.
I quite enjoyed doing this segment. I enjoyed it because it gave me the chance to talk and hear my own history and how tikun olam (re...
2019-06-1400 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 21 - David Rheaume: Canada's Norman RockwellDavid Rheaume, Canada's Norman Rockwell, is a big man. The bigness i'm talking about is found in this man's spirit.
My old friend, joined me at my place on May 21. 2019 to do an interview. It was lovely to see David as it had been a while.
David and I were inextricably bound together for three years, way back in the days when I was doing a TV series with Marty called, 'The Moveable Feast'. Dave was the director. He did a brilliant job of keeping me and Marty on the straight and narrow (well sort of...
2019-05-2400 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 18 Sadie Domb:The Fascinating Life of Avrum's Son's Bar Mitzvah Teacher!Somewhere, sometime, a young boy or girl sits together with their bar/bat mitzvah teacher learning the ancient art of singing the trope - the notes devised two thousand years ago to celebrate every syllable of the Torah.
The ‘day of’ arrives – the Bar/Bat mitzvah day – and the thirteen year old boy, or the twelve year old girl walks up to the open scroll, the Five books of Moses, and begins to sing. Carefully they manage the revi’i, a note that modestly ends a Torah thought. They breathe deeply to chant the pazer, a noise that curls...
2019-05-0300 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 15 - The Marty & Avrum Radio YearsCan you say which of the decades in your life was the most fun? Is that possible?
From 1995 - 2005, Marty Galin and I, were partners on radio and television, and there is no doubt that those ten years were an absolute blast and indeed, the funnest of my life! Have a listen to this podcast and you'll here all about those special years and our time together, including five years on Talk 640, five years on CFRB and the TV shows we did together like The Movable Feast.
My dear, best friend Marty, is one of...
2019-04-0900 minThe Avrum Rosensweig ShowEpisode 7: Chavi Rosenzweig: My Sister. A Survivor of Tragedy. A Student of Love & Joy!We coddle our kids nowadays rarely letting them out of our site. But Chavi Rosenzweig (born Chavi Rosensweig) the second daughter of a Rabbi and Rebbetzin and a "homebody", left her home in a small city at 14 years of age to attend school in the big city, Toronto. She and her four siblings, 17 and under, shared an apartment together. Imagine! The first part of this interview deals with Chavi’s early years, her memories of the magical environment in her parents home, her love of Judaism and the independence she had to develop. And it’s good she did.
2019-01-2300 min