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Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 330 - A Digestif!While this iteration of Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist might have come to a close, you can still always head to our website (www.drinkinganddrashing.com) to find past episodes, resources, drinks, and merchandise. We are so grateful to have learned with and from you and look forward to the new adventures that await us in the future! Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Website: www.drinkinganddrashing.com Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/xeeghhpSy3 Show the love with...
2023-06-0500 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 329 - Shavuot Revelations with Amanda, Gabe, and EdonWe bring you this final podcast episode as an insider look at Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist. Hear about our proudest moments, our silliest giggles, some of the challenges we’ve faced and overcome, and some of our favorite fan stories that still make us smile. Thanks for the memories listeners—we wish you a Chag Shavuot Sameach (Happy Shavuot!) and hope that you’ll enjoy traveling down memory lane (as we come down Mt. Sinai together) as Amanda, Gabe, and Edon speak from the heart about this meaningful podcasting passion project. To continue the conver...
2023-05-2252 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 328 - B’midbar with Rabbi Andrew A. GoodmanWe begin the fourth book of the Torah—the book of Numbers—with its Hebrew primary parasha—B’midbar! (But, if you ask Amanda, there’s multiple ways you can say this! If you ask Gabe, Amanda’s wrong!) Rabbi Amanda K. Weiss, Canto (one more year until the R!) Gabe Snyder and “Chazanta!” Edon Valdman are thrilled to welcome back Rabbi Andrew A. Goodman to celebrate our penultimate parasha podcast (and Edon’s bar mitzvah portion). What did we talk about? Great question! Tune in to hear about active inclusion, continuous learning, how to ensure that people feel valued, how commun...
2023-05-151h 08Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 327 - Behar-Bechukotai with Miranda BassWOW!!! This week, you’re hearing for the first time ever on our podcast Master of Sacred Music Gabe Snyder and RABBI Amanda K. Weiss! Woohoo! (Chazak chazak v’nitchazek!) We’re not done learning yet! We still have the extraordinary Miranda Bass who walks us through the significance of service (both to the Temple and to your country). Navigating the political landscape is never an easy adventure, but it’s worthwhile to use our values as a compass and our community as a guide. How we treat each other makes a huge difference to where we end up—even when...
2023-05-0857 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 326 - Emor with Rabbi Becky JayeWhen we’re in the middle of counting the Omer (the time between Passover and Shavuot), it’s hard NOT to think about what counts—in our actions, our thoughts, and especially in our words. We were thrilled to welcome back (this time as featured guest!) Rabbi Becky Jaye, Program Manager for Emor: The Institute for Bold Jewish Thought (a project of T’ruah!). We discuss the importance of finding diverse ways to interpret Jewish texts (and practices), and how we might enable people to open up the space for all to share their thoughts safely and clearly. How might we...
2023-05-0156 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 325 - Achrei-Mot–Kedoshim with Gabe, Amanda, and Edon!This is a short one, but a GREAT one! For our second double-portion in a row, we brought you the original trio to speak a bit about this week’s duality: how do we deal with life after death? Or even more so, how can we look at the relationships we hold in life and find ways to find holiness in every interaction? Of course, as always, there’s a run-down AND a special drink! Listen in with your favorite Drinking and Drashing team! Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Tw...
2023-04-2415 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 324 - Tazria-Metzora with Samantha KlipsteinWho doesn’t love a bargain? This week we’re getting an excellent guest to take on not one, but two parashiyot (well, at least a two-in-one because this week we have a double portion!). We are so thrilled to have Samantha Klipstein join us and walk us through what this week’s portion can look like through the lens of modern-day healthcare. How can we provide care and destigmatize diagnoses? How can we ensure that our medical providers are treated with honor and respect? How can we do it all without a sacrificial system? We know that this episod...
2023-04-1736 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 323 - Sh'mini with Cantor Julie Yugend-GreenWhat does it look like to treat those who die with dignity? How can Jewish leaders mourn for and alongside their communities while maintaining the sacred mantle of leadership? In this week’s episode, we were blessed to learn with and from Cantor Yugend-Green, the current Cantor of Oak Park Temple (a special place for Executive Producer, Edon Valdman!). We look at the role of the Chevra Kadisha, the special Jewish burial laws and practices, and what it means to maintain silence (or even what NOT to say) in the face of great adversity. Hebrew Terms Used in...
2023-04-1056 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 322 - Passover with Wendy BerelsonMitzrayim — Hebrew for Egypt — literally means “Narrow Place,” and we found our listenership just a bit too narrow… That is, until we were redeemed by the power of Wyoming. That’s right: we got Wyoming, finally getting the last state in our quest for listeners from all across the country. In honor of that achievement, we are thrilled to celebrate this special Passover episode with Wendy Berelson, a leader in the Laramie, Wyoming Jewish community. Wendy has stepped up in multiple capacities to serve her small-but-mighty community and help it thrive. We talk Passover, tradition, community wo...
2023-04-0347 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 321 - Tzav with Lisa ColtonHow can we look at the opportunities and goals that are constantly changing in the Jewish landscape to help us amplify what success can look like? Innovator, transformer, and community collector, Lisa Colton walks us through the importance of always adapting and adjusting with intention—and ensuring that our values can support those quick and necessary pivots. In this episode we check our preservationist impulses that might keep us stuck (“…but we’ve always done it that way!), and aim to seek how we might be able to celebrate new choices. To continue the conversation: Darim Website...
2023-03-2753 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 320 - Vayikra with Cantor Harriet DunkerleyWhat do we do when we start a new book that feels so far away from the Judaism that we practice now? Spiritual leader, educator and Amanda’s HHD guide Cantor Harriet Dunkerley explains that so many of the values of our sacrifices are practiced in meaningful ways now (thankfully, with less blood!). We discuss what we need to sacrifice to draw closer to others and to ourselves, finding the essential qualities that we all hold inside of every one of us, and how music can bring us to a higher level of individual, communal, and spiritual excellence. We ho...
2023-03-2051 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 319 - Ki Tisa with Dr. Miriam Heller SternWhile this may be one of our first majorly law-centered locations, Mishpatim helps us look at our humanity and our Jewishness as an interconnected feature of Judaism, the Jewish People, and the Jews. Rabbi Howard Goldsmith helps us play with how we might inspire our communities with a people-first approach, discovering our whys by reading past the whats. Whether you’re a listener who intensely follows halakhah (Jewish law), or a person who believes that Jewish law just doesn’t simply apply (excepting those laws who help us treat each other right), then this episode is definitely for you! Bonu...
2023-03-1353 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 318 - Tetzaveh with Sloane ApplebaumHave you ever wondered how artistry and fashion design might enter into our history as a Jewish people? This week, we learned from Sloane Applebaum, Supply Chain Manager for SkinCeuticals at L'Oréal, how fashion can be a collaborative construction. Colors and fabrics can represent status and belonging. Coded messages can be woven in to even the simplest tunics. Building ourselves up as beautifully as we created the blueprints for the Tabernacle, we are planning out the priestly garb. How does this tie into our own preferred fashion tastes? Listen in to hear an episode that can only be c...
2023-02-2752 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 317 - Terumah with Yoshi SilversteinHow can we take ownership and notice of our bodies when we’re building holy dwelling spaces? Everyone has a gift, skill, or offering, that enables us to build sacred communities and spaces. Mitsui Collective Founder and Executive Director Yoshi Silverstein shares his insights about how we find sparks of the divine from within and how to share them via our creations. Increasing our awareness of the capacity of our bodies can truly help us create social change in our communities—the ones in which our bodies live. Are we paying attention to what’s happening inside and around us? In...
2023-02-201h 05Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 316 - Mishpatim with Rabbi Howard GoldsmithWhile this may be one of our first majorly law-centered locations, Mishpatim helps us look at our humanity and our Jewishness as an interconnected feature of Judaism, the Jewish People, and the Jews. Rabbi Howard Goldsmith helps us play with how we might inspire our communities with a people-first approach, discovering our whys by reading past the whats. Whether you’re a listener who intensely follows halakhah (Jewish law), or a person who believes that Jewish law just doesn’t simply apply (excepting those laws who help us treat each other right), then this episode is definitely for you! Bonu...
2023-02-1358 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 315 - Yitro with Rabbi Cece BeyerHave you heard the news?? We’ve just lived through a miracle; we’re going to dance tonight!!! For Parashat Yitro, we’re moving from miraculous redemption to meaningful reality. Lucky for us, we have awesome rabbi, dancer, singer, leyner, and camp-advocate Rabbi Cece! Rabbi Cece walks us through the modalities of mentorship, magic at the mountain, and how to make music even out of the quietest of moments. To continue the conversation: Rabbi Cece’s website: www.RabbiCece.com Rabbi Cece’s Instagram: @rabbicece Rabbi Cece’s Twitter: @rabbicece Find us on social me...
2023-02-0652 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 314 - Beshalach with Cantor Rosalie Will & Cantor Ellen DreskinOur hearts are singing for our third dance with Beshalach, featuring Cantor Rosalie Will and Cantor Ellen Dreskin as our Miriam’s songstresses! In this episode, we lift up the magic of collaborative music, shared faith, and singing communities. We also discuss how song can help us face challenges, conflicts, and challenges, as well as help ensure that our traditions remain relevant and resonant for us all. Oh and also #Edon gifts us with a song near the end of the episode! To continue the conversation: Cantor Dreskin’s website: www.ellendreskin.com LightLab Podcast: http...
2023-01-301h 01Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 313 - Bo with Rabbi Ari GoldsteinFor Parashat Bo, we’re talking plagues, darkness, light, Zionism, and more with guest Rabbi Ari Goldstein. Rabbi Goldstein is Gabe’s mentor at Temple Beth Shalom in Arnold, MD. A fantastic teacher and speaker, Ari shares his thoughts and interpretations, as well has his rabbinic philosophies, taking to heart the difficult balance between reverence for Biblical narrative and historical fact. To continue the conversation: Temple Beth Shalom: AnnapolisTemple.com Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Website: www.drinkinganddrashing.com Our...
2023-01-231h 03Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 312 - Va'era with Judi WilliamsWhat does it look like when we’re in the middle of our arc to redemption—especially when we’re facing a spiritually suffering community and we’re unsure of how to make use of the microphones available to us? Extraordinary educator Judi Williams helps explain how presence can be a form of protest, how to help people learn to speak out for themselves (organizing internally before they organize communally), and how to ensure that the message clearly gets out to the people who need to hear it most. To continue the conversation: Judi’s email: judi.m.wil...
2023-01-1649 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 311 - Shemot with Aliza and Jason PlotkinWelcome back to the Book of Shemot! We’re starting a brand new book, but don’t worry, we have some familiar friends to help us move through it. Welcoming back #TeamPlotkin (Jewish professionals Aliza and Jason Plotkin), we engage with this week’s parasha through a new lens: that of adoption. Jason and Aliza walk us through how adoption can be seen and understood as a Jewish value, as we explore the different family structures that Shemot provides us within our first three chapters of this new book of Exodus (Shemot!). Jewish tradition of adoption: Parash...
2023-01-091h 05Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 310 - Vayechi with Sarit WishnevskiChazak, chazak, v’nitchazeik! We’ve made it to the last book of Genesis and a cinematic peek into the final moments of Jacob’s life. In this episode, we learn about supporting strong and meaningful endings from Sarit Wishnevski, Executive Director of Kavod V’Nichum. We learn about rituals and experiences that help inform our involvement in end-of-life practices that can honor the lives of those we hold dear in our community. Also, you might just learn a secret about the 7th of Adar! To continue the conversation: Kavod V’Nichum’s website: https://kavodvnichum.org F...
2023-01-0248 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 309 - Vayigash with Scott BlackWhat happens when our communities are thrown into just a bit of chaos? What happens when we make plans, but need to also be ready to pivot at the same time? Our guest, today, Director of Operations for Camps Airy and Louise (and Creator of Schwipe!), Scott Black, helps us engage in the work of community-building, even in the face of major challenges. We also engage with AI-Bots, Sefaria, and the missing links that are needed to ensure success for the future. Don’t miss out on this incredible episode, or as Scott’s daughter asks, “Have you talked to Sco...
2022-12-2650 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 308 - Mikeitz with Jesse EpsteinRabbinical Student and generally-impresive-and-very-busy-person Jesse Epstein joins the Drinking and Drashing crew to discus Parashat Mikeitz. Jesse’s entrepreneurial pursuits—most recently, his acquisition and relaunch of the Shmaltz Brewing Company—make him the perfect guest to discuss this Torah portion of dreaming big dreams and making plans to conquer them. Oh, and his Hebrew name is Yosef, so that’s cool. To continue the conversation: Shmaltz Brewing Company's Instagram: @ShmaltzBrewing Shmaltz Brewing Company's website: https://shmaltzbrewing.com Torah and Tourniquets: https://torahandtourniquets.com Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Dras...
2022-12-1958 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 307 - Vayishlach with Rabbi Dr. Kari TulingThrowback to the BEST type of religious school: the one where you had the “cool teacher” who taught you about the craziest Genesis stories and really wanted to know what YOU thought and felt and had to say? What—you didn’t have that experience? Well let us give it to you this week with an excellent teacher—Rabbi Dr. Kari Tuling!—who helps us wrestle with some difficult Torah portions and traditions, thoughts about God, and maintaining vulnerability when entering into real conversation. Whether you’re grappling with God or feeling secure in your Jewish Thought, we think this episode i...
2022-12-0543 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 306 - Toldot with April Baskin and Tracie Guy-DeckerWhat happens when our origin stories don’t really present us in the best light—or even shows us as characters that we don’t identify with? When stories are often shared by “the winners” or the people who wield power, there’s a lot of missed or erased history—all of which influence our greater Genesis understandings. Luckily for us, we were able to learn from April Baskin and Tracie Guy-Decker of Joyous Justice acclaim—how to step back, look around, and listen in order to lift up diverse voices. It’s okay to struggle with our stories—but the Joyous Justi...
2022-11-2147 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 305 - Chayei Sarah with Gabe Snyder and Amanda K. WeissHere’s a short episode because OUR own lives are a little crazy even when it comes during the week that we’re focusing on Sarah’s life! (Or are we?!?) Don’t worry, we’ve still got you covered with that parashah rundown and for midrashic mixology! Looking for a short but sweet conversation with your two favorite best friend cohosts? Look no further—tune in now! Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Website: www.drinkinganddrashing.com Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/xeeghhpSy...
2022-11-1422 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 304 - Vayera with Amelia MerrillStorytime! After journey on Lech L’cha, we have so many different tales in Parashat Vayera. Negotiations, mysterious guests, action scenes, transformations, pseudo-sacrifices, lies, laughs, banishment, abandonment…oh my goodness! Lucky for us, we are able to learn from our guest this week, journalist and playwright Amelia Merrill, how to derive the meaning from the many tales and how to find the balance between seeking the truth and drashing an interpretation. To continue the conversation: Amelia’s Twitter: @ameliamerr_ Amelia’s Instagram: @mia_merrill Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing...
2022-11-0743 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 303 - Lech L’cha with Rabbi Mary ZamoreDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist is on its third round! For our third Lech L’cha episode, we have Women’s Rabbinic Network executive director, Rabbi Mary Zamore. Rabbi Zamore is an ethicist, activist, and awesome guest! This Torah portion is so foundational to the story of the Jewish people, and yet there are several points within it that make us sad, uncomfortable, or angry. How do we hold this text as sacred while also recognizing its faults? What can we learn from the mistakes of our shared past? How can we go forth together toward a more...
2022-10-3159 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 302 - Noach with Rabbi Dennis RossWhat happens when the world is being destroyed and recreated and you find yourself in the middle of it? How do we manage our relationships and communication amidst chaos? Rabbi Dennis Ross shares his wisdom—both as an intentional interim rabbi and as an expert on Martin Buber—with us and our listeners about how we might be able to read Noah through a new lens: that of relationship-building and dialogue, of transitions and the temporary nature of our tradition. About Martin Buber: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/buber/ About Gustav Landauer: https://theanarchistlibrary.org/library/jame...
2022-10-2453 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 301 - Bereshit with Leana Jelen TapnackWay to kick off Season 3 ON A JEWISH HOLIDAY! We begin again with Parashat Bereshit, recording during our sofrut (Scribal Arts class) at school with our incredible teacher Leana Jelen Tapnack who helps us understand how it is that we can literally create our own Torah and stories, regardless of gender, fear of failure, or a limited knowledge base. We were also thrilled to welcome fourth year HUC-JIR rabbinic student (and fellow sofrut stan!) Ilana Symons. To continue the conversation: Leana’s Instagram: @sofer_so_good Ilana’s Email: ilana.symons@huc.edu The Pard...
2022-10-1800 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 247 - V'Zot HaBrachah with Gabe SnyderIt was SO nice that we did it TWICE! Gabe took over our LAST parashah of our second season—V’zot Habracha and it was SUCH a blessing! We can’t believe that we’ve come to the end of our second season and are so appreciative that we get a chance to “turn it, turn it, turn it again” at Simchat Torah! L’chayim to all of our listeners and supporters and chazak chazak v’nitchazek (may we all be strengthened)! Find us on social media: Facebook: Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist Instagram: @Drin...
2022-10-1710 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 246 - Ha’Azinu with Rabbi Amalia MarkWe fear we do not have the time to write this week’s blurb all in rhyme—but welcome to our penultimate parasha with Ha’azinu! We hope that you’ll listen up and listen in to the incredible organized chaos of this episode and the calming, passionate, and poetic presence of Rabbi Amalia Mark, Director of Programs and Partnerships at Mayyim Hayyim. Whether speaking to pleas, poetry or preparing for transitions, Amalia helps us wade through the transformational comfort of the ritual mikveh bath and its meaning to us today. To continue the conversation: Amalia’s Instagra...
2022-10-0348 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 245 - Vayeilech with Ethan HelfandWelcome to 5783—this is our FIRST episode of the new year and we’re so excited to be heading out (soon!) of Deuteronomy while we enter into a new year with new/old friends. Luckily for us, we have a strong and resolute leader in Ethan Helfand who helps us understand managing change, remembering and supporting those who struggle, and trusting the process and the preparation. Shout out to Executive Producer Edon Valdman for his increased participation this week, and of course, #DoGoodThings and #MazalTovJoshie! (Oh right, and Happy Birthday Amanda!) To continue the conversation: Ethan’s emai...
2022-09-2648 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 244 - Nitzavim with Maharat Rori Picker NeissCan you even STAND it? We might be missing Gabe and Edon this week, but don’t worry—we have an incredible episode with two dynamic debuts! We learn about our own personal power, decision-making, and how we can lift up all voices within our communities from extraordinary friend and guide Maharat Rori Picker Neiss AND we get to gab with our incredible editor Kate Griffin! You’re not going to want to miss out on how YOUR Torah might just pop up in this particular parasha! To continue the conversation: Rori’s Facebook: Rori Picker Neiss
2022-09-1955 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 243 - Ki Tavo with Jill ZenoffJill Zenoff joins us for a delicious (if not overly-cheesy) episode for Parashat Ki Tavo. A friend of farms and food, Jill brings a unique perspective to our conversation about first fruits, blessings, curses, and — of course — cheese. We love cheese. How does the first harvest connect to our world today? How does it connect to Tikkun Olam — repairing the world? We’ll cover all this and more, all with a taste of Torah and — again — cheese. In fact, in a Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist first, Jill pairs our Midrashic Mixology cocktail with a cheese! This episode is b...
2022-09-121h 03Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 242 - Ki Teitzei with Jacob StoehrWhen we’ve been wandering in the desert for what seems like forever, when is the right time to check in on our organizational missions and visions, our time management, and our overall cultural design? It’s possible that this week’s guest, ADP Workforce Management Consultant Jacob Stoehr might have a new take on how to find the value and thematic connections on the seventy-four mitzvot that occur in this week’s episode, err, we mean Torah portion! For Parashat Ki Teitzei, Jake talks about the idea of always helping design for people—giving people the solutions...
2022-09-0554 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 241 - Re’eh with Rabbi Ariel NavehIn this week’s episode, Amanda coins a new term: “nudgecator.” What’s a nudgecator? Let’s ask Rabbi Ariel Naveh! For Parashat Re’eh, Rabbi Ari talks with us about a pursuit of justice for the future by reckoning with our past. Whether it’s passages of Torah or moments in American history, we need to be able to look back and be honest about the darker elements. And, as we say throughout the episode, that can be really hard. So join us as we talk Torah, history, and action for this week’s episode. To continue th...
2022-08-2246 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 240 - Eikev with Romina (Romi) Naparstek“They tried to kill us, we won, let’s eat” might be a temporary tagline, but when it comes down to it, food is often the defining factor that helps us bring Judaism to the table. What makes Judaism and food so appetizing? We were lucky to have Early Childhood Academy Director and pastry chef Romina (Romi) Naparstek with us to help us explain the blessings of all of the steps that come in creating a meal. When was the last time you remembered to savor the people around the table? To give thanks for each part (and person) who he...
2022-08-1553 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 239 - Va'etchanan with Sasha KoppV’ahavtah, fused glass, early childhood education… What do these things have in common? They’re all main points of conversation in this week’s episode! We had so much fun learning and playing with Sasha Kopp and Aliza Plotkin to talk about Parashat Vaetchanan and learning with the youngest members of our communities. To continue the conversation: The Jewish Education Project: JewishedProject.org Sasha’s Website: SashaKopp.com Sasha’s Glass Art on Instagram: @FusedGlassworksBySasha Aliza’s Instagram: @Aliza131 Additional ECE Resources: https://www.newsweek.com/early-childhood-educators-are-essential-our-economy-our-future-opinion-1560933 Teachers are our Buildi...
2022-08-0856 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 238 - Pinchas with Rabbi Naamah KelmanWould it really be a Year-in-Israel reunion episode without the Dean of the HUC Jerusalem campus Rabbi Naamah Kelman? Absolutely not! All of us have a go-to memory of learning with and being supported by Rabbi Kelman during our Year-in-Israel and we are just a small part of her legacy of teaching current and future Jewish leaders in the field! Speaking of rebellion, restoration, representation, leadership, legacy, and so much more, we are honored to continue the learning—even if it’s on an international scale! We were also thrilled to welcome fifth year nonbinary cantorial student Jordan Goldstein as o...
2022-07-181h 00Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 237 - Balak with Eliana LightWhile we may need to [legally] acknowledge that Parashat Balak is NOT the same as the Shrek trilogy, we are grateful to have Eliana Light, songleader and prayerground phenomenon helping us find the Jewish joy in this week’s episode. Whether talking about the magic behind Mah Tovu or how we might protest against a prayer practice that is a struggle for us, both Eliana Light and Q&A guest Becky Mann bring forward the idea that music in itself is magical and that we have a lot to look forward to when we’re able to draw a line...
2022-07-111h 02Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 236 - Chukat with Amanda K. Weiss and Gabe SnyderWhat do you do when decisions that your national community are making are heartbreaking, troubling, and traumatic? You find a way to bring yourself and your issues to the Torah portion of the week. We do this with recent decisions by the US Supreme Court in this week’s episode featuring your co-hosts who had a lot of thoughts and feelings and yes, perspectives that we wanted to share. While we didn’t smash anything physically this week, we took a swing at why the Judaism that we practice has a lot to say on the issues that we’re fac...
2022-07-0427 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 235 - Korach with Andrew BelinfanteBringing a worldly perspective to Parashat Korach, we are so excited to have on Andrew Belinfante. An organizer and community builder, Andrew travels the world as the Senior Director of Programs and Organizational Development at JDC Entwine. He brings to the show an excellent perspective on leadership, community, and Jewish tradition. We’ll discuss rebellion, reconciliation, and renewal within this Torah portion and beyond. To continue the conversation: Andrew’s Twitter: @AndrewBdotcom Andrew’s Instagram: @AndrewBdotcom Andrew’s email: andrewbelinfante@gmail.com JDC Entwine: jdcentwine.org Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/xeegh...
2022-06-2754 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 234 - Sh’lach L’cha with Lt. Matt DerenbacherIn Parashat Sh’lach L’cha, the Israelites are getting ready to enter and conquer the Land of Israel. In their preparation, they send out 12 scouts to go through the Land and bring back a report. And grapes. To discuss this mission, we brought in our friends and classmates, Lt. Matt Derenbacher (USAF) and Ensign Laynie Zell (USN), each of whom chose to pursue military chaplaincy during their time at Hebrew Union College. In this episode, we’ll discuss the role of chaplains in the US military, Matt and Laynie’s experiences in their roles so far, and, as always...
2022-06-2047 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 233 - Beha'alotcha with Cantor Josh RosenbergIn the words of this week’s guest, “The role of an educator is to facilitate other’s learning,” and we loved learning with Cantor Josh Rosenberg, educator extraordinaire! Josh talked with us about music, learning, and a love of community, all in light of Parashat B’haalot’cha. How do we balance structure and silliness, formality and freedom? How do we harness the energy of our communities to best bring joy and learning to our work? To continue the conversation: Temple Beth Elohim: TBEWellesley.org Our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/xeeghhpSy3 Show the l...
2022-06-1346 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 232 - Nasso with Rabbi Andrea Weiss, Ph.D.What do you talk about when two extraordinary rabbis join you with the gift of their presence? SO MUCH! With Rabbi Andrea Weiss, Ph.D. and Rabbi Rachael Pass, we learn how each of us have a gift to bring to the world, especially if we’re willing to be present in the moment. Grappling with our ability to bring ourselves to the reading while struggling with unjust juxtapositions between ancient texts and contemporary issues, we welcome a strong commentary on Nasso through a feminist lens (continuing a strong legacy of women clergy). To continue the conversation:
2022-06-0656 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 231 - B’midbar with Mariely LuengoWe may be starting a new book, but also a brand new type of episode! We welcome in a difficult look at B’midbar where we talk about data, storytelling, and what happens when the right people are doing the counting (and recording the data!). With two Wonder Women—Mariely Luengo and Rabbi Stacy Schlein taking on the incredible work of this show (#ClevelandRepresent)—we get an insight into how we might be able to push back against a portion (or even a people) that might try to leave certain sections of society out of the story. Who counts? Who do...
2022-05-3053 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 230 - Bechukotai with AKWWe know that this spring’s episodes have been a bit sporadic but we wanted to make sure that we ended Leviticus with a little bit of learning and leaving into our personal and podcast-related challenges and successes! Hear a bit about what’s been going on, some of our proudest wins, and take a bit of Torah with you as we end this book and get ourselves strengthened up to take on another! Enjoy this SHORT episode and we hope that you might help support many more! To continue the conversation: Amanda’s email: Amanda.K.Weis...
2022-05-2304 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 229 - Behar with Eric FingerhutWhat can the world look like when we take a moment to celebrate the gifts that we have (especially those that come from the ground? Eric Fingerhut, President and CEO of The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) reminds us to really embrace those full rest opportunities, celebrate our commonalities, and remember our love of living for liberty. What happens when we as individuals come together to share our strengths as a community? Judaism in the form of a vibrant experiential education. To continue the conversation: Eric’s email: Eric.Fingerhut@jewishfederations.org JFNA Facebook: Je...
2022-05-1650 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 228 - Kedoshim with Rabbi Rebecca RosenthalWhat does it mean to be holy? What is the path to holiness? Can we have different paths within Judaism? On this episode of Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist, Gabe is joined by guest co-host Agnes Valdman, an HUC cantorial student, (newly!) married to Executive Producer Edon Valdman. Together, they have a discussion with educator-extrodinaire Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, the Director of Youth and Family Education at Central Synagogue in New York City. With Torah and West Wing references abound, this conversation is fun and fruitful! To continue the conversation: Rabbi Rosenthal at...
2022-05-0252 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 227 - A Classic Twist: Revisiting Ep 20.5 (A Zissen Pesach!)We admit it—we’re taking a bit of a taste of that Passover freedom and giving ourselves a week from recording—BUT we wouldn’t leave you with an afikomen present! Listen to this classic twist on A Zissen Pesach (or what happened the first time we realized we could record without a Torah portion!) and check out any of our Passover-related episodes listed below. A sweet Passover holiday to all of you! Episodes Amanda mentions in her intro: Ep. 212 - Shemot with Rabbi Jessica Minnen Ep. 210 - Vayigash with Liana Wertman Ep. 11 - Va'era...
2022-04-1132 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 226 - Metzora with Rachel WeissIn this episode, Rachel Weiss joins us to discuss how society reacts to illness (sound relevant?) from her perspective as Communications Director at Health and Human Services in the office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs. Listen in as we read our current pandemic into the text of Parashat Metzora and, as always, read out some ancient wisdom. To continue the conversation: Rachel Weiss on LinkedIn: Rachel Weiss Justin Spiro on Twitter: @jusrangers NEW DISCORD LINK: https://discord.gg/xeeghhpSy3 Show the love with some Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist...
2022-04-0454 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 225 - Tazria with Karly GrossmanWhile many of us turned to Tazria during the beginning of the pandemic—hoping to find some real wisdom, Karly Grossman—disabled activist, writer, and organizer—shares with us that there’s still so much for us as a society to learn. We engage with Tazria through a disability justice lens and explore what it means to be inside and outside the camp and the ramifications of those labels in modern-day society. We were also so lucky to learn from third-year HUC-JIR rabbinical study Emily Dana who shared her voice and views (and lived experience!) as our Q&A guest.
2022-03-2847 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 224 - Sh’mini with Rabbi David Levin-KrussHow do we make sense of a Torah portion that is — in Amanda Katherine Weiss’s words — “savage?” I guess we’ll need a good Teacher, one like Rabbi David Levin-Kruss, Director of Jewish Education for JDC Europe and Jewish Learning Director for Yesod Europe. For Parashat Sh’mini, we’re discussing Jewish Education and how we put learning into practice. To continue the conversation: Rabbi Levin-Kruss’s email: dlk@jdc.org NEW DISCORD LINK: https://discord.gg/xeeghhpSy3 Show the love with some Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist merchandise at store.drinkinga...
2022-03-2155 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 223 - Tzav (and Purim!) with Shaun EliIs there a way to find the laughs in Leviticus? Jewish comedian Shaun Eli is determined to show us that it’s possible! We combine Tzav with Purim with the incredible gifts of candor, comedy, and some tricks of timing from an incredible synagogue comedian. We have the incredible luck of getting two comedians for the price (?) of one and were thrilled to welcome Jeremy Drazner (shout out once again to Camp Ramah of Wisconsin!) as our Q&A guest.  To continue the conversation: Shaun Eli’s websites: BrainChampagne.com / SynagogueComedian.com Ivy League of Comed...
2022-03-1452 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 222 - Vayikra with Rabbi Leora KayeIt’s midterms week—so let’s start a new book! We are heading into the book of Leviticus with none other than the incredible Rabbi Leora Kaye—who brings some incredible substance to what people might mistake for a mostly legal tome. In a portion that allows for us to step forward in times of guilt or sorrow, we welcome you to find and encounter the incredible gifts that our conversations have to offer—including in the interfaith and conversion education arenas. We are so pleased to also welcome Cantor Stefano Iacano as our Q&A guest (and forever Ka...
2022-03-0752 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 221 - Pekudei with Rabbi Lyle RothmanWe are ending the Book of Exodus, but we couldn’t be further from the finish line! We do love when a good plan turns into great practice and setting the scene for some familiar faces. We are thrilled to welcome back Rabbi Lyle Rothman who is a Pekudei phenomenon (from bar mitzvah to rabbinic sermon to being read this year on his birthday!). Rabbi Lyle has also brought to the Drinking and Drashing set two incredible student filmmakers from the University of Miami, Elinor Howells and Travis Laub, as our Q&A guests, but SURPRISE! He gets to as...
2022-02-2844 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 220 - Vayakhel with Maayan ShapurkarFrom India to Israel, Maayan Shapurkar is taking us on a global tour of what it looks like to move from plan to implementation. Be it building communities, creating camp programming, inspiring volunteers, reuniting friends virtually, or reminding us that volunteering can actually get you more than you give, Maayan gives us so many insights into how the Jewish community in India works and how it’s okay to take time to be creative and build out what makes you happy! We are also thrilled to welcome HUC-JIR JDC-Entwine India trip alum and erev Rav Jill Rubin as our Q...
2022-02-2152 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 219: Ki Tisa with Rabbi Ben Spratt and Cantor Shayna De LoweIn times of missing leadership, it’s easy to understand how a crowd could descend into crisis and chaos. When leadership is great and change is understood, a crowd turns into a community, one which is willing to stretch with its leaders, supporting, pivoting, and contributing to the change at hand. We welcomed the brilliance of Rabbi Ben Spratt and Cantor Shayna De Lowe of Congregation Rodeph Sholom as we navigated losing the scarcity mindset, leaning into the benefits of change and constraints, and finding holy moments (even when in hidden clefts). To continue the conversation: Ra...
2022-02-1455 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 218 - Tetzaveh with Rae AntonoffIt is not a stretch to say that the Tabernacle was a piece of art—but so too does that artwork stretch into Tetzaveh as we figure out the “fit” of Judaism. We are so lucky to have micrography artist and Jewish educator Rae Antonoff who teaches us how art can blend into the holy (and vice versa). Blending creativity and craft together, we explore Tetzaveh through an artist’s eye. We also welcome Arielle Stein, third year rabbinical student at HUC-JIR and co-creator of a clerical artist’s beit midrash as a Q&A guest. To continue t...
2022-02-0753 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 217 - Terumah with Asher GreenbergHas the imagining and directions of the Tabernacle ever confused you? Well, apparently steveworks’ Production Manager—Asher Greenberg—is not intimidated! These holy blueprints are a lot more specific than what he’s used to when it comes to designing and building a home where one can dwell. Hear more about the mishkan, sustainable building, and how our gifts (and our communities) can create holy spaces together. To continue the conversation: steveworks Website: steveworks.com steveworks Facebook: @steveworksLLC steveworks Instagram: @steveworksRemodeling Asher’s Email: asher@steveworks.com Show the love with some Drink...
2022-01-3144 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 216 - Mishpatim with Mike ScheinbergWhat can you do with a portion that tends to be a little dry unless you’re into legal tomes? You bring those laws to life and into conversation. This week we’re looking into the one place in the Torah where one might find a rationale for abortion access (in Parashat Mishpatim, Exodus 21:22). Through an incredible conversation with Development Director at Falls Church Healthcare Center of Mike Scheinberg, we talk about abortion rights, abortion access, and reproductive justice—and how each of these can be strongly influenced through a Jewish lens. We also welcome Michaela Brown, third-year rabbinical studen...
2022-01-2453 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 215 - Yitro with Jon Adam RossIn[heir]ited wisdom isn’t the end all and be all of our knowledge—we learn best when we’re able to share these stories with others and learn from their stories as well. Not only do we learn this from Moses and Yitro in this week’s portion, but we also get the benefit of learning from collaborative creator extraordinaire—JAR!—that is, Jon Adam Ross of the In[HEIR]itance Project. Hear about how we can use collaborative art to create communities, take new ownership of the text, and inspire an individual idea of what makes Torah tick...
2022-01-171h 14Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 214 - Beshalach with Cantor Julia Cadrain and Elana ArianReady to make those good and healing vibrations during an Omicron spread in 2022? So are we! Get ready to raise your timbrels and your glasses with and to Cantor Julia Cadrain and Elana Arian in this incredibly special music-based episode on Beshallach! And surprise—Gabe might have some extra cheer for you during this week’s Midrashic Mixology. Shiru—make some noise! To continue the conversation: Cantor Julia Cadrain’s Facebook: @CantorJuliaCadrain Cantor Julia Cadrain’s Instagram: @CantorJuliaCadrain Temple Israel of Westport: TIWestport.org Elana Arian’s Website: ElanaArian.com Elana Arian’s Facebook: @E...
2022-01-1045 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 213 - Bo with Rabbi Joel SimondsNew Year—new episode! We are bringing it back to Bo and invite you to come along with us as we strongly connect it through a Jewish lens. With founding Executive Director of the Jewish Center for Justice, Rabbi Joel Simonds, we dig into darkness, learn how to see the other, struggle with hardened hearts, and acknowledge the nuance that may just inspire us to move forward. We also welcome Elias Chajet, fourth-year rabbinical student at HUC-JIR as our Q&A guest. To continue the conversation: Jewish Center for Justice: JewishCenterforJustice.org Twitter: @JewishCJustice In...
2022-01-0353 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 212 - Shemot with Rabbi Jessica MinnenWe are so excited to start a brand new story with both the parasha and Book of Shemot! We hear about our ancestors’ entry to Egypt and are introduced to Moses—baskets, burning bushes, and bringing some awesome women into the story! We’re so excited to have an extraordinary guest with us this week—Rabbi Jessica Minnen—who celebrates some irreverent Torah summaries with us and brings her own spice to the story of Shemot (the first piece of Torah that she had ever studied)! Fun fact: we bring it back to the documentary of The Prince of Egypt....
2021-12-2057 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 211 - Vayechi with Rabbi Chaya BenderWhen we are facing life-and-death situations, we might be rethinking what our blessings are, or who we want to be remembered as. What happens when those blessings (or identity characteristics) are ascribed to you by someone else who’s on their deathbed? That’s what we deal with in Parashat Vayechi and Rabbi Chaya Bender reminds us about how death (or near-death experiences) might really be an incredible inspiration for how to live a truly meaningful life.  To continue the conversation:  Rabbi Bender’s website: RabbiChayaBender.com Rabbi Bender’s Instagram: @RabbiChayaBender Rabbi Bender’s F...
2021-12-1350 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 210 - Vayigash with Liana WertmanWhether picking up something new or rededicating yourself to something you might have dropped, all it might take is one step forward. That’s how Torah lover and teacher (and creator of The Torah Studio!) Liana Wertman looks at building relationship and dialogue with the Torah. We have the ability to connect to the core and take ownership of the Jewish lives we lead. To continue the conversation: Torah Studio Instagram: @TorahStudio Torah Studio Website: TheTorahStudio.org Find us on social media: Facebook: @DrinkingandDrashing Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Show the love wi...
2021-12-0752 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 209 - Miketz with Jessica HerrmannDreams do come true! We had an incredible time deciphering dreams, joking about job titles, and seeking out how service learning and leadership can impact our lives. It was wonderful  to connect with one of our “superfans” Jessica Herrmann, Director of Jewish Service Learning at Moishe House, and to hear how challenging experiences can shape us, even when we’re not entirely sure that we’re ready to face them. Looking to learn more about how you can make a difference? Wondering how service learning opportunities can be found in Moishe House and elsewhere? Well pinch yourself and look no furthe...
2021-11-2957 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 208 - Vayeshev with Joseph Levin-ManningWe are positive that listening to this episode will make you want to settle in and listen up! How can we blend Torah, musicals, and human resources? Well, it’s pretty easy when you have a guest like Joe Levin-Manning and a Q&A guest like Jordan Schenker! Focusing in on how to incorporate how Joseph’s job roles might be read into how we might “do work” the right way, Joe and Jordan explain to us some concepts on how to ensure that we see what really might work in the workplace! To continue the conversation: Joe’...
2021-11-221h 02Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 207 - Vayishlach with Rabbi Sandra LawsonWhat might Judaism looked like if we reconstructed it to ensure that all voices were lifted up, that all stories were included? Well, that’s what our incredible featured guest Rabbi Sandra Lawson is trying to do with her anti-racism work with Reconstructing Judaism and with her incredible social media presence! Judaism can look like so many things to so many people and it’s up to everyone to remember that we’re all related through the same divine spark! To continue the conversation: Rabbi Sandra Lawson’s Social Media: https://solo.to/RabbiSandra Rabbi Sandra L...
2021-11-1552 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 206 - Vayetzei with Cantor Josh BreitzerWe hope that you’re looking for some major excitement because this is no minor parasha! We’re sure that these two cantors will strike a chord with you about all of the things that cantors can do, including finding holiness, uncovering secrets, or ensuring that music truly reaches all of its listeners in new and exciting ways. We are very grateful to Cantor Josh Breitzer and Cantor Mary Rebecca Thomas for letting us start off this week on a high note! #allofthepuns To continue the conversation: Cantor Breitzer’s Instagram: @AuralTorah Cantor Thomas’ Instagram: @MRebecca...
2021-11-0859 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 205 - Toldot with Jodi RudorenExtra extra! If you’re in for some incredible tale-telling and a whole lot of action, the Toldot’s the above-the-fold parasha for you! We welcome The Forward’s Editor Jodi Rudoren and journalist Bryan Kalbrosky to discuss how journalism’s values align with Judaism, how to deal with difficult stories, and what it looks like to embrace the flaws of some of our favorite characters. You’ll also get to hear Amanda freak out because her senior sermon is so soon! To continue the conversation: The Forward: Forward.com The Bintel Brief Podcast: https://forward.co...
2021-11-0157 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 204 - Chayei Sarah with Emily GoodsteinWhat is strategy? What does “lasuach” mean? What makes a call to action successful? Join us for these questions and more with master digital marketing strategist for the non-profits of the world, Emily Goodstein, founder and CEO of Greater Good Strategy. We’ll chat, laugh, and learn with Emily throughout this delightful camel ride of an episode. To continue the conversation: Emily’s Instagram: @EmilyGoodstein Emily’s Twitter: @EmilyGoodstein Emily’s email: emily@greatergoodstrategy.com Terms: Lasuach: This word is a hapax legomenon, meaning it only appears once in the entire Torah, so we...
2021-10-2544 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 203 - Lech L'cha with Margarita KorolYou’ve been on this journey with us for a FULL YEAR OF TORAH! (Wow!!!) Join featured rockstar featured guest Margarita Korol for an artistic exploration of Lech L’cha including a lens of grief that we don’t always talk about (it’s hard to leave places and people behind!). Margarita also introduced us to the very special history of Russian-speaking immigrants and how there are incredible communities of Russian-Speaking Jews all over America! We were also thrilled to welcome grief influencer Nadine Menashe as our Q&A guest and to make a very special drink for “Midrashic Mixology”...
2021-10-111h 02Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 202 - Noach with Stephanie TarloweThis week, for Parashat Noach, it’s raining cats and dogs! Join us for a discussion with Dr. Stephanie Tarlowe, a veterinarian at a mixed animal practice in the rural heart of Ohio’s Amish community. And because our guests come two-by-two, we were joined by Alyssa Chalmin, a third year veterinary student at the University of Pennsylvania, to ask some questions and expand the conversation. Hop on the ark, and take a listen! To continue the conversation: Alyssa’s Instagram: @AlyssaChalmin Alyssa’s Facebook: @Alyssa.Chalmin Alyssa’s Linkedin: Alyssa Chalmin Find us on...
2021-10-0443 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 201 - Bereshit with Rabbi Alejandro AvrujWe can’t believe it, but we’re starting the Torah AGAIN! Join us as we figure out our place in the garden, learn about rivalries in South American fútbol, and enjoy hearing some of the incredible Torah and insights of Rabbi Alejandro Avruj. We were also very excited to welcome Rafi Jacobovitz, creator of “Crew” as our Q&A guest. As Gabe likes to say, “Let’s get started!” To continue the conversation: For all things Rab Ale Avruj: https://linktr.ee/Rab.AleAvruj Rab Ale’s Instagram: @RabAleAvruj Communidad Amijai: Amijai.org Rafi’s In...
2021-09-2751 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 44 - V'zot HaBrachah with GABE, Amanda, and Edon!What happens when co-host Gabe Snyder is put in charge of the last episode of season one—the ULTIMATE parasha? Well…you get a hint in this week’s parasha name—V’zot Habracha—this is the blessing! Gabe, Edon, and Amanda all look back at this first “year” of Torah and share our appreciation for the journey before we “turn it, turn it, turn it again” at Simchat Torah! L’chayim everyone and chazak chazak v’nitchazek (may we all be strengthened)! Find us on social media: Facebook: @DrinkingandDrashing Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Show the love with some Drink...
2021-09-2324 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 43 - Ha'Azinu with Amanda, Gabe, and Edon!Looking for something short and sweet to kick off the New Year? Look no further! This is a short episode with the trio as we make our way through the High Holy Days of 5782! No worries—enjoy a very special episode (and distilled parasha summary and well-timed drink for your break-fast!). We hope that all of you are sealed in the Book of Life—L’chayim! Find us on social media: Facebook: @DrinkingandDrashing Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Show the love with some Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist merchandise at store.drinkinganddrashing.com, and don’t...
2021-09-1518 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 42 - Vayeilech with Rabbi Jamie SerberRosh Hashanah is known for being awesome and frightening—a balance that occurs regularly for those involved in end-of-life care. As we begin heading towards the end of Moses’ life, we find ourselves wondering about how Jewish values are included as death approaches. We were lucky enough to learn from hospice chaplain Rabbi Jamie Serber and chaplain Rabbi Natalie Shribman who helped us understand some of the most emotionally difficult and taxing parts of the work. To continue the conversation: Rabbi Jamie Serber’s website: MyRabbiJamie.com Rabbi Jamie Serber’s Instagram: @MyRabbiJamie Rabbi Natalie...
2021-09-0942 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 41 - Nitzavim with Rabbi Elisa KoppelDecisions, decisions—they always seem so easy when you’re making them for someone else and so difficult when it’s your own decisions on the line! However, Rabbi Elisa Koppel reminds us that part of our superpowers lie in the ability to act, to choose, and to remember how powerful we are. We were also thrilled to welcome Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar as our Q&A guest. To continue the conversation: Rabbi Koppel’s Twitter: @RabbiIsa Rabbi Koppel’s Instagram: @RabbiIsa Rabbi Koppel’s Facebook: @Elisa.Koppel Rabbi Milan-Polisar’s Facebook: @ArielDina Rabbi Milan-Po...
2021-09-0150 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 40 - Ki Tavo with Jason SusserIt’s never easy to find your way in a new place (and sometimes it’s very difficult to even find your way in!). In this week’s parasha Ki Tavo, we’re learning about what to do in the land—and we’re lucky to welcome immigration lawyer Jason Susser (of Siskind Susser), sharing with us some of the difficulties and values that come into consideration when dealing with immigration (surprise!!! It’s not all about politics!). We were also thrilled to welcome Edon Valdman, who took on yet ANOTHER role in the Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist journe...
2021-08-2450 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 39 - Ki Teitzei with Scott ShayIn Jewish Tradition (Shabbat 31a) we learn that the first question asked at the heavenly gates is: “Were you honest in your business dealings?” Lucky for us, we were able to explore some of the business ethics and general emphasis on greater humanitarian practice with Scott A. Shay the cofounder and Chairman of Signature Bank. Whether talking about the practical aspects of idolatry (“In Good Faith!”), discussing how Hillel influences the bank’s standards and procedures, or exploring how we can genuinely interact and engage with a strong interest in each other’s growth, Scott taught us a lot not only abo...
2021-08-1754 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 38 - Shof'tim with Yochi RappeportFounded in December 1988, at the first International Jewish Feminist Conference in Jerusalem, Nashot HaKotel/Women of the Wall has been fighting, advocating, and protesting for equality for all sects and genders at one of Judaism’s holiest sites, the Western Wall, for over 30 years. For Parashat Shof’tim, we are thrilled to welcome Yochi Rappeport, the executive director of Women of the Wall. This Torah portion revolves around the pursuit of justice, and we can think of no greater example than that of this remarkable organization. To continue the conversation: Women of the Wall’s website: https...
2021-08-0954 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 37 - Eikev with Noah Rubin-BloseThis week, we’re talking about food, gratitude, and blessings. For parashat Eikev, we are joined by Reconstructionist Rabbinical College student and cookbook author Noah Rubin-Blose to discuss the intersection of cooking and Jewish values. We also have Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion rabbinical student Melissa Carp, a cook and foodie in her own right, as our Q&A guest. B’tei’avon (Hebrew for “bon appétit”)! To continue the conversation: Noah’s Twitter: @MakingtheTable Noah’s Instagram: @MakingtheTable Noah’s website: MakingtheTable.com Melissa’s Instagram: @MeliciousTov Noah’s cookbook: indiebound...
2021-07-2641 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 31 - Chukat with Halie SoiferDrinking, Drashing, Democrats, and Democracy: a pretty decent blend if we do say so ourselves! We recognize that leadership isn’t always easy and discuss with Halie Soifer, CEO of the Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) how to ensure that we’re working towards justice and equality for all. We also welcome Stephanie Hausner, President of Blue Hudson Consulting Group as our Q&A guest.  To continue the conversation: Halie’s Twitter: @HalieSoifer Jewish Democratic Council of America: www.JewishDems.org JDCA Instagram: @USJewishDems Stephanie’s Twitter: @StephHausner Stephanie’s Instagram: @StephHausne...
2021-06-1551 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 23 - Mot-Kedoshim with Hen MazzigBeing a holy people can be tough, but such is the challenge for am Yisrael –except wait a minute, “the People of Israel” aren’t one uniform unit? Hear more from Israeli writer, speaker, and activist Hen Mazzig about the Israeli narratives that aren’t always in the spotlight. We also welcome Healy Shir Slakman, fourth-year rabbinical student at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. To continue the conversation: Hen’s Facebook: @HenMazzig Hen’s Instagram: @HenMazzig Hen’s Twitter: @HenMazzig Healy’s Instagram: @HealyShir Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at drinki...
2021-04-2055 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 22 - Tazria-Metzora with Adrian ShankerTazria-Metzora is a difficult double portion—but it has a lot to teach us about plagues, quarantine, pastoral care, and planning for re-entry. But what happens when this is happening in real life and dealing with healthcare issues in the margins? You get an incredible education from Adrian Shanker, Executive Director of the Bradbury Sullivan LGBTQ Center. We were also thrilled to welcome Rebecca Barnett, current medical student at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine whose interests include LGBTQ+ health and sexual medicine. To continue the conversation: Adrian’s website: www.AdrianShanker.com Adri...
2021-04-1558 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 21 - Shmini with Joe BuchananWhat do you get when you mix Judaism, music, and southern hospitality? An incredible episode with Jewish Americana rock star Joe Buchanan! Hear about opening doors wide for others, creating intentional communities, and finding how and when to best use our voices (and maybe when not to). We also welcome Agnes Barroll, third-year cantorial-student at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (and also one of our favorite friends and definitely Edon’s favorite partner). To continue the conversation: Joe’s website: www.JoeBuchananmusic.com Joe’s Facebook page: @JoeBuchananMusic Find Joe’s new album Back Fro...
2021-04-051h 14Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 20.5 - A Zissen PesachWhy is this episode different from all other episodes? Because we’re bringing you a very special Passover episode! Moving from difficult narrow spaces and modern day racism and hatred to widened perspectives and a hope of liberation, we wish all of you a zissen Pesach—a very sweet Passover! Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at drinkinganddrashing@gmail.com! Find us on social media: Facebook: @DrinkingandDrashing Instagram: @DrinkingandDrashing Don’t forget to subscribe and give us a rating on Apple Podcasts—it’s a great way to help our show g
2021-03-2930 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 20 - Tzav with Michael Marmur#1 Thing You Didn’t Know About Tzav: It’s the portion shared by the coolest B’ Mitzvah humans. Or at least that’s what Rabbi Michael Marmur and cohost Gabe Snyder have in common. Hear more about the fire that sparks within us and how to avoid being burnt out in this incredible parashah read this year on Shabbat ha-Gadol. We also welcome our first Canadian Q&A friend, Josh Satok, Senior Planning Executive for Jewish Life at UJA Federation of New York. Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at drinkinganddrashing@gmail.com! Find us...
2021-03-231h 03Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 19 - Vayakhel-Pekudei with Josh WarshawskyYou may have heard of “two peas in a pod” but you just can’t beat “two Js in a podcast!” Learning with Rabbi Josh Warshawsky, we engage in building community, transforming Torah through music, and how laughter can be one of the best steps to a good week’s rest. We also enthusiastically welcome Jackson Vance Mercer, fifth-year rabbinical student at Hebrew College (and epic musician!). To continue the conversation: Josh: Website: www.JoshWarshawsky.com Facebook: @JoshWarshawskyMusic Jackson: Jackson's Partner's Art: www.BinahDesign.com Website: www.JacksonMercer.com Judaica Inst...
2021-03-0857 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 18 - Ki Tisa with Yaffa EpsteinIf “you may need to be in chavrutah with Torah,” we are so lucky to have such a chavruta (study partner) as Rabbah Yaffa Epstein to walk us through the leadership lessons in Ki Tisa this week as she ties it into hitting the pandemic wall, looking for solutions, and creating community with the best of intentions. We also welcome Tyler Dratch, fifth-year rabbinical student at Hebrew College (and overall mensch!). To continue the conversation: Rabbah Yaffa’s Facebook: @Yaffa.Epstein Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at drinkinganddrashing@gmail.com! Find...
2021-03-0154 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 17 - Tetzaveh with Rabbi Drew KaplanComing into Purim strong with a Torah portion about how to dress correctly and the awesome insights of the hosts of Jewish Drinking. Come laugh with Rabbi Drew Kaplan, learn about how a beit mishteh (a drinking establishment) can be made into a sacred space, and learn a little bit about the ties between Esther and Ecclesiastes! We also enthusiastically welcome third-year rabbinical student Edie Yakutis. To continue the conversation: Jewish Drinking: https://jewishdrinking.com Rabbi Drew’s Email: rabbidrewkaplan@gmail.com Instagram: @RebDrew Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at...
2021-02-2244 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 16 - Terumah with Isaac de CastroIt may have taken an architecture student to help us understand the intricacies of creating the Tabernacle, but Isaac de Castro did so much more than that as he ties it into the design elements needed to create a strong and inclusive community. Looking to hear more from the head of Jewish on Campus and Jewish Identity Crisis? Look no further! We also welcome Elan Karoll, a pro-Israel activist who is by far our most hyped Q&A fan. To continue the conversation: Jewish On Campus: @JewishonCampus Jewish Identity Crisis: https://linktr.ee/JewishIdentityCrisis ...
2021-02-1554 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 15 - Mishpatim with Lisa Fierstein“We will do and we will listen!” Taking action to tell stories is a passion of Lisa Fierstein, a Digital Media Specialist at Anchor, the site that hosts this podcast! Hear top tips for storytelling and podcasting, what it means to take action, and how to get engaged with a greater audience. We also welcome Shawn Medow, sports journalist extraordinaire who taught us a thing or two about interviewing. To continue the conversation: Lisa’s Podcast: Remember People? Twitter: @LisaFierstein Podcast mentioned by Lisa: The Window (Xavier Jernigan) Interested in coming onto the po...
2021-02-0852 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 14 - Yitro with Rabbi Josh FeigelsonInhale, exhale, and get comfortable with yourself—that’s some advice that comes from Rabbi Josh Feigelson, the Executive Director of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. We learn about taking our time, embracing our space, and really entering into deeper conversations. We also welcome Hannah Kearney, the Director of Havayah, The Teen Community at Temple Beth Elohim. To continue the conversation: Institute for Jewish Spirituality: www.JewishSpirituality.org Josh’s Facebook: @Josh.Feigelson Hannah’s Podcast “Text Messages”: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/text-messages/id1510882131 Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at...
2021-02-0159 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 13 - Beshalach with Cantor Danielle Rodnizki, Debra Winter, and Happie HoffmanWhether you’re totally in-tune or a little off-key, this week’s episode focuses on a trio of magical musicians: Cantor Danielle Rodnizki, Debra Winter, and Happie Hoffman. Mixing in original musical interludes, creative covers, and a whole lot of humor, this “Miriam’s Trio” blessed us with a new way of enjoying the beauty of Beshalach. To continue the conversation: Happie Hoffman: Instagram: @Happie.Hoffman Facebook: @HappieHoffmanMusic Temple Israel Memphis: www.TIMemphis.org Cantor Danielle Rodnizki: Instagram: @DRodnizki Facebook: @DRodnizki Westchester Reform Temple: www.wrtemple.org Debra Wi...
2021-01-2557 minDrinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 12 - Bo with Gulienne Rollins-RishonA really incredible episode that combines hard-heartedness, plagues, and a look into the world of being a JOC (Jew of Color). With the wisdom of Gulienne Rollins-Rishon, we learn that there’s a lot more to learn in order to create a more inclusive community. We also welcome fourth-year rabbinical student Becky Jaye whose own brilliance and experiences bring extra life (and humor!) to the episode. To continue the conversation: Gulienne’s Email: gulienne@hyphenatednation.com Becky’s Instagram: @jaye_becky Interested in coming onto the podcast? Email us at drinkinganddrashing@gmail.com! ...
2021-01-191h 07Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a Twist
Drinking and Drashing: Torah with a TwistEp. 00 - Torah With a Twist (An Aperitif)Wait… what even is this podcast? And who ARE you? (Spoiler alert: you may not learn both our names until the first episode!) What’s Drinking? What’s Drashing? And where does the twist come in? We’re whetting your appetite with this small aperitif.
2020-10-2403 min