Shows
Orthodox ConundrumRav Moshe Kahn ZT"L and the Future of Women's Torah Study (146)On January 18th, Rabbi Moshe Kahn passed away at the age of 71. The tributes to him as an ideal teacher, talmid chacham, and rebbe immediately started pouring in across social media. As one of today’s guests asserted, if a woman wanted to engage in serious Talmud study in New York for the past four decades, Rav Kahn was the address. The obvious love and dedication shown towards him by his students from Stern and Drisha made it clear that he was someone whom we all should know more about, and continue to learn from after his passing. ...2023-01-301h 17
Intimate Judaism(47) Unmarried and Dating in Midlife: Navigating Intimacy and SexualityWhether divorced, widowed or never married, seeking a new relationship is complex. While each individual has his or her own unique experiences and perspectives, being unpartnered in midlife usually represents mourning for having loved and lost, or not yet having experienced the joy of partnered intimacy. Added to this for Orthodox Jews, are conflicts around non-marital physical touch. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum in a discussion meant to encourage compassion to self and other, inclusion and hope. Check out https://www.intimatejudaism.com/ for the full podcast archive, show notes, and more. And w...2023-01-1547 minIntimate Judaism(44) Infertility and RelationshipsInfertility and pregnancy loss affects relationships: with self, God, partner, family, friends and community. In part 2 of this two part series, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss the general implications of infertility and pregnancy loss on these relationships and on marital intimacy and sexuality. Listen to Talli and Rabbi Scott discuss this as well as the specific considerations for observant Jewish couples. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more! Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism.2022-10-0346 min
Orthodox ConundrumStruggle, Resilience, and Growth: Talking to Shira Lankin Sheps about Layers (65)Shira Lankin Sheps, the creator and publisher of The Layers Project Magazine, has been conveying the challenges and triumphs of Jewish women for years, and is passionate about creating spaces for stories that need to be told and changing the dialogue around stigmatized topics. Her new book, Layers, accomplishes this in new and exciting ways. Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Shira about the book's goals, what she wouldn't include and why, the reason there isn't a Layers Project for men, and much more.
To purchase Layers, go to https://korenpub.com/products/the-layers-project. Use code LAYERS10 to get 10% off.
...2021-06-0137 min
Intimate Judaism(33) Painful Sex and Vaginismus: It’s Not Your FaultAlthough quite common, painful intercourse is a topic that is rarely talked about. Couples who are unable to experience pain free intercourse, or are unable to consummate their marriage, may not know why this is happening or with whom to consult. Is this problem physical or psychological? How is it diagnosed and treated? In this episode, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss causes and solutions. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more, including an upcoming Q and A. Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism.2021-05-2544 min
Intimate Judaism(32) Lubricants, Vibrators, and Sex Toys for Marital EnhancementModesty, lack of information, and embarrassment are just some factors that inhibit observant couples from using products designed to enhance sexual intimacy. In this episode, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum host Beverly Damelin, who shares her expertise in the field of sexual enhancement products and explains how they can help improve the sexual experience. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more. Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism. 2021-04-2051 min
Orthodox ConundrumIs Orthodoxy Losing Its Moral Compass? With Rabbi Yosef Blau (58)Orthodox Judaism is demanding. We often need to balance competing values - including the fact that our religious inclinations sometimes lead us into questionable moral territory. Too often, we seem make the wrong decisions. Whether with regard to ignoring Netanyahu's corruption trial, celebrating the merger of Israel's Religious Zionist party with racist and misogynistic factions, supporting obvious falsehoods, or speaking with vitriol against political opponents, we sometimes appear to be losing our moral compass. To discuss these and other issues, Scott Kahn spoke with Rabbi Yosef Blau, the Senior Mashgiach Ruchani at Yeshiva University. At the very least, it's time...2021-04-1356 min
Orthodox ConundrumForced Marriage in Orthodoxy: Yes, It Happens (57)Jewish law requires that both the husband and wife consent to marriage or the marriage is not valid. In practice, however, certain Chassidic communities effectively force a couple to get married - a process which, while conforming to the technical details of halacha, does not truly give either spouse much choice in the matter. To discuss this difficult topic and the issues of consent that arise from it, Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum spoke with Eve Sacks and Yehudis Fletcher, co-founders of Nahamu, about the markers of forced marriage, how the shidduch system might lead to forced marriage, and what...2021-03-2252 min
Intimate Judaism((31) Consent and Coercion: What Does Forced Marriage and Obligatory Sex Look Like in the Jewish Community?“Forced marriage" and coercive sex are terms that most believe have no relevance to Judaism. Nevertheless, in communities where marriages are typically arranged by parents and matchmakers, does the couple truly have the freedom to reject the match? And even in modern Orthodox circles, do young men and women sometimes feel pressured to marry when they aren’t sure about the partner, aren’t ready for marriage, or are uncertain of their sexual orientation? How do young people know that they are ready for marriage, and what barriers might impede informed consent? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn in a d...2021-03-2244 min
Orthodox ConundrumAlcohol Abuse and the Orthodox Community: Do We Have a Problem? (Orthodox Conundrum Classic)(In anticipation of Purim, the Orthodox Conundrum is rereleasing this classic episode from last year. The issues raised, unfortunately, apply just as much this year as last.) Purim is, if not the most joyous holiday on the Jewish calendar, then certainly the most "fun." And therein lies the problem: are we teaching our children and students that having fun requires alcohol? Is teenage alcohol abuse a real danger, or is it healthy to let loose given that it's only one day a year? Is worrying about Purim drinking and the effects of kiddush clubs alarmist, or necessary? What should be...2021-02-2428 min
Intimate Judaism(30) Fantasy, Premarital Sex, Kink and More: An Intimate Judaism Q and AIn Episode #30 of Intimate Judaism, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn answer practical sex questions from listeners. Among the subjects covered are: Can a couple experience sexual pleasure when intercourse is medically inadvisable? Why must couples get the first time "over with" on the wedding night? (Or must they?) Is it permissible to masturbate when your wife is a Niddah? May women fantasize? Does enjoying anal play mean I’m gay? ... and much more. Listen and share this special episode, and make sure to subscribe today. Become an Int...2021-02-1655 min
Intimate Judaism(29) Intimacy After Sexual AbuseSexual intimacy provides the opportunity to express love with connection, pleasure, and satisfaction. Yet, for people who have experienced sexual assault, sexual violence, and abuse, intimacy can feel very unsafe. Being on guard, and sometimes checking out and dissociating, is what has allowed abuse victims to survive, and the idea of “relinquishing control and getting lost in the moment” can be terrifying. Rather than associate physical intimacy with pleasure and connection, sex can trigger feelings of shame, disgust, aversion, and pain. Healing from sexual abuse in order to experience emotional and physical intimacy in a healthy way can...2021-01-1248 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Death of Truth: Thoughts on the Fiasco at the Capitol (50)When protestors attacked the United States Capitol based on the president's words, both Jewish law and Jewish values were torn to shreds. Many Orthodox Jews, while not supporting violence, refuse to recognize what has happened as a result of the Trump presidency. With two weeks left before Trump leaves office, Scott Kahn looks at what too many Orthodox Jews have lost as a direct consequence of Trump idolatry. Thanks to all of our new Patreon subscribers, who now have access to bonus JCH podcasts, merch, and more - we appreciate your help, and hope you really enjoy everything that you...2021-01-0720 min
Orthodox Conundrum"I Will Be First On Line to Vaccinate": The New Vaccine With Dr. Sharon Galper Grossman (48)It seems that a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 will be available as soon as next month. Yet many people are nervous about the vaccine, and suggested that they might not be interested in having it administered to them - at least not right away. There are concerns about the speed at which it was developed, the possibility of short and long term side effects that might not yet have been discovered, and more. And these questions persist within the Orthodox community, as much as anywhere else. To discuss the vaccine, both from a public health standpoint and from the perspective...2020-12-0140 min
Orthodox ConundrumWhat to Expect from a Biden Administration with Ambassador Michael Oren (47)It's difficult to deny that the Trump administration was far more pro-Israel than its predecessor; for that reason, many Israelis and others who support Israel are very nervous about what to expect from a Biden administration. Will the gains of the past four years be reversed? Will Biden reenter the Iran deal? Will Israel receive a warm embrace from Washington, or the cold shoulder? To answer these questions, Scott Kahn spoke to Ambassador Michael Oren. Michael Oren served as the Israeli ambassador to the United States from 2009 to 2013, and is a former Member of Knesset and deputy minister in charge...2020-11-1629 min
Intimate Judaism(27) “It Is Not Good for a Man to Be Alone”: Guiding Religious LGBTQ JewsHarav Binyamin Lau, community leader, author, teacher, and former Rabbi of the Ramban Synagogue in Jerusalem, recently introduced a document providing guidance for members of the religious LGBTQ community and their families. This document is a collection of recommendations that, according to Rav Benny, “Do not permit prohibitions or prohibit things that are permitted,” but seek to pave the way to integrate one’s identity with religious life. In this bonus episode of Intimate Judaism, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum speak candidly with Rav Benny about reconciling religious and homosexual or transgender identities, and how to promote greater accept...2020-11-0933 min
Orthodox ConundrumOrthodox Conundrum Editorial: Should Religious Leaders Influence Your Vote?Should rabbis express their opinion regarding the candidate they think is better? Should they articulate "the Torah's viewpoint" when it comes to elections? What dangers could potentially result from doing so? Join Scott Kahn for a special editorial episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, where he tells you whom he voted for (surprise, not Trump), and why he respects those who voted differently... with one specific exception. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your favorite podcast provider. Also visit our Patreon site for bonus episodes, merch, and...2020-11-0217 min
Intimate Judaism(26) What is Tantra and is it Kosher? Enhancing Sexual Intimacy Using Ancient Eastern Philosophy and TechniquesTantric sex originates from ancient Hinduism and revolves around sexual practices that focus on creating a deep, intimate connection. It is a meditative sexual practice that encourages people to focus on the connections between the mind, the body, and the soul. It is intended to lead to fulfilling sexual experiences and greater intimacy. Taoism is a system of traditional beliefs from China. Taoists believe that when a man ejaculates, he loses some aspects of his vitality, or life force, and Taoist practices include learning to delay ejaculation, thereby increasing energy as well as enhancing the sexual experience. While these...2020-10-2854 min
Orthodox ConundrumChristian Zionism and the Missionizing Impulse (46)Many Jews have ambivalent feelings about Christian support for Israel. On the one hand, we’re thrilled to have friends and supporters; but on the other hand, at what cost? Is Christian Zionism a ploy to support Israel and, in the process, convert unsuspecting Jews to Christianity? Is the missionizing impulse a key aspect of Christian Zionism? What, exactly, do Christian Zionists really want? To answer these questions, Scott Kahn spoke with John Enarson, a Christian who comes from an Evangelical background, and who is the Christian Relations Director at Cry For Zion. Also joining the conversation is Rabbi Pesach Wo...2020-10-191h 06
Orthodox ConundrumCovid-19, Conspiracy Theories, Chilul Hashem, and Resetting Orthodoxy (45)How can it be that wide swaths of the religious Jewish world have become enamored with conspiracy theories, do-it-yourself research in matters of life and death, and even violence, when they don't like a government's policies? This is becoming the public perception of Orthodoxy, both within and without the Jewish world - and the sad reality is that this perception is not baseless. What can we do? How can we reset everything that has gone wrong? Join Scott Kahn for a presentation of the problem. We may not have the answers; but allowing these weeds to grow in Orthodoxy's garden...2020-10-0818 min
The Baseball Rabbi PodcastBaseball Rabbi Classic: The Secret Way to Win the World Series and MVP HypocrisyIn this classic offseason wrap-up episode, Pesach Wolicki suggests that World Series winning teams have something in common that belies the common assumption that winning in the playoffs is a roll of the dice. He also gets passionately annoyed about Jacob deGrom's 5th place showing in the MVP race (but not because Christian Yelich was a bad choice), and asks the voters to get their act together. Also, Scott Kahn discusses the Drew Brees of baseball, and an appreciation of Adrian Beltre.2020-09-2934 min
Orthodox ConundrumSex and Guilt (BONUS EPISODE FROM INTIMATE JUDAISM)THIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. Intimacy and sexual experiences are so closely connected with a person’s sense of identity, and so seldom discussed in many religious communities, that they often are the source of tremendous feelings of guilt. When are these feelings misplaced and when do they serve a constructive purpose? How should a religious individual manage his experience of guilt? Is there a way to reframe the experience of shame or guilt in order to create a sense of empowerment? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn as they tackle these and other timely qu...2020-09-2341 min
Intimate Judaism(25) Sex and GuiltIntimacy and sexual experiences are so closely connected with a person's sense of identity, and so seldom discussed in many religious communities, that they often are the source of tremendous feelings of guilt. When are these feelings misplaced and when do they serve a constructive purpose? How should a religious individual manage his experience of guilt? Is there a way to reframe the experience of shame or guilt in order to create a sense of empowerment? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn as they tackle these and other timely questions. Become an Intimate Judaism P...2020-09-2241 min
Orthodox ConundrumToo Early, Too Much, Too Fast: Rabbi Yakov Horowitz on Gemara - Part Two (44)Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, Founding Dean of Yeshiva Darchei Noam of Monsey, is finding solutions to enable students to learn Gemara, and to enjoy it. His talk with Scott Kahn included insights into solutions for helping students enjoy Gemara learning, effective testing and evaluation methodologies, thoughts about when students should begin learning Talmud, whether strong students also require skill building, how Rabbi Horowitz got into teaching, and much more. If you would like to order a copy of Rabbi Scott Kahn's "The Laws of Tekiat Shofar" for just $3.00, write to scott@jewishcoffeehouse.com. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox...2020-09-0742 min
Orthodox Conundrum"What's So Interesting About An Ox?" Rabbi Yakov Horowitz on Gemara - Part One (43)"Everybody moved up. It was transformational for every single kid. Every single kid." Orthodox education emphasizes Talmud. And too often, the main thing that students learn in Talmud class is how much they don't enjoy it. It gets worse: often, they spend years studying and still haven't a clue about what it means, or how to learn it properly. Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, Founding Dean of Yeshiva Darchei Noam of Monsey, recognizes the problem and has set out to rectify it with a new book that attempts to change the way students look at Gemara. In Part One of his conversation...2020-08-3158 min
Orthodox ConundrumDiscrimination and Down Syndrome: Talking with Jodi Samuels (42)"The answer is no and continues to be no." Jodi Samuels says that people used to say, “When we grow up, we want to be like the Samuels”; until 2008, everything about her life seemed perfect. But in February of that year, when her daughter Caila was born with Down Syndrome, her life changed dramatically, and she and her husband almost immediately became activists. And when the local Orthodox school refused to allow Caila to enroll, Jodi's activism made news around the world. Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Jodi Samuels about her fight for inclusion, the successes and difficulties she has...2020-08-1744 min
Orthodox Conundrum(Men Discussing) Orthodox Women's Roles: A Follow-Up and Interview with Chochmat Nashim (41)Several weeks ago, the Orthdox Conundrum released a podcast where two men discussed the Israeli Chief Rabbinate's refusal to allow women to take the exams for rabbinic ordination. The fact that no women were involved in this conversation, as well as the content of the podcast, generated a brand new controversy. Is it offensive for men to discuss women's roles in Judaism without having a woman present? Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Anne Gordon, Rachel Stomel, and Shoshanna Keats-Jaskoll - the leaders of Chochmat Nashim - about this important issue, as well as about semicha, women in leadership roles...2020-08-041h 02
Intimate Judaism(24) “Unorthodox” and Male Sexual Functioning ProblemsThe Netflix series “Unorthodox” inspired two Intimate Judaism ZOOM panels on female and male sexuality respectively. But many listeners had further questions about sexual functioning in men -particularly with regard to "performance anxiety" - and asked us to discuss the topic in more detail. Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn in this bonus episode, as they discuss the factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation, and how religious and social pressure can contribute to these conditions. Support Intimate Judaism by becoming an Intimate Judaism patron on Patreon! Go to https://www...2020-08-0333 min
Orthodox ConundrumAnnexation: Brilliant or Foolhardy? A Conversation with Dr. Sara Yael Hirschhorn (40)Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has had a plan to annex up to 30% of the West Bank... but what that plan is, and whether it will happen altogether, is open to question. What's going on? Is annexation in Israel's best interests? What could go right and what could go wrong? And how might it affect American Jewish support for Israel? Join Scott Kahn as he discusses these and other questions with Dr. Sara Yael Hirschhorn of Northwestern University in Chicago. Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com// for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your...2020-07-2228 min
Orthodox ConundrumOrthodox Women as Spiritual Leaders: Yes or No? A Conversation with Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander (39)Israel's Attorney General recently declared that women should be allowed to sit for the same rabbinical exams as men, albeit not in order to acquire the title "Rabbi." The Chief Rabbinate, however, threatened to stop all examinations if this plan were implemented. Is the Chief Rabbinate justified? Is there a problem with women being rabbis in Orthodoxy? If so, is there an equivalent position or title which would be acceptable? And are the current steps leading down a slippery slope where traditional gender roles will be undermined? To answer these questions, Scott Kahn spoke with Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander, the...2020-07-1636 min
Orthodox ConundrumBitul Torah and Creativity: The Challenges and Opportunities of Being a Religious Artist (38)Orthodox Judaism often has a fraught relationship with the arts, characterized by both tension and fascination. Some Torah sources emphasize the great spiritual potential in music and the visual arts, while others consider art a waste of time - or worse. In this live episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn is joined by Franciska Goldschmidt Kosman and a panel of experts - Abie Rotenberg, Simcha Leiner, Moshe Braun, and Chaim Aizenshtat - to discuss Judaism and the arts. They address the way to relate to creative endeavors, how an artist can remain true to both Halacha and his artistic...2020-07-011h 03
Orthodox ConundrumArrested by the Waqf... For Saying The Temple Mount Once Had a Temple (37)Shaina Be Hirsch was visiting the Temple Mount and videoing it on Facebook Live, when she was accosted by a security guard who demanded that she retract her factual claim that there was a Temple on the site before there was a mosque there. When she refused, and continued to insist on factual accuracy, she was literally arrested by the Waqf. Join Scott Kahn for a disturbing interview with Shaina as she recounts her story, and discusses what has been done and what further needs to be done to ensure that history itself is no longer denied. You can read...2020-06-1719 min
Intimate Judaism(23) Masculinity, Male Sexuality, & Judaism: Navigating Love, Lust, & IntimacyMen are sexually assertive, they constantly think about and want sex, and their masculinity is determined by the frequency of their sexual conquests and their performance. This stereotype is perpetuated by the media in Western culture. Jewish sources, on the other hand, acknowledge the power of the male sexual drive, but require men to direct this drive exclusively towards marital relations. The expectation to live up to contemporary societal expectations of masculinity, to struggle with forbidden sexual arousal, yet be commanded when appropriate to perform sexually with one’s wife, may contribute to feelings of confusion, frustration, and anxiety....2020-06-0956 min
Orthodox ConundrumHow DARE You Ask For Payment! (36)Professionals expect to be paid, and rightly so. Why, then, are so many educators and rabbis in the Jewish world expected to teach, lecture, and officiate for free - and are often viewed as hypocrites when they ask for payment? In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn speaks with veteran educator Sarah Rudolph, a teacher living in Cleveland whose frustration about this very issue inspired her to write a well-received article in The Forward, "The Injustice of Asking Jewish Educators to Do Unpaid Work." Check out jewishcoffeehouse.com/ for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember...2020-05-1430 min
Intimate Judaism(22) “Just Do What He Tells You to Do”: Take-Home Messages from the Unorthodox Panel (BONUS EPISODE)Intimate Judaism's recent ZOOM live panel (https://www.intimatejudaism.com/unorthodox-intimacy-and-authenticity-how-accurate-is-the-netflix-series-portrayal-of-chasidic-intimacy-episode-21/) aroused a great deal of interest and discussion. Many of our listeners wrote in describing their experiences, and in this bonus episode, Brooklyn trauma therapist Chaya Feuerman relates how the messages she received from her own kallah teacher shaped her negative beliefs about sexuality. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum as they discuss premarital sexual education, wedding night anxiety, what to do about painful sex, and the tension between maintaining cultural sensitivity while promoting sexual health and autonomy.2020-05-0429 min
Intimate Judaism(21) Unorthodox, Intimacy, and Authenticity: How Accurate is the Netflix Series' Portrayal of Chasidic Intimacy?The Netflix series “Unorthodox” portrays the journey of Esty, a young Satmar Chasidic woman who ultimately leaves her marriage and her community to live a secular life in Berlin. Her marital life with her husband, Yanky, and in particular, their dysfunctional sexual relationship, is fraught with conflict and unhealthy intervention of others. Moreover, Esty is seen as having little autonomy over her body or entitlement to withhold sexual consent. We invited a panel of experts to discuss some of the topics raised by this series, including sexual autonomy and agency vs. obligation, vaginismus and unconsummated marriage and the stat...2020-04-2957 min
Intimate Judaism(20) Love (and Sex) in the Time of CoronaThe Coronavirus has affected how we live, how we work, how we congregate and how we experience touch and intimacy. The world at large has had to renegotiate the common norms of social intimacy with distancing measures that are increasing daily. Meanwhile, couples are faced with a new reality: confinement at home, the need to keep children occupied and help them cope with stress and uncertainty, as well as provide comfort and reassurance to one another. How do couples navigate their intimate relationships during this time? Midrashic sources point to several times in history where...2020-03-2342 min
Intimate Judaism(19) Porn, Fantasy, and Compulsive Sexual Behavior: How Much is Too Much?Our sources teach us that lusting after our hearts is prohibited. Yet sexual curiosity, fantasy, and thinking about sex are part of the normative developmental process. Therefore, how do we determine how much is too much and what thoughts and behaviors are problematic? Is what may be “bad for your neshama” like viewing porn, necessarily bad for your mental health, and might the battle to guard one’s eyes and control one’s thoughts actually backfire, leading to obsessional thinking and compulsive behaviors? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn as they discuss sex addiction, pornography, and compulsive sexual b...2020-03-0248 min
Orthodox ConundrumAlcohol Abuse and the Orthodox Community: Do We Have a Problem? (33)Purim is, if not the most joyous holiday on the Jewish calendar, then certainly the most "fun." And therein lies the problem: are we teaching our children and students that having fun requires alcohol? Is teenage alcohol abuse a real danger, or is it healthy to let loose given that it's only one day a year? Is worrying about Purim drinking and the effects of kiddush clubs alarmist, or necessary? What should be done if you suspect that your kid has a problem, and how is "problem" even defined? Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Dr. Zev Ganz in this...2020-02-2528 min
Orthodox ConundrumIs Democracy the Enemy of Religious Zionism? A Conversaton with Daniel Goldman (31)In our previous episode, we discussed the problem of racism within the Religious Zionist community. Left unanswered, however, was the question of why some Religious Zionist communities tend to move in that direction. What is it about Religious Zionist philosophy which can engender racist attitudes? Is it as big a problem as it appears? And what can be done to fight it? Join Scott Kahn and his special guest, Daniel Goldman, for a frank discussion about these and other issues. Join our team, support this podcast, and get great extra stuff! Go to www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse to learn more...2020-01-2940 min
Intimate Judaism(18) Sex Is Not Something You 'Have'“Sex is not something you ‘have’ but rather an expression of an intimate and erotic energy that a couple mutually shares.” This quote, from the recently released book, I Am For My Beloved: A Guide to Enhanced Intimacy for Married Couples by co-authors Talli Rosenbaum and David Ribner, reflects the theme that a passionate marriage is about cultivating a loving, emotionally intimate relationship. In this episode of Intimate Judaism, Rabbi Scott Kahn interviews co-host Talli Rosenbaum, and her co-author Dr. David Ribner about the book, which helps couples improve both their emotional and physical intimate lives. J...2020-01-2742 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Double Betrayal: An Interview with Genendy (28)Sexual abuse is horrific, and can ruin a person's life. When the abusers are community leaders - and the community has a vested interest in making sure that they remain leaders in good standing - there's a double betrayal. Scott Kahn asks Genendy to relate her own story of sexual abuse, along with her message of healing. Genendy was one of subjects of Dalit Kimor's documentary, Unkept Secrets, and is the author of a memoir, The Price of Truth. Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com2019-12-3131 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(57) Fresh Evidence in the Houston Astros Cheating Scandal - a Baseball Rabbi ExclusiveThe Houston Astros cheating scandal has been discussed and dissected, but the Baseball Rabbi has new statistical evidence that no one else has revealed. Join Pesach Wolicki as he crunches some numbers that produce something akin to a smoking gun. Plus: more on the Astros' historical legacy and institutional culture, and Scott Kahn (shockingly) explains why the Patriots' Spygate scandal was nothing compared to the Astros' malfeasance.2019-12-0349 min
Intimate Judaism(15) Teshuva as a Guide to Repairing our Intimate Relationships (BONUS EPISODE)During the month of Tishri, we engage in a process of Tshuva; self-reflection and repentance. Through prayer, we repair our relationships and connect with God, with ourselves, and with those we may have hurt. In this mini episode, join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum as they discuss how the basic elements of the tshuva process can serve as a model for healing and repairing our relationships with ourselves and the significant others in our lives.2019-10-0226 min
Orthodox ConundrumDo Orthodox Communities Marginalize Singles? A Conversation with Rabbi Yuter (25)Orthodox Judaism prides itself on its emphasis on strong family life; but does that emphasis come at the expense of unmarried individuals in our communities? What sorts of challenges do singles experience, and is there more that we can do to create more a more inclusive Orthodoxy? Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Rabbi Josh Yuter about this important and pressing issue. (This episode continues a discussion which began on the Intimate Judaism podcast; check it out at https://www.intimatejudaism.com/singles-sex-and-orthodoxy-episode-14/) Music: "Happy Rock" by Bensound.com2019-09-2545 min
Intimate Judaism(14) Singles, Sex, and Orthodoxy“It’s not good for man to be alone.” Living a traditional Jewish life implies marriage and raising a family. Sexual intimacy is highly valued, but only within the framework of a marital bond. However, whether due to the “shidduch crisis," rising divorce rates, or other circumstances, our communities include many individuals who haven’t married, or are widowed or divorced. What are the experiences of singles in attempting to navigate a normal, healthy drive for connection and intimacy with the halachic and communal expectations of sexual abstinence? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn in a frank disc...2019-09-1853 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(30) Stick a Fork in the WPA-Poor Red Sox; They're Done.There's always next year, right? As the Red Sox join the Orioles around the bottom of the AL East, Pesach Wolicki uses Win Probability Added (WPA) to argue that something is seriously messed up with Boston's starting pitching... but the Reds, with an almost identical record, might start to surprise a lot of people despite last year's pitching disasters. Meanwhile, Scott Kahn investigates the (possibly) tragic career of Dick Allen, who, in a fairer world, might have been Willie Mays.2019-04-3039 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(28) Sustaining the Success of the Mets, and a New Look at Baseball's Aging CurveIt's a well-known truism by now that baseball players are getting younger, and the Baseball Rabbi certainly agrees... kind of. According to Pesach Wolicki, baseball's aging curve is a little more complicated than the standard narrative would have you believe, and he and Scott Kahn try to identify the trends, and determine why there's an apparent divergence between hitters and pitchers. All of this, of course, in the service of asserting that the New York Mets are built to last.2019-04-1633 min
Intimate Judaism(12) Monogamy and Exclusivity: Defining, Preventing and Dealing with BetrayalSexual exclusivity is a core value of Jewish marriage. Extramarital sexual contact – infidelity – represents not only a breach of Jewish law, but also a rupture of the couple’s loyalty and trust. While sexual intercourse with another person is almost universally considered adultrous behavior, how do couples define what they consider to be a betrayal? Is texting, having lunch with a member of the opposite sex, or flirting considered infidelity? And if lines are crossed, how can the couple repair their relationship? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn for a serious look at the personal, psychological, halachic, and hashka...2019-04-1042 min
Orthodox ConundrumTrump, Otzmah, and Young Israel: A Conversation with Rabbi Yechezkel Moskowitz (24)“President Trump is the most benevolent leader the Jewish people have ever known in their 2,000 years in their Diaspora, believe me.” So said Rabbi Yechezkel Moskowitz, chairman of the recent National Council of Young Israel dinner. Should an Orthodox synagogue organization so openly genuflect before President Trump? Does this express proper gratitude for what the president has done for Israel, or does it celebrate a person whose character represents the antithesis of Torah values? Should the Young Israel involve itself in controversial political decisions in Israel, which it did when it supported Netanyahu's brokering of a merger of the Bayit Yehu...2019-04-0744 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(26) Goodbye to Utley, Mauer, and Ichiro, and Baseball is Meaningless (and that's not a bad thing)With Opening Day behind us, the Baseball Rabbi says farewell to three potential Hall of Famers, and reviews their exceptional (and interesting) careers. Pesach Wolicki also reads a short selection from Bill James on the meaninglessness of baseball, and explains why this parodoxically is the secret source of its greatness. Scott Kahn anticipates whopper seasons from Aaron Nola and Walker Buehler. But above all, the Baseball Rabbi introduces the Ryan Howard Award! Who do you nominate as the next winner?2019-04-0236 min
Intimate Judaism(11) Homosexuality, Asexuality, and More: Responding to Listener QuestionsTalli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn address your questions in this special Q&A episode of Intimate Judaism. Among the issues they deal with are homosexuality and Orthodoxy, Halacha's attitude toward sterilization via tubal ligation or vasectomy, whether we should encourage our children to talk to kids of the opposite gender, and more.2019-03-1341 min
Orthodox ConundrumDo Our Schools Teach Too Much Gemara? (23)Talmud is the lifeblood of Jewish education; it is the centerpiece, the central pillar - and with good reason. But with so many students not enjoying or understanding Talmud, is it possible that we're doing something wrong? Is it possible that our educational system is predicated upon a wrong assumption? How can we inspire more students, without losing that which makes Jewish education unique? Join Scott Kahn as he begins the process of evaluating our educational system, on this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum. Please give to the Gift of Life's new campaign to save lives! Go to https://www...2019-02-2028 min
Intimate JudaismWhen” Family Purity” Strains Your Marriage (Episode 10)Many people are taught that following Taharat HaMishpacha - the laws of family purity - keeps a marriage fresh, and adds passion to a couple's sexual relationship. Often, this is true, but many times, it's not. Some couples find that Taharat HaMishpacha adds a tremendous strain to their relationship. Are there solutions within Halacha? What should a couple in this situation do? Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn speak with Yoatzot Halacha Nechama Goldman Barash and Atara Eis to discover how they confront these issues, and whether couples can find reasonable solutions that allow them to follow Jewish law...2019-02-1357 min
Orthodox ConundrumA Soccer Ball, an Eye Injury, and a Second Yom Kippur (22)The Orthodox Conundrum has been on unintentional hiatus for a couple of months... but Scott Kahn has a good excuse. He explains everything through a story about a soccer ball hitting his son in his left eye, and the heady events - physical and spiritual - that proceeded as a result of a simple schoolyard game of monkey in the middle. Plus: a dvar Torah about Naaseh v'Nishma, and the unity of Israel. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes - just go to itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ortho…rum/id1289716034, click on "View in iTunes," and you're ready to...2019-01-3127 min
Intimate Judaism(9) "My Spouse Wants Sex Less Often Than I Do!" - What Does Halacha Say?Are sexual relations in Jewish marriage mandatory? Can either partner demand sexual relations at any time? How do we reconcile that concept with the understanding that autonomy and mutual consent are core values of sexual and marital health? Stay tuned for this episode of Intimate Judaism when Talli Y. Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn discuss the sources.2019-01-0748 min
Intimate Judaism(8) Sex Within Marriage: What's Allowed and What's Not?Judaism’s view of sex within marriage- is it really ruled by do’s and dont’s or does anything go? What do the sources actually say? Join Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn for a frank and enlightening discussion. You may be surprised at what you will learn.2018-12-0545 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(17) The Secret Way to Win the World Series and MVP Hypocrisy - Season Wrap-up Part 1In this special offseason wrap-up episode, Pesach Wolicki suggests that World Series winning teams have something in common that belies the common assumption that winning in the playoffs is a roll of the dice. He also gets passionately annoyed about Jacob deGrom's 5th place showing in the MVP race (but not because Christian Yelich was a bad choice), and asks the voters to get their act together. Also, Scott Kahn discusses the Drew Brees of baseball, and an appreciation of Adrian Beltre.2018-11-2233 min
Orthodox ConundrumSexual Abuse and the Orthodox World: A Conversation with Shana Aaronson (21)Sexual abuse is a terrible problem in all communities, and unfortunately, the Orthodox world is no exception. Is the Orthodox community better or worse than others? Have things improved over the past few years as awareness has increased - or have things gotten even worse? And is there reason to hope for the future? Join Scott Kahn as he interviews Shana Aaronson, the COO of Jewish Community Watch (http://www.jewishcommunitywatch.org/) about a problem that we dare not ignore. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes - just go to itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ortho…rum/id1289716034, click on...2018-11-2140 min
Intimate Judaism(7) Jewish #MeToo: Does Adherence to Jewish Law Provide Safety from Sexual Assault?In his recent analysis of the “#MeToo earthquake,” Rabbi Avi Shafran, Agudath Israel of America’s director of public affairs, bemoans the “supposedly enlightened, progressive, post-patriarchal society, with its proud claim to value and respect women,” and questions how we can expect men to respect women who dress and behave immodestly. In contrast, he asserts that sexual abuse is “relatively rare” in a society guided by Jewish law, where modesty and strict boundaries on gender interaction provide a carefully controlled environment, and women are valued and respected rather than objectified. In this episode of Intimate Judaism, Talli Rosenbaum and R...2018-11-0641 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(16) Dave Roberts and the Art of Game MismanagementThe Los Angeles Dodgers are talented enough that they won the NL Pennant - despite some serious missteps by Dave Roberts. Pesach Wolicki argues that while major parts of managing are hidden from the public, making it impossible for an outside observer to conclusively judge how the manager is doing, we nonetheless can evaluate his in-game tactics and strategy, where Dave Roberts has a lot to learn from Genius Craig Counsell. Pesach and Scott Kahn also discuss the unusual Brewers roster, the fallacy of judging based solely upon outcomes, and the best autographs in their possession (unfortunately, not Tim...2018-10-2329 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Ends, The Means, and Religious Political Parties (20)In our last episode, we asked if the ends justify the means in Torah Judaism; the answer, we stated, must be a resounding NO. Nevertheless, in the realm of politics in Israel, religious political parties often act as though any means - including the violation of Halacha - is acceptable in the service of reaching the parties' goals. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn looks at religious political parties in general, and why he feels that they are doing a disservice to Torah Judaism. Even more to the point, Scott argues that religious political parties are anti-Torah...2018-10-1829 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(15) The Ballad of Willie Bloomquist: The Greatest Outlier Season, Overrated Players, and The Yankees' Andujar DilemmaMiguel Andujar might be the league's best rookie - and the Baseball Rabbi suggests trading him ASAP. Why do the Yankees have an Andujar dilemma, and what does that tell us about the changes in MLB over the past ten years? Meanwhile, Rico Petrocelli - or somebody - had the strangest career in baseball history by one very specific yardstick; Pesach Wolicki and Scott Kahn discuss what it is. And in what way is Willie Bloomquist a key component of this conversation? Better listen to find out.2018-10-1731 min
Intimate Judaism(6) The Wedding Night: Negotiating the Transition from Abstinence to Full Sexual IntercourseMany couples await the wedding night with anticipation and excitement, as they are finally permitted to express their desire for one another and to consummate their relationship. For some couples, however, the wedding night, and sometimes the weeks and months thereafter, can be a source of anxiety and distress, and represents an obligation they struggle to “perform successfully.” How do couples negotiate the transition from abstinence to full sexual intercourse? What happens when one partner is not ready or is hesitant, anxious or afraid? Is wedding night sex an Halachic obligation and if so, how can it be ful...2018-10-0845 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(14) Is Catching Foul Tips a Skill? Max Scherzer Thinks SoAfter striking out batter number 300, Max Scherzer gave a shout-out to Matt Wieters for being the best at catching foul tips... but Scherzer provided no evidence for his claim. Is he right? Can we measure it? More to the point, does it even matter? The Baseball Rabbi put stat guru Moshe Schorr on the case (because when Scherzer talks, it's worth paying close attention). Plus: more about pitching in and out of the zone, and the most memorable games we've ever watched. (Also, Pesach Wolicki disses Fenway based on a game he and Scott Kahn attended in 1998.)2018-10-0829 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(13) Was Oakland Actually Mediocre, Snell for Cy and deGrom for MVP (Maybe), and the Villain of '78The Oakland A's surprised everyone by winning 97 games with a relatively miniscule payroll, so is this Moneyball 2.0 - or a mirage? That leads Pesach Wolicki to a further discussion about the AL Central's role in making decent, mediocre, and even bad teams look like world beaters (with one obvious exception). The Baseball Rabbi also talks end of season awards, and Scott Kahn takes a final look back at the unsung villain of game 163 in 1978 - and no, it's not Mike Torrez.2018-10-0436 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(12) The Superstar Rookie Old ManIs Aaron Judge's career going to be like Ryan Howard's or Al Bumbry's? The Baseball Rabbi suggests that Yankee fans better hope for the latter - though history shows that such a positive outcome is very unlikely. Inspired by Joey Wendle, Pesach Wolicki analyzes old rookies, and what history shows about the length of their careers. He also answers Scott Kahn's question about why he likes to trash Lou Brock, who, he claims, might be an even less deserving Hall of Famer than ol' 6-4-3 Jim Rice.2018-09-2030 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(11) How Important Are Stolen Bases, Anyway?When Steve Phillips argued on MLB Radio that the Chicago Cubs don't run enough, the Baseball Rabbi, Pesach Wolicki, picked up the gauntlet and rose to the challenge. Through analysis of the Cubs' current baserunning prowess, Pesach analyzes whether Phillips is right or wrong, and then moves on to a general analysis of the overall value of stolen bases. Plus: The American League Rookie of the Year debate, Scott Kahn offers his Rosh Hashana baseball memories, and why writer Roger Kahn should get a new editor.2018-09-1332 min
Intimate Judaism(5) Bonus Episode - Shomer Negiah: The Listeners Strike BackIntimate Judaism's most recent episode, ‘Shomer Negiah: Premarital Sexual Activity and Jewish Values," generated plenty of comments, discussion, and disagreement. In this bonus episode, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn address listener comments, and expand on the differences between guilt and shame, whether a person "has to" consult a rabbi before making a Halachic decision, the consequences of non-Halachic sexual activity and more.2018-09-1224 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Ends, The Means, and Rabbi Yosef Mizrachi (18)Do the ends justify the means? This old question has been debated endlessly, but within Torah Judaism, the answer must be a resounding NO. Nevertheless, too often in the Torah community, the ends are treated as so important that violations of some of the most serious prohibitions in the Torah are countenanced in the context of achieving a seemingly noble goal. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn discusses this issue in the context of the well-known kiruv rabbi, Yosef Mizrachi, and his seemingly questionable methodology. He also carefully distinguishes between elements of Mizrachi's approach with which he...2018-09-0628 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(10) Gehrig Versus Pujols: Are Today's Players Actually Better? A New Way to Answer an Old QuestionIt's an old parlor game: compare Babe Ruth to Barry Bonds, or Lou Gehrig to Albert Pujols. We can calculate that the older players were generally greater than their peers in a way that modern greats are not; but the Baseball Rabbi, Pesach Wolicki, offers a new way of viewing the entire question which demonstrates that today's players are the best in the history of the game. (Even Johnny Unitas and Julius Erving come up in this discussion...) In addition, Pesach and Scott Kahn analyze the unfair tragedy of the Twins, and derive lessons in team building from, of...2018-09-0535 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(9) Cole Hamels, Target Field, More Baltimore Badness, and a Bizarre Max Scherzer StatAt the trade deadline, the Baseball Rabbi, Pesach Wolicki made a double prediction about Cole Hamels's future on the Cubs, but naturally he's not gloating or anything. On this week's episode, he and Scott Kahn modestly investigate whether Pesach was right or wrong, discuss one of baseball's most beautiful ballparks (though it's no Metrodome), analyze further the historically terrible Baltimore Orioles - are they good at ANYTHING? - and discover a strange but true way of analyzing Max Scherzer's chance to win a postseason award.2018-08-3032 min
Intimate Judaism(4) Shomer Negiah: Navigating Premarital Sexual Activity and Jewish Law and ValuesAs human beings, we are wired for connection, and the desire for intimate touch is a natural instinct. However, Jewish Law is clear that premarital sexual activity, even when it doesn't involve sexual intercourse, is forbidden. How do we manage that tension? Do we acknowledge that the halachot of refraining from touching the opposite gender are not universally observed, and discuss openly which prohibitions are Torah law and which are Rabbinic enactments so that individuals can choose to "lessen" the prohibition? Will that be understood as tacit sanctioning of premarital touching? How do we impart our values without creating fe...2018-08-2736 min
The Baseball Rabbi Podcast(8) The Genius of Yankee Pitching Philosophy (No, This is Not Sarcasm)It all started with a casual observation: the New York Yankees rank first in fastball velocity, and last in fastball usage. That sounds like the team doesn't know what it's doing, but the Baseball Rabbi, Pesach Wolicki, jumped into the rabbit hole to find out what's really going on - and the numbers kept getting curiouser and curiouser. To Scott Kahn's everlasting regret, Pesach discovered that the Yankees are expanding the strike zone in a manner as brilliant as it is unexpected. Join us as we uncover the Yankees' organizational pitching philosophy, and discover that they are at the...2018-08-2325 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Chief Rabbinate: Fix It or Ditch It? An Interview with Rabbi Seth Farber (17)The Israeli Chief Rabbinate has become a lightning rod for criticism - and in many cases, quite deservedly so. The institution is broken; should we try to fix it, or junk it altogether? Rabbi Seth Farber, the founder of ITIM, believes that it can be a force for good - but only if it changes its narrow and, in his opinion, incorrect understanding of Halacha and its place in the State of Israel. In this episode of The Orthodox Conundrum Podcast, Scott Kahn discusses these and other issues with Rabbi Farber, including the op-ed he wrote for the New York...2018-08-2234 min
The Baseball Rabbi PodcastThe Wild Card Game: Genius Innovation or the Root of All Evil?The New York Yankees might win 100 games in 2018, but are likely to get into the playoffs only if they win a sudden death Wild Card Game. The Cleveland Indians almost certainly will win fewer than 100 games, and they're virtually a lock for a playoff spot. Is this as unfair as it sounds? Join Baseball Rabbi Pesach Wolicki and Scott Kahn for a discussion about the MLB playoff system - both in 2018 and throughout history - in order to answer the pressing question, once and for all, of whether Yankee fans have a serious argument, or are just a bunch...2018-08-1533 min
Orthodox ConundrumKilling Our Kids For Convenience (16)Too often, we ignore the crucial directives implied by the concept of Pikuach Nefesh - saving a life - and allow ourselves to be reckless on the roads through speeding, texting while driving, not using seat belts, and more. When will we realize that safe driving is not only smart, but also an absolute halachic requirement? Join Scott Kahn for a short but powerful episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, where he insists that Orthodox Jews, based on their own principles, act as exemplars of road safety. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes! Just go to itunes.apple.com/us...2018-08-0914 min
The Baseball Rabbi PodcastSuperteams: Does Baseball Have a Parity Problem?For the second straight year, it looks as though three Major League teams may win 100 games - something that has happened in consecutive years only once before. The conventional wisdom is that we're in an era of superteams, and that this might be a long-term problem for baseball. But does baseball actually have a parity problem? Pesach Wolicki and Scott Kahn compare MLB with the other major North American professional sports leagues to see which has the most parity, and to determine once and for all if there's a need to address this pressing issue - or whether things...2018-08-0939 min
The Baseball Rabbi PodcastThe Unfathomable Greatness of Andrelton Simmons at the PlateWhen you think of Andrelton Simmons, you probably think of the phenomenal fielder with the so-so bat. But in 2018, Simmons is doing something amazing at the plate which has, quite simply, never been done before. Join the Baseball Rabbi, Pesach Wolicki, and his hearty sidekick Scott Kahn, for a discussion of why Andrelton Simmons is having - in one statistic - the greatest season in the history of baseball. Also: three short follow-ups on the Orioles' badness, the Manny Machado trade, and why the use of the shift doesn't have anything to do with the league's unusually low batting...2018-07-2632 min
Orthodox Conundrum"Our Orthodox Community is Very Often Governed by Shame" - An Interview with Shira Lankin Sheps (15)We in the Orthodox community are justifiably proud of our emphasis on community. Like all good things, however, this, too, has a dark side: the possibility of people feeling excluded from what often presents itself, or at least sometimes appears, as a community that is insulated from many problems. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn talks to Shira Lankin Sheps, who is giving voice to women whose problems are often swept under the rug. Through The Layers Project, Shira is allowing issues that some people treat as taboo and a source of shame - such as special...2018-07-2530 min
Intimate Judaism(3) Raising Sexually Healthy Children (Part 2)Preparing our children so that they grow up to be healthy, independent, and happy adults requires giving them the right messages at all stages of their development. What is the connection between growing up in a safe and secure environment, and the ability to experience pleasure in the context of marital intimacy? Why is it necessary to avoid judging our children, even when we disagree with their decisions? What do we mean when we try to teach them about intimacy? And how can our relationship with G-d serve as a model for intimacy with a spouse? Join Talli Rosenbaum...2018-07-2430 min
Intimate Judaism(2) Raising Sexually Healthy Children (Part 1)Almost all parents try to raise their children in a manner that both reflects the parents' moral values, and gives children the necessary tools so that they lead fulfilling and emotionally healthy lives. This is certainly true in the Halachic community, which must balance the messages children hear from the ourside world with the Torah values they are taught at home and in school. How can we achieve this balance so that our kids learn to respect the Halachic attitudes toward sex, while also growing into sexually healthy adults? Is there a way to use media in order to...2018-07-2428 min
Intimate Judaism(1) Masturbation, Sexual Health, & Halacha: Is There A Conflict?Halachic sources state that male masturbation is unequivocally prohibited under Jewish law. This prohibition, however, often creates serious conflict and guilt in the religious and private lives of young Orthodox men, with consequences ranging from experiencing feelings of hypocrisy, to dropping out of Orthodoxy altogether, to skewing their perceptions of what marriage is supposed to be. In this episode of Intimate Judaism, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss this important topic, and attempt to outline how parents, teachers, and children should navigate the dual tracks of strengthening a commitment to Halacha, while enabling healthy sexual growth and attitudes.2018-07-2429 min
Orthodox ConundrumRacism and Xenophobia in the Orthodox Community: A conversation with Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt (14)Is much of the Orthodox community racist? What are the reasons that some members of our community express racist attitudes, use racist language, and demonstrate a lack of respect for people outside the Jewish community who are not white? Join Scott Kahn as he interviews journalist Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt to discuss how prevalent this problem is, how we got here, and what can be done to change things in the future. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes! Just go to itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ortho…rum/id1289716034, click on "View in iTunes," and you're ready to go. Music: Happy Ro...2018-07-1126 min
Orthodox ConundrumTeaching Outside the Box - Or Throwing Away the Box Altogether (13)What should you do when you have a unique educational approach that isn't fully appreciated by normal institutions? If you're Rabbi Akiva Weisinger - creator of the 19,000-member strong Facebook group God Save Us From Your Opinion - you simply create a new institution for you and other like-minded individuals. Join Scott Kahn for a discussion with Akiva about why Akiva dismisses lables, how far he's willing to go outside the Orthodox box when discovering exciting new educators, what problems in the educational world he's trying to address, and his long term hopes for his various online educational ventures. Please...2018-06-2727 min
Orthodox ConundrumDo Orthodox Men Respect Women? - Part 2 (Episode 11)Do Orthodox Jews respect women? That question from our last episode engendered a lot of discussion, and Scott Kahn continues the conversation by answering and discussing some of the many responses and criticisms he received in response to the podcast. Join the conversation - you won't want to miss it. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes! Just go to itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ortho…rum/id1289716034, click on "View in iTunes," and you're ready to go. Music: Happy Rock by bensound.com2018-06-1335 min
Orthodox ConundrumDo Orthodox Men Respect Women?(10)It is often claimed that despite their being relegated to the other side of the mechitza, women are shown tremendous respect within Orthodox Judaism. That may be true, but do Orthodox JEWS show this same respect that they claim is warranted by Jewish law? Join Scott Kahn for an honest talk about women on the other side of the mechitza, and the way that - too often - they are made to feel like second class citizens even in the space reserved for them. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes! Just go to https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast...2018-06-0618 min
The Jewish Prayer PodcastThe Living Divine: Pesach Sheni and Lag BaOmerJoin Rabbi Scott Kahn for a short but meaningful exploration of the link between Pesach Sheni, Lag BaOmer, and Jewish mysticism.2018-05-0303 min
The Jewish Prayer PodcastA Short Meditation on Ha Lachma AnyaThe Maggid section of the Seder - that is, the story of the Exodus - begins with a seemingly disingenuous invitation, addressed to anyone who is needy, to join the Seder. Why is it there? What is its purpose? Rabbi Scott Kahn investigates this question, and in the process uncovers an important message about the Divine Presence, the secret of Jewish history, and the necessity of unconditional love for every member of the Jewish people.2018-03-2010 min
Orthodox ConundrumMasturbation, Sexual Health, & Halacha: Is There A Conflict? A Conversation with Talli Rosenbaum (9)THIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. Halachic sources state that male masturbation is unequivocally prohibited under Jewish law. This prohibition, however, often creates serious conflict and guilt in the religious and private lives of young Orthodox men, with consequences ranging from experiencing feelings of hypocrisy, to dropping out of Orthodoxy altogether, to skewing their perceptions of what marriage is supposed to be. In this episode of The Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn speaks with therapist Talli Rosenbaum about this important topic, and how parents, teachers, and children should navigate the dual tracks of strengthening a commitment to Halacha...2018-03-1830 min
Orthodox ConundrumJewish Law as Rebellion: An Interview with Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo (Episode 8)Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo is at the cutting edge of Orthodox Jewish thought. He does not shy away from diagnosing problems, breaking barriers, and offering novel - and perhaps disturbing - ways of looking at the tradition, while insisting upon genuine fealty to Jewish law and practice. What is lacking in the Orthodox community's religious practice? How does he suggest addresing these issues? When is halachic change warranted, should these changes come from within the tradition or from without, and how do his solutions differ from those of Open Orthodoxy and the Conservative movement? Should Judaism have dogmas? In what...2018-02-1934 min
Orthodox ConundrumJewish Law as Rebellion: An Interview with Rabbi Nathan Lopes CardozoRabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo is at the cutting edge of Orthodox Jewish thought. He does not shy away from diagnosing problems, breaking barriers, and offering novel - and perhaps disturbing - ways of looking at the tradition, while insisting upon genuine fealty to Jewish law and practice. What is lacking in the Orthodox community's religious practice? How does he suggest addresing these issues? When is halachic change warranted, should these changes come from within the tradition or from without, and how do his solutions differ from those of Open Orthodoxy and the Conservative movement? Should Judaism have dogmas? In what...2018-02-1934 min
Orthodox ConundrumCensorship and Forgery in the Orthodox World: A Conversation with Professor Marc Shapiro (Episode 7)One of the worst-kept secrets of the right-wing Orthodox world is that texts are sometimes censored to make sure that they adhere with the worldview espoused within that culture. This includes removing the words of some of the greatest rabbinic figures of all time, such as Rashi and the Rashbam, as well as literally forging the statements of important rabbis. Is this practice limited to publishers in the yeshiva world, or do other streams of Judaism do it, as well? How do those who engage in such practices justify it, to themselves and to others? Is there a basis for...2018-01-1429 min
Orthodox ConundrumHalachot of Sexuality, Wasting Seed, and the Influence of the Zohar (Episode 6)THIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. Rabbi Yosef Karo's halachic opinion on non-vaginal intercourse, as expressed in the Shulchan Aruch, is often seen as standard and normative. The reality, however, is much more complex. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum podcast, Scott Kahn talks with Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro, author of Halachic Positions: What Judaism Really Says About Passion in the Marital Bed, about the influence of the Zohar upon the presumed normative halacha, and about the surprising halachic ramifications with which most people are unfamiliar. (This is the fourth episode of a multi-part series on Sexuality...2017-12-1017 min
Orthodox ConundrumIs Non Vaginal Intercourse Permissible? (Episode 5)THIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. Although most religious Jews assume that anal and oral intercourse are halachically forbidden, there is significant discussion and disagreement about this issue in the Talmud and the Rishonim. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum podcast, Scott Kahn talks with Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro, author of Halachic Positions: What Judaism Really Says About Passion in the Marital Bed, about this topic, and about the surprising halachic ramifications with which most people are unfamiliar. (This is the third episode of a multi-part series on Sexuality and Jewish Law on The Orthodox Conundrum.) To...2017-11-1616 min
Orthodox ConundrumExploring the Six Primary Talmudic Texts Dealing With Sexuality (Episode 4)THIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. In Masechet Nedarim 20a, Rabbi Yochanan ben Dehavai states that certain birth defects are caused by particular actions performed by the husband and wife during sexual intercourse; accordingly, he seems to put severe restraints on what a couple may do while having sex. On the other hand, the Sages say that a husband and wife may do whatever they like during intercourse, and that the halacha does not follow Rabbi Yochanan ben Dehavai's restrictive approach. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn and Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro explore this and...2017-11-0918 min
Orthodox ConundrumEpisode 3 - Correcting a Basic Misunderstanding About Judaism and SexualityTHIS PODCAST CONTAINS EXPLICIT MATERIAL. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED. While many people know that Judaism has a positive orientation toward marriage and sex, people often assume that, even within marriage, there are severe restrictions on what is allowed and what is forbidden. In this episode of the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn speaks with Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro, author of Halachic Positions: What Judaism Really Says About Passion In The Marital Bed, in order to understand the source of these assumptions, and to discover what the Halachic literature actually says about this topic. (This is the first of a multi-part series on...2017-11-0114 min
The Jewish Prayer PodcastThe 13 Attributes of Mercy ExplainedChazal tell us that G-d established a covenant with Israel such that their recital of the thirteen attributes of mercy will always result in divine favor. The great Kabbalist Rabbi Moshe Cordovero (d. 1570) explains that it's not enough to recite these attributes; rather, we must learn what they are, and embody them in our own relationships. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn for a ten minute explanation of the thirteen attributes, as well as Rav Cordovero's practical suggestions of how to implement them in our lives.2017-09-2910 min
The Jewish Prayer PodcastHilchot Tekiat Shofar: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know (and more) About Shofar BlowingWith the imminent arrival of the New Year comes the obligation to hear the shofar. But there are many details involved in this mitzvah; without knowledge of these details, you may not understand why you're hearing what you're hearing. In this shiur, Rabbi Scott Kahn presents a comprehensive review of the laws of shofar in only 26 minutes, so that when you hear those sounds, you'll be informed and ready.2017-09-1926 min
Orthodox ConundrumInterview with Rabbi Asher Lopatin, President of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah (Episode 2)Rabbi Asher Lopatin is the president of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah in New York. Chovevei Torah has long been associated with "Open Orthodoxy," but Rabbi Lopatin recently decided to retire that moniker, and wants his yeshiva to be seen as an integral part of the Modern Orthodox world. Many Orthodox Jews, however, view Chovevei Torah as standing outside of Orthodoxy. Join Scott Kahn as he and Rabbi Lopatin have a frank discussion about the meaning of Modern Orthodoxy, women's roles, gay marriage, the sine qua non of Orthodox belief, including the necessity of belief in Torah from Heaven, and more. Music...2017-09-1739 min