Shows
Orthodox ConundrumGod's Loyal Opposition: Anger, Faith, and Divine Confrontation, with Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum (263)Is it possible—maybe even Jewish—to be angry at God? From Abraham's challenge at Sodom to Job's cries of despair, Tanach is filled with voices that confront the Divine. But what does that mean for us today, when we struggle with personal tragedy, global antisemitism, and the ongoing pain of the seemingly endless war against Hamas? In this wide-ranging conversation on the Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn speaks with Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum, Dean of the London School of Jewish Studies, about whether anger at God is heresy or a profound act of faith. Along the way, they...
2025-09-151h 15
Orthodox ConundrumThe New Face of American Antisemitism: Violence, Politics, and Denial (BONUS EPISODE)Two Israeli embassy staffers shot in Washington. Jewish activists burned in Boulder. A mayoral candidate in New York who refused to condemn the Holocaust gaining momentum. Antisemitism in the United States is no longer hiding in the shadows — it's on the march, in broad daylight. In this urgent bonus episode of Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn speaks with Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz and Andy Weiss about the troubling rise in antisemitic violence and rhetoric, the mainstreaming of hate, and how American Jews are responding — with concern, activism, and a growing sense of alarm. From Zohran Mamdani's alarming candidacy to the...
2025-06-191h 00
Orthodox ConundrumWhat Comes Next? Yaakov Katz on Israel's War, Netanyahu's Calculations, and the Search for an Endgame (250)Twenty months into the war with Hamas, many Israelis and supporters abroad are asking the same urgent question: how will this end? In this in-depth episode of Orthodox Conundrum, Scott Kahn is joined by Yaakov Katz, one of Israel's most respected journalists and author of While Israel Slept, to examine whether Israel's military goals are still realistic — or even defined. They discuss the uncertain state of the war, Netanyahu's political maneuvering, the role of the Chareidi parties, international pressure, and the trust gap between the government and the public. It's a sobering but essential conversation for anyone who cares abo...
2025-06-091h 13
Intimate Judaism(61) Did I Marry the Wrong Person?In this episode, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn blend Jewish wisdom with modern psychology to explore marital doubt, intimacy challenges, and when to stay or go. Tune in for practical insights on transforming even the most challenging relationships.
2025-02-0951 minIntimate Judaism(60) "Happy Wife, Happy Life"?Many contemporary how-to guides to Jewish marriage in the Orthodox world encourage husbands to shoulder full responsibility for their wives' happiness at the expense of their own. In the yeshiva world this is known as "being mevater." Though teaching young men to be unconditionally kind and respectful to their wives sounds progressive, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss the potential problems with this approach.
2025-01-1447 minIntimate Judaism(59) Will I Marry the Wrong Person?Choosing a marriage partner is one of the most important decisions one makes in life. Yet the process of dating, building a relationship and deciding to marry requires time and good relational skills. Listen as Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss dating and getting engaged.
2024-12-0854 minIntimate Judaism(57) Hugging with a shinui: Halachic leniency in times of distressAccording to Rav Yoni Rosensweig, founder of Maagalei Nefesh, an organization that confronts issues pertaining to mental health and halacha, "Jewish law is not meant to cause harm." War, mental health concerns, and emotional and relational distress are factors that contribute to the need to seek leniencies in halachic practice in a way that reduces, rather than increases, potential harm. Listen to the premiere episode of Season 7 of Intimate Judaism as Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss mental health, intimacy and Halacha with our guest, Rav Yoni Rosensweig.
2024-09-101h 05Intimate JudaismThe Sex Strike Controversy: An Intimate Judaism Live ConversationThe infamous "Sex Strike" was recently spearheaded by influencer Adina Miles, AKA "Flatbush Girl," in order to apply communal pressure to men and their rabbis to free Malky Berkowitz, who has been refused a get for four years. This initiative has created a great deal of outrage in Jewish Orthodox communities, and the "responsa" on social media platforms has been passionate and robust. Some have expressed concern that withholding sex, even for one night, is liable to destroy more marriages. Others see the outrage as the problem, and point out the lack of such fury over get refusal. Join Ra...
2024-03-1241 minIntimate JudaismThe Failure of Sexual Health Organizations to Condemn Sexual Violence (crossover episode with Orthodox Conundrum)After October 7th, Jews around the world have felt besieged by some erstwhile allies, as some have been silent in the face of rampant antisemitism, and others have openly supported Hamas and its genocidal goals. While there have been many who openly support Jews and Israel, the war in Gaza has also provided a moment of reckoning as we discovered some unhappy surprises about people we thought were our friends. A good example is the reaction to October 7th by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists, or AASECT. As an organization dedicated to healthy...
2024-03-051h 06Intimate Judaism(54) Sex Positive Premarital Kallah InstructionIn many Orthodox communities, premarital sex education taught by Kallah teachers is limited to ensuring wedding night "success" and encouraging strict observance of Nidah laws in order to "guarantee" sexual satisfaction. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum as they interview two Kallah instructors, Dr. Hadassah Fromson and Dr. Yosefa Wruble, who discuss how they integrate discussions about sexual pleasure and satisfaction together with promoting commitment to traditional observance. Sharing their research and anecdotal experiences, they demonstrate that religion and sex positivity are not contradictory, but are in fact complementary.
2024-02-1356 minIntimate Judaism(51) Love in War: Strengthening Security and Connection Amidst Trauma and ThreatAs Jews in Israel and worldwide absorb the realities of the horrors of threat, murder and violation, it seems surreal to think or talk about intimacy. Yet, in the face of threat, the safety and security of a committed partnership can be a comforting resource. And in the confrontation with death, people sometimes seek the vitality and life affirming energy that sexual relations provide. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum for a discussion on intimacy, sex and peace in the home during war. Spoiler- it's all normal.
2023-10-2142 minIntimate JudaismShould We Sympathize with Sexual Offenders? (Special Episode)A podcast hosted by an Orthodox comedian recently featured a controversial interview with a child sex offender. In response, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum created a panel to discuss whether there are potential benefits to learning more about people who struggle with attraction to minors and do not offend, as well as those who do. (This episode contains explicit material regarding sexual abuse that some readers may find disturbing.) Show your support for Intimate Judaism by becoming a patron on Patreon! Go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism to learn more.
2023-08-201h 13
Orthodox ConundrumShould We Sympathize with Sexual Offenders? (Special Episode)A podcast hosted by an Orthodox comedian recently featured a controversial interview with a child sex offender. In response, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum created a panel to discuss whether there are potential benefits to learning more about people who struggle with attraction to minors and do not offend, as well as those who do. (This episode contains explicit material regarding sexual abuse that some readers may find disturbing.) Please listen to and share this podcast, and let us know what you think on the Orthodox Conundrum Discussion Group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/432020081498108).
2023-08-201h 16Intimate JudaismAncient Love in Modern Times: Celebrating Love on Tu B'Av (BONUS EPISODE)The 15th of Av , also known as Tu B'Av, is a minor Jewish festival which in modern day Israel is celebrated as a holiday of romantic love, not unlike Valentine's Day. In this mini bonus episode, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss the Mishnaic origins of this day, and compare ancient and modern day beliefs about love. To purchase I Am For My Beloved: A Guide To Enhanced Intimacy For Married Couples by Talli Rosenbaum and David Ribner, go to http://www.urimpublications.com/i-am-for-my-beloved-a-guide-to-enhanced-intimacy-for-married-couples.html. For the Hebrew version, go to http://www.urimpublications.com/ani...
2023-08-0231 minIntimate Judaism"Date 'Em 'Til You Hate 'Em": A Visit with Netflix Star Aleeza Ben Shalom (BONUS EPISODE)Not since Yenta from Fiddler on the Roof has there been a matchmaker as famous as Aleeza Ben Shalom! Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum for a rollicking discussion with the colorful, engaging and entertaining host of "Jewish Matchmaking."
2023-05-2131 minIntimate Judaism(48) Is There a Modern Orthodox Shidduch Crisis?The shidduch crisis refers to the phenomenon in the Orthodox Jewish community whereby eligible single persons, especially women, have difficulty finding a suitable spouse. While there are definite differences between the way dating for marriage is approached and conducted in the Hasidic, Yeshivish and Modern Orthodox worlds, there are also some similarities. Recently, a research study was conducted to better understand and promote awareness regarding the struggles that many Orthodox Jewish daters face across the religious spectrum. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum, together with study authors Dr. Michael Salamon and Dr. Naomi Rosenbach, as they discuss the resear...
2023-02-2150 min
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 17Intimate 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(46) Want, Will, Should or Must: Is the Sex You Are Having Really Consensual?Numerous sources in our tradition demonstrate that sex in marriage must be mutual and consensual, and at no time can sex be forced or coerced. However, If a woman has been taught that she must do what her husband wants and she is responsible for protecting him from sin, she will fear the consequences of saying no. In this episode, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn discuss how non-consensual sexual dynamics can be built in to the system even as normative Jewish law forbids coercive sex. We invite you to listen to this thought provoking and important discussion about th...
2022-12-1853 minIntimate Judaism(45) Navigating Relational and Sexual Intimacy During Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Postpartum PeriodPregnancy and childbirth are profound events in the life of a couple. The physical, psychological and hormonal changes that occur to women during pregnancy and in the postpartum period can impact both partners and affect emotional and sexual intimacy. Couples must learn to adjust to a changed family system and a new identity as parents. Observant Jewish couples are additionally affected by laws that restrict touch during childbirth and in the postpartum period. In this episode, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum discuss how pregnancy and childbirth as well as restrictions on physical touch, can affect relational intimacy and s...
2022-11-0850 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 ConundrumThe Kinot of Tisha B'Av: Explanations and Commentary (Bonus Episode Rerelease)Join Scott Kahn in this rereleased bonus episode for commentaries on 25 of the 40 kinot (lamentations) that Jews recite on the morning of Tisha B'Av. (The time signatures for each commentary are listed below.) Along with all of the Jewish people, we pray that this be the final Tisha B'Av on which we mourn. May the upcoming year be one of gladness, joy, and redemption for us, for all of Israel, and for the whole world. Kinah 6 (שבת סורו) begins at 0:42 Kinah 7 (איכה אצת) begins at 6:17 Kinah 8 (אאדה) begins at 9:04 Kinah 9 (איכה תפארתי) beings at 13:42 Kinah 10 (איכה ישבה) begins at 17:01 Kinah 11 (ויקונן ירמיהו) begins at 19:59 Kinah 12 (אהלי) begins at 25:16 Kinah 13 (אי כה) begins at 29:40 Kinah 14 (איכה את אשר כבר עשוהו) begins at 34:55 Kinah 15 (איכה אשפתו) begins at 40:19 Kinah 16 (זכר את אש...
2022-08-041h 45Intimate Judaism(42) 'The Surrendered Wife' and Marital Intimacy: Hierarchal Power Dynamics Versus Equal and Mutual PartnershipLast month, Orthodox Jewish journalist Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt published an article in The Atlantic highlighting the popularity of Laura Doyle's 2001 New York Times bestseller, 'The Surrendered Wife,' among Orthodox Jewish women. Doyle's book provides a practical guide to marital bliss and harmony, suggesting that women stop being critical and demanding of their husbands, respect and trust them, and regularly engage in self-care and "be vulnerable." Many would consider this to be sound advice, and Doyle's devotees on social media have reported that their marriages underwent a complete transformation after reading the book and applying its principles. In som...
2022-05-1754 min
Intimate Judaism(41) Mindfulness, Pleasure and Orgasm: The Jewish Pleasure PrincipleJudaism values sexuality in the framework of marriage, both for the purposes of procreation and for relational intimacy. But does Judaism sanction the enhancement of physical pleasure, or should it be minimized? Do the Sages relate to pleasure differently in men and women, and how aware were they regarding the female experience of desire, arousal and orgasm? Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum as we discuss the "Jewish Pleasure Principle." Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more! Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism.
2022-04-0643 min
Intimate Judaism(40) "Male and Female He Created Them": Trans, Non-Binary, and Orthodox JudaismAccording to Jewish sources, God created humans as distinctly male or distinctly female. The roles, obligations and privileges of each gender are clearly defined in our tradition. Yet, not everyone conforms to the gender assigned to them at birth and some individuals experience their gender as distinctly opposite. Can Orthodox individuals who identify as non-binary or transgender find welcoming places, literally and figuratively, in Orthodox society? In this month's episode, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn speak with Rebitzen and social worker Daniela Weiss-Bronstein, about this important topic. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional...
2022-03-0949 min
Intimate Judaism(39) Straight FOMO, Hymenal Myths, Vasectomy Envy, Fetishes, BDSM and Mad at God: Listening to our Listeners Q&AIn this month's episode, we turn the mike over to you, our listeners, and answer a handful of the many questions you have sent in on email, Facebook and Instagram messenger. Listen to Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn discuss what happens to queer women who don't want to miss out on traditional marriage and sexual reproduction, when you are angry at God, when babies destroy your sex life and much more. Join here for the full podcast episode. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more, including a Q and A d...
2022-02-0854 min
Orthodox ConundrumThe Fissures in Jewish Society: Is Bridging Them a Lost Cause? (98)The lack of unity among the Jewish people is as obvious as it is troubling. We all know that it's a problem, and has been a problem for as long as there have been Jews. But the normal way of addressing it is by saying that unity is achievable… just as soon as everyone agrees with my way of seeing things. Obviously, this isn't a method that is destined to succeed. Sometimes it seems that the gaps are too big, the disagreements too intense, the self-righteousness of all sides too entrenched. JJ Sussman, the International Director at Gesher, says that al...
2022-02-0746 min
Intimate Judaism(38) Reproductive Health and Halacha Part 2: Birth Control MethodsReproductive health ensures that couples can lead satisfying sex lives, and make informed decisions regarding family planning. Decisions related to birth control methods are generally guided by various factors, including health, convenience, cost, preference, and sexual or other side effects. For most observant Jewish couples, these decisions are also informed by Jewish law. In the second episode of our two-part series on reproductive health and halacha, Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum speak with gynecologist Dr. Elissa Hellman, also known as "The Confident Kallah" about the various methods available to couples, their impact on sex, their impact on...
2022-01-1158 min
Intimate Judaism(37) Reproductive Health, Birth Control, and Jewish LawReproductive health is relevant to all couples in their childbearing years. Family planning, fertility interventions, and the use of contraception are guided by values and Halachic considerations, and involve several other factors including financial concerns, personal and professional goals, desired family size, and relationship stability. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum in the first of a two-part series on reproductive health and Halacha. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more, including a Q and A dropping this week. Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism.
2021-12-0748 min
Intimate Judaism(36) Out of the Closet Without Shame: Balancing Conflicting Identities of LGBTQ and OrthodoxyIn past decades, being Orthodox and gay meant suffering in the closet, or choosing to live authentically at the expense of religion. Today, more LGBTQ individuals and couples wish to retain their religious identities while embracing their sexual orientation. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum in a moving interview with Rachel Weinstein, Shimmy Feintuch and Joshua Brook. Become an Intimate Judaism Patreon subscriber to get additional episodes, merch, and more, including a Q and A dropping this week. Just go to https://www.patreon.com/intimatejudaism.
2021-11-0959 min
Intimate Judaism(35) Sex Positivity, Sexual Health, and Sexual Rights: Are These Jewish Values?The World Health Organization defines sexual health as fundamental to the overall health and well-being of individuals, couples and families, and considers sexual pleasure to be a basic human right. In Judaism, sexual pleasure is valued, but only in the context of marital sex, leaving many people in conflict between their sexual health and spiritual health. Join Rabbi Scott Kahn and Talli Rosenbaum as they discuss the six principles of sexual health, and how they conflict with or align with Jewish values. To register for the webinar referenced in the podcast, go to https://webinars.tallirosenbaum.com...
2021-10-1151 min
Intimate Judaism(34) Men Are Pigs and Women Are Distractions: What Messages About Sex Are Taught in Yeshiva, Seminary, and College?During the month of Elul, hundreds of high school graduates flock to Israel for their gap year programs, yeshivot, and seminaries. This year offers experiences of high level learning, spiritual growth, increased maturity, new friendships, and fun. But many students experience confusion, particularly around their developing sexuality. The legendary "Night of Tears" refers to the night that some yeshiva boys and seminary girls are encouraged to end their boyfriend/girlfriend relationships for the greater good of full time Torah study. On the other hand, the phenomenon of clubbing, drinking, and hooking up is real. Are our educational institutions teaching...
2021-08-3152 min
Intimate JudaismWhose Business is My Unorthodox Life, Anyway? (BONUS EPISODE)The Netflix reality show, My Unorthodox Life, has been the talk of much of the Orthodox world since it was released less than two weeks ago. It tells the story of Julia Haart, who first developed a shoe line, and quickly rose in the world of fashion. She now is the the CEO and co-owner of Elite World Group, the world's largest modeling network. As most of you probably know, the reason that her story is different from others is that Julia was an Orthodox Jew named Talia Hendler living in Monsey. She had once been a...
2021-07-261h 03
Orthodox ConundrumThe Kinot of Tisha B'Av: Explanations, Themes, and Commentary (Bonus Episode)Join Scott Kahn in this bonus episode for commentaries on 25 of the 40 kinot (lamentations) that Jews recite on the morning of Tisha B'Av. (The time signatures for each commentary are listed below.) Along with all of the Jewish people, we pray that this be the final Tisha B'Av on which we mourn. May the upcoming year be one of gladness, joy, and redemption for us, for all of Israel, and for the whole world. Kinah 6 (שבת סורו) begins at 0:42 Kinah 7 (איכה אצת) begins at 6:17 Kinah 8 (אאדה) begins at 9:04 Kinah 9 (איכה תפארתי) beings at 13:42 Kinah 10 (איכה ישבה) begins at 17:01 Kinah 11 (ויקונן ירמיהו) begins at 19:59 Kinah 12 (אהלי) begins at 25:16 Kinah 13 (אי כה) begins at 29:40 Kinah 14 (איכה את אשר כבר עשוהו) begins at 34:55 Kinah 15 (איכה אשפתו) begins at 40:19 Kinah 16 (זכר את אשר עשה...
2021-07-151h 45
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...
2021-06-0237 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...
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 Intimate J...
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...
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 acceptance...
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 Wolicki...
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 questions...
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
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...
2020-08-0333 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
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...
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 behaviors...
2020-03-0248 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...
2020-01-2742 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
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 discussion...
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 hashkafic issu...
2019-04-1042 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
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
Morning Drive Bible(000) Morning Drive Bible PREMIERE EPISODEJoin David Nekrutman and Scott Kahn in Jerusalem for the very first episode of MORNING DRIVE BIBLE – the Monday-Thursday podcast that gives you a daily dose of Biblical wisdom that combines depth, scholarship, and entertainment. And coffee. Seriously, what could be a better way to start your day?
The post (000) Morning Drive Bible PREMIERE EPISODE first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
2019-02-0700 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
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 a...
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...
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
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
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
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
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
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
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