Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Lechteich Parshah Podcast

We enter Sefer Devarim and Shabbos Chazon in the shadow of destruction. But hidden in the sorrow is an undeniable lift — a vision of what could be. The Navi doesn’t just warn; he uplifts. Moshe Rabbeinu doesn’t just rebuke; he prepares us to rise.
This week’s message is filled with that kind of helium — weighty words that somehow elevate.

It looks like destruction. It feels like abandonment. But what if the deepest pain we’ve ever felt… is actually a disguise? Rav Shimshon Dovid Pincus zt”l revealed a hidden dimension of Tisha B’Av that changes everything. In this episode, we confront the darkness—not to escape it, but to discover who’s behind it. Because when we look closer, we realize: it’s not a bear. It’s our Father. And He’s never been closer. 

Parshas Masei reminds us that life’s journey is filled with masos—steps forward, stops, and uncertainty. Like ever-shifting puzzle pieces, we rarely see the full picture, but every move is guided from Above. Through personal stories, the Chasam Sofer’s turning point, and the timeless message of Vayisu Vayachanu, we reflect on what it means to Lechteich Acharai BaMidbar—to follow Hashem through unknowns with trust and courage. This is the heart of Lechteich: moving forward, even when the picture isn’t clear—because the One arranging the pieces sees it all.

A deathly ill child. A remote island. An unreachable cure. Rav Akiva Eiger davened—and the impossible arrived on his roof.  This week, we uncover a staggering true story, a Sfas Emes on "תשמרו", and the hidden message of Rosh Chodesh’s korbanos:  Tefillah isn’t distant. It’s the most real thing we have.

Hashem refused to listen—not just to the curse, but even to its words. Parshas Balak reminds us that no matter the intentions or efforts of others, Hashem’s script is unshakable. With a powerful insight from the Chasam Sofer, a moving story of Rav Elimelech and Rav Zusha, and a deeper reflection on Shechinah b’Galusa, we uncover the boundless love and unwavering loyalty that Hashem shows His people—even in the darkest moments. 

The mystery of the Parah Adumah teaches that true purity doesn’t come from staying above others, but from being willing to become tamei—stepping into their pain with them. The Baal Shem Tov reveals that growth starts with humility, and healing starts with empathy. A powerful story of the Lubavitcher Rebbe shows how one act of heart can change a life—and that our hearts were placed on the left, not for ourselves, but so we can be closer to someone else’s right side. 

A slurpee run turns into a powerful question: Does Hashem care where or how we say Tehillim—or just that we say it? Parshas Korach reveals that it’s not just the mitzvah that counts, but the circumstances, the struggle, and the heart behind it. The blossoming of Aharon’s staff teaches us that Hashem cherishes every step, even before the fruit appears. In a world filled with pain and transition, every honest effort matters more than we think. 

This week’s episode is sponsored by Bsefer Chayim, לעילוי נשמת מינדל בת ר' משולם זאב.

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What better gift for a chosson and kallah than a life insurance policy?

When the Meraglim saw themselves as grasshoppers, they guaranteed defeat. This week’s shiur explores how self-perception shapes our reality—personally and nationally. We’re not small. We’re Hashem’s children, endowed with infinite power to uplift the world. Grasshoppers don’t win wars—but Yidden with clarity do. 

Beha’aloscha reminds us that each Jew has a unique path. The trumpets were made only for Moshe—because no two missions are the same. The menorah teaches that every soul is a distinct flame. Our strength lies not in imitation, but in embracing our own role with clarity and courage. In times of threat and confusion, the Torah calls us to cry out, unify, and remember: Hashem fights our battles. One nation. One purpose. Many paths.

After the spiritual high of Shavuos, we often crash — feeling like we’re back in the grind, disconnected, and far from Har Sinai. But Parshas Sotah reminds us: Even when we feel low, we’re never off the team. Even in the eighth spot, we’re power hitters. Hashem treasures the strength it takes to keep fighting — and that fight brings the greatest berachos. 

The yetzer hara will set a whole city ablaze just to pull you away from learning. As we prepare to receive the Torah, we face fiery distractions meant to shake us. But we don’t back down—we fight with fire, or we douse it with water. This episode is about resilience, perseverance, and holding your ground when everything around you is burning.

As we celebrate Lag BaOmer with dancing and flames, Parshas Emor reminds us that true kiddush Hashem means surrendering completely to Hashem’s will—without personal cheshbonos, without expecting outcomes. In a time of pain and uncertainty, especially in Eretz Yisrael, the Rashbi’s legacy and the parshah’s message converge: Real greatness and yeshuah come when we let go of control and live purely for Hashem. That’s the fire that never dies.

A casual lawn chat with a neighbor turns into a powerful mashal about self-worth, spiritual struggle, and how we see others. As we approach Kabbalas HaTorah, we discover the Ohr HaChaim’s life-changing yesod: Even when we feel spiritually barren, Hashem says—Lo siktzor. Don’t cut yourself off. Ever. Keep going… until you reach the greener grass.

A heartfelt story of the Vorker Rebbe reminds us: no one is ever too far gone. Not you. Not ever.

Today is the yahrtzeit of my beloved chavrusa, Yisrael Levin z"l. In his memory, I'm sharing a shiur Stregnth Over Suffering - on overcoming challenges, bitachon, and choosing strength over pain.

It's personal, deep, and candid - tied to the journey of Lechteich, which began after the loss of Yisrael z"l, his kallah Elisheva a"h, and my brother Noach Raphael z"l.

I encourage you to listen especially if you wonder why this topic belongs on the joyous yom tov of Pesach.

The questions of the Mah Nishtanah aren’t a cute performance — they’re a deep invitation to awaken wonder, curiosity, and connection. This Pesach, we explore how the Seder night calls on every Jew, at every age, to ask, to search, and to grow.

The Mishkan Ha’edus stands as a powerful testimony that no matter how far we may feel from Hashem, we are never truly lost. It teaches us that through teshuvah, we can always return to Him, no matter our past mistakes. This month of Nissan reminds us that renewal is always within reach, and Hashem is waiting to welcome us back with open arms. 

We often see ourselves through the lens of our shortcomings, believing we are unworthy of greatness. But Hashem sees things differently. Just as the mirrors in the Mishkan, once perceived as mere tools of vanity, became vessels of holiness, so too can our struggles and imperfections be elevated. In this episode, we explore a powerful story of Rav Shlomo Freifeld and the lesson of the Kiyor—reminding us that no matter our past, Hashem is always ready to lift us higher.

This shiur was given a week ago at Torah Academy of Philadelphia to Rabbi Picks’ 6th-grade class.

Purim is a day of v’nahafoch hu—when everything can turn upside down in an instant. But what does that really mean in our lives? From Donald Trump to a broken sprinkler on a scorching summer day, this shiur uncovers the hidden hand of Hashem in the twists and turns of life. A powerful message on miracles, hashgachah, and the essence of Purim—you won’t want to miss this.

In this week's episode, we explore the powerful symbolism of the Keruvim in this week's parsha and their connection to the tragic story of the Bibas children, hy"d. Drawing from the teachings of Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach and Rabbi Shimshon Pincus, we delve into how our relationship with Hashem shapes our reality and how the Keruvim reflect our spiritual alignment. This episode reminds us that no matter how dark the world may seem, our bond with Hashem remains our guiding light.

Yisro’s greatness wasn’t just in what he heard—it was in how he saw. He had a panoramic vision, always seeking truth and embracing growth. This week, we explore why the parshah of Matan Torah is named after him and how his perspective teaches us to rise above the momentary and focus on the eternal.

At a recent parlor meeting for a kollel, Rav Avraham Krohn inspired the audience with a powerful insight from Rav Asher Arielli and Rav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz. Why was Yehoshua, not Moshe Rabbeinu, chosen to lead the battle against Amalek? The answer reveals a profound truth about Torah and avodas Hashem: True greatness lies not in innate brilliance but in relentless effort. In this episode, we explore the depth of this lesson and its relevance in our own struggles, especially during the days of Shovavim.

A bochur boards a flight, determined to stand by his values—no compromises, no Plan B. What happens next, involving an Oct 7 hostage, is nothing short of remarkable. And in Parshas Bo, Hashem gives Moshe the same message: move forward with absolute resolve. No hesitation. No backup plan. Just unwavering commitment.

Tech giants like Apple and Google spend billions to grab attention in the first few seconds, knowing that once hooked, consumers stay engaged. This tactic, rooted in human nature, mirrors the way the yetzer hara works, drawing us into temptation in an instant. In this week’s parashah, the Mitzrim’s stubbornness during Makkas Tzefardei’a shows how one moment of irrationality can lead to uncontrollable consequences. True greatness comes when we master those fleeting moments of desire, pausing to regain control before reacting impulsively. 

The Bobover Rebbe saw greatness in Moshe, even when Moshe seemed far removed from holiness. He looked past the struggles and external failings, recognizing the pure, untarnished soul within. In this time of Shovavim, we’re reminded that no matter where we stand or how far we’ve strayed, the ground beneath us is holy. Remove the barriers, reconnect to your essence, and take the next step toward becoming the real you 

Yaakov Avinu declares Menashe and Ephraim as 'his own,' despite being raised in Egypt without his direct influence. This highlights that true chinuch isn’t about behavior under supervision, but about how deeply values are internalized. Menashe and Ephraim, raised in a challenging environment, remained steadfast in their principles—reflecting the lasting impact of Yaakov’s chinuch. This teaches us that our values can endure, even when far from the source. 

Explore a profound lesson from the Beis Halevi, based on Yosef’s question, 'Is my father still alive?' Yosef’s words were not merely an inquiry but a rebuke to his brothers for the pain they caused their father. The Beis Halevi teaches that we often justify our actions with excuses, but when we examine them closely, we see how inconsistent they are. This message encourages us to reflect on our actions, strive for integrity, and align our choices with the will of Hashem, free from contradictions and excuses. 

Be sure to check out 2 NEW Lechteich podcasts:

1. Footsteps of Greatness:
   https://24six.app/app/podcast/collection/11397
   
2. Lechteich Mussar Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lechteich-mussar-podcast/id1787746928

Be sure to subscribe to the new In the Footsteps of Greatness podcast, featuring short, inspiring stories of greatness designed to uplift and inspire you, exclusively available on 24/6

https://24six.app/app/podcast/collection/11397Footsteps of Greatness 

In a world filled with noise, the most profound messages often emerge from silence, revealing meaning where it’s least expected. 

Empower your tefillah and elevate it to new heights—see the incredible impact it can have, and take inspiration from those who have done so before you. 

At times, our challenges and trials feel as unmovable as Mount Everest, overwhelming us with their seeming permanence. Yet, from the salvation Sarah experienced through the miraculous birth of Yitzchak Avinu, we learn a profound truth: no obstacle is too great for God. Sarah, who thought she was beyond the possibility of bearing a child, discovered that what seems impossible to us is entirely within God’s reach. Her story reminds us that even our greatest struggles are opportunities for divine intervention, and just as God transformed Sarah’s despair into joy, He can shift our own challenges into blessings. 

This episode reveals the power of a single, transformative moment. Og, inspired by Avraham’s mitzvah, carried that spark of holiness for centuries. Similarly, Rabbi Ronnie Greenwald’s faith in a struggling teen saw her not as a problem but as a future 'Bubbe' with untold potential. One small act can ignite lasting impact, shaping lives and legacies. 

There is a divine order—a 'shura,' or line—in which we are all meant to stand. When we stray from this alignment, as the Dor HaFlaga did, it leads to chaos and ultimately to destruction, as exemplified by the story of the Mabul.

We all aspire to be in the ideal place, the perfect zone, where everything feels just right. But Hashem calls us to embrace and serve Him from wherever we are, in any situation. That’s the essence of our avodah as Yidden—finding meaning and purpose right where we stand. And this is also the beauty and accessibility of teshuva.

Synthesizing insights from the the Brisker Rav and the Chiddushei HaRim offers powerful lessons for navigating the turbulent times we live in, while helping us achieve the new selves we aspire to become on this auspicious day.

Each nisayon we face is like a fake pearl, offering fleeting enjoyment. Temimus dictates that we give up the false pleasure for the lasting pleasure of a real pearl—eternity.