Welcome to Listening to Understand, where sensitive Jewish truth-seekers gather in a safe place for candid conversations on challenging topics. When we listen to truly understand - and not to respond - we can replace judgment with curiosity and open our hearts to every Jew, regardless of their personal choices.
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Unlocking the Secrets of Kosher Astrology (Yitzchok Aharon Pinkesz)
Episode 24
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 • Duration 02:00:15
In this enlightening conversation, Matana and Yitzchok A. Pinkesz delve into the world of astrology from a Jewish perspective, exploring the significance of kosher astrology, the interplay of free will, and the cosmic energies that shape our personalities. They discuss the importance of understanding astrological cycles, the role of healing in personal growth, and how astrology can guide relationships. Astrology is not deterministic; rather, it serves as a tool for self-awareness and navigating life's challenges. Yitzchok discusses the significance of understanding character traits in relationships, the importance of personal growth, and how astrology can serve as a tool for insight and healing. He emphasizes the need for self-love and divine connection, while also exploring the impact of trauma and the cycles of life. The discussion touches on current astrological events and their significance, as well as Yitzchok's personal journey into astrology and its connection to personal growth.
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Einav Danino and the Angels Along Her Journey (Yuko Query)
Episode 23
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 • Duration 01:15:06
What happens when a grieving mother, a Jewish podcaster, and a Delta airline pilot cross paths by “chance” at an airport security line? In this unforgettable episode, Matana introduces Yuko Query, the Delta pilot who stopped to comfort Einav Danino, mother of murdered hostage Ori Danino, and ended up flying her safely to New York. What began as a simple act of compassion became a powerful story of faith, divine timing, and unlikely friendship. Called an “angel” by Matana, Yuko shares her journey of prayer, courage, and devotion, reminding us how one small moment can change everything.
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Heaven, Hell and the Jewish Afterlife (Shmuel Phillips)
Episode 14
Monday, June 17, 2024 • Duration 01:09:18
As a thinker, scholar and author of 2 acclaimed books, Judaism Reclaimed and Talmud Reclaimed, Rabbi Shmuel Phillips dives into the pivotal role of morality within Judaism and how Jewish teachings define concepts of Olam Haba, Geyhinom from biblical narratives and rabbinic literature and explores the complexities of ethical decision-making in Jewish life.
While Teshuvah (repentance) and Hoda'ah (acknowledgment) foster spiritual growth and strengthen one's connection with God, perspectives from historical narratives and philosophical insights illustrate the dynamic interplay between morality and Jewish identity and how historical figures grappled with moral challenges and emerged as enduring role models of resilience and introspection and emphasize the universal lessons that can be gleaned from Jewish teachings on morality.
The timeless wisdom of Jewish tradition offer a compelling perspective on how Judaism continues to inspire moral integrity and ethical responsibility in an ever-changing world.
Rabbi Phillips was born and raised in England, has spent almost two decades studying in Yeshiva and Kollel in Israel and has also completed a law degree from the University of London.
Rob Moore, is a single father, a proud Israeli-American, a creative producer and the filmmaker behind "Echoes of Loss: Eight Days in Israel", a powerful feature length documentary shows the world that the grief and loss of the people of Israel should not be politicized or discarded, and that these voices matter.
Rob delves into various themes surrounding grief, loss, faith, and resilience. Rob shares personal experiences of navigating grief, including the profound impact of environment on triggering emotions and the importance of community and support for those experiencing loss, highlighting the strength found in unity.
Rob reflects on the ongoing conflict in Israel and his journey through grief being the inspiration behind his documentary that provides valuable insights into the human experience of tragedy and the search for healing and meaning.
Finding Individual Beliefs and Values on the Journey of Spirituality, Religion and Judaism (Meir Kay)
Episode 12
Sunday, May 26, 2024 • Duration 01:00:25
Meir Kay joins us to explore themes of spirituality, self-discovery, and the human experience within the complexities of faith, identity, and personal growth, while navigating life's uncertainties. He discusses the importance of embracing change, overcoming fear, and finding meaning in life's most difficult moments and reflects on the role of religion and tradition in shaping individual beliefs and values.
Despite the tension between spiritual orthodoxy and personal autonomy, it is important to question and evolve one's faith in pursuit of authenticity and fulfillment while still staying focusing on the power of love, compassion, and connection in transcending boundaries and bridging divides and harness the transformative potential of vulnerability, empathy, and forgiveness in fostering deeper understanding and unity within ourselves and our communities.
This conversation is a transformative journey of introspection, inspiration, and healing, serving as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human spirit and the profound power of love to illuminate even the darkest of times.
About Meir: Meir Kay is a breathwork facilitator, Co-founder of Ahdama, a Jewish Men’s Retreat and creator of the Kids Show “Mak and Friendz” and is on a mission to connect people with their hearts through various somatic and embodiment practices. Meir travels the world facilitating breathwork and ecstatic dance workshops. In 2023 Meir partnered up with Eli Nash to create the Ahdama Remembrance- a Jewish Men’s retreat, where a safe space is created for men to stretch past their limiting beliefs, remember who they are and connect with brothers who are on a similar path.
The Birth of the Legacy of a Fallen IDF Soldier: Beit Binyamin (Jen Airley)
Episode 11
Monday, May 13, 2024 • Duration 41:49
Binyamin Airley, OB"M, was an IDF soldier who devoted his life to protect Israel and the citizen of Israel.
You can join his parent's efforts in continuing his legacy by helping to support a healing home for those suffered trauma and loss and for those who need healing after October 7th by clicking here: https://causematch.com/BeitBinyamin
Shabbos Kestenbaum is a graduate student at Harvard University, researching the intersections between between public policy and contemporary Jewish life in the United States. Shabbos is the lead plaintiff against Harvard University alleging pervasive and systemic antisemitism. Shabbos appears regularly on CNN, Fox News, and The New York Times, and has testified in front of the United States Congress, among other forums, to advocate for the American Jewish community.
Currently, Shabbos is working with Congress to pass major pieces of legislation to combat antisemitism and discusses some of the battles being fought on behalf of Jewish students attending Harvard University.
From Missions in Gaza to Celebrating the Good Moments in Life (Arky Staiman)
Episode 9
Sunday, April 14, 2024 • Duration 01:18:45
Arky Staiman is a solider in the IDF, tour guide in Israel, husband, father and an independent social media voice of optimism from the battlefield. His talent lay in the healing power of storytelling and connection with the land of Israel and discusses his role in the army, where he works in a specially trained unit, to retrieve soldiers fallen behind enemy lines.
His message is clear and powerful and he has personally and independently undertaken to promote empathy, spiritual growth, understanding and permission to celebrate what is working during challenging times while holding space through personal narratives and what he believes our mission as jews should be.
Arky shares personal events that transpired on October 7th that impacted him and what is next for him and his family.
From Crisis to Community: The Backstory of an IDF Soldier's Wife Giving Strength & Support (Avigail Staiman)
Episode 8
Sunday, April 7, 2024 • Duration 01:19:14
Avigail Staiman is a warrior, whose journey is intricately woven with the unwavering support and love of her husband, Arky. Arky's impactful video gained viral attention during the intense conflict in Gaza and garnered support and concern from individuals spanning decades of connections, including long-lost friends and acquaintances. This unexpected surge of outreach served as a testament to the power of Arky's message and the resonance it had with people from all walks of life. The video not only showcased Arky's courage and resilience but it clearly resonated with people from all walks of life. Despite the past and future challenges for them both, Avigail shares their combined resilience and unity and shares her message of hope and perseverance to others facing challenges.
The History and Modern Dilemma of Exempting Charedim from Tzahal
Episode 7
Friday, March 29, 2024 • Duration 01:15:16
JJ Kimche, a PhD candidate at Harvard University, has been involved in studying and teaching Jewish ideas and has taught Western and Jewish ideas at Harvard, Brandeis, MIT, Gratz College and other institutions.
His writings and articles have been published in the Wall Street Journal, First Things, and City Journal and other publications and is the editor of his first academic book, Letters on Kabbalah, due to soon be published. He is the host of, and may be found conversing with other scholars, on, the Podcast of Jewish Ideas.
JJ delves into the sensitive topic of Charedim joining or being exempt from Tzahal Military service and explores the perspective from the Charedi viewpoint and sheds light on untold stories of Charedi soldiers. The tensions between tradition and modernity are real, gritty and complex and the personal and communal implications of military involvement more so. The nuances and consequences of this topic affect identity, duty, and the evolving landscape of Charedi life and offer us a rare glimpse into a deeply personal, heated and heavily debated aspect of Israeli society.
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