Listening to Understand – Details, episodes & analysis

Omar Pinto is a spiritual guide whose unconventional journey from addiction to enlightenment has resonated profoundly within orthodox Jewish communities. Omar's clients, predominantly orthodox Jews grappling with spiritual disillusionment and personal crises, seek his guidance to rediscover faith and inner peace.

Against the backdrop of orthodox Jewish traditions, Omar candidly shares his own struggles and spiritual awakening, including his unorthodox use of plant medicine as a catalyst for healing. His clients, facing challenges ranging from religious conformity to personal crises, find solace and transformation through Omar's compassionate and unconventional approach to spirituality. Omar advocates for a personal, authentic approach to spirituality. He encourages listeners to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, emphasizing that true connection with the divine lies in embracing one's unique path rather than conforming to societal or religious expectations.

With Matana's thought provoking questions, Omar explores resilience, authenticity, and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment and a compelling narrative of transformation and optimism that offer profound insights into finding inner peace and spiritual awakening amidst life's challenges.

Connect with Omar:

omar@omarpintocoaching.com

http://www.omarpinto.com

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the Listening to Understand WhatsApp community, where we share exclusive information about episodes and topics discussed on the show. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Comments or Suggestions?

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com



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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.

Connect with Rabbi Phillips:

https://www.talmudreclaimed.com

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the Listening to Understand WhatsApp community, where we share exclusive information about episodes and topics discussed on the show. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Comments or Suggestions?

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Sponsored by:

SwagMyGear.com

Get your custom printed & promotional logo Tees, hoodies, hats, swag, and other gear, great for Bar & Bat Mitzvas, business& corporate, family gatherings & events, all printed with your logo or message.

Get $55.00 off your order today with coupon code MATANA

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Maxifyz.com provides doctor formulated, lab certified, USA grown high quality CBD oils, tinctures and 100% legal Hemp products to reduce anxiety and stress, provide muscle relaxation and help to get a better night’s sleep.

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Is public alcohol abuse out of control at Kiddushim and Shul? Should communities and Rabbonim set alcohol boundaries in shul at Kiddushim? Should we accept poor behavior? Are we role modeling good behavior for our children? Do we understand the difference between using alcohol responsibly and irresponsibly in Judaism? 

Menachem Poznanski is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in addictions treatment and recovery support. Menachem is Director of The Living Room, a clubhouse program for Jewish young adults in recovery from addiction, and Editor-in-chief of The Light Revealed, a content publisher serving the Jewish recovery community. Menachem is the author of three books and hosts the podcast "Consciously" 

Menachem weighs in on the need for individuals to critically examine their beliefs and behaviors. Excessive alcohol consumption is something that we need to take accountability for and we need to recognize personal limits and ownership of our actions and not let alcohol be an excuse for irresponsible behavior. Introducing our children to responsible alcohol consumption, in moderation, can be a good step to changing the accepted norms.

Connect with Menachem:

Website: TLRfamily.org Thelightrevealed.org

Email: MenachemP@TLRfamily.org

Instagram: @menachempuz @thelightrevealed

Menachem’s Books:

https://mosaicapress.com/product/acceptance/

https://mosaicapress.com/product/consciously/

https://mosaicapress.com/product/stepping-out-of-the-abyss/

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Amudim Kiddush Video 

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the Listening to Understand WhatsApp community, where we share exclusive information about episodes and topics discussed on the show. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Comments or Suggestions?

We’d love to hear from you:

Listen to Understand: The Ripple Effect of Secrecy on Identity and Relationships

Mordechai Salzberg, LCSW, is a sexual addiction therapist who works primarily with Chasidic Jews. After his first episode on the Hope to Recharge podcast last January 2022 titled “The Fatal Price of Sexual Shame and Secrecy,” he joins us this time, armed with the courage to tell his own story.

The goal of this episode is not to attack any particular community, but rather, to bring healthy and meaningful awareness for those affected by these topics, as well as to make them informed that there is hope and healing possible with awareness, conversation, and therapy.

Growing up within a traditional Orthodox community, Motti was exposed early on to the secrecy and shame surrounding sexuality and intimacy, along with the stringent path in life expected of him, a stereotypical Bechor (firstborn son). Since then, it has taken decades of soul searching for him to accept his sexuality, acknowledge and take responsibility for his actions, and finally, to share who he is with the world.

In this episode, he recounts his journey as a gay man, including the trauma from years of secrecy and denial, the unhealthy and risky ways he has coped, dissociative tendencies, and eventual breakdown of relationships. He emphasizes the painful effects of communities putting a premium on shame and secrecy not only on an individual, but also on the children and families involved and hopes more people may then see that there is growth and healing to be found by simply listening to understand.

Connect with Motti:

Website: Mordechai Salzberg, LCSW

Email: msalzberg@mordechaisalzberg.com

LinkedIn: Motti Salzberg

Mentioned in this podcast:

Motti’s episode on Hope to Recharge: https://hopetorecharge.com/episode/the-fatal-price-of-sexual-shame-and-secrecy-mordechai-salzberg/

Recommended Read: Judaism and Homosexuality: An Authentic Orthodox View, Rabbi Chaim Rappaport: https://www.amazon.com/Judaism-Homosexuality-Authentic-Orthodox-View/dp/0853034524

For sources in Halacha and Tanach that discuss Toayvah, please reach out to us via email: listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link...

Rabbi Johnny Solomon, a virtual rabbi based in Israel, delves into the depths of the concept of Emuna (faith) and addresses common misconceptions of Emuna, particularly during challenging times.

Sharing insights from his personal journey, he emphasized the crucial role of individualized religious guidance. Topics include challenging the commandments, how a combination of humility and unwavering faith can serve as a compass, even when complete understanding remains elusive and the potential harm arising from overly simplistic or misguided interpretations of sacred principles.

The fluidity of Jewish Law and encouraging a nuanced understanding of Emuna, allows for a balanced approach.

Not everything may be fully comprehended, aligns with the essence of Emuna, which involves a journey of continuous exploration and growth.

Mentioned in this podcast:

Harav Aharon Lichtenstein's beautiful essay on "Bitachon"

Connect with Rabbi Johnny Solomon:

Website: https://rabbijohnnysolomon.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnysolomon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virtualrabbi/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVgVx-DfUa_0eT0ntNqESvA/videos

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the WhatsApp community for the Listening to Understand podcast, where we will share information about episodes and topics discussed on the podcast. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Comments or Suggestions? 

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Addressing the sensitive and multifaceted topic of Tzniut/Tznius (modesty) within the Orthodox Jewish community, Matana sits down with Bracha Poliakoff, Co author of the "Reclaiming dignity" - a guide for Tzniut/Tznius for men and women. 

Bracha highlights personal experiences, communal norms, and Halakhic interpretations and the challenges that arise from the complexity of the subject, differing opinions, and the need to address a potentially polarizing topic. 

She relies on Halakhic sources, and presents a broad spectrum of voices and provides a nuanced and thoughtful exploration of Tznius, encouraging understanding and unity within the diverse Jewish community

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.

Connect with Bracha:

Website:

https://www.reclaimingdignity.com

Amazon Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Reclaiming-Dignity-guide-Tzniut-Women/dp/1957579463

Instagram: 

@reclaimingdignity

https://www.instagram.com/reclaimingdignity/ 

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the WhatsApp community for the Listening to Understand podcast, where we will share information about episodes and topics discussed on the podcast. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Comments or Suggestions? 

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

In today's episode, we learn what Listening to Understanding really means and the power it holds in our relationships and conversations. "Listening to Understand" goes beyond the surface of hearing words; it's about truly grasping the emotions, perspectives, and nuances behind the messages we receive. Join us as we explore practical tips, real-life stories, and expert insights that illuminate the path to becoming better listeners. Whether you're looking to enhance your communication skills, strengthen personal relationships, or foster a culture of empathy, this episode is your guide to unlocking the profound impact of intentional and empathetic listening. So, tune in, lean in, and let's embark on this meaningful journey together.

Our expert guest Igor Meystelman, a Lawyer and Certified Imago Facilitator will help us to deepen our understanding of this topic. He brings his years of expertise being a therapist.

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.

Connect with Igor:

Website: https://www.relationshipreimagined.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igor-meystelman-8b114525/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationship_reimagined/

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the WhatsApp community for the Listening to Understand podcast, where we will share information about episodes and topics discussed on the podcast. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Comments or Suggestions? 

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Matana introduces "Listening to Understand," a podcast that opens dialog on Jewish sensitive topics and issues in the Jewish home. Matana shares her journey of questioning and the realization of the need for a space to address topics and cultural practices many consider taboo.

In an effort to foster empathy, encourage difficult conversations, and challenge societal norms, Matana, along with collaborators, address the importance of listening, to create a more accepting and compassionate world.

Who is this show for? Listening to Understand is created for sensitive Jewish truth-seekers to 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.

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the WhatsApp community for the Listening to Understand podcast, where we will share information about episodes and topics discussed on the podcast. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Comments or Suggestions? 

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

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.

Connect with Rob:

https://www.robmor.com

@iamrobmor

@echoesoflossdoc 

Youtube: Echoes of Loss: Eight Days in Israel

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the Listening to Understand WhatsApp community, where we share exclusive information about episodes and topics discussed on the show. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Comments or Suggestions?

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Sponsored by:

SwagMyGear.com

Get your custom printed & promotional logo Tees, hoodies, hats, swag, and other gear, great for Bar & Bat Mitzvas, business& corporate, family gatherings & events, all printed with your logo or message.

Get $55.00 off your order today with coupon code MATANA

Maxifyz.com

Maxifyz.com provides doctor formulated, lab certified, USA grown high quality CBD oils, tinctures and 100% legal Hemp products to reduce anxiety and stress, provide muscle relaxation and help to get a better night’s sleep.

Get 10% off your order plus free shipping with coupon code HOPE

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.

Connect with Meir:

https://meirkay.com/

Join us on Whatsapp:

Click the link below to join the Listening to Understand WhatsApp community, where we share exclusive information about episodes and topics discussed on the show. Join the conversation that ONLY happens here⬇️

https://chat.whatsapp.com/G9t7fDac0wrB4FZsKtyYk4

Listen to us:

Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ux5OupXGRTNLgJVttpcF1?si=lIL8nhOFTsuxiGP-QGy_TA

Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/listening-to-understand/id1729038630

Comments or Suggestions?

We’d love to hear from you:

listeningtounderstandshow@gmail.com

Sponsored by:

SwagMyGear.com

Get your custom printed & promotional logo Tees, hoodies, hats, swag, and other gear, great for Bar & Bat Mitzvas, business& corporate, family gatherings & events, all printed with your logo or message.

Get $55.00 off your order today with coupon code MATANA

Maxifyz.com