Explore every episode of the podcast Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 116 - Hi-Torah-Deedo, Neighborino | 23 sept. 2026 | 00:42:45 | |
September 23, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 116 - Hi-Torah-Deedo, Neighorino In this episode, Ethan has us take a look back at Homer’s good-hearted next-door neighbor, Ned Flanders, and the surprising change he experienced under our very eyes. Okily dokily, we know he’s super friendly and over nice, but did you know that he wasn’t always so… Flanders-y? We’ve seen other characters face this over-dramatization of their personalities, but have we experienced it in Judaism? Well, gosh-diddly-darn-it. Put on your best green sweater and join us, won’t you neighborino? Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-116-hi-torah-deedo-neighborino Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 115 - Spider-Man: Brand Jew Day | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:55:11 | |
September 09, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 115 - Spiderman: Brand Jew Day Barak seems to have a lot of issues with the newest Spider-Man movie. Maybe he shouldn’t have spent so much time thinking about it by himself. We’re social creatures and shouldn’t be isolated. It’s not good to be alone and who we are is shaped by the people around us. Ohh… I see, just like Spider-Man, right? He was alone, too. Jews don’t think people should be isolated and alone. Will Spider-Man learn his lesson? Or was this movie just a stepping stone for a different franchise? Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-115-spider-man-brand-jew-day Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 114 - Project Hail Neighbor | 26 août 2026 | 00:42:21 | |
August 26, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 114 - Project Hail Neighbor In this episode, RDY helps us travel across the stars as we discuss Project Hail Mary (mostly the movie, but a little of the book as well). We explore the unexpected relationship at the heart of the story between Ryan Gosling’s astronaut, Grace, and his surprise neighbor, Rocky. What begins with two strangers who can’t even communicate, turns into a story of curiosity, trust, and figuring out just how far you’re willing to go for someone else. It’s a story of doing something nice for someone else, and learning that a good neighbor is someone who is willing to watch you sleep. Amaze. Amaze. Amaze. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-114-project-hail-neighbor Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 113 - As Jew Wish ...With Special Guest Joel Swedlove | 12 août 2026 | 00:40:43 | |
August 12, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 113 - As Jew Wish …With Special Guest Joel Swedlove If you’re not feeling well, you should curl up to this nice podcast (in my day, they were called books)! We adventure into the topic of gemilut chasadim, which are acts of loving kindness. Whether you visit the sick to read them a story or fetch a pitcher for them, these acts can really show someone that you love them. And when you find that love, twue wuv, that’s something worth fighting for! So, if you ask us to do an act of kindness for you? Of course. As you wish. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-113-as-jew-wish Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 112 - But That's How We've Always Played ...With Guest Host Lexi Kohanski | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:42:03 | |
July 29, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 112 - But That's How We've Always Played ...With Guest Host Lexi Kohanski Judaism's history and laws have been passed down through the generations. In the earliest days, this was passed down by word of mouth until it was written down. How do we know which rules and laws we should follow or change? Should we? Our guest host, Lexi Kohanski, joins us as we realize that it's exactly that kind of thinking that gets us things like Monopoly's "free parking jackpot" of the more recent "usage dice" in Dungeons & Dragons. Did we make these rules up? And if we did, is that really so bad? Share this episode with a friend: Lexi Kohanski - lexi@thetorahstudio.org Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com | |||
| Episode 111 - Feeling TORn | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:38:32 | |
July 15, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 111 - Feeling TORn Ethan was saddened by news that was shared recently that hit close to home for him and it got us thinking about how we react when things that we love change. When temples change homes, when programs alter and they are not what we remember, when we fear our childhood memories won’t be shared by the next generation. And, yeah of course, we talk about some nerdy stuff too. Nerd stuff changes all the time, and that’s also a bummer. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-111-feeling-torn Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 110 - Again and Again and Amen | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:46:14 | |
July 1, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 110 - Again and Again and Amen In this episode, RDY guides us on the topic of liturgy. These are the familiar prayers and words that guide our worship services and we talk about why we return to them again and again. You know the lines, you know what comes next, and yet, you keep coming back. Because sometimes, the words, the songs, and the emotional moments are worth experiencing again and again. Repeat? Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-110-again-and-again-and-amen Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 109 - The Next Generation Remembers ...With Guest Host Lou Feldstein | 17 juin 2026 | 00:43:50 | |
June 17, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 109 - The Next Generation Remembers …With Guest Host Lou Feldstein In this episode, our guest host Lou Feldstein reminds us of his favorite episode of ST:TNG titled “The Inner Light” in which Captain Picard finds himself settled on a strange planet with a name and life unknown to him. He shows us, over the span of decades, that it’s not always about the life that you lead, but that sometimes it’s important to reflect on the lives that are lived by others. Oh, and RDY thinks Lou has the exact perfect voice for himself. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-109-the-next-generation-remembers Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 108 - Yesh, And! | 03 juin 2026 | 00:41:11 | |
June 3, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 108 - Yesh, And! In this episode, RDY helps us explore the world of Jewish folktales and the surprisingly familiar rules that have guided storytellers for generations. With unique characters and surprising stories, we learn that listening to each other and embracing the unexpected is what makes the stories so great! After all, every good story starts when someone accepts the premise and asks, “what happens next?” Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-108-yesh-and
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| Episode 107 - 4th Anniversary Special: Welcome to Chelm | 20 mai 2026 | 01:24:14 | |
May 20, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 107 - 4th Anniversary Special - Welcome to Chelm A brand-new group of adventurers come across a strange village in the middle of the woods: the land of Chelm. The town is facing a terrible problem: a dangerous monster is stealing townsfolk and scaring away the stars. Can our heroes solve Chelm’s many urgent problems before the sun sets and the monster returns once more? Can they place all the cakes on top of the bakery roof? Can they find the proper hats for all the lamp posts? Have you ever heard such ridiculous questions asked? You can expect even more ridiculousness, because in this town and this podcast, everything makes sense. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-107-welcome-to-chelm Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. Character Information: S.A.M (played by Ethan Lane-Miller) - 5’6’’ Silver and Metallic Robot Fungle, Friend of the Many Teeth (played by RDY) - Goblin Druid Pella (played by Rabbi Emma Gottlieb) - A 7 ft Loxodon with Light Gray Skin, a Silvery Sheen, and Accents of Pink. Oysher (played by Cantor Ross Wolman) An Elf Bard, “babe.” Dungeon Master (Barak Malkin) Narrator, Ruleskeeper, and Every Resident of Chelm. | |||
| Episode 106 - Mislabeled Things ...With Guest Host Micol Zimmerman | 06 mai 2026 | 01:00:00 | |
May 6, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 106 - Mislabeled Things ...With Guest Host Micol Zimmerman In this episode, we’re joined by guest host, Micol Zimmerman, who promises a fun smash for Stranger Things. Really, she came on to talk about Stranger Things and so we absolutely talk about Stranger Things. No secret motive or hidden agenda. Hey, speaking of Stranger Things, do you wanna talk about the latest season? How about that ending?! Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-106-mislabeled-things Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 105 - Pokemon: Blue and White | 22 avr. 2026 | 00:41:33 | |
April 22, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 105 - Pokemon: Blue and White Good Eevee-ning, pokemon fans. In this episode, we catch all the connections between Pokemon FireRed and LeafGreen. Some of them may be a bit Onix-pected, but we’re sure you’ll enjoy it as much as a Magikarp-et ride. You should have no Fearow about our conversation, because we Exeggcute this episode perfectly. If you weren’t a fan before, this will Seel the deal. You won’t believe what comes out of our Meowths. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-105-pokemon-blue-and-white
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| Episode 104 - Captain Gideon | 08 avr. 2026 | 00:35:51 | |
April 8, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 104 - Captain Gideon In this episode, we dive into the book of Judges and the unlikely rise of a hesitant leader called to something greater. Gideon struggles and doubts himself with taking on the mantle of leadership, but he gets the courage to step up and lead. We explore this ancient story of courage and transformation and the marvel superhero whose character faces similar doubts about leadership and who shares a strategic mindset. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-104-Captain-Gideon
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| Episode 103 - Wonder-Name | 25 mars 2026 | 00:39:06 | |
March 25, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 103 - Wonder-Name What’s in a name? In this episode, we explore the story from Genesis when Jacob’s name is changed to Israel. We look at a recent superhero show in which the characters discover new versions of themselves, and that is often accompanied by some new type of recognition. From the stories of our ancestors to the stories of today’s superheroes, we explore how these groundbreaking moments in our lives define us. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-103-Wonder-Name Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 102 - SMASHBALLS: The Podcast | 11 mars 2026 | 00:35:47 | |
March 11, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 102 - SMASHBALLS: The Podcast The story of Purim is often told as a parody. A tongue-in-cheek retelling of survival. But is the original story that great to begin with? This episode is a great one for your father’s brother’s nephew’s cousin’s former roommate! It’s not a great podcast episode, or even a spectacular podcast episode, please please… it’s just a plain old podcast episode. But the kids love this one. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-smashballs-the-podcast Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 101 - TS101 A Lesson in Basics | 25 févr. 2026 | 00:52:08 | |
February 25, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 101 - TS101 A Lesson in Basics In our 101st episode, we go back to the fundamentals, the level 101 we need to know about Judaism. Are there really only ten commandments? What rules do we have to know for Star Trek? What are the lessons we need to know for board games? What are the basics when it comes to comic books? You should explore new ideas and hobbies, but before you do you'll need to know the core rules. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-101-ts101-a-lesson-in-basics
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| Episode 100 - Opening Our Time Capsule | 11 févr. 2026 | 00:40:50 | |
February 11, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 100 - Opening Our Time Capsule Listen to what we found! Before we ever recorded our first episode, the three of us got together to test the audio. That footage was never released to the public… until now! Listen to us predict the future… I mean our present… from the past, but also about multiverse timelines. It’s not that confusing, we promise. We talk about the guests we hoped to have, the topics we thought we would cover, and our predictions for some of the more popular nerd franchises. Some of them were spot on! Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning, or joined us more recently, thank you for being part of our journey! This episode is for you. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-100-opening-our-time-capsule
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| Episode 99 - The Torah League | 28 janv. 2026 | 00:35:00 | |
January 28, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 99 - The Torah League In this episode, we explore why the heroes from the Torah always seem to be told as a solo story. They have friends don’t they? Are they really the only “super” people at that time? As we contemplate and wish that someone would yell “assemble” we try and identify the groups of heroes from the Torah. We also decide which Torah heroes would be part of our Jewish Super Friends group. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-99-the-torah-league Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 98 - Something Phishy ...With Special Guests Rabbi Benjamin David, Rabbi Eric Linder, Rabbi Stephen Wise | 14 janv. 2026 | 00:48:38 | |
January 14, 2026 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 98 - Something Phishy… With Special Guests Rabbi Benjamin David, Rabbi Eric Linder, Rabbi Stephen Wise In this episode, we’re join by not one phish, not two phish, three phish (jew phish) guests! We dive into the world of the band Phish and the one-of-a-kind community that has grown around the band. Phrom the music to the culture, we explore what makes the Phish phandom so devoted, so joyphul, and so unlike any other phan base. We also reflect on what it means to belong to something bigger than yourselph and how community can turn concerts into connections. It’s also loaded with so many phish jokes, so there’s that. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-98-something-phishy Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 97 - Ted Blessings | 31 déc. 2025 | 00:42:33 | |
December 31, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 97 - Ted Blessings It should be said: Fun is serious business. In this episode, we look at the comedy and heart-filled series, Ted Lasso. We discuss the title character’s impact on the world around him and the Jewish practice that he may be unknowingly doing regularly. From character growth to internal gratitude, this episode is a nice reminder to slow down, recognize the good that surrounds you, and maybe say thank you a little more often. And we hope you do, because this episode is filled with sports ball jokes. So, you’ve been warned. Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-97-ted-blessings
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| Episode 96 - Not Alone for Hallmark Hanukkah…With Special Guest Tamar Laddy | 17 déc. 2025 | 00:43:48 | |
December 17, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 96 - Not Alone for Hallmark Hanukkah…With Special Guest Tamar Laddy In this episode, we’re joined by special guest, Tamar Laddy, who helps us better view the less frequently made Hanukkah Hallmark movies. We explore assimilation, belonging, and choosing to stand out instead of blend in. And then, we do that again and again and again. Not because it’s a time loop, but because we loved this conversation! 00:03:38 Exodus 12:49 00:05:22 Jewish or Nerdy Cultural Assimilation 00:07:06 Unapologetically Jewish 00:09:50 Time Traveling Comic Book Nerds 00:11:48 When do we assimilate and when do we choose to be outwardly Jewish? 00:18:30 Jewish Hallmark Movies 00:19:49 Rudolph: The first Jewish superhero 00:21:12 That old joke about a tie shop 00:22:13 The Stranger in a Land of Hallmark Movies 00:25:21 Jews and Nerds together 00:26:23 A peek behind the scenes 00:32:26 Time Loop Movies 00:35:01 Are Jewish movies popular yet? Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-96-not-alone-for-hallmark-hanukkah Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 95 - MagicHeart | 03 déc. 2025 | 00:43:39 | |
December 3, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 95 - MagicHeart The Torah says they no sorceress shall live, but what is its take on scientists? In this episode, we explore the tension between magic and science and the thin line that can exist between our understanding of both. Using a certain marvel metal hero, we dive into what counts as “magic” in the first place. From Shabbat science to Pharoah’s magicians, we examine faith’s role in magic and that sometimes the strongest force in the world isn’t magic or tech… it’s heart. 00:00:43 Exodus 22:17 00:06:55 Ironheart 00:08:50 The tension between magic and mythology 00:11:06 The science that’s allowed on Shabbat 00:15:39 Defining magic in Jewish text 00:20:44 Decisions around death 00:27:46 Rir’s decisions with science and magic 00:30:45 Sorceresses in Talmud and Firefly 00:33:46 The Pharaoh's sorcerors 00:37:40 Favorite moments from Ironheart Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-95-magicheart Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 94 - The Cube of Babel ...With Guest Host Cantor Ross Wolman | 19 nov. 2025 | 00:42:22 | |
November 19, 2025 | |||
| Episode 93 - Um, Actually | 05 nov. 2025 | 00:36:36 | |
November 5, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 93 - Um, Actually With a world of fun facts all around us, we all sometimes get the irresistible urge to push up our glasses, tap that person on the shoulder, and say, “Um, actually…” In this week’s episode, we correct each other while reading Proverbs 16:16. We explore the differences between knowledge and wisdom, but you know that already. We debate when education turns toxic, which you already know. And why not everyone wants to hear your favorite obscure fact, except yours though. Your trivial knowledge is important though, we know that. In fact, you may not even learn anything new from this episode, but it couldn’t hurt to check it out just in case. 00:01:13 The new vibe 00:02:12 Proverbs 16:16 00:04:56 Trivia 00:06:15 Well, Actually 00:10:33 Other people don’t care about it as much as you 00:14:38 The line between education and toxic 00:18:43 Correcting in Judaism 00:21:43 Knowledge and Wisdom 00:29:01 Favorite Facts 00:32:53 Pub Trivia Team Names Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-93-um-actually Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 92 - Huntrix, Honmoon, and Holy Scrolls | 22 oct. 2025 | 00:46:38 | |
October 22, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 92 - Huntrix, Honmoon, and Holy Scrolls This episode takes us to the Honmoon protected world of the K-Pop Demon Hunters movie. We explore the protection spell cast by Huntrix and find similarities with Jewish cultural symbols that could possibly have the same effect? We discuss what it means to create a barrier that keeps something out and what does that also then keep contained inside? Turns out physical and spiritual boundaries can shield us from the darkness, if you know what the blessings sound like. 00:00:38 K-Pop Demon Hunters phenomenon 00:02:13 Initial thoughts 00:05:07 The mezuzah and its customs 00:14:51 Is the Honmoon a mezuzah? 00:21:17 Demon hunting 00:22:38 Unique mezuzot 00:30:19 Soul created mezuzah 00:32:07 Other Jewish culture protection items 00:36:27 Other notes from K-Pop Demon Hunters Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-92-huntrix-honmoon-and-holy-scrolls Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 91 - Not Heroes. Not Alone. ...With Guest Host Rabbi Emma Gottlieb | 08 oct. 2025 | 00:38:11 | |
October 8, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 91 - Not Heroes. Not Alone. Psalm 23 talks about walking through the shadow of death. Let’s walk into it together. In this episode, we dive into one of the newer Marvel movies to hit the big screen through the lens of one of the most popular Psalm versus. We explore fear, trust, and the power of being alone. But the people who will guide us through this conversation are not heroes… far from it. 00:03:06 Psalm 23 00:06:11 The Thunderbolts 00:09:12 The pros and cons of being alone 00:17:37 The psalms are meant to give comfort 00:22:29 Who is You? 00:25:04 Not Giving Up 00:29:38 Heroes in our Sukkah 00:34:26 Favorite parts of The Thunderbolts Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-91-not-heroes-not-alone Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 90 - Brave New Mindset | 25 sept. 2025 | 00:34:58 | |
September 25, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 90 - Brave New Mindset As we reflect during this High Holy Day season, we’re diving into the Jewish concept of teshuva—turning, returning, and transforming. What does it mean to change, to repair, and to not be wholly defined by your past? In this episode, we look at some truly marvelous characters wrestling with their pasts and the people they want to become. Along the way, we’ll apologize, we’ll grow, and then—depending on our emotions—we may grow just a little bit more. 00:00:40 Teshuva 00:04:24 Captain America: Brave New World 00:11:33 Changes to character 00:16:28 Apologizing 00:19:21 Final Battle Debate 00:26:08 Don’t be defined by your past Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-90-brave-new-mindset
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| Episode 89 - Fantastic Four: First Tests | 10 sept. 2025 | 00:39:05 | |
September 10, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 89 - Fantastic Four: First Tests Finally, there was pretty strong Jewish representation in a Marvel movie! In this episode, we venture through Marvel’s newest movie, Fantastic Four: First Steps, with a look at this tale of sacrifice, testing, and trust. From cosmic children with unimaginable power to the silence of those around them, we explore how stories can sometimes wrestle with what it means to be called to give up what matters most. 00:01:34 Fantastic Four: First Steps Recap 00:02:36 Akedah - The binding of Isaac 00:07:21 Responding to the call for a sacrifice 00:10:49 An absolutely fantastic movie 00:11:24 Let’s look at who’s not talking now 00:13:57 Not Nathaniel, but Franklin, is all powerful 00:15:34 Silver Surfer as a Herald 00:17:43 Tests and Choices 00:20:13 Marvel’s Movie Judaism 00:31:06 Other movie nods Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-89-fantastic-four-first-tests
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| Episode 88 - The Game Over People | 27 août 2025 | 00:40:35 | |
August 27, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 88 - The Game Over People In video games, a “game over” isn’t the end, it’s just another chance to start again. In this episode, we explore how failing, restarting, and building resilience are just as much a part of Jewish life as they are of gaming culture. From gratitude and kindness to perseverance and play, we unpack what it means to keep going even after listing a level (or three). After all, sometimes the best prize of winning is the fun we had along the way. 00:00:58 Hiring Video Gamers 00:04:11 Game over levels of Jewish stories 00:08:11 Resilience is gratitude and kindness 00:12:31 The book of Ruth 00:15:38 Other video game qualities 00:24:04 Other game over moments 00:31:48 Win or Lose or Have Fun 00:35:07 Pass the Parcel Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-88-the-game-over-people
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| Episode 87 - Clone Force Kilayim | 12 août 2025 | 00:39:19 | |
August 13, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 87 - Clone Force Kilayim Let’s talk genetics. Yes, let’s talk genetics. Is there an echo in here? Yes, there is now. In this episode, we take a closer look at Kilayim, the Torah’s prohibition against mixing species. We inspect it and how it shows up in a tale from a long, long time ago, of a squad of soldiers unlike any other. What does Jewish tradition say about rewriting the building blocks of life? What happens when fictional characters are made in a way they didn’t choose? What about real people? And how do asian pears fit into all of this? 00:01:32 Kilayim 00:05:03 Star Wars The Bad Batch 00:07:05 Human Cloning and Gene Editing 00:10:27 Perspective - Gift or a Defect 00:14:54 Genetic Engineering 00:21:25 The grey line 00:33:20 Science Fiction and Genetics Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-87-clone-force-kilayim Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 86 - Pirkei Avigilante | 30 juil. 2025 | 00:47:11 | |
July 30, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 86 - Pirkei Avigilante Time to suit up as we take a daring dive into Pirkei Avot 1:10. From the streets to the courtroom, we unpack some of the tensions between working within the system or outside of it. We also discuss a certain red vigilante’s path and how it sometimes struggles when faced by its towering opposing force. If this topic gets too heated, it may be time you left the streets of the kitchen. 00:01:46 Pirkei Avot 1:10 00:05:42 Daredevil: Born Again 00:14:02 A little too real 00:21:17 Out of Character Arc 00:25:15 Season Two Predictions 00:30:36 The System or the Leader 00:34:30 Barak’s biggest issue with the ending 00:38:47 Pirkei Avot 1:11 00:44:27 The Safe Streets Initiative Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-86-pirkei-avigilante
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| Episode 85 - Worse Than Leprosy | 16 juil. 2025 | 00:28:27 | |
July 16, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 85 - Worse Than Leprosy This week, we look at what may possibly be the least favorite torah portion: parsha metzorah. It’s tedious, it’s a bit gross, and spoiler alert - it’s not even about leprosy! We clean up our act and take a look at why the portion has such a bad rap. What other Jewish texts are disliked? Can we discover why this bad writing has survived so long into today’s world? We all know stories that we don’t like, but we’d honestly just rather forget they exist. At least, meesuh thinks so. 00:00:42 The Torah portion with the worst reputation 00:02:24 Inspired by a stretch of “meh” movies 00:09:28 It’s not even leprosy 00:11:55 Other least favorite Jewish texts 00:14:40 Let’s just get rid of the bad stories 00:17:03 Dealing with bad stories 00:21:41 Our favorite worst movies Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-85-worse-than-leprosy Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 84 - Pixar's Paradigm Shift | 02 juil. 2025 | 00:38:32 | |
July 2, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 84 - Pixar’s Paradigm Shift In this episode, we explore the theory that suggests that all Pixar films exist within a single shared universe. Or perhaps they don’t and they’re just individually made entertaining movies. Or maybe the director once knew someone named Andy and liked the way he treated his toys. We’ll discuss how literal or interpretive we believe the Pixar universe to be and we dig into some other pop culture conspiracy theories. We’ll learn that Pixar may not just be about talking toys, but about a mystical cycle of life, technology, and evolution… Oh wait, my power is low... let me just quickly grab some new Buy N Large batteries… 00:00:38 The Pixar Theory 00:02:52 P.A.R.D.E.S. 00:06:34 Our interpretation of Jewish texts 00:10:02 Explaining the Pixar Theory 00:16:44 Pixar gets the Pardes treatment 00:24:51 Other pop-culture conspiracy theories 00:31:03 An original romantic conspiracy theory 00:32:50 Favorite Pixar Movies 00:35:46 Pixar Purist Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-84-pixars-paradigm-shift Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 83 - Monsters and Angels ...With Special Guest The Wayward Children Podcast | 18 juin 2025 | 00:52:48 | |
June 18, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 83 - Monsters and Angels Remember the story in the Tanakh about flaming serpents? What about the one about unicorns? This week, the mystical co-hosts of Wayward Children: Jewish Monsters, Magic, and the Stories We Tell help us summon the wild, weird, and fantastical creatures hiding in the pages of Torah. We explore the line between monsters and angels. Honestly, we didn’t know we could fit this many Jewish creatures into one episode. We also learn if Falcor has Jewish origins. 00:04:58 Numbers 21:6-8 Flaming, Flying Snakes 00:09:52 D&D converted me a Judaism 00:10:56 Finding mystical and mythological creatures in Jewish lore 00:14:27 The seraph - flaming snakes or flying angels? 00:19:12 Unicorns 00:23:24 Monster angels, cherub angels, and messenger angels 00:33:21 Too many monsters, too little time 00:39:07 Favorite monster or creature from the Torah Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-83-monsters-and-angels Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. Listen to John and Jack on their podcast - Wayward Children:Jewish Monsters, Magic, and the Stories We Tell https://waywardchildren.buzzsprout.com/ Collectible Jewish Monsters and Magic Cards - https://madnessheart.press/product/collectable-jewish-monsters-and-magic-cards/?v=0b3b97fa6688 Treif Magic - https://madnessheart.press/product/treif-magic/?v=0b3b97fa6688 Dybbuk in the Doorway - https://www.amazon.com/Dybbuk-Doorway-John-Baltisberger/dp/B0F7XVKBRQ | |||
| Episode 82 - This Andor That | 04 juin 2025 | 00:44:57 | |
June 4, 2025 Torah Smash! The Podcast for Nerdy Jews Episode 82 - This Andor That In this episode, Ethan guides us on a conversation to a galaxy far, far away to explore the rich themes and surprising Jewish connections within Andor, the newest series in the Star Wars universe. We dive into the blurred lines between science fiction and our own realities, we explore the sacrifices made in the name of hope, and we ask the question no one else dares: Is Syril’s mom Jewish? Put on your nicest Ghorman threads and tune in as we unpack this story of resistance, sacrifice, and hope. 00:00:41 I have friends everywhere 00:02:42 Erev Andor 00:04:11 Pulling on all the threads (of Ghorman?) 00:05:48 Almost to the Promised Land 00:11:43 Sacrifice for loss or gain 00:16:02 The robot that made us happy 00:16:38 Next year… 00:19:16 The fictional reality of science fiction 00:27:01 What kind of mother? 00:32:20 Cinta and Vel 00:33:48 Fate and Force 00:39:35 The greatest thing Star Wars has ever done? Share this episode with a friend: https://www.torahsmash.com/post/episode-82-this-andor-that Connect with us online, purchase swag, support us with a donation, and more at www.torahsmash.com. | |||
| Episode 81 - 3rd Anniversary Special: Dungeons & Dreidels | 21 mai 2025 | 02:29:49 | |
May 21, 2025 | |||
| Episode 80 - Putting the Pieces Together | 07 mai 2025 | 00:48:35 | |
May 7, 2025 | |||
| Episode 79 - Let's Get Together: Live in Austin! | 23 avr. 2025 | 01:09:49 | |
April 23, 2025 | |||
| Episode 78 - New Games, Old Wisdom | 09 avr. 2025 | 00:35:10 | |
April 9, 2025 | |||
| Episode 77 - God Plans, Man Laughs | 26 mars 2025 | 00:39:03 | |
March 26, 2025 | |||
| Episode 76 - Separating the Nerdy from the Mundane | 12 mars 2025 | 00:39:34 | |
March 12, 2025 | |||
| Episode 75 - Shabbat: There's A Nap For That | 26 févr. 2025 | 00:41:54 | |
February 26, 2025 00:00:37 Torah Smash! Live! Coming to Austin, March 2025 | |||
| Episode 74 - JudAIsm ...With Special Guest Rabbi Josh Fixler | 12 févr. 2025 | 00:54:29 | |
February 12, 2025 | |||
| Episode 73 - Kosher or Not Kosher? | 29 janv. 2025 | 00:44:15 | |
January 29, 2025 | |||
| Episode 72 - Leviticus All Along ...With Special Guest Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner | 15 janv. 2025 | 00:49:03 | |
January 15, 2025 | |||
| Episode 71 - The Wheel of New Years | 01 janv. 2025 | 00:46:47 | |
January 1, 2025 | |||
| Episode 70 - Torah Smash Jr. | 18 déc. 2024 | 00:38:29 | |
December 18, 2024 | |||
| Episode 69 - Die Hard Is A Chanukah Movie ...With Special Guest Arnon Shorr | 04 déc. 2024 | 00:47:06 | |
December 4, 2024 | |||
| Episode 68 - Super Mitzvot Bros. ...With Special Guest Sparkle Peters | 20 nov. 2024 | 00:46:04 | |
November 20, 2024 | |||
| Episode 67 - Grief, Loss, and Lifesabers | 06 nov. 2024 | 00:51:47 | |
November 6, 2024 | |||