What does it actually look like to live Judaism in today’s world?

And what does it mean to be part of a collective when we have so many different worldviews, orientations, and perspectives?

In this episode, Samantha Vinokor-Meinrath and Cantor Laura Stein explore this question through the lens of practical theology, or looking at how religion is lived, especially when paired with modern reality.

As a PhD candidate in practical theology at Boston University, Cantor Stein and Samantha discuss her research in the psychology of religion, burnout for educators and clergy, turning struggle into growth, and moving through the world with our Jewish values.

This episode is perfect for anyone who has ever felt both deeply connected to their Jewish community and at odds with it, and is searching for a more authentic way to belong.

Learn more about The Jewish Education Project at jewishedproject.org

This episode was produced by Miranda Lapides and Dina Nusnbaum. The show’s executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben.

This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media.

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York.

Send us Fan Mail

In an urgent episode following the recent attack at Temple Israel in Michigan, David Bryfman sits down with Daniel Held, Chief Program Officer of United Jewish Appeal of Greater Toronto, whose community has also faced recent antisemitic threats and attacks.

Daniel offers perspective and hope during this challenging time, sharing how educators and parents can help raise Jewish children who are proud, knowledgeable, and empowered, even in the face of hate.

The pair explore how difficult this important work is, the surge in participation in Jewish life during this moment, and how to address heavy questions from children like, “Why does everyone hate us?” Finally, they address what educators need right now, from thinking about security to developing the resilience required to support students and build a better Jewish future.

Learn more about The Jewish Education Project at jewishedproject.org

This episode was produced by Miranda Lapides and Dina Nusnbaum. The show’s executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben.

This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media.

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York.

Send a text

Mister Rogers famously said that in scary times, look for the helpers. But what happens when the helpers themselves are exhausted?

This week, host Samantha Vinokor-Meinrath sits down with certified coach, facilitator, and speaker Shoshana Bloom for what she calls a “love letter to Jewish educators.” Together, they explore some of the immense pressures educators are facing today: burnout, overwhelm, imposter syndrome, and chronic stress.

In a moment of polarization, new technology, and when Jewish educators are being asked to do more than ever, this episode asks an essential question: If educators are the helpers, how can the community better support them?

Learn more about The Jewish Education Project at jewishedproject.org

This episode was produced by Miranda Lapides and Dina Nusnbaum. The show’s executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben.

This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media.

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York.

Send a text

Send a text