In an era of digital distraction, how do we pass our deepest values to the next generation? Discover how to move beyond "dumbing things down" and instead invite children into a lifelong journey of curiosity, complexity, and growth?

Rabbi Effy Unterman is the Senior Director of Content at the Hadar Institute and a pioneer in sophisticated Jewish education. He is the lead developer of the new Devash Jr. edition of Shemot (Exodus), a groundbreaking resource designed to engage the youngest learners with serious ideas, and serves as a primary architect of Devash—the global Torah magazine for families.

As the Jewish calendar moves into the Book of Exodus (Shemot), we confront the challenge of "transmission." This episode explores the Jewish concept that children are not just "future" members of a community, but active, serious thinkers today. By focusing on the "70 faces" of wisdom, Rabbi Unterman explains why there is rarely only one right answer, but rather a beautiful tapestry of perspectives that invites everyone to find their own voice.

Key Takeaways

• Complexity Over Simplification: why children are capable of handling deep, nuanced ideas when we respect their intellect.
• The Power of the Question: How to shift from a "quiz" mindset (seeking answers) to a "scavenger hunt" mindset (cultivating curiosity).
• Inclusive Storytelling: The vital importance of creating materials where every child can see themselves reflected in the narrative.

Connect & Follow

• Watch other episodes of Jewish Insights with Justin Pines: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDYxKuIDCjn0TWM937-7qQf9w6JGmCWGX
• Subscribe to Devash Magazine: https://hadar.org/learn/children-families
• Get the Devash Jr. Book (Shemot): https://www.hadar.org/torah-tefillah/books/devash-jr-book-shemot
• Follow Justin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinpines/

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In a world of constant stress and uncertainty, how do we build a life of purpose and emotional stability? Discover how a former combat commander uses ancient wisdom to build modern resilience and unbreakable character.

Rabbi Binny Freedman is the Rosh Yeshiva of Orayta in Jerusalem and a former Company Commander in the IDF. Having survived the 2001 Sbarro bombing, Rabbi Binny’s teachings on gratitude and leadership aren't just theoretical—they are battle-tested insights from a man who has navigated the extremes of human experience.

We often view "ethics" as a set of rules, but the Jewish concept of Middot (character traits) is actually a technology for habit-forming. Using the "Maimonides Method," Rabbi Binny explains how to build a "healthy soul" through intentional repetition—turning positive actions into second nature so you can remain balanced even in high-pressure environments.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Proactive Giving: Why shifting from a "rights-based" to an "obligations-based" mindset is the ultimate antidote to modern anxiety.

• The Science of Habit: How to use intentional repetition to overwrite negative behaviors and build lasting inner strength.

• Willpower as a Muscle: Why setting personal boundaries and ethical "restrictions" actually creates the freedom to succeed in professional and personal life.

Connect & Follow

Watch Additional Episodes of Jewish Insights: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDYxKuIDCjn0TWM937-7qQf9w6JGmCWGX

Follow Justin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinpines/

Follow JBS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbstvorg/

#Leadership #Wisdom #JewishInsights #Mindset #JustinPines #Resilience #CharacterBuilding #PersonalGrowth

We think we know the story of Hanukkah: The weak few against the mighty many, the oil that lasted eight days. But the historical records tell a much wilder, deeper, and more miraculous story.

In Part 2 of this special Hanukkah series on Jewish Insights, Dr. Malka Simkovich returns to reveal the "real" story of the Maccabean revolt. From the "passive-aggressive" letters sent between Jerusalem and Egypt to the dramatic (and sometimes hilarious) miracles recorded in the Book of 2 Maccabees—including angels and divine horses—this episode will completely change how you view the Festival of Lights.

Dr. Malka Simkovich serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Publication Society, Visiting Professor at Yeshiva University’s Revel Graduate School for Jewish Studies, is a member of President Isaac Herzog’s Voice of the People delegation, and was the Crown-Ryan Chair of Jewish Studies and Director of Catholic-Jewish Studies at Catholic Theological Union.