In the Valley of Giants

Business Mogul and Jewish Geo-political warrior Hillel Fuld says the quiet part out loud: the West is repeating the oldest script in history, and Jews who keep waiting for the world to get better may be missing the window to come home. He makes the case that anti-Semitism is not a problem to "solve" with better optics, but a recurring response to morality, power, and empire - and he does not hold back on what that means for Jewish life in America, Europe, and beyond. He breaks down why he believes the "genocide" accusation, the anti-Israel narrative, and the current wave of public hostility are all part of a much bigger pattern. From there, the conversation gets even sharper: Hillel explains why he thinks appeasement fails, why the middle matters more than the extremists, and why data, not denial, should drive the Aliyah conversation. Timestamps 0:00 – Cold-open teaser: the Gaza "pile of dead kids" exchange, pulled from later in the interview 0:27 – Host's welcome and introduction of Hillel 0:52 – The question: why are the Jewish optics so bad? 1:41 – Hillel: anti-Semitism has no logical explanation, so the question itself is flawed 2:42 – Hillel's "empire script": empires reject morality, then turn on the Jews 4:18 – Hillel's prediction that the West is on its last legs 4:49 – Host: there is always a reason, and optics can be fixed 5:42 – Hillel pushes back on the premise: "we can't appease them" 6:32 – Host: your online work does change minds 7:09 – Hillel's three audiences: the moral, the crazies, the persuadable middle 8:34 – "The genocide lie": the 200,000 tons of bombs vs. 70,000 deaths math 10:11 – Host: what are we doing wrong for the middle group? (This is where the teaser originally came from.) 10:41 – Argument over whether to address civilian deaths at all (the double-standard and WWII point) 11:14 – Host on morality and holding Jews to a higher standard 12:24 – Should you answer "dumb" arguments? Hillel's "dead kids in Germany too" response 13:28 – Hillel: the numbers don't matter, and he won't give it legitimacy 14:25 – Host asks whether he'd address a sincere "genocide" question; Hillel's late brother Ari 15:31 – Hillel: is it theology or logic? He says the world is "upside down" 16:41 – Hillel flips each accusation (apartheid, ethnic cleansing, genocide) 17:35 – Closing tangent: Rabbi Leo D's new book Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #HillelFuld #Aliyah #Israel #Antisemitism #JewishIdentity #JewishDiaspora #JewishHistory #ProIsrael #Zionism #JewishCommunity #AmYisraelChai #MovingToIsrael #MakeAliyah #IsraelPodcast #JewishPodcast #AntiIsrael #JewishFuture #JewishWorld #ITVOG #InTheValleyOfGiants #Genocide #Gaza #israel #palestine #iran #middleeast

Rabbi Tovia Singer on Mashiach, Isaiah 11, and the Messianic AgeRabbi Tovia Singer joins Rabbi Dorfman for a text-driven conversation about the Jewish understanding of Mashiach, the role of Tanakh, and why the messianic hope is less about reward and more about the revelation of God’s glory. They also explore Isaiah 11, the Rambam and the Rivid, the rebuilding of the Temple, and how current events fit into a literal reading of prophecy.They discuss why the Messiah matters in Jewish thought, how to read prophetic language, and why education, worldview, and returning to original sources shape how one sees the present moment.Timestamps00:00 - Welcome back and setting up the Mashiach question01:34 - How many messianic passages Tanakh really has03:26 - Mashiach as Davidic teacher, not miracle worker04:52 - Why messianic reward is less about incentives and more about truth08:31 - Isaiah 11 and the natural description of Mashiach09:28 - Rambam vs. Rivid on whether Mashiach has supernatural abilities10:44 - Reading Isaiah’s language through the text itself17:22 - Ruach, breath, and the spiritual source of wisdom21:49 - Will the Third Temple fall from heaven or be built by hand?26:06 - Why medieval sources should not override the plain reading27:58 - Prophecy unfolding in order through current world events33:15 - Why messianic prophecy must be plain, not esoteric36:34 - The failure to study Navi and historical Ketuvim39:53 - Ezra and the first return to Zion as a model for today41:21 - Why people may simply not want to move to Israel47:27 - Ezra, Nechemia, and the role of non-observant Jews in redemption51:57 - The Zionist movement, religious and secular, as part of the process54:16 - Anti-Semitism as a trigger in Tanakh’s messianic pattern58:14 - The polarization of the world on Israel and the Jews61:45 - “Read Tanakh” as the answer to doubt64:42 - Why a central role for Israel means some old assumptions were wrong66:00 - Hezekiah, hidden outcomes, and not engaging the mysteries of God70:36 - Who is Mashiach? Why it may be you71:26 - How Isaiah, Samuel, and David point to unexpected leadership75:03 - Living in a time of daily miracles and becoming used to them77:27 - What to tell family members who still live outside Israel79:16 - Why fighting anti-Semitism is only part of the larger picture80:29 - Facts on the ground, Ben Gurion, and what really changes historySupport us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod#JewishTheology #BiblicalProphecy #ProphecyExplained #JewishHistory #Navi #BookOfIsaiah #DavidicKingdom #RuachHashem #RambamVsRaavad #Rivid #EzraAndNehemiah #ReturnToZion #MessianicProphecy #JewishEducation #StudyTanakh #TempleMount #ThirdBeitHamikdash #Geulah #AmYisrael #Zionism

.The first new Haredi party in Israeli politics is forcing a question most people avoid: who really speaks for the community, the rabbis, the politicians, or the power brokers in between? Ziva Glanz lays out why thousands of Haredi voters feel underrepresented, why the old model is no longer working, and how her party is trying to bring the Haredi ציבור into the center of Israeli life without abandoning Torah values.Rabbi Dorfman presses into the toughest issue at the heart of the movement - whether the legacy parties are still faithfully conveying the guidance of the gadolim, or whether a different model of leadership is needed. Zeva explains why she does not see this as a battle against rabbanim at all, but as a push for a more effective, more responsive structure that actually gets results. Timestamps 0:00 — Cold open: the stakes of military exemption and service0:21 — Introduction to Ziva Glanz and the new Haredi political party1:01 — Why create a new party? Representation, political intermediaries, and legacy parties7:09 — Rabbinic leadership and how the party makes decisions14:32 — Relationship with established Haredi parties15:34 — Foreign policy, security, and support for Israel’s right-wing bloc18:21 — Military service, Torah study, and who should contribute23:41 — Accommodating Haredi soldiers and protecting religious values in service25:23 — Exemptions, Haredi service models, and the secular public’s concerns29:13 — Jewish government, redemption, and the party’s broader vision33:07 — Electoral concerns, representation, and serving working Haredi communities36:02 — Outro and mention of the members-only discussion on women in politicsSupport us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod#ITVOG #InTheValleyOfGiants #ZivaGlanz #Haredi #HarediPolitics #HarediCommunity #HarediJews #UltraOrthodox #UltraOrthodoxJews #JewishPolitics #IsraeliPolitics #IsraelPolitics #PoliticsInIsrael #Israel #IsraeliSociety #JewishCommunity #JewishLife #JewishIdentity #Judaism #OrthodoxJudaism #ReligiousZionism #Torah #TorahJudaism #RabbinicLeadership #Rabbis #Ask an im #Askanim #Shas #PoliticalRepresentation #HarediRepresentation #JewishLeadership #IsraeliGovernment #Knesset #IsraeliSociety #JewishNews #IsraelNews #IsraelDiscussion #JewishPerspectives #JewishVoices #CommunityLeadership #PoliticalParties #PoliticalDiscussion #IsraelPodcast #JewishPodcast #OrthodoxJewish #HarediWorld #JewishWorld #CurrentAffairs #MiddleEastPolitics #IsraelDebate #JewishConversations #PodcastClips #Podcast #YouTubePodcast #ITVOGPodcast #בחירות #כנסת

The Messiah debate everyone thinks is about miracles is actually about something much bigger—and much more immediate. Rabbi Tovia Singer makes the case that if you read Tanakh on its own terms, the messianic age is not fantasy, but the unfolding of a very literal, very public process already in motion.Rabbi Dorfman opens with a provocative claim about having “seen the Messiah,” then presses into the real question: why does Mashiach matter at all if the Ramban suggests the reward is actually greater before he comes? From there, the conversation moves fast and deep, testing the boundaries between Isaiah 11, the Rambam, the Rivid, and the Bavli. Are messianic signs supposed to be natural or miraculous? Is the Messiah a wonder-worker, or a Davidic leader filled with the spirit of God? And what do we do with rabbinic sources that seem to point in different directions? @ToviaSinger1 Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #Mashiach #Messiah #RabbiToviaSinger #Judaism #Torah #Tanakh #JewishProphecy #BibleProphecy #Rambam #JewishHistory #Israel #LandOfIsrael #EndTimes #JewishTheology #DavidicKing #MessianicAge #JewishPeople #BibleStudy #JewishPodcast #ITVOG Used in accordance with Israel's Copyright Law 5768-2007 section 27a.

When a Rabbi and a Catholic communicator sit down to talk about faith, the surprising question is not what they disagree on - it's how much they discover they share. Jamie O'Brien opens up about the Catholic Church's hidden social impact, the real meaning of forgiveness, and why faith cannot survive as a purely online experience.This conversation goes far beyond polite interfaith dialogue. It gets into the moments that usually make people uncomfortable: why Catholics don't see Jews as having "made a mistake," how forgiveness works when you've been deeply hurt, and why scripture, tradition, and lived experience all matter when you're trying to understand what God asks of you. Jamie also shares what most people miss about the Church today - from homelessness and domestic violence outreach to the rich body of Catholic teaching on sexuality, family, and the dignity of human life.You'll discover:Why the Catholic faith is more active in daily life than most people realizeHow Jamie thinks about forgiveness as something practiced, not performedWhat outreach looks like when it means knocking on doors, hosting public prayer, and meeting people face to faceThe episode also explores deeper questions about sexuality, holiness, and vocation, including why celibacy in the priesthood does not mean sexuality is rejected, but instead understood through a different calling. Jamie reflects on raising seven children, losing a child, and relying on prayer, discernment, and the teachings of the Church to make sense of suffering and responsibility.If you're interested in interfaith dialogue, Catholic teaching, evangelization, or the future of faith in a distracted digital world, this is essential listening. It is thoughtful, candid, and unexpectedly moving - the kind of conversation that leaves you seeing both your own tradition and someone else's with new eyes.Jamie O'Brien is a Catholic editor and communicator in Perth, Western Australia, known for his work promoting Church teaching, public faith, and social outreach across the diocese. He shares how those roles have shaped his understanding of forgiveness, community, and the Church's mission in modern life.Timestamps:00:00 Cold open: Jewish responsibility for Jesus’s death00:31 Introduction01:37 Learning across faiths02:40 Misconceptions about the Catholic Church06:54 Jesus, Jews, and forgiveness10:24 Forgiveness as a Catholic practice14:48 Yom Kippur and atonement16:29 Church charity and helping people in need17:39 Catholic teaching and papal writings20:24 Older and newer religious teachings23:11 Jewish and Catholic perspectives on sexuality25:55 Marriage, celibacy, and religious vocation35:26 Jesus in art and shared Jewish roots39:58 Outreach and faith education45:16 Door-to-door outreach and Jamie’s personal story48:39 Public faith, youth events, and community50:50 Spiritual success and lifelong growth54:06 Jewish reflections on purpose and striving56:27 Social media, music, and modern outreach59:54 Faith as a lived community experience1:03:45 Can video games lead people toward faith?1:07:21 Entertainment, heavy music, and faith1:10:49 A childhood game and moral storytelling1:12:38 Stories, children, and memorable faith lessons1:15:06 Challenges of sharing faith today1:16:48 Vulnerability and personal testimony1:18:27 Family, work, and protecting children online1:21:10 Community and the sign of peace1:24:29 The meaning of the Shema1:26:46 Farewell Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod#Faith #InterfaithDialogue #Catholicism #Judaism #FaithAndCulture #ReligiousDialogue #Forgiveness #Spirituality #Christianity #JewishWisdom #FaithInAction #MeaningfulConversations #Community #Evangelization #PodcastClips #Faith #Catholic #Judaism #InterfaithDialogue #Christianity #Rabbi #Forgiveness #God #Spirituality #Bible #FaithJourney #Jesus #Podcast #Inspiration #viral

**Is the Messianic age already beginning—and what would a true Messiah actually look like?** In this wide-ranging and candid conversation, Rabbi David Bar-Haim and Rabbi Yonatan Dorfman explore some of Judaism’s most consequential questions: **What is Moshiach? How does redemption actually begin? Who has the authority to lead the Jewish people? And what role should Jews play in bringing about the Geulah?**Drawing on the **Rambam, Ramban, Rashi, the Kuzari, the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmuds, Bar Kokhba, and Rabbi Akiva**, the discussion examines the tension between spiritual scholarship and national leadership—and between waiting for redemption and actively participating in it.Rabbi Bar-Haim presents a vision of Judaism rooted in **national responsibility, Jewish sovereignty, and practical action**, while the conversation probes the theological and halachic questions that follow from that vision.Together, they explore whether the Third Temple must descend from Heaven or be built by human hands; whether Moshiach must be a Torah scholar, king, military leader—or some combination of these; what Bar Kokhba and Rabbi Akiva teach us about failed redemption; and what Jewish responsibility looks like in the modern State of Israel. In this episode: What the Rambam actually teaches about identifying Moshiach* Bar Kokhba, Rabbi Akiva, and the question of miracles* Why the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmuds may present different perspectives on redemption* Is Moshiach a rabbi, a king, a military leader—or all three?* Must the Third Temple come from Heaven, or can Jews build it themselves?* Waiting for redemption vs. actively bringing redemption about* Exile-minded Judaism vs. redemption-minded Judaism* Jewish sovereignty, leadership, and responsibility in Israel* The role of Torah scholarship in shaping the Jewish future* Timestamps (00:00) Opening the question of who the Messiah is (02:29) Isaiah 11 and the first framework for identifying Mashiach (04:51) Why the Messiah is a national leader, not necessarily a rabbi (09:14) Rambam’s list of messianic qualifications in the laws of kings and wars (12:52) Why a Torah teacher is not automatically a candidate for Mashiach (16:49) Is the Jewish people’s unity today enough to matter messianically? (19:57) The shift from rabbinic community leadership to national leadership (22:25) Why Galut mode Judaism is not the ideal model (25:15) The secular founding of the State of Israel and the split it created (29:36) Why rabbis alone cannot direct the Jewish state (33:23) Bar Kokhba as the test case for messianic leadership (36:36) Did the sages demand miracles from Bar Kokhba? (38:54) Bavli versus Yerushalmi as two different Jewish outlooks (40:13) Rav Avigdor Nebenzahl and the problem of a state before Mashiach (47:13) Rambam, Ra’avad, and the disagreement over supernatural expectations (50:10) The shalosh shavuot and whether Zionism violated them (52:19) The army debate and the clash between halakhah and state practice (61:15) Chanukah as a military and national miracle, not only an oil miracle (69:45) Why the Temple and Jewish sovereignty must be built by people (78:01) A new historical moment for the Jewish people after 2,000 years (83:05) The Supreme Court, coalition politics, and Torah power in the state (87:30) Why Zionist success came from organized vision, not numbers alone (95:24) Why waiting is not a Jewish strategy (99:10) Rabbi Yehuda Halevi and the failure of the Second Temple period (101:01) “A kingdom of priests” and why a nation needs sovereignty (106:33) What Rabbi בר-חיים says the Torah people should do now( 140:09) Final answer: build a redemption movement and change the national vision #Moshiach #Messiah #MessianicAge #Judaism #JewishPodcast #Torah #Rambam #Maimonides #Ramban #Rashi #Kuzari #Talmud #BarKokhba #RabbiAkiva #ThirdTemple #BeitHamikdash #EretzYisrael #Israel #JewishSovereignty #Zionism #ReligiousZionism #OrthodoxJudaism ##JewishThought #Machonshilo #Rabbibarhaim

Join us for a special Torah Q&A from Jerusalem’s Old City, near the walls of the Temple Mount. We explore the Jewish mission to bring meaning and morality into the world, the responsibility to live with intention, and the role of Noahide teachings.The conversation also examines what it means to be a light unto the nations, the significance of saying “next year in Jerusalem,” and the spiritual and practical case for connection to the land of Israel. Later, we discuss questions around Christianity and Paul, the story of Jonah, prayer, hardship, and how to live with deeper purpose.Timestamps00:00 — Q&A from Jerusalem’s Old City01:04 — The Jewish mission and moral responsibility03:11 — Living intentionally instead of “droning”03:44 — Being a light unto the nations06:31 — Teaching and supporting Noahides09:17 — “Next year in Jerusalem” and the land of Israel12:00 — Reasons for living outside Israel14:37 — Faith, Jewish unity, and security16:49 — Paul, Christianity, and difficult moral questions19:36 — Jonah and the changing fish21:46 — What God is waiting forSupport us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod#TorahQandA #Jerusalem #OldCityJerusalem #Torah #JewishWisdom #NoahideLaws #LightUntoTheNations #Israel #JewishMission #JewishIdentity #NextYearInJerusalem #BiblicalWisdom #Jonah #Prayer #Purpose

This conversation explores how Jewish parents, educators, and rabbanim should teach children and adults about intimacy with dignity, clarity, and emotional honesty. Rabbi Friedman and Rabbi Dorfman explain why these conversations must happen early, how to frame desire as something to channel rather than suppress, and why the Torah’s approach offers a healthier model than the outside world. Key topics: Why parents and teachers must be the first voices children hear on intimacy, before outside culture fills the vacuum. Presenting sexuality within kedusha, safety, and dignity. Why whatever comes in first shapes the child most strongly. Why the yetzer hara is not inherently evil, but a powerful drive that must be guided by the yetzer tov. Framing intimacy as a channel for creating devek, with pleasure serving the marital bond. How the Torah does not reject pleasure, but demands control, purity, and purpose. The difference between healthy Torah enjoyment and hedonism. How modern culture sexualizes children and adults, making Torah-based education more urgent. Why the right frame is not “we are deprived,” but “we were given something precious and protected.” Full timeline: 00:00 — Introduction to Rabbi Friedman and the scope of the discussion 01:06 — Four-part roadmap: education, the nature of tashmish, enjoyment, and modern challenges 03:00 — Why intimate education must be taught by parents, teachers, and rabbanim 04:56 — Whatever enters first shapes the child’s foundation 07:52 — Teaching with dignity, boundaries, and a culture of safety 10:57 — The book’s development and why it took years to arrange 11:56 — Why Rabbi Nachman Bulman said the book could work in English 14:49 — Why the book was meant for parents, educators, and young people 16:41 — Why education should begin before the world’s imagery gets there first 18:43 — Introducing the yetzer hara and related concepts early 22:01 — Physical action, memory, and why embodied teaching matters 24:05 — Preparing emotionally before speaking to children about sexuality 27:07 — Turning shame into clarity by portraying false values as absurd 30:14 — Why the conversation must happen earlier in a hypersexualized culture 33:13 — Neil Postman’s The Disappearance of Childhood and the loss of innocence 38:03 — Clothing, socialization, and the false currency of beauty and money 42:18 — The harmful idea that “it’s fun out there but we’re not allowed” 44:21 — Why Torah life is not a loss, but a deeper happiness 46:42 — Media, movies, and the cost of exposing children to adult content 49:09 — Why a TV in the house was compared to an open sewage line 52:48 — Necessary evil versus drives that can be redirected toward holiness 54:42 — Uplifting food, sleep, and sexuality through Torah 56:43 — No antagonism between body and soul in Torah, only synergy 57:53 — How pleasure can create devek in marriage 60:24 — A lifetime of holy intimacy without guilt or shame 63:44 — A campus talk that moved an Irish Catholic professor to tears 67:07 — Training police officers to understand Jewish boundaries and mikvah life 70:00 — Why outsiders often sense the beauty of Torah marriage 73:12 — Limits, balance, and why Torah rules are about control and pleasure 75:58 — The Shulchan Aruch on minimizing movement, and how to read it correctly 81:23 — Using parallel sources to understand texts in context 83:16 — A ruling not to teach certain material to couples before marriage 84:43 — Shana Rishona as a state of mind, not just a calendar year 88:11 — Modern problems: later marriage, sexualization, and hedonism 90:37 — Food as a model: “filled but not fulfilled” 92:41 — Converting hunger and pleasure into sviya and devek 94:57 — Final warning: do not try to be smarter than the Torah 95:36 — Closing thanks and final remarks Say thank you :) : ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #podcast #Sex #intimacy #JewishMarriage #MaritalIntimacy #TorahViewOfIntimacy #Torah #sexuality #sex

Rabbi Yonatan Dorfman speaks with Rabbi Leo Dee about catastrophic loss, trauma recovery, community support, faith, family resilience, antisemitism, Israeli unity, and the future of the Jewish people. Rabbi Leo shares the story of losing his wife, Lucy, and two daughters in a terror attack while traveling in Israel for Passover. He explains how numbness, community support, structured routines, spiritual reflection, and purposeful action helped him and his children begin rebuilding their lives. The conversation also explores Rabbi Leo’s book, The Seven Facets of Healing, the importance of confronting triggers, the relationship between pain and personal growth, and the debates surrounding antisemitism, Haredi military service, Torah study, and national responsibility. Timestamps: 00:00 — Opening hook: why hardship can become a path to greatness 01:55 — The terror attack on Passover and the family’s route through the Jordan Valley 03:05 — First reaction: numbness, silence, and adrenaline 04:01 — Burial, festival mourning, and the impossible rhythm of grief 05:46 — How joy and sadness can exist together 07:19 — Therapy, trauma, and why existing frameworks had no answer 08:10 — How the shiva became a model of community care 09:39 — Recurring visits instead of vague offers of support 11:10 — The power of simply showing up 12:30 — How teachers, friends, and school leaders supported the children 13:24 — New work and new routines as part of recovery 14:32 — Triggers, routines, and why everything initially felt painful 16:27 — Rewriting the life narrative without erasing grief18:20 — Bad instincts after trauma and choosing the opposite response 20:27 — Smiling as a practice rather than a result 21:50 — Returning to prayer, Daf Yomi, walking, and structured life 23:12 — How parental healing affects children’s healing 24:53 — Memorializing loved ones without freezing life 26:08 — Family trips, holidays, and protecting family time 27:05 — Can happiness and sadness coexist? 28:23 — Why anger may be the forbidden emotion 29:23 — Hugs at shiva, old conflicts, and releasing anger 31:13 — Reframing God as presence rather than a distant figure 33:00 — Why “what if” thinking can feed grief and anger 35:29 — Living according to what the deceased would want 38:18 — Repentance as a mental decision before it becomes an action 41:06 — Pain as a blessing and what triggers can reveal 42:02 — Recognizing loneliness as the deeper wound 44:11 — Why feeling pain more deeply helped the healing process 44:59 — Helping others, public speaking, and writing as healing 46:45 — Antisemitism, propaganda, and the social war 48:00 — Antisemitism as a distraction from purpose 50:25 — The difference between committed haters and people who are misled 51:31 — Israeli youth, service, and national responsibility 53:46 — America, Iran, and the stakes of international alignment 56:58 — Building instead of constantly reacting 58:57 — Israel as a model for values, education, and defense 61:16 — Whether people can be deprogrammed from hate 62:45 — Cutting off terror funding as a strategy 65:24 — Unity in Israel before and after October 7th 67:22 — The Haredi army-service debate and the need for mutual respect 69:58 — Torah scholars, pikuach nefesh, and military service 74:19 — Money, bias, and leadership incentives 77:20 — Why this may be a redemptive moment in Jewish history 78:06 — Jewish demographics in Israel and the historical implications Say thank you :) : ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #RabbiLeoDee #RabbiYonatanDorfman #TraumaHealing #HealingAfterLoss #GriefAndHealing #FaithAndResilience #JewishThought #JewishUnity #Israel #IsraelHistory #October7 #Antisemitism #JewishIdentity #MentalHealthAndHealing #CommunitySupport #FamilyResilience #SpiritualGrowth #TheSevenFacetsOfHealing #PikuachNefesh #TorahAndLife #podcast #ITVOG #hamas #hamasattack #healing #trauma #torah #judaism #family

Eliyokim Cohen shares his powerful life story of moving from a traditional Jewish upbringing into addiction, a cocaine-fueled spiral, and a dramatic rock-bottom moment that ultimately pushed him toward teshuvah and a more purposeful life. The conversation centers on his journey from emptiness and escapism to meaning, Torah, and spiritual clarity. A major theme is that people are seeking something real—not just pleasure, but deep purpose. Eliyokim argues that Torah provides structure, truth, and lasting joy, while modern culture often traps people in short-term highs through drugs, social media, and other distractions. He speaks passionately about "spiritual self-esteem," the importance of authenticity, and the belief that every Jew has a unique mission and inherent value. The episode also explores practical issues such as drug use, the dangers of smartphones and pornography, and why honest conversations and real education are more effective than sugarcoating difficult topics. Throughout the discussion, Eliyokim emphasizes that lasting change is possible—but only when a person truly wants to change and is willing to rebuild their life around something higher. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Eliyokim Cohen's inspiring story 00:10 – His childhood and early Jewish identity 01:06 – College years, love for business, and seeking meaning 05:06 – Descent into drug addiction and dealing cocaine 12:48 – The dramatic car chase and hitting rock bottom 21:10 – Turning point: meeting the right rabbi and beginning teshuvah 24:03 – Connecting to authentic Judaism through faith and purpose 30:10 – The influence of modern technology and spiritual potential 37:36 – How to inspire a deeper connection with God in a distracted world 44:58 – Addressing the challenges of addiction and spiritual emptiness 50:52 – The significance of responsibility and purpose in life 58:36 – The dangers of modern digital exposure and the importance of boundaries 1:03:36 – The unnatural allure of pleasure and its impact on the soul 1:10:20 – Embracing AI and technology for Torah and spiritual advancement 1:15:03 – Closing reflections: the beauty and purpose of life, and the power of every individual Say thank you :) : https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod Help Eliyokim spread his Torah: Https://causematch.com/chaiontorah #addictionrecovery #podcast #judaism #torah #jewishthought

A candid conversation on PTSD, combat, and the difficult transition back to civilian life. The guests explore how combat environments shape the nervous system, why returning home can be harder than deployment, and how family, community, structure, and education can support veterans and their loved ones. The discussion also covers trauma triggers, relationships, parenting, stigma, and the value of practical support before someone reaches a breaking point. Timestamps: 00:00 — Why civilians struggle to understand combat 03:32 — What makes combat so psychologically difficult 06:20 — Trust, anger, and returning to everyday life 09:24 — Decompression and the transition home 11:06 — Can civilians bridge the experience gap? 17:03 — PTSD stigma and being dismissed 21:59 — Why social support matters after war 22:29 — A combat experience in Baghdad 26:29 — Casualty evacuation under fire 29:13 — Militia violence and civilian realities 31:21 — Public perceptions of veterans 35:38 — Moral injury and being demonized 38:14 — Identity, faith, and veteran community 40:21 — Rebuilding purpose and healthy structure 44:37 — Trauma, conflict, and moral questions 48:17 — What PTSD can feel like day to day 52:07 — Hypervigilance, crowds, driving, and triggers 55:22 — The effects on spouses, dating, and children 59:06 — Changing your relationship with traumatic memories 62:52 — Secondary trauma and exposure to difficult stories 65:30 — Therapy, education, and reintegration support 68:48 — How civilians can offer better support 71:28 — Preparing families and communities 77:38 — Support for spouses and families 78:45 — Including loved ones in treatment 81:29 — Resources and gaps in support systems 84:41 — The impact of deployment on children 86:54 — Final thoughts on PTSD and seeking help 89:44 — Prevention, education, and community support 91:23 — Closing reflections Say thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #ptsd #Veterans #MentalHealth #Military #healing #podcast #fyp #army #youtube

This clip is a Q&A session filmed on a rooftop in Jerusalem, where the speaker answers a wide range of Jewish and philosophical questions. The discussion moves from creation and dinosaurs to prayer, free will, suffering, and what it means to repair the world.Time Stamps 00:00 — Opening from a rooftop in Jerusalem and a quick setup for the audience Q&A.00:31 — Whether dinosaurs fit within the six days of Creation.03:42 — Jewish artifacts in the Vatican: what may be there and how historical texts can be evaluated.09:08 — The purpose of washing after bread, and whether it applies to other foods.10:43 — Why evil exists, free will, and the value of struggle.15:01 — Does God “change His mind”? Prayer, choice, and different possible paths.19:26 — Why pray if everything is part of God’s will?22:07 — Why there is both a written and oral Torah.26:15 — Suffering, especially innocent suffering, and the limits of human explanation.30:41 — How to understand passages about treatment of non-Jews in the Gemara.39:23 — What tikkun olam means in practice: repairing the world through thoughtful, responsible action.Support us here:https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #ITVOG #QandA #WesternWall #Jerusalem #JewishLife #israel #Israel #Jerusalem #jewishtok

Joseph Cohen joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation about Israel advocacy, the online information war, antisemitism, the Israel–Palestine conflict, and the role of faith in shaping identity and public debate. They discuss how social platforms reward conflict, the case for engaging difficult audiences, the moral questions raised by war, and the future of Jewish life in Israel and the diaspora. Timestamps 00:00 — Joseph Cohen on taking the fight to hostile narratives 00:37 — Introduction: Israel advocacy, the conflict, and antisemitism 01:17 — Welcome to Joseph Cohen 01:51 — The “war on two fronts”: military conflict and online propaganda 03:00 — Joseph’s background and journey into interfaith work 03:39 — Founding a campaign against antisemitism 04:44 — Anti-Zionism and antisemitism 05:51 — Social media as both a blessing and a threat 09:27 — Why confrontation can work online 14:50 — Long-form vs. short-form content in the information war 18:39 — Going on the offensive against disinformation 19:09 — Can conversations change extremists’ minds? 25:52 — Are Israel advocates winning the online battle? 30:14 — Why antisemitic content spreads online 31:14 — Islam, Israel, and the possibility of coexistence 35:08 — Military service and religious Zionism 42:42 — What individuals can do to support Jewish advocacy 46:44 — Gaza, civilian casualties, and the genocide debate 53:23 — Moral responsibility in war 58:53 — Intent, proportionality, and the purpose of military action 64:59 — Israel’s strongest challenges and internal criticisms 69:15 — Palestinian mistreatment and settler violence 75:34 — Why antisemitism persists 81:49 — Jewish and Muslim misconceptions about one another 91:51 — Joseph’s personal evolution in faith and politics 94:30 — The future of Jewish life outside Israel 97:50 — Can someone be anti-Zionist without being antisemitic? 100:07 — Closing message: “Come home” Say thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #Antisemitism #Israel #JewishIdentity #OnlineAdvocacy #podcast

Rabbi Shalom Hammer on suicide prevention, trauma, and how to respond with care.Rabbi Sholom Hammer shares how his family’s loss became a mission to educate communities about suicide prevention, mental health, and trauma-informed support. The conversation focuses on correcting language, understanding what suicidal distress really looks like, and learning how rabbis, parents, teachers, and friends can respond without overstepping their role.We discuss the difference between mental illness and deliberate self-harm, why direct questions can be lifesaving, and how to recognize warning signs in children, teens, and adults. Rabbi Hammer also explains why authenticity, consistency, and knowing your boundaries matter when someone is struggling.Timestamps00:00 - Why Rabbi Hammer’s mission is rooted in family loss00:49 - Turning grief into suicide prevention education03:41 - Why “commit suicide” is the wrong phrase06:46 - Suicide, mental illness, and what Chazal were actually addressing09:12 - Why suicide is best understood as invisible suffering11:09 - Most people who die by suicide want to live13:09 - A yeshiva head misreading a suicide case16:36 - Why rabbis must know their limits and refer out19:17 - A painful story about a father, a son, and a missed referral21:55 - What Rabbi Hammer knew before Gila’s death24:05 - Signs Gila was suffering and what the family missed26:09 - Why therapy is about expression and release27:59 - How to think about trauma as incorporation, not erasure32:49 - The biggest misconception: asking about suicide does not plant the idea35:35 - A better question for soldiers and helpers36:39 - Why disclosure does not ruin a future shidduch38:31 - Therapy plus medication, not medication instead of therapy40:29 - Medication side effects and trusting your instinct45:32 - Warning signs in little children, teens, and students47:02 - What to look for in schools, homes, and community settings50:00 - Why depression can look like exhaustion and withdrawal53:42 - What to do first when you notice warning signs55:42 - Why “leave me alone” often means “try again tomorrow”57:03 - Validation, empathy, and avoiding empty promises58:24 - Why authenticity matters after bereavement62:43 - Helping someone who refuses help64:14 - Isolation and lack of purpose as major risk factors66:28 - Why presence matters more than texts68:35 - When confidentiality must give way to protection72:22 - Jewish responsibility, chesed, and looking out for one anotherRabbi Hammers Soicals Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gilaswayInsta https://www.instagram.com/gilas_wayLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/rabbishalomhammerYouTube @RabbiHammerWebsite GilasWay.comSay thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod#podcast #mentalhealth #deep #youtube #jewish

How does Jewish metal become a vehicle for faith, identity, and healing?In this episode, Dove Halpern—better known as Hashem’s Warrior—joins the conversation to share how he turned a lifelong love of metal into music rooted in Torah, struggle, and spiritual resilience. They talk about growing up feeling like an outsider, rediscovering Judaism, creating music with AI, meeting David Draiman, and why heavy music can carry an intensely meaningful message. **Sponsored by the band Seraphim Aflame: Teaching Torah, inspiring souls, vanquishing demons, and spitting truth - Seraphim Aflame has pioneered Frum Jewish Metalcore.From an unlikely team of philosophers, artists, and talmudists, Seraphim Aflame uses eternal wisdom with state-of-the-art tech to get truth surging through your veins.Join us; ascend, purify, Amein.**https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkqug7StsaaYF-1o6Yd05eghttps://open.spotify.com/artist/0VWovzjvbdn70KX3X7YK5S?si=Fo7k1kwsQGW6L4z-cXaa0g Timestamps 00:00 A surprising encounter with David Draiman 00:32 Meet Dove Halpern / Hashem’s Warrior 01:02 Growing up outside the musical and religious mainstream 03:18 Finding emotional release in Linkin Park, rap, and metal 07:35 What Hashem’s Warrior is trying to bring into the world 09:12 Is it Jewish music—or something bigger? 13:31 Metal influences, technical musicianship, and finding a sound 16:17 A gap year in Israel and reconnecting with Judaism 20:34 Teaching himself to compose and discovering his musical voice 21:35 The spiritual spark behind Hashem’s Warrior 23:13 Building songs from riffs, lyrics, singers, and producers 30:19 AI music: creative shortcut or a new artistic tool? 31:51 “Portal Through the Prism” and bringing Kabbalistic ideas into metal 33:07 A listener’s emotional response to the music 35:28 Loss, grief, and finding the strength to create again 37:55 Rebuilding the project through daily spiritual content 40:16 How this conversation came together 42:20 Writing lyrics and turning ideas into songs 44:42 The story of meeting David Draiman 51:11 Pushback, faith, and the meaning behind the music 54:22 The debate over AI and authenticity in art 57:36 The dream of performing live and opening for Disturbed 59:13 Why metal can be deeply spiritual Hashems Warriors's socials Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3SHfoXD2natnyh2x8XRJtm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewishmetal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jewishmetal YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hashemswarrior Website: https://hashemswarrior.com Say thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod Music Credits: Intro- Not in Heaven (Hashems Warrior, Seraphim Aflame)Outro- Portal through the prism (Hashems Warrior)all rights reserved and consent to use the above music was assured by the above artists. #viral #fyp #music #rock #podcast

In this episode, Josh Berkowitz, owner of Edenwalk in New York, shares his unique experiences managing a kosher Jewish restaurant, the complexities of kosher certification, and the cultural nuances that shape his approach. Whether you're in the food industry or simply interested in cultural entrepreneurship, this conversation offers deep insights into maintaining integrity, handling challenges, and the importance of community and ethics. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Josh Berkowitz and Edenwalk 02:26 - Josh’s background and entry into the restaurant industry 03:26 - Motivations: Challenge and passion for food 04:30 - The exit of Josh’s father from his restaurant and reasons behind it 06:27 - Common misconceptions about the restaurant business 07:48 - The importance of understanding the complexity of kosher food prep 08:54 - How long it takes to prepare a day’s food and the work behind the scenes 09:39 - Work-life balance and constant thinking about the business 11:43 - A story of a bizarre curse related to a restaurant mistake 13:02 - Insights into Jewish court disputes over kosher certification 15:18 - The significance of giving others the benefit of the doubt 16:47 - Addressing potential corruption and challenges in Jewish legal systems 22:34 - Why Josh discourages his children from going into the restaurant business 23:43 - Impact of modern options like Uber Eats on food industry competition 32:35 - Cultural and rabbinic perspectives on expanding kosher restaurants and community impact 35:08 - The importance of integrity and ethical standards in kosher certification 50:59 - Reflection on the fairness of the kosher industry and its regulatory environment 58:37 - Closing remarks and Josh’s unique approach as a Jewish restaurant owner This episode delves into the practicalities and philosophy of combining faith, ethics, and business in a vibrant, competitive market, emphasizing the importance of community, integrity, and resilience. Say thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod #podcast #restaurant #fyp #viral #itvog #jewish #youtube

Tune in to learn why GLP-1 drugs are being called some of the most important therapies of the 21st century.How GLP-1s Impact Weight, Metabolism, and Addiction with Dr. Brian FertigIn this episode, Dr. Brian Fertig breaks down the science behind GLP-1 drugs and why they’ve become such a major breakthrough in weight management, metabolism, and even addiction treatment. He explains how these medications work beyond appetite suppression — affecting the brain, gut, inflammation, and long-term health.Key topicsWhy leptin therapy failed and how GLP-1s work differentlyHow GLP-1s reduce hunger, cravings, and emotional eatingThe role of gut bacteria and bile acids in metabolismHow these drugs may affect inflammation, neurodegeneration, and agingWhat side effects and safety concerns to understand before useWhy GLP-1s may influence addictive behaviors like smoking and alcohol use Timestamps 00:00 Intro 00:36 Leptin and weight regulation 01:52 How GLP-1s work 03:20 Appetite control and food intake 05:16 Muscle mass and metabolism13:09 Gut microbiota and metabolism 20:04 Emotional eating and cravings 29:46 Safety profile and immune system effects 47:21 Neurodegeneration and GLP-1 benefits 48:16 Addiction and behavior changes 55:38 Hormesis and overuse risks 58:25 Resistance training and muscle preservation 61:33 Side effects and contraindications 70:40 Cardiac safety data 72:42 Ocular side effects 76:51 Longevity and healthspan 80:32 Closing remarks #Podcast #Podcasts #PodcastEpisode #PodcastClip #PodcastCommunity #HealthPodcast #MedicalPodcast #WellnessPodcast #SciencePodcast #Metabolism #GLP1 #WeightLoss #ObesityTreatment #Longevity #BrainHealth #AddictionRecovery #Nutrition #Endocrinology #Healthcare #Medicine Say thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpod

https://www.operationbenjamin.org/ Most companies overlook one of the most profound ethical dilemmas in modern warfare—how to fight with integrity while preserving innocent lives. Shalom Lamm, a military historian and founder of Operation Benjamin, reveals groundbreaking stories that challenge the way we view war, sacrifice, and honor. From transforming military graves to correcting decades-old misidentifications, his work uncovers the unheard stories of Jewish soldiers, lost and forgotten, buried under crosses or concealed by silence. In this compelling episode, you'll discover how a simple act of replacing crosses with Stars of David honors fallen heroes and restores dignity—one headstone at a time. Shalom shares untold stories from WWII and WWI, highlighting how tragic mistakes and bureaucratic neglect have hidden Jewish sacrifices in history. You'll hear about the extraordinary efforts to find descendants, rectify graves, and rekindle the memory of heroes whose identities were erased or ignored. These stories demonstrate a profound duty to honor memory, fight anti-Semitism, and uphold moral responsibility—at a time when such integrity is desperately needed. You’ll also explore the broader issues of international law’s double standards, the ethics of warfare, and how societal ignorance allows hatred to fester. Shalom delves into the cultural and bureaucratic obstacles hindering Israel’s housing crisis, revealing how entrenched interests, red tape, and corruption keep vital progress out of reach. His perspective goes beyond policy—this is a call for active citizenship and reform, emphasizing that simple solutions, powered by genuine competition and political will, can transform entire nations. This episode challenges you to think differently about history, morality, and the power of individual action. Perfect for anyone committed to preserving memory, fighting injustice, or seeking practical ways to strengthen faith and community. Whether you're a military enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about how ethical warfare can evolve, Shalom Lamm’s insights will inspire you to take action—no matter how small—to honor those who served and to build a better world. 00:00 Ethical warfare and Israel’s war in Gaza 01:40 Introducing Shalom Lamm and Operation Benjamin 02:12 Proportionality, civilian casualties, and the laws of war 12:02 Antisemitism and the battle for public opinion 17:35 What Operation Benjamin does 18:05 How the mission began in Normandy 28:57 Expanding the work beyond Normandy 31:56 Leaving real estate to lead the mission full time 34:44 Finding forgotten Jewish soldiers and working with families 41:43 World War I, Operation Levy, and overlooked graves 42:29 The search for Lt. Nathan Baskin 49:05 Restoring the identities of German Jewish soldiers 50:46 How people can support Operation Benjamin 53:38 Why housing in Israel is so expensive 58:59 What meaningful housing reform could look like 1:08:04 The response from military and cemetery partners 1:12:00 A closing message: remembering those who came before us

In this episode: Lenny Solomon, the pioneer of modern Jewish parody music and founder of Shlock Rock , joins me for a wide-ranging conversation on music, creativity, faith, and the future of art. We discuss: The difference between adaptation and assimilation in Jewish culture. How Lenny pioneered modern Jewish music by respectfully incorporating secular musical styles. The legal and creative process behind the creation of Shlock Rock . Why music is one of the most powerful tools for education, inspiration, and spiritual connection. The criticism he faced—and how his work eventually gained acceptance. Whether AI-generated music is a threat to artists or simply another creative tool. Why meaningful lyrics and storytelling matter more than overproduction. How melody, harmony, and musical patterns connect to personality and the soul. His vision for future projects, including a musical based on the Book of Daniel. Topics & People Mentioned Shlock Rock NCSY Alan Sherman Napster AI-generated music Jewish music Songwriting Creativity & storytelling Timestamps 00:00 – Introducing Lenny Solomon 00:30 – Adaptation vs. assimilation 01:05 – Pioneering modern Jewish music 03:09 – The birth of Shlock Rock 05:02 – Building 43 albums and an international career 06:54 – Rabbinic criticism and eventual acceptance 09:12 – Inspiration and the songwriting process 15:02 – Music's spiritual and emotional power 17:21 – Storytelling in music 19:23 – AI and the future of creativity 25:05 – Why musical patterns resonate with us 29:23 – Music, personality, and the soul 31:33 – AI: Tool or replacement? 33:00 – From Napster to streaming 37:31 – Authenticity in art 42:25 – Adapting to technological change 46:14 – Divine inspiration and creativity 50:03 – Funding ambitious creative projects 54:12 – What's missing in today's Jewish music 59:04 – Rabbi Noah Weinberg's influence 60:02 – Final reflections #music #Jewishmusic #LennySolmon #Schlock Rock

Deep inside storytelling and game design, Chris Avellone reveals how to craft narratives that resonate on a spiritual and psychological level—and how those principles can transform your own life. Discover the hidden philosophies behind iconic characters and stories, from Star Wars to Fallout, and learn to see the world through a richer, more plausible lens. Whether you're a storyteller, gamer, or just curious about the art of meaningful narratives—prepare to challenge your assumptions and ignite your imagination.Chris Avellone, a legendary game designer known for his work on Knights of the Old Republic II and Jedi Fallen Order, shares the secrets of creating stories that compel us to think deeply. You'll learn how real-world philosophy influences the most memorable characters and factions, like Kreia or Caesar's Legion, and how exploring complex moral themes leads to richer, more impactful storytelling. We dive into his innovative approach to character agency, the importance of philosophical depth over simple goals, and why making hard choices is central to authentic narratives. Plus, get insights on how to incorporate plausible human behavior into fiction and why the best stories reflect our innermost truths.We dive into:The art of crafting characters who challenge and elevate our thinkingHow stories can reveal our values about free will, morality, and the universe itself.The significance of agency and choice in making stories compelling and meaningful.The role of philosophical frameworks—like the nature of the Force or human flaws—in shaping stories that last.Why even antagonists have blind spots, and how understanding their flaws can make your stories more nuanced.This episode is perfect for writers, game developers, philosophers, or anyone seeking to understand how storytelling can shape perceptions and inspire growth. If you're tired of shallow narratives and crave depth, curiosity, and authenticity—this episode will change the way you see stories forever.Doesn't matter if you want to be a better video game designer, teacher, or parent- this episode will change your life.Timestamps:00:00 — Introduction to guest Chris Avellone and the life experiences that shaped him02:01 — Kreia’s character in Knights of the Old Republic II and her philosophy05:07 — The complexity of charity, morality, and ethical choices in games07:58 — The depth of storytelling and cultural/spiritual elements in narratives09:55 — The perspective of ordinary citizens in Star Wars and philosophical discussions11:23 — The importance of “the philosophy of existence” within storytelling14:09 — The plausibility of Jessica Jones and the realism of its characters16:46 — Character growth and narratives built around cooperation23:41 — The limitations of Jedi: Fallen Order and the intentions behind its design25:38 — Kreia’s role and the philosophical purpose behind her character33:48 — Kreia’s goals and an explanation of her flawed approach39:43 — The relativity of moral good and evil and the nature of humanity45:22 — Philosophies that inspire change and cultivate personal agency52:49 — The political themes and cultural reflections of Fallout: New Vegas58:40 — The evolution of storytelling in modern games and future possibilities64:52 — Kreia’s ultimate goal and her blind spots67:49 — The connection between philosophy and self-awareness72:36 — The importance of dialogue, empathy, and gaming as a bridge between people74:39 — Future projects and writing opportunities81:34 — Changes in the industry and the renewed value of storytelling84:45 — Innovation in game design and proposals for future evolution88:16 — Closing remarks and thanks between participantsSay thank you: https://buymeacoffee.com/itvogpodAnd yes, Chris let us release the last few minutes :)#starwars #kotor2 #videogame #story #storytelling #fallout #prey