Rabbi Effie's Podcasts

A classic parable of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov with a lesson about our capacity to change to prepare us for Yom Kippur

A powerful lesson from Rabbi Chaim of Sanz to prepare for Yom Kippur

A powerful story to inspire our prayers on Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur

"Aliyah L'Regel": An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.The arrival of Rosh Hashanah brings both rigorous halachic protocols and deep, soul-stirring themes as we prepare to stand before the Almighty. From the practicalities of morning preparation to the profound spiritual resonance of the blasts, the structure of the New Year invites us to connect with the very foundations of existence.In this episode, we unpack the practical halachot and spiritual mechanics of Rosh Hashanah through three core questions:Eating Before Shofar: Is it permissible to eat or drink before fulfilling the essential mitzvah of listening to the Shofar, and how do halachic authorities navigate the balance between physical strength and spiritual obligations on a holiday morning?The Wordless Prayer: How do the raw, unfiltered sounds of the Shofar allow us to express deep emotions, prayers, and inner longings that human words simply fail to capture?Echoes of Creation: Why do we observe a two-day festival for Rosh Hashanah, and how does this dual structure directly commemorate the original first Friday and Shabbat in the story of Creation?Join us for an inspiring exploration into the halachic nuances and internal rhythm of Rosh Hashanah, offering fresh perspectives to transform your spiritual preparation for the High Holidays.

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed. When news broke of a major class-action lawsuit against Golda Ice Cream for mislabeling products as "sugar-free" despite containing sugar levels well above permitted limits, it ignited a public health controversy. But beyond consumer protection law, this case opens up critical questions in Choshen Mishpat regarding commercial ethics, truth in advertising, and financial integrity.In this episode, we examine the legal and moral principles governing consumer transactions and false representation in halacha:Geneivat Da'at (Deception): How does Jewish law define misrepresentation in marketing, and what is the strict prohibition against misleading consumers—even when no direct financial harm is intended?Mekach Ta'at (Transactions Under False Pretenses): Does purchasing a product based on false health claims render the entire transaction void, requiring a full refund?Ona'ah & Financial Misrepresentation: How does halacha evaluate overcharging or misrepresenting the true nature and value of a product, and what remedies are available to affected buyers?Consumer Redress: What are the halachic obligations of a business when corporate negligence or deception leads to widespread public harm?Join us for an in-depth analysis of classic sources and modern responsa as we explore how halacha governs modern commercial disputes and upholds standards of honesty in the marketplace.

Parashat Nitzavim-Vayelech 5786

Short ideas to prepare for Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur

"Aliyah L'Regel": An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.The calendar sequence of the High Holidays seems intuitively backwards: why stand trial and receive our annual judgment on Rosh Hashanah before we undergo the intense process of cleansing and repentance on Yom Kippur?In this episode, we unpack the unique structural mechanics of the Tishrei holidays through three core questions:Joy vs. Awe: Is there a formal mitzvah of Simcha (joy) on Rosh Hashanah as there is on the Shalosh Regalim (Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot), or does the gravity of judgment fundamentally change the nature of the day?The Structural Paradox: Why does the Day of Judgment precede the Day of Atonement? How does this specific sequence reshape our understanding of teshuva and our relationship with God?The Power of Coronation: What is the actual potential impact of our prayers on Rosh Hashanah, and how does crowning God as King on day one set the stage for total forgiveness ten days later?Join us for a profound exploration into the internal rhythm of the High Holidays, offering fresh perspectives to transform your spiritual preparation for the New Year.

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.With the steep rise in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among IDF veterans, service dogs have shifted from a medical novelty to a vital, life-saving therapeutic tool. But as these essential support animals enter daily religious life, they bring complex halachic questions to the forefront of modern Jewish law.In this episode, we examine the intersection of mental health, compassion, and Jewish legal framework regarding service animals and pets:Pet Ownership: What is the fundamental stance of halacha regarding keeping dogs in the home?Shabbat Protocols: Are dogs strictly muktzah on Shabbat? Does the legal status change when a dog provides companionship, emotional support, or essential service to an ill person?Surgical Interventions: How does the Torah's prohibition against castrating animals (Sirus) apply when neutering is a required step for service dog training and temperament?Sanctity of the Shul: May a veteran or individual relying on a service dog bring the animal directly into a synagogue during services?Join us for an in-depth analysis of classic sources and modern responsa as we explore how halacha responds to the psychological wounds of war and balances the dignity of the individual with traditional legal boundaries.

Shiur to prepare for Rosh Hashanah delivered in Tel Aviv to FJL Alumni and friends:How much of Hashem's judgment on Rosh Hashanah is based on my good vs. bad deeds and how much is dependent on my "mazal"/flow?How do I set my mind on what is important to think about and pray for on Rosh Hashanah?How do I successfully invite Hashem's mercy into my life through my interactions with others?

Shiur to FJL Global Alumni (on Zoom) to prepare for the upcoming holiday of Rosh Hashanah.The shiur covered:How to set our mind and soul for the flow of weeks starting from Elul leading into Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat TorahHow can Rosh Hashanah be called a holiday when it is the Day of Judgment?Why is Rosh Hashanah a uniquely Jewish holiday when we are celebrating the birthday of humanity, a universal day?What should we be praying for on Rosh Hashanah: personal needs or Hashem's "needs"?

שיעור בסגנון "כולל יום שישי" בבית כנסת לכו נרננה, רעננה על פרשת השבוע

A Rosh Chodesh Av shiur with FJL's Next Chapter with Rabbi Effie Kleinberg.As we stand on the threshold of the Nine Days, we encounter one of the most enigmatic moments in Talmudic history: Rabbi Akiva laughing amidst the ruins of the Beit HaMikdash while his colleagues wept. How could a leader find joy in the face of absolute devastation? In this powerful shiur, we delve into the spiritual vision of Rabbi Akiva, uncovering how a shift in perspective can transform our experience of the Three Weeks from a period of passive mourning into a season of visionary hope.The Tears and the Laughter: Deconstructing the famous Talmudic narrative of the foxes on the Temple Mount, and understanding how Rabbi Akiva's perspective pierced through the immediate tragedy of exile to see the ultimate promise of redemption.The Power of Visionary Faith: How cultivating "Akiva's eyes" allows us to look past physical destruction and see the latent holiness and rebuilding waiting to burst forth from the ruins.Transforming Mourning into Meaning: Practical insights on how to channel the heavy, somber energy of the Nine Days into a constructive force that fuels our personal and collective spiritual growth.Piercing the Veil of Darkness: Why the deepest light is hidden within the darkest times, and how we can access the hidden joy and reassurance buried beneath the restrictions of this solemn season.Whether you are looking to find deep meaning in the restrictions of the Nine Days or seeking a structured spiritual roadmap to navigate this solemn season, this episode provides the essential framing to transform your sorrow into a powerful, purposeful longing.

A Rosh Chodesh Av shiur with FJL's Next Chapter with Rabbi Effie Kleinberg.As we begin the Hebrew month of Av, we are met with the famous rabbinic dictum: "Mishenichnas Av mema’atin be’simcha"—when Av enters, we diminish our joy. But how do we practically process this shift without falling into despair? In this insightful shiur, we unpack the deeper psychological and spiritual mindset we must cultivate during this season, reframing the "lessening of joy" not as a spiritual void, but as a catalyst for profound longing and connection.The Paradox of Diminishing Joy: Understanding the halachic and emotional mandate of Av, and how lowering our external celebratory volume allows us to tune into our internal spiritual frequency.From Absence to Anticipation: How the vacuum created by "lessened joy" is designed to be filled with a constructive, deep-seated longing (ga'agu'im) for the Beit HaMikdash and ultimate redemption.Navigating the Emotional Shift: Practical strategies for shifting our daily mindset to the reflective, quiet yearning of the Three Weeks and the Nine Days.Longing as a Catalyst for Growth: Why the pain of exile is not meant to paralyze us, but to ignite a passionate drive to build, repair, and prepare ourselves for a future of revealed goodness.Whether you are looking to find meaning in the restrictions of the Nine Days or seeking a structured spiritual roadmap to navigate this solemn season, this episode provides the essential framing to transform your sorrow into a powerful, purposeful longing.

Opening shiur of the FJL Next Chapter 2026 cohort with Rabbi Effie Kleinberg. When we stand on the precipice of a major life transition, how do we navigate the shift from the structured environments of our past to the uncharted horizons of our future? In this powerful launch session, Rabbi Kleinberg unpacks a curated journey of classical and Chassidic sources to redefine how we view growth, accountability, and the spiritual framework of our lives. The Anatomy of a Transition (Identity & Name Changes): Why structural milestones in life require a fundamental shift in our internal identity, moving from Abram to Abraham and stepping entirely out of pre-destined astrology (Mazzal). The Corridor and the Horizon: Navigating the "ante-chamber" of this world, the ultimate questions we face, and cultivating a distinct "thirst" for continuous growth. The Mistake of the Spies & Dynamic Accountability: Unpacking a profound insight from the Netziv and the Lubavitcher Rebbe on why entering the "real world" isn't a spiritual downgrade, but rather our ultimate calling—to build a Dirah BeTachtonim (a dwelling place for the Divine) within the grit of everyday life. The Practical Growth Matrix: Why sustainable growth requires a smooth ramp rather than destabilizing steps, and the essential requirement of finding genuine joy and sweetness (Areivut) in our study and pursuits. Whether you are finishing university, launching a career, or entering a new phase of personal leadership, this episode serves as your strategic and spiritual roadmap for stepping into your own next chapter.

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Building on our previous discussion about Israel-Diaspora tensions, this episode takes a deeper, more introspective look at what moving to Israel actually demands of a person spiritually. Grounded in several chapters from Rav Moshe Taragin’s book on redemption, we tackle a concept rarely spoken about openly: the unique "opportunity cost" of making Aliyah.When a Jew makes the move, they leave behind a structured, familiar community and are suddenly exposed to the raw, beautiful, and often challenging diversity of Am Yisrael. We explore how this transition forces a shift toward a future-oriented worldview—one that is vividly manifested in the modern, forward-looking Hebrew names Israelis choose for their children. Tune in for a profound class grappling with what Aliyah truly looks and feels like from a spiritual and existential point of view.

"Aliyah L'Regel": An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.As the spring months unfold, Jewish communities around the world share a timeless tradition: the weekly study of Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers). But often, we read these brief, punchy ethical maxims as abstract advice detached from the human beings who uttered them.This episode offers a fresh, biographical lens into these classic texts by focusing on the recurring phrase, “Hu haya omer” ("He used to say"). We explore a profound concept championed by great Jewish thinkers: a Sage's teaching wasn't just a collection of nice words; it was the ultimate distillation of their entire life’s mission. Tune in as we examine how the specific Tannaim (Mishnaic Sages) completely embodied the essence of their own statements in their day-to-day choices, struggles, and historical contexts, turning ancient ethics into a living, breathing map for character development.

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.What counts as a true emergency when it comes to breaking Shabbat? While we know that saving a life (Pikuach Nefesh) overrides almost all Torah prohibitions, modern scenarios push the boundaries of this rule to its absolute limits.In this episode, we dive into a fascinating class analyzing two high-stakes modern dilemmas: bio-weapon defense and vaccine development. When researchers are racing against the clock to combat a global threat or engineer life-saving vaccines, can that work continue through Shabbat? To answer that, we have to unpack a fundamental Halachic question: How exactly does Jewish law define a "life-threatening" situation? Is it limited to an immediate, present danger, or does it extend to preventing a future, systemic threat?Tune in as we explore the complex balance between preserving the sanctity of Shabbat and safeguarding human life in an era of rapid technological and medical advancement.

"Aliyah L'Regel": An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.If you look closely at the text of the Torah, a surprising omission stands out: the holiday of Shavuot is never explicitly linked to the historical event of Matan Torah (the giving of the Torah). Instead, the Torah frames it purely as an agricultural milestone, arriving at the culmination of a strict 50-day countdown from Pesach. Why is that?In this episode, we dive into the "50-Day Debate" and explore why later Jewish thinkers and the Sages felt it was absolutely vital to consciously connect Shavuot with Sinai. We unpack the deeper theological and spiritual mechanics behind the counting of the Omer, asking a fundamental question: How does anchoring this seasonal harvest holiday in a historic, covenantal moment completely redefine our relationship with Torah, time, and the Jewish calendar?

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.When prominent Israeli journalist Hagai Segal published an opinion piece calling Diaspora Jews who haven't moved to Israel "traitors," it sparked an immediate, fierce wave of controversy, rebuttals, and soul-searching across the Jewish world. But beyond the shocking headline, what does this clash reveal about the deeper relationship between Israel and world Jewry?In this episode, we unpack that explosive op-ed and analyze the powerful counterarguments it provoked. Rather than focusing solely on the polemics, we look at the bigger picture: What do Diaspora Jewish communities actually talk about when they discuss Aliyah today? Join us as we explore the evolving internal dialogue surrounding Zionism, obligation, and identity, and how this modern debate shapes the way Jews around the world view their place in Jewish history.

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.It’s the ultimate Pesach nightmare: you pay thousands of dollars for a luxury, all-inclusive Passover program, only to arrive and find empty kitchens, broken promises, and chaotic organization—a scenario the kosher travel world dubbed "Moroccogate."When a high-end holiday program completely falls apart, what does Jewish business law say happens next? In this episode’s class, we look past the social media drama to analyze the strict legal realities of Choshen Mishpat (Jewish monetary law). We tackle the big questions: Where is the line between aggressive marketing and outright false advertising (Gneivat Da'at)? Is the operator halachically obligated to issue a full refund when a vacation is ruined? And perhaps most controversially—does the customer bear any responsibility to do their due diligence, or does the burden rest entirely on the organizer?Join us for a fascinating look at consumer rights, business ethics, and financial accountability in Jewish law.

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers.Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Uncovering the miraculous nature of Yom Yerushalayim and the profound spiritual weight of its Hallel. How does the liberation of our holiest city add a vital layer to the sovereignty of Yom Haatzmaut, and what steps can we take to deepen our appreciation for this day? We also explore the origins of the name Jerusalem, tracing the linguistic and historical roots of the City of Gold.

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people.Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring two foundational questions of national purpose: What is next for Israel to accomplish for itself? If you were tasked with creating an itinerary for a visiting diplomat to Israel, where would you take them and why?

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.We analyze the Halakhic status of the Western Wall through the lens of traditional authority. We examine the legal definition of the Wall as a Beit Knesset and the theological implications of state-sanctioned mixed prayer. This session explores the delicate balance between public outreach and the preservation of Torah integrity, asking if the pursuit of inclusivity can coexist with the absolute sanctity of the "Palace of the King."

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers.Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the spiritual depths of Pesach Sheini and Lag BaOmer. What does the "Second Passover" teach us about the power of second chances and the profound yearning for a "real" Pesach experience? We also delve into the significance of Lag BaOmer, examining the light and legacies of Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai.

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people.Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring two foundational questions of national purpose: What does Hashem care most about regarding the modern State? Furthermore, if you were tasked with writing a national anthem for Israel, what essential values and themes would you choose to include in its verses?

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the ethical frontiers and Halakhic applications of CRISPR and gene-editing technology. We examine the tension between the mandate to heal and the preservation of the natural order, specifically addressing whether "correcting" the human genome is a fulfillment of our divine partnership or an overstep of human authority.

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.If you were tasked with building the itinerary for a state visit of a foreign leader to Israel, what sites are "must-visits" and why?

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the question and halachic application of a driver who had his license suspended after being caught speeding. The driver claimed he was trying to get to safety due to the rocket sirens in the area during the weeks of the "Roaring Lions" war.

Prepare for Pesach with new activities to engage your guests, conversation-starters, and themes to discuss Pesach's eternal message in the modern world

Shiur to MTC students pre-Pesach - connecting Eli Sharabi's testimony of his experiences in captivity with themes of Pesach

The beauty behind Parashat HaChodesh, the month of Nisan, and Pesach's eternal message.Shiur delivered to FJL alumni.

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Preparing for Pesach!How do we explain the contrasts at the Seder which is meant to be a night of celebration and joy? Why introduce the tension of Jewish enslavement, suffering, and persecution?How does the complexity of Seder night reflect upon the entire year?

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.This class focuses on Rav Kook's "Orot" (Lights) Milchama essay and the main points of the spiritual depth behind wars, in light of the war Israel is fighting against Iran, called "The Roar Of The Lion".

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the Jewish legal discussion on the topic of allowing weddings to occur during the first part of Sefirat HaOmer during a period of war and instability, as well as the issue of the urgency of celebrating weddings over other life cycle events.

Shiur in preparation for Purim delivered in London to the FJL-JAcademy group.

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Preparing for Purim!Does one fulfill Matanot L'Evyonim if the money being donated is given to the needy before Purim day? What about a bank transfer or check?The Sefat Emet's idea about the name of the month "Adar"The Netivot Shalom's guide to navigating periods of spiritual "hester panim" in history and how to strive through these timesRav Yitzchak Hutner's opening essay in Pachad Yitzchak on Purim where he discusses the concept of "leitzanut" and the battle between Amalek and the Jewish people over how to see the world

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.This class focuses on Rav Soloveitchik's lecture "Kol Dodi Dofek" delivered on Yom HaAtzmaut in 1956 and analyzes the section of the presentation known as the "The Six Knocks"

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the Jewish legal discussion on the topic of conversion to Judaism when a convert is prepared to accept the mitzvot but ideologically maintains antisemitic views about the Jewish people.

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring the Jewish legal discussion on the topic of MAID as it becomes legalized and discussed in health systems across the globe

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat ChesedWhat role does each of us play in bringing the redemption closer?What does it mean to be a Zionist?What does it mean to be a Religious Zionist?

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Preparing for Purim!Does one fulfill Mishloach Manot if the food being delivered does not meet the kashrut standards of the recipient?Why did Hashem enable Amalek and Haman to attack and persecute the Jewish people?

"Medinat Yisrael and My Jewish Identity": Significant issues and moments in the history of the modern State of Israel and how they have shaped and impacted the identity of the Jewish people. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Exploring a fascinating custom some have to feed birds specifically on the Shabbat of Beshalach and the special nature of Tu Bishvat

Class with FJL AlumniDeep dive into the role of 6 women in the book of Shemot who played a pivotal role in bringing about the salvation and redemption of the Jewish people in Egypt.

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.This class discusses the weekly practice of 'shnayim mikra v'echad Targum' in honor of starting the book and parasha of Shemot, and an introduction to the weeks of 'Shovevim'

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.In memory of those who lost their lives in the Switzerland fire on Jan 1, 2026.Topic explores the question of identifying the deceased using scientific methods of DNA, circumstantial evidence in light of the New Year's fire at the restaurant in Switzerland, the Oct. 7 massacre, and 9/11

Aliyah L'Regel: An inspirational journey through the Jewish Calendar through the lens presented by teachings of great Jewish thinkers. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.This class discusses the custom to refrain from Torah study on the night between December 24 & 25 and how a Jew should approach New Years Eve/The Secular Calendar

"From Holocaust to Redemption": Presenting Topics and themes on the Holocaust with their contemporary applications. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat ChesedClass focuses on America's role in the Holocaust and the heroism of Ori Danino on Oct. 7

"Ripped From The Headlines": Presenting topics in current events considered through the lens of Jewish law and thought. Class delivered at Midreshet Torat Chesed.Topic explores the question of ma'arit ayin when it comes to the use of cow-free/pareve milk after one has eaten meat, and/or cooking together meat