PODCAST · religion
The Shmuz
by JewishPodcasts.fm
Welcome to The Shmuz Podcast! Here’s your chance to infuse an inspiring dose of ruchnius, encouragement and positivity into your day. But don’t just stop here. Go to TheShmuz.com and gain access to hundreds of motivational Shmuzin that are guaranteed to accelerate your spiritual growth
Episodes
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For those working with young couples: How to assess a marriage
You're a kallah teacher...a new Rov...a LCSW...and someone comes to you with a marriage issue. What's your next move? In his latest high-impact webinar, Rabbi Shafier reveals the exact blueprint he uses to guide couples through crisis. Here’s what you’ll discover in the replay: * The #1 phrase…
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Lech Lecha: A Diamond With a Flaw
Imagine two diamonds. One is completely flawless. The other has a tiny imperfection. Which is worth more? The answer might surprise you. Rabbi Shafier shares a powerful lesson from Avraham Avinu about the danger of becoming so consumed by our shortcomings that we lose sight of everything we've...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Lech Lecha
The Courage to Be Imperfect How could Avraham Avinu fail a test and still be praised for passing it? Rabbi Shafier explores a fascinating contradiction in Parshas Lech Lecha that challenges the way we think about success, failure, and personal growth. Why do we find it so difficult to admit when...
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Shmuz #325 The Moon Was Jealous
Can the moon really complain to Hashem? Can the earth make decisions? And what does any of this have to do with you? Rabbi Shafier takes us beyond the familiar stories of Parshas Bereishis to reveal an extraordinary dimension of creation that we rarely stop to consider. Discover how every mitzvah...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha Noach: The Dangerous Assumption Behind Every Argument
How did the Dor Haflaga go from complete unity to fighting so bitterly that they could no longer live together? The answer reveals a mistake we all make, often without even realizing it. Rabbi Shafier explores why we assume other people see the world exactly as we do, how that assumption fuels...
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Parshas Noach: Don't Give Up
Noach spent 120 years building the Teivah and warning his generation about the coming Mabul. Yet Rashi tells us that even Noach didn't fully believe it would happen. How is that possible? Rabbi Shafier explores the surprising gap between what we know to be true and what we actually feel…
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Shmuz #6 It's Not Geneivah, It's Shtick (Parshas Bereishis)
You know what turns people off living an authentic Jewish life? Jews not living an authentic Jewish life. Of course, we all consider ourselves ehrliche yidden. We’d never steal. But when it comes to the government… taxes… some people “mach shtick”. It’s not geneivah, it’s “shtick”! Rashi’s first...
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A Short Shmuz on Succos: Just Ask for Mercy
What happens when you don't have a good argument for why Hashem should say yes? Rabbi Shafier reveals one of the most powerful ideas behind tefillah: we don't always have to come before Hashem because we're worthy or because we deserve what we're asking for. Sometimes we can simply ask for...
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The Shmuz on Succos: Elusive Happiness
The Torah tells us to be happy on Yom Tov. But how can you be commanded to feel something? Rabbi Shafier reveals that the key to simchas Yom Tov isn't pretending to be happy, but learning to notice how much good we already have. From the food we eat to the colours we see and the everyday comforts...
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The Ushpizin: Breaking the Forces of Habit
Every night of Succos, we welcome the Ushpizin into our sukkah. But what can these great figures teach us about the way we live? Through a fascinating question about Yaakov Avinu, Rabbi Shafier reveals how even moments of tremendous inspiration can disappear if we simply return to life on...
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Shmuz - 324 - Teshuvah - A Diamond with a Flaw
Yom Kippur forces us to confront the things we've done wrong. But how do you honestly admit your failures without allowing them to define you? Rabbi Shafier reveals the crucial difference between being flawed and being a failure, and why even the greatest people in history made mistakes. Through...
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Yom Kippur: The Voice Inside Your Head
Not every thought that pops into your head deserves to be believed. Rabbi Shafier takes you inside the battle with the Yetzer Hara, revealing how it can make the wrong choice seem reasonable, convince you you're incapable of changing, and even turn against you after you fall. But that struggle…
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Yom Kippur: Finding the Real You
Why is it so easy to see what everyone else is doing wrong, yet so difficult to recognize our own mistakes? Rabbi Shafier reveals one of the most powerful tricks of the human mind: once we want something, our brain becomes remarkably good at explaining why we're right. Through the shocking story…
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Yom Kippur: Appreciating and Achieving Greatness
You put on tefillin. You hold back one piece of lashon hara. You say one tefillah with real kavana. It can feel like such a small thing. But what if the true impact of that mitzvah is far greater than anything you can see? Rabbi Shafier reveals a fascinating picture of how your choices affect not...
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Yom Kippur: Start Talking
You've decided what needs to change. You've made a plan. You're determined that this time will be different. So why do we so often find ourselves right back where we started? In this eye-opening shmuz, Rabbi Shafier reveals a missing piece in the way many of us approach teshuvah: real change…
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Understanding Your Purpose on Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur isn't only about looking back at what you've done wrong. It's also an opportunity to look forward and ask a much bigger question: Am I becoming the person I'm supposed to be? Rabbi Shafier explains why your job isn't to measure yourself against anyone else, but to understand the unique...
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How to Make this Yom Kippur Meaningful, Powerful and Inspiring
What if the real question on Yom Kippur isn't only what you've done wrong, but what you've done with your life? Rabbi Shafier explains that each of us was given a unique set of strengths, weaknesses, circumstances, and challenges for one purpose: to become the person only we can become. Yom…
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Ha'azinu
Is there anything you've done that is simply too big to undo? Any mistake that puts you beyond the reach of teshuvah? In this powerful shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the extraordinary story of Elisha ben Avuyah, a man who rose to incredible spiritual heights and then fell almost as far as a person...
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Shmuz - 323 - Rosh Hashanah
How should you feel on Rosh Hashanah? Joyful that Hashem is revealing Himself as King, or frightened by the knowledge that your future is being decided? In this powerful shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the surprising tension at the heart of Rosh Hashanah and why both emotions belong. He also…
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Shmuz - 322 - The Greatness of Man (Elul Shmuz)
In a world that constantly tells us our worth is defined by success, status, or social standing, Shmuz 322: The Greatness of Man delivers a powerful reality check: what if you lived today knowing your life was being written as a lasting biography? Watch Shmuz 322 to shift your perspective…
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Nitzavim Vayelech
What would change if you truly felt that Hashem was right there with you? We know Hashem is everywhere, yet turning that knowledge into something we actually experience is far more difficult. In this powerful shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai’s surprising final bracha to his...
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Shmuz 321: Bitachon and Histadlus (Elul Shmuz)
How much effort are you supposed to put in when you know the outcome is ultimately in Hashem’s hands? Finding the balance between bitachon and hishtadlus can be surprisingly difficult. Rabbi Shafier walks you through what your responsibility really is, how to know when you’ve done enough, and why...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Ki Seitzei: The Greatness of Man
What if you truly understood how much you matter? The Torah gives us a picture of the human being that is far greater than most of us imagine, with every mitzvah, every choice, and even every thought having an impact far beyond what we can see. In this powerful shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores what…
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Shmuz - 319 - The Nefesh HaBehami
Have you ever wondered why you can feel deeply inspired one moment, only to struggle with the exact opposite feeling a short time later? That contradiction is built into the human being, and understanding it can change the way you see yourself, your struggles, and even the mitzvahs you perform.…
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Shoftim: The Tiny Giant Called "I"
You want to be confident...but not arrogant. You want to work on your personal development, but cheshbon hanefesh is demoralizing. You know Hashem gave you talents and abilities- but are you ‘allowed’ to feel proud of your achievements? There are many contradictions when it comes to working on...
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The Marriage Seminar - Part 13: A Chosson's Guide (Only for Men)
Every smart young couple starts their marriage with the same dreams, goals and ideals. They’re one hundred percent sure that they will live in married bliss forever. Until they aren’t. Until the bickering, fighting and loneliness become second nature and they are left wondering where they went...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Re'eh
Finding Happiness in a World That Always Wants More We're surrounded by messages telling us we need more. A bigger house, a newer car, nicer clothes, the latest gadget. But do these things really make us happier? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores why we always seem to want...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Eikev: Decision Making Made Easy
Decision Making Made Easy If you're looking for a shmuz on how to banish self-doubt and regret, we have one based around this week's parsha that would be just perfect for you. Alternatively entitled 'Who Put That Thought in Your Head?!' it will give you Rabbi Shafier's three-step plan on how to...
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Judaism 101: A Day in the Life of Abraham
What does true greatness look like? In this inspiring class, Rabbi Shafier explores the extraordinary kindness of Abraham, known as Avraham Avinu, who, despite great pain and exhaustion, devoted himself completely to caring for others. Through the Torah’s powerful portrayal of Avraham’s…
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Tisha B'Av: The Truth About Baseless Hatred
Why do good people end up in bitter arguments with those they love most? And why does every side feel completely convinced they're right? In this powerful Tisha B'Av shmuz, Rabbi Shafier uncovers the surprising meaning of sinas chinam, revealing how the stories we tell ourselves can destroy...
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Shmuz - 319 - The Nefesh HaBahami
Why can you feel inspired one moment and completely unmotivated the next? Why do you genuinely want to do the right thing, yet still find yourself pulled in the opposite direction? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the Torah's fascinating understanding of human nature and...
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Judaism 101: I Never Do Anything Wrong
Why do people so often convince themselves that wrong is right? In this eye-opening class, Rabbi Shafier explores the human ability to justify almost any action and the inner struggle between truth, desire, and conscience. Drawing on psychology, history, and Torah wisdom, this lecture reveals why...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Devarim
The Three Rules of Criticism We all know criticism rarely works, yet it's one of the easiest habits to fall into. In this eye-opening shmuz, Rabbi Shafier reveals why even well-intentioned criticism so often pushes people away instead of inspiring change. Through powerful Torah sources, real-life...
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Judaism 101: Prayer
What would change if you truly felt that G-d was with you every moment of your life? In this powerful class, Rabbi Shafier explores the final teachings of Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai and the profound Jewish understanding of awe, prayer, and our relationship with G-d. Combining Torah wisdom with a...
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The Shmuz 318 Davening- Making it Real
It's easy to believe in Hashem in theory. Living with the awareness that He is with you every moment is something else entirely. In this powerful Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the difference between knowing about Hashem and truly feeling His presence. Discover why tefillah can sometimes feel...
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Shmuz – 0317 – Changing Currencies
What if the biggest obstacle to your growth isn't your circumstances, but the stories you tell yourself? In this eye-opening Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier reveals how your mind can blur reality, distort your priorities, and subtly lead you away from your values. Through a remarkable Gemara, powerful...
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The Shmuz Live 316: Understanding Life Settings
Why did Hashem put us in this world? And how would your life change if you truly understood the answer? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores one of life's biggest questions, revealing how every person is given a unique mission, carefully chosen challenges, and the exact...
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Judaism 101: Pleasures and Passions
Why did Hashem create human beings with desires, struggles, and limitations instead of giving us the instincts and abilities of animals? In this fascinating class, Rabbi Shafier explores the difference between pleasure and purpose, revealing how many of life’s frustrations are actually part of a...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Matos-Masai
Have you ever heard the three rules of criticism? Don’t do it Don’t do it Don’t do it Ok, everyone knows how it feels to be criticized. Everyone agrees that it’s damaging to our most precious relationships. Some people have lived under the shadow of criticism their whole life, and have the…
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Moshiach: What's in it for me?
Why do we mourn the Beis Hamikdash... if we don't even feel what's missing? In this thought-provoking Tisha B'Av shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores a question that will turn your perspective upside down. What if the anxiety, confusion, and emptiness so many people experience today aren't simply part…
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The Shmuz Live 315: Celebrating the Decree
What does genuine bitachon really mean? Is it believing that everything will work out the way we want? Drawing on the righteous women who left Egypt carrying tambourines in anticipation of future miracles, Rabbi Shafier explores the true meaning of trust in Hashem. This uplifting Shmuz offers a...
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The Shmuz on Shiva Asar B'Tammuz
Have you ever wondered why, if Hashem loves you so much, you don't always feel it? This powerful Shiva Asar B'Tammuz shmuz explores a question that touches every Jew. Through the remarkable story of Bilam and his donkey, Rabbi Shafier uncovers a profound insight into Hashem's relationship with…
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Pinchas
How To Restore Balance, Focus and Meaning to Your Life In this week’s Parsha, Pinchas is given the bris shalom after defending the honor of Hashem. Four hundred years ago, The Seforno explained that as a result of this gift, Pinchas was granted longevity. By living ‘at peace with himself’ Pinchas...
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Judaism 101: Heroes: Aspiring for Greatness
What separates ordinary people from those who achieve greatness? In this inspiring class, Rabbi Shafier explores the power of human potential through unforgettable stories of determination, courage, and personal growth. Drawing from Torah wisdom, history, and real-life examples, this lecture...
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Judaism 101: The Voice Inside
Why do so many people achieve success yet still feel empty inside? In this thought-provoking class, Rabbi Shafier explores the connection between inner peace, physical health, and genuine happiness, revealing why external success alone can never satisfy the soul. Blending Torah wisdom with...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha - 02 - Shemos - 01 - Shemos - Emunah and Bitachon: Do You Understand the Difference?
You know that your year is decreed on Rosh Hashanah. Every aspect of your life is carefully designed by your Creator. You also know that you’re commanded to do your hishtadlus and daven that Hashem rewards your efforts. But how much hishtadlus is too much? How am I meant to tell when Hashem’s...
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Judaism 101: Appreciating Our Wealth
Why do people so often focus on what is missing instead of appreciating what they already have? In this uplifting class, Rabbi Shafier explores the incredible amount of goodness G-d places into your life and why true happiness depends on learning to recognize it. Through powerful examples and...
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The Shmuz Live 313a: The Staggering Reward for Mitzvos
Rabbi Shafier explores one of the most empowering ideas in Jewish thought: the immense significance of every individual and every mitzvah. Through a profound examination of what it means to be created b'tzelem Elokim, he reveals how each person's actions impact far more than they can see This...
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The Shmuz on the Parsha: Tested to the Max
Our weekly Shmuz Live will be on a super-relevant topic this week: What to do when your bitachon is tested to the max. We’ve all got ‘stuff’. Baggage. Static. Nisyonos. We all need a Torah perspective to know how to respond to both major world events as well as the everyday traffic of life. This...
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Marriage Workshop, Recorded Live at Chazaq
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to The Shmuz Podcast! Here’s your chance to infuse an inspiring dose of ruchnius, encouragement and positivity into your day. But don’t just stop here. Go to TheShmuz.com and gain access to hundreds of motivational Shmuzin that are guaranteed to accelerate your spiritual growth
HOSTED BY
JewishPodcasts.fm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Shmuz have?
The Shmuz currently has 1000 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Shmuz about?
Welcome to The Shmuz Podcast! Here’s your chance to infuse an inspiring dose of ruchnius, encouragement and positivity into your day. But don’t just stop here. Go to TheShmuz.com and gain access to hundreds of motivational Shmuzin that are guaranteed to accelerate your spiritual growth
How often does The Shmuz release new episodes?
The Shmuz releases new episodes frequently with a large back catalog of 1000 episodes. Check the episode list for recent publication dates.
Where can I listen to The Shmuz?
You can listen to The Shmuz on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Shmuz?
The Shmuz is created and hosted by JewishPodcasts.fm.
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