Who was Abraham Joshua Heschel, and why does his life story matter to young Jews today? In this episode, Rabbi Or Rose and rabbinical student Risa Dunbar explore these questions through the lens of Or's new young adult biography, My Legs Were Praying. Their conversation reveals how a boy from Warsaw who grew up in a Hasidic dynasty became one of the most influential Jewish thinkers and activists of the 20th century.

Or emphasizes how Heschel dedicated his life to articulating the beauty and profundity of Judaism while working across religious and secular lines for justice and peace. And Risa discusses the comprehensive educational resources she developed to accompany the book, including discussion guides and lesson plans that help readers explore themes of wonder, responsibility, and the integration of prayer and social action.

Get full show notes and more information here: http://hebrewcollege.edu/podcast-27

How can Jewish tradition help us build a world that embraces all bodies? In this episode, we share a powerful conversation between Rabbi Minna Bromberg, author of the new book Every Body Beloved, and her friend and colleague, Jordan Namerow.

Through personal letters, mystical teachings, and reexamined Jewish texts, you'll discover how pursuing health as a mitzvah can include mental and spiritual well-being, not just physical appearance. You'll learn why naming ourselves accurately matters for both fat liberation and Jewish identity, and how being willing to stay with what's painful can build both compassion and fearlessness.

Get full show notes and more information here: http://hebrewcollege.edu/podcast-26

Rabbi Lavitt shares insights from Jewish Studio Project's innovative approach, which combines Torah study with creative practice. Drawing from both ancient Jewish wisdom and modern neuroscience, he explains how creativity allows us to access deeper ways of knowing and understanding. This integration of traditional texts with artistic exploration opens new pathways for problem-solving and personal growth.

Tune in to examine foundational Jewish teachings about creativity. Through practical examples and a structured creative process, Rabbi Lavitt demonstrates how engaging in creative practice helps regulate our nervous systems, process challenging experiences, and discover new perspectives on persistent problems.

Get full show notes and more information here: http://hebrewcollege.edu/podcast-25