On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Joy Zelikovsky founder and director of NourishTheHeartCounseling.com discusses the complexities of eating disorders, body image, and their impact on individuals and families. She emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural influences, the role of social media, and the need for a broader definition of health that goes beyond weight.



The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by different demographics, including men and older adults, in relation to eating disorders. Dr. Zelikovsky provides insights into recognizing warning signs and offers advice for parents and grandparents concerned about their loved ones’ eating behaviors.



Dr. Zelikovsky is sponsoring a conference this fall for Jewish eating disorder professionals. More information is available at https://www.jewisheatingdisorderprofessionalsconference.org/



Takeaways




* Eating disorders can affect individuals of all ages, not just adolescents.



* Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping body image and eating behaviors.



* Social media perpetuates unrealistic body standards and can impact mental health.



* Eating disorders are often linked with other mental health issues like anxiety and depression.



* There is a strong genetic predisposition to eating disorders, but environmental factors also contribute.



* Men are often underdiagnosed for eating disorders due to societal perceptions.



* The concept of health should not be solely based on weight; other factors are crucial.



* Cultural traditions, especially those involving food, can complicate recovery from eating disorders.



* Parents should be aware of behavioral changes in their children that may indicate an eating disorder.



* Support and open communication are vital for families dealing with eating disorders.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



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About the Guest











Joy Zelikovsky, Psy.D., M.A., M.Phil.Ed., M.S.Ed



Joy Zelikovsky is a clinical psychologist and National Health ...

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar (upper right corner), assistant rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami, Cherry Hill, NJ, and Pam Austin (lower right) and Joey Lieberson (lower left), two participants in a program she organized called “Gesher.” The intergenerational initiative at Congregation Kol Ami aimed at fostering relationships between younger and older members of the community.



Rabbi Milan-Polisar discusses the program’s origins, its impact on Joey and Pamela, and the lessons learned about the importance of personal relationships and community building.



The discussion highlights the positive experiences of both elders and students, emphasizing the hope and connection that emerged from their interactions. Future plans for the program include expanding its reach and continuing to foster intergenerational connections within the Jewish community.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



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About the Guests











Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar



Rabbi Milan-Polisar is the Assistant Rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami in Cherry Hill, NJ. Originally from Irvington, NY, Rabbi Milan-Polisar attended Brandeis University in Waltham, MA, where she studied Sociology and Near Eastern and Judaic Studies. She was ordained as a rabbi in May 2021 from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York, NY. Before joining the Kol Ami community in 2023, Rabbi Milan-Polisar served as a Campus Rabbi and Rabbinic Innovation Fellow at Penn Hillel in Philadelphia, PA. In her free time, you can find her reading contemporary fiction, trying homemade pasta recipes, or fostering dogs. Rabbi Ariel Milan-Polisar lives in Cherry Hill, NJ with her husband Jason and their dog Lucy.






Pam Austin



I was raised at a Conservative synagogue in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the eldest of four children. I became a Confirmand and attended Hebrew High through 12th grade. I received a BS degree in English, and a Masters of Education degree in Remedial Education at Miami University (OH.) After 40 years of teaching at high schools and community colleges, I retired in 2016. The last 35 years of my career, I was the Reading Specialist at Voorhees Middle School. There I started an intergenerational club, called Adopt-a-Grandparent, and I took students to bimonthly visits at local nursing and assisted living facilities.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address interviews Lisa Pahl, a licensed clinical social worker and creator of the Death Deck, a tool designed to facilitate conversations about death, dying, and end-of-life preferences. The discussion explores the importance of normalizing these conversations, the adaptability of the Death Deck for various audiences, including solo agers and younger generations, and the cultural attitudes towards death in society. Lisa shares insights on how humor can help ease the discomfort surrounding death discussions and the role of the Death Deck in addressing death anxiety.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guest











Lisa Pahl



Lisa Pahl is co-creator of The Death Deck and The E•O•L Deck, tools that inspire meaningful conversations on what matters most in our lives and in our deaths. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 17 years of experience within hospice and emergency medicine, Pahl helps people cope with illness, dying, and grief. With a passionate belief that peace at the end begins with meaningful conversations over time, she engages people in talking about and preparing for this important stage of life.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Arielle Berger, a geriatrician and rabbinic student, exploring the intersection of medicine, spirituality, and aging.



Dr. Berger shares her journey from medicine to the rabbinate, emphasizing the importance of spirituality in patient care and the need for a shift in how society views aging. They discuss the ethical implications of medical aid in dying and the role of Jewish values in healthcare, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate approach to aging and healthcare.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guest











Dr. Arielle Berger



Dr. Arielle Berger is a geriatrician and assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto. She has a clinical practice at Toronto Grace Health Center in downtown Toronto and is an experienced educator, teaching communication and professionalism skills to doctors in training and in practice. She is currently pursuing rabbinic ordination through the Shalom Hartman Institute, hoping to address both physical and spiritual needs of the aging Jewish community in Toronto.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Paul Kipnes discusses his book, The Secret Life of the Mourner, which explores his personal journey through grief after losing his father. The conversation delves into the therapeutic power of poetry, the role of a rabbi in mourning, the significance of rituals like sitting Shiva, and the importance of community support during times of loss. Rabbi Kipnes reflects on the complexities of parent-child relationships, forgiveness, and the necessity of creating new rituals to help individuals process their grief. His conversation with Rabbi Address emphasizes the need for permission to mourn and the liberation that comes from articulating one’s feelings.




The Secret Life of the Mourner: A Poetic Journey Through a Year of Grief is a heartfelt exploration of loss, love, and the complex emotions that define mourning. After the unexpected loss of his father, Paul Kipnes embarked on a deeply personal journey through grief, uncovering what he calls the “secret life of the mourner.” This collection of poignant poetry captures the raw, often hidden layers of emotion that mourners experience — sadness, relief, guilt, reflection, and moments of profound connection. Drawing from his own experience as a mourner and years as a clergyperson guiding others through the valley of the shadow of death, Kipnes invites readers into an intimate conversation with grief. Written with unflinching honesty and poetic simplicity, these verses transcend theology and intellect, speaking directly to the heart. Poetry, with its ability to convey the inexpressible, becomes a vessel for the emotions that often defy articulation. The Secret Life of the Mourner is a companion for those who grieve, a resource for loved ones seeking understanding, and a tool for caregivers, clergy, and ritual leaders. Whether read in quiet reflection or shared during moments of mourning, these poems illuminate the universal truths of loss and the resilience of the human spirit. Ultimately, this book is a gift—a raw, real, and deeply moving tribute to the enduring bond between the living and the lost, reminding us that even in the shadow of grief, love endures and memories become blessings.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



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About the Guest

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Lance Sussman discusses his latest book, the third in a memoir trilogy, titled Portrait of a Rabbi-Historian: How Did We Get Here? The conversation explores the evolution of American Judaism, the role of a Rabbi Historian, and the historical context of Jewish rights in America. Rabbi Sussman discusses key figures like Isaac Leeser and the impact of social justice on Reform Judaism, as well as the significance of Albert Einstein’s 1934 speech at Knesset Israel.




What does it mean to be both a rabbi and a historian in modern America?



In Portrait of a Rabbi-Historian: How Did We Get Here?, Rabbi Lance J. Sussman, Ph.D., presents a compelling anthology of essays exploring the evolution of American Jewish history, Reform Judaism, and religious leadership through the eyes of a scholar deeply rooted in both pulpit and academia.



Spanning over forty years of research and reflection, this collection brings together 36 essays that examine topics such as American Jewish history before and after the Civil War, the role of figures like Isaac Leeser, the impact of the 1883 Trefa Banquet, and the transformation of synagogue architecture. Readers will discover fresh insights into the development of Jewish communities, the intersection of Jewish and American identities, and the challenges faced by Reform Jewish leadership.



Sussman’s work is deeply informed by Jewish historiography, original source analysis, and personal experience. His dual career as both rabbi and professor offers a rare perspective that blends academic rigor with lived spiritual engagement.



Perfect for readers interested in Jewish community studies, synagogue life, interfaith relations, and American religious history, this book offers not just historical facts, but a meaningful narrative of cultural continuity, faith, and change.



Whether you are a student of Jewish history, a member of the clergy, or a curious lay reader, this anthology invites you to explore how the American Jewish story has unfolded—and where it might go next.



Start your journey into American Jewish history today.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



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On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Michael Marmur discusses his book, Living the Letters: An Alphabet of Emerging Jewish Thought, which explores contemporary Jewish thought through the lens of the Hebrew alphabet. He delves into themes of anxiety as a catalyst for creativity, the tension between autonomy and covenant in modern Judaism, and the challenges of maintaining Jewish identity in a rapidly changing world. Marmur emphasizes the importance of hope amidst uncertainty and the need for a renewed commitment to Jewish practices that resonate with today’s realities.




In this work, Michael Marmur employs the structure of the Hebrew alphabet to set out elements of an emerging Jewish theology, presenting a case for the urgent relevance of Jewish life at a time of deepening rupture and accelerating change. He presents core components of a theory and practice of contemporary Judaism.



The Hebrew alphabet has long beguiled and preoccupied Biblical authors and liturgical poets, rationalists and mystics, conservatives and radicals. It has served as a locus of theological speculation, an engine of creativity and a recurrent motif throughout the cycle of life, from childhood instruction to graveside recitation. For each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Marmur proposes a concept, gleaned from theology, philosophy, ritual, politics, community and other fields. Readers are invited to combine and deploy them in imagining a Judaism of tomorrow.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guest











Rabbi Michael Marmur, Ph.D.



Michael Marmur is Associate Professor of Jewish Theology at Hebrew Union College/Jerusalem. Until July 2018 he served as the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Provost at Hebrew Union College, having previously been Dean of the Jerusalem campus. After some 20 years in administrative capacities, he now concentrates his energies on teaching and writing. 



Born and raised in England, Rabbi Marmur completed a B.A. Degree in Modern History at the University of Oxford before moving to Israel in 1984. While studying for an M.A. in Ancient Jewish History at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he completed his studies in the Israel Rabbinic Program of Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem, and was ordained in 1992.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbis Bennett Miller and Gary Glickstein discuss the activities of the National Association of Retired Reform Rabbis (NAORRR) and their collaboration with Maram, the professional organization for Reform rabbis in Israel. The discussion highlights the significance of these partnerships, the challenges faced by Reform rabbis, and the ongoing efforts to build connections between American and Israeli congregations.



Key Discussion Points




* The role of NAORRR in supporting retired Reform rabbis and fostering connections with Israeli colleagues.



* Insights into the collaboration with Maram and the impact of shared experiences and learning.



* The challenges faced by Reform rabbis in Israel, including societal tensions and security concerns.



* The importance of building bridges between American and Israeli congregations to foster mutual support and understanding.



* Future plans for NAORRR, including continued collaboration and support for Reform rabbis in Israel.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guests











Rabbi Gary Glickstein



Rabbi Gary A. Glickstein was the spiritual leader of Temple Beth Sholom between1985-2018. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1971. He continued his education at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received his rabbinical ordination in 1974.Rabbi Glickstein served as Assistant Rabbi of Congregation Bene Israel/Rockdale in Cincinnati, Ohio from 1974-1977 and then became Rabbi of Temple Sinai in Worcester, Massachusetts from 1977-1985.



In 1985, Rabbi Glickstein came to Temple Beth Sholom in Miami Beach as a vibrant, young scholar to serve as Senior Rabbi. His vitality and youthful approach have attracted many new members over the years as he has encouraged a greater involvement of the congregation in synagogue and Jewish life.



Rabbi Glickstein has distinguished himself as one of the leaders of the Miami community. He is the founding Executive Director of the Woldenberg Center for Jewish Life and serves on the advisory boards of the Lehrman Community Day School and the Greater Miami Coalition for a Drug Free Community. He is a board member and finance committee member of the Greater Miami J...

On this week’s encore episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the multifaceted nature of caregiving with Barry Jacobs and Julia Meyer, co-authors of the AARP Caregiver Answer Book. Jacobs and Meyer discuss the emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges faced by caregivers, emphasizing the importance of planning, support systems, and self-compassion.



Barry and Julia also provide insights into the complexities of caregiving, including long-distance care, end-of-life decisions, and the psycho-spiritual transformations that occur during this journey.




If you’re among the millions of people annually who take on the role of providing unpaid care to family, friends, or neighbors, you are sure to face tough questions. How do I coordinate the care my loved one needs? How can I get other relatives to pitch in? Who pays for all this? Husband-and-wife psychologists Barry J. Jacobs and Julia L. Mayer — who have counseled family caregivers for over 30 years and cared for their own aging parents for a decade — have answers. Written in a Q&A format, this easy-to-navigate guide is packed with information, problem-solving and coping ideas, resources, stories, and communication tips. Drs. Jacobs and Mayer compassionately address everything you need to know to help your parent, spouse, or other care receiver. From managing family conflicts to hiring aides to optimizing end-of-life care, this is a book to return to at every step of the journey.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









Listen to the Audio Podcast



You can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.







About the Guests











Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD



Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and family therapist who works with caregivers and care receivers in private practice in Media, Pennsylvania. He has written extensively about caregiving, including a long-running self-help column for caregivers on AARP.org, and is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Dr. Jacobs is also a Principal at a national health care consulting firm.






Julia L. Mayer, PsyD



Julia L. Mayer, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in Media, Pennsylvania, who specializes in working with women and has a growing focus on supporting caregivers. She is coauthor of articles and books on caregiving and relationships with her husban...

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address speaks with Wendy Green, a life transition coach and host of the Boomer Banter Podcast, about the various aspects of aging, including the importance of purpose, the challenges of ageism, and the significance of community connections. They explore the fears associated with aging, the concept of successful aging, and the impact of belief systems on one’s experience of growing older. Wendy shares her personal journey and insights on how to embrace authenticity and find meaning in life as we age.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guest











Wendy Green



Wendy Green is the host of the popular and inspirational Boomer Banter podcast, where each episode is dedicated to “Real Talk” about aging well. With a background in training and development, life coaching, and change leadership, Wendy brings a powerful blend of curiosity, compassion, and research-driven insight to every conversation — alongside some of the most dynamic and thought-provoking guests around.



A lifelong learner and dedicated coach, Wendy is passionate about living fully and helping others realize that it’s never too late to set a new goal or dream a new dream. Her mission with Boomer Banter is to create a safe and vibrant space where listeners come to grow, be inspired, and make the world a better place—for themselves and for future generations.



Outside the studio, Wendy takes immense pride in her two adult children and four wonderful grandchildren. Her home is also lovingly ruled by Pepper the cat, who is firmly convinced she’s in charge—and she just might be right.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Richard Address speaks with Carol Orsborn, author of Spiritual Aging: Weekly Reflections for Embracing Life. They explore the spiritual dimensions of aging, discussing how the later stages of life can be a time for personal growth, humility, and deeper understanding. Carol emphasizes the importance of faith, the acceptance of reality, and the value of solitude, while also addressing societal perceptions of loneliness and the myth of control. The conversation highlights the significance of finding joy in the present moment and the role of community in navigating the aging process.



About the Book




Presents years of weekly inspiration and practices pointing the way forward through every conceivable mood, opportunity, and stumbling block on the spiritual journey through the second half of life



• Includes quotes and stories by and about mystics, sages, and old souls from ancient through contemporary times who have walked this path before us



• Shares insightful guidance on transforming loneliness to solitude, loss of identity to freedom, anger to self-protection, fear to faith, and envy to love



Many of us navigating the years beyond midlife report high levels of self-acceptance, freedom, and joy, but there can also be bouts of second-guessing and regret as well as the occasional longing to be reminded that you’re not in this alone.



Designed to be read weekly in two-year cycles, the 120 timeless readings in this book focus on the issues and concerns that arise among those who view aging as a path to spiritual culmination. Transforming loneliness to solitude, loss of identity to freedom, anger to self-protection, fear to faith, and envy to love, Orsborn’s wise and compassionate insights are seasoned by quotes and stories by and about mystics, sages, and old souls from ancient through contemporary times who illuminate the path to living a full life while embracing old age. The connecting thread is the reminder that you have what it takes to shift from reacting with fear to the challenges of aging, instead accepting these challenges in a spirit of gratitude as they help you grow not just old, but whole.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









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About the Guest

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Dr. Angela Skrzynski, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, discusses the importance of sleep as we age, the changes in sleep patterns, and the impact of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. They discuss treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, and the role of telehealth in providing access to sleep medicine. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sleep for overall wellness and the need for individualized care.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









Listen to the Audio Podcast



You can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.







About the Guest











Angela Skrzynski, D.O.



Angela Skrzynski is a board certified family medicine and sleep medicine physician from southern New Jersey. She completed her sleep medicine training at the University of Michigan and since the COVID-19 pandemic, has been working as the lead physician for telehealth at one of South Jersey’s largest healthcare systems.



In 2023, she founded SleepPro CBT-i, a telemedicine practice that makes insomnia care easy and accessible. SleepPro CBT-i is the marriage of two of her great passions – sleep wellness and digital health.



Angela’s most important role in this world is as a wife and mother to three young girls.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address explores the multifaceted nature of caregiving with Barry Jacobs and Julia Meyer, co-authors of the AARP Caregiver Answer Book. Jacobs and Meyer discuss the emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges faced by caregivers, emphasizing the importance of planning, support systems, and self-compassion.



Barry and Julia also provide insights into the complexities of caregiving, including long-distance care, end-of-life decisions, and the psycho-spiritual transformations that occur during this journey.




If you’re among the millions of people annually who take on the role of providing unpaid care to family, friends, or neighbors, you are sure to face tough questions. How do I coordinate the care my loved one needs? How can I get other relatives to pitch in? Who pays for all this? Husband-and-wife psychologists Barry J. Jacobs and Julia L. Mayer — who have counseled family caregivers for over 30 years and cared for their own aging parents for a decade — have answers. Written in a Q&A format, this easy-to-navigate guide is packed with information, problem-solving and coping ideas, resources, stories, and communication tips. Drs. Jacobs and Mayer compassionately address everything you need to know to help your parent, spouse, or other care receiver. From managing family conflicts to hiring aides to optimizing end-of-life care, this is a book to return to at every step of the journey.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









Listen to the Audio Podcast



You can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.







About the Guests











Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD



Barry J. Jacobs, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and family therapist who works with caregivers and care receivers in private practice in Media, Pennsylvania. He has written extensively about caregiving, including a long-running self-help column for caregivers on AARP.org, and is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Dr. Jacobs is also a Principal at a national health care consulting firm.






Julia L. Mayer, PsyD



Julia L. Mayer, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in Media, Pennsylvania, who specializes in working with women and has a growing focus on supporting caregivers. She is coauthor of articles and books on caregiving and relationships with her husband,

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Rabbi Roy Furman about his book, Torah Wrestling.



They explore the moral challenges presented in the Torah, the significance of marginalized voices, and the reinterpretation of traditional narratives, including Eve’s role in the Garden of Eden and the sailors in the Book of Jonah. The discussion emphasizes the importance of wrestling with sacred texts to uncover deeper moral wisdom relevant to contemporary life.




In Torah Wrestling, Rabbi Roy Furman invites readers into an engaging and transformative exploration of the most challenging and inspiring stories in the Bible’s first five books. With intellectual rigor, deep ethical sensitivity, and a storyteller’s grace, Rabbi Furman breathes new life into stories both familiar and unfamiliar. This book is an ideal book for Jews, Christians and Muslims who wrestle with the moral dilemmas of our time while drawing wisdom from the Torah’s timeless teachings.



In a “Foreword from a Christian Perspective,” Reformed Journal Editor Jeffrey Munroe writes: “I wished I had been a member of one of Rabbi Furman’s congregations. He explores the Bible, in particular difficult passages of the Bible, with life-giving, refreshing freedom.” Then, in an Afterword from a Muslim Perspective, Wayne State University scholar Saeed Khan reminds readers that these timeless texts are “some of the greatest stories in the human experience.”



Rabbi Furman’s interpretations often challenge traditional understandings while remaining deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and a profound love for Torah, and his Jewish colleagues agree. Torah Wrestling can bring people together across religious and cultural lines to talk about how these Bible stories can be “a mirror for our world today,” writes Rabbi Allan Kensky in his Preface to the book.



Even if you “are coming to Torah for the first time, Rabbi Furman’s innovative insights will intrigue and empower you,” writes Rabbi Laura Geller.



That’s because Rabbi Furman confronts the complexities of sacred scripture with honesty and courage, grappling with issues of patriarchy, intolerance, divine justice, and human suffering. He encourages readers to embrace the struggle, offering fresh insights that empower readers to find relevance and inspiration in ancient texts.



Perfect for individual reflection or group study. Rabbi Furman offers readers a free, downloadable discussion guide to help spark spirited conversations.



Torah Wrestling bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges, inviting all readers to discover the vibrant, transformative power of Torah.




Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes Matt Field, co-founder, and Audrey Friedland, RN, nurse advocate, from Right at Home Home Health Care North Suburban Chicago.



The conversation delves into the complexities of home healthcare, exploring the challenges families face when caring for aging loved ones. It highlights the importance of understanding home healthcare services, the personal journeys of caregivers, and the evolving dynamics of family caregiving. The discussion also addresses key considerations for making informed decisions about home care, the financial implications, and the impact of political changes on caregiving. Finally, it emphasizes the significance of training and support for caregivers to ensure quality care for clients.



Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast Now Available on Roku Streaming Service



You can add the Jewish Sacred Aging TV channel to your Roku streaming subscription by visiting this page: https://channelstore.roku.com/details/600964/jewish-sacred-aging.



You can also watch this week’s show in the player below. The shows now include closed-captioning for the deaf or people with a hearing loss. Click the “CC” button on the video player to activate closed-captions.









Listen to the Audio Podcast



You can listen to the audio podcast version in the player below, or subscribe to the podcast in one of the popular platforms by clicking one of the buttons below the player.







About the Guests











Matt Field (and Rachel Field)



Matt and Rachel Field are the proud founders and leaders of Right at Home of North Suburban Chicago. Matt grew up on the North Shore, and Rachel grew up in Baltimore; they met at Union College in Schenectady, NY. Both have professional backgrounds in non-profit work, where they supported individuals and families in their communities.



Since opening Right at Home in 2012, Matt, Managing Partner, and Rachel, Principal Partner, have built a dedicated team of professionals driven by core values including compassion, respect, advocacy, accountability, and innovation. Together, they ensure the organization consistently delivers exceptional care and serves the community with integrity and dignity.



Outside of work, Matt and Rachel cherish spending time with their family and beloved dogs, Mabel and Louie. Matt enjoys lifelong fitness pursuits, while Rachel loves reading, is an avid walker, and enjoys playing mahjong with friends.













Audrey Friedland



Audrey Friedland R.N. is the nurse manager for Right at Home, North Suburban Chicago. She graduated from Michael Reese Nursing School and has been a nurse for 47 years with a wide range of experiences. She has worked general medical/surgical floors in a hospital, out patient clinics for Northwestern, Psychiatrics,

On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Connie Zweig delves into the concept of shadow work, exploring its significance in understanding our hidden selves and the implications of shadow projection in society. She and Rabbi Address discuss the resurgence of interest in shadow work, the psychological mechanisms behind projection, and the impact of mortality awareness on personal growth. Connie shares insights from her clinical practice and the importance of integrating body-mind connections in shadow work, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and understanding in navigating our inner darkness.



Connie’s Books




Cheating… lying … jealousy … blaming … greed … shame… These forbidden feelings and behaviors erupt from the dark, denied part of ourselves-the personal shadow. But they erupt with a purpose: They are trying to tell us their secrets.Meeting the Shadow is a landmark collection of 65 wide-ranging essays by thought leaders – including Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, Ken Wilber, James Hillman, Susan Griffin, Harville Hendrix—on the dark side of human nature as it appears in families, intimate relationships, sexuality, work, spirituality, politics, therapy, and creativity. It presents tools for Shadow Work that enable us to make a conscious relationship with the shadow, defuse negative emotions, release guilt and shame, achieve a genuine self-acceptance, and heal our relationships.Although we think of the shadow as containing only darkness, as Jung stated, its essence is “pure gold.”









AN UPDATED EDITION OF THE BREAKTHROUGH BOOK THAT LAUNCHED SHADOW-WORK INTO THE WORLD―WITH A NEW FOREWORD BY KEILA SHAHEEN AND A NEW PREFACEThe classic, provocative bestselling guide on shadow-work that “enables you to peel away the layers of your soul and get in touch with the purity of Being that lies within you” (Deepak Chopra, M.D.).“My guiding light . . . The wisdom within its pages served as both an anchor and a compass, guiding me toward a deeper understanding of the greater human experience.”—Keila Shaheen, author of the bestselling The Shadow-Work JournalBeneath the social mask we wear every day, we have a hidden shadow side: an impulsive, wounded, sad, or isolated part that we generally try to ignore. But as therapists Connie Zweig and Steve Wolf show in this landmark book, the shadow can actually be a source of emotional richness and vitality, and acknowledging it can be a pathway to healing and living an authentic life. “Romancing the shadow”—meeting your dark side, accepting it for what it is, and learning to use its powerful energies in productive ways—is the challenging and exciting work that Zweig and Wolf offer in this practical, rewarding guide.Drawing on the timeless teachings of Carl Jung and compelling stories of men and women whom they have helped in their clinical practices, Zweig and Wolf reveal how the shadow guides your choices in love, sex, marriage, friendship, work, and family life. With their innovative methods on shadow work, you can:• uncover the unique patters and purpose of your shadow• learn to defuse negative emotions• reclaim forbidden or lost feelings• achieve greater self-acceptance• heal betrayal• reimagine and re-create relationships• cultivate compassion for others• renew creative expression• find purpose in your sufferingThe shadow knows why good people sometimes do bad things. Romancing the shadow and learning to read the messages it encodes in daily life can deepen your consciousness,