What does it mean to honor parents in the 21st century — especially if the relationship is complex? This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson dives into the Fifth Commandment and the idea that honoring parents is a core Jewish value with deep spiritual meaning. Listen for a simple, mindful practice you can do at home to connect with your family’s story and pass on its values for generations to come. BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: ⁠⁠⁠https://unpacked.bio/uihny25⁠⁠⁠ Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews⁠

Is Shabbat just about Friday night dinner—or is it the most powerful spiritual technology in Jewish life? Rabbi Josh Feigelson dives into the Fourth Commandment—Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy—and reveals how Shabbat isn’t just a ritual, but a radical mindset shift that can bring you peace, presence, and purpose every day of the week. Featuring Mel Brooks, Moses, a simple but transformative meditation, and a big question: What are you holding onto too tightly? Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: ⁠⁠https://unpacked.bio/uihny25⁠⁠ Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Fourth Commandment—“Do not take God’s name in vain”—and what it teaches us about speech, truth, and mindful living. From his days as a Boy Scout to Jewish mystical practices, Josh connects personal stories with ancient wisdom to help us speak with more clarity, compassion, and Divine purpose. You’ll also learn a unique mindfulness exercise inspired by the shofar to deepen your intention and integrity in everyday speech. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Third Commandment and how its warning against idolatry offers a profound lesson in mindfulness. From childhood posters to spiritual projections, we often cling to permanence in a world of constant change. Through a grounding meditation on breath, Josh helps us soften the grip on our inner idols and embrace the ever-unfolding nature of life. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

What do Instagram, your phone, and ancient idols have in common? This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Second Commandment—"You shall have no other gods"—as a deep call to mindful living. He shares how distraction can become a modern form of idolatry and guides listeners through a meditation practice rooted in the mystical verse Shiviti Hashem l’negdi tamid. In the second episode in a series on the Ten Commandments and mindfulness, discover how to realign your attention with your spiritual intention in a world full of noise. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

In this first episode of a new series on the Ten Commandments, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores Anochi—“I the Eternal am your God”—as the essential ground of being and an invitation to spiritual connection, not just an ancient commandment. Learn how this foundational utterance can help you mindfully move from constriction to spaciousness and cultivate radical acceptance in your daily life. Guided meditation and reflections are included. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

In the finale of the Jewish Ethics series, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself--v’ahavta l’reiakha kamokha. Drawing on personal stories of community during grief, classical commentaries like Ibn Ezra and Ramban, and a guided meditation, this episode reveals how loving others is a mindful practice rooted in seeing every person as created btzelem elohim, in the Divine image. Discover how showing up for others transforms our lives and communities. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

In a culture obsessed with youth and novelty, the Torah offers a radically different vision: “Mipnei seivah takum”—rise before the elderly. This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the mitzvah of honoring elders as both an ethical imperative and a powerful opportunity for mindfulness. Drawing on Jewish wisdom, comedy legend Mel Brooks, and spiritual practice, Josh invites us to confront our own discomfort with aging and instead embrace the dignity, humanity, and wisdom of our elders. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Jewish ethical practice of tochacha—offering and receiving rebuke or negative feedback with compassion and clarity. Rooted in Leviticus and echoed by the Rabbis and Proverbs, this "lost art" is reframed as a path to wisdom, humility, and growth. Learn mindful strategies to embrace feedback as a sacred tool for becoming your best self. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

In this special wartime episode of Soulful Jewish Living, Rabbi Josh Feigelson offers a heartfelt response to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. With compassion for those directly impacted and those watching from afar, Josh leads listeners through a powerful mindfulness and blessing practice rooted in the priestly blessing. Designed to foster inner calm and spiritual connection amidst fear and uncertainty, this episode is both a meditation and a message of solidarity for all affected by war. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the Jewish ethical tradition of shemirat hadibbur—guarding one’s speech. In a time when language often feels weaponized or meaningless, Judaism reminds us of the holiness of words. From the Torah’s account of creation to the vows of Yom Kippur, words shape reality. In the latest episode in a series on Jewish ethics, Josh introduces five powerful questions rooted in Buddhist and Jewish wisdom to guide mindful speech. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

What do missing bunnies, forgotten wallets, and overlooked people have in common? In the latest installment of a series on Jewish ethics, Rabbi Josh Feigelson draws on unexpected wisdom from the beloved children’s book Knuffle Bunny to explore the deeply rooted Jewish mitzvah of hashavat aveidah—returning lost objects. This episode bridges Jewish ethics with practical mindfulness and draws on the Torah teaching of Lo hitalamta —do not look away and have the moral courage to notice. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Wondering Jews

This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson reflects on how his bar mitzvah helped shape his lifelong relationship with tzedakah—Jewish giving. Inspired by tzedakah advocate Danny Siegel, Rabbi Feigelson recounts how choosing generosity over gifts shifted his perspective on possessions, wealth, and happiness. This fifth installment in the “Jewish Ethics” miniseries goes beyond the immediate, face-to-face acts of charity discussed in the previous episode, and explores the quieter, often harder version of tzedakah: giving when no one is watching, when no one is asking. Along the way, we learn from Rabbi Shimon ben Zoma’s timeless wisdom: “Who is wealthy? One who is happy with what they have.” Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠ ⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠ ⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠ ⁠Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson shares a personal story that becomes a powerful lesson in tzedakah, the Jewish ethical obligation to give. Through an unexpected moment outside a Walgreens, Josh explores the deep emotional and spiritual layers that arise when we encounter people in need—and how choosing to act with compassion can reconnect us to our divine purpose. In the latest episode in a series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness, explore how tzedakah is far more than charity. The word tzedakah means justice—rooted in the Hebrew word tzedek. It’s not optional generosity, but a sacred responsibility. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

In this heartwarming episode, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the timeless Jewish mitzvah of bikkur cholim—visiting the sick. Using the classic film The Princess Bride as a surprising entry point, Rabbi Feigelson reminds us that the story begins not with sword fights or giants, but with an act of love and compassion: a grandfather visiting his ill grandson. The latest episode in a 10-part series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness uses the teachings from Maimonides and Jewish tradition to explore how this sacred practice is both an act of kindness (gemilut hasadim) and a reflection of the mitzvah to love our neighbors as ourselves. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim—welcoming guests—as a core element of Jewish ethics and spiritual life. In the second episode in a series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness, Rabbi Feigelson draws from personal Passover memories, teachings from his Hillel rabbi, and Talmudic wisdom. He unpacks how hospitality is more than symbolic—it’s a deeply vulnerable, godly, and spiritual act. Listen for a guided meditation to help cultivate a sense of home and openness, encouraging us to extend warmth and welcome to others. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

In this powerful new series, Rabbi Josh Feigelson kicks off a 10-part exploration of Jewish ethics by diving into one of Judaism’s most profound teachings: that every human being is created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God. This episode sets the stage for a deeper journey through Jewish ethical mitzvot like hospitality, care for the sick, and mindful speech—grounded in the belief that Jewish mindfulness isn’t just about self-care, but about building a more compassionate world. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

Please subscribe to Jewish History Nerds wherever you get your podcasts so you'll never miss an episode. Click here to subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Click here to subscribe on Spotify. Click here for a recap of the information discussed in the episode. Click here to watch Unpacked's YouTube video "The Surprising History of the Star of David." Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

In this deeply personal pre-Passover episode, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores how the holiday of Pesach is designed to help us feel truly at home—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Discover why the seder is more than just a meal—it’s a mindful container for healing, listening, and growth. From childhood memories of a basement seder to the sacred ritual of opening the door for Elijah, Josh reflects on how Passover invites us into a space of belonging and liberation. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews

As we prepare for Passover, Rabbi Josh Feigelson invites listeners to reflect on the deeper spiritual message of the holiday: moving from servitude under Pharaoh to a sacred relationship with the Divine, and recognizing how independence and interdependence are intertwined. With stories from his Detroit roots and a short guided meditation, this episode offers both insight and practice for a meaningful season of renewal. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews