Join host Shep Rosenman and his inspiring guest, Rabbi Sherre Hirsch, as they embark on a profound exploration of spirituality in the most unexpected places all sparked by the song, The Ballad of a Ghost. With Sherre’s insightful perspective and deep spiritual wisdom, they uncover how sacred moments can emerge from the ordinary, transforming our understanding of life’s journey. They also explore the transformative power of teachability, courage, and faith, and how these qualities can lead to personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to see the sacredness in life’s ordinary moments and discover a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.

Peter Himmelman and Shep delve into the powerful intersection of music, faith, and creativity in this episode. Himmelman They explore finding inspiration in the darkest moments, how embracing humility can elevate creative expression, and the profound ways music reflects the human spirit. This heartfelt dialogue is a must-listen for anyone seeking to connect with the soul of the artist and the essence of humanity. Tune in now and join the journey through music, ancient wisdom, and meaningful conversations!

Step into a realm where music sparks magic! On this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host, Shep Rosenman, sits down with the dazzling Shanna in a Dress—quirky folk-pop maven and live-wire performer. Inspired by Shep’s song, Our Day Begins, which is inspired by Psalm 59, we uncover the secrets of connecting with the divine through music, as Shanna shares raw insights on tuning into your body, embracing nature as a spiritual practice, and drawing inspiration from timeless Psalms. Hit play and get inspired!

Dive into the fascinating world of creativity and spirituality with Shep Rosenman, Brian Michael Bendis (creator of iconic characters like Miles Morales and Jessica Jones), and Rabbi Michael “Stick” Shefrin. From songwriting inspired by Psalms to the balance between emotional truth and factual storytelling, this episode offers a thought-provoking conversation on the intersection of faith, community, and creativity.

Discussing the layers of meaning behind the song ”Shooting Yourself in the Heart,” Mayim Bialik and Shep delve into the profound connection between Torah, music, and inspiration. The conversation spans the exploration of poetry and music, the songwriting process, and the inspirations drawn from biblical texts, particularly the Psalms. And they model how to start writing a song!  Tune in to discover the spiritual and artistic insights that unfold in this engaging episode.

Hit play on this soulful and thought-provoking episode of ”The Rest is Commentary” as host Shep Rosenman sits down with acclaimed singer-songwriter Carolyn Shulman for a powerful exploration of parenting, music, and ancient wisdom. Inspired by Shep’s song “Kissing My Son,” they dive into the raw fears and boundless joys of raising children—set against the backdrop of Psalm 2’s timeless truths. Carolyn and Shep unpack the mysteries of songwriting, blending emotion and intellect, and weaving sacred rituals into creative expression. Their conversation ranges from divine laughter to the unexpected ways faith and art intertwine. Tune in for a deep, heart-opening conversation that proves ancient wisdom still strikes a modern chord.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rosenman and Mitchell Hoenig, a former lone soldier in the IDF, the profound impact of a soldier receiving letters during military service and reflects on the importance of maintaining human connections despite the distance and challenges. The conversation delves into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the emotional journey of being a soldier, and the poignant moments of attending friends’ funerals. Tune in to explore the intricate blend of duty, art, and empathy, and discover how songs inspired by the Psalms can evoke powerful emotions and serve as a medium for healing and hope.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rosenman dives deep into the transformative power of forgiveness from God and from humans and the healing journey of reconciliation. Joined by industry veterans Brent Travers, a talent manager and producer, and Dan Weidman, a corporate communications expert, this heartfelt discussion draws from their rich history and personal experiences. The conversation also explores the everyday impact of prayer, the diversity of rituals across religions, and powerful personal stories that illuminate the journey of forgiveness. Tune in for an inspiring dialogue that blends faith with real-life applications, fostering understanding and compassion in our quest for spiritual fulfillment. Don’t miss this enriching episode!

Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum and Shep unravel the layers of personal and spiritual reflection in the song, ”Naked in Your Gaze,” inspired by Psalm 5, delving into how poetry and song can serve as mirrors, reflecting personal truths and collective experiences, navigating through imposter syndrome, and confronting the fear of deception. This conversation touches on the intersections of love, faith, and authenticity, examining how these concepts resonate in both human and divine relationships.

In this episode of ”The Rest is Commentary,” host Shep Rosenman welcomes Rabbi Sharon Brous, the senior and founding rabbi of IKAR and author of the national bestseller, ”The Amen Effect,” to explore the transformative power of love, justice, and personal connection drawing inspiration from Shep’s song (cowritten by Ray Allen Kayanek) ”Love is the Heart of this Coup” and Psalm 25.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rsenman and Professor Abby Fifer-Mandell discuss the hidden and revealed aspects of life, the choices we make, and the unseen labor that shapes our existence. They also explore the balance between individuality and belonging, the importance of rituals, and the complexities of depression and anxiety, offering insights on coping mechanisms and the moments of grace that bring light into darkness.

In this heartwarming episode, Shep and Elise Miller reminisce about their high school days, their shared love of music, and the unexpected journey of faith and doubt that life has taken them on. Join us for a candid conversation inspired by the song ”Coffee & Beignet” and Psalm 27, that blends humor, nostalgia, and profound insights on spirituality and human connection.

Join Shep and Rabbi Kasher as they explore how suffering, historical narratives, and the quest for meaning shape our understanding of God and our place in the world. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to live a life of faith, even if that faith is splintered.

Welcome to The Rest is Commentary, a podcast where music, ancient wisdom, and personal connections intertwine. Hosted by Shep Rosenman, each episode features a unique song inspired by the Psalms, or Tehillim in Hebrew, shared with a friend to spark meaningful conversations. Join Shep and his diverse array of guests—including rabbis, designers, professors, actors, authors and more —as they explore universal themes through a Jewish lens. From Rabbi David Kasher to Dr. Mayim Bialik, each episode delves into the rich tapestry of tradition and contemporary insights. Whether you have a deep connection to Jewish heritage or are entirely new to it, The Rest is Commentary invites you to connect with ancient texts, profound discussions, and the shared human experience. Tune in for a journey that bridges the past with the present, one song and conversation at a time.