In this 2024 conversation, host Shep Rosenman talks with songwriter Terri Sunflower about her journey of self-discovery, gender identity, and the healing power of music. Their discussion, inspired by “Two Is Better Than One” and Psalm 139, touches on coming out later in life, family, loss, and authenticity in art. The episode honors the memory of Terri’s father, Tom Cook, who passed away in 2025.

What do abandoned pianos, Psalm 39, and the chaos of Hollywood’s writers’ rooms have in common? Emmy-nominated Chuck Tatham joins Shep Rosenman to talk creativity, faith, and those unexpected moments that give life meaning. Tune in for stories, laughs, and real talk about life, music, and belief.

In this episode, Rabbi Rachel Kobrin and Jeff Ward step into the ring with Shep Rosenman for a conversation on prayer, resilience, and the fight to keep tradition alive. With insights from music, Talmud, and community, they spotlight new ways to engage Jewish life including exploring Jeff’s upcoming book, Shabbat on Mars.

Shep Rosenman talks with singer-songwriter and grief therapist Ingrid Avison about creating “Little Prizes,” a song inspired by Psalm 86 and the final days of Shep’s friend, Kim Simon, to whom the episode is dedicated. They explore how grief can serve as both pain and creative force, touching on co-writing with Liz Hanellin, music as healing practice, and the role of humor, presence, and community in loss.

abbi Shoshana Boyd Gelfand joins Shep Rosenman to reflect on grief, ritual, and resilience. From the silence of mourning to the music of memory, they explore Jewish and interfaith practices that help us honor loss, find meaning, and create connection

Shep Rosenman sits down with co-writer Leah Lesch to share the story behind “Bring Him Home,” a moving piece drawn from Psalm 126 and written in the aftermath of October 7th. They reveal how the song was created and brought to life through Nettie Wolkind’s heartfelt performance. At its core, the piece is a prayer for Hersh Goldberg-Polin and all the hostages to come home. This intimate conversation invites listeners into the emotions and purpose woven into every note. The episode is dedicated to Hersh’s memory.

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep Rosenman and Rabbi Mel Gottlieb dive into the transformative journey of embracing both our light and shadow to achieve true wholeness and spiritual growth. Drawing on Shep’s song, ”Finding My Way Out,” and Kabbalistic and Jungian wisdom, they explore how self-acceptance, including our darker sides, is the key to loving others and discovering deeper unity. Through inspiring discussion and soulful music, the episode weaves together themes of memory, gratitude, heresy, and divine connection, urging listeners to find God within themselves and in the act of compassionate balance.

Join host Shep Rosenman in a compelling conversation with Brazilian writer-director Anne Pinheiro Guimarães as they explore the spiritual power of self-reflection, the creative flow of inspiration, and the fine line between being reflective and being judgmental. Anne shares how her multicultural roots, global travels, and personal journals have shaped her work as a filmmaker, opening up about identity, sexuality, and the quiet truths that emerge in the spaces between family, heritage, and transformation. Whether you’re a returning listener or discovering *The Rest is Commentary* for the first time, this episode offers a rich, thought-provoking journey into the heart of art and soul.

Join host Shep Rosenman for a captivating conversation with acclaimed historian, host of the Jewish History Soundbites podcast, and tour guide Yehuda Geberer that’s equal parts profound and uplifting. Inspired by a moving visit to his parents’ graves and the timeless words of Psalm 16, Shep opens up about the story behind his heartfelt song, “Can’t Stay Here Long.”

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep sits down with Rabbanit Alissa Thomas-Newborn—synagogue spiritual leader, hospital chaplain, interfaith bridge-builder, and author—to reflect on trauma, creativity, and the fragile hope that persists in times of crisis. From her early encouragement to transform Shep’s songs into a podcast to her reflections on civic unrest, interfaith dialogue, and parenting after October 7th, Alissa offers wisdom rooted in Torah, pastoral care, and lived experience. With vulnerability and strength, she challenges us to confront hate without becoming hardened and to respond to pain with acts of life, connection, and sacred presence.

In this special episode of “The Rest is Commentary,” host Shep Rosenman sits down with Rabbi Joe Black to reflect on Joe’s inspiring journey as a rabbi, musician, and songwriter as he prepares to retire from Temple Emanuel in Denver. Listeners are treated to spontaneous performances of Joe’s songs and heartfelt stories that reveal how music and spirituality are deeply intertwined in his life. The conversation explores the three transformative stages of spirituality—awareness, appreciation, and action—using the evocative song “Endless” as a touchstone for their discussion. Joe also shares candid insights into balancing his dual roles as spiritual leader and artist, highlighting the power of faith, creativity, and embracing change.

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, acclaimed singer,  composer, ritual leader, and rocker, Naomi Less joins the conversation to unravel the deep complexities of Jewish identity and the pursuit of safety in this increasingly turbulent world. As a self-described “Lefty Zionist,” Naomi shares her personal journey—one shaped by resilience, hope, and, more recently, the rising tide of anti-Semitism. Using the lens of Shep's evocative song “Until When,” inspired by Psalm 13, Naomi reveals how music becomes both a sanctuary and a call to action. Listeners are invited into this candid exploration of what it means to navigate difficult conversations, foster critical thinking, and lean into rituals that nurture and sustain community bonds. The episode pays heartfelt tribute to Sarah Lynn Milgram and Yaron Lishinsky, may their memories be a blessing.  Their murders underscore the urgent need for peace, empathy, and understanding in these challenging times.

Shep sits down with his cousin, Rachell Koegel — a passionate writer and educator from Oceanside, New York — to unravel the powerful influence of role models and the lifelong journey of unlearning the patterns we pick up in childhood. Rachell shares stories that highlight the importance of being truly present and the courage it takes to break old cycles. They discuss accountability, the shadow cast by fear, and the delicate dance of breaking and repairing relationships. The episode is dedicated to Rachell’s late mother, Selma Nadboy (nee Rosenman).

Experience Rabbi Raphael Shore’s remarkable journey of finding divine connection even in the darkest moments, and uncover the transformative power of empathy, education, and faith in the pursuit of peace. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the dangers of brainwashing and propaganda, while celebrating the enduring strength and resilience of the Jewish People. Join Rabbi Shore and host Shep Rosenman as they navigate the intricate realities of life in a war zone, embracing accountability on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and emphasizing the vital importance of hearing diverse narratives. Don’t miss this episode of “The Rest Is Commentary” - a moving exploration of how to find joy in the present, nurture optimism, and foster understanding and connection in times of adversity.

On this powerful episode of *The Rest is Commentary*, Shep Rosenman sits down with his brother - legendary film and TV producer Zvi Howard Rosenman - for a raw, unfiltered journey through the music, memories, and mysteries that shape our lives. From the wild highs of creativity to the depths of loss, Shep and Zvi reveal how music becomes a lifeline-connecting us, healing us, and helping us find meaning in the chaos. They open up about family, identity, and the courage to be authentic, all while honoring the enduring legacy of Shep’s dear friend, Ivan Wolkind. If you’ve ever wondered how art can transform pain into beauty - or how the bonds of brotherhood can light up even the darkest moments - this episode is for you.

Join Shep Rosenman for a soul-stirring conversation with the incomparable *Alicia Jo Rabins*—musician, writer, and spiritual adventurer—whose work weaves together Jewish mysticism, feminist insight, and raw creative fire. In this electrifying episode of The Rest is Commentary, Alicia opens up about her groundbreaking project *Girls in Trouble*, the spiritual power of songwriting, and how she channels ancient texts into deeply personal relevant art. Whether she’s teaching Torah or shredding on the violin, Alicia is always asking: how do ritual, music, and story help us touch the divine? This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered how ancient prayers and punk rock might be part of the same song.

Discover an inspiring episode of The Rest is Commentary as host Shep Rosenman welcomes Rav Hanan Schlesinger, an Orthodox rabbi with a unique perspective. Get ready for an enlightening journey through the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian relations and the power of grassroots initiatives. Rav Hanan, co-founder of Roots-Shorashim-Judur, shares his compelling personal. His story challenges us to reconsider our own perspectives and embrace the humanity in those we may see as ’other.’ Adding a touch of musical inspiration, Shep and Liz Hanellin’s song ”It’s Late at the Bar,” inspired by Psalm 30, weaves throughout the dialogue, connecting spirituality with the themes of reconciliation. This episode promises to challenge your thinking and inspire hope for positive change.

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!