Meet Your Gedolim

Shloime Balsam

Let’s travel back in our rich Jewish history to take a peek into the life and times of the greatest individuals, Gedolim, who lived lives we can learn from today. gedolimstories@gmail.com

Episodes

  1. 05/08/2025

    The Ohr HaChaim: Fire and Depth in Every Word

    In this episode of Meet Your Gedolim, we journey into the life and writings of the Ohr HaChaim Hakadosh, רב חיים בן עטר זצ"ל — a fiery soul whose commentary on the Torah burns with passion, Kabbalah, and deep love for כלל ישראל. Discover the life of the Moroccan mekubal who lit up the world with his sefer, and why generations have turned to his words for both inspiration and insight.

    18 min

  2. 20/11/2024

    Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach: A Legacy of Halacha and Humanity

    Join us on Meet Your Gedolim as we explore the life and legacy of Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach זצ"ל, a towering figure in the world of Halacha and a beacon of sensitivity and compassion. Discover the wisdom, humility, and groundbreaking insights that defined his approach to Torah leadership and how his decisions continue to guide and inspire the Jewish world today.

    26 min
  3. The Vilna Gaon - הגר"א

    29/07/2024

    The Vilna Gaon - הגר"א

    In this episode of Meet Your Gedolim, we delve into the life and legacy of the legendary Gaon of Vilna, the Gra. Discover the remarkable journey of one of the greatest Torah scholars of all time, his unparalleled dedication to learning, and the profound impact he left on the Jewish world. Join us as we explore the enduring influence of the Vilna Gaon and his contributions that continue to inspire generations.

    29 min

  4. 28/01/2024

    Rashi's Legacy - רש"י

    In this special episode, we delve into the extraordinary life of Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, universally revered as Rashi. From his humble beginnings in Troyes to moments of resilience during the First Crusade, explore the pivotal events that defined Rashi's journey. Join us as we uncover the lesser-known facets of this great sage, gaining insights into his wisdom, compassion, and enduring legacy. Enjoy as each story unfolds a chapter of inspiration from a towering figure in Jewish scholarship.

    21 min

  5. 20/01/2024

    The Rashba - רשב״א‎

    Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the life and legacy of Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet, commonly known as the Rashba. A prominent figure in medieval Jewish history, Rashba was not only a brilliant Talmudic scholar but also a defender of Jewish rights and a diplomat in times of religious tension. Explore the stories of Rashba's commitment to upholding Halacha, his ingenious solutions to ethical dilemmas within the community, and his fearless advocacy for the well-being of the Jewish people. Tune in to discover the wisdom, resilience, and enduring influence of Rashba, a luminary whose teachings continue to resonate in the realms of Jewish scholarship and ethics. gedolimstories@gmail.com

    18 min

  6. 12/10/2023

    Unveiling the Legacy of a Great Sage - Rabbi Moshe Feinstein

    In this enlightening episode, we journey back in time to explore the life and wisdom of one of the most revered Jewish legal authorities of the 20th century: Rabbi Moshe Feinstein. We delve into the remarkable journey of this Torah giant, from his early years in Russia to his influence on Jewish law across the world. Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, known for his brilliant legal mind and deep devotion to Halachah (Jewish law), left an indelible mark on the Jewish community. Discover how his scholarship and rulings shaped the modern Jewish landscape, addressing intricate issues of our time with precision and compassion. Join us as we uncover the life, work, and unparalleled contributions of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the man behind the decisions that continue to guide Jewish practice today. Whether you're well-versed in halachic discourse or just beginning your journey, this episode promises to be a fascinating exploration of a true gadol's legacy. gedolimstories@gmail.com

    21 min

  7. 02/09/2023

    Rav Shach

    Dive into the world of Torah giants on our podcast as we explore the life and profound impact of Rabbi Elazar Menachem Shach. In this captivating episode, we journey through the remarkable journey of Rav Shach, a towering figure of wisdom, scholarship, and leadership in the world of Orthodox Judaism. Discover his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a revered Rosh Yeshiva and spiritual guide, leading the Ponovezh Yeshiva and inspiring countless students worldwide. Join us as we delve into his unwavering commitment to Torah study, his unflinching stance on matters of Jewish law, and his role as a beacon of tradition amidst the challenges of modernity. Through captivating anecdotes and insightful analysis, we uncover the legacy of Rav Shach, a sage whose influence continues to shape the spiritual landscape to this day. Email me at gedolimstories@gmail.com

    26 min

  8. 19/08/2023

    The Chazon Ish

    In this insightful episode, we delve into the life and legacy of the illustrious Chazon Ish, a towering figure whose wisdom and influence shaped generations. Discover the remarkable story of his ascetic lifestyle, profound Torah scholarship, and innovative approach to halachic rulings. Tune in as we unravel the layers of his enigmatic personality and explore how his teachings continue to resonate in today's world. Join us for an inspiring exploration of the Chazon Ish's unparalleled impact, only on 'Meet Your Gedolim'. Email me at gedolimstories@gmail.com

    19 min

  9. 29/01/2022

    The Ramchal - Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto

    A Gut Voch and Shavuah Tov! This week we meet Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto who was an outstanding scholar and teacher of Jewish ethics who lived in the 18th century. A prolific writer who impacts the Jewish way of thinking even today. His life is a story of importance, conflict, and immense greatness, albeit in 39 years.

    20 min

  10. 21/04/2021

    Reb Ahron Kotler

    Let's try to paint a picture of the man who built Torah in America with the forces of Torah and Emes. Rav Ahron Kotler (1891–1962), fire in his blue eyes, carries the burden of an entire nation while creating new land for them to flourish in. Please email me with any comments, stories, and ideas.

    32 min
  • 10 Episodes

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Let’s travel back in our rich Jewish history to take a peek into the life and times of the greatest individuals, Gedolim, who lived lives we can learn from today. gedolimstories@gmail.com

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