Belonging: A New Podcast from Congregation Rodeph Sholom NYC

Rabbi Ben Spratt
  • 4.9 (18)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Belonging explores the journeys of Rodeph Sholom community members as they share reflections on life’s biggest questions. In conversation with Senior Rabbi Ben Spratt, each episode widens our sense of belonging in this vibrant congregation. 

  1. Resilience and Belonging: Dr. Robert Accordino

    12/19/2024

    Resilience and Belonging: Dr. Robert Accordino

    What if the key to resilience lies in our shared quest for belonging? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Robert Accordino, a respected psychiatrist and integral member of our Rodeph Sholom community. Through his experiences, we uncover how initiatives like Music for Autism and CRS's Shireinu Initiative redefine inclusivity, offering individuals with developmental conditions a space to truly belong. Robert opens up about the profound influence of his family and the resilience they instilled, shaping his path in medicine and his commitment to fostering inclusive communities.

    27 min
  2. Writing Devotion, Speaking Resilience: A Conversation with Jane Dystel

    12/12/2024

    Writing Devotion, Speaking Resilience: A Conversation with Jane Dystel

    Jane Dystel’s journey is nothing short of transformative, from discovering her Jewish roots later in life, to becoming a beacon of community and support at Rodeph Sholom. Tune in to hear how Jane, despite not growing up with a religious foundation, embraced her faith through her marriage and son's involvement in Jewish traditions. Her story is a testament to the power of finding one's place and the importance of fostering a community where everyone feels they belong. Jane's advocacy for caregiver support, inspired by personal experiences with her brother and husband, underscores her unwavering commitment to building networks of care and belonging.

    26 min
  3. Dancing Into Belonging: Rachael Evans

    11/28/2024

    Dancing Into Belonging: Rachael Evans

    Rachael Evans' inspiring journey to belonging unfolds in our latest episode, as she goes from a girl enchanted by dance in a Christian studio to a pivotal figure at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Her move to New York, fueled by an unwavering belief that she belonged there, was fraught with challenges. Yet, an unexpected audition at a synagogue opened doors to lifelong friendships and a role as Chief of Staff and Operations, proving that perseverance and community can lead to unimaginable opportunities. Rachael's story is a stirring reminder of how life's twists and turns can guide us home, both professionally and personally.

    27 min
  4. Gardening Life's Lessons with Lisa Timmel

    11/21/2024

    Gardening Life's Lessons with Lisa Timmel

    Lisa Timmel's unexpected journey from the bustling world of theater to the serene gardens of Central Park offers a narrative rich with transformation and authenticity. As a renowned dramaturg, Lisa found the courage to pivot towards a life that truly resonated with her values and passions, illustrating a heartfelt quest for self-belonging. With Lisa, we uncover the layers of her spiritual journey, from her Catholic upbringing to her embrace of Judaism, driven by a desire to harmonize her inner and outer worlds. Her story reminds us of the universal search for fulfillment and the significance of being in the right place with the right people, much like the plants she nurtures.

    28 min
  5. Overcoming Adversity: Risa Schessel’s Journey of Gratitude

    11/07/2024

    Overcoming Adversity: Risa Schessel’s Journey of Gratitude

    Join us as we unravel the remarkable journey of Risa Schessel, who galvanized her sense of gratitude and Jewish identity following a health crisis. Risa's early years were shaped by constant relocations and a distant connection to her faith, but her path took a fascinating turn during her time at the University of Texas and her involvement in a Christian sorority. Her story takes a transformative leap after she moved to New York and married Harry, an Orthodox Jew, leading to their shared decision to raise their children in the Jewish tradition. This pivotal choice deepened Risa’s engagement with Judaism, culminating in her becoming an adult Bat Mitzvah.

    27 min
  6. Belonging in the Face of Loss: A Conversation with Nick Fineman

    10/31/2024

    Belonging in the Face of Loss: A Conversation with Nick Fineman

    What does it truly mean to belong, and how do personal hardships shape our sense of community? Join us as Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist Nick Fineman takes us on a journey through the highs and lows of his career in TV news. Nick's compelling narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a family legacy in media, where he determinedly carved out his own path despite initial struggles and recent personal losses, including the recent death of his father. His heartfelt reflections reveal how moments of discomfort and growth lead to a deeper understanding of connection and comfort.

    28 min
  7. From Purim Carnival to Generational Legacy: Richard and Barbara Lustig's Journey at Rodeph Sholom

    10/23/2024

    From Purim Carnival to Generational Legacy: Richard and Barbara Lustig's Journey at Rodeph Sholom

    What if the power of community and dedication could shape generations? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Richard and Barbara Lustig, pillars of Congregation Rodeph Sholom. With Richard's family ties spanning five generations and Barbara's four, their story is one of legacy, love, and devotion. From their meeting at a CRS Purim Carnival to 64 years of marriage, their shared commitment to nurturing and inspiring future generations has left a lasting impact on the community. Richard's wartime experiences and Barbara's dedication to choir and service showcase their resilience and love.

    28 min
  8. Shaping the Stories that Matter: Journalism, Judaism, and the Journey of Neal Shapiro

    10/17/2024

    Shaping the Stories that Matter: Journalism, Judaism, and the Journey of Neal Shapiro

    What if the stories we tell could bridge divides and foster a deeper sense of belonging? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Neal Shapiro, a veteran journalist with experience throughout the media industry, as he candidly shares his journey through Judaism and journalism. From facing anti-Semitism in Albany to his impactful role at ABC News during historic events like the Falklands War and Watergate scandal, Neal's story is one of resilience, purpose, and the search for community.

    28 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Belonging explores the journeys of Rodeph Sholom community members as they share reflections on life’s biggest questions. In conversation with Senior Rabbi Ben Spratt, each episode widens our sense of belonging in this vibrant congregation. 

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