Embodied Judaism

Jessie Gerzon
  • 5.0 (3)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

I was raised totally secular, but after a Crohn’s diagnosis and an invitation for deep, full-body & soul healing, I turned to plant medicine… & found my way to a more observant Jewish life. One that only works because it’s fully authentic. Now, so much of how I experience life is Jewishly rooted—and it's through the lens of the healing world I came from. My wedding and weekly Shabbat is as powerful and transformative as my experiences with ayahuasca & peyote. Ritual isn’t just tradition—it’s somatic, transformative, alive. 🎧 Tune in & experience Jewish wisdom, as ceremony, as healing.

  1. 3D AGO

    S2, Ep. 1: Cracking Shells & Opening Channels: Tu B'Shvat & the Tree of Life with Eli Witkin

    Hey everyone, I’m back. I launched Embodied Judaism in February 2025, recorded consistently through July, and then life… really lifed, and I took a hiatus. I’m returning now at the end of January 2026 (almost a full year later) to begin what I’ll call unofficial Season 2, and I’m genuinely so excited to be sharing the podcast here on Substack. So so so much has changed since last year. I have updates, stories, and new teachings I can’t wait to bring you. Thank you for being here, and welcome (back) to Embodied Judaism. 💛 In this “unofficial Season 2” opener, I’m joined by my friend Eli Witkin for a deep, practical, and mystical conversation about Tu B’Shvat — not as “Jewish Earth Day,” but as a serious spiritual technology. Eli is known for hosting a deep & powerful Tu B’Shvat Seder (the kind people try to get a seat at). We talk about what makes a ritual container work: candlelight, pacing, boundaries, beauty, and how intention moves through the senses. Together we explore: Tu B’Shvat as “medicine without medicine” The Pri Etz Hadar and the origins of the Tu B’Shvat Seder The Four Worlds (Asiyah / Yetzirah / Briyah / Atzilut) through fruit + wine “Cracking shells” and removing pits Shefa, Yesod, and the cosmic tikkun/fixing idea of “opening channels” for blessing and renewal Why tradition needs both chesed (flow) and gevurah (structure) How cycles, seasons, and Jewish time teach us to live more truthfully We close with a blessing for renewal- personal, communal, and cosmic- as the sap begins to rise. Chag Sameach and welcome back to Embodied Judaism.

    53 min

  2. 08/01/2025

    Ep. 19 Individual Soul Expression with Rabbi Peretz

    It was a real gift to delve into the profound journey of mind-body connection and personal growth with Rabbi Peretz. Rabbi Peretz shares some of how his own personal exploration has led to transformative experience. Rabbi Peretz shares his insights on balancing practice with everyday life, the importance of authenticity in non-dogmatic Judaism, and the role of music and movement in connecting the body and soul. Join us as we get a small glimpse of his path to personal breakthrough and the power of living an intentional, authentically Jewish life. Peretz is a one-of-a-kind, unique Rabbi who meets you exactly where you are. Need a concierge Rabbi? Spiritual motivation? Psychedelic support? For over 20 years, Peretz has been a rabbi outside the Synagogue, understanding that there is a need for Jewish life beyond the walls of traditional religious practices. Passionately guiding, mentoring, and teaching those seeking something real. Rabbi Peretz does Jewish events tailored to your needs. Guides individuals in plant medicine experiences. Coaches you to your spiritual center. Peretz means breakthrough, and that’s the heart of his work: helping you break through limiting beliefs, outdated paradigms, and spiritual stagnation—so you can step fully into the life you’re meant to live. and Follow him on IG here!

    58 min

  3. 06/28/2025

    Ep. 18 Parsha Korach: Humility, Ego, & Testing Boundaries

    So grateful to have Ben Steinberger again on the podcast, this time we're back with a parsha episode. Let us know if you like these! In the spirit of embodying the discussion we had on this week’s Parsha, and appreciation to the members of this community, Ben would like to offer a free 2-hour coaching session to members of this community. No commitment. No gimmicks. Just an opportunity to explore something you could use support around. You can book a session directly here https://calendly.com/ben-keg/coaching-callIn the spirit of embodying the discussion we had on this week’s Parsha, and appreciation to the members of this community, Ben would like to offer a free 2-hour coaching session to members of this community. No commitment. No gimmicks. Just an opportunity to explore something you could use support around. You can book a session directly here https://calendly.com/ben-keg/coaching-call

    1h 16m

  4. 06/13/2025

    Ep. 17 Courage, Emotional Responsibility, & Practical Spirituality with Idan Lumi

    In this conversation, Jessie and Idan explore themes of personal growth, practical spirituality, and the courage that ends up leading to sometimes surprisingly significant life changes. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence, the role of forgiveness in healing, and the necessity of genuine connections in relationships. Idan shares insights from his journey as a therapist and teacher, emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal experiences and spiritual growth. Together, they explore the themes of emotional regulation, availability, and the impact of personal choices on relationships and healing. The conversation also delves into the significance of dreams as reflections of healing and connection, and how our choices can have a ripple effect on those around us. Join us for a conversation on the power of emotional expression and the importance of being present and available in our relationships. Connect with Idan on instagramFree whatsapp dream groupBecause healing happens in presence, through relationship, and with the courage to feel. To join Idan's 6 week upcoming course The Capacity to Feel, sign up here.To reach out to Idan direct- say hi, ask questions about the course, or to inquire directly for 1:1 or couples work.. message him on Whatsapp: +972-549-45-0060 About Idan Lumi: I’ve spent the past 15 years immersed in the worlds of therapy, counseling, and teaching, guiding individuals and groups through deep emotional and spiritual processes. Over time, I developed a unique method I call Practical Spirituality — an integrative approach that weaves together emotional intelligence, relational healing, and spiritual insight. My work centers on real conversations about what it means to feel, to connect, and to be human. I speak with people about emotions, relationships, Judaism, and the often-unspoken spaces in between. I’m especially interested in the meeting point between ancient wisdom and contemporary psychology — where the soul’s longing meets the practical tools for living a grounded, authentic life.

    1h 18m

  5. 06/05/2025

    Ep. 15 Sound as Prayer: Orka Teppler on Medicine Music, Belonging, & the Power of Hebrew

    In this conversation, Jessie interviews Orka, a prominent figure in the medicine music scene, discussing her journey as a musician, her connection to Hebrew identity, and the transformative power of music in healing and peace. Orka shares her experiences of navigating her identity as an Israeli artist, the impact of significant events like October 7th, and her commitment to empowering voices through music. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and the role of music in bridging cultural divides. Follow Orka on instagram to find out about her latest events, including concerts and vocal journeys.

    49 min

  6. 05/26/2025

    Ep. 14 Rooting & Reclaiming: Honoring Tradition While Creating Your Own Path in Judaism with Rabbi Rishe Groner

    Rabbi Rishe, from a Chabad background, shared her journey of embracing her Jewish identity and spiritual roots, emphasizing the importance of balancing traditional practices with personal experiences in Judaism. She discussed the challenges faced by Jewish women, the significance of creating meaningful rituals at home, and the need for accessible Jewish education for adults. The conversation also touched on the spiritual benefits of various practices, including water blessings and cacao ceremonies, and the importance of understanding and adapting Jewish traditions for personal growth and connection with the divine. Follow her on instagram here.

    1h 39m

  7. 04/08/2025

    Ep. 13 Passover (Pesach) Prep Pt. 2 with Nechama Schusterman

    As always thank you Nechama Schusterman for your time in sharing your wisdom!

    35 min

  8. 04/02/2025

    Ep. 12 Passover (Pesach) Prep Pt. 1 with Nechama Schusterman

    Thank you to Nechama Schusterman as always for such wonderful conversations. Nechama and I usually speak about the parsha, but as we both love Pesach, we decided to share a bit about prepping for the holiday.

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

I was raised totally secular, but after a Crohn’s diagnosis and an invitation for deep, full-body & soul healing, I turned to plant medicine… & found my way to a more observant Jewish life. One that only works because it’s fully authentic. Now, so much of how I experience life is Jewishly rooted—and it's through the lens of the healing world I came from. My wedding and weekly Shabbat is as powerful and transformative as my experiences with ayahuasca & peyote. Ritual isn’t just tradition—it’s somatic, transformative, alive. 🎧 Tune in & experience Jewish wisdom, as ceremony, as healing.

Information

  • Creator
    Jessie Gerzon
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jessie Gerzon
  • Show Website
    Embodied Judaism