Belonging: A New Podcast from Congregation Rodeph Sholom NYC Rabbi Ben Spratt

In our latest podcast episode, we embark on a heartfelt exploration with Nikki Fisher,  a veteran, mother, and leader in the Rodeph Sholom School community. Nikki shares her journey from growing up in Chicago and Toledo, to the structured ranks of military life, and the continuous battle with racial and gender expectations. This candid conversation will leave you with a profound appreciation for the nuances of belonging and inspire you to embrace your true self.

In today's episode, we speak with Jack Levitt, a cornerstone of Congregation Rodeph Sholom.  Growing up navigating the vibrant streets of New York's West Side, where the shadow of World War II loomed, Jack's narrative intertwines with the city's heartbeat and shows that in the face of global and local fractures, the role of the synagogue emerges as a sanctuary for solace and connection. With wisdom and warmth, he shares the pivotal moments that drew him closer to our traditions, emphasizing the power of mentorship and community in shaping a sense of belonging. 

In this latest episode, we had the privilege of engaging in an enriching conversation with Lloyd Moore, the Deputy Director of Security at Congregation Rodeph Sholom. Lloyd shares his journey, from his early days as an NYPD officer to becoming a beacon of safety at CRS. Throughout the episode, Lloyd shares heartfelt stories, rooted in hard work and human connection, that paint a vivid picture of his lifelong quest to cultivate warmth and belonging in every space he enters.

Our latest episode features this esteemed honorary trustee and beacon of  Congregation Rodeph Sholom, Mary Harkavy. She unravels tales of her lifelong quest for belonging and the profound impact of forging strong relationships within the synagogue. Mary's reflections on her service, the importance of listening to younger voices, and her role in sustaining our shared heritage, offer a treasure trove of wisdom for nurturing a vibrant community.

The Rubin family, spanning three generations at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, open up about their pursuit of belonging,  and the celebration of their roots. Throughout this episode, the stories of Gabin Rubin, Samantha Chinn and Asher Rubin, unfold as a tapestry woven with the threads of Jewish identity, family legacy, and the universal human quest for acceptance. 

When the echoes of a family's past shape the present, the tapestry of life becomes rich with stories of resilience and belonging. Dr. Walter Weiss, lovingly known as Wally, joins us to unravel his parents' gripping escape from Europe during the Holocaust, weaving a narrative that has profoundly influenced his own life journey—from the sacredness of his synagogue to his esteemed career in medicine. His reflections are a poignant reminder of how the struggles and triumphs of our forebears can deeply affect our own sense of identity and community.