Episodes

  • The Spiritual Power of Giving: Tzedakah in Jewish Ethics (Part 4)

    The Spiritual Power of Giving: Tzedakah in Jewish Ethics (Part 4)
    May 12 2025
    Rabbi Josh Feigelson shares a personal story that becomes a powerful lesson in tzedakah, the Jewish ethical obligation to give. Through an unexpected moment outside a Walgreens, Josh explores the deep emotional and spiritual layers that arise when we encounter people in need—and how choosing to act with compassion can reconnect us to our divine purpose. In the latest episode in a series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness, explore how tzedakah is far more than charity. The word tzedakah means justice—rooted in the Hebrew word tzedek. It’s not optional generosity, but a sacred responsibility. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    12 mins
  • Jewish Ethics in Action: Why Visiting the Sick Is Sacred (Part 3)

    Jewish Ethics in Action: Why Visiting the Sick Is Sacred (Part 3)
    May 5 2025
    In this heartwarming episode, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the timeless Jewish mitzvah of bikkur cholim—visiting the sick. Using the classic film The Princess Bride as a surprising entry point, Rabbi Feigelson reminds us that the story begins not with sword fights or giants, but with an act of love and compassion: a grandfather visiting his ill grandson. The latest episode in a 10-part series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness uses the teachings from Maimonides and Jewish tradition to explore how this sacred practice is both an act of kindness (gemilut hasadim) and a reflection of the mitzvah to love our neighbors as ourselves. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    9 mins
  • The Sacred Art of Hospitality: Jewish Mindfulness and Ethics (Part 2)

    The Sacred Art of Hospitality: Jewish Mindfulness and Ethics (Part 2)
    Apr 28 2025
    Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim—welcoming guests—as a core element of Jewish ethics and spiritual life. In the second episode in a series on Jewish ethics and mindfulness, Rabbi Feigelson draws from personal Passover memories, teachings from his Hillel rabbi, and Talmudic wisdom. He unpacks how hospitality is more than symbolic—it’s a deeply vulnerable, godly, and spiritual act. Listen for a guided meditation to help cultivate a sense of home and openness, encouraging us to extend warmth and welcome to others. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    10 mins
  • You Are Infinitely Valuable: Jewish Ethics and Mindfulness (Part 1)

    You Are Infinitely Valuable: Jewish Ethics and Mindfulness (Part 1)
    Apr 21 2025
    In this powerful new series, Rabbi Josh Feigelson kicks off a 10-part exploration of Jewish ethics by diving into one of Judaism’s most profound teachings: that every human being is created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God. This episode sets the stage for a deeper journey through Jewish ethical mitzvot like hospitality, care for the sick, and mindful speech—grounded in the belief that Jewish mindfulness isn’t just about self-care, but about building a more compassionate world. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    12 mins
  • Special Crossover: The Star of David (Jewish History Nerds)

    Special Crossover: The Star of David (Jewish History Nerds)
    Apr 14 2025
    Please subscribe to Jewish History Nerds wherever you get your podcasts so you'll never miss an episode. Click here to subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Click here to subscribe on Spotify. Click here for a recap of the information discussed in the episode. Click here to watch Unpacked's YouTube video "The Surprising History of the Star of David." Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    37 mins
  • Going Home for Passover: Creating a Seder of Safety, Freedom, and Presence (Part 2)

    Going Home for Passover: Creating a Seder of Safety, Freedom, and Presence (Part 2)
    Apr 7 2025
    In this deeply personal pre-Passover episode, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores how the holiday of Pesach is designed to help us feel truly at home—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Discover why the seder is more than just a meal—it’s a mindful container for healing, listening, and growth. From childhood memories of a basement seder to the sacred ritual of opening the door for Elijah, Josh reflects on how Passover invites us into a space of belonging and liberation. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    8 mins
  • Spiritual Freedom and the Meaning of Passover: A Mindful Reflection (Part 1)

    Spiritual Freedom and the Meaning of Passover: A Mindful Reflection (Part 1)
    Mar 31 2025
    As we prepare for Passover, Rabbi Josh Feigelson invites listeners to reflect on the deeper spiritual message of the holiday: moving from servitude under Pharaoh to a sacred relationship with the Divine, and recognizing how independence and interdependence are intertwined. With stories from his Detroit roots and a short guided meditation, this episode offers both insight and practice for a meaningful season of renewal. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    10 mins
  • Havdalah: Shabbat Rituals, Transitions & Spiritual Mindfulness (Part 7)

    Havdalah: Shabbat Rituals, Transitions & Spiritual Mindfulness (Part 7)
    Mar 24 2025
    In this final episode of our 7-part Shabbat rituals miniseries, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the deep spiritual meaning of Havdalah, the ritual that marks the end of Shabbat and the beginning of a new week. Why do transitions matter so much—emotionally, spiritually, and culturally? From national borders to baseball strike zones, Rabbi Josh reflects on how boundaries shape our lives, and how Havdalah offers a mindful way to carry the peace of Shabbat into the week ahead. Soulful Jewish Living: Mindful Practices for Every Day is a production of Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media, and the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. This episode was sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. Be in touch at a new email address: josh@unpacked.media. --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History Wondering Jews
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    10 mins