Best David Calderon Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 125: Dr. Ruth Calderon "The Enduring Power of Jewish Text" 58:26

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22d ago58:26

58:26

Dr. Ruth Calderon joins the podcast to reflect on the personal and intellectual journey behind her book, A Bride for One Night. She begins by discussing her background and the role her parents played in nurturing her love of Torah, as mentioned in the book’s dedication. She then unpacks her approach to the Talmud, describing how she reads aggadic t…

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Episode 124: Rabbi Dr. Yohai Makbili "Lost in Transmission" 1:03:26

1M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Dr. Yohai Makbili—a true modern Renaissance man. With a background in engineering and groundbreaking work translating and elucidating the writings of the Rambam, Rabbi Makbili brings a rare combination of analytical precision and deep Torah scholarship. His influential Hebrew translations of Maimonides' Guide…

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Episode 123: Olivia Friedman, Author "How Accurate is House of David?" 1:21:01

2M ago1:21:01

1:21:01

In this episode, we’re joined by writer, podcaster, and Judaic Studies teacher at Jewish Leadership Academy in Miami, Olivia Friedman for a deep-dive review of the hit Amazon Prime series House of David. Going character by character, we explore what the show gets right—and where it diverges—from the biblical narrative, paying close attention to the…

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Episode 122: Dr. Malka Simkovich "Discovering Second Temple Literature" 1:10:04

2M ago1:10:04

1:10:04

In her highly anticipated return to the podcast, Dr. Malka Simkovich takes us on a journey through the rich and complex world of Second Temple Judaism, drawing from her acclaimed book Discovering Second Temple Literature. We begin with the extraordinary discoveries of the Cairo Genizah and the Dead Sea Scrolls, and explore why these moments of pres…

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Episode 121: Gila Fine "The Madwoman in the Rabbi's Attic" 1:11:58

3M ago1:11:58

1:11:58

How are women really portrayed in the Talmud—and what happens when we look beyond the surface? In this episode, we speak with Gila Fine about her groundbreaking book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, where she takes us deep into the stories of the six named heroines of the Talmud: Yalta the shrew, Homa the femme fatale, Marta the prima donna, Her…

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Episode 120: Dr. Yael Ziegler "Making Sense of Midrash" 1:03:45

3M ago1:03:45

1:03:45

In this episode, Dr. Yael Ziegler shares her thoughtful and layered approach to the study of Tanakh. Known for her deep literary readings and her commitment to both peshat and the broader interpretive tradition, she explains how elements like structure, repetition, and intertextuality shape her analysis of the biblical text. We explore her perspect…

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Episode 119: Rabbi Menachem Leibtag "The Case for the Gush Tanakh Method" 1:04:33

4M ago1:04:33

1:04:33

In this episode, we’re joined by Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, a leading educator in the Gush (Yeshivat Har Etzion) Tanakh methodology—a literary-contextual approach to the study of Tanakh that emphasizes peshat, structure, and thematic development, while reading the text in its historical and narrative context. Rabbi Leibtag lays out the foundations of …

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EP 141: Daniel Marin on Voicing Namor in Marvel Rivals – The First Mutant Speaks 1:03:50

4M ago1:03:50

1:03:50

Daniel Marin, the voice behind Prince Namor in Marvel Rivals, joins us this week to talk about stepping into the role of Marvel’s iconic sea king. With over 40 million players since launch, Rivals is making serious waves—and Daniel breaks down how he brought Namor’s strength, pride, and bite to life. We also swap gameplay tips to help you master th…

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Episode 118: Jessie Fischbein "Infertility in the Bible" 58:58

4M ago58:58

58:58

In this episode, we sit down with Jessie Fischbein, author of 'Infertility in the Bible: How the Matriarchs Changed Their Fate; How You Can Too.' Jessie’s book stands out for its informal, accessible style and its ability to resonate with readers beyond just Jewish or theistic audiences. We discuss what inspired her to write it and how readers stru…

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EP 140: Daredevil vs. a Mutant Femme Fatale: The Rise of Typhoid Mary 51:36

4M ago51:36

51:36

With Daredevil: Born Again hitting Disney+, we’re setting our radar on one of Daredevil’s most dangerous foes—Typhoid Mary! This isn’t just any villain origin; it’s a fever dream of seduction, fire, and psychological torment, all wrapped up in Ann Nocenti’s signature surrealism. We break down the chaos of Typhoid Mary’s first appearance, where she …

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Episode 117: Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel "Getting to Know Rashi" 1:35:22

4M ago1:35:22

1:35:22

As our 'Getting to Know the Rishonim' series continues, we explore the towering figure of Rashi with Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel, one of the foremost scholars of medieval Jewish thought. French Jewry produced a remarkable corpus of Torah commentators—from Rashi to Rashbam, Bechor Shor, Rav Yosef Kara, and Hizkuni. What makes this school of biblica…

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EP 139: New Mutants - S’ym-ple Murder? Illyana Rasputin Claps Back! With Special Guest One True Nerd King 56:16

5M ago56:16

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What’s a birthday without a little existential dread and a surprise demon attack? This week, we’re joined by Phil Taylor (a.k.a. One True Nerd King) to unpack New Mutants #14, where Illyana Rasputin goes from traumatized teen to Queen of Limbo in record time. The New Mutants try (and fail spectacularly) to take down S’ym, Professor X gets absolutel…

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Episode 116: Rabbi David Wolpe "Responding to Doubt, Division and Tragedy" 48:27

5M ago48:27

48:27

In this episode, Rabbi David Wolpe joins us for a thought-provoking conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing the Jewish people today. In the wake of October 7th, intra-faith dialogue is as critical as interfaith dialogue. The Jewish community must find ways to foster understanding, break down barriers, and build unity among divers…

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EP 138: Oh My Stars and Garters! A Chat with George Buza the Voice of Beast from X-Men '97 53:53

5M ago53:53

53:53

This week, we’re absolutely geeking out because George Buza—the legendary voice of Beast from X-Men: The Animated Series and X-Men ‘97—joins us! We talk all things Hank McCoy, his return to the role, and dive into Beauty and the Beast #2, where Beast and Dazzler’s short-lived romance takes a wild turn into gladiator-style chaos. George shares stori…

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Episode 115: Dr. Erica Brown "The Torah of Leadership" 52:35

5M ago52:35

52:35

Leadership isn’t just a modern concern—it’s embedded in the DNA of the Torah itself. In this episode, Dr. Erica Brown unpacks the centrality of leadership in Jewish thought, drawing on insights from The Torah of Leadership. She explains why leadership has been a defining theme of her work, how the need for strong leadership has intensified—especial…

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Episode 114: Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet "From Creation to Covenant" 1:26:49

6M ago1:26:49

1:26:49

How does Genesis lay the foundation for humanity’s covenantal relationship with God? Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet joins us to share insights from his groundbreaking book Genesis: From Creation to Covenant. Together, we explore how the Torah portrays the patriarchs—Avraham, Yitzhak, Yaakov, and Yosef—as central figures in this process, with the recurring us…

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EP 137: Bow Before the Queen of Limbo! Magik Writer Ashley Allen Joins the Chaos 1:00:16

6M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

Limbo’s fiercest warrior is back, and she’s taking NO prisoners! This week, we’re cracking open Magik #1 with the incredible Ashley Allen, the writer bringing Illyana Rasputina’s latest demon-slaying adventure to life!Magik has faced Hell itself (literally), but what fresh horrors lurk beneath the Alaskan ice? How does this new series push her to h…

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Episode 113: Joshua Skarf "Torah Through the Lens of Architecture" 50:53

6M ago50:53

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In this episode, we sit down with architect and author Joshua Skarf to discuss his fascinating book, ArchitecTorah: Architectural Ideas in Judaism and the Weekly Torah Portion. Skarf offers a unique perspective on how the principles of architecture and engineering can deepen our understanding of Torah, shedding new light on iconic narratives and th…

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Episode 112: Rabbi David Aaron "Off the Derekh" 42:05

6M ago42:05

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What drives individuals to leave the Orthodox path, and how have modern influences like digital culture shaped this phenomenon? Rabbi David Aaron addresses these pressing questions and more, offering profound insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Orthodox Judaism today. This episode delves into the emotional and relational struggles…

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EP 136: Jean Grey vs. Madelyne Pryor: Memory Theft, Redemption, and Mutant Style – with David Calderon 56:18

6M ago56:18

56:18

Hold on to your Hellfire capes, X-Fans – this week, we're bringing fashion, feelings, and FIERCE clone drama to the mic! Joining us is none other than David Calderon, the fabulous host of The Geeky Gentlemen Podcast, known for his slick X-Men fashion videos and love of all things mutant – especially the iconic Jean Grey. Together, we tackle Dark We…

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Episode 111: Reb Zvi Goldstein "The End of Days" 1:41:58

6M ago1:41:58

1:41:58

We’re thrilled to welcome Reb Zvi Goldstein to the podcast for an in-depth exploration of three monumental topics in Jewish thought: Mashiach, Olam Haba, and Techiyat HaMetim. These concepts are often conflated, particularly in discussions about reuniting with loved ones who’ve passed away. The Rambam delves deep into each category, and we’re here …

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EP 135: Marvel’s What If...? Returns—And So Do the X-Men’s Asgardian Shenanigans 1:00:30

7M ago1:00:30

1:00:30

What if the X-Men traded Cerebro for Mjolnir? This week, we’re tackling one of the wildest "What If?" scenarios ever: What if the X-Men had stayed in Asgard? When Rahne Sinclair decides she belongs with her wolf prince boyfriend, Cyclops takes a vote that splits the team—literally! Loki, never one to miss a chaotic opportunity, rewrites the rules a…

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Episode 110: Channah Cohen "Guardians of the Flame" 47:49

7M ago47:49

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In this episode, we sit down with Channah Cohen, author of Guardians of the Flame: A Historical Fiction About the Wars of the Maccabim, to explore the inspiration behind her novel set during the time of the Maccabees. Channah shares how her work connects to the idea of reviving "heroes" in Jewish culture and discusses her take on the "shiddukh cris…

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Episode 109: Rabbi Simi Lerner "Rediscovering Rav Hirsch's Wisdom" 1:02:23

7M ago1:02:23

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In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Simi Lerner to explore the enduring relevance of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, a thinker whose insights into faith, identity, and modernity deserve far more attention. Rav Hirsch’s teachings, though often overlooked, offer a powerful framework for modern Jews striving to live with purpose and clarity in a comp…

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EP 134: Kraven the Hunter vs. the X-Men: Beast’s Desperate Gamble and Lorna’s Mysterious Vanishing Act! 38:38

7M ago38:38

38:38

With Kraven the Hunter swinging into theaters, we’re revisiting a classic clash: Kraven gives the X-Men a chilling ultimatum—let him hunt Hank McCoy, or Avia dies! Beast agrees, but the hunter’s venom-laced traps send Hank spiraling into a feral frenzy. Can the X-Men stop both Kraven and their friend before it’s too late? Meanwhile, Polaris disappe…

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Episode 108: Rabbi Gil Student "Articles of Faith" 1:21:54

8M ago1:21:54

1:21:54

Join us as we sit down with Rabbi Gil Student to explore his groundbreaking work in Jewish thought and scholarship. We begin with his journey as the founder of the influential Hirhurim/Torah Musings blog, delving into the motivations behind creating this pioneering platform and its lasting impact on the Jewish intellectual landscape in the internet…

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EP 133: A Very X-Men Thanksgiving: A Wedding Proposal, Gambit's Tight Bike Shorts, and Football Feuds 1:20:33

8M ago1:20:33

1:20:33

It’s turkey time with the X-Men! This week, we’re carving into Uncanny X-Men #308—a Thanksgiving classic where the team sets aside the danger to enjoy some much-needed downtime… or at least try to. We’re talking raking leaves, chaotic football games, and Gambit rocking impossibly tight yellow bike shorts (you’re welcome). As Scott and Jean take a r…

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Episode 107: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "Alphabetic Judaism" 1:17:59

8M ago1:17:59

1:17:59

In his third appearance on the show, Rabbi Abe H. Faur joins us for a thought-provoking conversation about the evolving dynamics of leadership and tradition within the Jewish community. We begin by examining the concepts of "Gedolim" and "Daas Torah," cornerstones of Haredi influence. Rabbi Faur shares his perspective on whether these ideas align w…

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Episode 106: Rabbi Moshe Taragin "Reclaiming Redemption" 55:54

8M ago55:54

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In this episode, we are honored to welcome back Rabbi Moshe Taragin to discuss his latest book, Reclaiming Redemption: Deciphering the Maze of Jewish History. This profound work examines the progression of Jewish history toward its ultimate goal—redemption—exploring how prophecies, the teachings of Chazal, and historical events shape our understand…

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EP 132: From Couture to Catastrophe – Writer Murewa Ayodele on Storm's New Path 1:03:02

9M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

This week, we’re thrilled to be joined by the mastermind himself, Murewa Ayodele, writer of Marvel’s newest Storm series! Together, we break down all the drama, power moves, and high-flying moments from issue #1, where Ororo Munroe’s solo story takes center stage.Here’s what’s brewing in this stormy session: ⚡ A Fashion Tempest: Ororo’s wardrobe ev…

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Episode 105: David Curwin "Neighbors Behind Fences" 1:02:55

9M ago1:02:55

1:02:55

In this episode, we welcome back David Curwin to discuss his recent essay, "Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits and Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik: Neighbors Behind Fences," published in Hakirah: The Flatbush Journal of Jewish Law and Thought. Curwin’s essay explores the lives and legacies of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik and Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits, two of the 2…

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Bonus EP: The Uncanny Experience: Legends, Laughter & Love from Sophomore Year 1:09:03

9M ago1:09:03

1:09:03

We’re taking you back to Xavier Institute for a whirlwind recap of The Uncanny Experience: Sophomore Year with special guests, Tiffie Starchild, Stefania Sassano (newly crowned House Hellfire Queen!), Old Fashioned Nerd, Omega-ticket holder Tyler Green Pope-Harris, and cosplay guest Michelle Waffle-Otero. Listen in as we swap stories about the most…

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Bonus EP: Agatha All Along: Xtopher, Chandilar, and the Halloween HeX-perience! 27:56

9M ago27:56

27:56

It's a haunted Halloween special like no other! X-Reads has been hexed! Under Agatha Harkness' dark spell, Chris and Chandler are transformed into... Xtopher and Chandilar, the hosts of X-Watch! In this eerie bonus episode, they tackle X-Men: Evolution's "The HeX Factor" where Scarlet Witch makes her explosive debut, with Agatha pulling the magical…

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EP 131: Martha Marion (X-Men 97’s Emma Frost) Scandalous Affairs and a Murder in the Mansion! 47:20

9M ago47:20

47:20

This week on X-Reads, we’re rolling out the diamond carpet for the incredible Martha Marion, the voice of Emma Frost in X-Men '97 and Fortnite! Together, we dissect the DRAMA (and we mean DRAMA) of New X-Men #139 — an issue where psychic warfare gets personal, fiery, and oh-so-deadly. Jean Grey isn’t just mad—she’s Phoenix-level furious, confrontin…

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Episode 104: Dr. Paul Copan "Is God a Moral Monster?" 1:26:27

9M ago1:26:27

1:26:27

Renowned Christian philosopher and theologian Dr. Paul Copan joins us to explore our shared values and address the ethical questions people are faced with when reading the Bible. He discusses how modern readers often overlook the Torah’s revolutionary impact by viewing it solely through a contemporary lens, which strips it of historical context. To…

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Episode 103: Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum "Questioning Belief" 1:19:41

10M ago1:19:41

1:19:41

Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum offers a refreshingly different approach to the deep questions of faith, one that immediately stands out from the typical answers often heard in outreach settings. For those who think critically and seek more than surface-level responses, his intellectual honesty and respect for scientific thought set him apart. In our conve…

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Episode 102: Rabbi Steven Pruzansky "Repentance for Life" 1:06:49

10M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Rabbi Steven Pruzansky to explore the rich themes of his latest book, "Repentance for Life" (Kodesh Press). Rabbi Pruzansky begins by sharing the inspiration behind the book, including the significant impact of his teacher, Rabbi Yisroel Chait. We then delve into the chapter "Repentance and…

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Episode 101: Rabbi Yaakov Beasley "Facing the Storm" 2:12:04

10M ago2:12:04

2:12:04

In this insightful episode, we welcome Rabbi Yaakov Beasley to discuss his book "Joel, Obadiah, and Micah: Facing the Storm," part of the acclaimed Maggid Studies in Tanakh series. Rabbi Beasley begins by sharing his background and what inspired him to write this work. He also introduces the Gush Tanakh Method for listeners unfamiliar with it, befo…

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Episode 100: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "The Jewish People at a Crossroads" 1:21:47

10M ago1:21:47

1:21:47

Prepare for a timely, sensitive, and important conversation as Rav Abe Faur makes his much-anticipated return to the podcast. In the wake of the traumatic and transformative attacks on October 7th, Hakham Faur has become increasingly vocal on social media, especially regarding issues within the Haredi community. He shares why these events compelled…

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Episode 99: Rabbi Avi Grossman "Halakha Demystified" 1:10:20

11M ago1:10:20

1:10:20

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Avi Grossman to explore the complexities of Halakha and its relevance to contemporary Jewish life. Rabbi Grossman begins by discussing why "Demystifying Halakha" is crucial for understanding and practicing Judaism today. We dive into the idea that the entire Torah was always meant to be practiced, a concept t…

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Episode 98: Rabbi Chaim Eisen & Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein "Does God Need Us?" 1:25:26

11M ago1:25:26

1:25:26

In this highly anticipated episode, we sit down with Rabbi Chaim Eisen and Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein to explore some of the most critical theological questions in Jewish thought. The conversation begins with an in-depth discussion on God's Oneness and Uniqueness, particularly through the lens of the phrase "Ein Od Milvado" ("There is nothing other …

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EP 130: Endgame in the Stars: The Epic Last Stand of the X-Men! 1:13:03

11M ago1:13:03

1:13:03

In this pulse-pounding episode, we dissect the explosive finale of X-Men: The End - Book Three: Men & X-Men #6! The end is here, and it’s as epic as it gets—Cassandra Nova is reborn as Phoenix, and her reign of terror knows no bounds. With the Shi’ar sun on the brink of supernova, it's up to the X-Men to make their final stand. Heroes fall, allianc…

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Episode 97: Rabbi Moshe Taragin "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below" 37:56

11M ago37:56

37:56

Join us as we sit down with Rabbi Moshe Taragin to explore his deeply thought-provoking book, "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below." We begin by delving into the motivations behind his writing and how recent tragedies have influenced his approach to discussing faith and doubt in the modern world. Rabbi Taragin opens up about the importance of validating…

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EP 129: Snikt! Wolversteve on the Deadpool & Wolverine Movie + How Wolverine Get His Adamantium Back 1:07:23

12M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Get ready for a berserker barrage of an episode as we welcome Wolversteve, the UK's ultimate Wolverine aficionado! This week, we claw our way through the Deadpool and Wolverine movie, spilling the beans on jaw-dropping cameos and mind-blowing character variants. Wolversteve shares tales of his most cherished collectible and his unforgettable advent…

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Episode 96: Ami Kozak, Comedian "Jewish Humor in Chaotic Times" 58:33

12M ago58:33

58:33

In this episode, we sit down with comedian and musician Ami Kozak, host of the Ami's House podcast and member of the band Distant Cousins, to delve into the nuances of his career and unique perspective as an orthodox Jew in the comedy world. We explore what initially drew him to comedy and the pivotal moments that solidified his path in the industr…

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Episode 95: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips "Talmud Reclaimed" 1:23:40

1y ago1:23:40

1:23:40

Rabbi Shmuel Phillips joins the podcast again to take us on a journey through his thought-provoking book, "Talmud Reclaimed." Join us as we explore the current state of Halakha and the subconscious reverence for the Halakhic status quo. Rabbi Phillips discusses the pivotal role of the Sanhedrin in the Halakhic system, explaining why without it, we …

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EP 128: The Ferocious and the Funny: Wolverine and Deadpool's 1st Encounter 46:30

1y ago46:30

46:30

In this action-packed episode, we're slicing through the iconic issue Wolverine #88, where legends collide for the first time! Witness the epic clash between the feral Wolverine and the merc with a mouth, Deadpool, in a battle that leaves no page unturned. Will Wolverine's weakened healing factor spell his doom? Can Kane save Vanessa from Deadpool'…

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Episode 94: Dr. Roslyn Weiss "Light of the Lord" 1:16:09

1y ago1:16:09

1:16:09

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Roslyn Weiss to explore her translation of Hasdai Crescas's Light of the Lord. We delve into the initial inspiration behind her translation project and the challenges she faced in capturing Crescas's philosophical nuances in English. Dr. Weiss provides insight into Crescas’s difficult life and the historical co…

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EP 127: Rio's Carnival and Hellfire Club Kidnappings with X-Men '97's Sunspot and Nina da Costa 57:24

1y ago57:24

57:24

This week we welcome Christine Uhebe, the voice of Nina da Costa in X-Men '97, with a surprise guest appearance by Gui Agustini, the voice of Sunspot! Join us as we dive into New Mutants #7, Nina's first appearance, and explore their family drama and the excitement of Rio's Carnival. Plus, we share exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from X-Men '97…

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EP 126: Sentient Sentinel at Bat: X-Men's Unexpected Playdate 1:01:53

1y ago1:01:53

1:01:53

On this episode we’re joined by Chad Anderson from the Graymalkin Lane Podcast to explore X-Men Annual Vol. 2 '96. Fresh from the Onslaught saga, the X-Men, X-Force, and Generation X attempt to unwind with a day of baseball and poolside fun at the mansion. They thought they could enjoy a rare day of peace, until a sentient Sentinel crashes the part…