Best Rabbi Mordechai Shifman Podcasts (2025)

1
Incentives, Identity, and the Heart of Parenting 25:48

Play Pause

6d ago25:48

25:48

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman draws a powerful parenting lesson from Parshat Bamidbar. Why are the Levites counted from just 30 days old, while others are counted from age 20? And what does this have to do with how we raise our children—with rewards, discipline, or love? Through the lens of a famous story about Hillel…

1
The Blame Game and the Bond: Parenting Through Crisis 27:00

14d ago27:00

27:00

This week on Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman reflects on a traumatic incident in his school community and draws deep parenting insights from the double Parsha that concludes Sefer Vayikra. In a world where blame is quickly assigned and values are easily lost, Rabbi Shifman challenges us to confront the real message: Are we raising our children w…

1
Every Child Counts: Lessons from Nadav and Avihu 3:36

14d ago3:36

3:36

In this episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Aaron explores a surprising insight from the Book of Numbers with the help of Rabbi Mordecai Shifman. Why does the Torah mention that Nadav and Avihu had no children—and what does that teach us about parenting, leadership, and legacy? Discover how the Torah’s census reveals a deeper message about indivi…

1
The Power We Carry: Teaching Our Children to Represent Hashem 24:57

28d ago24:57

24:57

In this week’s Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores a powerful lesson from Parshas Emor. Why does the Torah detail the background of the blasphemer? What connection is there between striking another Jew and cursing Hashem Himself? Rabbi Shifman uncovers a profound truth: every Jew is a living ambassador of God. As parents, this insight resha…

1
When Love Isn’t Enough: The Parenting Power of Respect 26:52

1M ago26:52

26:52

In this powerful episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores a surprising truth from this week’s double Parsha: even the greatest students of Rabbi Akiva—24,000 of them—were lost not due to a lack of love, but a lack of respect. What happens when closeness erodes boundaries? Why does Torah emphasize “don’t do to others what you wouldn’t …

1
Gems in the Walls: The Loving Discipline of Parenting 24:29

1M ago24:29

24:29

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman reflects on Parshas Tazria-Metzora and the lessons it holds for today’s parents. Against the backdrop of Yom HaShoah, he explores how messages—whether from history, our homes, or our children—are meant to be internalized, not ignored. What does a house afflicted with tzaraas have to do wi…

1
Teaching Beyond the Rules: Transformative Parenting from Parshat Shmini 26:08

2M ago26:08

26:08

This week on Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman unpacks the deeper parenting message behind the kosher laws in Parshat Shmini. Why does the Torah shift from saying “what may be eaten” to “what shall not be eaten by you”? And what does that teach us about how we raise our children? Using insights from the Ohr Sameach and Rambam’s Shmona Perakim, Rab…

1
Sacred Chores: Teaching Respect Through Ashes 28:54

2M ago28:54

28:54

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores Parshat Tzav and its deep parenting lessons hidden within the ashes of the korbanot. What can the Cohen’s act of cleaning the altar teach us about raising respectful, responsible children? Why does the Torah elevate even the seemingly mundane task of removing ashes into a sacred …

1
Raising Accountable Kids: Lessons in Leadership from Parshas Vayikra 21:05

2M ago21:05

21:05

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman opens Sefer Vayikra with a powerful parenting message hidden in the Torah’s laws of sin offerings. Why does the Torah say “when the leader sins” instead of “if”? What does it mean for a generation when its leaders admit mistakes? Drawing from classic commentaries—Rabbeinu Bachya, Rav Zalm…

1
Legacy in the Making: Trusting the Process of Parenthood 12:08

2M ago12:08

12:08

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores a powerful lesson from Parshat Pekudei: why was Betzalel, the grandson of Hur, chosen to build the Mishkan instead of his father, Uri? Through this fascinating question—and a moving real-life story about a teacher who never lived to see the impact he made—Rabbi Shifman uncovers a…

1
Strength in Identity – Lessons from Parshas Vayakhel 35:46

3M ago35:46

35:46

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores the Torah’s timeless wisdom on family dynamics, gender roles, and the power of identity within the home. Drawing from Parshas Vayakhel, he examines the deeper meaning behind the copper mirrors donated by the Jewish women for the Mishkan and how they played a crucial role in prese…

1
The Legacy of Mordechai – Parenting Through Purim and Ki Tisa 25:37

3M ago25:37

25:37

In this episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman uncovers the deep connection between Purim and Parshat Ki Tisa, revealing timeless lessons on parenting and personal growth. Exploring the Tikunei Zohar’s teaching that Yom Kippur is merely like Purim, we delve into the transformative power of embracing our past while shaping a better future. Th…

1
The Power of Validation in Parenting – Parshat Tetzaveh & Purim 30:00

3M ago30:00

30:00

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman uncovers a profound parenting lesson from Parshat Tetzaveh and its unexpected connection to Purim. Through the inauguration of the Kohanim and the historical downfall of Haman, we explore the critical role of validation in shaping confident children and strong relationships. Why was Moshe…

1
Building a Home, Building a Nation: Parenting Lessons from Parshat Terumah 25:08

3M ago25:08

25:08

In this week’s episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores Parshat Terumah and its deep connection to parenting and family life. Why does the Torah dedicate so much detail to the construction of the Mishkan? What does this teach us about building not just a physical sanctuary, but a spiritual home? Through profound insights and practical…

1
Restoring Dignity: Parenting Insights from Parashat Mishpatim 23:58

4M ago23:58

23:58

In this episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Mordechai Shifman uncovers powerful parenting lessons from the weekly parsha. This episode, explores how the Torah’s approach to justice, compensation, and emotional restoration provides a blueprint for raising children with dignity and resilience. Through the mitzvah of Hanakah (severance gifts for a f…

1
Yisro: The Key to Overcoming Egocentricity 21:41

4M ago21:41

21:41

In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Mordechai Shifman explores a powerful educational insight from the Ten Commandments, revealing a fundamental truth about parenting. Why is honoring parents (Kibbud Av Va’em) grouped with commandments between man and God? How does it connect to the prohibition against coveting? Drawing on a profound Midrash a…

1
Beshalach: The Power of Attention 23:47

4M ago23:47

23:47

In this episode, Rabbi Shifman explores a fascinating Midrash on Parshat Beshalach, revealing a profound truth about human nature and parenting. Why did Pharaoh cry when Bnei Yisrael left Egypt? What does this teach us about the deep need for attention and recognition? Through a powerful parable and insights from Torah and psychology, Rabbi Shifman…

1
Parshas Bo: Breaking Free 26:54

4M ago26:54

26:54

In this episode of Breaking Free, Rabbi Shifman uncovers deep psychological and parenting insights from Parshas Bo, exploring why people resist change—even when it’s in their best interest. What holds us (and our children) back from growth? How can we help them embrace challenges instead of fearing them? Through the themes of Makas Choshech (Plague…

1
Parenting Lessons from Parshas Vayeira 26:14

4M ago26:14

26:14

Join Rabbi Shifman in Guiding Generations, a thought-provoking podcast that uncovers timeless parenting lessons from the weekly Parsha. This week, in Parshas Vayeira, we examine Avraham Avinu’s ten trials and the deeper message behind Sarah’s abductions by Pharaoh and Avimelech. Through the concept of Maaseh Avos Siman Lebanim—the actions of our fo…

1
From Pharoh to Parenting: The Power of Labels and Lessons from Shemos 29:41

5M ago29:41

29:41

In this insightful episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman delves into the opening of Sefer Shemos, exploring the emergence of the Jewish nation and the origins of anti-Semitism. He examines how Paroh’s labeling of the Jewish people as a “problem nation” set a precedent for centuries of discrimination and internalized negativity. Through this…

1
Gratitude, Accountability, and the Legacy of Rav Meir Shapiro: Parenting Lessons from Parshat Vayechi 30:45

5M ago30:45

30:45

In this episode, Rabbi Mordechai Shifman shares profound lessons from Parshat Vayechi and the timeless legacy of Rav Meir Shapiro, the visionary behind Daf Yomi. Reflecting on a recent trip to Poland, Rabbi Shifman recounts the inspiring story of Rav Shapiro’s life insurance policy sustaining his yeshiva and the eternal dividends of his Torah revol…

1
Parenting and Leadership: Parshas Vayigash 24:34

5M ago24:34

24:34

Join Rabbi Mordechai Shifman in this captivating podcast series where timeless messages from the weekly Torah portion are transformed into powerful lessons on parenting, leadership, and emotional growth. This week’s episode, based on Parshas Vayigash, delves into themes of empathy, favoritism, and family dynamics. Explore why Yaakov Avinu’s choices…

1
Parenting Lessons from Miketz and Chanukkah 33:17

5M ago33:17

33:17

Rabbi Shifman intertwines the wisdom of Parshat Miketz and the story of Hanukkah to uncover powerful lessons on parenting and education. Explore how the dedication of the Menorah with pure oil mirrors the need to set high standards in raising children, ensuring values are built to last. Through a deep dive into Rashi’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s d…

1
Vayeishev: Parenting Insights from Yosef’s Journey 19:31

6M ago19:31

19:31

In this thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Mordechai Shifman dives into the story of Yosef in Parshas Vayeshev to explore the psyche of a teenager and its parallels to modern parenting. Through the lens of Yosef’s dual identity as a “naar”—simultaneously youthful and responsible—Rabbi Shifman unpacks lessons on potential, self-perception, and the del…

1
Vayishlach: Parenting Lessons from Yaakov 22:10

6M ago22:10

22:10

In this episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman explores powerful parenting lessons from Parsha Vayishlach. Drawing from Yaakov’s interaction with Esav, he examines Yaakov’s decision to prioritize his children’s well-being, adjusting his pace to protect their growth and future. Through Torah insights, Rabbi Shifman highlights the importance o…

1
Parshas Vayeitzei: The Foundations of a Nation 28:04

6M ago28:04

28:04

Rabbi Mordechai Shifman explores Parshas Vayeitzei, uncovering profound insights into the formation of the 12 tribes and the unique roles of Yaakov, Eisav, and Leah in shaping the Jewish nation. Through their stories, we learn how qualities of leadership, resilience, and spiritual growth were integrated into the foundations of the Jewish people. Ga…

1
Lessons from Toldos: Building Growth-Focused Relationships 26:36

6M ago26:36

26:36

Rabbi Mordechai Shifman draws timeless lessons from Parsha Toldos about marriage, personal growth, and parenting. Explore the transformative power of commitment in relationships, how striving for growth as a couple inspires children, and why the Torah emphasizes connection and forgiveness. Practical insights for building stronger families and guidi…

1
Chayei Sarah: Lessons from Avraham and Sarah 13:39

7M ago13:39

13:39

In this compelling episode of "Guiding Generations," Rabbi Shifman delves into Parshat Chayei Sarah to explore profound life lessons on aging, respect, and the enduring value of wisdom gained through experience. Drawing from the story of Avraham and Sarah, he addresses our society’s obsession with youth and the contrasting Torah perspective on the …

1
Torah Parenting Lessons from Avraham 26:04

7M ago26:04

26:04

In this episode of "Guiding Generations," Rabbi Shifman delves into the trials of Avraham as recorded in Parsha Vayeira, extracting timeless lessons for today’s parents. He examines the abductions of Sarah by Pharaoh and Avimelech, highlighting two distinct tests: dealing with lust and handling dominance. Rabbi Shifman explores how these challenges…

1
Lech Lecha: Prioritizing Family 20:52

7M ago20:52

20:52

In this episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman unpacks the deep lessons of Parshas Lech Lecha, exploring Avraham and Sarah's journey and how it reveals essential principles for creating a strong family foundation. This week, Rabbi Shifman focuses on the significance of Avraham pitching Sarah’s tent first—a subtle but powerful act that unders…

1
Building Positive Jewish Identity: Lessons from Parshas Noach 28:56

7M ago28:56

28:56

In this week's episode of Guiding Generations, Rabbi Shifman delves into Parshas Noach, exploring the powerful message of cultivating a positive Jewish identity for our children. Drawing from the story of Nimrod, the symbolism of the four species on Sukkos, and the inspiring actions of Ashur, Rabbi Shifman emphasizes the importance of shaping a fam…

1
Foundations of Fulfillment: Insights on Marriage, Parenting, and Connection from Parsha Ki Savo 25:37

8M ago25:37

25:37

In this enlightening episode, Rabbi Shifman delves into Parsha Ki Savo, uncovering its essential teachings on building strong foundations in marriage, effective parenting, and our spiritual relationship with Hashem. By exploring the interconnections between marital harmony, nurturing our children, and fulfilling our divine obligations, this discuss…

1
Parsha Ki Teitzei: Navigating Family Dynamics 26:02

9M ago26:02

26:02

In this episode, Rabbi Mordechai Shifman delves into Parsha Ki Teitzei, connecting its teachings to the profound themes of Rosh Hashanah and the complexities of family relationships and personal accountability. As we approach the High Holidays, Rabbi Shifman explores the narratives of Sarah and Yishmael, reflecting on their relevance to our modern …

1
Wisdom in the Word: Unpacking Parental Guidance in Parsha Shoftim 26:08

9M ago26:08

26:08

Join Rabbi Shifman on "Guiding Generations" as he explores Parsha Shoftim, revealing its deep lessons on community responsibility and parenting. Discover how the Torah's guidelines for community elders can enhance our relationships with children, fostering a sense of belonging and confidence. This episode offers practical wisdom for nurturing the n…

1
Insights on Gratitude: Learning from Parsha Chukas 11:41

11M ago11:41

11:41

Explore the profound themes of Parsha Chukas with Rabbi Shifman, focusing on the concept of recognizing and appreciating the benefits received rather than merely considering intent. This episode unpacks the pivotal moments where Bnei Yisrael interact with the nations of Sichon and Og, highlighting how Moshe's diplomatic efforts and subsequent confl…

1
Navigating Conflict: Lessons from Parsha Korach 27:59

11M ago27:59

27:59

In this episode, Rabbi Shifman takes us through Parsha Korach, examining the dramatic story of Korach's rebellion against Moshe's leadership. We explore the nature of disputes within communities, distinguishing between destructive conflicts and those that are "for the sake of Heaven." Drawing insights from Pirkei Avot, Rabbi Shifman discusses how c…

1
Lessons of Leadership and Legacy: Understanding Parsha Shelach 22:08

11M ago22:08

22:08

In this episode, Rabbi Shifman delves into Parsha Shelach, exploring the catastrophic story of the spies (Meraglim) and its enduring impact on Jewish history. We'll examine the complexities of the spies' characters and decisions, and how these events set Tisha B'Av as a date of tragedy throughout Jewish history. The podcast will also draw parallels…

1
Parsha Behalosecha: The Essence of Humility 16:55

12M ago16:55

16:55

Join Rabbi Shifman as we delve into Parsha Behaalotecha, focusing on the exemplary humility of Moshe Rabbeinu and its implications for parenting. This episode examines how Moshe's humility and the incidents with Miriam and Aaron can teach us about balancing authority and humility in parenting. Learn how recognizing and respecting our own strengths …

1
Sefer Bamidbar and Shavuos: Heritage & Education 22:21

12M ago22:21

22:21

This episode takes us into Sefer Bamidbar and the upcoming festival of Shavuot, highlighting their relevance to modern parenting. Rabbi Shifman discusses the Parsha's unique census, where each individual is counted by name, illustrating the importance of acknowledging each child's unique identity in our educational and parenting approaches. As we p…

1
Parsha Bechukosai: Chessed Starts at Home 21:26

1y ago21:26

21:26

Dive into Parsha Bechukotai with Rabbi Shifman as we reflect on the enduring lessons of the Sinai covenant and its modern implications for family dynamics and community engagement. This episode unpacks the tokukha—reproof and blessings—as a framework for understanding our obligations to Torah and chessed (acts of kindness) within our families.…

1
Parsha Behar: Nurturing Independence 21:26

1y ago21:26

21:26

Discover key parenting strategies from Parsha Behar with Rabbi Shifman. This Shiur focuses on the importance of early intervention and support, drawing parallels between Torah teachings on community assistance and raising independent, resilient children. Gain insights into fostering self-reliance and dignity from a young age, inspired by the wisdom…

1
Parshas Emor: Elevating Family Values 24:33

1y ago24:33

24:33

Dive into the premiere episode of "Guiding Generations" as Rabbi Mordechai Shifman illuminates Parsha Emor's profound teachings on respect, holiness, and the power of words. This episode offers a deep exploration of how the high standards set for priests can inspire today's parents in guiding their children with principles of sanctity and respect. …