Living Our Beliefs

Episode 66. Lindsay shares her experiences as an Orthodox Jewish woman, discussing her deep engagement with Orthodox Judaism, the challenges and frustrations she faces within her community, and her efforts in advocating for women's inclusion and agency in religious practices. This is a fitting conversation during the Jewish holiday of Passover, with its themes of journeys, change, and relationship with God. Also, one of the key elements of the Passover Seder just held around the world, is asking questions. Lindsey, in her ongoing Jewish study, teaching, and earlier doctoral work, is dedicated to asking questions and seeking the answers from within her British Orthodox perspective. Her lifelong passion for studying the Jewish sacred texts, as well as decades spent on increasing Orthodox women’s engagement with that material testify to the richness of these texts, and the value of using your knowledge to effect change, however long it takes. Highlights: · Lindsay's diverse roles and influences · Women's agency in Orthodox Jewish communities · Fulfillment and commitment to faith through Torah study · Teaching and leading study groups · Evolution of Social Norms and Halakhic Decisions · Engagement with Orthodox learning, feminism, and at the London School of Jewish Studies · Struggles and frustrations faced by women in the Orthodox community Social Media links for Lindsay: London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE), Religion & Global Society Unit (RGS) – https://www.lse.ac.uk/rgs London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) – https://www.lsjs.ac.uk/ Abraham Initiatives, UK – https://abrahaminitiatives.org/taiuk/ Council of Christians & Jews – https://ccj.org.uk/about-us Midreshet Lindenbaum (Seminary) – https://www.midreshet-lindenbaum.org.il/ Nisa-Nashim – https://www.nisanashim.com/ Nishmat (Seminary) – https://nishmat.net/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 65. This is the second part of my conversation with Audrey Reich. In this second part, Audrey talks about how she incorporates her Jewish teachings and values into her art classes, creating a diverse and open environment for her students. Whether teaching in a Jewish school or a secular school in New York City, Audrey's experiences with students from various cultural, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds have inspired her to foster open dialogue and appreciation for different perspectives. She also reflects on her personal art, and how her artworks have been influenced by her visits to Tarnów, Poland where her father’s family comes from. Highlights: · Teaching art in Jewish and secular K-12 schools with diverse student populations. · Engaging discussions about international events like the funeral of Queen Elizabeth. · Managing open discussions and differing opinions in the classroom. · Personal experiences and connections related to Jewish history and heritage. · Discovering personal connections and roots in Tarnów relating to her family history. · Audrey's personal art and how it reflects her experiences. Social Media links for Audrey: Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center – https://hhrecny.org/generations-forward/#unger Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14866705-art-as-a-tool-for-cultural-understanding-audrey-reich Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 64. Since Muslims are currently celebrating Ramadan, Nayma has graciously returned to the podcast to share her experience of the annual holiday, what she does and why it is important to her. For Nayma, Ramadan is a capsule of light, a pause button releasing her from the hamster wheel of daily life. She takes us on a journey through the traditions of iftar, the unique aspects of Ramadan in Bangladesh and the U.S., as well as the profound impact of fasting on the mind, body, and spirit. She reveals the spiritual significance and explains the critical elements of the annual month-long holiday: fasting, breaking the fast in community, prayer, reading the Qur’an, and giving charity. Highlights: · A celebration of strength and mindfulness. · Connection with God and engagement with the community. · Mindful practices and self-restraint. · Amplification of prayers and attention to God. · Detox for mind, body, and soul. · Variety of iftar meals in the US compared to Bangladesh. References: Nayma's episode #26 - Grateful to God https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/podcast-1/episode/7a113141/26-nayma-tasnim-islam-grateful-to-god Yaqueen Institute articles on Ramadan – - https://yaqeeninstitute.org/read/paper/how-does-ramadan-work-a-beginners-guide - https://yaqeeninstitute.org/watch/series/pillar-4-what-is-the-purpose-of-fasting Recipe – Beguni (Chickpea flour battered deep fried eggplant): Ingredients: 4 Tbl. Chickpea flour One 4-5" eggplant Chotpoti Moshola (Chat Masala) Cayennne Pepper and Cumin Powder (alt. to Chat Masala) Salt Oil (for deep frying) Steps: Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14781162 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. Learning about how Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith can prompt questions and exploration. Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 63. Audrey Reich is an artist and art teacher in New York and is also involved in Holocaust education. Audrey is a speaker and board member of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center. Daughter of two Holocaust survivors, she credits her parents with modeling awe and appreciation, openness and curiosity. Despite their trauma, deportations, and long paths to the U.S. they each managed to heal some and focus on building a new future. They neither dwelt in the past nor forgot it. Audrey has much to share, so I have made it into two parts. In this first part, we talk about her family, childhood, Poland, and begin exploring her teaching. Highlights: · The evolution of Audrey's engagement with the Jewish community, from a conservative synagogue to an open modern orthodox community · Audrey’s parents are Holocaust survivors. The impact of their resilience and curiosity about life, is evident in their openness to different backgrounds and stories. · The importance of active remembrance of the past, coupled with a focus on reconciliation and moving forward rather than living in anger and resentment. · Audrey's exploration of Poland and China to document her family's story and her role as the family's storyteller. · Audrey's efforts to bridge cultural differences, particularly in relation to the Jewish community in Poland. · Audrey's approach to educating students about the Holocaust, emphasizing the role of active witnesses and the impact of carrying on the victims' stories. · Lessons learned from art history and Judaism, and how they intersect in the appreciation of nature, craftsmanship, and the ability to create something from nothing. Social Media links for Audrey: Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center – https://hhrecny.org/generations-forward/#unger Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14687177 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 62. Esteemed scholar Dr. Amir Hussain, Professor of Theological Studies at Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles), author of five books, and immediate past President of the American Academy of Religion (AAR) joins me for a lively discussion of the contemporary Muslim experience in North America. Despite the presence of Muslims arrived in the US in the first slave ships, the long history of participation in American society has gone unnoticed and unappreciated. Certainly, since the September 11 terrorist attack and now again with the war in Gaza, Muslims have been subject to harassment and Islamophobia. Many such acts of hate are motivated by inaccurate and misguided assumptions about Muslims, who they are and what they believe. The day-to-day life is not all bad nor is it the same in every place. Amir and I cover these and other topic in this engaging conversation. Highlights: · Diversity within American Islam, including ethnic and sectarian differences · Cooperation and understanding between different religious groups in the U.S. · Stereotypes within the Muslim and Jewish communities · Coexistence, integration, and blending into society for minority communities · Misperceptions about Islam and Muslims · Importance of education in changing perceptions and the need for diverse Muslim representation Social Media links for Amir: Loyola Marymount University – http://faculty.lmu.edu/amirhussain/ American Academy of Religion (AAR), Immediate Past President – American Academy of Religion Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/podcast-1/episode/7f3bd8f1/bonus-understanding-the-american-muslim-experience-dr-amir-hussain Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 61. Rabba Sally Shore-Wittenberg and Anastasia Solberg join me for a compelling discussion about Psalm 105, one of Rabbi Nachman’s ten Psalms for General Remedy. Using different translations, we delve into its connection to the Passover story and the roles of Joseph and Moses. Themes include seeking divine intervention, the power of individuals in the face of challenges, and the symbolic implications of seeking God's presence. Highlights: · Plagues struck Egypt, leading to Israel's exodus. · Role of key figures Joseph and Moses. · Desperate cry from the pit of despair. · Personal agency and divine intervention. · Meaning of "seeking God's face". Books and People Referenced in this episode: · Ten Psalms for General Remedy, according to Rabbi Nachman – Psalms 16, 32, 41, 42, 59, 77, 90, 105, 137, 150 · Robert Alter, The Book of Psalms · Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, 1808-1888 · Gaya Aranoff Bernstein, Psalmsongs · Koren Weekday Siddur (Rabbi Jonathan Sacks translation) · Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav, 1772-1810 Social Media links for the guests: Rabba Sally Shore-Wittenberg, Kerhonkson Synagogue – https://www.kerhonksonsynagogue.org Anastasia Solberg, The Music Institute of Sullivan and Ulster Counties, Ellenville NY – https://misucatskills.org/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14549506-exploring-psalm-105-r-sally-shore-wittenberg-anastasia-solberg-meli-solomon Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. Hearing about how Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, offer new ideas and questions: Is your way similar or different? Is there a practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 60. Bec’s many strands of deep Jewish beliefs and practice in Reconstructionist Judaism are woven through her creative expressions. Inspired during her rabbinic school years, she has since become a soferet (Torah scribe) and potter. She has also become a mother. Contrary to many people’s complaints about stress and conflicts between differing aspects of their lives, for Bec her scribal arts, pottery, and parenting feed each other, adding much richness and creative outlets to her life. Tune in to learn about the inspiration and experience, and how that creativity is inherently accessible, healing, and liberatory. Highlights: · Steeped in the Reconstructionist community since childhood. · Repairing Torah scrolls involves energy and intention. · Bringing Torah to life through hands-on experiences. · Living a life that is sacred, creative, connected to nature, and intertwined with others. · The impact of gender on Bec's work as a female scribe. · Integration of pottery, rabbinical studies, being a soferet, and motherhood. · Reconstructionist Judaism values tradition but welcomes evolution. Social Media links for Bec: Website – https://www.kotevetstudios.com/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14461216 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 59. The Green Sabbath Project, founded by Jonathan Schorsch in 2019, promotes the concept and ritual of a weekly earth day. Taking a day of rest for yourself and the environment is eminently reflective of the sabbath. Although Jonathan draws from his Jewish heritage, the Green Sabbath Project intentionally avoids promoting any particular religious beliefs or language. Jonathan sees potential learning between religious and non-religious people in connecting the values of a weekly day of rest and reducing the impact on the environment. Taking on this practice is both a simple action and a very flexible practice with deep benefits. Highlights: · The Green Sabbath Project aims to promote sustainable living through practices inspired by the principles of Shabbat. · The project avoids religious language to appeal to a wider audience and promote ecological consciousness. · People need guidance, incentives to act sustainably and step off the hamster wheel. · The project has three parts: education, gatherings, and encouraging people to observe Green Sabbaths. · Promoting sustainable living and ecological thinking as complementary to religious and spiritual approaches. · We need to re-think how we eat, shop, work, and relate to the environment. Social Media links for Jonathan: Website – https://www.greensabbathproject.net Website – https://www.jassberlin.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-schorsch-a27630276 University of Potsdam – https://www.juedischetheologie-unipotsdam.de/en/chairs/jewish-religious-and-intellectual-history/prof-dr-jonathan-schorsch Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14372271 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 58. Rev. Dr. Terrlyn Curry Avery, a pastologist (ordained minister and licensed psychologist), TEDx speaker, and author, joins me to talk about her second book Dismantling Racism: Healing Separation from the Inside Out. Packed with stories of anti-racism and ways to increase one’s sacred intelligence, Dismantling Racism proved a rich and engaging topic for our conversation. Terrlyn shares her ideas on the intersection of sacred motive, self-ish mindset and shared movement. We can each contribute something to this critical personal and communal work. Quoting the bible’s Scroll of Esther, she notes that “You were born for such a time as this.” Tune in for inspiration! Highlights: · Sacred Motive, Self-ish Mindset and Shared Movement · Tear down harmful systems and increase racial equity · Focus on continual growth, incorporate small actions into your life. · BREATHE: Breathe, Reflect, Engage, Adjust, Heal · Breath as a connection to the Divine, to the sacred. · Acknowledge and use the anger of injustice and connect with others in a loving way. · Learn, ask questions, and listen for the wisdom. References: Robin Diangelo – White Fragility: Why it’s so Hard for White People to Talk About Racism Social Media links for Terrlyn: Sacred Intelligence – www.sacredintelligence.com Dismantle Racism Movement – www.dismantleracismmovement.com TEDx Speaker: Wounded by Religion Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/terrlyncurryavery Instagram – revdrtlc Twitter – RevDrTLC LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-terrlyn-l-curry-avery/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14286736-dismantling-racism-rev-dr-terrlyn-curry-avery Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 57. As an American Reform Rabbi who made Aliyah (moved to Israel) about a year ago with her family, she has found herself in an all-too-real Israel. Her lifelong liberal leaning into the Ruach (spirit) and not the war of the prayer she grew up with, has been shattered. Discovering that both spirit and war is necessary has been humbling. That said, joining the ranks of volunteers, in her case doing agricultural work near the Gaza border, has reconnected her with the original vision of Israel. Moreover, being swept up in the national spirit has been like nothing she’s ever experienced. On a spiritual level, she has found both yoga and the ancient words of the Shabbat service to be grounding. Highlights: · Amidah prayer evokes unity and solidarity. · Individual spirituality, synagogue community, and national spirit. · National spirit and sense of togetherness and resilience. · Finding light and hope in times of trauma. · Intensified Jewishness and Israeliness since October 7th. Social Media links for Tara: Website – https://talkingpeace.org.il Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14211730 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 56. Ever since Esther picked up the Torah in high school, she has been curious about the missing bits of scripture which bridge decades of many men’s lives and most women altogether. Her love for stories led her to imagine possible stories to fill those gaps in Torah. With scripture as inspiration, Esther’s historical fiction writing is a process of wonder and discovery. Figures and narrative turns appear seemingly unbidden in her mind. Her newest novel, The Scrolls of Deborah, is the life-story of Deborah, the nurse maid of Rebekah. A large family network surrounds those two central figures, expanding our sense of Rebekah’s family and life. By filling in the narrative gaps, Esther brings these distant biblical figures alive, giving the contemporary reader an opportunity to imagine life in biblical times. The Scrolls of Deborah is the first of a trilogy, and will be released in February 2024, though it is currently available for pre-order anywhere you buy your books. Highlights: - Raised Conservative and now follows Traditional Jewish practices her own way. - Imagination and creation of stories - Connection between breath and faith - Calls the Divine Ya, a shortened form of the Name – YHVH – normally pronounced Adonai - Incorporates belief into daily life through breath practice - The moon is an important celestial connection to divinity - Daily life influenced by the Torah References: Anita Diamond – The Red Tent Sue Monk Kidd – The Book of Longings Did Jesus Have a Baby Sister? – Dory Previn song covered by Sweet Honey in the Rock and others Social Media links for Esther: Website – https://www.esthergoldenberg.com Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14144469 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 55. The Friends of Sia'h Shalom seeks to strengthen ties between Jerusalem-based Sia’h Shalom and the North American Jewish community. Sia’h Shalom Circles in North American cities bring together diverse and highly divided groups of Jews, both lay leaders and rabbis, creating spaces for listening and spiritual growth in the increasingly polarized North. American Jewish landscape. As co-director of the Friends of Sia'h Shalom Rabbi Tara Feldman speaks from the heart and head about the vital importance of “conversing across polarities” in Israel. Though recorded prior to the current Israel/Hamas war, her message and that of Sia'h Shalom are always relevant and timely messages. Tara and her husband and co-director Meir believe that speaking and listening in peace is the root, the soil and sun, the water the light and air, that has the power to help solve even our most intractable challenges. Highlights: · Sia’h Shalom fosters dialogue and healing through listening, encouraging dialogue and unity. · Diverse views within Jewish communities need understanding. · Dialogues empower leaders, raise issues, and build unity despite painful interactions and brokenness. · Tara would feel despair over inability to bridge political divides without the conversation circles “conversing across polarities”. · The program explores modalities, similarities, and cross-border dialogue. Social Media links for Sia’h Shalom: Website – https://talkingpeace.org.il Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14061117 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 54. Since his childhood in Los Angeles, Daniel has lived in various parts of the U.S. as well as in Israel, Italy, and Germany. In each place, Daniel has enriched his Jewish practice by familiarizing himself with the local language and traditions, including trope (the melodies used to chant the Torah and other parts of the Bible in synagogue services). Another expression of his curiosity about histories and cultures is through writing liturgical texts and prayers. Daniel also taps into his lifelong fascination with the weather in order to get to know, and respond to, a place. For instance, upon moving to Arizona, he found a connection between that desert climate and Israel, inspiring him to write a new prayer for the Southwest’s summer rainy season, which he linked directly to a Torah portion read each year in June or July. In these and other ways, different aspects of his identity – including being an Ashkenazi Jew and American – reinforce one another. Highlights: - For Daniel, Jewish identity is grounded through food, sounds, texts, and melodies, not a particular denomination. - Daniel values the use of different languages and melodies in synagogue services. - He writes liturgy and enjoys exploring new elements of holidays and other aspects of Jewish tradition. - Living in various countries has facilitated exposure to different forms of Jewish practice. - Learning about the weather in a new home prompted the composition of new Jewish liturgy, such as Daniel’s prayer for the Southwest Monsoon after moving to Arizona. - Exposure to different Jewish narratives in Berlin expanded Daniel’s knowledge of German-Jewish history beyond the Holocaust. Social Media links for Daniel: Shofarot – https://ritualwell.org/ritual/shofarot-tripartite-proposal American Kaddish – https://www.tikkun.org/tikkundaily/2018/11/02/an-american-kaddish/ “New Simanim for a New Year (5781) – https://ritualwell.org/ritual/new-simanim-new-year-5781/ Monsoon prayer – https://ritualwell.org/ritual/tefillat-ha-monsoon-prayer-southwest-monsoon “Praying for the Monsoon: An Arizona Liturgical Adventure” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lLGR-TBgSI Homage to the Italian Jewish tradition (and Purim) – https://youtu.be/-njuXO2sqso Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/14024564 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 53. Abdur-Rahman, a Muslim raised in Karachi Pakistan, he currently lives in three countries, carrying the richness of his interreligious extended family and early experience of adjusting to various cultural environments. Fortified by these formative years and his years in marketing, Abdur-Rahman is creating a book called Prophetic Persuasion. Using words of four prophets from the Abrahamic faiths, he stresses the value of common messages through which people can influence others and establish a moral compass. In conversation, we explore the challenges of bringing such sources into the workplace and how to balance uniqueness of vision and need to find common ground among other things. A note from my guest, Abdur-Rahman: “Meli and I approached our conversation with caution given the backdrop of the escalating Israel-Palestine war. I fear I was too cautious in distancing myself from the conflict. While some things are complex, others are simple. We must continue to seek dialogue while also speaking for justice and for peace.” Highlights: · Prophetic Persuasion elements derived from biblical and Quranic prophets: Moses, Jesus, Joseph, and Mohammed · Framework: listen, give, connect, imagine, invite, love. · Enriching lives and providing a moral compass in the business world · Challenges of discussing faith in the workplace · Business application of the ‘Listen before you speak’ principle. · Risk of selectively interpreting scriptures and traditions · Different interpretations based on proximity to the source Social Media links for Abdur-Rahman Syed: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdurrahmansyed Website – www.propheticpersuasion.org Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13937937 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 52. Rabbi Molly Karp was raised with both the message she could do anything, and the Orthodox Jewish day school's many restrictions for girls. Added to this was time in nature, on Israeli kibbutzim, and in Judaic Studies courses. Her passion and skills with Jewish education were apparent early on and she has dedicated most of her professional life to that work. She has also acquired rabbinic ordination and been a congregational rabbi. Doing things in her own way and not according to a denominational “party platform” is important to her. Teaching in her own program – SAJE: Senior Adult Jewish Education – allows for that. In her experience, adults know what they want to learn and her job is to teach them in the best way she can. Highlights: 00:11:45 Historical realization, Jewish diversity, childcare on kibbutz 00:19:06 Reform religious school --> raising kids --> therapy --> Jewish mindfulness program --> embracing role as a rabbi. 00:21:20 Formed SAJE after the Jewish Federation ended WAJE. Jewish adult education, Montessori-inspired. 00:30:48 Diversity in Jewish beliefs and practices continues. 00:35:23 Center of Torah: Love others as yourself. 00:37:57 "Embrace Jewish roots, be the change." 00:40:29 Common reactions to my identity as a rabbi are the person's self-criticism and their grievances against Judaism. Social Media links for Rabbi Molly Karp: Website – www.rabbimollykarp.com Email – rabbimollykarp@gmail.com Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13846558 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 51. My friend and fellow podcaster, Beatriz Nour, takes the helm for this special episode. Beatriz normally hosts her In-betweenish podcast, a wonderful show all about people, like herself, who inhabit multiple cultures. For this episode, we have switched roles, and talk about my personal faith path, sorting out my sexuality, choosing Judaism and deepening my practice. It was fascinating to be a guest on my own show and be asked questions I had never considered. Highlights: 00:06:12 Didn't connect with Christianity, explored Jewish faith. 00:09:17 Multiple major life changes caused turmoil. 00:13:33 Parents saw lesbianism as hard but acceptable. 00:23:34 Religious freedom is important; misuse is common. 00:26:31 Talking with God Project started in Berlin, 2014. 00:30:12 Unique experience being part of German synagogue. 00:31:28 Active member of an egalitarian conservative synagogue with female rabbi; anchor for social life, learning, and Jewish practice. Social Media links for Beatriz at inbetweenish: Website – https://www.inbetweenish.net/ Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/0CeFBE0vLq00T67HRa38ugv Apple – htps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inbetweenish/id1595556530?mt=2&ls=1 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/inbetweenish.pod/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13762300 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 50. Woman of Valor is Lynne Golodner’s first published novel after six non-fiction books and two poetry collections. This engaging story lets us into the rewarding and complex life of Sally, who took on the Orthodox Judaism of her grandparents. Happily married to Barry and a mother to three young children, she leads a full and contented life, but trouble arrives unexpectedly. In this episode, Lynne talks about Woman of Valor, how the story draws on her own life experiences, authors that inspire her, and her writing in general. Highlights: 00:05:15 Grew up as a Reform Jew, then became Orthodox, and now affiliates as a Conservative Jew. 00:07:16 Religion structures, spirituality personalizes; community versus individual. 00:10:14 Believe in yourself, accept criticism, revise. 00:20:15 Religious experiences and cooking shaped her life. 00:27:31 Normalize conversation about sexuality; remove stigma 00:32:23 Inspiring authors build series, endure and evolve. Social Media links for Lynne: Website – https://lynnegolodner.com Your People website – https://yourppl.com Scotia Road Books – https://scotiaroadbooks.com Make Meaning podcast – www.makemeaning.org Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/lynnegolodner/ Substack – https://lynnegolodnerauthor.substack.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/LynneGolo/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnegolodner/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13675304 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Questions? Email Méli at – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 49. Mona grew up in Texas in the 1980s, the only veiled Muslim girl throughout her school years. Her faith and immigrant family was seen as strange and unknown, yet she was dedicated to her faith, even starting to veil by seven years old, which is earlier than required. Despite or perhaps because of this extreme minority experience, Mona has dedicated her life to education, most passionate about teaching youth about Islam, and helping them to develop good characters grounded in Islam. She takes pride in the long list of courses and books she has created, while acknowledging that future generations will approach life differently than her generation has, due to the increased social diversity, among other things. Highlights: 00:06:26 Identity struggles as a young Muslim in Texas. 00:11:29 Courses for adolescents in Southeast Houston, including religious and secular subjects, taught for 20 years. 00:23:16 Youth work challenges and solutions during COVID. 00:30:02 Multicultural center helps refugee kids access programming. 00:34:46 Religion not welcome in public schools, diversity encouraged. 00:40:32 Young people navigate future with right decisions. 00:42:43 Focus on common ground, appreciate differences. Social Media links for Mona: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmonaislam/ Website – Dr.MonaIslam.com Facebook, personal – https://www.facebook.com/mona.islam.9619/ Facebook, professional – https://www.facebook.com/dr.monaislam22/ MCC Texas – https://www.facebook.com/MCCTexas Multicultural Center – https://www.multiculturalcenter.net/ Rabata – https://www.rabata.org/board-of-directors/ The Islamic Seminary of America – https://islamicseminary.us/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13586018-teaching-youth-about-islam-dr-mona-islam Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Email Méli – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 48. As a columnist (The New York Times, the Daily Beast and elsewhere), speaker, published author, recovering attorney and practicing Muslim, Wajahat Ali brings a sharp eye and thoughtful commentary to the issue of religion in our modern world, especially the USA. The current political dissension and aggressive efforts by the right wing and Christian nationalists to impose their values regarding education and health care on all Americans, as well as the ceding of religion by liberals, raises critical issues. In this lively discussion we address a few of the related challenges, including religious liberty and illiteracy, religion as a cocoon against modernity, how to bridge the divides, and the role of fear in driving antagonism and protectionism. Discussing these issue and how religion plays a role is timely. Highlights: 00:04:00 Post-9/11, Muslims face discrimination and fear. 00:17:30 White Supremacy fuels bigotry against Jews, Muslims. 00:23:36 Traditions and identities shaping multicultural society. 00:28:28 Living in fear activates stress, impairs judgment, and turns people inward, selfish, and ignorant. Privileged individuals fear the gays and trans community, forgetting they face the same hate. Religion can act as a cocoon, but also as a sword against perceived enemies. 00:35:33 Take control of your actions and intentions. 00:41:06 Religious weakness of liberals and Democrats explained. 00:48:33 Intentionality in Islam leads to selfless love. References: Mallory McMorrow, Democratic State Senator (Michigan) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLWo8B1R0MY Social Media links for Wajahat: Website – https://www.wajali.com NY Times opinion piece, 23 June 2023 – https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/23/opinion/lgbtq-muslims.html?searchResultPosition=1 NY Times opinion piece, 16 Aug. 2023 – https://www.nytimes.com/2022/08/16/opinion/albuquerque-shia-sunni.html?action=click&module=RelatedLinks&pgtype=Article Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13500414 Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Email Méli – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/

Episode 47. David has traveled far, religiously speaking, from his upbringing in a largely secular Jewish home. Other than attending services at a Reform synagogue on Boston’s North Shore, there was minimal observance. Since then, he has gone through many phases, including flirting with atheism and participating in his college Hillel services, all the while maintaining the Jewish identity inherited from his parents. Over the past few years, he has found a mélange of communities. Participating in the local Chabad House and online learning with the Torah Studio satisfy his intellectual, service attendance and spiritual needs. While combining Orthodox and liberal communities is unusual, it suits David well. Besides his religious life, he is a practicing attorney in a non-profit firm and finds a meaningful connection between the law and Talmudic study, whereby both majority and minority opinions are preserved and honored. Additionally, he and his family spend as much time as possible in his wife’s native home of Mallorca, Spain, where he revels in the vibrant collection of Jews attending the one synagogue. Highlights: 00:03:41 Rediscovering Jewish identity through college and beyond. 00:08:20 Comfortably exploring Jewish identity, politically liberal. Found fitting communities through happenstance. 00:13:22 "The bathroom thing: Strange but practical prayer" 00:23:21 Unexpected encounter leads to involvement with Chabad. 00:33:51 Supportive spouse from Spain integrates into Jewish life. 00:39:13 Judaism and law practice share connections. Social Media links for David: LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-satin-8367b92b/ Niv Magazine – https://nivmag.com/ Social Media links for Méli: Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271 Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13460103-combining-jewish-paths-david-satin Follow the podcast! The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise: Is your way similar or different? Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore? Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. Comments? Email Méli – info@talkingwithgodproject.org The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org/