Religion & SpiritualityJudaismSpirituality

REALLY JEWISH with Oliver Joseph

Oliver Joseph

Your podcast of Jewish enquiry, growth and emotional honesty.

Judaism is a religion that in every generation has had to reinvent itself and endure moments of transformation from the outside in and from the inside out. Our small tribe is one of striving and struggle. Join the conversation about what happens next…

This podcast was founded by Oliver Joseph and Yair Eldan, Oliver is a rabbi, religious, based in London, UK. Yair, secular, a Jewish law professor based in Jerusalem, Israel.

Oliver and guests run this weekly podcast examining all things Jewish with an eye on Jewish tradition, its connection to real life experience and our emotional and spiritual journey. Yair has become a regular contributor to the podcast.

We invite you in for an inside take on a conversation which has endured for more than 2000 years, across continents. We would love your feedback and to welcome you to the Really Jewish family.

Join Oliver Joseph and friends for REALLY JEWISH!

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27 episodes
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Thursday · 47 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E8 - 'Pick a Lane' - why orthodoxy, why frum?
S2:E8 - Rabbi Joseph Dweck talks to Rabbi Oliver - 'Pick a Lane' - why orthodoxy, why frum? Examining why you might choose a lifestyle of observance and belonging to as traditional community. The conversation explores the significance of living a religious life within Judaism, focusing on the covenant between God and the Jewish people, the importance of education, and the challenges faced by modern Jewish communities. Rabbi Joseph Dweck shares his personal journey as a rabbi and educator, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of Jewish identity and tradition. Takeaways Covenant with Abraham is foundational Judaism evolves with time
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October 29 · 51 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E7 - 'Pick a Lane' - What is Masorti?
'Pick a Lane' - What is Masorti? - the start of a new mini-series inside our REALLY JEWISH Podcast examining the essence of the different Jewish movments and streams. In this episode of the Really Jewish Podcast, Rabbi Joel Levy discusses the Masorti movement, exploring its interpretations of Judaism, the balance between tradition and modernity, and the challenges faced by contemporary Jewish communities. The conversation delves into the complexities of Jewish identity, the role of interpretation in religious practice, and the importance of community engagement in maintaining a vibrant Jewish life. Takeaways Masorti Judaism balances tradition and modernity Interpretation is key to Jewish identity Chapters 00:00 Understanding Masorti Judaism 05:50 The Role of Interpretation in Judaism 15:00 Navigating Tradition and Modernity 21:40 The Unique Aspects of Masorti Communities 39:01 Personal Reflections on Being Masorti
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October 22 · 47 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E6 - dealing in normal, boring as good?
The conversation between Rabbi Oliver and Sarah-Beth Neville in New York explores the themes of routine and the mundane in Jewish life, particularly during the month of Mar Cheshvan, contrasting it with the emotional highs of the previous months filled with festivals. This is the second part of a conversation that started in SE2:E4 with Rabbi Joel Levy. This week, Sarah-Beth Neville and Oliver Joseph discuss the paradox of seeking stability while also craving adventure, and how social media influences perceptions of normalcy and excitement. The conversation explores the gradual journey into Jewish life, emphasizing the importance of consistency and continuity in religious practice. It discusses the challenges and rewards of living a religious life, the significance of learning, and finding beauty in the mundane aspects of daily life Takeaways Boring can be comforting Routine offers relief after chaos Embracing continuity in Jewish life Finding beauty in the mundane Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Marcheshvan 02:57 The Value of the Mundane 05:47 Social Media and Perceptions of Life 12:12 The Journey of Rabbinical Study 17:51 The Balance of Study and Life 27:08 Journey into Jewish Life 29:04 Learning Opportunities in Judaism 32:36 Challenges of Religious Observance 37:58 The Cost of Religious Life 41:16 Finding Beauty in Restrictions
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October 15 · 46 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E5 - Turning the tables – Alon in the hot seat
SPECIAL EPISODE, Alon Ben Joseph in the host hot seat with Oliver Joseph and Yair Eldan. We talk motivations and experiences of hosting the Really Jewish podcast, focusing on personal journeys, the significance of their discussions, and the feedback they receive from listeners. The hosts reflect on the impact of their podcast on their understanding of Judaism and their personal growth. The conversation delves into the challenges and experiences of hosting a podcast focused on Jewish identity, community, and the complexities of feedback received from listeners. It highlights the personal journeys of the hosts, their professional roles, and the impact of their discussions on both Jewish and non-Jewish audiences. Takeaways Exploration of Jewish identity Impact of podcasting on personal growth Navigating negative feedback Importance of community connection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Really Jewish Podcast 05:08 The Motivation Behind the Podcast 10:07 Personal Reflections on Spirituality 14:59 Listener Feedback and Engagement 19:48 The Future of the Podcast 27:15 The Landscape of Online Feedback 31:34 The Role of the Podcast in Community 33:27 Personal Journeys and Professional Lives 39:01 Exploring Jewish Identity and Tradition 44:56 Rabbinical Roles and Responsibilities
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October 8 · 45 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E4 - After the Holy Days, takeaways
The conversation explores the emotional and spiritual transition from the Jewish High Holy Days to everyday life, considering how to carry the lessons learned during the festivals into daily routines. Rabbi Joel Levy discusses the significance of returning to normalcy after the intensity of the holidays, emphasizing the importance of integrating profound experiences into mundane life. The conversation explores the complexities of balancing personal responsibilities with spiritual practices during the Jewish holidays, particularly focusing on the themes of community, presence, and the emotional toll of these periods. It delves into the significance of silence, vulnerability, and in the week of Simchat Torah and October 7th, the importance of remembering those murdered on October 7th and in the tunnels of Gaza. Finally we reflect on the challenges of maintaining joy amidst life's mundane realities. Takeaways Transitioning from holidays is complex Integrating insights into daily life Balancing responsibilities and spirituality The importance of community and remembrance Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Achrei Hageem 02:57 The Complexity of Returning to Normalcy 06:11 Reflections on the High Holidays 08:55 Carrying Lessons into Everyday Life 11:53 The Significance of Transitioning in Torah 15:07 The Joy and Despair of Returning to the Beginning 24:28 Navigating the Mundane and Spiritual 25:53 The Exhaustion of Holiday Responsibilities 27:22 Moments of Connection in Prayer 28:21 The Discrepancy Between Ambition and Exhaustion 29:13 Different Stages of Life and Holiday Experiences 31:01 The Luxury of Immersion in Community 32:00 Exploring the Theme of Silence 34:35 Loneliness and the Human Experience 37:24 Vulnerability and Presence in Spirituality 43:22 Remembering the Victims of October 7th
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September 24 · 46 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E3 - Sukkot - Optimum Vulnerability
Rabbi Oliver and Rabbi Dardashti from Brooklyn, New York go head to head discussing the festival of Sukkot as 'Optimum Vulnerability’. We talk about Rabbi Dardashti's journey to becoming a rabbi and her inspiration. We examine her role in shaping the community at Kane Street, music at the centre of her Jewish life and the observance of Sukkot as a community leader. Taking a step back we look at the spiritual significance of Yom Kippur, ritual and the structure of Sukkot, exploring its physical and spiritual symbolism. Takeaways Diverse cultural influences shape Rabbi Dardashti's approach to Judaism Sukkot holds a special significance in the Jewish calendar Connection to the divine Physical and emotional experiences Living Judaism joyfully and proudly Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Michelle Dardashti 02:58 Journey to Becoming a Rabbi 03:58 Musical History of Kane Street Synagogue 05:59 Identity and Jewish Journey 10:52 Approach to Leading Services at Kane Street 18:57 Significance of Sukkot 21:19 The Spiritual Significance of Yom Kippur 21:46 The Ritual of Yom Kippur 22:29 The Holiness of Sukkot 27:02 The Practice of Faith Amidst the Elements 27:38 The Messy Beauty of Sukkot 34:21 The Joy and Humility of Sukkot 44:02 Living Judaism Joyfully and Proudly
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September 16 · 43 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E2 - ten days
The conversation explores the significance of the 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, delving into the themes of reflection, repentance, and self-improvement. It also touches on the challenges and practices of observing these days, as well as the impact of sharing Torah and spiritual experiences with a wider audience. Takeaways Teshuvah: The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time for reflection, repentance, and self-improvement. Challenges and Practices: Observing the 10 days involves prayer, contemplation, self-assessment, and immersion in spiritual experiences. Sharing Torah: Sharing Torah and spiritual experiences with a wider audience can be both meaningful and challenging. Chapters 00:00 The 10 Days of Teshuvah 03:19 Challenges of Observing the 10 Days 20:54 The Significance of the Shofar 40:15 Reflections on Sharing Torah
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September 9 · 36 min
REALLY JEWISH SE2:E1 - 'New Year resolutions, nedarim'
S2:E1, ‘New Year’s resolutions and vows’. Turning our attention to the Jewish new year, we talk about the topic of vows in the Jewish tradition, discussing the ambivalence towards vows in the Bible and the significance of making commitments. It delves into the impact of vows on personal and religious life, as well as the broader community, and examines the power dynamics and implications of annulment of vows. Takeaways Vows in Judaism carry a deep sense of commitment and agency, reflecting a balance between religious and secular perspectives. The Kol Nidre service holds significant cultural and communal importance, providing a sense of renewal and a fresh start for the year ahead. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Concept of Vows in Judaism 02:14 The Biblical Perspective on Vows 05:39 Personal Experiences and Reflections on Vows 24:09 The Significance of Kol Nidre 31:23 Power Dynamics of Vow Annulment
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September 3 · 38 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E27 - telling stories
The conversation begins with an introduction to Israel Story and the power of storytelling. It then delves into Mishy Harman's personal journey, the impact of podcasts, the magic of live storytelling, and the humanity in stories. The conversation concludes with a wish for the Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Takeaways Diverse storytelling Humanity in storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Journey 01:18 The Essence of Judaism and Religious Identity 03:08 The Power of Storytelling 08:05 Personal Stories and Identity 10:11 The Impact of Stories on Perception 13:31 The Role of Empathy in Storytelling 16:59 The Power of Personal Stories 19:27 The Impact of Personal Stories 21:22 The Intimacy of Storytelling 23:34 The Universality of Stories 28:15 The Influence of Personal Stories
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August 27 · 45 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E26 - Loving the land
The conversation delves into the Love of the Land Substack project (link in show notes), the complexity of the Israel-Palestine narrative, the historical and archaeological composition of the land, the tragedy and possibility of the encounter between Jews and Arabs, the impact of recent events on work and family, and the importance of historical knowledge in understanding the Jewish story. Takeaways Jewish history and connection to the land of Israel The importance of deepening historical knowledge and understanding the complexity of the Israel-Palestine narrative Chapters 00:00 The Jewish Relationship with Israel 03:36 Historical and Archaeological Aspects of the Land 28:02 Impact of COVID and War on Tourism 35:43 Personal Reflections of Being a Tour Guide in Israel
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August 20 · 35 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E25 - Between tradition & innovation, masoret & chidush
The conversation explores the intersection of tradition and innovation in Jewish life, reflecting on the balance between the two and the impact on personal and national identity. It delves into the complexities of maintaining tradition while embracing innovation, drawing from historical and contemporary examples. Takeaways Tradition and innovation are intertwined in Jewish life The balance between tradition and innovation is crucial for personal and national identity Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 02:59 The Significance of Recording in Person 04:11 Masoret and Chidush: Tradition and Innovation 05:42 The Impact of Tradition and Innovation in Jerusalem 10:27 The Role of Tradition and Innovation in Jewish Life 17:51 The Intersection of Tradition and Innovation in Jewish Culture 34:21 The Story of Rabbi Akiva and Moses
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August 13 · 34 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E24 - Blasphemy, crossing the line
Rabbi Joel discusses the concept of blasphemy, the role of the sacred, and the mystery of the name of God in the Jewish tradition. He emphasizes the importance of truth, the tension between fraudulence and truth, and the significance of the sacred in human life. The conversation delves into the concept of the hidden sacred, the reverence and avoidance of pronouncing the name of God, the interaction with divine and the edges of holiness, the dark side of sacredness, and the need for reframing religion in the 21st century. It explores the impossibility of blasphemy, the impact of religious hostility on society, and the significant challenge of understanding religion in a connected world. Takeaways Blasphemy and the unsayable The tension between fraudulence and truth in religious beliefs Hidden nature of the sacred Humor in religious context Chapters 00:00 Exploring Blasphemy and the Unspeakable 07:26 Pushing the Boundaries: Purpose and Truth 20:36 The Significance of the Sacred 29:42 The Mystery of God's Name 31:20 The Ultimate Sacred Postulate 32:01 The Reverent and Hidden Nature of the Sacred
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August 6 · 35 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E23 - Maalach Hamavet, the Angel of Death
The conversation with Rabbi Roni Tabick delves into the personal and professional journey of a rabbi, exploring the topic of Maalach Hamavet (the Angel of Death) and its significance in Jewish tradition. It also touches on the role of a rabbi at times of crisis, a rabbis capacity to comfort and offer support and something of the essence of Jewish life. Takeaways Maalach Hamavet: The discussion provides a deep exploration of the concept of Maalach Hamavet, shedding light on its symbolic and psychological significance in Jewish tradition. Rabbinic Role: The conversation highlights the role of rabbis in providing comfort, support, and guidance to individuals facing death and loss, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in pastoral care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Rony 01:35 Rabbinic Journey and Calling 02:54 Exploring Maalach Hamavet 08:15 The Experience of Death and Pastoral Care 10:31 Confronting Death and Spiritual Growth 26:40 The Role of Rabbis in Supporting Others 33:39 The Human Experience of Death
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July 30 · 38 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E22 - Insider/Outsider
The conversation begins with a reunion between old friends. The core of the discussion is about the meaning of home, and the immigrant experience in the United States. Vadim and Oliver discuss challenges of integration and the impact and blessing of immigration. The conversation is nostalgic and raises questions of generational shifts in diaspora communities, the preservation of Jewish literacy and culture, insider-outsider dynamics, contribution to community and passing down the immigrant experience. Takeaways Reconnecting with old friends brings back memories and stories from the past. The immigrant experience in the States is complex and has a significant impact on individuals and communities. Preservation of cultural heritage in diaspora communities Impact of immigrant stories on the broader Jewish community Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with an Old Friend 01:14 The Meaning of Home 02:00 Immigrant Experience in the States 03:13 The Impact of Immigration 06:12 Jewish Identity and Migration 09:47 The Kavkazi Community and Immigration 12:59 The Blessing of Immigration 21:09 Speaking Out Loud 22:06 The Heartbreak of Nostalgia 23:06 Generational Shifts and Diaspora Communities 25:01 Jewish Literacy and Cultural Preservation 26:37 Integration and Insider-Outsider Dynamics 29:14 Immigrant Experience and Community Contribution 33:26 Diversity and Inclusion in Jewish Communities
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July 22 · 41 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E21 - Heartbreak and home
The conversation with Rabbi Miriam Lorie delves into her journey as a female Orthodox Rabbi, her experiences in Jerusalem, and the significance of Tisha b’Av. The themes of heartbreak, hope, and responsibility are explored, along with the importance of interfaith dialogue and the inspiration drawn from modern Israeli music. Takeaways Jerusalem as a place of home and heartbreak The importance of hope and inspiration in challenging times Chapters 00:00 Welcoming Rabbi Miriam Lorie 01:05 Journey to Jerusalem and the Old City 04:35 Experiencing Heartbreak in Jerusalem 07:26 Tisha b’Av and the Destruction of the Temple 11:00 Jerusalem: Home and Heartbreak 17:22 Reflections on Tisha b’Av and Moving Forward 23:53 Hope and Inspiration for the Future 38:20 Jerusalem: The Center of the World 40:32 Inspiration from Modern Israeli Music
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July 16 · 32 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E20 - Judaism and creativity
The 20th episode of Really Jewish explores the theme of Judaism and creativity, delving into the tension between religious tradition and creative expression. The conversation touches on the core aspects of Jewish creativity, the role of uncertainty, and the need for urgency in the Jewish mission. It also addresses the dark forces that seek to suppress creativity within the Jewish community. Takeaways Judaism and creativity Religious creativity and its impact Chapters 00:00 The 20th Episode Celebration and Introduction to the Topic of Judaism and Creativity 02:33 Religion, Creativity, and the Current State of Affairs 05:34 Defining Creativity and Its Role in Jewish Tradition 08:41 The Subversive Nature of Creation and the Role of Religion 15:12 The Presence of God and the Absence of Creativity 26:20 The Inversion in Jewish Life and the Role of Uncertainty in Creation
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July 9 · 42 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E19 - A Judaism of spirit
This episode delves into the intersection of Judaism and spirituality, exploring the journey of becoming a rabbi, the spiritual essence of Judaism, finding spirituality in Jewish life, and the pursuit of spirituality amidst adversity. It highlights the significance of music and singing as a source of spiritual inspiration and emphasizes the gradual and intentional nature of the spiritual journey Takeaways Judaism and spirituality are deeply interconnected The practice of singing and music is a source of spiritual inspiration Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Becoming a Rabbi 06:15 The Connection Between Judaism and Spirituality 11:05 Finding Spirituality in Jewish Life 33:06 Spirituality in Times of Struggle
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July 2 · 31 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E18 - prohibition & fun
The conversation explores the role of pleasure and prohibition in the Jewish tradition, delving into the balance between joy and discipline. It also touches on the connection between religious life and secular life, as well as the impact of prohibitions on personal experiences. Takeaways Pleasure and Prohibition in Jewish Tradition Balancing Pleasure and Prohibition The Role of Prohibition in Secular and Religious Life Chapters 00:00 The Significance of Pleasure in Jewish Tradition 10:20 Balancing Pleasure and Prohibition 23:23 Rebbe Nachman's Teaching on Joy and Depression 33:29 The Role of Prohibition in Secular and Religious Life
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June 25 · 35 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E17 - outreach and mission in Christianity and Judaism
The conversation delves into the generations of relationship between Christianity and Judaism, exploring why we as faith leaders are ‘called’ to our work. We discuss differences in our faith perspectives, and the significance of ‘doing’ in Jewish life. It also discusses belief and obedience in religion, the focus on belief in God and God's love in Christianity. The conversation touches on Christian missionary work and outreach, Christian-Jewish relations, religious tolerance, and promoting confidence and dialogue. The main takeaway is embracing bravery and honesty in religious conversations. Takeaways Interfaith Dialogue Religious Tolerance Chapters 00:00 Building a Relationship 09:09 Belief and Obedience 14:10 Christian Missionary Work 19:37 Christian Outreach and Jewish Community 25:00 Cross Desecration and Religious Friction 30:38 Religious Tolerance and Mutual Respect
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June 18 · 39 min
REALLY JEWISH SE1:E16 - Police, nice job for a Jewish boy
The conversation delves into the unique role of the UK’ most senior Jewish police officer and the challenges faced by the Jewish community in the context of policing and social unrest. It explores the impact of social media and online hate, and concludes with a message to the Jewish community and a personal reflection on the role of Judaism in shaping the Ben Russell’s day-to-day life. REALLY JEWISH SE1:E16 Takeaways The role of a senior Jewish police officer is unique and comes with its own set of challenges. The impact of social media and online hate on the Jewish community is significant and requires attention. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reunion 05:09 The Jewish Community and Policing 15:01 Challenges Faced by the Jewish Community 28:17 The Impact of Social Media and Online Hate 35:24 Message to the Jewish Community and Personal Reflection
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