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Guiding Generations

Guiding Generations

Rabbi Mordechai Shifman

"Guiding Generations" with Rabbi Mordechai Shifman merges timeless Torah wisdom with contemporary parenting insights. Each episode draws from the weekly Torah portion, offering practical advice and spiritual guidance to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children with integrity, respect, and compassion. Join Rabbi Shifman as he connects ancient teachings to the realities of modern family life, empowering parents to cultivate a nurturing and value-driven home environment.
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Top 10 Guiding Generations Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Guiding Generations episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Guiding Generations for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Guiding Generations episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

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 wisdom, Rabbi Shifman reveals how the Mishkan serves as a blueprint for the Jewish home, where values are instilled, and spirituality thrives. He discusses the unique role of parents—especially mothers—in shaping the home as a place where Hashem’s presence dwells, and how the responsibility of leadership and moral guidance begins within the family.

Tune in as we uncover the powerful messages hidden in the verses of Terumah and learn how to create a home where our children grow into strong, responsible, and spiritually connected individuals.

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Guiding Generations - Strength in Identity – Lessons from Parshas Vayakhel
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03/17/25 • 35 min

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 preserving Jewish continuity in Mitzrayim.

What can these mirrors teach us about modern parenting and marriage? How do we navigate evolving societal roles while maintaining harmony in our relationships? With a blend of Torah insight, history, and practical wisdom, Rabbi Shifman delves into the delicate balance of respect, affirmation, and the strength of building up one another in marriage and family life.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how understanding our roles—both in Torah and in today’s world—can create stronger homes and raise confident, connected children.

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Guiding Generations - Parenting and Leadership: Parshas Vayigash
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12/29/24 • 24 min

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 created jealousy among his sons, why Yosef’s actions seemingly mirrored these mistakes, and how these lessons illuminate the balance between leadership and unity.

Rabbi Shifman also ties in the significance of Asara B’Teves, offering a profound understanding of fasting as a tool for cultivating empathy and repairing relationships. Gain practical insights and inspiration for nurturing meaningful connections and leading with sensitivity in all aspects of life.

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Guiding Generations - Vayishlach: Parenting Lessons from Yaakov
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12/09/24 • 22 min

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 of balancing life’s demands with the eternal responsibility of raising the next generation. Learn how Yaakov’s choices emphasize placing family above material pursuits and creating a nurturing environment for lasting values. A must-listen for parents seeking timeless wisdom to guide their journey.

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Guiding Generations - Torah Parenting Lessons from Avraham
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11/11/24 • 26 min

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 reflect the dual struggles parents face—navigating desires and managing power dynamics. Drawing from traditional commentaries and the concept of "Ma'aseh Avos Siman L'banim," he provides practical wisdom for guiding children through life’s complexities, showing how the trials of our ancestors map out spiritual and emotional strategies for modern parenting.

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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 family culture that highlights the beauty of Jewish life and values. He discusses the impact of presenting Judaism as a positive, inviting experience rather than a set of restrictions, teaching parents how to foster an environment that inspires children to embrace their heritage wholeheartedly.

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Guiding Generations - Parsha Ki Teitzei: Navigating Family Dynamics
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09/11/24 • 26 min

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 struggles with parenting, conflict resolution, and self-transformation. This discussion provides practical insights into leveraging the wisdom of the Torah to enhance our personal lives and family interactions, fostering a deeper understanding of redemption and renewal as we enter the New Year. Join us for a journey through the weekly Parsha that promises to enrich our understanding and inspire change.

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Guiding Generations - Navigating Conflict: Lessons from Parsha Korach
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07/03/24 • 27 min

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 conflicts, when rooted in genuine values and communal benefit, can lead to constructive outcomes, unlike the divisive machlokas led by Korach. This discussion provides valuable perspectives on handling disagreements in our communities and families, emphasizing the importance of intention and respect in every debate.

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Guiding Generations - Sefer Bamidbar and Shavuos: Heritage & Education
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06/05/24 • 22 min

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 prepare for Shavuot, celebrating the giving of the Torah, explore how the concept of lineage and the acceptance of the Torah can inspire us to instill a sense of heritage and responsibility in our children, preparing them to carry forward our traditions and values.

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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. Through the symbolism of Mordechai, the ketoret (incense offering), and the concept of teshuva, Rabbi Shifman illustrates how parents can foster resilience, patience, and understanding in their children—recognizing that every child has the potential for greatness, no matter their origins. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on raising children with faith, perspective, and unwavering support.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Guiding Generations have?

Guiding Generations currently has 36 episodes available.

What topics does Guiding Generations cover?

The podcast is about Jewish, Podcasts, Self-Improvement and Education.

What is the most popular episode on Guiding Generations?

The episode title 'Gratitude, Accountability, and the Legacy of Rav Meir Shapiro: Parenting Lessons from Parshat Vayechi' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Guiding Generations?

The average episode length on Guiding Generations is 24 minutes.

How often are episodes of Guiding Generations released?

Episodes of Guiding Generations are typically released every 6 days, 23 hours.

When was the first episode of Guiding Generations?

The first episode of Guiding Generations was released on May 14, 2024.

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