Épisodes

  • The Essence of Chanukah and the Power of Gratitude
    Dec 17 2025

    Listen in as we unravel the beautiful traditions of Chanukah and their significance in our bond with Hashem. Our conversation starts with the two main blessings of Chanukah, "Lahadlik Ner Shel Chanukah" and "She'asa Nisim La'avosaynu", highlighting their meaning and importance. As we light the menorah, we reflect on our commitment to God's commandments, and the recognition of the miracles He performs in our lives daily. We further discuss the miracle of fire, encouraging our listeners to contemplate their blessings and express their gratitude to Hashem.

    In the second part of our discussion, we examine the role of gratitude in our daily prayers, especially during Chanukah. Discover how expressing gratitude for the blessings and miracles in our lives can lead to a profound sense of happiness. We underline the significance of appreciating every aspect of our lives and the power of expressing gratitude in attracting more blessings. As we conclude, we leave our listeners with a blessing for happiness and gratitude, reminding everyone that the more we are grateful, the more blessings we will receive.

    This episode (#254) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Eric Blacher and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes


    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com


    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 8, 2023

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    9 min
  • Unboxing: Celebrating X-mas with a Chanukah Bush?
    Dec 16 2025

    In this Episode (#12) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the question of "Celebrating X-mas with a Chanukah Bush" and is there anything really wrong with intermarrying between Jews and non-Jews? Is it not ok for us to agree to just "raise them Jewish"?!


    This Episode (#18) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast is dedicated in honor of Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg

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    Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas

    To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org

    Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as the Rabbi at The Heimish Shul in Houston, Texas and has been delivering the Daf Yomi (Daily Folio of Talmud) since 2003. Rabbi Nagel is the Head of the Court for Jewish Divorce and actively serves as a member of the Houston Beis Din.

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Yaakov Nagel: https://linktr.ee/RabbiNagel

    • Daf Yomi Podcast - https://linktr.ee/DafYomiPodcast
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism


    Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe serves as the Executive Director of TORCH since 2005.

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B on July 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on July 28, 2023

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    30 min
  • Deciphering Divine Timing and Miracles: Lessons from Yosef's Life (Parsha In-Focus: Mikeitz) 5784
    Dec 16 2025

    Join us as we explore the profound lessons from the Parsha of Mikeitz and the story of Yosef in Egypt in our Parsha Review Podcast. This compelling chapter will urge you to read and embrace the divine messages in the Torah. We dissect Yosef's acceptance of his extended prison time, viewing it as part of his life's mission, an example of Hashem's divine plan. Listen closely as we scrutinize the verses where Pharaoh calls for Yosef, and the swift transition from prisoner to standing before Pharaoh. We share the profound belief that Hashem has complete control over the timing of events in our lives, and that often, we only recognize the miracles years later. You're encouraged to reflect on your own life experiences and see how events that initially appeared negative, turned out to be blessings in disguise.

    We then dive into the importance of constantly acknowledging and expressing gratitude for the good that Hashem brings into our lives. We discuss our desire to understand Hashem's miracles deeper and believe that everything He does is for the good. We highlight Hashem's orchestration and emphasize recognizing His hand in everything, drawing from this week's Parsha as an example. We end the chapter with a blessing for a meaningful Shabbos and the ability to always recognize Hashem's goodness in our lives. Tune in to this enlightening episode and deepen your understanding of Hashem's miracles and His divine timing.

    This episode (Ep 6.10) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mikeitz is dedicated in Honor of our dear friend Moshe Butler & our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

    • Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
      https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing


    ****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes


    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com


    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 14, 2023

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    18 min
  • Guided Tour to Chanukah: Miracles, Traditions, and Faith
    Dec 16 2025

    Imagine the aroma of your favorite coffee warming your senses, the subtle complexity of flavors as you take that first sip. Now consider this - isn't it miraculous how those tiny beans can hold such a rich bouquet of taste? That's just one of the everyday miracles we explore in our Chanukah special, where we delve into the meaningful symbolism of oil, the significance of the number eight in Judaism and the extraordinary within the ordinary.

    Have you ever faced a situation where your faith was tested? We share personal experiences of antisemitism, and how these events shaped our understanding of the importance of proudly displaying our Judaism. We discuss the responsibility of the Jewish people to be a light unto the nations, not just in terms of righteousness but as a beacon of resilience, perseverance, and hope.

    Every choice we make has an impact, and every action can tip the balance of our lives. Our episode reflects on these concepts, highlighting the profound wisdom within Judaism and how it guides our decision-making. We explore Chanukah as a time to reaffirm our faith and strengthen our connection with God. As the glow of the Menorah lights up this festive season, let's remember to express our gratitude for life's miracles and spread light in our own unique ways. Join us for an uplifting Chanukah celebration!

    This episode (#11) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in honor of our dear friends and study partners for almost two decades, Tom & Bobbi Asarch! May Hashem continue to bless you and protect you.

    ****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes


    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com


    Recorded at Cong. Beth Yeshurun to a live audience on December 22, 2019, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 7, 2023

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    1 h et 3 min
  • 1.10 Parshas Mikeitz Review: Hashem's Miracles and Divine Timing
    Dec 15 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.10) on Mikeitz by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

    *****
    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism
    • Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview
    • Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 22, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 22, 2022

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    27 min
  • Becoming a Living Menorah: Unlocking the Deep Meaning of Chanukah
    Dec 15 2025

    What if we could transform our Chanukah celebration into a profound personal journey, where each candle lit sparks an inner awakening? Join us as we explore how the essence of Chanukah goes beyond the menorah, igniting our souls to radiate light and wisdom into the world. In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, we delve into the true spirit of the festival, focusing on three potent tools to deepen our connection. Our journey begins with an exploration of sacred texts like the Talmud, revealing Chanukah's profound messages of dispersing darkness and celebrating Jewish endurance. By preparing and setting intentions, we aim to elevate our spiritual experiences to new heights, transforming the holiday into a time of personal growth and enlightenment.


    Through insightful discussions, we highlight the power of preparation and the role of intention in meaningful spiritual practice. By likening the preparation for Chanukah to military readiness, we underscore the importance of effort and mindfulness in our spiritual pursuits. As each candle is lit, we reflect on our aspirations for spiritual fulfillment and the hope for the menorah's light to shine brightly in the temple once more. Join us as we share blessings, heartfelt prayers, and a wish for this Chanukah to illuminate our inner worlds, urging us closer to collective and personal enlightenment. Embrace this journey with us and kindle your own light, as we support the spread of Torah learning across the globe.

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    Recorded in TORCH Meyerland - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on December 16, 2024.
    Released as Podcast on December 17, 2024.
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    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
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    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
    NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes
    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
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    EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
    _____________
    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
    _____________
    #Chanukah, #Menorah, #Hanukkah, #JewishInspiration, #Ritual, #Talmud, #SpiritualConnection, #Preparation, #TorahLearning, #Blessings, #MeaningfulExperience, #InnerLight, #JewishSurvival, #Victory, #MilitaryPreparation, #SpiritualGrowth, #MaterialPursuits, #HumanDesire, #Aspirations, #CandleLighting, #Temple, #Prayer, #TorahLearning, #GlobalSpread

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    21 min
  • Everyday Judaism: The Laws of Chanukah (Siman 139)
    Dec 14 2025

    The Living Jewishly Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way.

    In this Living Jewishly Podcast BONUS episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the laws of Chanukah in all its details; The lighting of the Menorah, The oil, Wicks, Placement, The Blessings and Prayers and so much more.

    Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

    *****
    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism
    • Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview
    • Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this episode to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 15, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 15, 2022

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    40 min
  • Amplify Your Chanukah - Unraveling the Spiritual Energy and Significance of Lighting the Menorah
    Dec 14 2025

    Are you prepared to unearth the profound spiritual energy that the Festival of Lights, Chanukah, brings forth? Join us, as we engage in a deeper understanding of each holiday and the significance of mitzvahs, which are not simply religious rituals, rather, they are the building blocks of our relationship with God. As we prepare our hearts to light the Menorah during the special days of Chanukah, we'll aim to become worthy vessels receiving divine light.

    This journey will take us into the heart of each mitzvah, where we'll discover an unexplored inner light and power. We'll tease out the essence of Chanukah and why it demands more than a passing familiarity, but rather a dedication and commitment akin to nurturing a deep and loving marriage. Expounding on our sages' teachings, we will strive to perform one mitzvah in its absolute perfection. Finally, we delve into why the 25th word in the Torah, light, makes Chanukah such a powerful day. Equipped with these insights, may we all become radiant vessels of divine light for the world this Chanukah.

    This episode (#247) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Bill & Lili Stern and our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

    ****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes


    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com


    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 14, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 15, 2023

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    31 min