The Shmuz

What if you truly understood how much you matter? The Torah gives us a picture of the human being that is far greater than most of us imagine, with every mitzvah, every choice, and even every thought having an impact far beyond what we can see. In this powerful shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores what it really means to be created in the image of Hashem, why understanding your own greatness is essential for growth, and how a stronger sense of who you are can transform the way you approach your life, your choices, and your potential. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Have you ever wondered why you can feel deeply inspired one moment, only to struggle with the exact opposite feeling a short time later? That contradiction is built into the human being, and understanding it can change the way you see yourself, your struggles, and even the mitzvahs you perform. In this fascinating shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the two powerful forces within you, why Hashem created you with this constant inner battle, and how the choices you make every day gradually shape the person you become. Discover why this struggle is not getting in the way of your growth, but is at the very heart of what life is all about. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

You want to be confident...but not arrogant. You want to work on your personal development, but cheshbon hanefesh is demoralizing. You know Hashem gave you talents and abilities- but are you ‘allowed’ to feel proud of your achievements? There are many contradictions when it comes to working on yourself, your middos and your self esteem. This Shmuz will help you discover the golden middle way within yourself. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Every smart young couple starts their marriage with the same dreams, goals and ideals. They’re one hundred percent sure that they will live in married bliss forever. Until they aren’t. Until the bickering, fighting and loneliness become second nature and they are left wondering where they went wrong. Unfortunately, making a happy marriage is not intuitive, and most couples make the same fatal errors when trying to build their Torah home. They’re not aware that these minor infractions are ruining the most precious relationship of their life. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Finding Happiness in a World That Always Wants More We're surrounded by messages telling us we need more. A bigger house, a newer car, nicer clothes, the latest gadget. But do these things really make us happier? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores why we always seem to want what we don't have, and why chasing more often leaves us feeling less satisfied. Drawing on timeless Torah wisdom, he reveals a powerful mindset that can free us from constant comparison, help us appreciate what Hashem has already given us, and find genuine happiness with the life we have. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Decision Making Made Easy If you're looking for a shmuz on how to banish self-doubt and regret, we have one based around this week's parsha that would be just perfect for you. Alternatively entitled 'Who Put That Thought in Your Head?!' it will give you Rabbi Shafier's three-step plan on how to find genuine self-contentment. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

What does true greatness look like? In this inspiring class, Rabbi Shafier explores the extraordinary kindness of Abraham, known as Avraham Avinu, who, despite great pain and exhaustion, devoted himself completely to caring for others. Through the Torah’s powerful portrayal of Avraham’s generosity and selflessness, this lecture reveals a profound lesson about what it means to live a meaningful life and to strive to become more G-dlike. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why do good people end up in bitter arguments with those they love most? And why does every side feel completely convinced they're right? In this powerful Tisha B'Av shmuz, Rabbi Shafier uncovers the surprising meaning of sinas chinam , revealing how the stories we tell ourselves can destroy relationships, families, and even a nation. Through timeless Torah wisdom, fascinating historical examples, and practical insights, he shows how changing the way you interpret other people's actions can transform your most precious relationships...and perhaps bring us one step closer to rebuilding the Beis Hamikdash. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why can you feel inspired one moment and completely unmotivated the next? Why do you genuinely want to do the right thing, yet still find yourself pulled in the opposite direction? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the Torah's fascinating understanding of human nature and reveals why that inner struggle isn't a flaw, but the very reason we were created. Discover how every choice shapes who you become, why Torah and mitzvos have the power to transform you from within, and how understanding the battle inside yourself can change the way you approach growth, challenges, and life itself. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why do people so often convince themselves that wrong is right? In this eye-opening class, Rabbi Shafier explores the human ability to justify almost any action and the inner struggle between truth, desire, and conscience. Drawing on psychology, history, and Torah wisdom, this lecture reveals why moral clarity does not come naturally — and why the Torah is essential as a guide for living with honesty, purpose, and true integrity. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

The Three Rules of Criticism We all know criticism rarely works, yet it's one of the easiest habits to fall into. In this eye-opening shmuz, Rabbi Shafier reveals why even well-intentioned criticism so often pushes people away instead of inspiring change. Through powerful Torah sources, real-life examples, and practical guidance for marriage, parenting, and everyday relationships, you'll discover a more effective approach to helping others grow, one that strengthens relationships instead of damaging them. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

What would change if you truly felt that G-d was with you every moment of your life? In this powerful class, Rabbi Shafier explores the final teachings of Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai and the profound Jewish understanding of awe, prayer, and our relationship with G-d. Combining Torah wisdom with a breathtaking look at the vastness of the universe, this lecture offers a moving perspective on how personal and meaningful prayer can become when we recognize Who we are really speaking to. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

It's easy to believe in Hashem in theory. Living with the awareness that He is with you every moment is something else entirely. In this powerful Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores the difference between knowing about Hashem and truly feeling His presence. Discover why tefillah can sometimes feel routine, what real yiras Shamayim looks like, and a few simple, practical changes that can completely transform the way you daven and connect with your Creator. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

What if the biggest obstacle to your growth isn't your circumstances, but the stories you tell yourself? In this eye-opening Shmuz, Rabbi Shafier reveals how your mind can blur reality, distort your priorities, and subtly lead you away from your values. Through a remarkable Gemara, powerful real-life examples, and practical tools you can start using today, he shows how to break through self-deception, see life with greater clarity, and make choices you'll be proud of for years to come. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why did Hashem put us in this world? And how would your life change if you truly understood the answer? In this thought-provoking shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores one of life's biggest questions, revealing how every person is given a unique mission, carefully chosen challenges, and the exact circumstances they need to reach their potential. Through powerful stories and timeless Torah wisdom, he offers a perspective that can transform the way you view success, suffering, purpose, and every decision you make. Once you see life through this lens, you'll never look at it the same way again. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why did Hashem create human beings with desires, struggles, and limitations instead of giving us the instincts and abilities of animals? In this fascinating class, Rabbi Shafier explores the difference between pleasure and purpose, revealing how many of life’s frustrations are actually part of a deeper design for growth and fulfillment. Blending Torah insight with memorable examples and sharp observations about modern life, this lecture offers a powerful perspective on happiness, self-control, and what it truly means to live according to your purpose. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Have you ever heard the three rules of criticism? Don’t do it Don’t do it Don’t do it Ok, everyone knows how it feels to be criticized. Everyone agrees that it’s damaging to our most precious relationships. Some people have lived under the shadow of criticism their whole life, and have the arduous task of trying to rebuild their self-esteem and confidence. So if it’s so incredibly obvious as to why we shouldn’t do it- why do we? In this week’s Shmuz Live, I’ll be deconstructing the science behind the scorn, and give some real-life, practical advice on how to overcome this destructive habit. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Why do we mourn the Beis Hamikdash... if we don't even feel what's missing? In this thought-provoking Tisha B'Av shmuz, Rabbi Shafier explores a question that will turn your perspective upside down. What if the anxiety, confusion, and emptiness so many people experience today aren't simply part of modern life...but symptoms of a world that is fundamentally broken? Discover why Chazal cried for the Churban, why we struggle to, and how understanding what you've truly lost can change the way you view yourself, your purpose, and your longing for the Geulah. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

What does genuine bitachon really mean? Is it believing that everything will work out the way we want? Drawing on the righteous women who left Egypt carrying tambourines in anticipation of future miracles, Rabbi Shafier explores the true meaning of trust in Hashem. This uplifting Shmuz offers a powerful new framework for understanding Hashem's love and finding genuine peace, no matter what life brings. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

Have you ever wondered why, if Hashem loves you so much, you don't always feel it? This powerful Shiva Asar B'Tammuz shmuz explores a question that touches every Jew. Through the remarkable story of Bilam and his donkey, Rabbi Shafier uncovers a profound insight into Hashem's relationship with you, challenging many of the assumptions you may carry about His love, patience, and expectations. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation of what it truly means to be part of Hashem's chosen people, and why that understanding can transform the way you see both your struggles and your potential. This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate