Episodes

  • Rabbi David-Seth Kirshner | 03-22-26

    Rabbi David-Seth Kirshner | 03-22-26
    Mar 22 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard discussing the profound layers of Passover with guest Rabbi David Seth Kirshner. The conversation explores the holiday’s inherent dual identity, balancing the joy of liberation with a sober reflection on historical and modern oppression. Kirshner emphasizes that Judaism is a religion of questions, where the ritual of inviting children to inquire at the Seder table is more important than providing absolute answers. The participants also reflect on Kirshner's recent book, which chronicles the emotional and theological struggle following the October 7th attacks, ultimately framing faith as a resilient pursuit of hope and unity amidst brokenness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-22-26

    The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-22-26
    Mar 22 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, Reverend A.R. Bernard, and guest Rabbi David Seth Kirshner regarding the multidimensional nature of Passover. The conversation transitions from the holiday’s inherent "identity crisis"—balancing the bitterness of historical slavery with the sweetness of liberation—to the modern necessity of maintaining hope amidst contemporary tragedy. The participants emphasize that Judaism is a religion of inquiry, where the act of asking questions and embracing life's "broken pieces" is more vital than providing absolute answers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    49 mins
  • Larry Grogan | 03-15-26

    Larry Grogan | 03-15-26
    Mar 15 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard, welcome guest Larry Grogan, who shares his mission to run 100 marathons in 100 days to inspire those living with Parkinson’s disease. Despite his diagnosis, Groen champions the philosophy that "movement is medicine," arguing that physical activity acts as a vital tool for neuroplasticity and maintaining a high quality of life. The conversation shifts from the clinical benefits of exercise to a deeper spiritual discussion on defying passive resignation and finding meaning through adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    13 mins
  • The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-15-26

    The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-15-26
    Mar 15 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard engage in a profound dialogue regarding the inner life and the moral responsibilities of leadership within a fractured society. The program begins by honoring the legacy of the late journalist Ernie Anastos, framing him as a symbol of human decency who prioritized his authentic identity over social acceptance. This discussion on personal integrity transitions into a somber reflection on rising violence and antisemitism, where the hosts argue that modern culture is suffering from a cauterization of conscience that must be combated through interfaith unity and communal support. The episode concludes with an inspiring interview featuring Larry Grogan, who is battling Parkinson’s disease by attempting one hundred marathons in one hundred days. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    48 mins
  • The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-08-26

    The Rev & The Rabbi | 03-08-26
    Mar 8 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard discuss the pressing need for legislative protection of religious institutions amid a modern decline in public reverence. Featuring guest Hindi Pukpko from the UJA-Federation, the conversation centers on a proposed New York City bill designed to establish buffer zones around houses of worship and schools to prevent the intimidation of congregants by aggressive protesters. The participants argue that while the right to protest is a sacred American value, it should not supersede the fundamental right to feel safe within one’s spiritual sanctuary or educational environment. Beyond policy, the hosts reflect on the interfaith solidarity required to combat rising social vitriol and the vital role of family and moral education in restoring a lost sense of communal respect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    47 mins
  • Hindy Poupko | 03-08-26

    Hindy Poupko | 03-08-26
    Mar 8 2026
    Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard interview Hindy Poupko regarding a New York City Council bill designed to protect houses of worship and schools from targeted harassment. The discussion emphasizes that while the right to protest is a fundamental American liberty, it should not cross into the intimidation of families and children at their places of sanctuary. Poupko highlights the broad interfaith coalition supporting the legislation, noting that religious leaders of diverse backgrounds are united in their desire to maintain safe boundaries for their congregants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • The Rev & The Rabbi Special | 03-01-26

    The Rev & The Rabbi Special | 03-01-26
    Mar 1 2026
    Today's special episode captures a high-stakes dialogue concerning international security, religious duty, and the historical parallels of modern conflict. The conversation centers on a major retaliatory strike from Iran and the subsequent threats to civilian life in Israel, while also exploring the moral obligations of leadership and community protection during difficult times. Through a mix of political analysis and spiritual reflection, the participants discuss the necessity of unity between different faiths and nations to combat global hatred and terror. The text also includes a significant segment featuring a statement from Bill Clinton regarding the Epstein files, which the hosts use to spark a debate on political accountability and the ethics of past American administrations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • The Rev & The Rabbi | 02-22-26

    The Rev & The Rabbi | 02-22-26
    Feb 22 2026
    Reverend A.R. Bernard and Rabbi Joseph Potasnik host New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to explore the intersection of spiritual faith and public service. The dialogue highlights how the traditions of Lent, Ramadan, and Yahrzeit serve as catalysts for moral reflection and a sense of communal responsibility, framing religion as a "North Star" for navigating social challenges. DiNapoli details his approach to fiscal oversight and the management of pension funds, emphasizing that his commitment to integrity and transparency is rooted in a religious rejection of pessimism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Show more Show less
    46 mins