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

How To Restore Balance, Focus and Meaning to Your Life In this week’s Parsha, Pinchas is given the bris shalom after defending the honor of Hashem. Four hundred years ago, The Seforno explained that as a result of this gift, Pinchas was granted longevity. By living ‘at peace with himself’ Pinchas was able to live a longer, healthier life. Would you like to live more at peace with yourself? Be less stressed, more grounded? It’s hard to know where to start. How can I restore an equilibrium between my inner conflicts and desires? How can I achieve a healthy work-life balance, when I feel pulled in so many conflicting directions? And how can I stop myself feeling so frazzled, even when I know it damages my immune system and makes me miserable and tired? As always, the lessons of the Parsha offer us all a startling perspective. Want to hear more on how you can make lasting changes to improve your life, get healthy and enjoy your time in this world? This Shmuz is for you.  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 separates ordinary people from those who achieve greatness? In this inspiring class, Rabbi Shafier explores the power of human potential through unforgettable stories of determination, courage, and personal growth. Drawing from Torah wisdom, history, and real-life examples, this lecture challenges you to aim higher, overcome limitations, and discover what you are truly capable of becoming. 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 so many people achieve success yet still feel empty inside? In this thought-provoking class, Rabbi Shafier explores the connection between inner peace, physical health, and genuine happiness, revealing why external success alone can never satisfy the soul. Blending Torah wisdom with fascinating modern research, this lecture offers a powerful new perspective on what it truly means to live a fulfilled and meaningful 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

You know that your year is decreed on Rosh Hashanah. Every aspect of your life is carefully designed by your Creator. You also know that you’re commanded to do your hishtadlus and daven that Hashem rewards your efforts. But how much hishtadlus is too much? How am I meant to tell when Hashem’s answer is ‘no’ or whether He wants me to keep up with the effort and tefillos that I’m investing in? In this incredibly practical Shmuz, I’ll be addressing your common bitachon dilemmas. Make sure to join me on Thursday to learn how to find that elusive balance between genuine hishtadlus and trusting in Hashem.  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