The Rest is Commentary: Podcast

021: When the World Doesn't Feel Safe: A Conversation with Rabbanit Alissa Thomas-Newborn

In this deeply moving and insightful episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep welcomes Rabbanit Alissa Thomas-Newborn—spiritual leader, hospital chaplain, interfaith activist, and author—for a conversation that bridges trauma, creativity, parenthood, and the search for shared humanity. Alissa, who serves as a Rabbanit at Netivot Shalom in Teaneck, NJ and works as a hospital chaplain, is known for her empathetic leadership and commitment to guiding people through the most intimate and challenging moments of their lives.
Alissa and Shep traverse the terrain of creativity as a sacred act, exploring how Torah, music, and pain come together to form new vessels for meaning. Alissa reflects on how Shep’s song, “The Golden Rule,” resonated with the unrelenting emotional fatigue of this moment in Jewish history, particularly in the wake of October 7th.
The conversation also confronts the fragility of civic dialogue and the dangers of dehumanization—whether at a City Council meeting or in national political discourse. Alissa offers insight from her interfaith work, highlighting the importance of discerning when to engage in difficult conversations and when silence is self-preservation.
Her experience of trauma as a mother and Jewish leader in the post–October 7th world underscores the episode’s central theme: how do we rebuild trust, purpose, and life when our foundations have been shaken?
Through it all, Alissa shares her personal journey of resilience, including the birth of her long-awaited son and the simultaneous release of her book—a project steeped in love, halacha, and the daily sacredness of parenting. This episode is both a balm and a challenge: to soften our hearts, name our pain, and respond to darkness with life-affirming action.
We pushed up production of this episode after the "Run for Their Lives" marchers in Boulder, County were attacked.  We dedicate this episode tot heir healing and to those who continue to stand up for the Jewish and Israeli communities worldwide.

020: From Awareness to Action: A Conversation with Rabbi Joe Black

Step into an unforgettable episode of “The Rest is Commentary” as host Shep Rosenman welcomes the extraordinary Rabbi Joe Black for a conversation brimming with inspiration, music, and heartfelt reflection. In this special installment, we celebrate not only Joe’s remarkable journey as a rabbi, musician, and songwriter, but also his upcoming retirement from his beloved synagogue in Denver, Temple Emanuel—a milestone that marks the end of an era and the beginning of new creative adventures.
We have the special treat of hearing some of Joe's songs played off the cuff.  Discover how Joe’s passion for music and spirituality intertwines, as he shares moving stories about encountering the divine through relationships, song, and the arts. Inspired by the evocative song “Endless,” itself a tribute to Psalm 42, Joe and Shep explore the three transformative stages of spirituality: awareness, appreciation, and action.
Listen in as Joe reveals the joys and challenges of balancing his dual callings as a spiritual leader and an artist, offering candid insights into the creative process, the power of faith, and the beauty of embracing change. This episode is a vibrant testament to the magic that happens when intellect and creativity unite, and how the bonds of community, art, and spirituality can illuminate every stage of life’s journey.

019: Urgency of Empathy: A Conversation with Naomi Less in memory of Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lishinsky

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, acclaimed singer,  composer, ritual leader, and rocker, Naomi Less joins the conversation to unravel the deep complexities of Jewish identity and the pursuit of safety in this increasingly turbulent world. As a self-described “Lefty Zionist,” Naomi shares her personal journey—one shaped by resilience, hope, and, more recently, the rising tide of anti-Semitism.
Using the lens of Shep's evocative song “Until When,” inspired by Psalm 13, Naomi reveals how music becomes both a sanctuary and a call to action.
Listeners are invited into this candid exploration of what it means to navigate difficult conversations, foster critical thinking, and lean into rituals that nurture and sustain community bonds.
The episode pays heartfelt tribute to Sarah Lynn Milgram and Yaron Lishinsky, may their memories be a blessing.  Their murders underscore the urgent need for peace, empathy, and understanding in these challenging times.

018: The Art of Repair: A Conversation with Rachell Koegel

In this captivating episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep sits down with his cousin, Rachell Koegel—a passionate writer and educator from Oceanside, New York—for a conversation that’s as moving as it is insightful. Together, they unravel the powerful influence of role models and the lifelong journey of unlearning the patterns we pick up in childhood. Rachell opens up about her experiences in the classroom and at home, sharing stories that highlight the importance of being truly present and the courage it takes to break old cycles.
Shep and Rachel dive deep into the themes of accountability, the shadow cast by fear, and the delicate dance of breaking and repairing relationships—whether with family, faith, or oneself. The episode is dedicated to Rachell’s late mother, Selma Nadboy (nee Rosenman), whose memory adds an emotional resonance to their reflections.
With the song, “You Are Here,” inspired by Psalm 9, as their backdrop, Shep and Rachell invite listeners on a journey through identity, spirituality, and personal growth. It’s an episode that promises to leave you thinking, feeling, and maybe even seeing your own story in a new light.

017: Film, Faith and the Fight for Peace: A Conversation with Rabbi Raphael Shore

Step into a profound and inspiring dialogue with Raphael Shore, a distinguished rabbi, educator, and visionary film producer. Together, we explore the powerful themes of unity, hope, and spirituality amidst the ongoing turmoil in Israel.
Experience Rabbi Shore’s remarkable journey of finding divine connection even in the darkest moments, and uncover the transformative power of empathy, education, and faith in the pursuit of peace. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on the dangers of brainwashing and propaganda, while celebrating the enduring strength and resilience of the Jewish People.
Join Rabbi Shore and host Shep Rosenman as they navigate the intricate realities of life in a war zone, embracing accountability on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and emphasizing the vital importance of hearing diverse narratives. Discover the inspiring role of film and Rabbi Shore’s mission to educate about the threats posed by Islamist extremism.  All inspired by the song, "She is Building," itself inspired by Psalm 84. 
Don’t miss this episode of “The Rest Is Commentary” - a moving exploration of how to find joy in the present, nurture optimism, and foster understanding and connection in times of adversity.

016 Brothers, Bonds, Beliefs: A Conversation with Zvi Howard Rosenman, my brother

✨ Ready for a conversation that will move your soul? ✨🎙️
On this powerful episode of *The Rest is Commentary*, Shep Rosenman sits down with his brother - legendary film and TV producer Zvi Howard Rosenman - for a raw, unfiltered journey through the music, memories, and mysteries that shape our lives.
💔 From the wild highs of creativity to the depths of loss, Shep and Zvi reveal how music becomes a lifeline-connecting us, healing us, and helping us find meaning in the chaos. They open up about family, identity, and the courage to be authentic, all while honoring the enduring legacy of Ivan Wolkind, Shep’s dear friend and chosen family, who died on May 10, 2024, may his memory be a blessing.
🎶 Discover the story behind “Knitted Together,” a song inspired by Ivan and Psalm 18, and hear how the brothers channel joy, grief, and the search for the divine into every note.
🔥 If you’ve ever wondered how art can transform pain into beauty - or how the bonds of brotherhood can light up even the darkest moments - this episode is for you.
Tap in for a conversation that’s honest, uplifting, and unforgettable. Hit play and let’s get inspired together!
#TheRestIsCommentary #Podcast #Creativity #MusicHeals #Brotherhood #Legacy #ArtAndSoul #IvanWolkind #PsalmSongs

015: Punk Torah and the Poetry of Prayer: A Conversation with Alicia Jo Rabins

What happens when a klezmer/classical/punk violinist, Torah teacher, and poet walks into a podcast? Pure magic.
Join Shep Rosenman for a soul-stirring conversation with the incomparable *Alicia Jo Rabins*—musician, writer, and spiritual adventurer—whose work weaves together Jewish mysticism, feminist insight, and raw creative fire.
In this electrifying episode of The Rest is Commentary, Alicia opens up about her groundbreaking project *Girls in Trouble*, the spiritual power of songwriting, and how she channels ancient texts into deeply personal relevant art. Whether she’s teaching Torah or shredding on the violin, Alicia is always asking: how do ritual, music, and story help us touch the divine?
Come for the klezmer, stay for the cosmic questions. This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered how ancient prayers and punk rock might be part of the same song.

014: Roots and Changes: A Conversation with Rav Hanan Schlesinger

Discover an inspiring episode of The Rest is Commentary as host Shep Rosenman welcomes Rav Hanan Schlesinger, an Orthodox rabbi with a unique perspective. Get ready for an enlightening journey through the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian relations and the power of grassroots initiatives.
Rav Hanan, co-founder of Roots-Shorashim-Judur, shares his compelling personal transformation from a West Bank settler to an advocate for mutual understanding. His story challenges us to reconsider our own perspectives and embrace the humanity in those we may see as 'other.'
This thought-provoking conversation explores:
- The delicate balance between loyalty and justice- How empathy can break down barriers- The potential of grassroots movements to create change in challenging political landscapes
Adding a touch of musical inspiration, Shep and Liz Hanellin's song "It's Late at the Bar," inspired by Psalm 30, weaves throughout the dialogue, connecting spirituality with the themes of reconciliation.
Join us for this engaging exploration of identity, values, and the pursuit of peace in one of the world's most complex regions. This episode promises to challenge your thinking and inspire hope for positive change.

013: Finding the Sacred in the Ordinary: A Conversation with Rabbi Sherre Hirsch

Imagine finding the divine in every conversation, every interaction, and every moment of your life. Join host Shep Rosenman and his inspiring guest, Rabbi Sherre Hirsch, as they embark on a profound exploration of spirituality in the most unexpected places all sparked by the song, The Ballad of a Ghost. With Sherre's insightful perspective and deep spiritual wisdom, they uncover how sacred moments can emerge from the ordinary, transforming our understanding of life's journey.
 
In this captivating episode, Shep and Rabbi Hirsch delve into the Psalms, often associated with solemn occasions, and reveal new layers of meaning that can enrich our daily lives. They also explore the transformative power of teachability, courage, and faith, and how these qualities can lead to personal growth and spiritual enlightenment.
 
From the rituals of life's transitions to the complexities within ourselves, Sherre shares relatable anecdotes that illuminate the divine potential in every human encounter. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to see the sacredness in life's ordinary moments and discover a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you.

012: Songs as Prayers, Grief as Music: A Conversation with Peter Himmelman

🎶🔥 **New Episode Alert!** 🔥🎶  
This week on *The Rest is Commentary*, I sit down with the one and only **Peter Himmelman**—Grammy & Emmy-nominated singer-songwriter, film composer, visual artist, and author—for a **deep, raw, and soul-stirring conversation**.  
🎤 **We talk about:**  ✨ The magic of songwriting and its connection to faith  💔 Turning grief into music—and music into healing  🕊️ The song he wrote for the **Bibas kids** and the power of songs as prayers  🔥 Following your heart in creativity (and in life)  💡 His one-of-a-kind meeting with the **Lubavitcher Rebbe**  🎸 How music helps us **find joy, even in the darkest times**  
And SO much more.  
This episode is **deeply personal, powerfully moving, and not to be missed**. 🎧💙  
➡️ Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!  #PeterHimmelman #Songwriting #FaithAndMusic #Podcast #Creativity #JewishMusic #TheRestIsCommentary