Religion & SpiritualityJudaism

Torah BeReal

Rabbi Mendel Winner

Quick Torah thoughts. Real talk. Genuine inspiration. “Torah BeReal” keeps the Parsha real and relevant for everyone.

Play

Open in

21 episodes
weekly
Avg 10 min
English

Episodes 21

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

S1 · E43
Friday · 10 min
Sukkot - What Does G-d’s Hug Feel Like?
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we dive into the deeper meaning of Sukkot and what the Sukkot Hut represents. The Sukkah is more than a temporary hut it represents Hashem’s hug. When we step inside, we’re completely surrounded by the mitzvah, reminding us that Hashem embraces us exactly as we are, with our strengths, our struggles, the good, and even the parts we’re still working on. We also explore the meaning behind the Four Species. Each one represents a different type of Jew, with different strengths and different levels of connection. Yet the mitzvah can only be fulfilled when all four are brought together, bringing out the power of unity.
S1 · E42
September 17 · 11 min
Yom Kippur - A Once A Year Jew?
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we dive into Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year, and what makes it so powerful. Yom Kippur is about recognizing and revealing the deepest relationship we have with G-d. We explore three different levels of that connection, each one bringing us deeper until we reach the very core of who we are, the part of us that is always connected to G-d, no matter what. We also discuss why and how we celebrate Yom Kippur. Although it’s a serious day of fasting and prayer, at its core, Yom Kippur is not a sad day. It’s a day of incredible closeness, forgiveness, and the opportunity to strip away everything on the outside and reveal our truest selves. A conversation about going beneath the surface, discovering our deepest connection with G-d, and understanding what Yom Kippur is really all about.
S1 · E41
September 10 · 10 min
Rosh Hashana On Shabbat Is The Biggest Blessing. Let's Debunk The Myth
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we talk about what Rosh Hashanah is really about. Rosh Hashanah marks the anniversary of the creation of mankind, making it a time to stop and think: Why were we created? What is our purpose, and are we actually living up to it? We also explore the central theme of Rosh Hashanah, crowning Hashem as King. It’s not only about believing in Hashem, but consciously accepting His kingship over us and allowing that to shape the way we live. And with Rosh Hashanah falling on Shabbos this year, we unpack why that is actually an incredible blessing, not something negative or something we’re “missing out” on. We discuss the power of our words and perspective, and how speaking negatively about Rosh Hashanah falling on Shabbos can, G-d forbid, create negativity around something that is truly meant to be a blessing.
S1 · E40
September 3 · 10 min
Nitzavim-Vayelech - United By Our Differences
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we explore what true unity really means. Unity doesn’t mean we’re all the same, we each have different personalities, strengths, and missions. True unity is recognizing those differences while still standing together and treating one another with genuine love and respect. We also dive into three central concepts of the High Holidays: Teshuvah, Tefillah, and Tzedakah. Often translated as repentance, prayer, and charity, their real meanings go much deeper. We unpack what each one truly represents and how they connect to our mission. As we approach Rosh Hashanah, we take a deeper look at what this time of year is really asking of us.
S1 · E39
August 27 · 17 min
Ki Savo- Is Your Judaism Conditional?
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we’re talking about our perspective on what we have, what we do, and what comes our way. Bikkurim reminds us that even after all the work and effort we put in, we have to recognize that ultimately, our success comes from Hashem. And the more we can appreciate what we have instead of always looking for what’s next, the happier we can actually be. The same idea applies to mitzvos. We don’t do them because we’re waiting for something in return — we do them because they’re right and because they’re what Hashem wants from us. And when things happen that don’t feel good or make sense, we remember who they’re coming from. Hashem is a loving Father. We may not always understand what’s happening in the moment, but sometimes what looks bad can turn out to be a blessing in disguise.
S1 · E38
August 20 · 15 min
Elul - G-d came to greet you!
In this week’s Torah BeReal, we’re tapping into the special energy of Elul when “the King is in the field.” This month, Hashem comes closer to us, making Himself available even the Jews who feel distant or disconnected. It’s a time when we can approach Him, ask for what we need, and reconnect. There’s a unique energy in the air during Elul. Hashem is close and waiting for us to turn to Him. Tap into it, take advantage of it, and go greet the King.
S1 · E38
August 13 · 11 min
Shoftim- Are We Supposed To Have A Loving Relationship With G-d?
This week’s parsha tells us to place judges and guards at our gates. On a deeper level, our “gates” are our eyes, ears, mouth, etc. We have to be careful about what we allow ourselves to see, what we listen to, and what we say. What we let in affects who we become, so we want to guard our gates and fill ourselves with positivity and things that help us grow. Later in the parsha, the Torah tells us not to try to predict the future. Why? Because when we truly trust in Hashem, we don’t need to be worried about what’s coming next. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring, but Hashem does. Sometimes things happen that seem bad, disappointing, or make absolutely no sense to us. But we have to let go and let G-d in. Trust that even when we can’t see it yet, Hashem is doing it for our good and leading us toward something bigger and better.
S1 · E37
August 6 · 14 min
Reeh - An Investment That Beats The Stock Market
In this week's Torah BeReal, Parshat Reeh, teaches us that giving ma'aser isn't losing money, it's making the best investment. When we give 10% to tzedakah, we're showing Hashem that we trust Him, and He promises to bless us with even more. What we give away is never really lost. The Torah also tells us to "be strong" not to eat blood. But why does it take strength to avoid something that seems so easy? One explanation is that drinking blood was common in ancient times (and still exists in some places today). Another teaches an even deeper lesson: even the mitzvot that are easy for us should be done with passion and dedication. Serving Hashem isn't only about overcoming big challenges, it's about putting our heart into every mitzvah. Finally, the Torah reminds us that we are Hashem's children. No matter what, we are deeply loved. We are also the chosen people, not because life is easier for us, but because we have a greater mission and responsibility. Being chosen is a privilege, and with that privilege comes the challenge to live up to our calling.
S1 · E36
July 29 · 12 min
Eikev - The Heel Generation
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore the meaning of Eikev, which means heel. Some commandments are treated like the heel—they're overlooked because they seem small or unimportant. Yet it's often those unnoticed acts that show the greatest commitment to G-d. Doing what's right even when it doesn't feel significant is what builds a genuine relationship with Him. We also discuss why our generation is called the generation that will hear the heels of Moshiach. We may not feel as spiritually inspired as previous generations, but just like the heel responds immediately when it's time to move, we continue serving G-d with commitment and determination. Even without constant inspiration, we remain steadfast because our connection to G-d is built on loyalty, not just emotion. Finally, we unpack the verse, "Man does not live by bread alone." Physical things only have power because G-d gives them life. We work hard and care for our bodies, but true success and fulfillment come from G-d's blessing—and from nourishing not only our bodies, but our souls as well.
S1 · E35
July 22 · 11 min
Tisha B'Av- Down To Build Up
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore the real message of Tisha B'Av. The Beis Hamikdash wasn't destroyed randomly, it was destroyed because of our actions. The First Temple fell because of idolatry, murder, and immoral relationships, while the Second Temple was destroyed because of baseless hatred. If that's what caused the destruction, then the path to rebuilding is doing the exact opposite. We also discuss a powerful perspective: the destruction wasn't the end of the story. The Beis Hamikdash was only destroyed so that something even greater could be built. The Third Beis Hamikdash will be eternal, greater than the first two, and will usher in the ultimate redemption. Tisha B'Av isn't just about mourning what we lost—it's about becoming the generation that helps bring it back.
S1 · E34
July 17 · 7 min
Devarim - Criticize With Love
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore what it really means to care enough to correct someone. Parshas Devarim teaches us that rebuke isn't about proving a point or making someone feel guilty—it's about helping them grow. If our words come from love and genuine concern, they can build someone up instead of breaking them down. We also discuss Shabbos Chazon, the Shabbos before Tisha B'Av. While it comes right before the saddest day of the Jewish calendar, its message isn't to stay focused on destruction—it's to look ahead with hope. Every mitzvah, every act of kindness, and every positive choice brings us one step closer to the ultimate redemption. Instead of dwelling on what was lost, we're challenged to become the generation that brings Moshiach.
S1 · E33
July 9 · 10 min
Matos-Maasei - Should I Wear The Rolex?
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore what it means to live with purpose instead of comfort. Parshas Matos–Maasei teaches us that just because something is permitted doesn't mean we have to indulge in it. Real growth comes from self-control and choosing what's meaningful over what's merely available. We also discuss how we sometimes disguise our comfort zone as responsibility. The tribes of Reuven and Gad wanted to settle early, but Moshe reminded them that they first had a mission to help the rest of the Jewish people. In the same way, we're not meant to hide in a "spiritual bubble." Our purpose is to bring light into the world and positively influence those around us. Finally, we reflect on the 42 journeys of the Jewish people, which mirror our own lives. Every challenge, setback, and victory is another stop on the journey toward our personal "Promised Land." Some seasons are harder than others, but each one has a purpose, and every step is bringing us closer to who we're meant to become.
S1 · E32
July 2 · 8 min
Pinchas - Intent over Image
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore what it means to have a real relationship with Hashem. Parshas Pinchas reminds us that prayer isn't just something we do three times a day—it's our opportunity to connect with Hashem. The more we pray with intention, the stronger that relationship becomes. We also discuss why Pinchas was rewarded with a covenant of peace after such a dramatic act. The difference wasn't only in what he did—it was why he did it. Pinchas acted purely for Hashem and to save the Jewish people, while Zimri disguised his own desires as a "holy cause." The parsha teaches us to be honest with ourselves and ask: Are we truly acting for the right reasons, or are we just giving our own agenda a spiritual label?
S1 · E31
June 25 · 8 min
Chukat - Balak - Trust Beyond Logic
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore what real commitment to Hashem looks like. Parshas Chukat–Balak teaches us that not every mitzvah is meant to make sense. Some mitzvos are chukim—commandments beyond human understanding—and that's exactly what makes them so powerful. When we choose to do something simply because Hashem asked us to, it shows a deeper level of trust and connection. We discuss how true faith isn't built only on what we can explain, but on our willingness to stay committed even when we don't have all the answers. Because sometimes the greatest expression of our relationship with Hashem is saying, "I may not understand it—but I trust You."
S1 · E30
June 17 · 8 min
Korach - Connection Needs Direction
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we dive into the story of Korach and one of Judaism's biggest questions: if every Jew is holy, why do we need a Moshe? We explore how mitzvos aren't meant to be done mechanically, they're meant to shine. While every Jew has a direct connection to Hashem, Moshe was completely connected to Him and showed the Jewish people how to bring holiness into the world in the most beautiful and meaningful way. We also discuss why Hashem chose for blessings to flow through Moshe. Could we get everything directly? Maybe, but Hashem designed the world so that a leader connects us to something greater than ourselves. Through Moshe, the Jewish people received both spiritual and physical blessings. And although Moshe lived thousands of years ago, every generation has a spark of Moshe, a leader and Rebbe who guides us. By learning from their teachings and following their direction, we can bring Hashem's light into our everyday lives.
S1 · E29
June 11 · 11 min
Shelach - Grasshopper Mentality
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore the story of the Spies and what happens when we see ourselves as small. The spies felt like grasshoppers in their own eyes, and that mindset caused them to fear the challenges ahead. But Yehoshua and Calev reminded the Jewish people that when Hashem is on your side, there’s nothing you can’t overcome. We also discuss how the spies, who were great, righteous leaders, could make such a mistake. The desert felt like the perfect spiritual life: miracles, protection, and no worries about food or livelihood. But Hashem didn’t take us out of Egypt to stay in the desert forever. Our mission is to bring holiness into the physical world, not run away from it. Finally, we learn from the mitzvah of separating challah that the first part should be given to Hashem. When we start with Hashem, whether through prayer, Torah, or giving tzedakah, it elevates everything that comes after and gives our everyday lives a higher purpose.
S1 · E28
May 28 · 4 min
Naso - Level Up
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we talk about what it really means to grow consistently in Judaism. Sometimes doing the same mitzvos every day can start to feel repetitive, but Parshas Naso teaches us that consistency isn’t meant to make Judaism boring. It’s what makes Torah become part of who we are. We also explore why the topics of Sotah and Nazir are placed right next to each other. When we’re surrounded by confusion, negativity, or moral chaos, the answer isn’t to give up or feel dragged down by it. The response is to elevate ourselves even more to create stronger boundaries, grow higher, and become stronger spiritually. Because real growth doesn’t happen by running away from challenges. It happens by rising above them.
S1 · E27
May 14 · 8 min
Bamidbar - Count Me In
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we dive into the message of Parshas Bamidbar and what it means to find Hashem even in the “desert” moments of life, the empty, confusing, or lonely times. The Torah was given in the desert to teach us that even there, Hashem is with us. We also explore the counting of the Jewish people and how every single person matters. Each of us is here for a purpose, and life works best when Hashem is at the center of everything we do. And through this week’s Pirkei Avot, we discuss the surprising idea that true freedom isn’t doing whatever we want, it’s living with the Torah as our guide.
S1 · E26
May 8 · 9 min
Behar - Bechukosai - Control Is An Illusion
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore the idea that maybe… control is an illusion. Parshas Behar teaches us the mitzvah of Shmita, we have to work and put in effort, but ultimately Hashem is our partner, and everything is in His hands. We also discuss why the Torah tells us not to charge interest, teaching us to lead with care and generosity when another Jew needs help. And in Bechukosai, we dive into the powerful idea that even the darkness in our lives comes from Hashem. Sometimes blessings look good right away, and sometimes they don’t, but even the challenges can push us toward something greater.
S1 · E25
April 30 · 8 min
Emor- Who Are You?
In this episode of Torah BeReal, we explore how every single day counts. Sefiras HaOmer teaches us that each day is a chance to grow, improve, and become better than yesterday. We also discuss how we’re always representing something bigger. The way you live and act shows what a Jew is like. Parshas Emor teaches us another powerful lesson: we have to work and do our part, but we can’t let our work define us. That’s when Shabbos comes along and reminds us- work is what we do, not who we are.

Showing 1–20 of 21 episodes