The Beth El Podcast Network

Send us a text"In case you missed it or want to share, here is Ritual Director Ben Kreshtool's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore." (January 16, 2026)January

Send us a text🎙️ Havdalah Happy Hour — Beth El Podcast NetworkSettle in for another cozy, laughter‑filled Havdalah Happy Hour with Ben Kreshtool, Jill Suffel, and Cantor Emily Ellentuck. This week’s conversation wanders through all the good stuff: journal updates, hopes for a little more peace and love in the world, and a handful of new recipe ideas to shake things up in the kitchen.The crew gently dips a toe into politics, unpacks the latest social media trends, and marvels (with only mild exasperation) at how our phones somehow start serving targeted  ads the moment we mention anything out loud.As always, the episode wraps with a heartfelt blessing of the week and a perfectly on‑brand shonda of the week.✨ Tune in, unwind, and enjoy the conversation.

Send us a textIn case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Abe Friedman's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (January 10, 2026)

Send us a textThis week’s Havdalah Happy Hour brings together Ben Kreshtool, Jill Suffel, and Cantor Emily Ellentuck for a delightfully nostalgic, winter‑cozy conversation you won’t want to miss.They dive straight into the golden age of 90s mall culture, complete with pay phones, food courts, and the joys of growing up before smartphones ruled the world. There’s a little collective sigh over Ravens football heartbreak, balanced by a whole lot of excitement for Orioles baseball to return and brighten the season.Between sips of Havdalah warmth, the crew chats about quiet winter‑break mornings, the crisp chill in the air, and small joys—like Jill finally getting her journal. Cantor Ellentuck shares the sweetness of welcoming a new puppy, while Ben offers a surprisingly thorough (and very entertaining) breakdown of how to drive.As always, the episode wraps with a heartfelt blessing of the week and a perfectly on‑brand shonda of the week.✨ Tune in, unwind, and enjoy the conversation.

Send us a textIn case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Steve Schwartz's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (January 3, 2026)

Send us a text"In case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Abe Friedman's  sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore." (December 27, 2025)

Send us a textIn case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Dana Saroken's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (December 20, 2025)

Send us a textThis week on Havdalah Happy Hour, Ben Kreshtool, Jill Suffel, and Emily Ellentuck are joined by special guest Sami Halle for a sweet and spirited conversation.The spotlight is on sufganyot as the group samples and rates an incredible spread—four bakeries, two dozen donuts, and plenty of opinions to go around. Listeners are invited to join the fun by sharing their favorite donut flavors or go‑to bakeries in the comments.The episode also explores the tradition of eating dairy on Hanukkah, sparking a thoughtful discussion about holiday customs. And when it comes to latkes, are you team zucchini or firmly against? The hosts debate with humor and heart before closing, as always, with a blessing and the beloved Shonda of the Week.Tune in and be part of the Havdalah Happy Hour community on the Beth El Podcast Network.

Send us a textIn case you missed it or want to share, here is Rabbi Steve Schwartz's sermon from this past Shabbat at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore.

Send us a textHavdalah Happy Hour – Beth El Podcast Network Join hosts Ben Kreshtool, Jill Suffel, and Emily Ellentuck for a festive Havdalah Happy Hour brimming with holiday spirit. This week’s conversation celebrates all things Hanukkah, from favorite sufganyot flavors to the excitement of the first candle tomorrow night. They also share laughs about the ups and downs of Black Friday shopping and slow shipping, along with plenty of special shout-outs—listen closely for your name and join the conversation in the comments.The trio takes a moment to appreciate listeners who reached out to Emily about musicals and songs, keeping the joy of theater alive in the discussion. And as always, the episode concludes with a blessing and the beloved “Shonda of the Week,” wrapping up with reflection, humor, and tradition.Tune in and be part of the Havdalah Happy Hour community.