The Beth El Podcast Network

Send us a textThis week, Rabbis Schwartz and Saroken dive into Parashat Beshalach as we continue through the Book of Exodus.From the splitting of the sea to the everyday struggles of parallel parking, we explore the tension between waiting for miracles and taking action in a chaotic world.How have your prayers changed since October 7? What values and morals are we most proud of as Jews? Do miracles really happen, or is human courage the force that carries us through tough times? Tune in!

Send us a textIn case you missed it or wanted to share, here is Rabbi Steven Schwartz's Shabbat Sermon at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (February 1, 2025)

Send us a textNEW Podcast Alert - Havdalah Happy Hour on the Beth El Podcast Network!It’s finally here—the long-awaited Pizza Dipping Sauce Debate! Marinara, ranch, buffalo, or something more adventurous? The Havdalah Happy Hour crew is weighing in on the ultimate dipping sauce showdown. Will there be a consensus, or will this be the debate that divides us forever? A huge thank you to Tov Pizza for making this deliciously heated discussion possible!Plus, don’t miss our Shonda of the Week segment—because what’s a Saturday night without a little bit of righteous indignation?

Send us a textThis week, Rabbis Schwartz and Saroken dive into Parashat Bo as we continue through the Book of Exodus.Locusts, darkness, and more—this portion is packed with drama! But beyond the plagues, we’re reminded of something deeper: No one gets left behind. We take care of each other because everyone matters.Resilience isn’t built overnight. Life isn’t always easy, and we all need support sometimes.What lessons are we passing down to our children? Let’s reflect together.

Send us a textIn case you missed it or wanted to share, here is Rabbi Naomi Zaslow's Shabbat Sermon at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (January 25, 2025)

Send us a textRemember when you could call a phone number to get the weather or the exact time? We reminisce about those simpler days while diving into some unexpected weather stories, like cold and snow in places where it never snows.We’ll also discuss how Shabbat start times affect our routines and our lives—because, let’s face it, trying to squeeze in errands before candle lighting can be a sport in itself!And, for a sneak peek at next week: pizza and dips take the spotlight. Are you team classic marinara or spicy ranch? Stay tuned for a saucy debate!Pour a drink, get cozy, and let’s dive into another lively Havdalah Happy Hour conversation!

Send us a textThis week Rabbis Schwartz and Saroken dive into Parashat Va'era from the Book of Exodus. Join us as we explore the first plagues, Moses' courage in confronting Pharaoh, and how history shapes our resilience during tough times.

Send us a textIn case you missed it or wanted to share, here is Rabbi Dana Saroken's Shabbat Sermon at Beth El Congregation of Baltimore. (January 18, 2025)During her weekly, Shabbat sermon, Rabbi Dana Saroken shared her recent experience in Israel. Rabbi Saroken served as a mentor in a fellowship that brought together rabbinical students from Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox movements.

Send us a textThis week on Havdalah Happy Hour, things get a little... suspicious. Emily recounts a strange phone call from the FBI? We dive into the world of scams—how they’ve evolved and why they’re so convincing. Also, home phones: who still has one, and are they making a retro comeback or just holding on for dear life? Plus, we reflect on how deeply we rely on the internet in our day-to-day lives, for better or worse.Grab a drink, unwind, and join the conversation on this modern-day public service announcement, served with a side of humor and a dash of insight.

Send us a textGet to know Paul Cooper and his family as we learn about Alex Cooper Auctioneers and their four generations of leadership in our community. This is the centennial year for this thriving family business that has a long-time connection to the Beth El community.