Intimate Judaism

3d ago

In this episode, we explore the many reasons men may avoid sexual intimacy. Challenging the myth of the "always-ready" husband, this episode explores the physical, psychological, relational, and religious factors that shape male sexuality. We discuss she impact of sexual guilt, shame, performance anxiety and trauma on sexual motivation and function, and offer guidelines for reconnection with compassion and understanding.

Nov 2

How can Jewish educators guide teens through questions about bodies, desire, and values without shame or fear? Talli and Scott sit down with Shuli Taubes to discuss why high school education about sex and sexual ethics matters, what healthy frameworks look like, and how schools can partner with parents to raise confident, thoughtful, and compassionate young adults.

Sep 16

In this premiere episode of the eighth season of Intimate Judaism, we collaborated with Together in Happiness, an organization dedicated to helping couples navigate marriage. Together, we are releasing a recording of a lecture delivered by cohost Talli Rosenbaum. In this talk, Talli discusses how Jewish marriage mirrors the relationship of the Jewish people with God, and draws upon the concepts of teshuva to provide a template for relational repair in marriage. To learn more about Together in Happiness, visit their website here.

Jun 22

Dr. Sara Glass, author of "Kissing Girls on Shabbat" was raised in the Hasidic community of Gur. Today, she is trauma therapist, identifies as queer, and though she is no longer religious herself, works with women along the religious and LGBTQ spectrum. We spoke to Sara about the risks and dangers of sexual experimentation when leaving religious life, and the complexities of integrating being gay and religious.

May 14

How do we talk to our kids about sex in a way that's honest, healthy, and grounded in Jewish values? In this episode of Intimate Judaism, Talli and Scott speak with Yonina Rubinstein to explore how parents can approach conversations about sexuality with sensitivity, clarity, and confidence. We discuss practical strategies for different ages and stages, the importance of modeling a positive attitude toward intimacy, and how halacha (Jewish law) and tradition can serve as a guide—not a barrier—to raising sexually healthy children. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just thinking ahead, this episode offers an essential roadmap for navigating "the Talk" in a way that's both open and deeply rooted in Jewish life.

Apr 27

Orthodox girls and women are traditionally taught to dress modestly in order to avoid attracting the male gaze and to keep men from sinful thoughts or behaviors. These messages, according to Rabbanit Oriya Mevorach, an educator and doctoral student of Gender and Philosophy, objectify and sexualize women and girls, and are actually influenced by Western society's sexuality discourse. Moreover, the effect of these messages present men as sexual beings while female sexuality is ignored. Rabbanit Mevorach, who studies sexuality and culture, presents an alternate approach to teaching modesty to young women in their teenage and young adult years. She also discusses what Jewish law has to say about female masturbation.

Mar 26

If you are on the autism spectrum, or know or suspect your spouse may be, intimacy and communication may present challenges. In this episode, Talli and Rabbi Scott speak with Tzippora Price, an expert on neurodivergent couples, to learn more. They identify some of the behaviors associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as some challenges that may occur when one spouse is neurodivergent (and whether these problems can likely be avoided if both spouses have ASD). They also address problems unique to Orthodox Jews on the spectrum, how these issues affect a couple's sex life, and some mechanisms for overcoming these challenges.

Feb 9

In this episode, Talli Rosenbaum and Rabbi Scott Kahn blend Jewish wisdom with modern psychology to explore marital doubt, intimacy challenges, and when to stay or go. Tune in for practical insights on transforming even the most challenging relationships.