Common Faith

What does the future of rabbinic leadership look like—and why does it matter for all of us?In this episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel take on a question hiding in plain sight: Are we cultivating enough rabbis to meet the spiritual, communal, and moral needs of the Jewish future? Joined by Rabbi Shira Koch Epstein, Executive Director of Atra: Center for Rabbinic Innovation, the conversation moves from personal calling to systemic challenge.Drawing on Atra’s landmark national study, Rabbi Epstein shares eye-opening data about the rabbinic pipeline—who is becoming a rabbi, who isn’t, and why. Together, they explore the realities of rabbinic life today: meaningful work, burnout, blurred boundaries, financial barriers, and the changing ways people seek connection, guidance, and faith.Along the way, the episode weaves together humor, heart, and hard truths—asking what it means to serve, to lead, and to pass sacred tradition from one generation to the next in a rapidly changing world. In a time when so many are searching for meaning, this conversation reminds us why spiritual leadership still matters—and what it will take to sustain it. Atra:https://atrarabbis.org/https://www.instagram.com/atrarabbishttps://www.facebook.com/atrarabbis/?_rdrRabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrovePark Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel unwrap the deeper meaning of Hanukkah—beyond latkes, dreidels, and eight nights of gifts. Joining them is renowned writer and public intellectual Yossi Klein Halevi, whose personal journey from Brooklyn to Jerusalem illuminates the holiday’s layered history and its evolving place in Jewish identity.Together, they explore the many versions of the Hanukkah story: the miracle of the oil, the military victory of the Maccabees, the struggle against assimilation, and the celebration of reclaimed Jewish sovereignty. Yossi reflects on growing up as the son of Holocaust survivors, his early attraction to Jewish extremism, and the decades-long transformation that led him toward a more expansive, nuanced understanding of Judaism, Israel, and power.From public menorahs in Israeli town squares to quiet candle-lighting in American homes, the conversation traces how Hanukkah is celebrated across cultures—and how October 7th has reshaped Jewish vulnerability, resilience, and collective memory worldwide. With candor, humor, and heart, Elliot, Jon, and Yossi hold space for the tensions, debates, and hopes pulsing through Jewish life today.A moving and timely episode that reminds us: Hanukkah isn’t just a holiday—it’s a lens on identity, history, and the stories we choose to pass on. Yossi Klein Halevihttps://www.yossikleinhalevi.com/https://www.facebook.com/YossiKleinHalevi/https://x.com/YKleinHaleviRabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrovePark Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this deeply human and unexpectedly joyful episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel sit down with celebrated artist Joel Mesler, whose vibrant, pop-infused works have become synonymous with healing, humor, and Jewish identity. Through Mesler’s remarkable life story — from a turbulent childhood in Beverly Hills to an intense yeshiva experience, to addiction, recovery, and artistic rebirth — the trio explores what it means to wrestle with your past while still choosing light.Mesler speaks candidly about nine years of sobriety, the lies we tell ourselves in our own voice, and the moment he realized he needed help. He shares how art became both expression and salvation, and how Judaism organically re-entered his life through painting anonymous old “rabbi portraits” that no one wanted — until he transformed them into sought-after pieces of contemporary Judaica.An inspiring conversation about creativity, faith, identity, recovery, and choosing light in a world that doesn’t always make it easy. Joel Meslerhttps://www.joelmesler.comhttps://www.instagram.com/joelmesler/?hl=enRabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrovePark Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the season of gratitude — and good food. Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel welcome legendary creator and host Phil Rosenthal (Everybody Loves Raymond, Somebody Feed Phil) for a conversation that blends faith, food, and funny family traditions.Rosenthal shares how his Jewish upbringing shaped his love of storytelling, how he reinvented himself from sitcom writer to world-traveling food host, and why laughter — like a good meal — brings people together. From goose instead of turkey to matzo-ball soup and carrot kugel, this episode celebrates how recipes carry identity and connection across generations.Together, Elliot, Jon, and Phil explore what Thanksgiving teaches us about gratitude, reinvention, and finding humor — even when the turkey’s dry. Phil Rosenthalhttps://philrosenthalworld.com/Everybody Loves Raymondhttps://www.cbs.com/shows/everybody-loves-raymond/Somebody Feed Philhttps://www.netflix.com/title/80151255Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrovePark Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel welcome Rabbi Michael Siegel of Anshe Emet Synagogue and Pastor Chris Harris of Bright Star Church and St. James Ministries in Chicago — two spiritual leaders who turned an unlikely friendship into a national model for faith-based partnership and healing.Together, they trace the story of how a single lunch meeting 14 years ago blossomed into a thriving alliance between the Black and Jewish communities — one that has built playgrounds, inspired hundreds of interfaith exchanges, and even created a trauma counseling program modeled after Israel’s NATAL center.The conversation ranges from mentorship and faith to violence, healing, and the sacred responsibility of leadership. Pastor Harris shares how visiting Israel reshaped his ministry on Chicago’s South Side, while Rabbi Siegel reflects on the power of humility, courage, and the simple idea that 'before you can help someone else’s trauma, you must face your own.'It’s a moving portrait of faith in action — proof that when spiritual leaders listen, learn, and labor together, real change follows. Pastor Chris Harrishttps://www.instagram.com/pastorharris/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/Pastor.Chris.Harris.Sr/https://www.brightstarchurchchicago.com/https://www.stjamesministrieschicago.com/pastorchrisharris Rabbi Michael Siegelhttps://www.ansheemet.org/welcome/clergy/rabbi-michael-siegel/ American Friends of Natalhttps://www.afnatal.org/ Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/#  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is football America’s true religion? Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel sit down with ESPN’s Adam Schefter—who they dub as the “Pope” of NFL information—to explore the game’s unmatched hold on American life. From the gridiron to the pulpit, they discuss how football has eclipsed baseball as the nation’s pastime, what it says about our shared culture, and how faith, fandom, and identity intertwine every Sunday.Schefter reflects on his unlikely rise from a rejected Michigan freshman to one of sports media’s most trusted voices, and opens up about his deeply personal book *The Man I Never Met*, honoring his wife’s late husband who perished on 9/11.The conversation moves from locker rooms to life lessons—touching on ethics in sports, personal faith, and the ways football mirrors both our values and our vices. The episode closes with a visit from former Michigan defensive back Jeff Cohen, who revisits his now-legendary decision to play on Yom Kippur under Bo Schembechler, proving once again that faith and football often share the same field. Adam Schefterhttps://x.com/AdamSchefter?lang=enhttps://www.instagram.com/adamschefter/?hl=en ESPN football:https://www.espn.com/nfl/ Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it mean to reclaim Jewish identity in a world that often misunderstands or maligns it? In this episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel welcome author Sarah Hurwitz, former speechwriter for Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton, to discuss her new book As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us.Hurwitz shares her transformation from a self-described “cultural Jew” to a deeply engaged student of Jewish thought and tradition. Together, they explore how antisemitism has shaped Jewish self-perception, what it means to live as a proud Jew in modern times, and why genuine learning and connection—not apology or erasure—are the path forward.With honesty, humor, and heart, this conversation unpacks the struggle between assimilation and authenticity, the intersection of faith and identity, and how study itself can be a profound act of spirituality. Sarah Hurwitzhttps://www.sarahhurwitz.net/ Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel explore what it means to live as a proud Jew in today’s divided world. This episode features Rabbi Cosgrove’s powerful Rosh Hashanah sermon about Jonas Phillips—the Revolutionary War–era patriot who proved that Jewish identity and American ideals could thrive side by side.Through Phillips’ story, the rabbi reflects on the freedoms and responsibilities of American Jews today, confronting the rising challenges of antisemitism, polarization, and self-censorship. Together, he and John discuss how to balance faith, freedom, and identity—and why two things can be true at once: that we can love both America and Israel, debate passionately and still stay united, and express faith proudly while embracing diversity of thought.It’s a conversation about courage, conscience, and the ongoing American Jewish experiment—and a call to live out faith in both the private and public square. Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel step into rarely charted territory—the intersection of faith and politics. Following a sermon that went viral, Rabbi Cosgrove reflects on why he felt compelled to speak out during New York City’s mayoral race, addressing what he calls a “moment of moral urgency” for the Jewish people with concerns about the anti-Zionist rhetoric of candidate Zohran Mamdani and its implications for the Jewish community. The discussion delves into personal stories, community connections, and the importance of voting, all while exploring the complexities of Jewish identity in a rapidly changing world.Together, the rabbi and Jon unpack the sermon’s impact, the response it ignited, and the complex balance between spiritual leadership and civic engagement. They explore how faith communities navigate political tensions, the blurry line between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, and why love—for Israel, for community, for humanity—sometimes demands difficult choices.It’s an episode that challenges, provokes, and ultimately asks: when does faith require us to raise our voices, even when it’s uncomfortable? Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a historic week for Israel and the Jewish people, Common Faith hosts Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and Emmy Award–winning journalist Jon Frankel pause their planned programming to reflect on the emotional return of hostages and what this moment means for Jewish identity, faith, and unity.With compassion and candor, they explore the deep mix of relief, grief, and moral reckoning that defines this chapter of Jewish life—asking how a people can celebrate freedom while confronting loss.. At the heart of their conversation is a profound truth: two things can be true at once. Love of Israel can coexist with critique; pride can live alongside pain; faith can hold both resilience and doubt.Rabbi Cosgrove shares his Yom Kippur sermon, Of Silver Platters and Mirrors, a stirring meditation on love for Israel, moral conscience, and the enduring call to hold empathy and self-defense in the same heart. Together, he and Jon offer a deeply human conversation on resilience, responsibility, and what it means to remain connected—to Israel, to community, and to common faith—in a divided world. Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel dive into the meaning of Simchat Torah—the joyful festival that celebrates completing the annual Torah reading cycle. Together, they explore how rereading sacred texts each year reveals new layers of meaning and shapes Jewish identity and community.They are joined by Reverend A.R. Bernard, founder of the Christian Cultural Center and one of New York’s most influential faith leaders. Reverend Bernard shares his remarkable spiritual journey—from banking to ministry, Catholicism to Protestantism, even a period in the Nation of Islam—and reflects on the power of scripture, curiosity, and bridge-building across faith traditions. The conversation ranges from the shared scriptural roots of Judaism and Christianity to the challenges of identity in modern society, the impact of technology on community, and what it means to live with dignity, purpose, and faith in a divided world. Reverend A.R. Bernardhttps://arbernardnews.com/ Christian Cultural Centerhttps://www.cccinfo.org/ Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/# Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Common Faith, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove and journalist Jon Frankel mark the festival of Sukkot — a time of joy, hospitality, and welcoming all to the table. They are joined by Father Enrique Salvo, Rector of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, who reflects on his own journey of faith, the role of the Cathedral in New York and beyond, and the importance of building bridges between traditions. Together, they explore how Sukkot’s themes of openness and connection resonate across faiths and the importance of welcoming others during the Jewish festival, reminding us that what unites us is often greater than what divides us.St. Patrick's Cathedralhttps://www.saintpatrickscathedral.org/Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/#Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Common Faith, we’re joined by Rabbi Shira Stutman, a nationally recognized spiritual leader and teacher, for a thoughtful conversation about Yom Kippur—the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. Together, we explore what it means to pause, reflect, and seek forgiveness in a world that rarely slows down.Rabbi Stutman shares insights on the power of atonement, the beauty of community prayer, and how the lessons of Yom Kippur reach beyond Judaism to offer wisdom for anyone searching for renewal and reconnection. With warmth and depth, she helps us see how this sacred day is less about guilt and more about growth.Whether you’re observing Yom Kippur or simply curious about its universal themes of honesty, healing, and hope, this conversation invites you to reflect on what it means to begin again.Links:Rabbi Shira Stutman[Aspen Jewish Congregation](https://www.aspenjewish.org)[Chutzpod Podcast](https://www.chutzpod.com)Park Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/#Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on Common Faith, we welcome bestselling author and culinary innovator Jake Cohen to the table for a conversation as rich and flavorful as his recipes. With Rosh Hashanah just around the corner, Jake shares how food brings tradition, memory, and modern creativity together in celebrating the Jewish New Year. From brisket and gefilte fish to contemporary twists on holiday classics, we explore how meals can be more than sustenance—they can be rituals of connection, resilience, and joy.Join us as we talk about Jake’s own journey of blending heritage with his cooking, what Rosh Hashanah means to him, and how food becomes a language of faith, family, and community. Whether you’re preparing your own holiday table or simply curious about the deeper meaning behind these traditions, this conversation will leave you inspired—and maybe a little hungry. Links:Jake Cohenhttps://www.wakeandjake.com/https://www.instagram.com/jakecohenhttps://www.tiktok.com/@jakecohenDinner Party Animalhttps://www.wakeandjake.com/dinner-party-animalOne Tablehttps://www.onetable.orgPark Avenue Synagoguehttps://www.pasyn.orghttps://www.instagram.com/parkavenuesyn/#Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove:https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgrove Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Connect now!https://www.instagram.com/elliot_cosgrovehttps://x.com/RabbiCosgroveAnd email us anytime! CommonFaith@SiriusXM.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.