In this thought-provoking episode of The Long Short Way, Rabbi Mendy Bistritzky sits down with well-respected Rabbi and educator, Rabbi Mendel Zirkind, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on paradox, faith, doubt, and the challenges of spiritual leadership. With humility and honesty, Rabbi Zirkind reflects on paving his own path while growing up in a prestigious rabbinic family.
They explore what it means to pursue truth without abandoning faith, how to reconcile rational thinking with deep intuition, and why embracing paradox might be the most honest form of belief. Rabbi Zirkind shares his insights on parenting, trauma, how we can educate better, and his work with yeshiva students in alternative yeshiva settings. He also opens up about his personal connection to the Lubavitcher Rebbe and how that relationship continues to shape his decisions, including his upcoming move to Melbourne to become a community rabbi.
This episode isn't about easy answers—it's about honest questions and the beauty of serving Hashem the long short way.
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What is The Long Short Way?
The Long Short Way is a podcast hosted by Rabbi Mendy Bistritzky, where meaningful stories meet soulful conversations. Each episode explores the winding paths of personal growth, faith, and purpose—highlighting the unexpected ways that challenge can lead to clarity, and that the "long short way" is often the most direct route to real transformation.
Through heartfelt storytelling and thoughtful interviews, Rabbi Mendy speaks with individuals about their spiritual journeys, life experiences, and the moments that shaped who they are today.
Produced by Chabad of Saugus, this podcast invites you to slow down, dig deeper, and discover the beauty in the process.
Subscribe and join us on the journey.