The Long Short Way

Rabbi Mendy reconnects with childhood friend Aaron Prager for a deeply personal conversation about addiction, family, faith, and recovery. Aaron shares how drinking and drug use that began when he was just 12 years old eventually consumed his life, bringing him to 92 pounds, repeated attempts at treatment, and a rock bottom where he could no longer blame anyone else for the life he was living.

Now ten years sober, Aaron reflects on the spiritual journey that followed—learning to surrender control, build a relationship with God, and turn his life toward service rather than self. He also offers hard-earned wisdom for parents and families of people struggling with addiction: why love cannot always reason someone into recovery, how enabling and expectations can shape family dynamics, and why sometimes the most loving thing we can do is recognize what is (and isn’t) within our control.

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.