Director Vicente Amorim joins host Shep Rosenman for a heartfelt conversation about “Infinite Light,” the song Shep co-wrote with Liz Hanellin inspired by Psalm 36. Together they explore how creativity lives in the tension between control and surrender — and how love, storytelling, and our inner teenager shape both art and family life. It’s an inspiring, deeply human exchange about vulnerability, joy, and the light that connects it all.

``` In this episode, Chava Mirel joins us to explore what happens when Judaism is guided by Torah rather than politics. She reminds us that the heart of Jewish life isn’t found in nationalism or power, but in compassion, responsibility, and moral clarity. Together, we reflect on how Torah can shape the way we show up in the world—with integrity, empathy, and purpose.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rosenman sits down with Jewish educator and storyteller Clive Lawton to explore the song “Weaving a Garment of Light” (“Work of Our Hands”), inspired by Psalm 19, and the balance between cosmic awe and everyday responsibility. They talk about Jewish thought’s embrace of contrasting ideas, the call to social and moral action, and the dangers of rigid, binary thinking in a world shaped by technology and AI. They also delve into Holocaust education, communal duty, hope for the Mashiach (Messiah), and concrete ways Jews can engage locally, globally, and creatively through their work and tradition.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rosenman speaks with Israeli tour guide, author, and activist Robby Berman in a raw, deeply personal conversation about faith, politics, and humanity in today’s Israel. Inspired by the song “What Would It Take?” and Psalm 22, they explore Robby’s journey from religious orthodoxy to outspoken secular activism. The discussion confronts violence, extremism, and the fragile hope for peace in a society torn between fear and compassion.

Discover how music, loss, and spirituality intersect in this episode of The Rest is Commentary as Shep Rosenman and Rabbi Dr. Bradley Shavit Artson unravel the depths of songwriting inspired by Psalm 134. Their heartfelt conversation dives into the emotional power of melodies and the role of family and tradition in shaping our stories. Tune in for a journey through grief, prayer, and the beauty found in diverse beliefs.

In this episode of The Rest is Commentary, host Shep Rosenman sits down with Texas musician and storyteller, Joe Buchanan for a deeply moving conversation about divine love and the power of good deeds. Together, they remind us that there is one God and nothing wrong with any of us — we are each loved, exactly as we are. Acts of kindness aren’t about rewards or fear, but about bringing more good into the world. Spirituality and goodness cross every boundary, and it’s in our everyday intentions that we find comfort, strength, and meaning. Tune in for an uplifting exploration of how understanding divine love can transform lives, and how good deeds are their own reward. And get to hear four live performances, two from Joe’s new album, Heaven & Earth, which can be found on his website, www.joebuchananmusic.com and wherever music is streamed or purchased, in addition to the songs Shep plays that start and end their conversation.

Tune in as Shep Rosenman hosts Professor Jeff Proske and Rabbi Julia Knobloch to talk about the song “I Forgot What Happened in Babylon.” Explore the idea of Los Angeles as a new Zion, learn what Babylon means today, and hear moving accounts of love, grief, and renewal. This episode shines a light on resilience, creativity, and the joy found when music and community come together.

In this 2024 conversation, host Shep Rosenman talks with songwriter Terri Sunflower about her journey of self-discovery, gender identity, and the healing power of music. Their discussion, inspired by “Two Is Better Than One” and Psalm 139, touches on coming out later in life, family, loss, and authenticity in art. The episode honors the memory of Terri’s father, Tom Cook, who passed away in 2025.

What do abandoned pianos, Psalm 39, and the chaos of Hollywood’s writers’ rooms have in common? Emmy-nominated Chuck Tatham joins Shep Rosenman to talk creativity, faith, and those unexpected moments that give life meaning. Tune in for stories, laughs, and real talk about life, music, and belief.

In this episode, Rabbi Rachel Kobrin and Jeff Ward step into the ring with Shep Rosenman for a conversation on prayer, resilience, and the fight to keep tradition alive. With insights from music, Talmud, and community, they spotlight new ways to engage Jewish life including exploring Jeff’s upcoming book, Shabbat on Mars.

Shep Rosenman talks with singer-songwriter and grief therapist Ingrid Avison about creating “Little Prizes,” a song inspired by Psalm 86 and the final days of Shep’s friend, Kim Simon, to whom the episode is dedicated. They explore how grief can serve as both pain and creative force, touching on co-writing with Liz Hanellin, music as healing practice, and the role of humor, presence, and community in loss.

abbi Shoshana Boyd Gelfand joins Shep Rosenman to reflect on grief, ritual, and resilience. From the silence of mourning to the music of memory, they explore Jewish and interfaith practices that help us honor loss, find meaning, and create connection

Shep Rosenman sits down with co-writer Leah Lesch to share the story behind “Bring Him Home,” a moving piece drawn from Psalm 126 and written in the aftermath of October 7th. They reveal how the song was created and brought to life through Nettie Wolkind’s heartfelt performance. At its core, the piece is a prayer for Hersh Goldberg-Polin and all the hostages to come home. This intimate conversation invites listeners into the emotions and purpose woven into every note. The episode is dedicated to Hersh’s memory.

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep Rosenman and Rabbi Mel Gottlieb dive into the transformative journey of embracing both our light and shadow to achieve true wholeness and spiritual growth. Drawing on Shep’s song, ”Finding My Way Out,” and Kabbalistic and Jungian wisdom, they explore how self-acceptance, including our darker sides, is the key to loving others and discovering deeper unity. Through inspiring discussion and soulful music, the episode weaves together themes of memory, gratitude, heresy, and divine connection, urging listeners to find God within themselves and in the act of compassionate balance.

Join host Shep Rosenman in a compelling conversation with Brazilian writer-director Anne Pinheiro Guimarães as they explore the spiritual power of self-reflection, the creative flow of inspiration, and the fine line between being reflective and being judgmental. Anne shares how her multicultural roots, global travels, and personal journals have shaped her work as a filmmaker, opening up about identity, sexuality, and the quiet truths that emerge in the spaces between family, heritage, and transformation. Whether you’re a returning listener or discovering *The Rest is Commentary* for the first time, this episode offers a rich, thought-provoking journey into the heart of art and soul.

Join host Shep Rosenman for a captivating conversation with acclaimed historian, host of the Jewish History Soundbites podcast, and tour guide Yehuda Geberer that’s equal parts profound and uplifting. Inspired by a moving visit to his parents’ graves and the timeless words of Psalm 16, Shep opens up about the story behind his heartfelt song, “Can’t Stay Here Long.”

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, Shep sits down with Rabbanit Alissa Thomas-Newborn—synagogue spiritual leader, hospital chaplain, interfaith bridge-builder, and author—to reflect on trauma, creativity, and the fragile hope that persists in times of crisis. From her early encouragement to transform Shep’s songs into a podcast to her reflections on civic unrest, interfaith dialogue, and parenting after October 7th, Alissa offers wisdom rooted in Torah, pastoral care, and lived experience. With vulnerability and strength, she challenges us to confront hate without becoming hardened and to respond to pain with acts of life, connection, and sacred presence.

In this special episode of “The Rest is Commentary,” host Shep Rosenman sits down with Rabbi Joe Black to reflect on Joe’s inspiring journey as a rabbi, musician, and songwriter as he prepares to retire from Temple Emanuel in Denver. Listeners are treated to spontaneous performances of Joe’s songs and heartfelt stories that reveal how music and spirituality are deeply intertwined in his life. The conversation explores the three transformative stages of spirituality—awareness, appreciation, and action—using the evocative song “Endless” as a touchstone for their discussion. Joe also shares candid insights into balancing his dual roles as spiritual leader and artist, highlighting the power of faith, creativity, and embracing change.

In this powerful episode of The Rest is Commentary, acclaimed singer,  composer, ritual leader, and rocker, Naomi Less joins the conversation to unravel the deep complexities of Jewish identity and the pursuit of safety in this increasingly turbulent world. As a self-described “Lefty Zionist,” Naomi shares her personal journey—one shaped by resilience, hope, and, more recently, the rising tide of anti-Semitism. Using the lens of Shep's evocative song “Until When,” inspired by Psalm 13, Naomi reveals how music becomes both a sanctuary and a call to action. Listeners are invited into this candid exploration of what it means to navigate difficult conversations, foster critical thinking, and lean into rituals that nurture and sustain community bonds. The episode pays heartfelt tribute to Sarah Lynn Milgram and Yaron Lishinsky, may their memories be a blessing.  Their murders underscore the urgent need for peace, empathy, and understanding in these challenging times.

Shep sits down with his cousin, Rachell Koegel — a passionate writer and educator from Oceanside, New York — to unravel the powerful influence of role models and the lifelong journey of unlearning the patterns we pick up in childhood. Rachell shares stories that highlight the importance of being truly present and the courage it takes to break old cycles. They discuss accountability, the shadow cast by fear, and the delicate dance of breaking and repairing relationships. The episode is dedicated to Rachell’s late mother, Selma Nadboy (nee Rosenman).