Episode 205

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Published on:

20th Jul 2023

Judaism in the 21st Century: Disruption, Spirituality, and Finding Meaning with Rabbi Michael Strassfeld

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We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Rabbi Michael Strassfeld about his new book, Judaism Disrupted: A Spiritual Manifesto for the 21st Century. In our enlightening conversation, we explored his journey to becoming a rabbi and how the core principles of Judaism can be applied to our modern lives. Rabbi Strassfeld shared the best advice he ever received: being present and listening to people rather than trying to provide answers. He also opened up about his unusual hobby of collecting signs from old synagogues and Jewish institutions, uncovering the story they tell about the American Jewish experience.

Our discussion took a deeper turn as we delved into Rabbi Strassfeld's path from Orthodoxy to more liberal forms of Judaism and his thoughts on the uncertain future of Judaism in light of the challenges of modernity. We also discussed the Jewish Counterculture of the 1960s and 70s, which encouraged people to become more active and engaged with their Judaism. Rabbi Strassfeld shared how spirituality and meditation have influenced his Judaism and his decision to become a rabbi at the age of 41.

Lastly, we tackled the disconnect between Jewish rituals and practices and how they are perceived by people in the 21st century. Rabbi Strassfeld shared his thoughts on the concept of justice and how it relates to anti-Semitism and racism, as well as the importance of compromise and the idea of Mishpat Shalom, or justice of peace. Our conversation concluded with his encouragement for people to create their own version of a spiritual life and find ways to reconnect with it. This episode is bound to leave you with valuable insights and a fresh perspective on Judaism in the 21st century.

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About the Podcast

Becoming Bridge Builders
Biblical Common Sense for a Divided World
Becoming Bridge Builders is a faith-centered podcast hosted by Rev. Dr. Keith Haney, created for believers who sense God’s call to lead with wisdom, courage, and compassion in a deeply divided world. In an age of cultural confusion, outrage, and fractured relationships, this podcast exists to replace societal absurdity with biblical common sense and Christ-centered clarity.
Each episode explores how God is raising up modern-day bridge builders—men and women equipped to stand firm in truth while extending grace, listening well, and leading with conviction. Through biblical teaching, cultural commentary, and practical application, Becoming Bridge Builders offers fearless yet thoughtful guidance for navigating today’s toughest issues without sacrificing faith or integrity.
Listeners will be encouraged and equipped with:
Scripture-rooted wisdom for understanding today’s cultural challenges
Practical strategies for bridging divides in families, churches, workplaces, and communities
Faith-filled leadership principles that move beyond talk into action
Bold encouragement to live out your calling with humility, courage, and purpose
Whether you are a Christian leader, a concerned believer, or someone longing for truth and unity in a broken world, Becoming Bridge Builders will challenge you to rise above fear, reject cultural chaos, and become an agent of reconciliation and transformation—right where God has placed you.
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About your host

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B. Keith Haney

I am B. Keith Haney, the Assistant to the President of Iowa District West for Missions, Human Care, and Stewardship. Drawn to Western Iowa by its inspiring mission opportunities, I dedicate myself to helping churches connect with the unconnected and disengaged in their communities. As a loving husband, father, and grandfather, I strive to create authentic spaces for conversation through my podcast and blog.