Michael Franco

Parashat Bo 2021: Larger than the Self

What is the meaning of life? In this podcast, we take on this daunting question in the context of the radical shift occurring in ancient Egypt as told in Parashat Bo.

Parashat Vayhi 2020: Meeting Hate with Love

In this week's podcast, we probe the concepts of compassion and forgiveness, learning new lessons regarding the need for a second forgiveness scene in this week's Parasha.

Hanukkah 2020: How the Light Gets in

In this podcast, we connect Parashat Vayyesheb and the theme of Hanukkah, noticing the importance of an unwavering sense of identity.

Parashat Hayye Sarah 2020: Eulogy for a Giant

In this podcast, we reflect on the indelible faith of Rabbi Sacks and Abraham Abinu alike.

Sukkot 2020: Be Like Water

In this podcast, we explain the meaning of the water ceremony of Sukkot, noticing that it points to some of the most fundamental ontological questions of life.

Yom Kippur 2020: Spiritual Nourishment

In this podcast, we explore Isaiah 51 and delve into the inner life of the soul that we are meant to cultivate on Yom Kippur.

Spiritual Living: A Practical Guide: Part 2

In this class, we continue to dive deep into the 10 tenets of a mature spiritual life according to Jack Kornfield's A Path with Heart. We take notice of the connections to Jewish tradition, appreciating that modern spiritual wisdom is often in line with ancient lessons.

A Practical Guide to Spiritual Living

In this podcast, Part 1 of 2, we discuss Jack Kornfield's 10 tenets of a mature spiritual life from his book "A Path with Heart." We show that Judaism contains many of the same principles and we notice when and how Judaism seems to diverge from the modern wisdom of today.

Debate with Morris Kishk: The Value of Kohanim

In this special podcast, I sit down with Morris Kishk to debate the benefits and detriments to having a Priesthood in Israel. You won't want to miss this one!

Parashat Emor Class 2020: About Time: Between Shabbat and Coronavirus

In this week's class, we explore the importance of Shabbat and its deeper meaning. This proves extra important during the time of Coronavirus, where every day spent at home has a Shabbat-like feel.