The Rabbi & the Other Guy

How One Person Can Make a Difference with Jeannie Opdyke Smith

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Jeannie Opdyke Smith joins Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket to share the remarkable legacy of her mother, Irene Gut Opdyke — a Polish Catholic nurse who hid Jews in plain sight during WWII.
When Irene died, Jeannie discovered 11 unfulfilled speaking invitations and decided to honor them herself. That single choice launched her own mission: delivering 150‑plus talks a year and fostering more than 60 children.
Tune in for an incredible conversation about moral courage, intergenerational storytelling, and the power of small acts that can change lives.

Jewish Identity, Israel, and the "Esther Moment" with Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove

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In our newest episode of The Rabbi & the Other Guy, Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket sit down with Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove — Park Avenue Synagogue’s senior rabbi and author of For Such a Time as This — to talk about Jewish identity after October 7, generational tensions around Israel, and why this might just be our modern-day "Esther moment."
Rabbi Cosgrove shares the story that changed his life, challenges the way we engage Gen Z, and offers a powerful reminder: sometimes, all it takes is a simple Shabbat invitation to shift someone’s future.

Bridging Divides with Yakir Englander

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In our latest episode of The Rabbi & the Other Guy, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket meet with Yakir Englander, Senior National Director of Leadership Programs at the Israeli-American Council, to explore his journey from a deeply religious upbringing to becoming a leader in interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding. Yakir shares how his personal
experiences shaped his commitment to fostering empathy and understanding across cultures.
 
Tune in as our hosts and Yakir discuss the complexities of Jewish identity in the modern world, the challenges of activism, and the power of human
connection in creating meaningful change.

Reclaiming Zionism with Professor Gil Troy

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Rabbi Daniel Septimus and Dr. Matt Schocket sit down with Professor Gil Troy — author and Senior Fellow in Zionist Thought at the Jewish People Policy Institute.
Together, they explore loss, resilience, and the enduring joy of the Israeli spirit, while debating the evolving meaning of Zionism and what it means to be both Jewish and democratic. From transformative Birthright experiences to candid discussions about family, military service, and community, this conversation offers a unique window into the challenges and hope shaping Jewish identity today.

What Does it Mean to be a Progressive Zionist Today?

In this episode, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket sit with Nomi Colton-Max, co-chair of the New Jewish Narrative. Nomi brings insight into the evolving landscape of Progressive Zionism.
Together, Nomi and our hosts discuss what it means to be both progressive and Zionist in today’s world. They unpack Progressive Zionism ideology, equal rights, shared resources, and connection to the Land of Israel.
Join us for a thoughtful conversation on what Progressive Zionism means in practice today.

Medicine Under Fire – Dr. Tsvi Sheleg on Innovation and Resilience

In this episode of The Rabbi and the Other Guy, Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus and Dr. Matt Shocket welcome Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Senior Physician in the Ophthalmology Department and the Deputy Director General at the Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, Israel. Once considered a radical idea, its underground facilities have saved countless lives.
Dr. Sheleg shares how real-time medical technology, mass casualty preparedness, and swift evacuation plans keep patients and doctors safe. He also discusses Israel’s humanitarian missions, treating wounded soldiers and refugees—proving that medicine knows no borders.
Tune in for an inspiring look at resilience, innovation, and the unwavering commitment to saving lives.

Diaspora Jews, Israel, and the Z3 Project

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In our newest episode of The Rabbi and the Other Guy, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schocket sit down with Zack Bodner—founder of the Z3 Project and CEO of the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto—to unpack the evolving relationship between Diaspora Jews and Israel. How did the Z3 Project come to life? What is Zionism 3.0? What’s driving the growing disconnect? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of unity between Diaspora Jewry and Israel.
Want to dive more into the conversation? Register for Austin Z3, happening February 22-24, at www.shalomaustin.org/austinz3! 

Dr. Matt Schocket's Medical Mission to Israel

In this special episode of The Rabbi and the Other Guy, Dr. Matt Schocket shares his firsthand experience volunteering on a medical mission to Israel during a critical time. Despite uncertainty around a ceasefire, Matt journeyed to northern Israel to assist at the Galilee Medical Center. The mission was organized by the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), Partnership2Gether, and Jewish Federations of North America and brought physicians to support the ongoing medical needs of the region.
This episode highlights the resilience of Israel's medical community and the profound impact of volunteer efforts during a time of crisis.
Tune in for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation about medical aid in wartime and the spirit of Jewish pride and solidarity.

Jews & Hanukkah Today

In the final episode of 2024, Rabbi Septimus and Dr. Schockett are joined by Rabbi Dan Ain, Shalom Austin's Parent Life Educator. Together, they explore the rich history of Hanukkah and delve into its timeless lessons, drawing connections between the festival's story and the challenges of our modern world.
Have a wonderful Hanukkah and New Year! We'll be back in 2025! 

What is the Significance of Yizkor? Part Two

In Part Two of our 'What is the Significance of Yizkor?' episode, we continue our heartfelt conversation with Rabbi Neil Blumofe, Senior Rabbi at Congregation Agudas Achim. Together, we delve into the meaning of Yizkor, reflect on navigating the High Holy Days in the wake of October 7, and explore Rabbi Blumofe’s thoughtful approach to adapting Yizkor each year to meet the community's evolving needs.