Ep 80: Habits of a Whole Heart with Arnie Herz and guest Rabbi Shalom Paltiel P3 on hmTv

Episode 80: Habits of a Whole Heart with Rabbi Shalom Paltiel (Part 3)
Hosted by Arnie Herz on hmTv

In this powerful third installment of Habits of a Whole Heart, host Arnie Herz and Rabbi Shalom Paltiel dive into the practical side of spirituality—examining how core Jewish habits and mitzvot, like observing Shabbat and giving tzedakah, serve as tools for inner liberation and wholeness.

Arnie shares his personal journey from a secular upbringing and a successful legal career to embracing a life rooted in Jewish practice and purpose. What begins as a conversation about routine becomes a profound exploration of how spiritual habits can transform everyday life, enhance relationships, deepen self-awareness, and even elevate professional success.

The episode also highlights the integration of physical and spiritual experiences in Judaism—contrasting and comparing them to Eastern traditions—and emphasizes the power of intentional living in today’s hyper-connected world. Through moving stories and deep reflections, Rabbi Paltiel and Arnie illuminate the path toward not just a full life, but a whole one.

Tune in for wisdom, warmth, and inspiration—and discover how ancient habits can spark modern transformation.

Transcript

Episode 80 of Habits of a Whole Heart with Arnie Herz and guest Rabbi Shalom Paltiel (Part 3) on hmTv:

Hello and thank you for joining me today. I’m your host, Arnie Herz, and on today’s episode of Habits of a Whole Heart on hmTv, my special guest, Rabbi Shalom Paltiel, joins me once again for the third part of our enriching series on cultivating a whole heart through a Jewish lens.

In our first session, we explored the concept of a whole heart—what it means from a philosophical and spiritual standpoint and how Godliness is at the root of this journey. The second episode centered on the nature of habits, the mitzvot, and how discipline and routine can bring about liberation rather than restriction.

Today, we go deeper—into the practical application of core Jewish mitzvot. We’re unpacking how these ancient practices, when performed consistently, offer not only spiritual alignment but also emotional and mental freedom. Rabbi Paltiel, thank you for being here again.

Rabbi Paltiel reflects on the power of Torah study and his daily 8:30 a.m. Zoom classes that ground spiritual relevance in the here and now. He reiterates how applying Torah values elevates everyday life and empowers individuals to express their godly soul.

He then flips the script, inviting me to share my own journey—from a secular upbringing and successful legal career to becoming Shomer Shabbat and embracing mitzvah observance. I speak about my early disconnection from Judaism and my spiritual quest that led me through yoga, meditation, and ultimately, back to a more profound understanding of Judaism.

The turning point came after a life-threatening health scare in college, which triggered a decades-long spiritual search. What began with Eastern traditions came full circle when I discovered the richness and relevance of Jewish spiritual practices. The key difference? Judaism doesn’t just elevate the soul—it honors the integration of the physical and spiritual selves.

Shabbat, for instance, is not about withdrawal but immersion—starting with a festive meal and continuing into soulful rest. It’s not about denial; it’s about intentional engagement.

We dive into how habits like observing Shabbat and keeping kosher enhance—not hinder—our lives. I share how Shabbat has given me renewed energy, creativity, and deeper connections, both personally and professionally. From gaining trust with high-profile clients to forging meaningful moments with my daughter in Berlin, these “restrictions” have become profound opportunities.

Rabbi Paltiel and I also explore the compatibility and contrast between Judaism and Eastern spiritual paths. We agree that true religion seeks oneness—unity with self, others, and the divine. But we also note that Judaism emphasizes a personal, engaged relationship with a conscious God, guiding and aware.

We end the episode with reflections on choosing a “whole life” over just a “full life.” Liberation isn’t found in more distractions—it’s found in conscious, sacred choices that align with who we truly are.

Thank you again to Rabbi Paltiel for this soul-expanding conversation. To all our listeners, may you find the habits that help your whole heart shine.

Be sure to subscribe, share, and stay tuned for more episodes of Habits of a Whole Heart on hmTv. Until next time—take care and be well.

4o

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