Rise & Shine with Adrienne Gold Davis

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the bad news in the world. Adrienne explains how to avoid this paralysis and reclaim your joy.

A sugary epiphany helped Adrienne Gold Davis reimagine all that Passover can be. Have a Happy Passover! If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What would it look like if your home felt genuinely peaceful, not just conflict-free, but whole? Adrienne Gold Davis and Jessica Berkowitz explore Shalom Bayit, the Jewish value of peace in the home, and what it actually takes to build a family life shaped by wholeness and intentional relationships. Through personal stories and Jewish wisdom, they unpack why the people we love most often see our roughest edges, and how to respond with more humility and care. You’ll walk away with practical tools for the real work of family life: apologizing out loud, choosing connection over ego, setting healthy boundaries, and pursuing peace even when you’re the only one ready to try. If you’ve ever felt frustrated at home, craved more calm in your family, or wondered how to model emotional maturity for your kids — this episode is for you. Hit follow so you never miss an episode of Rise and Shine. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Making a choice can feel terrifying. But not choosing is still a choice. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Deborah Gilboa and Adrienne Gold Davis explore the science of fear and the Jewish concept of courage. From the amygdala’s instinct for safety to the idea of "Holy Chutzpah", this episode reveals how small moments of awareness can transform the way we respond to life’s challenges. A conversation about resilience, motherhood, and the courage to live with intention. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

“Why can’t they just listen?” We’ve all thought it. But what if the moment that frustrates you most… is actually an invitation to grow? Momentum's Director of Education and Evaluation, Dr. Ronit Ziv Kreger shares research on why praising effort builds braver, more resilient children and how adopting a beginner’s mindset can transform the way we parent. Instead of: “She’s so smart.” Try: “I see how hard you worked.” Instead of: “They’re wrong.” Try: “What can I learn here?” This is what a growth mindset looks like in real life in our homes, in our relationships, in ourselves. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Enjoy this encore episode - Have a Happy Purim! Purim isn’t just for partying! It is also an opportunity to pursue peace and increase our generosity. Adrienne Gold Davis explains. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Adrienne welcomes back Jessica Berkowitz to explore a Jewish approach to gratitude that makes room for sadness, struggle, and unanswered questions. This episode pushes back on toxic positivity and offers a gentler, truer practice, one rooted in awareness, intention, and compassion. If gratitude feels hard right now, you’re not doing it wrong. This conversation meets you exactly where you are. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What does human dignity look like when it’s lived, not explained? In this episode of Rise and Shine with Adrienne Gold Davis, Adrienne shares a powerful experience from ADI Negev, an inclusive rehabilitation village in Israel. During a visit with Jewish educators, a six-year-old nonverbal child offered a wordless but unmistakable lesson in kevod habriyot, the Jewish value of honoring every human being. Through this moment, Adrienne reflects on the deeper meaning of the Shema, the idea of oneness, and how Jewish values are meant to show up in real life, not as concepts, but as actions. A grounding reminder that sometimes the clearest wisdom comes through presence, connection, and the simple act of reaching out a hand. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What is the real antidote to baseless hatred? In this episode, Adrienne Gold Davis is joined by educator and thought partner Jessica Berkowitz for a grounded, honest conversation about unity, disagreement, and what Jewish wisdom actually asks of us in divided times. Drawing on classical sources and lived experience, they explore why “baseless love” is not enough, how boundaries can be an expression of care, and what it means to practice unity without uniformity in our families, communities, and the Jewish people. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

When does nostalgia strengthen us, and when does it keep us stuck? Adrienne explores the pull of memory through everyday moments and classic Jewish texts, asking when looking back builds connection and hope and when it becomes an escape from the present. A reflective invitation to choose intention over habit and to live fully in the moment while staying rooted in what matters most. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What does it mean to remain faithful when life feels uncertain? Adrienne Gold Davis sits down with Momentum’s Founding Director, Lori Palatnik, for a thoughtful conversation about Emunah, not as blind belief, but as lived faithfulness rooted in responsibility, courage, and presence. In This Episode What Emunah really means beyond blind belief. Practical ways Jewish mothers can find strength and resilience in uncertain times. Reflections on leadership, responsibility, and presence from Lori Palatnik. How Jewish wisdom supports everyday challenges in family, community, and inner life. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

From creeping in the bushes to protect her child to learning the divine art of stepping back, Adrienne Gold Davis candidly shares her struggle with boundaries in parenting. Joined by Jessica Berkowitz, this deeply honest episode explores Jewish teachings on gevul (boundaries), eruv (communal space), and tzimtzum (divine contraction)—offering timeless wisdom for raising confident children with love, humility, and spiritual clarity. This is an encore presentation from our Momentum Speaks: Parenting series. As we revisit some of our most resonant parenting conversations, we’re bringing back episodes that continue to support Jewish mothers navigating family life with intention, strength, and love. We invite you to listen again or discover it for the first time. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What does it mean to speak about our children with honesty, love, and Jewish values? Adrienne Gold Davis and Jessica Berkowitz explore the fine line between storytelling and Lashon Hara (negative speech) as they unpack the power and purpose of our words. Together, they dive into parenting with intention, spiritual boundaries, and how to share our experiences without shame, offering Jewish wisdom to help mothers feel seen, supported, and not alone. This is an encore presentation from our Momentum Speaks: Parenting series. As we revisit some of our most resonant parenting conversations, we’re bringing back episodes that continue to support Jewish mothers navigating family life with intention, strength, and love. We invite you to listen again or discover it for the first time. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

It’s one thing to feel judged. It’s another when the judgment comes from your own people. In this raw and real episode, Adrienne Gold Davis and Jessica Berkowitz talk about the shame that creeps in when you feel like you're not Jewish enough, or not the right kind of Jewish. So if you’ve ever been side-eyed or second-guessed... this one’s for you. This is an encore presentation from our Momentum Speaks: Parenting series. As we revisit some of our most resonant parenting conversations, we’re bringing back episodes that continue to support Jewish mothers navigating family life with intention, strength, and love. We invite you to listen again or discover it for the first time. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What does it truly mean to succeed as a Jewish mother, and what if the definition of success needs a spiritual makeover? In this moving and deeply personal episode, Adrienne Gold Davis sits down with Jessica Berkowitz, Senior Education Specialist at Momentum, to challenge the narrow, often toxic standards of achievement that dominate our homes, schools, and social media feeds. This is an encore presentation from our Momentum Speaks: Parenting series. As we revisit some of our most resonant parenting conversations, we’re bringing back episodes that continue to support Jewish mothers navigating family life with intention, strength, and love. We invite you to listen again or discover it for the first time. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

In this encore episode of Rise and Shine, Adrienne Gold Davis explores a question Judaism takes seriously: How do we choose good when we’re capable of imagining both good and evil? Through a surprising story about “the sociopath test,” Adrienne unpacks how intelligence and intuition can be used to build or to harm – and why Jewish wisdom insists that what matters most is the path we choose. With teachings from Pirkei Avot, the concepts of Yetzer Hara and Yetzer HaTov, and the familiar “two wolves” parable, this episode offers a grounded, empowering reminder for Jewish women and mothers: small choices, repeated, shape the life you live. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What happens when emotional stress shows up not just in our hearts, but in our bodies? Adrienne explores the powerful connection between emotional climate, physical tension, and spiritual resilience through a Jewish lens. Drawing from personal experience, Jewish wisdom, and contemporary insights, Adrienne reflects on how stress, grief, and inner “cold” can cause us to hunch, brace, and armor ourselves, physically and emotionally. Set against the backdrop of winter and the light of Hanukkah, this episode invites you to consider how we guard our own inner light while tending to our families and communities. A quiet call to unclench, to breathe, and to remember that preserving your own light is not selfish, it is sacred work. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

At a gas-station pit stop in Israel, Adrienne witnessed an unexpected moment of unity and light. What begins as tension during a post-October 7 trip becomes a moving encounter between Jewish mothers and Bedouin Arab schoolgirls. A pink Dior handbag, a single compliment, and a shared desire for connection reveal a powerful lesson: light can break through even when we least expect it. This Hanukkah, discover what it really means to unmask the hidden sparks around us and within us. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Content Warning: This episode discusses addiction, alcoholism, mental health challenges, suicide, and generational trauma from the Holocaust. Carly's story is one of hope and recovery, but some listeners may find parts of the conversation emotionally challenging. This encore episode revisits one of our most meaningful conversations. Adrienne Gold Davis sits down with author, educator, and recovery advocate Carly Israel, whose honesty and courage continue to touch so many. Together, they explore Carly’s battle with alcoholism and mental health, her journey through motherhood, and the hard-earned wisdom she now shares with others. Her story offers strength and perspective for parents and loved ones supporting someone in struggle. They discuss the silence around addiction in Jewish families, the trauma carried by descendants of Holocaust survivors, and the awakening that comes with recovery. It is a conversation about survival, hope, and choosing to live with intention. At its heart, it reflects what it means to live wondrously. To find meaning in pain, purpose in truth, and resilience rooted in love. If Carly’s voice resonates with you, we invite you to join us as she speaks live during our upcoming Zoom webinar on December 4. Learn more and register here: https://momentumunlimited.org/boost-livingwondrously/ Order your copy of Momentum's new book, "The Art & Practice of Living Wondrously", today. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

In this deeply moving Rise & Shine episode, Adrienne Gold Davis sits down with Dr. Zohar Raviv, internationally recognized Jewish thought leader, educator, and Momentum’s Scholar in Residence, for a powerful exploration of Israel’s place in the Jewish story. Together, they illuminate the five landscapes through which Jews have understood Israel for thousands of years: the imagined, covenantal, remembered, lived, and envisioned land. Dr. Raviv shares why Israel is not a project of survival, but a project of revival, and how Jewish mothers play a central role in carrying this story forward. Rooted in warmth, depth, and clarity, this conversation invites each of us to see our connection to Israel not only through history, but through identity, responsibility, and love. Read Dr. Zohar's article referenced in the podcast here: https://theicenter.org/aleph_bet/eretz-medina-am-yisrael-navigation-multiple-landscapes/ The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

It's a new season of Rise & Shine! In this week's podcast, Adrienne shares a compelling parable about a rooftop, blessings, and awareness. Through Jewish wisdom and Torah commentary, she explores why we often overlook the quiet gifts in our lives, especially when faced with hardship. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Adrienne shares how, with introspection and grace, we can follow the golden rule, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.”

Adrienne shares how we can channel our “been there, done that” feelings in positive ways.

Adrienne shares how we can focus on the beauty around us rather than on ourselves. Discover more inspiration at momentumunlimited.org

Adrienne shares how we can bring together our diverse family members in beautiful ways. Discover more inspiration at momentumunlimited.org

From childhood reading to spiritual renewal, this episode explores how the Torah serves as the ultimate guide for living and rebuilding our inner worlds. Drawing on personal reflection, Jewish wisdom, and the story of Rabbi Akiva, we explore how Simchat Torah invites us to revisit our beginnings with fresh eyes. Discover how each year’s Torah cycle offers new insight into who we’ve become, and how teshuvah allows us to renovate our lives with grace and intention. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What does it mean to embrace aging with grace and gratitude? Adrienne explores the beauty of impermanence, the wisdom of our tradition, and the gift of choosing our own way as Jewish women. From Botox to Viktor Frankl, from Titanic metaphors to Torah, this episode invites you to find joy, meaning, and spiritual alignment in the temporary structures of our lives.

What if your flaws were not failures but divine invitations for growth? In this episode, Adrienne Gold Davis delves into the profound spiritual practices of the 10 Days of Repentance, spanning from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur. Through relatable stories and Jewish wisdom, she reveals how our “weeds”-those stubborn flaws we can’t seem to uproot —can become a source of holiness and transformation. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Adrienne Gold Davis explores the Jewish teaching of Maktim Refua Lamaka, the cure before the malady, and how Jewish women worldwide are stepping up with strength and solidarity in the aftermath of October 7th. From resilience to responsibility, discover how Jewish mothers are leading with courage, identity, and love. Momentum has spent 16+ years preparing mothers for this moment. Now, in just 36 hours, we will raise $1 million to empower Jewish mothers worldwide to strengthen their families, lead their communities, and shape the Jewish future. Every gift is matched. Your donation is instantly DOUBLED. GIVE. SHARE. RISE. Donate today >> https://causematch.com/Momentum2025

The shofar is more than a sound; it’s a call to new life. Discover how the High Holidays invite us to reset, rebirth, and plant seeds for the year ahead. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Ever feel like you're raising a child with a Maserati engine in a Volkswagen frame? Adrienne shares her own rebellious childhood and the lessons she has learned as a Jewish mother raising strong-willed children. Discover Torah-based parenting wisdom from Jewish thinkers on how to guide without controlling and love without losing yourself. The Rise & Shine Podcast Series is made possible by the generous support of Bonnie Vozar of Chicago, Illinois. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

What if your flaws were not obstacles, but sacred pathways to greatness? In this engaging conversation, Adrienne Gold Davis, a renowned speaker and author, discusses the unique insights of Jerusalem-based psychotherapist and author Chaya Lester, known for her work in spirituality and mental health, as they explore her essay, "The Art of Being Flawsome," featured in Momentum's new book, The Art & Practice of Living Wondrously. Together, they delve into: How Jewish teachings can help mothers embrace imperfection Resilience in the face of war, motherhood, and daily spiritual struggles The surprising Kabbalistic lesson behind why God made humans imperfect How to parent with compassion rather than control Why being "flawsome" may be the key to mental and spiritual health for Jewish women today Don't miss out on this transformative discussion that will empower you to embrace your imperfections and lead a more mentally and spiritually healthy life! And remember, by ordering your copy of The Art & Practice of Living Wondrously, you're taking the first step towards this transformation: https://go.momentumunlimited.org/livingwondrously.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Dr. Bruce Powell, joined by his children, Rebecca and Jonathan, shares powerful lessons on creating a culture of conversation within Jewish families. The Powells reveal practical strategies rooted in Jewish wisdom, like the PAVE method (Parental Actions, Values, Expectations, and Supper). This method is not just a theory, but a practical tool that you can use in your everyday life. Whether you're raising toddlers, teens, or young adults, this conversation offers timeless guidance for building strong, values-driven family bonds. Order the new Momentum book The Art and Practice of Living Wondrously, featuring the Powells' full essay, on Amazon today. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1592647111

Step into the mountains of Aspen and the depths of the soul with Adrienne Gold Davis as she reflects on where true spirituality begins in awe. Through personal stories, Torah insights, and a deep dive into Jewish tradition, this episode explores how cultivating awe can ground us in faith, purpose, and resilience as Jewish women and mothers.

Parenting doesn’t stop when your children leave home; it evolves. Adrienne Gold Davis shares the life-changing wisdom that helped her become a friend to her adult kids. Learn why “just look away” is the key to preserving dignity, building respect, and navigating this next chapter of motherhood with grace and boundaries.

Dr. Zohar Raviv of Taglit Birthright Israel joins Adrienne to challenge the lens of Jewish victimhood and reclaim a deeper story , one of joy, resilience, and purpose. From Zionism’s roots to identity in the modern world, this powerful conversation offers a fresh take on Jewish continuity.

In this heartfelt conversation, Adrienne Gold Davis and Momentum Founding Director, Lori Palatnik explore how unity, kindness, and personal growth become spiritual lifelines in moments of crisis. Drawing from Jewish values and personal stories, including a harrowing plane emergency, Lori shares insights on prayer, peace, and the profound impact of mitzvot. Together, they reflect on the current challenges facing Israel and the Jewish diaspora, the healing power of humility in relationships, and how intentional acts can offer protection, purpose, and renewed hope. Discover the power of wonder in this guide to living with depth, joy, and meaning! “You, me, and our entire generation of Jews need this book… You will find yourself tapping it time and again as a rich handbook for becoming a better parent, friend, student, and leader—Jewishly!” —Alan Morinis, Founder of The Mussar Institute, author of Everyday Holiness A must-have for your nightstand or gift list. Let this book serve as your guide to a life filled with wonder, meaning, and profound connection. Pre-order "The Art & Practice of Living Wondrously" today https://amzn.to/41JMsxC

What can the story of Israel teach us about raising resilient children?

How can we stay sane when opening our home to others?

What do Tevye, Ben Franklin, and Netflix have in common? The “Rise & Shine” podcast series has been made possible by the Zitelman Family Foundation’s generosity. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

How can we honor our parents – even when our lifestyle choices feel worlds apart? The “Rise & Shine” podcast series has been made possible by the Zitelman Family Foundation’s generosity. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Momentum Trip Leader Adrienne Gold Davis shares how to discover the unique essence in each person.

Laughter has an incredible way of lifting our souls in times of pain. But Jewish wisdom cautions: sometimes, the joke can go too far. The "Rise & Shine" podcast series has been made possible by the Zitelman Family Foundation's generosity. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Just because we’re afraid of saying the wrong thing doesn’t mean we shouldn’t speak at all. Here’s how to overcome the fear. The “Rise & Shine” podcast series has been made possible by the Zitelman Family Foundation’s generosity. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]

Does one need to be a good person to be a good teacher and leader? How much do character and personality factor into a person's leadership capacity? Adrienne investigates. If you love this episode of Rise & Shine, please subscribe, rate, and review. The “Rise & Shine” podcast series has been made possible by the Zitelman Family Foundation’s generosity. If you would like to sponsor an upcoming podcast, please email us at [email protected]