Épisodes

  • Ha’azinu to Yom Kippur: Teshuvah Through Shema (Parsha Power: Haazinu)

    Ha’azinu to Yom Kippur: Teshuvah Through Shema (Parsha Power: Haazinu)
    Oct 1 2025
    In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Ha’azinu (Deuteronomy 32), a prophetic song read on the Shabbos following Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (September 20-21, 2025). He connects the parsha’s themes to the spiritual preparation for Yom Kippur, emphasizing teshuvah (repentance) and the bedtime Shema as a daily practice to align with divine purpose. Key points include:Parshas Ha’azinu Context: The parsha, a song foretelling the Jewish people’s future, includes a verse (Deuteronomy 32:20) about afflictions against enemies, which Rabbi Wolbe interprets spiritually as the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). He cites the Talmud (Rabbi Yitzchak) that reciting the bedtime Shema protects against spiritual “demons” or negative impulses, linking this to the parsha’s message.Yom Kippur Connection: Yom Kippur, beginning with Kol Nidre on September 20, 2025, is a time of purity and unlimited potential through teshuvah. Rabbi Wolbe highlights four designated times for repentance: the Ten Days of Repentance (culminating in Yom Kippur), Erev Rosh Chodesh (Yom Kippur Katan), Erev Shabbos, and before sleep (bedtime Shema). These moments mirror Yom Kippur’s introspective judgment.Bedtime Shema’s Power: The bedtime Shema, distinct from morning and evening Shema, is a “micro Yom Kippur” where one forgives others, confesses sins, and seeks divine mercy, as outlined in its prayer text. Covering the eyes during Shema symbolizes focusing spiritual vision over physical distractions, aligning with Yom Kippur’s theme of self-accountability (chosem yad kol adam bo, “the signature of every person” in the book of life).Practical Application: Rabbi Wolbe proposes a resolution for the new year: recite the bedtime Shema nightly, reflecting for five seconds on daily actions to strengthen good deeds and correct misdeeds. This practice protects against negative influences, fosters teshuvah, and aligns one’s life with Hashem’s will (Shema Yisrael, declaring Hashem’s oneness).Anecdotes and Insights: He shares a story of a recovering addict who transformed after seeing his potential in a mirror, paralleling the introspective power of the bedtime Shema. Rabbi Wolbe critiques modern distractions (e.g., smartphones) and the tendency to judge others, urging listeners to focus on self-improvement and forgiveness, especially for Yom Kippur._____________This episode (Ep 7.49) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Haazinu is dedicated in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 30, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 1, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Deuteronomy, #YomKippur, #self-reflection, #forgiveness, #Shema, #yetzerhara, #Teshuvah, #repentance, #Hashem, #accountability, #microYomKippur, #self-check-in, #personalgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
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    25 min
  • Transform Your Life (Parsha In-Focus: Haazinu)

    Transform Your Life (Parsha In-Focus: Haazinu)
    Sep 29 2025

    Discover the timeless wisdom of Parshas Ha'azinu and how it can transform your life with blessings and divine communication. We explore the meaning behind the heavens and the earth as eternal witnesses to God's covenant, emphasizing their role in rewarding and punishing the Jewish people. Through personal stories and reflections, we illustrate how the Torah remains a living, powerful force, guiding us in our daily lives. Learn how engaging deeply with the Torah can bring unparalleled blessings and maintain your direct connection with Hashem.

    This episode also highlights the lessons of modesty and integrity, inspired by a remarkable woman from the Talmud whose actions were always observed by the heavens and the earth. We stress the importance of consistent Torah study, even dedicating just a small amount of time each day, and how it can provide guidance for all aspects of life. As we approach Shabbos and the new year, we encourage you to commit to Torah learning, wishing everyone blessings, success, good health, and peace in Israel. Join us for an uplifting and inspiring journey filled with Hashem's presence and blessings.
    _____________
    This episode (Ep 6.51) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Ha'azinu is dedicated in Honor of Eli Banks & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

    • Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
      https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

    Recorded in the Torchwood Center - Levin Family Studio to a live audience on October 1, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 2, 2024
    _____________
    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
    _____________
    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

    • NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    _____________
    EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
    _____________

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    23 min
  • 5.10 Parshas Haazinu Review: The Divine Symphony of World Events

    5.10 Parshas Haazinu Review: The Divine Symphony of World Events
    Sep 28 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.10) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Haazinu offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Bruce & Eliana Schimmel!

    00:00 Introduction
    00:10 Parsha Summary
    07:33 Important Lessons Segment

    Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
    https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

    *****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded Live in the TORCH Centre - Studio B from a live audience presentation on September 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas
    Released as Podcast on September 8, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    29 min
  • Moshe’s Last Day Shocker: Why the Torah Changed Everything! (Parsha Power: Vayeilech)

    Moshe’s Last Day Shocker: Why the Torah Changed Everything! (Parsha Power: Vayeilech)
    Sep 26 2025
    In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Vayelech, a concise 70-verse portion detailing the final day of Moshe’s life, where he writes 13 Torah scrolls—one for each of the 12 tribes and one for the Ark—to guide the Jewish people as they enter the Promised Land. Rabbi Wolbe notes the Torah’s unique status as a divine document, identical worldwide, unlike other religious texts with multiple versions, emphasizing its public revelation at Sinai, acknowledged by other faiths. He explains that the Torah, given as a manual for living in Israel, was completed just before entry to underscore its applicability there, with rabbinic observance mandated outside Israel to maintain readiness. Moshe’s leadership transition to Joshua is highlighted as a model of responsible succession, ensuring stability. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the Ten Days of Repentance, urging listeners to demonstrate change through actions like adopting stringencies (e.g., Pas Yisroel, eating only Jewish-baked bread), as beginnings set the foundation for future success, akin to laying pure foundations for a child’s psychology or Noah’s care for the lion. He emphasizes Hashem’s promise (Deuteronomy 31:6) to never forsake the Jewish people, citing their resilience despite historical persecution and their unparalleled contributions to society, as evidenced by America’s blessings for supporting Israel. Rabbi Wolbe encourages embracing the Torah’s guidance, living with Shabbos’ sanctity, and recognizing Hashem’s protection, concluding with a call for a meaningful Shabbos and anticipation of the Third Temple. Addressing an audience clarification, he likens the Torah to a souvenir of Sinai’s revelation, encapsulating 613 mitzvahs to reconnect with that divine moment._____________This episode (Ep 7.48) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeilech is dedicated in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 26, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Deuteronomy, #Moshe, #LandofIsrael, #PublicRevelation, #MountSinai, #UN, #Shabbos, #Sabbath, #DivineGift, #Family, #Community, #God ★ Support this podcast ★
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    43 min
  • 5.9 Parshas Vayeilech Review: Moshe's Final Words, Spiritual Growth and the Resonance of Torah

    5.9 Parshas Vayeilech Review: Moshe's Final Words, Spiritual Growth and the Resonance of Torah
    Sep 22 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.9) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeilech offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Peter & Becky Botvin!

    00:00 Introduction
    00:10 Parsha Summary
    03:55 Important Lessons Segment

    Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
    https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

    *****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded Live in the TORCH Centre - Studio B from a live audience presentation on September 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas
    Released as Podcast on September 8, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    20 min
  • Equality in Faith (Parsha In-Focus: Nitzavim-Vayeilech)

    Equality in Faith (Parsha In-Focus: Nitzavim-Vayeilech)
    Sep 19 2025

    How does the concept of equality shape our spiritual responsibilities? Join us as we reflect on the profound themes of Parsha Nitzavim- Vayelech, where Moshe gathers the entire Jewish people to renew their covenant with Hashem. We delve into the powerful message that every individual, regardless of rank or background, shares equal responsibility in observing the commandments. With the specter of the 98 curses from the previous portion looming large, Moshe reassures the people of Hashem's unwavering commitment and love, reminding us that the journey towards fulfilling His will is a universal obligation.

    In another touching segment, we explore the value of hard work and dedication in our spiritual lives. Drawing an evocative parallel to a sweat-soaked yarmulke, we reflect on how our sincere efforts and perseverance are cherished by Hashem, much like a sports fan treasures a player's sweat-drenched jersey. As we prepare for Shabbos, let's take a moment to appreciate our collective spiritual journey and the covenant we share with the Divine. Wishing everyone a Shabbos filled with reflection, commitment, and renewed spiritual strength.
    _____________
    This episode (Ep 6.50) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Nitzavim-Vayeilech is dedicated in Honor of Ari Weber & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

    • Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
      https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

    Recorded in the Torchwood Center - Levin Family Studio to a live audience on September 24, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 26, 2024
    _____________
    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
    _____________
    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

    • NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    _____________
    EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
    _____________

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

    ★ Support this podcast ★
    Voir plus Voir moins
    20 min
  • 5.8 Parshas Nitzavim Review: Jewish Faith, Torah and Building Community in the Modern Age

    5.8 Parshas Nitzavim Review: Jewish Faith, Torah and Building Community in the Modern Age
    Sep 18 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.8) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Nitzavim offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Miriam Wolbe on her Bas Mitzvah!

    00:00 Introduction
    00:10 Parsha Summary
    04:43 Important Lessons Segment

    Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
    https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

    *****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
    Thank you!

    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

    Recorded Live in the TORCH Centre - Studio B from a live audience presentation on September 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas
    Released as Podcast on September 6, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
    Voir plus Voir moins
    34 min
  • The Truth Shall Set You Free: Aligning with Hashem’s Truth (Parsha Power: Nitzavim)

    The Truth Shall Set You Free: Aligning with Hashem’s Truth (Parsha Power: Nitzavim)
    Sep 17 2025
    In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Nitzavim, which always precedes Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing the theme of standing before Hashem in judgment, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 29:9, where "Atem Nitzavim" (you are standing) signals the collective accountability of all Israel. He notes the deliberate separation from the 98 curses in the prior portion (Ki Tavo), described as "100 minus 2" to avoid proximity to Rosh Hashanah, including sins like cursing parents or misleading the vulnerable. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of the Chose of Lublin advising a sinner to commit to truth as repentance, illustrating how truth, reflected in the rearranged letters of "Atem" to form "Emet" (truth), aligns one with Hashem’s essence, as affirmed in the Shema’s declaration of Hashem as truth. He explains that truth, distinct from beauty in the 15 praises following Shema (from "Emet" to "beautiful"), is powerful yet not always pleasant, requiring careful delivery to avoid harm, as exemplified by Moshe’s gentle reprimands and personal anecdotes about sensitive truth-telling. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the introspective preparation for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, urging listeners to confront their true selves in the mirror, as inspired by a friend’s transformative moment of self-awareness in recovery, to recognize their potential and responsibility to live purposefully, aligning with Hashem’s belief in their unique contribution to the world._____________This episode (Ep 7.47) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Nitzavim is dedicated in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 17, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Deuteronomy, #honesty, #self-reflection, #commitment, #truth, #self-belief, #responsibility, #personalgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★
    Voir plus Voir moins
    20 min