A Leaflet Drops in Shul

In the final episode, Rabbi David Minkus reflects on the central tension of the series: how do we hold boundaries that are not shaped by fear and gatekeeping? With some familiar voices, and a couple new ones, David explores what it means to draw lines with empathy, to lead with care, and to imagine a Jewish future rooted not in judgment, but in dignity, love, and trust. Do you have your own You Are Doing It Wrong story? Write to us or send us a voice memo at hello@mercaz.community.

In this episode, Rabbi David Minkus speaks with rabbis Lizzi Heydemann and Jess Minnen and journalist Jodi Rudoren to explore the roots of the “you’re doing it wrong” phenomenon in Jewish life. Is it about protecting tradition? Maintaining control? Preserving identity? Together, they explore the cultural, historical, and emotional forces that shape this deeply embedded instinct. Do you have your own You Are Doing It Wrong story? Write to us or send us a voice memo at hello@mercaz.community.

In this opening episode, host Rabbi David Minkus begins a conversation that’s long overdue in the Jewish community. We hear stories from everyday Jews who were told, sometimes subtly, sometimes bluntly, that they were doing Judaism wrong. These stories are vulnerable, personal, and heartfelt- and, sadly, far from unique.

Another week passes and David finally sits down with the person who set this all in motion. Now that everyone has shared their piece, it’s your turn. What did you take away from the story? Sometimes all we can do is listen, and the real change comes later. Send your thoughts or a voice memo to hello@mercaz.community. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to make sure you stay up-to-date on all upcoming events and content releases.

For Rabbi David Minkus, the days after October 7th were as disorienting as they were heartbreaking, but one thing was for sure. Being in shul, with fellow Jews, felt right. Until a slip of paper broke the illusion.If you’d like to sponsor an upcoming episode, email us at hello@mercaz.community. You can also subscribe to our newsletter list to make sure you stay up-to-date on all upcoming events and content releases.