Connecting Generations Through Stories: Rabbi Michael Zedek’s Approach – Seekers of Meaning 2/6/2026
On this week’s episode of the Seekers of Meaning TV Show and Podcast, Rabbi Address welcomes Rabbi Michael Zedek to discuss his new book, People Are Like: Stories for Young Readers and Readers Who Wish to Stay Young.
The conversation explores the joy of storytelling, particularly in the context of teaching and connecting with younger generations. Rabbi Zedek shares insights on the importance of stories in conveying moral lessons and fostering empathy, drawing from his experiences as a rabbi and educator. He emphasizes that stories can be a powerful tool for understanding complex themes such as happiness, bullying, and the significance of human relationships.
Throughout the discussion, Rabbi Zedek reflects on the creative process behind his book, the whimsical illustrations by Isabel Tejada, and how each story serves as a standalone lesson. The episode highlights the potential of storytelling to bridge generational gaps and promote meaningful conversations about life’s challenges. As they delve into specific stories from the book, both rabbis underscore the importance of compassion and connection in a world that often feels isolating, especially for the elderly and youth alike.
About the book
“People Are Like …” redwood trees? Dogs? Porcupines, even? Rabbi Michael Zedek shares how in a refreshing, humorous style that connects with young readers and their families. The Brooklyn-born master storyteller has been a featured speaker globally, including TEDx. His natural wit and generational wisdom will engage children and adults in this slim volume full of memorable life lessons. The whimsical illustrations add magical notes to complement the content. “People Are Like …” will inspire meaningful conversation to remind us that we still have room and time to grow no matter our age. Michael’s collection of tales plants seeds for character-building and self-discovery that teach us to reflect on what we can learn from the mundane moments too often overlooked.
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About the Guest
Rabbi Michael Zedek
Brooklyn-born Michael Zedek is rabbi emeritus of both B’nai Jehudah (Kansas City) and Emanuel Congregation (Chicago). He also served as the chief executive officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati (JFC); during his tenure, the Federation received national awards for innovative fundraising and programming. A dedicated community activist, scholar, and teacher Rabbi Zedek has received numerous awards including a Fulbright-Hays Grant. He was also honored by the National Conference of Christian and Jews. He is the founder and co-host of weekly radio show “Religion on the Line,” and a regular presenter at Rancho La Puerta, the oldest and most renowned spirituality spa center in North America.
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