Responsa Radio

I was surprised to hear recently that Jews are not allowed to neuter pets. Is that true? What is that about, where does it come from, and are there any ways around it, given that most people I know have pets that aren’t able to reproduce?
Source sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/711708
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Music featured in this episode: Vinyl Stripes by Pretty Kitty

Is there a Jewish obligation to support your Jewish-owned local businesses? If prices are higher or the store is farther away, how much effort or expense does halakha expect? 
Source sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/711520
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Music featured in this episode: Salesman by Ted Hoagland

The priestly blessing (Birkat Kohanim) is a powerful moment in Jewish communal prayer. Traditionally performed by kohanim, it raises important questions about lineage, ritual roles, and gender equality. Can women offer this blessing to their communities? How can we think about this ritual in a gender egalitarian context?
Source sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/710207
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Music featured in this episode: Dear Daughter by Rebekah McLeod

A long-standing mourning practice is to cover mirrors during shiva. But what happens when shiva takes place on Zoom? Does seeing yourself on screen raise the same concern as an uncovered mirror? This episode explores the meaning behind the custom of covering mirrors and how Jewish practice adapts to new technologies of communal presence. 
Source sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/709534
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Music featured in this episode: Mirror by Mike Schmid

What does it mean to serve as shaliach tzibbur—the representative of a community in prayer—if you struggle with belief in God? This episode explores the halakhic and theological dimensions of a question that sits at the heart of Jewish spiritual life. Does disbelief disqualify someone from leading davening, or does the act of prayer itself create a space that transcends personal theology?
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Music featured in this episode: Shema by Saul Kaye