CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF SHAPING THE MARKETPLACE OF IDEAS MY SPEAKER LIST () 646.227.4900

Joseph Telushkin

  • Widely Acclaimed Authority on Judaism & Ethics
  • Award-Winning Author of 'Words That Hurt, Words That Heal'
  • Named one of Talk Magazine's "50 Best Speakers in the United States"

Spiritual leader, scholar, ethicist, and acclaimed author Rabbi Joseph Telushkin was named by Talk magazine as one of the 50 best speakers in the United States. Rabbi Telushkin, hailed by Jewish Week as “America’s rabbi,” is a renaissance figure, whose reputation extends well beyond the Jewish community. He is an associate of the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership and a former director of education at the non-denominational Brandeis-Bardin Institute. Telushkin is also a Senior Associate with CLAL and is a member of the board of directors of the Jewish Book Council. He has been on the Newsweek list of America's 50 most influential rabbis since 1997 and is a Manhattan Jewish Hall of Fame Inductee.

A penetrating speaker with the timing of a standup comic, his talks challenge even as they entertain. One thing is certain: you will walk out of Telushkin’s speech different than when you walked in.

 
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Past Hosts Include:
  • Adat Shalom Synagogue
  • Congregation Shaarey Zedek
  • United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien
  • Herbert Tarr North Shore Institute
  • Congregation Beth El
  • The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston
  • Cleveland Public Library
  • Adath Israel of Lower Merion
  • Jewish Federation of Reading
  • Jewish Federation of Tulsa
We are so very grateful that your participation in our Interfaith Lecture Series helped us to honor the inauguration of the Everett Jewish Life Center in the most auspicious way. Your presence and gifts of intellect, wisdom, and experience were blessed components of this very special week and time in Chautauqua's history!
More rave reviews

"Everything went extremely well. I received positive feedback from everyone that attended each of his presentations. I especially appreciated that he spoke with the teens. It was very interesting to listen to their interaction and the answers to his questions."

-Adat Shalom Synagogue

"Rabbi Telushkin was great. Everyone loved him and can't wait to bring him back."

-Congregation Shaarey Zedek

"It was an amazing event! People were very happy! We were the only city to have Shabbat Across America combining all Jewish groups/denominations. We had 340 people attend! Rabbi Telushkin was a big draw and people enjoyed him very much. I attended the Teen event; he interacted very well with the teens, they really liked it. The Sunday brunch and Saturday lunch went well also. He spoke beautifully each time. He seemed to enjoy himself as well."

-United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien

"The event was very successful. Rabbi Telushkin was informative, witty and captivating. "

-Herbert Tarr North Shore Institute

"It was an absolutely terrific event, and exceeded our expectations on every level, including 3 times the attendance we anticipated. Many thanks for all your help. I've worked with HWA before, and I must tell you, it's a wonderful experience each time!"

-Herbert Tarr North Shore Institut

"Yesterday's lecture was a wonderful event in every respect. There was a very large attendance and everyone who spoke to me afterwards, and there were many, raved about Rabbi Telushkin's talk, which was erudite, meaningful, charming and engaging. He is a remarkable speaker and a remarkable individual. "

-Congregation Beth El

"Joseph Telushkin was FANTASTIC! The entire audience loved him. He was funny, informative, and just plain good! "

-The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

"In the short period of time I spent with Rabbi Telushkin I can only say that he is one of the most genuine individuals I have met in my life, he walks as he talks and was extremely gracious with every person he met during his visit. I cannot tell you how honored all of us are to have met him. His speech was by far the best I have heard in my 10 years at the Library ... After speaking with my staff we all agreed that his message would be well received in a wide array of audiences. Young and old regardless of faith can learn a great deal from his words. "

-Cleveland Public Library

"We had such a wonderful weekend with Rabbi Telushkin! Besides being an incredible scholar he is also a kind and compassionate man and our congregation loved him! All events were more than well attended. We exceeded our attendance goals, especially Sunday morning where we expected 100 people for breakfast and got 300. The Rabbi's presentations followed a logical arc through the weekend and were well received. He always left time for Q&A which the audience really enjoyed. And the Rabbi spent a lot of time with people in private conversation, which was very much appreciated."

-Adath Israel of Lower Merion

"Rabbi was wonderful. In addition to being one of the 'best' presenters I have ever had the pleasure of hearing at handling Q&A, his lecture was captivating and thought provoking. He is very user-friendly. I think most of us were self-evaluating our own behaviors as a result of his comments. The theatre was nearly full, at least 250 people. Off stage, he was a delight as well. Truly a wise man!"

-Jewish Federation of Reading

"This was the best Frank Lecture yet, and certainly the biggest audience we've had in five years--200 people on an evening with competing events in Tulsa. Joseph did a terrific job--I've heard effusive praise from many of my friends and colleagues--and it was a great pleasure for me to host him. In sum, the event was a complete success in every respect. I don't know how we are going to follow Joseph's act, but it is good problem to have."

-Jewish Federation of Tulsa

"He was WONDERFUL! We were receiving calls all day yesterday as to how much they enjoyed hearing Rabbi Telushkin. He mingled with the guests. Even though he autographed his books prior to everyone’s arrival he then offered to personalize them on their way out. His presentation was interactive which I believe this group enjoyed. Thanks again for the recommendation. It worked out very well. "

-Jewish Federation of Palm Beach

"I just wanted to let you know how special your presence made our Annual Meeting. All in attendance were inspired by your words of hope. The combination of texts and quotes from Jewish scholars peppered with personal anecdotes made for an evening as entertaining as it was educational."

-Jewish Community Federation of Cleveland
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Renowned theologian Joseph Telushkin's "A Rebbe for the World" - Get Sharable Link
Talks & Conversations with Joseph Telushkin
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A Conversation with Rabbi Telushkin

In this engaging and enlightening conversation, RABBI JOSEPH TELUSHKIN offers a unique perspective on timeless wisdom and its relevance to modern life. With humor, insight, and the ability to make complex concepts accessible, Rabbi Telushkin invites audiences to reflect on their values while exploring the rich traditions that continue to shape our understanding of human behavior and community.

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The New American Judaism

As one of the most influential voices in contemporary Judaism, RABBI JOSEPH TELUSHKIN explores the evolving landscape of Jewish life in America. Drawing from historical insights and modern cultural trends, he offers a compelling analysis of where American Judaism is headed and what it means for both Jews and society at large.

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Optimism and Positive Thinking

RABBI JOSEPH TELUSHKIN brings ancient wisdom and modern psychology together in this uplifting talk on optimism and the power of positive thinking. With a focus on resilience, gratitude, and finding joy in everyday life, Rabbi Telushkin offers practical advice for anyone seeking to lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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Five Things That Can Change Your Life

In this informative talk, RABBI JOSEPH TELUSHKIN shares his perspective on how small changes in our daily lives can lead to big transformations. Rabbi Telushkin provides a framework for five things we can all do to improve our relationships, health, and overall well-being starting today.

Books by Joseph Telushkin
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Biography
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