What Reform Judaism Really Means — A Conversation with Ellen Zieselman - E7

Victoria interviews longtime Jewish educator Ellen Zieselman about what Reform Judaism means in practice. Ellen traces her own Jewish journey from suburban New York to Santa Fe, explaining how Reform emphasizes informed choice: keep the ethical commandments and thoughtfully interpret ritual laws. They discuss ritual vs. ethics, kashrut, and how Jewish practice can be personally meaningful rather than rote. Ellen also shares stories about teaching teens, the power of communal singing, and why community—whether in a building or beyond it—is the lifeblood of Jewish life. Practical, warm, and conversational, the episode centers on wrestling with tradition rather than abandoning it. Resources: Sarah Hurwitz's book - Here All Along: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43289179-here-all-along What is Reform Judaism- https://reformjudaism.org/what-is-reform-judaism Connect with Victoria Lyon on Instagram Podcast page: @sweatshalom Coaching offerings: @lyonstrong