A conversation with Bracha Poliakoff, co-author of the groundbreaking book Reclaiming Dignity, exploring the deep, spiritual meaning of Tzniut in Judaism. Far from being just a dress code, this episode explores Tzniut as a powerful expression of dignity, internality, and self-respect for both men and women. We discuss halachic sources, misconceptions around modesty, and why more is not always better in this sensitive and central Jewish value.Bracha Poliakoff, LCSW-C, is a licensed clinical social worker, speaker, and writer. She currently serves as the founder and director of continuing education at Bright Ideas Continuing Education, providing high-quality programs for mental health professionals in the United States and Canada. Bracha has a strong commitment to Jewish education, having taught Torah to high schoolers and adults in various settings, founded a number of Jewish learning initiatives, and co-authoring Reclaiming Dignity: A Guide to Tzniut for Men and Women. As a passionate member of the Orthodox community, she actively gives back and makes a difference, including serving on the boards of Keneseth Beth Israel (Richmond, VA) and the Women’s Institute of Torah/Mesorah Baltimore (Baltimore, MD). Bracha is also committed to personal and professional development, having participated in The Associated’s Young Leadership Council, Orthodox Union’s Women’s Initiative Leadership Summit, and the Orthodox Leadership Project. She lives in Baltimore, MD, with her husband and three children. Bracha can be contacted at
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[email protected] support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Sneak Peek 00:34 Host’s Intro02:35 Welcome Bracha03:33 Why Write a Book on Tznius? 08:10 The Importance of Women’s Voices in the Conversation About Tzniut11:00 Is Tzniut for Men?13:07 A Torah Source for Men's Tzniut: Dignity in War16:07 The Parts of Tzniut That No One Will Ever See18:10 Shifting My Own Experience of Tzniut21:36 Removing the Judgment and Pressure 24:08 Are Introverts More Tzniut?28:37 The Difference Between Erva and Tzniut30:11 Do Women Dress Tzniut for Men?35:03 The Negative Impacts of Overemphasizing External Modesty36:21 Mutual Respect Between Men and Women 38:23 Excessive Modesty Can Sexualize Women39:26 More is Not Always Better41:21 Women's Pictures in Magazines46:00 The Cost of Exclusion50:32 When I Didn't Want My Own Picture Published 52:00 Determining Your Own Boundaries53:51 Materialism & Other Areas of Tzniut Beyond Clothing57:37 How Does Bracha Aim to Show Up? 01:00:57 Host’s Outro
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