Spiritually Hungry (Monica Berg and Michael Berg)

Is there meaning in coincidence? Are they really messages we are meant to receive? Or are we seeing more than is actually there as we try to make sense of our lives? Kabbalah teaches us that there is a cause for all occurrences in our lives, whether we see it or not. And while there is no black and white way to approach coincidences, we hold the power to ascribe meaning to them, or lack thereof. Tune in as Monica and Michael discuss the strength, perspective, and support that divine messages can bring to our lives.

“Everything is meant for your greatest good. What is powerful about transforming our view of coincidences is that it makes life richer and more meaningful.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

-      Synchronicity: An Acausal Connecting Principle by Carl G. Jung

-      Thirty Years that Shook Physics: The Story of Quantum Theory by Dr. George Gamow

The New Year invites us to start new chapters in our lives. The idea of a clean slate is motivating as we pursue change, but the truth is we can start something new at any time. Every breath of every day is full of possibilities. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael welcome 2023 with deep insight about how to seize the opportunity to create change in any given moment so you can live your best life.

“Learn to become comfortable and sit with the things that make you uncomfortable.”

– Monica Berg

Further Readings:

• Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life Hardcover, by Dr. Mark Hyman MD (Available – February 21, 2023)
• How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, by Katy Milkman

It’s human nature to try to control things. Some of us, in fact, try to control everything! We spend so much time trying to control our thoughts, what people think of us, and each potential outcome around every possible corner. Of course, the truth is we can't control everything, which creates more anxiety and leads to more stress. In this episode of the Spiritually Hungry podcast, Monica and Michael explore how letting go can make you unstoppable in the pursuit of your desires. It's a great paradox. The more we surrender to the moment, the more we can be present, make space for what we truly want and show up for every area of our lives as our true authentic selves.

“Letting go doesn’t mean giving up your autonomy. It means surrendering to the process and the outcome. Everything is about what you learn along the way.” – Monica Berg

Liel Shitrit and Shoham Cohen survived the Hamas attack at the Nova Music Festival in Israel on October 7th. They now travel the world to share their story of resilience, love, and Light with others. Join us for a very special conversation about their experience and the miracles they now find in everyday moments. Content warning: This episode contains depictions of graphic violence that some may find disturbing. Listener discretion is advised.

“I think connections are more important to me than money and work. I wake up every day and just smile because I woke up.” – Liel Shitrit

When we encounter challenges on our way to achieving our goals, we can get discouraged and feel the impulse to give up. The truth is the middle is often messy, and the process never really ends. Join us as we discuss how perseverance shapes us into the people we are ultimately meant to be.

“The natural trajectory of the human experience is to become more pessimistic over time. The reality of living longer is seeing more negativity. So we have to nurture a growing optimistic view of our lives.” – Michael Berg

How can mindfulness improve our mind and body wellness? And how do our thoughts impact the body? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we speak with Dr. Ellen Langer to learn what four decades of mindfulness research has taught her about the relationship between mental attitude and physical health.

“If we see mind and body as a single unit, then wherever you’re putting the mind, you’re necessarily putting the body, which gives us enormous control over our health.” – Dr. Langer

Further Readings:

The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health, by Ellen J. Langer

To join Monica for the Living Your Values: International Women's Day Panel on Zoom on March 7th at 1pm EST, please register here: https://share.kabbalah.com/IWD

In the quest to achieve our dreams, we can get stuck in thoughts about yesterday and tomorrow. Kabbalists teach that the key to reaching our potential is living for today with gusto. Join Monica and Michael in this mini-episode as they explore key ingredients for fulfilling our greatest desires in life.

“Understanding potential means there is a duality of thought—on the one hand, who I am, what I am, and where I am is perfect. On the other hand, my desire of who I am meant to be is endlessly greater than where I am right now.” – Michael Berg

Every day, life reflects the areas that require spiritual transformation. It’s our job to recognize these and understand that everything we experience is meant to teach us and help us become the person we are meant to become. Join us in this episode of Spiritually Hungry as we discuss the world as our spiritual mirror for change. 

The idea of radical change can evoke great fear. But change is inevitable and can lead to tremendous personal growth. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Lisa Bilyeu shares how she cultivated radical confidence despite fear, and completely restructured her life for deeper success and fulfillment.

“Fear can actually hold you back or it can propel you forward. That’s how I think about life now. I pause and go, ‘Is this leading you towards your goal or away from your goal?’ If it leads me away from my goal, I won’t do it. If it leads me toward my goal, I better figure it out.” – Lisa Bilyeu

Further Readings:

Radical Confidence, by Lisa Bilyeu

As we wrap up the first month of the year, we can feel the weight of self-doubt creep in. The excitement and determination of New Year’s resolutions may fade and be replaced by questions like, Can I really do this? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we dive into the roots of self-doubt, why it happens, and how to transform it into a tool for growth. Join us as we explore strategies to reframe the voice of your inner critic and move forward with confidence and resilience.

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael examine the way we think, which can often be self-defeating despite our potential to do great things and having much to be grateful for. Tune in as they explore tools for letting go of negativity while building positive thinking that leads us to living the kind of life we truly want to live. 

The world is filled with abundance; we don’t have to focus on lack. – Michael Berg

Whether conscious or subconscious, judging others is harmful and – as it usually comes from a place of lack or insecurity within ourselves – says infinitely more about us than whomever we judge. Listen as Monica and Michael discuss how we can fight our instinct to judge through an embrace of mercy and compassion, and how doing so not only creates a chain reaction that truly makes the world a better place, it also leads us to transforming into who we want to be.



We never see something negative in another person so we can change them, we see it so we can change ourselves. – Michael Berg

Further readings:

This Is Water by David Foster Wallace

Radical Compassion by Tara Brach

Fundamentals by Frank Wilczek

When we don’t know which path to take, we sometimes look for signs from the universe: directions telling us which way to go. The truth is, there are signs everywhere, all of the time! In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to spot messages from the Creator in our everyday lives. 

“In order for us to live the life we are meant to live, with the blessings we are meant to have, we have to be constantly desiring and open to these messages. They are a map from the Creative Force of the Universe directing us to the right place.” – Michael Berg

Do you still have questions about reincarnation? We know you do because we received more emails about episodes 124 and 126 than about any other episode we’ve ever recorded. This week on Spiritually Hungry, we sit down to answer your biggest questions about reincarnation and what it means for you and this life you’re living right now.

“One of the most fundamental truths about any attainment of wisdom is that you understand how little you do understand. The more you study, the more wisdom you gain, the more vast you realize the truth is.” – Michael Berg

Our ancestors pass down more than physical traits or family stories. We can also inherit traumatic experiences that can impact us in ways we are not even conscious of. In this episode, we discuss generational trauma and how to turn challenging experiences in our family’s history into opportunities for deep personal growth.

“It is very important to look back on the challenges that come to us from our generational trauma. It’s also very important to look at the positive things that are within us because of our ancestors and use them as an inspiration for what we can do with our lives.” – Michael Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael examine the difference between religion and spirituality and how both are meant to help us, as individuals and as a collective, change and grow. Listen as they explain the true purpose of religious writings as a framework for connecting to the vital energy of the universe and how we attract more of this energy by our actions and consciousness.

Monica and Michael explore the process of forgiveness as we learn how to quiet the ego and embrace mistakes. Listen as they uncover the root of shame and fear of failure. Ask yourself, what would your life be like if you got excited about mistakes and didn’t equate it with failure? Letting go is only one of many aspects of forgiving ourselves and those who have hurt us.

Our society upholds truth as a virtue, but as we strive to do the right thing in each moment, the question remains: is it ever okay to lie? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, join us as we discuss the real truth when it comes to the lies we tell every day.

“Before you choose to tell the truth, think of yourself as the other person. If you do not, you are probably going to do more damage in your truth-telling than any benefit you are hoping to have.” – Michael Berg

Ready to step into the life you were meant to live? Aries is the month to do it. In this powerful live-recorded episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we discuss how embracing change, pursuing spiritual renewal, and aligning with your true purpose can completely rewrite your story. Discover how your perceived failings are actually doorways to growth, how to shift from the desires of the ego to the desires of the soul, and why the energy of Aries season is the perfect time to reframe your year.

Many of our fears stem from the fact that so much of life is unpredictable. In this live recorded episode of Spiritually Hungry, listen as we discuss how to choose certainty over fear and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

“The fear that we all share is fear of the unknown. But the key here is, all of life is unknowable. It’s up to us to discover it, to create it, to make it meaningful for us. The only way you do that is by connecting to the Creator.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings:

Fear is Not an Option, by Monica Berg

Empathy allows us to connect with others and deepen our relationships. Whether we realize it or not, the children in our lives are always watching and learning from us. Join us in this summer mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry as we discuss the most powerful ways to teach and model empathy.

“You don’t need to know someone’s story to be able to see them as human or feel their pain. You just need to be able to put yourself in their shoes.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings: The Tale of the Other Glove, by Monica & Abigail Berg

In this episode, Monica and Michael discuss the spiritual purpose of negative emotions like anger and jealousy. Together they uncover the reasons why we often use anger to create a false sense of control. Listen as they explore how we can reframe these emotions to better grow from them.

In our quest for spiritual transformation, we can begin to seek answers outside of our physical reality. However, tapping into deep-healing energy can be done anywhere. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we talk with Indigenous medicine woman and intuitive healer Sara Eaglewoman and learn how to find peace through meditation.

When was the last time you felt awe or wonder? Having a deep connection to the Creator means pausing daily to truly pay attention to what’s happening around you. This has become increasingly difficult with the distractions of our modern world. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry we talk about how to nurture a mindful sense of awareness.

“The only way to pray incorrectly is to do it mindlessly.” – Monica Berg

“How to Pray with Our Eyes Open” by Tish Harrison (NYT Article)

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/16/opinion/spring-nature-christianity.html

A Short Guide to a Happy Life by Anna Quindlen

When was the last time you invited your partner in? It is true that couples are either growing together or growing apart. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to bring spirituality into a relationship so your partner can become a part of the personal growth that fortifies a relationship.

“We are strong now because we learned what it is to be in a partnership—not just through the highs, but really through being vulnerable in the most difficult times when we leaned in towards each other.” - Monica Berg

Have you ever felt like the challenges you experience in life are meaningless? According to Kabbalah, every single bump in the road is there to help us evolve into something more than we are today. We invite you to join us for this live-recorded episode of Spiritually Hungry as we discuss the purpose of darkness in life.

“You have the ability to say, this isn’t just a terrible thing I’m going through—there’s a purpose to this. And not only is there a purpose to this, but this is actually the purpose of life.” - Michael Berg

Further Readings:

Far From the Tree, by Andrew Solomon

From nightclub and real estate powerhouse to humanitarian hero, Michael Capponi’s personal transformation led him to launch the Global Empowerment Mission, a nonprofit that has supported communities in crisis worldwide for over a decade. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, join us for a soul-centered conversation with Michael about how Kabbalah guided him towards wisdom, clarity, and a higher purpose.

“The wisdom I acquired from the negativity I went through is the greatest gift of all.”

– Michael Capponi

When a friend is in crisis, how do you show up? Every situation is different. And while you can’t fix someone, you can show up for them in a powerful, life-altering way. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we talk about the act of holding space for friends in need. How do we know when to step in? And how do we show love? We invite you to listen in on this important conversation.

“If you are a person who holds yourself back, the one thing you will be left with is regret.”

– Monica Berg

Further Readings:

How Do You Serve a Friend in Despair? by David Brooks

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/09/opinion/despair-friendship-suicide.html

The pressure to achieve your financial goals and be successful is greater than ever. We often put a tremendous amount of pressure on ourselves to tap into abundance, forgetting that the Light of the Creator is limitless. Listen to this episode of Spiritually Hungry as we outline how to release money fears and embrace endless blessings.

“The energy of the universe is an energy of endless sharing. You have to know that. Which means there is no reason why any of us should be in a state of lack.” – Michael Berg

Statistics about the rise of depression and anxiety are startling. But recent scientific studies show an interesting link between our physical wellness and spiritual connection. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss what modern research and ancient kabbalists have to say about achieving a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment through a strong spiritual practice.

“You will never ever feel lonely if you have a strong connection to the Creator. One of the profound effects of spirituality is the inclination toward connection.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings:

The Awakened Brain by Dr. Lisa Miller

Everything On It by Shel Silverstein

Parenting is full of big feelings—for kids and grown-ups—which makes the job of raising good humans tricky to navigate. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we talk to author Hunter Clarke-Fields about how to parent more mindfully and ultimately raise good humans. 

Further Readings:

Raising Good Humans by Hunter Clarke-Fields

Raising Good Humans Every Day by Hunter Clarke-Fields

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety or depression? What if we told you the key to ridding yourself of these emotions resides within you? It’s true—we are imminently capable of changing our thoughts. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we’ll explain exactly what we mean and share ideas about how you can change how you experience life by shifting your perspective and finding more clarity.

“If you start to change the lens through which you view your experience of life, your experience will actually change.” – Monica Berg

One of the hardest parts of grief is finding something beautiful within the loss. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, Grant Garry opens up about his transformative journey through grief and what led him to create a documentary about the experience of loss—Meet Me Where I Am. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about how the pain of grief can be a powerful teacher guiding us toward deeper joy.

Further Resources:

Meet Me Where I Am (Documentary)

The Where Am I Podcast

In this intimate episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael share the most meaningful lessons Karen and Rav Berg taught them over the decades. Listen as they share personal stories of the woman who made it her life's work to teach the world about certainty and love, making the wisdom of Kabbalah accessible to all those with a desire to learn.  

When couples decide to create a life together, they often approach the relationship with unrealistic expectations. Strong relationships are built on connection and communication. Listen as Monica and Michael answer questions from listeners that address some of the most common issues couples face as they navigate responsibilities, roles, and respect in a partnership.

“When you come together and decide to create a life together, build a home together, and perhaps have children, couples can have these expectations that are never discussed and aren’t really fair, and it doesn’t create connection. It’s not about right or wrong. It has to work for the couple.” – Monica Berg

The holidays can bring us together with some of the most challenging people in our lives: family. Even the most strained and difficult relationships can be a source of meaningful growth. Join us for a conversation that can help each of us enter the holiday season with appreciation. 

Relationships can be messy. But conflict can be the gateway to deeper connection and true closeness if we know how to approach it. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, join us for a conversation and actionable steps for long-lasting love and intimacy. 

Did you know that children are born naturally spiritual beings? Children who are allowed to be curious and cultivate their spirituality are more likely to thrive. If fostering a spiritual practice has not been a priority for you in your parenting, it’s not too late! This week on Spiritually Hungry, we discuss the importance of supporting the spiritual growth of our children. We invite you to join us for an important conversation about parenting and raising spiritual kids.

“What motivates the guidance we offer our children? Is it about us or is it about them? It’s never too late to instill in them that everything they need to know exists within themselves. But they have to be able to find that.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings:

The Spiritual Child by Lisa Miller

In a desire to share their truth, some people overshare and mistake it for authenticity. Not every truth needs to be shared. Authenticity is about being brave enough to be yourself and genuine enough to live according to your values. There is a time to speak up and a time for quiet reflection. In this insightful episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael discuss how to avoid the pitfalls of oversharing and remain aligned to your core beliefs.

“When you are actively looking at another person and judging them or saying something negative about them, you are actively putting yourself in a place of darkness and negativity.”

– Michael Berg

“Prince Harry and the Value of Silence” by Patti Davis

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/07/opinion/prince-harry-and-the-value-of-silence.html

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael delve into reincarnation from a kabbalistic perspective – the spiritual concept that our souls are eternal forces of energy that cycle through incarnations. Listen as they discuss the influence past lives can have on our current lifetime and how understanding our soul’s history gives us deep insights and shifts our perspective on life.

The purpose of reincarnation is to get a better understanding of what our souls are in this world to do. – Michael Berg

Have you ever asked the Universe to send you a sign? Most of us look for signs when we seek answers. The truth is the Creator sends us messages all the time. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to tune in to the voice of the Creator every single day and strengthen our innate intuition.

“Your soul is processing all of the messages you are receiving all of the time. The goal is to bridge the gap between the unconscious mind and the conscious mind, between the soul and the brain, so that they start forming our direction in life.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

Signs: The Secret Language of the Universe, by Laura Lynne Jackson

Studies show that approximately 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail. So, how do we gain the clarity we need to spark continuous growth and change in the new year? How do we successfully become the person we want to be? When we reflect back on the past year, what is worth taking with us into the new year and what are we ready to leave behind? Gratitude may be one of the most powerful paths to achieving our goals. But there is so much more. Join Monica and Michael as they discuss ten tools for finding fulfillment in 2022. 

“Begin with a canvas of gratitude. Starting with gratitude is not just a nice or spiritual thing to do. It gives you the clarity and strength to create real change.” – Michael Berg

From the day we are born, we receive messages about who we should be and what choices we should make. But this is seldom aligned with our true nature. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, guest Jenna Zoe illuminates Human Design, a tool that can help us work with our innate energy and gifts to live a fulfilling and centered life. 

“It’s about coming back to who you already were before the world told you how to be.” - Jenna Zoe

Our minds are more powerful than we realize. In this summer mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how catching and redirecting your thoughts can shape your emotions and overall mindset. Join us as we unpack practical strategies to harness your thoughts, cultivate a positive mindset, and live a more intentional and purpose-driven life.

“Having a sense of purpose, appreciation, and gratitude, is that circuitry which allows you to certainly live more of the days of your life.” – Monica Berg

In this season of reflection, we often revisit the question of who we are meant to be in this lifetime. This episode of Spiritually Hungry was recorded live during Rosh Hashanah. Listen as we discuss the art of living your purpose in the New Kabbalistic Year.

“Simply being a good person is not even close to what our souls are meant to do in this world. Only when we consistently remember this point can the potential of who we are actually meant to be, become reality.” – Michael Berg

How do you nurture your soul? We would love to share a few simple but essential ways to give your soul the things it needs to grow and thrive. Spirituality is not a luxury for when we have extra time or energy. Rather, it can be integrated into every aspect of our lives. Join us, Monica and Michael Berg, as we talk about how to prioritize a daily spiritual practice on this episode of Spiritually Hungry.

“Spirit is something that needs to be taken care of. It’s more important than any other pursuit, including the mind or the body.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings:

Care of the Soul by Thomas Moore

Our egos can cloud the value of our relationships, creating disconnection and shielding us from vulnerability. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we delve deeper into the topic of difficult conversations. Explore how conflict and differences between partners aren’t a flaw but a gift. Even when relationships end, there’s wisdom to be gained. Tune in to uncover how friction can foster growth and deepen our connections.

The Light of the Creator is the source of all blessings and a model of the selfless energy with which we can aspire to give. But how do we tune into this kind of generosity so we can give without hesitation or restraint? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss the importance of whole-hearted generosity. 

“Not only do I have a choice about which part of me I will live my life directed towards—the altruistic or selfish part of me—how I view the world, how I interact with people, and how I try to uplift people is very much my responsibility, as well.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

The Penguin and the Leviathan: How Cooperation Triumphs over Self-Interest

by Yochai Benkler

The Gift: The Form and Reason for Exchange in Archaic Societies

by Marcel Mauss and W. D. Halls

We often tell ourselves a false tale of our limitations, which prevent us from even attempting to achieve great things. The truth is our potential is more vast than we can imagine. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to reveal the infinite Light within each of us.

“If we are honest, I think most of us would admit that even on our best days, our best thoughts of our potential in our lives in all areas are still limited. As long as we still tell ourselves the story of limitation, there is no way we can even begin to live a life we are meant to live.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

The Infinite Game, by Simon Sinek

There is so much goodness in store for us. But we often waste time and energy worrying, ruminating, and second-guessing ourselves. In this mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to surrender to the process and trust in the Creator so we are free to spend our energy pursuing passions and living in the moment.

“Holding onto things, like anger or resentment, actually stops the Light of the Creator with its positive intentions from entering into the situation. Not letting go, not training ourselves persistently to actively let go, actually precludes many positive benefits and blessings from entering into our life.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

The Power of Bad: How the Negativity Effect Rules Us and How We Can Rule It

by John Tierney & Roy F. Baumeister

The harshest words we ever mutter may be the things we say to ourselves. In this summer mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss four tools for building greater self-worth so you can live your best life, mistakes and all.

“Rather than striving to be perfect, get excited about being better.” – Michael Berg

With so much information available to us every day, it can be difficult to tune into the most important messages: those that come straight from the Creator. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss the four levels of intuition and how to distinguish between each divine message we receive.

“The reality is that for every step you take, there is a message… It’s about opening up our mind and consciousness to the fact that not only is the universe conspiring for our benefit and the messages are coming all of the time, it’s also a necessary part of our development as human beings.” – Michael Berg

We are in this world to grow and evolve—but real growth only happens when we’re willing to confront where we’re wrong. The problem? Our ego is always working against us, convincing us that we’re right, keeping us stuck in old patterns, and stealing the energy we need to fulfill our purpose. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore the many ways ego shows up in our lives: how it fuels anxiety, distorts our perceptions, and blocks our true potential.

Further Reading:

Mistakes Were Made (But Not By Me) by Elliot Aronson

Only a fraction of what we see is based on input from our eyes. Everything else is filled in by connection in other parts of the brain. Meaning the way to change the negativity we experience in our lives is not by changing the world around you. It’s by changing your mind. In this summer mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry, we talk about how to embrace radical optimism for the most fulfilling life.

“If you’re experiencing negativity in your life right now, the way to change it is not by changing the outside world. It’s by changing your mind.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

Deviate, by Beau Lotto

Kindness or Deception: What Kinds of Lies Do You Tell?

We all tell lies. Sometimes to others. Sometimes even to ourselves. Sometimes to protect someone else’s feelings, or to make ourselves feel better. When is lying considered a kindness, and when is it considered a deception? Tune in as Monica and Michael discuss the profound impact of the lies we tell, why kindness trumps truth, and how not all lies are created equal.

We have to ask ourselves if the lies we tell, whether to others or ourselves, actually make our reality better. – Michael Berg

Further readings:

The Lies that We Tell Ourselves by Jon Frederickson

Every moment of our lives, we are shaping the energy that surrounds us—but where is that energy flowing? Without intention, we risk scattering our energy, getting stuck in unfulfilling cycles, and losing sight of our true purpose. When we set a clear intention, however, we give the Light form—we decide how it manifests in our lives. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore the difference between goals and intentions, the hidden impact of negative desires, and how the strongest intention always wins. Tune in for a special live recording from Rome to discover how setting an authentic intention can elevate your spiritual journey and align your actions with the essence of your soul.

Most of us would assert we are working towards our spiritual goals. But how hard are we actually working? The truth is that we can become complacent in our journey for spiritual transformation. Join us in this summer mini-episode of Spiritually Hungry as we discuss how to fuel the drive for greater personal change.

“Each one of our souls came into this world to accomplish a certain level of growth and change, in addition to a certain amount of goodness or Light that we bring to this world.” – Michael Berg

Have you ever wondered where insecurity comes from? In a spiritual sense, the source lies in a fundamental misconception: the belief that our gifts and talents are solely the result of our own merit. Tune in for an insightful episode as we discuss how recognizing ourselves as conduits rather than owners of our talents can lead to a more fulfilled and confident life.

"A window doesn’t bring the light in; it allows the sun to shine through it into the room. In the same way, we are conduits for the Creator’s Light." – Michael Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explain why inspiration is one of the most important parts of life as it awakens our desire and pushes us closer to reaching our potential. Tune in to discover tools for finding inspiration in everything – from family and friends to challenges and difficulties – and unlock the unique possibilities of each and every day.

Kabbalah teaches that we can place total trust in the Creator in all situations. This is more difficult to do than say. When the world is in turmoil, how do we transform our fears into unwavering certainty that every obstacle we encounter is meant for us to learn and grow from? Listen to this live-recorded episode with Monica and Michael Berg as they discuss how to find clarity in chaos.

“Practice, practice, practice. Know without knowing that this situation that has entered into your life is actually perfect for you and is what will, in some way, make your life better.”– Michael Berg

The kabbalists teach that we are given enough time to fulfill our purpose, but only just enough. Which means it behooves us to continuously reassess what fills our time. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss how to focus on the kind of busyness that brings us closer to our highest potential, how to assess if we are wasting time being busy on the things that ultimately won’t fulfill us, and helpful changes we can start making towards a more positive and soul fulfilling busyness.

Further Readings:

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

Our daily rituals are the building blocks of our lives. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we continue our discussion about living each day in alignment with our values so we can strengthen our spiritual practice and connect more deeply to the Light of the Creator.

“These tools are about creating a shift of consciousness, creating a state of existence where you feel in flow all of the time. That’s the power of what we are sharing today.”

– Monica Berg

When we stop comparing ourselves to others and shift our motivation toward a deeper connection with the Light of the Creator, we unlock a new way of living—one rooted in fulfillment and intention. Jealousy and comparison can hold us back, but they can also serve as tools for reassessment and redirection. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss the powerful truth that your purpose is uniquely yours. Tune in to discover how to embrace your own path and find inspiration without comparison.

If your spiritual practice feels stagnant, it’s time to create change. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore how breaking free from the familiar can reignite your spiritual practice and inspire meaningful growth. Join us as we share tools for embracing discomfort, trying something new, and strengthening your spiritual connection in the New Year.

Does embracing your greatness make you feel uncomfortable? You are not alone. It seems counterintuitive that it is difficult to step into your highest self. It should be the easiest thing in the world! In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss what it takes to move through the discomfort and achieve your life’s purpose.

“Engage with the question, ‘How deep is my positive impact on the people on whom I have great influence?’ That is really living a great life.” – Michael Berg

Your family is the perfect place to practice and grow because your soul chose them for a reason. Which might be exactly why holiday gatherings require a generous helping of patience and boundaries. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, we share tips to increase the joy and reduce the friction this holiday season.

“None of us have enough appreciation for our parents. Of course, there are many things that you are not happy about. This holiday season, find ways to be more appreciative.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself, by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Have you ever met a stranger and felt instantly comfortable in their company? Or have you ever experienced a deep familiarity with someone you are just getting to know? You may have met them before. Kabbalah teaches that our souls connect and reconnect over lifetimes, and therefore, the people you encounter are part of your higher purpose. We invite you to join us as we continue our conversation about reincarnation in this episode of Spiritually Hungry.

“The secret of reincarnation is to make practical and visceral the connectedness of all the souls we come in contact with every day.” – Michael Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, join Monica and Michael as they unravel the mysteries of stress and its capacity for pushing us to transform our self and our reality. Tune in to discover the positive aspects of stress, how we can choose to view it in a new light, and how we can lessen its negative influence on our lives.

Have you ever felt like you were meant for something great, but something was holding you back? It’s hard to embrace our greatness. But if we can identify what’s holding us back, we can overcome the discomfort, find flow, and achieve our highest potential. Join us in this episode of Spiritually Hungry as we unpack the steps to your most successful life.

“To the degree that we have ego and, more importantly, to the degree that we are not actively working on diminishing our ego, we are not going to be able to express the greatness of our soul as it is meant to be revealed.” – Michael Berg

Further Readings:

Unlocked: Embrace Your Greatness, Find the Flow, Discover Success, by George Mumford

We came into this world to reveal Light for the benefit of others. But how well are our daily actions aligned with this higher purpose? Join us for an episode of Spiritually Hungry that delves into the nuances of living out your true potential every single day.

“If you really direct your life towards the pursuit of revealing your soul’s potential, there are less things that upset you and less things that distract you.” – Michael Berg

In this compelling conversation, Monica and Michael uncover the source of the negative stories we tell ourselves. Learn how victimhood can become a trap for the ego, and conversely, how we can begin to take responsibility for our own growth and rewrite our story in a more positive light.

Who’s with you wherever you go—ever present, even when you can’t see them? The Creator. Just like your shadow, the Creator watches every action. And each action influences the unique relationship you have with the Creator. In this mini episode of Spiritually Hungry, we discuss the importance of consciousness as you foster a positive connection with your source.  

“As I behave, so the Light of the Creator must behave with me.” – Michael Berg

In the window of time between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we have the opportunity to return to our past and set things right. In this mini-episode, we discuss the act of teshuvah and how we can make amends and reconnect to the Light at this powerful time of year.

“There is no experience that we go through in which we don’t see through our own lens first and foremost. It is an added step, a conscious effort, to ask, ‘How did that person feel when I did this?’” – Monica Berg

Let’s talk about fear! In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael Berg explain the three different kinds of fear and how to use them as tools for growth and transformation. Listen as they discuss the difference between fear and intuition, and how to ultimately eradicate fear from our lives.

Your Perfect Imperfection: How to Embrace & Celebrate Your Flaws 

Though we tend to think of our imperfections in a negative light – often as a result of external influences – they are actually part of what makes each of us unique and whole. Join Monica and Michael as they discuss where our thoughts of imperfection come from, why we are not meant to be perfect but instead constantly driven to be better, and how viewing our supposed ‘flaws’ in a positive way honors our soul and lights the path to true fulfillment. 



Our differences are really our superpowers. – Monica Berg



Further readings: 

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown

Playing and Reality by Donald Winnicott

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore why addressing issues—one at a time—is essential to building the relationship you truly want. We discuss how unspoken micro-resentments can quietly erode connection, the spiritual power of restriction to transform conflict, and the critical difference between compromise and sacrifice. If you’ve ever stayed silent to keep the peace or confused giving in with giving love, this one’s for you.

What happens after that dramatic kiss in the rain? A romantic commitment is not the end of a love story. It’s just the beginning. In honor of Valentine’s Day, we are excited to bring you this episode of Spiritually Hungry, all about the evolution of love after a couple drives off into the sunset.

“This internal work is never complete, it is ever-evolving, and our relationships are intended to be as well. Individuals evolve individually so they can evolve together.” – Monica Berg

Further Readings:

The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm

Outliers: The Story of Success, by Malcolm Gladwell

As Monica prepares to go into surgery, a thoughtful messenger profoundly shifts her perspective, alleviating her anxieties in a single moment. Sometimes the words we need to hear can come from the most unexpected places. Messages from the universe are all around us, if only we are open to hearing them. Further, we can never truly know the impact our words can have upon others. As such, every moment counts. Everything we do matters. Listen as Monica and Michael discuss how we can hear the messages the universe means to give us, while also becoming a better messenger for those around us, and how the most seemingly-random of interactions can lead one or both parties to a life-changing moment.

There are no coincidences; every moment you can give and receive impactful, lasting Light, wisdom, and inspiration, even in the small things. – Michael Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael offer their thoughts on the spiritual concept of energetically earning – through hard work and consciousness – the gifts and blessings we want to receive in our lives. Tune in as they explain how everything in this world has an energy, and how we can use our energy to manifest our dreams into reality.

When we invest the difficult work into everything we do, we ready ourselves to receive the ultimate blessings. - Michael

There are always challenges in life, and there are also always thought processes that can help us find comfort in those dark times and even become stronger for it. Listen as Michael and Monica discuss viewing life in its totality – rather than defining our lives by singular events – and how in doing so, we can look beyond the false narratives our ego builds and truly become the creators of our story.

A problem is but one paragraph of a chapter in the story of our lives; it’s nonsensical to fall into the lie that this paragraph is everything. – Michael Berg

Further readings:

The Comfort Book by Matt Haig

Stepping out of our comfort zone not only allows us to live a richer, fuller life, it grows everything about us that makes us unique, special, and capable of making a true difference in this world. Tune in to Michael and Monica’s continued discussion of the comfort zone as they reveal how going against our comfort is the most powerful way to create miracles and share practical tips for being productively uncomfortable.



Spirituality is all about growth, and constantly maintaining that forward movement, that momentum, is the key. – Michael Berg

Further readings:

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter

How do we maintain equilibrium and stay true to ourselves in the midst of an emotionally fraught situation? How do we navigate empathy without getting dragged into someone else’s emotional turmoil? Emotions are contagious and the people around us can be some of the most influential factors in determining our state of wellbeing. By reframing our challenging relationships and realizing that every person and every situation in our lives has a purpose, we can see negative interactions as an opportunity to grow. Tune in as Monica and Michael share tips and tools for staying centered and avoiding the influence of negativity around us, so we continue working towards the person we ultimately want to be.

“We are the arbiters of what is right or wrong for ourselves. Part of our spiritual development is to everyday care less and less about what strangers, as well as people in our lives, think of us. ” – Michael Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael broach the concept of focus as it relates to our ability to grow and connect to our true purpose in life. Tune in as they share spiritual tools and tips for avoiding distractions, identifying the things that actually serve our purpose, and training our minds to be 100% present in the truly valuable moments of our lives.



Don’t allow distractions to steal the ‘now’ from you. – Monica Berg



Further readings:

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle 

Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman

Unexpected troubles have a tendency to overwhelm and overpower us, even when everything else in our lives looks pretty good. The truth is, the problems we face are often not as dire as they feel. In this mini episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael discuss four key ways you can turn your feelings of helplessness into empowerment.

“How you respond to the stressors, the challenges, and the unknown in life is really what your life becomes.” – Monica Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explore the pain of loss and how we can infuse spirituality into the grieving process to help us better handle our sorrow. Listen as they share their personal experiences with loss and provide tools for avoiding becoming defined by our grief and, instead, growing from it.

We can choose to see the grief we feel as the evidence of our incredible capacity to love. – Monica Berg

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael conclude their series on self-sabotage, this week exploring how striving to be perfect actually disrupts our lives and leads us to judging ourselves and others. Listen as they discuss the real benefits of leading a ‘messy’ life, one in which we abandon the illusion of perfection and embrace our failures as opportunities for growth.



We aren’t meant to be perfect; we are meant to live in the mud and, from that mud, take out a spark of Light. – Michael Berg



Further readings:

Mental Immunity by Andy Norman

Bird By Bird by Ann Lamott

The Pursuit of Perfect by Tal Ben-Shahar

Kabbalists teach that our souls’ primary purpose is to grow. But the ego loves to get in the way. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael Berg discuss the ways ego can prevent us from reaching our highest potential and how we can use it as a tool to redirect our consciousness, so we can instead focus on kindness and sharing.

As humans, we are built to experience big emotions. For some, this is uncomfortable, and we try to avoid feeling them fully. However, Kabbalah teaches that when we are in touch with our emotions, they can guide us and tell us how we’re doing. In this insightful episode, Monica and Michael discuss the importance of making space for sadness in our lives while simultaneously working to transcend it in healthy ways.

“Sadness is a call from our soul telling us that things aren’t as they should be and we aren’t paying attention.” – Michael Berg

Our egos desire to control everything that occurs in our lives. But our job is to trust the process. In this follow-up episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael Berg continue their discussion about the ego. Listen as they expand on the importance of maintaining a balanced ego in order to share our unique gifts with the world.

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, listen as Monica and Michael examine the strong connection between parenting and spiritual growth. Learn what kabbalists mean when they say, “Our children do not belong to us.” This conversation promises to rewire the way you think about parenthood.

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael discuss the spiritual concept of angels and how we can connect to their energy to support us in every facet of life. Listen as they explore how we can transform all of our negative thoughts, acts, and traits into positive entities that we can use to improve our life, as well as the experiences of the people around us.

You are living the energy you have created. – Michael Berg

Get Out of Your Mind and into Your Life by Steven C. Hayes, PH.D. and Spencer Smith

The Complete Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Each of us can fall into a slump from time to time when we lack the drive to achieve our goals. Though many of us attempt to troubleshoot this problem backwards. In truth, motivation is the result of action, not the cause of it. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, join Monica and Michael for a compelling conversation about keeping desire and motivation alive as we work toward our higher purpose.  

“If you do not protect your desire, you will find that you lack the motivation necessary to achieve big and important things.” – Michael Berg

Rav Ashlag said, “The difference between someone who is tremendously fulfilled and someone who is unfulfilled is their ability to see.” We all have moments when illusion blurs our vision of the opportunities for joy before us. So, how can we learn to sustain happiness every single day of our lives? Listen to this live-recorded episode with Monica and Michael Berg as they discuss pursuing happiness authentically and finding joy internally.

“One of the greatest ways to achieve happiness is not by attaining the next thing, but by having greater appreciation for what we currently have.” — Michael Berg

The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, by Bronnie Ware

Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment, by Tal Ben-Shahar

In this episode on relationships, Monica and Michael Berg explore the ways in which our relationships can evolve through challenges and how we argue and fight, enabling us to become closer and stronger. Listen as they discuss vulnerability and the qualities that make us better partners over time.

Are you a good friend? How would you need to change to become a better friend? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael Berg discuss what it means to be a good friend, have a good friend, and maintain true friendship in every relationship. 

Holidays often represent what we wish our everyday life could be like. Many of us strive to create picture-perfect memories that will leave us feeling joyful long after the celebrations have passed. What do we do when fantasy doesn’t match reality? The truth is, many aspects of holiday gatherings are out of our control. Tune in as Monica and Michael discuss how to cultivate holiday joy on a daily basis instead of trying to fit it into a single day or week. 

“Every single day, no matter what day it happens to be on the calendar, is an opportunity to appreciate and spend our time exactly as we wish to. Every day becomes an opportunity to redefine how we live and what we choose to focus on.” – Monica Berg

In the age of dating apps and social media, many of us can fall into the illusion that the ‘grass is greener’ and lose appreciation for the relationship we already have. Or, conversely, we may so fear losing our relationship that we hide our true thoughts and selves from our partner. Join Monica and Michael as they answer listener questions and reveal how to break free from unproductive behavior and grow appreciation for your relationship by investing more time and effort into its every facet.

"The relationships that work are the ones we work on." – Monica Berg

Things won’t always go our way. We know this. Yet, equanimity may not come naturally as we experience adversity. Resilience isn’t necessarily something we are all born with, though it is certainly something we can learn. Kabbalah teaches that the goal is not to be unbothered by difficulties but to work towards a peaceful acceptance of hardship, even as we strive to create significant change in our lives. Join us as Monica and Michael discuss how we can foster resilience in ourselves so we may push through to the other side of each challenge we encounter and emerge stronger than we started.

“We are aiming to find that perfect balance of equanimity—being able to take the strong winds of life and bend with them, while at the same time, not being too rigid. The goal is to flow with life.” – Michael Berg

Everyone experiences mental health challenges. Yet, wading through these difficult times can feel isolating or as if there is something wrong with you. The truth is, you’re not alone; many people struggle in the exact same way. In this mini episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael lift the shame of mental health issues and discuss how to reframe your assumptions in order to overcome shame and hopelessness.

“I think we need to embrace a messy life. And a messy life means there’s no room for perfection. That word is not even in your lexicon. That means each day you can have a plan—if it happens, great. If it doesn’t, then just embrace it. It’s probably going to be better than the one you had anticipated. There’s true freedom and joy in being the creator of your life.”

– Monica Berg 

Some of the greatest teachers in our lives come to us disguised as friends, partners, children, or even a taxi driver whose story touched us somehow in a matter of minutes. They are the people who help us discover ourselves in new ways. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, join Monica and Michael as they share some of the most powerful influences in their lives and the lessons that have been deep and lasting. 

“The kabbalists share that in order to receive wisdom from a teacher, particularly a teacher imparting holy wisdom or truth, there needs to be great toiling or effort on the student’s part. And this toiling is usually in direct proportion to the student’s desire.” – Monica Berg