In this episode of From The Inside Out Podcast with Rivkah and Eda, Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson, author of Positivity Bias, A Time to Heal, and On Purpose, explores the deeper meaning of positivity and purpose through the lens of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings. Drawing from his extensive study of the Rebbe’s wisdom, Rabbi Kalmenson challenges the common notion that positivity is naïve, reframing it instead as positive theology—a perspective that reveals the deeper truth of reality rather than just a mindset shift.
He shares powerful insights on overcoming negativity bias, finding meaning in life’s struggles, and discovering one’s unique purpose. He explains how our talents, passions, personality traits, and even our greatest challenges are clues to our mission in this world. Through compelling stories and real-life examples, he illustrates how personal hardships can lead to transformation, how we can shift from survival mode to thriving, and why the Rebbe’s teachings are more relevant today than ever.
Rabbi Kalmenson’s work is rooted in his deep exploration of the Rebbe’s guidance, distilling its profound messages into practical wisdom for today’s world. Whether discussing healing, resilience, or personal growth, he brings to life the Rebbe’s perspective on how every individual has a vital role to play in the grand purpose of creation.
→ Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/mM5l_ZYi-ug
GUEST BIO
RABBI MENDEL KALMENSON
Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson is the rabbi of Beit Baruch and executive director of Chabad of Belgravia, London, where he lives with his wife, Chana, and children.
Mendel was an editor at the Judaism Website - Chabad.org, and is also the author of the popular books Seeds of Wisdom, Positivity Bias, A Time to Heal, and most recently: On Purpose: Practical Wisdom for Designing a Life of Purpose.
You can find Rabbi Kalmenson at his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002923444353
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CHAPTERS
00:00:08 – 00:05:15 : Introduction & The Power of Positivity
00:05:15 – 00:11:30 : Theology vs. Psychology – The Rebbe’s Perspective
00:11:30 – 00:20:10 : Sensitivity & Validating Pain – True Positivity
00:20:10 – 00:31:00 : The Negativity Bias & Overcoming It
00:31:00 – 00:40:40 : The Search for Purpose – It’s Already W
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