247. Rabbi Eliyahu Shusterman | Faith and Recovery247. Rabbi Eliyahu Shusterman | Faith and Recovery
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Faith is an important tool in recovery. Not everyone has is, but if you do, you should tap into this magical source. Globally, about 70-75% of the population believe in God or a higher power and faith traditions represent about 84% of the population. There are about 20 -25 organized religions and over 4,000 faith groups worldwide. The Faith Leaders have an important role in the issue of drugs and are underutilized group in drug prevention, treatment, and recovery. Rabbi Eliyahu Schusterman is the founder and director of Chabad Intown - Atlanta. Chabad Intown is now a full-service provider for Jewish Life in Atlanta whose offerings include; Mommy and Me, Intown Jewish Preschool, Intown Hebrew School, C-Teen, Young Jewish Professionals, Intown Jewish Academy, JBN, Jeff’s Place Recovery Center and the Shul @ Chabad Intown. From its inception in 1997 Chabad Intown has grown exponentially and currently serves over 2,000 Jews of all backgrounds throughout the year. In addition, Rabbi Schusterman is a consultant for many Chabad Centers in fundraising and organization management. One of his passions is utilizing technology and business technique to better impact the Jewish world and increase Jewish involvement. He received ordination from the Central Chabad Yeshiva in Brooklyn. He and his wife Dena, Executive Director of the Intown Jewish Preschool, have 8 children, and 2 grandchildren. https://www.clintonfoundation.org/programs/education-health-equity/clinton-global-initiative/overdose-response-network/engaging-community-leaders Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the speaker and do not necessarily represent the views, policies, or positions of the United States Government or any of its agencies. The content was recorded prior to the speaker's current federal service and is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. No agency endorsement or approval should be inferred.
1:06:21•15 Sept 2025
Faith's Role in Recovery: Rabbi Shusterman's Journey
Episode Overview
- Faith leaders can play a crucial role in addiction recovery by offering support and reducing stigma.
- Jewish teachings align closely with recovery principles, providing valuable insights.
- Creating open conversations within communities helps destigmatise addiction.
- Understanding addiction as part of the human condition can foster empathy.
- Faith-based organisations can be powerful allies in supporting recovery.
“"Addiction is not a moral failing; it's a part of the human condition we all share."”
Interested in how faith can play a role in addiction recovery? This episode features Rabbi Eliyahu Shusterman, founder of Chabad Intown in Atlanta, who shares his journey and the importance of faith leaders in tackling addiction. Rabbi Shusterman discusses the often-overlooked potential of faith communities in supporting those struggling with addiction. He highlights the unique perspective of Chabad's mission, which aligns with providing support for recovery.
With personal anecdotes about his experiences, including the tragic story of Jeff, a community member who succumbed to an overdose, Rabbi Shusterman illustrates the pressing need for destigmatising addiction within religious communities. The episode also explores the relationship between Jewish teachings and recovery principles, revealing how deeply intertwined they are. Dr. Roneet Lev, the host, facilitates this insightful discussion, shedding light on how faith leaders can become pivotal figures in addiction prevention and recovery.
By fostering open conversations and reducing stigma, faith leaders can create a supportive environment for those in need. Are you curious about how faith can transform lives in the face of addiction?
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