Dragon Slaying: Conversations on Self-Transformation

Spring does not arrive all at once, and healing often does not either. In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Tom Bittker sits down with Rabbi Michael Dallen to explore the spiritual meaning of healing, the transition from winter into hope, and the deeper message of Purim. Together, they reflect on the Hebrew ideas of healing and constriction, then move into the story of Esther, Mordecai, Haman, exi...

Super Bowl Sunday, but the conversation is anything but sports. Dr. Tom Bittker and Michael Dallen dig into what real leadership looks like when a nation feels fractured. From Lincoln’s “Team of Rivals” and the power of humility, to civic guilt, true patriotism, and the ancient biblical warnings about the unchecked rich and powerful, this episode is a sober, faith-rooted look at where we are… and...

A painful week, and a heavy conversation. Dr. Tom Bittker and attorney/rabbi Michael Dallen unpack protests, claimed ICE overreach, and what happens to a nation when fear replaces conscience. They connect today’s headlines to biblical warnings about power, intimidation, and moral drift, then pivot to something deeper: faith, humility, and what it really means to “bless” others while refusing hatre...

Who really owns America, the people, or the plutocrats? And what happens to democracy when voter ID battles, ICE and Border Patrol presence, and media narratives collide with fear, anger, and fatigue? In this episode, Dr. Tom Bittker and Rabbi Michael Dallen dive into the tensions tearing at America’s civic soul and the spiritual resources that can still hold it together. Pasted text Drawing on hi...

Leaders, Anti Heroes, and the State of America: A Deep Dive with Tom Vitker and Mike Dallen In this episode, Thomas Vitker and Michael Dallen explore the psychological, political, and societal dimensions of leadership, especially in turbulent times. They discuss the characteristics of controversial leaders, the impacts of recent American policies, and reflect on how history and religion influence...

Join Dr. Tom Bittker and Michael Dallen in a thought-provoking discussion on the shifting political landscape in America. From their roots as Kennedy Democrats to their current perspectives, they explore the evolution of political awareness, the impact of immigration, and the role of education in shaping future generations. This episode delves into the complexities of American identity and the cha...

Join hosts Tom Vitker and Michael Dallen as they explore the dynamic evolution of New York City, from its gritty past to its current challenges. Delve into discussions on urban transformation, societal shifts, and the enduring spirit of a city that never sleeps. This episode also touches on broader themes of resilience and identity, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary events. Don...

Join Dr. Tom Bittker and esteemed biblical scholar Michael Dallen as they delve into a thought-provoking discussion on faith, politics, and history. From the impact of biblical teachings on modern society to the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, this conversation offers deep insights and personal reflections. Discover the stories behind their books, "Dragon Slaying" and "The Rain...

Join Dr. Tom and Michael Dallen, an attorney and biblical scholar, as they dive into a thoughtful, honest conversation about the relationship between Judaism and Islam. Together they explore how these faiths understand God, community, law, and moral responsibility in today’s world. In this episode, they discuss:Historical connections and tensions between Judaism and IslamHow radical ideologies dis...

How do you make sense of a senseless loss? In this deeply personal episode of the Dragon Slaying podcast, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker shares the sudden death of a beloved colleague—killed by a drunk driver—and sits down with Michael Dallen, attorney and biblical scholar, to wrestle with the timeless question:“Why do bad things happen to good people?”From there, they move into a rich, honest conversation...

What does it mean to live “God-conscious” in a secular world? And how can a God who knows everything still give us real free will? In this episode of the Dragon Slaying podcast, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker, author of Dragon Slaying: A Primer for Heroic Self-Transformation, sits down with attorney and theologian Michael Dallen, author of The Rainbow Covenant, to explore God, immortality, Judaism, and hum...

A deep, compelling conversation with Michael Dallen and Dr. Thomas E. Bittker exploring the real historical context of Moses, the oppression in Egypt, the plagues, ancient culture, and the origins of faith and law. From Joseph’s journey to Egypt to Moses’ transformation into a revolutionary leader, this episode uncovers the stories behind the scripture—history, legend, and meaning. Subscribe for m...

Join Dr. Thomas E. Bittker and biblical scholar Michael Dallen on the Dragon Slaying Podcast as they explore the enduring principles that have shaped civilizations, cultures, and individual lives. From the wisdom of the Gettysburg Address to the revolutionary ethos embedded in Torah and Noahide laws, this episode bridges history, faith, and contemporary social challenges. Discover how the founding...

Unlock the power of the stories you believe. In this episode, Dr. Tom explores organizing myths—the powerful belief systems that guide religions, nations, and individuals through life’s greatest challenges. From the American ideal to personal faith journeys, we uncover why myths matter and how affirmations can shape your future. Inspired by transformative principles from Jordan Peterson’s 12 Rules...

Join Thomas E. Bittker and Mike Dallen in a thought-provoking dialogue that delves into the intricacies of American political discourse, particularly surrounding immigration and civil rights. This episode explores the balance of power as outlined in the U.S. Constitution and how historical decisions continue to influence contemporary policies. Bittker shares his concerns about the state of immigra...

In this heartfelt episode of the Dragon Slaying Podcast, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker sits down with author Chris Elliott, the creator of Thought Shredder and Love Letters, to explore the power of forgiveness, gratitude, and self-awareness in healing from childhood trauma. Chris opens up about his difficult past growing up with an abusive, alcoholic father — and how he transformed that pain into a powerf...

In this deeply reflective episode of The Dragon Slaying Podcast, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker and scholar Mike Dallen explore Israel’s divine significance, the rise of antisemitism, and the spiritual symbolism behind the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).Together, they discuss:The biblical meaning of Israel as a “miracle nation”How faith and resilience sustain the Jewish people through historyThe prophetic i...

Welcome to the Dragon Slaying Podcast with author Thomas E. Bittker. This channel dives deep into the struggles, stories, and wisdom that shape our lives. Through conversations with inspiring voices like Michael Dallen and others, we explore powerful topics such as:The history and resilience of the Jewish peopleUnderstanding and confronting antisemitism across timeIsrael, faith, and cultural ident...

In this empowering reflection, Dr. Tom Bittker shares the Heroic Disciplines—timeless principles to help you rise from trauma, embrace resilience, and live as your higher self. From conviction without compromise to courage in uncertainty, joy in self-mastery, service without ego, radical integrity, resilience through reinvention, and vision beyond the self—these disciplines guide you to manifest y...

On this first day of autumn, we pause to reflect on both the sacred and the urgent. As Rosh Hashanah begins—the Jewish New Year and the start of the Days of Awe—we explore the deeper meaning of this season: renewal, repentance, and rediscovering awe in a world that feels increasingly fractured. In this conversation, we dive into:🌅 The Significance of Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur — holidays of j...

In this September 13th episode, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker reflects on loss, courage, and the enduring power of voices that challenge and inspire. He addresses the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and the dangers of weaponizing speech in a divided society. Dr. Bittker also pays tribute to his late friend, Daniel Erwin—an old-school radio journalist whose depth, empathy, and elegance left a lasting...

Welcome to Dragon Slayers — a podcast and community where science fiction, fantasy, and spirituality meet. Hosted by Dr. Thomas E. Bittker with Jessica Ferron and CJ, we explore how stories like Star Wars, Star Trek, Tolkien, Asimov, and more shape our values, ethics, and vision of the future.✨ What you’ll find here:Deep conversations on ethics, discipline & neurotheologyInsights into sci-fi...

Welcome to the Dragon Slayers Podcast, where hosts Dr. Tom Bittker and Michael Dallen embark on an enlightening journey through the realms of faith, community, and personal transformation. In each episode, we dive deep into meaningful discussions that challenge conventional thinking and inspire listeners to explore their own beliefs and values. Join us as we share powerful stories of resilience an...

In this rich and wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker and author Mike Dallen dive deep into questions of faith, Jewish history, and the evolving role of God in modern religious life. The dialogue begins with lighthearted Shabbat greetings and quickly moves into weighty topics—from the heat waves in Michigan to the far-reaching historical consequences of Jacob Frank’s 18th-century antinom...

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Thomas E. Bittker sits down with biblical scholar, attorney, and author Mike Dallen to explore one of the most polarizing and emotionally charged issues of our time: the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Together, they confront the explosive accusations of genocide against Israel, the historical and theological origins of the term "Palestinian,&...