Dragon Slaying: Conversations on Self-Transformation cover art

Dragon Slaying: Conversations on Self-Transformation

Dragon Slaying: Conversations on Self-Transformation

Written by: Tom Bittker MD MA
Listen for free

About this listen

Embark on a journey of self-transformation with Dr. Tom Bittker. Each episode delves into the realms of mental health, offering a compassionate space for overcoming life's challenges. Through enlightening discussions and inspiring conversations with a variety of guests, Dr. Bittker sheds light on the paths to slaying the metaphorical dragons that loom in our minds.Tom Bittker, MD, MA Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • Dragon Slaying podcast Ep#71 Exploring Faith and Identity: A Dialogue on Judaism and Islam
    Dec 27 2025

    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 distort religion and fuel hatredThe everyday compassion and courage of ordinary believersUniversal principles of justice, mercy, and humility that can unite usThis is not a debate, but a bridge-building dialogue rooted in respect, candor, and a shared desire to seek truth and honor God.If conversations about faith, identity, and coexistence matter to you, hit play and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes.#Judaism #Islam #Interfaith #Faith #Spirituality #Podcast #DragonSlaying

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Dragon Slaying podcast Ep#70: God, Free Will & Truth – Dr. Tom Bittker with Michael Dallen
    Dec 12 2025

    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 about grief, free will, justice, and God’s presence in a broken world.Together, they explore:The Jewish understanding of the soul, immortality, and what happens after deathHow free will and God’s laws coexist – and why tragedy doesn’t mean God is absentTurning pain into purpose: changing laws, protecting others, and “perfecting the world”America’s moral journey, from injustice to greater justice, and the role of biblical valuesHow people of different faiths – Jews, Christians, and Muslims – can all act righteouslyThe meaning of Hanukkah, Christmas, and the call to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God”This episode is part theology, part history, part raw processing of grief – and ultimately, an invitation to live more compassionately, consciously, and humbly in the time we’re given.If you’re grieving, questioning, or just searching for deeper meaning in this season, this conversation is for you.Books referenced:Dragon Slaying: A Primer for Heroic Self-Transformation – Dr. Thomas E. BittkerThe Rainbow Covenant – Michael Dallen#Grief #Faith #Judaism #FreeWill #Spirituality #DragonSlaying #Podcast

    Show More Show Less
    57 mins
  • Dragon Slaying podcast Ep#69: God, Free Will & Truth – Dr. Tom Bittker with Michael Dallen
    Dec 4 2025

    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 human choice.The conversation starts with memories of Windsor, Ontario and fading Jewish communities in North America, then moves into a deep discussion of:What Judaism means by being “made in the image of God”Why God-consciousness is at the center of Jewish lifeHow the Seven Noahide Laws apply to all humanity, not only JewsNear-death experiences and what they suggest about the soul and eternityHow our choices can honor or dishonor GodWhy struggle, work, and responsibility matter spirituallyIf you’ve ever wrestled with questions like “Is God really involved in our lives?” or “Why does free will matter?” this thoughtful, honest discussion will give you a lot to reflect on.Books mentioned:Dragon Slaying: A Primer for Heroic Self-Transformation – Dr. Thomas E. BittkerThe Rainbow Covenant – Michael Dallen#Judaism #Faith #God #FreeWill #Spirituality #Podcast #DragonSlaying

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
No reviews yet