#105: More Than a Dress Code: The True Measure of Modesty with Rivkah Slonim and Joyce Azria

Modesty (tznius) is one of the most sensitive, often misunderstood topics in the Jewish world. It’s not just about clothing—it’s about identity, confidence, dignity, and connection to something deeper. In this thought-provoking episode of From the Inside Out, we sit down with two incredible guests: Rivkah Slonim, a powerhouse in Jewish education, and Joyce Azria, former fashion executive turned modesty advocate. Together, we unravel the layers of tznius—why it’s challenging, what it truly means beyond fabric and rules, and how it can be a source of empowerment rather than restriction. Joyce shares her journey from the high-fashion world to embracing modesty, revealing the unexpected luxury and confidence it brings. Rifki offers profound insights on what tznius really is (hint: it’s NOT just about covering up) and how it’s deeply tied to self-respect, spirituality, and personal growth. We also explore topics like navigating modesty in professional spaces, finding joy in mitzvos even when they feel hard, and how to inspire the next generation without force or judgment. GUEST BIOS RIVKAH SLONIM Rivkah Slonim is the Associate Director at the Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University. An internationally known teacher, lecturer, and activist, she travels widely, addressing the intersection of traditional Jewish observance and contemporary life, with a special focus on Jewish women in Jewish law and life. Slonim is the editor of Total Immersion: A Mikvah Anthology and Bread and Fire; Jewish Women find God in the Everyday. Slonim and her husband are the grateful and proud parents of nine children. Her most recent book, together with Sara Morozow is Holy Intimacy: The Heart and Soul of Jewish Marriage, available for purchase here: https://a.co/d/iJWnGYf You can find more from Rivkah Slonim here: https://www.chabad.org/search/keyword_cdo/kid/1328/jewish/Rivkah-Slonim.htm JOYCE AZRIA Joyce Azria is a fashion and wellness entrepreneur, formerly the Creative Director of BCBGeneration and founder of Avec Les Filles and Amazon’s ROHB. Daughter of the late Max Azria, she grew up in “fashion royalty,” but her journey from Chanel to Shabbat reshaped her approach—shifting from creating value-driven brands to leading with her values as an Orthodox Jewish woman. Now co-founder of The Healer’s Collection, Joyce shares her passion, spirituality, and rich experiences to inspire audiences nationwide. She lives in Miami, Florida, with her children. You can find Joyce at her website here: https://www.joyceazria.com/ COMMUNITY Join the Community! Connect with us on socials to discuss Episode 105, share insights, and continue the conversations you want to have: 💫 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fromtheinsideout.podcast/ 💫 Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/L0W4PRglR5B4kC 💫 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheInsideOutPodcast?sub_confirmation=1 Special thanks to Women of Iron Unite for making this episode possible. Founded on October 10th amid the pain of Operation Iron Sword, three courageous women from Crown Heights united to protect Eretz Yisroel by inspiring prayer, unity, and tznius within our community. Organized by Sarale Blau, Rivky Perl, and Ruthie Sperlin, their initiative continues to empower women to take small steps toward growth and holiness even in challenging times. CHAPTERS 00:00:00 - 00:04:16 - Intro & Women Unite 00:04:16 - 00:08:29 - Initiative Sparks 00:08:29 - 00:13:05 - Early Modesty Journey 00:13:05 - 00:18:35 - Faith & Personal Connection 00:18:35 - 00:24:07 - Fashion Meets Faith 00:24:07 - 00:31:00 - Authenticity & Modesty 00:31:00 - 00:38:58 - Rules, Boundaries & Struggles 00:38:58 - 00:45:23 - Modesty Beyond Clothing 00:45:23 - 00:52:00 - Family Values & Legacy 00:52:00 - 01:00:00 - Personal Growth & Challenges 01:00:00 - 01:10:00 - Modesty in Relationships 01:10:00 - 01:20:45 - Navigating Social Pressures 01:20:45 - 01:30:30 - Finding Balance in Modesty 01:30:30 - 01:40:15 - Building Confidence in Values 01:40:15 - 01:50:00 - The Role of Community 01:50:00 - 02:00:30 - Lessons from Personal Experience 02:00:30 - 02:11:28 - Final Reflections & Takeaways