Originally from South Africa, Ronel has been living with her family in the scenic Judean Mountains for the past twelve years.

This transformative journey of self-discovery, leading to the recognition of her family's spiritual and physical home in Israel, was anything but brief.

In fact, it spanned eighteen years of intense exploration of Judaism before culminating in their ultimate conversion.

Despite the challenges, Ronel deems the lengthy journey worthwhile, as she is now living her dream of a more fulfilling life, culminating in the establishment of Cafe Ronel: a delectable Kosher Mehadrin cafe situated on her home's premises, inspired by local customs, cultures, flavors, tastes, and history.

This not only serves as a space for everyone to come together, celebrate, and unite but also as a place that continues to serve chayalim since the beginning of the current war, which you will hear more about in the second part of this episode, airing next week.

At the cafe, there is also an incredible and unique gift shop where one can browse quality tablecloths, challahs, serviettes, and more.

You truly have to see it to believe it, and I was fortunate to do so with my husband last year!

As this is a two-episode story, this part focuses on the first part of Ronel's journey, including her questions and delving into the Biblical texts.

Next week, we will hear more about her transition to Judaism and learn what she is up to in life today.

Thank you Ronel for coming on and sharing your story.

Canadian author Gila Green is an Israel-based writer, editor, and EFL teacher with a unique perspective on the unfolding events of Israeli history. 

Growing up, her house was intensely Zionistic, as her father grew up in British-mandated Palestine and lived through three wars during his early years of life. 

Then while traveling in Israel, Gila met her husband, who grew up in South Africa under apartheid. Together, they decided that Israel was the best place for them to live. 

Today, Gila has been living in Israel for the past few decades in Ramat Beit Shemesh, and currently, her son-in-law is in reserves, and previously her son served as well. 

With this amount of personal experience and unique understanding of Israel, Gila has put her knowledge and experience to good use as she writes fervently about Israel and has written several fictional novels and shorts on the topic. 

Here are just some of her novels:

Passport Control (S&H Publishing, Virginia, 2018)

White Zion, a novel-in-stories (Cervena Barva Press, Massachusetts, 2019)

No Entry (Stormbird Press, Australia, 2019)

King of the Class (NON Publishing, Vancouver, 2013)

Gila is excited to publish her 5th book, a suspense thriller entitled: With A Good Eye, (AOS Publishing, Montreal this coming August). You can pre-order the Novel here. 

Lastly, Gila has been in several articles and podcasts, including her most recent interview with Distinctions, a piece brought up several times throughout our episode. 

To get in touch with Gila, feel free to check out her website, and make sure to check out her new TikTok and Instagram where she makes fun cooking videos with her kids!

As always, I would love to delve into it with you. So please feel free to visit @talesoftamar on Instagram to expand the conversation and hear updates about future episodes.

Thank you for listening!

On June 11, 2003, Sarri Singer was on Bus 14 in Jerusalem when an 18-year-old Palestinian terrorist dressed as a religious Jew boarded and blew himself up.

17 people were killed, including all those seated and standing around her, and over 100 people were injured. Sarri was hospitalized for two weeks and then returned to New Jersey to be with family.

Her story became high profile. She appeared on television stations such as CBS, FoxNews, CNN, and radio interviews. She spoke before Congressmen and Senators in Washington, D.C., and politicians in New York and New Jersey.

In September 2003 she returned to work and volunteering in Israel. In June 2004, she returned to the United States to take care of ongoing medical issues associated with her attack.

Sarri is the Founder and Director of Strength to Strength (www.stosglobal.org), which focuses on bringing together victims of terrorism together from around the world and assisting with long-term psychological needs.

Sarri has addressed audiences throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, and Israel and continues to share her unique insight into the ongoing struggle for victims of terror in Israel and around the world.

Now, in this episode, she addresses the Anything But Traditional community.

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

*** Please feel free to reach out regarding sponsorship, ad, and dedication opportunities.

Thank you for listening!

Today, Roxanne Weinberger joins Tamar for a pivotal and transparent conversation regarding Roxanne's life to date.

To say that no stone was left unturned would be an understatement as they addressed serious topics such as becoming religious as a teen/young adult, joining the IDF, aliyah, fertility, NICU babies, motherhood, and more.

While Roxanne shares her story of where she was on October 7th and its effect on her life, this story is much more than just about the ongoing current events.

It's about true resilience despite immense hardship.

It's about finding the helpers and becoming the helper.

It's about the land, the Torah, and the beauty of Israel.

Listen to Roxanne's story, feel her words, and connect.

This is truly an episode worth listening to.

Thank you for listening!

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

*** Please consider making a donation to help the evacuees from Yishuv Shlomit, the evacuees that Roxanne is personally working with, via Israel At War here.

Thank you for donating!

On October 7th, Israel was changed forever.

On October 8th, the world was changed forever as the somewhat more quiet and festering Antisemitism spread fiercely and rapidly all across the world.

Today, Tamar sits down with a student from The Ohio State University (who wishes to remain anonymous) for an in-depth and intense conversation about Antisemitism in the United States, and particularly on College Campuses.

In this episode, hear the real and raw experiences of being a student and the encounters this student and her friends have had to face, due to merely living their life as Jews.

Remember, this war is truly not just in Israel but worldwide.

How will you fight this war today?

Thank you for listening.

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

Looking forward to continuing the conversation!

Today, Tamar welcomes Adena Mark Kapon to the conversation.

Adina, the brilliant mind behind A to Z Events Israel, is the mother and wife of Chayalim, as well as the daughter of a victim of terror.

In this episode, Adena opens up about her family's journey, from growing up in New York to making Aliyah in 2004 with her 5 children; later bringing her sabra into the midst.

Although they never lived in Israel together, Adena shares how her passion for living in Israel stems from her mother's passion, earlier immigration, and the overwhelming support her family received from their community in Efrat during these dark hours.

Hear Adena's resilient spirit as she reflects on the phrase "Am Yisrael Chai," symbolizing the enduring strength of the Jewish people, their profound acts of kindness, and the unity she has witnessed, leaving us with a powerful message and hope for a brighter future.

Thank you for listening!

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

In this episode of "Anything But Traditional," we delve into the lives of three extraordinary individuals with unwavering dedication to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Host Tamar Ben Tzvi brings you an intimate and eye-opening look at their experiences during challenging times.

First up is Tom Eisenman, who recounts the moment he was called up during Simchat Torah and the profound sense of honor and Jewish pride that compelled him to serve. Tom emphasizes the importance of defending Israel, reminding us that the IDF plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation.

Next, we hear from Sam Cohen, an officer in the Home Front Command. Sam was in the United States when the conflict escalated and had to make the challenging journey back to Israel. He shares his experiences supporting the civilian sector during these tumultuous times and the heart-wrenching struggle of being separated from his family.

Finally, we meet Ariav Schlesinger, a commander and teacher specializing in the handling of bodies from war and disasters. Ariav's unique role in the IDF places him at the heart of some of the most difficult moments during times of conflict. He sheds light on the vital work he and his fellow soldiers do to honor and identify the fallen.

Join us for this episode that offers a window into the personal experiences, unwavering commitment, and deep-rooted dedication of these remarkable individuals who serve their country during challenging times. "Defending Israel: Stories from the IDF Frontlines" is a testament to the resilience and unity of the Israeli people.

Thank you for listening!

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

In this episode of "Anything But Traditional," we showcase the stories of five extraordinary military wives, the unsung heroes who stand strong as their husbands serve on the front lines.

These women face a multitude of challenges, from daily responsibilities to emotional strength, far beyond mere companionship.

Bazy Rubin, a mother of four, shares her journey of protecting her family from the media storm and the emotional impact of her husband's deployment.

Esther Krinkin, tells her journey of finding herself in an unexpected situation when her husband was called up as a reservist and highlights the significance of Israel as a safe haven for the Jewish people.

Nechama Eisenman, humorously reflects on her life before and during the war, managing increased responsibilities and anxiety in the absence of her husband (and best friend).

Talya Adler candidly discusses the impact of the war on her family and the importance of unity and hope during these trying times.

Adina Kestenbaum shares her experiences without her husband Netanel by her side, having to be adamant about putting her family first, and the experiences she's had during this time with her children.

Join us for a powerful episode to gain profound insight into the lives of these remarkable women, embodying resilience and unity, proving that even in adversity, love and support prevail.

**For updates and conversations about this episode, and more, follow me at @talesoftamar on Instagram.

In this episode, you'll hear heartfelt stories from parents with children serving in the Israeli army, individuals directly affected by the ongoing war, and educators dedicated to instilling the values of pride in being Jewish and Israeli.

They share their personal experiences, offering a poignant glimpse into the impact of this challenging period and the necessity of unity and making principled choices, even when comfort seems out of reach.

Join us for a moving and inspiring journey through the resilience and unwavering spirit of these remarkable individuals including:

Perry Smith from Ma'ale Adummim

Felicia Newman Azut from Ashdod

Rav Binyamin Kwalwasser, Executive Director of Lev L'Chayal

Rav Michael Olshin, Executive Director of Yeshivat Torat Shraga

Thank you for listening!

**For updates and conversations about these episodes follow me at @talesoftamar

Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, and family dynamics are no exception. In the Orthodox Jewish community, there's a common perception of what a traditional family should look like. But the truth is, families are as diverse as life itself, and it's time to create a more open and accepting space within our community.

If your family doesn't fit the mold, you're not alone.

Our mission is to initiate a conversation about Jewish families, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding for all. We want to inspire young families to rethink and reimagine what a thriving Orthodox Jewish family can be, even when facing adversity.

Join us as we explore the myriad paths that families have taken, both by choice and circumstance, to reach their unique destinations.

This is an original podcast by Tales Of.