Behind the Bima

Rivka Ravitz is an Israeli Haredi political administrator. Since 1999, she has worked for Israeli politician Reuven Rivlin, first as his bureau chief and campaign adviser, and, since his election as President of Israel in 2014, as his chief of staff. She has received extensive media coverage for being a Haredi mother of 12 in a high-profile political position.

00:00 - Intro
15:16 - Interview
1:04:14 - Outro

Join us for an illuminating interview with the legendary music producer, David Fishof. Dive deep into the life of an industry leader who's not only shaped the world of music and sports but has also been a proud representative of the Jewish community. Discover how David's rich heritage, from his father's survival in Auschwitz to the rabbis in his family, influenced his career choices and the way he views the world. Learn about his innovative ventures, such as rock and roll fantasy camps, and hear firsthand stories of how he's changed lives through music. This is more than just a tale of success in the entertainment industry; it's a story of faith, resilience, and the power of giving back. 

00:00 - Intro 
13:12 - Interview 
1:07:13 - Outro

Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis Wolff is known for her significant contributions to the Jewish community and her inspiring teachings. She was the daughter of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis, founder of the organization Hineni. Following in her mother's footsteps, Rebbetzin Slovie became a prominent speaker, educator, and author. Throughout her life, Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis Wolff focused on spreading Jewish wisdom and values to people of all ages. She emphasized the importance of maintaining strong family bonds, fostering spirituality, and finding purpose in life. Her teachings often revolved around building meaningful relationships and connecting with one's faith. 

Rebbetzin Slovie also authored several books, including "Raising A Child With Soul" and "The Committed Life." These books offer guidance to individuals seeking to live more purposeful and fulfilling lives within the framework of Jewish tradition. Her engaging speaking style and ability to connect with diverse audiences made her a sought-after speaker at events, seminars, and lectures worldwide. Rebbetzin Slovie Jungreis Wolff's impact on the Jewish community and her dedication to promoting timeless values have left a lasting legacy. 

00:00 - Intro 
16:45 - Interview 
1:08:38 - Outro

Featuring: 

• 5:05 - R' Leo Dee, Inspirational Speaker 
  9:36 - Rav Yitzchak Berkovits, Rosh Yeshiva of Aish HaTorah 
  12:00 - R' Mordechai Machlis, Host of Hundreds of guests each Shabbos 
  31:40 - Rav Yecheskel Weinfeld, Rav and Rosh Kollel of Beis Medresh Lev Avrohom 
  40:38 - R' Judah Mischel, Exec Director of HASC, Mashpia of the OU 
  43:00 - R' Avi Schneider, Menahel Toras Shraga 
  45:42 - Rav Shaul Alter, Gerrer Rosh Yeshiva 
  53:08 - Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz, Rosh Yeshiva and Mekubal

Rabbi Dr. Meir Soloveichik is a prominent Orthodox Jewish rabbi and scholar known for his contributions to Jewish education, religious leadership, and interfaith dialogue. He was born in 1977 and is a member of the renowned Soloveitchik rabbinic dynasty, which has produced several influential Jewish thinkers and religious leaders. Rabbi Soloveichik serves as the Rabbi of Congregation Shearith Israel, the oldest Jewish congregation in the United States, located in New York City. 

He is also the director of the Zahava and Moshael Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought at Yeshiva University, where he is involved in teaching and guiding students in the study of Jewish philosophy and law. With a strong academic background, Rabbi Soloveichik holds a Ph.D. in Religion from Princeton University and has published numerous articles and essays on Jewish thought, ethics, and theology. He combines his scholarly expertise with a deep commitment to his faith and a passion for engaging with contemporary issues. 

Rabbi Soloveichik has been an advocate for religious freedom and has played an active role in interfaith dialogue, particularly between the Jewish and Catholic communities. He has addressed various audiences, including academic conferences, religious organizations, and public forums, where he shares insights on Judaism, ethics, and the intersection of religion and public life. Known for his eloquence and intellectual rigor, Rabbi Soloveichik is respected for his ability to articulate complex ideas in a clear and accessible manner. His teachings often emphasize the importance of religious tradition, ethics, and the role of faith in shaping personal and communal life. 

Overall, Rabbi Dr. Meir Soloveichik is a highly regarded figure in the Jewish community, recognized for his leadership, scholarship, and dedication to promoting understanding and dialogue between different religious traditions. 

00:00 - Intro 
15:22 - Interview 
1:27:10 - Outro

Filmed live on location at HASC. 

 Introduction With Uri Butler

Shmiel Kahn, Camp Director 

Rav Avi Pollak, Program Director & Dr Rayzel Yaish, Women’s Head Counselor

 Matti Modes, Camper 

Dr Dina Davidovics & Alyssa Sacks, Medical Director 

Eitan Auerbach & Ora Hochberg - Assistant Division Heads

Rav Kivi Naiman, Alumni Coordinator & Jonah Schachter, Staff Alumnus 

Judah Mischel, Executive Director

Natan Sharansky is a remarkable figure whose life story embodies the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Born Anatoly Borisovich Shcharansky on January 20, 1948, in Donetsk, Ukraine (formerly part of the Soviet Union), he later changed his name to Natan Sharansky. Sharansky's journey began as a gifted mathematician and chess player, which led him to pursue a career in science. However, his life took an unexpected turn when he became deeply involved in the Soviet dissident movement during the 1970s, advocating for human rights and freedom of expression. In 1977, Sharansky was arrested by the KGB on fabricated charges of espionage and treason. He was subjected to intense interrogations and endured nine years of imprisonment, including long periods of solitary confinement. 

Despite the harsh conditions, Sharansky remained steadfast in his commitment to his beliefs, becoming an iconic symbol of resistance against Soviet oppression. Sharansky's plight gained international attention, and he became a cause célèbre for human rights organizations and activists around the world. His wife, Avital, spearheaded an international campaign advocating for his release, and their love story became a symbol of resilience and unwavering commitment. Finally, in 1986, after years of international pressure and negotiations, Sharansky was released as part of a high-profile prisoner exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union. His arrival in Israel marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. In Israel, Sharansky became an influential political leader and advocate for democracy and human rights. 

He served as a Member of Knesset (the Israeli parliament) and held several ministerial positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade. Sharansky's extraordinary journey from prisoner to statesman has made him a sought-after speaker and an inspiration to people from all walks of life. He has written several books, including his memoir "Fear No Evil," which chronicles his experiences and his unwavering commitment to freedom. 

Today, Natan Sharansky continues to be a passionate advocate for democracy, human rights, and the State of Israel. His unwavering belief in the power of the individual to effect change serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who face oppression and injustice. On the Behind the Bima podcast, Natan Sharansky's life story and insights will undoubtedly captivate and inspire listeners, reminding them of the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. 

00:00 - Intro 
13:45 - Interview 
1:09:12 - Outro

Joey's journey in the music industry began in his youth, as he started performing at local events and gatherings. His talent quickly gained recognition, and he became a sought-after performer in the Jewish music scene. With his distinctive vocal range and heartfelt delivery, Joey's performances resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impact.

Drawing inspiration from various musical genres, including pop, rock, and soul, Joey incorporates diverse elements into his music. His lyrics often reflect his Jewish faith and values, providing listeners with a meaningful and spiritual experience. Through his songs, Joey aims to uplift, inspire, and connect with people on a deep level.
 

00:00 - Intro
3:11 - Interview
57:23 - Outro

Rabbi Efrem Goldberg: Rabbi, Boca Raton Synagogue (BRS). 

Zvi Gluck is the CEO of Amudim, an organization dedicated to helping abuse victims and those suffering from addiction within the Jewish community, and has been heavily involved in crisis intervention and management for the past 20 years. 

00:00 - Intro 
12:40 - Interview 
1:03:37 - Outro

In this episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg goes Behind the Bima with special guest host Yocheved Goldberg to talk shidduchim with Lisa Elefant, founder of Adopt-a-Shadchan. 

They get into

• what is working
• what is broken
• should we nix the pics
• what are good reference questions
• what makes a good shadchan, speed dating 
• & much more.

We hope you enjoy!

00:00 - Intro
13:13 - Interview
1:18:39 - Outro