So much of Chabad history is based in Ukraine, coupled with the personal connections Mendy and Eliezer currently have in that besieged region. With the war still raging, a fascinating conversation ensues, complete with stories and anecdotes, bringing it all to life.

NOTE: Since the situation in Ukraine continues to change from minute to minute, our conversation may not reflect up to date information about the predicament of our friends there.

Eliezer caught some flack for tweeting that people should stop visiting Auschwitz, and Mendy vehemently disagreed with him from an emotional and also an existential perspective. Listen to both sides of this somber subject, and come away with a better appreciation for how the Holocaust shaped the Jewish world today and into the future.

Mendy shares memories and lessons from the life of his grandfather, Rabbi Dovid Moshe Lieberman, whose shiva concludes this week. From Holocaust survivor to world renowned rabbi and halachic authority, and above all a proud Chossid and family man.

The Mishnah (Avot 2:5) says, "A bashful person cannot learn, a short-tempered person cannot teach." Mendy and Eliezer discuss their efforts (and challenges) with both sides of this important teaching, how asking questions is the key to learning, and how being available to respond is the key to being good-natured. 

Bonus: Weather report for Turkey in January.

Mendy and Eliezer get personal about their life-long struggles with weight and how they continue to overcome their individual challenges by living healthy and active lifestyles. Learn how the same tools recommended to push yourself to exercise can be applied to Jewish observance and Torah learning. And how you can actually learn Torah while working out.