The goal of this episode is simple: to understand why Shraga chose to start a Hesder program, why now, and why specifically within this yeshiva. Rather than speaking in broad terms, the rabbis open up about the thinking, responsibility, and long-term vision behind launching a program of this nature.

Throughout the conversation, they walk through what the Hesder program is intended to look like once it begins, and how Shraga plans to support students physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally throughout the entire experience. The discussion focuses on structure, guidance, balance, and the intentional systems being put in place to help students navigate this path in a healthy and grounded way.

This episode is meant to provide clarity and transparency — giving students and parents a real understanding of the ins and outs of a new Hesder program, who it’s meant for, and how Shraga is approaching its launch thoughtfully and responsibly.

Whether you’re a student considering a Hesder path in the future, a parent trying to understand your options, or someone interested in how yeshivot are responding to the moment we’re in, this episode offers an honest and meaningful look behind the scenes.

For questions or to learn more directly:

• Rabbi Michael Olshin – WhatsApp: 052-613-6735
• Rav Shlomy Eichler – WhatsApp: 054-334-1634

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’IYUN, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Taragin of Yeshivat HaKotel for an honest conversation about what happens when the structure of Yeshiva is no longer there - and how to build something that lasts beyond it.

Together, they explore the difference between routine and internal ownership, why so many people struggle once the “bubble” ends, and what it actually looks like to carry momentum into real life. This episode focuses on practical mindsets, sustainable habits, and playing the long game - so growth doesn’t peak in Israel, but continues long after the year ends.

If you are interested to buy a copy of Rabbi Taragin's Sefer you can email him [email protected] 



Follow Israel Gap Year:

Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d

Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/27syypmu

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rav David Milston, longtime leader of Midreshet HaRova, for a thoughtful conversation about what a year in Israel is supposed to lead to — not just during the year, but long after it ends.

Rav Milston reflects on his personal journey to Eretz Yisrael, the early years of building Midreshet HaRova, and what it takes to create an environment that shapes identity rather than just experience.

The conversation explores how students can stay meaningfully connected to Israel after leaving, what responsibility looks like in the moment Am Yisrael is living through, and how this year can serve as direction rather than a pause from real life.



This episode challenges listeners to see their year in Israel not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of a longer story they are meant to carry forward.

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Ben Leybovich to talk about how comparison and pressure have reshaped the way people experience personal and spiritual growth.

They explore why growth today often feels performative instead of personal, how constantly measuring ourselves against others leaves so many feeling stuck or behind, and what authentic growth can look like when it’s rooted in individuality rather than competition.

This conversation offers a healthier, more honest way to think about growth for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure they’re growing the “right” way.



Follow Israel Gap Year:

Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d

Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/27syypmu

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with four seminary ambassadors - Eden Fusman, Hodaya Greenwald, Rhyan Rackman, and Eliana Winer - for an honest conversation about the seminary application process.

Together, they talk about what was going through their minds when deciding where to apply, what confused or overwhelmed them most at the time, and the biggest surprises they experienced once they arrived in seminary.

The conversation also explores what actually matters when choosing a seminary, what students tend to focus on too much, and what advice they would give their younger selves during the application stage. The group shares practical insight for girls who are feeling unsure where they belong and offers guidance on how to find clarity when decisions feel overwhelming.

This episode is a must-listen for any student currently applying to seminary - and for parents who want a clearer, more honest picture of what the process really feels like.

Follow Israel Gap Year:

Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d

Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/27syypmu

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Dr. Noam Weinberg to talk about his exciting new initiative - the launch of a brand-new seminary opening this coming year: Midreshet Ora.

But this conversation goes deeper than just a school announcement. It’s an honest, inspiring look at:

• Why Rabbi Weinberg felt called to start a new seminary now
• What kind of personal and spiritual growth students should be focusing on during their year
• The type of support and environment that today’s Orthodox teens thrive in
• How seminary can be a launchpad for long-term identity, confidence, and connection to Torah

Rabbi Weinberg speaks openly about the mission behind Midreshet Ora and what he hopes students will take away - not just during their year in Israel, but for life.

Want to Learn More about Midreshet Ora?

Apply Now: https://www.midreshetora.com/applynow

Join Rabbi Weinberg’s Torah WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HSQG6FMdDth47HVThSc2Ld

Follow Israel Gap Year:

Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d

Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/27syypmu

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Shlomo Anapolle of JCT Machon Lev to break down the question every student is asking: Should you stay in Israel after your gap year? They discuss why so many students are considering staying, what staying in Israel actually means, the fears around career and college, how the landscape has changed for English-speaking students, and the practical steps to explore your options without pressure. Whether you’re just curious or seriously considering it, this conversation gives you real clarity on the mindset, the opportunities, and the next steps.

Rabbi Shlomo Anapolle - Director of JCT Machon Lev and Machon Tal’s International Programs

???? WhatsApp: +972 54-390-2681

???? Email: [email protected]

???? Interested in JCT programs: https://forms.monday.com/forms/19df1e5bef43bc2f93667a9e4b9b73a8?r=euc1

???? Website: https://www.jct.ac.il/en/ 

Checkout JCT on instagram @Jctinternational 

???? Instagram: tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d

???? Facebook: tinyurl.com/27syypmu

▶️ YouTube: tinyurl.com/ysxymr3w

???? Schedule a consultation: bookme.name/aviproctor

✉️ Sponsor an episode: [email protected]

In this season finale of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Ben Rapaport, co-founder of TRIO Academy, to talk about something that’s often overlooked during a student’s year in Israel:

How and when should you start thinking about your future career?

Your year in yeshiva or seminary is focused on spiritual growth — but it’s also the most pivotal time to begin asking the big questions about your direction in life. This episode is about starting that conversation the right way.

With years of experience guiding hundreds of students toward personal and professional clarity, Rabbi Rapaport shares tools and perspectives to help students make thoughtful, balanced decisions — without losing sight of their values.

In this episode, they discuss:

• Why your year in Israel is the ideal time to reflect on career direction
• The biggest mistakes students make when thinking about their future
• How to ask the right questions — even if you’re unsure where to start
• Balancing growth in ruchniyus with planning for your future
• The mindset that builds confidence without rushing big decisions

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Dani Kunstler of Yeshivat Torat Shraga to explore a question many yeshiva and seminary students quietly ask themselves:

Does the music I listen to actually affect me spiritually?

A gifted educator and musician, Rabbi Kunstler shares insights from years of experience speaking in various yeshivot and seminaries, where he’s helped students reflect more deeply on the soundtrack of their lives.

In this episode, they discuss:

• Why music isn’t neutral — and how it can shape your inner world
• Real-life stories from Rabbi Kunstler’s talks that left students thinking twice
• Rabbi Kunstler’s own background in music and how it informs his view
• The surprising ways music can support or stunt your growth during and after your year in Israel

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi and Rebbetzin Mayer from Tiferet Seminary to explore a powerful topic that doesn’t get talked about enough: the importance of seminary girls having a spiritual mentor — whether a rabbi or rebbetzin — both during their year in Israel and long after it ends.

Drawing from their own transformative relationships with their mentors, the Mayers discuss:

• Why girls also need a “rabbi figure” in their life
• What to do if you're in seminary and haven’t connected with someone yet
• How to build a meaningful spiritual relationship after you've already left Israel
• The difference these connections make — not just in seminary, but in life
• Real advice for students feeling like it's “too late” to find a mentor

This is a must-listen episode for seminary students, parents, educators — or anyone who believes in the power of lasting relationships in Jewish growth.