The Three-Match Club: Jenny's Matchmaker Journey

In this heartwarming episode of *Matchmaker, Matchmaker*, I sit down with the fabulous Jenny Sved an organic connector, community builder, and now... official member of the “Three Match Club!” 💫

Here’s what we schmoozed about:

🧩 How Jenny made her own match (yes, it counts!).                                                    🪑 The wedding seating switch that led to a marriage (and three kids!).                   ✈️ A LaGuardia Airport spark that took years to ignite but was totally worth it         🚌 Our spontaneous idea for a matchmaking bus! (Seriously, call me if you want to sponsor it.).                                                                                                                            💬 Why timing matters, why you shouldn't give up on a match, and why it’s okay if more than one person gets credit

We laughed, we dreamed, and we even redefined the rules of matchmaking (because someone has to and it might as well be me 😉).

🕊️ Whether you’ve made one match, three, or none yet you’ll walk away inspired to help create more love in the world.

✨ Let’s all aim for that “matchmaker mitzvah addiction” – because more love means more light in the world.

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Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

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In this episode, I sat down with the incredible Irit Esses psychologist, matchmaker, and leader of a powerful matchmaking community in Mexico City.

We dug into:

💫 Irit’s journey from dating struggles to 24+ successful matches
🛠️ The power of knowing your non-negotiables
👶 Inspiring stories, including matches that led to babies and cross-border love
❤️ Be a “vitamin person” uplift the singles in your life before pressuring them to date 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Talking to Irit felt like talking to myself, we have so much in common! Her wisdom, spunk, and vibrant energy are changing lives and I hope her story inspires you to be part of the change too.   

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Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

In this episode, I’m joined by Shirel  a digital nomad with Indian-Israeli roots, a spicy palate, and a heart full of Jewish values.

We talked about one of my favorite philosophies: “Date ‘Em Til You Hate ‘Em” giving people a real chance, staying open, and learning about yourself in the process.

Shirel shared:

•⁠  ⁠Her dating journey across Tel Aviv and Philly
•⁠  ⁠How October 7th deepened her Jewish identity
•⁠  ⁠What she’s looking for: someone kind, curious, and adventurous (hot air balloon optional 😉)

💌 If you know someone who might be a match for Shirel, send them our way. Because we believe anyone can make a match.

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

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In this episode of Matchmaker Matchmaker, I introduce you to Andrew a kind, thoughtful, and very real single man in his mid 30's from Philadelphia 🐾💬

We dive into his dating story, and here’s what we covered:

Why family values are at the heart of what he’s looking for ❤️

The role cultural compatibility plays in lasting love

His love for dogs and why shared interests matter 🐶

Why he’s focused on finding someone in Philly or close by 🏙️

His take on dating timelines and how soon is too soon to talk engagement 💍

💡 I also offer some insights of my own and as always, I invite you to be part of the matchmaking magic.

💞 Know someone who might be a match for Andrew?
Watch, share, and tag them below you just might help create a love story 🫶

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

This episode is full of ruach (spirit), inspiration, and classic Jewish geography the kind where one introduction leads to another and suddenly, the world feels small and deeply connected.

I sat down with the radiant and talented Maskit, sister of Tair, from Jack’s Jewish Journey to hear her story of spiritual growth, creativity, and finding clarity in the chaos of modern dating.

✨ In this conversation, we talk about:

🌏 Growing up between Israel, Australia, and now NYC and what each place taught her

🎬 Her love for film, media, and using storytelling to bring light into the Jewish world

✡️ What sparked her return to observance and how Shabbat changed everything

❤️ Her honest reflections on dating non-Jews, finding her “why,” and choosing a Jewish future

🧭 What she’s looking for now: someone who’s grounded, God-conscious, and ready to build

🗽 Life in New York City and how she’s navigating the fast-paced dating scene with grace and clarity

And yes she’s single, she’s glowing, and she’s ready to meet someone who’s growing in the same direction.

🎯 We also dive into modesty, mitzvot, and what it really means to grow into observance without pressure just purpose.

This episode is full of energy, laughter, emunah (faith), and real talk about choosing a partner and a path.

💌 Want to be introduced to Maskit? Reach out through me maybe you’re her next match 😉

👉 Listen, share, and let’s keep building this global Jewish matchmaking movement one meaningful conversation at a time.

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with not one but two amazing guests: Jason Pfeiffer, Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, and Jen Miller, New York Times journalist and author. Not only are they accomplished professionals, but they’ve also been happily married for 13 years. We dive deep into the heart of their relationship and what it means to truly build a life and a legacy together.

💬 Here's what we covered:

💑 How they met on OkCupid after both navigating long-term breakups

🧠 The beauty of collaborating on writing projects and giving each other feedback

🎯 Why they created a mission statement for their marriage (yes, really and I love it!)

🕊️ How they keep their individual passions alive while working toward shared goals

✡️ Jen’s beautiful idea to start a “Shabbat Club” and connect with their Jewish roots

💬 Honest talk about compromise, communication, and maintaining your own identity in a thriving partnership

This conversation is full of gems whether you're single, dating, or deep into a committed relationship. Jason and Jen model what it means to be partners not just in love, but in life and purpose.

👉 Tune in, take notes, and share this one with someone who believes in love and big dreams.

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

In this episode, I’m joined by Linnea, the host of a unique Jewish dating game show in New York City, where singles are matched live on stage at the Caveat Theater and other venues. Linnea gives us an inside look at the matchmaking process, which emphasizes genuine connections and the importance of community.

We dive into:
🎤 The behind-the-scenes of the dating game and how it really works 
💘 How the live audience plays a crucial role in the matchmaking experience
🤝 The thrilling blind dates that unfold between two main contestants each show
❤️ Linnea’s personal love story with her husband, Paul, and their joint involvement in the show’s production

We also explore Jewish culture, the challenges of matchmaking, and the importance of creating meaningful, lasting connections.

🔔 Tune in for a fascinating episode that brings the world of live matchmaking to life in NYC. 

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

In this episode of the Matchmaker Matchmaker Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Howie Danao—a soulful Jewish musician and convert with an extraordinary story. We first met by chance in Germany, and I knew right away his journey needed to be shared.

Howie opens up about:

🌍 Growing up with a Filipino mother and being adopted by a Jewish family in Israel

🕊️ His identity struggles and powerful conversion story

🎶 How music became his mission and a tool for healing

❤️ His dating journey and the kind of partner he’s looking for

📺 His new project, The Love and Faith Show, born from his personal journey

✡️ Why faith, storytelling, and connection are at the center of his life

This conversation will move you, uplift you, and remind you that every story matters. Whether you're searching for love, faith, or your own purpose—there’s something here for you.

👉 Watch the full episode and share it with someone who needs to hear this story. You could be the reason they find clarity, connection, or even love.

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

In this heartfelt episode, I chat with Jack and Tair from Melbourne, Australia—an inspiring couple whose love story began in the most unexpected way: as lockdown roommates! Now, Jack is on a powerful path toward converting to Judaism, and their journey together is nothing short of remarkable.

We talk about:
🏡 How a global pandemic turned two strangers into partners
🕊 Jack’s spiritual awakening and what led him to pursue Judaism
🤝 The support and connection they’ve built through shared religious growth
🛡 The challenges Jack faces as a convert—including anti-Semitism—and how community gives him strength

This episode is all about love, identity, and finding where you truly belong.
🔔 Tune in for a raw and uplifting conversation—and follow Jacksjewishjourney on Instagram for more!

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/

🎙 500 dates with comedian Eric Neumann

In this episode, I sit down with comedian Eric Neumann to explore his unique dating experiences and perspectives on love and relationships. Eric opens up about his journey, including his extensive history of over 500 dates and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.

We discuss:
💔 The complexities of dating and the importance of avoiding infatuation
⏳ The benefits of taking things slow in relationships
🎯 Aleeza's Five Date Challenge to help deepen connections
🎤 Eric’s standup comedy career and how social media has shaped his success

This episode is a deep dive into the intersections of dating, comedy, and personal growth.

🔔 Tune in for a fun, enlightening conversation that blends humor with heart!

Support the show

Contact Aleeza Ben Shalom https://marriagemindedmentor.com/
Contact Rabbi Yisroel Bernath https://www.theloverabbi.com/

Submit a Question for the Matchmaker, Matchmaker Podcast https://marriagemindedmentor.com/podcast/