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/

In this episode, I sit down with New York-based comedian and “Up Dating Show” host, Brandon Berman. He shares how a single photo led him from pandemic dating to a serious relationship—nearly an engagement!

We cover:
 📸 A photo that sparked real connection
 ❤️ Balancing differences in relationships
 🌿 Managing anxiety with love and support
 🧩 The beauty of slow, intentional dating
 🎤 How men can handle rejection and date with clarity

👉 Tune in for a heartwarming and hilarious take on finding love where you least expect it.

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 special episode, I sit down with my in-laws, Fran and Sid Schwartz, who have been married for 63 years! We dive into the secrets of a long-lasting marriage, the importance of shared values, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

We talk about:
💍 The humorous way Sid proposed
💡 How background and values play a role in a strong relationship
❤️ The key to navigating roles, responsibilities, and communication in marriage
👩‍❤️‍👨 Advice for younger couples looking to build a lasting partnership

I also reflect on the impact they’ve had on my own life and family—because when it comes to love, experience speaks volumes.

🔔 Tune in for heartwarming stories, timeless wisdom, and plenty of laughs!

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/

🎙 Love, Music, and Taking a Chance with Yoni Z & Ashley Eden

In this episode, I sit down with Yoni Ziegelbaum , better known as Yoni Z, a popular singer, and his fiancée Ashley Eden, who works in FinTech. Freshly engaged, they share their love story—full of unexpected twists, big decisions, and the persistence it takes to find "the one."

We talk about:
🎤 Yoni’s journey in music
✈️ Ashley’s bold decision
❤️ The challenges they faced early on and how they finally connected

Their story is a reminder that love doesn’t always follow a straight path—but when it’s meant to be, everything falls into place.

🔔 Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, gratitude, and the magic of finding your match!

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/

🎙 Finding Love in the Social Media Age with Libby Amber Shayo

In this episode I’m joined by newlywed Libby Amber Shayo, who shares her love story—how she met her husband through her social media presence and her now brother-in-law.

We chat about:
❤️ Tips for dating influencers
📱 How she balances social media and her relationship, OY!
⏸️ Why taking breaks from dating can actually help

Whether you wanna date an influencer or are just curious about love in the digital age, this episode is for you.

🔔 Tune in now—I can’t wait for you to hear this one!

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 sit down with Ilana and Jake to chat about their relationship journey—how they met, what keeps their connection strong, and the little things that make love last.

We dive into:

💘 Their Hinge love story and first date moments

🎟️ The creative ‘date card’ activities and spontaneous trips that keep things exciting

😂 A hilariously awkward first kiss story (and how Elana made theirs unforgettable)

🗣️ The power of communication, fun, and support in a relationship

🎙️ Ilana’s insights as a podcast host and dating coach on vulnerability and authenticity in dating

This episode is full of laughs, love, and real talk about what makes relationships truly work.

🔔 Tune in and get inspired to bring more fun and connection into your own love life!

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/