Chavie opens by asking her mother how she feels about Chavie sharing her life so openly on social media. They then go on to talk about the fascinating connection Rivkie’s father had with the Lubavitcher Rebbe during his time in Paris while the family was trying to emigrate to America. Chavie asks her mom how she sustains her energy and commitment through forty years of leading Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas with her husband, Rabbi Chaim Block. Rivkie talks about evolving from the wide-eyed idealism of youth to a more grounded acceptance of challenges as opportunities for growth. Chavie shares a childhood story she’s never told before, and Rivkie speaks about her determination to keep working and growing despite societal expectations around age and aging.

Rivkie Block was born and raised in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, and serves as the co-founder and director of Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas, which she and her husband, Rabbi Chaim Block, established 40 years ago. She is also the founder and director of the Gan Ganni Preschool in San Antonio, which she launched 36 years ago, that focuses on nurturing each child’s individual spirit and creativity. Rivkie and Rabbi Chaim are the proud parents of nine children, all of whom serve as Chabad emissaries around the world.

Referenced on the Pod

37:30 Montana Chai Anniversary Video Series

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Today’s episode is dedicated by Lewis and Maggie Sperber who have become dear friends and committed supporters of our work in Montana. Lewis and Maggie love that this podcast is a space for authentic Jewish conversations, honest debate on contemporary issues, and helps people feel connected in this journey we call life.