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As we prepare for Yom Kippur, we speak with Joseph Gitler about his son-in-law, David Schwartz HY”D—a ben Torah, law student, and IDF reservist in Handasah Kravit (combat engineering) who fell in Khan Younis on January 8, 2024 alongside his chavrusa Yakir Hexter HY”D. Joseph shares how David wove together strong learning with real-world duty, his years in Gush Etzion, his time at Reichman University law school, his gift for connecting across communities, and what it means to mourn while still choosing life and responsibility. We also hear about ongoing projects in David’s memory and the weekly Divrei Torah initiative that now reaches thousands. Links ⁠To join the David Schwartz Divrei Torah chat⁠⁠To watch the video from the Azkara⁠ Highlights Ben Torah in the world: David’s learning (Kli Yakar chavrusas, steady seder) and his drive to serve—both in the IDF and potentially in public service. Bridging worlds: Deep ties across communities (yeshiva, Chassidus, secular campus). Seeking dialogue without blurring values. Reichman law school: Culture shock, principled debate during the judicial protests, and the value of hearing people who think differently. Army service: Training, multiple rotations in Gaza with Tzanhanim commandos; pride in the unit’s work despite the dangers. January 8, 2024: The incident in Khan Younis; community and family response; what shiva looked like for parents of the almanah. National resilience: “The whole country has PTSD.” Practical takeaways: watch your friends and kids; speak up when you see someone struggling; get help involved. Living memory: A sefer of David’s Torah (written in yeshiva), a growing weekly parsha sheet in Hebrew and English, shul/Beit Midrash renovations, and a loans fund for farmers and soldiers—projects that carry his light forward.

With tremendous historical events unfolding, I couldn’t record a regular episode.This moment demanded more than another interview, it called for guidance and clarity. What does this new chapter in our history mean?What is our role right now?How do we balance the whirlwind of emotions — gratitude, pain, pride, and confusion — that we’re all feeling? I was grateful that Rav Moshe Taragin agreed to join me once again to help unpack these questions.There’s truly no one who combines such deep Torah knowledge with historical awareness and a living connection to Am Yisrael. Together, we explore how to: Hold joy and grief at the same time Express real hakaras hatov — to Hashem, to soldiers, to each other See the hand of Hashem in political and military reality Understand what this nes demands of us A special, timely conversation for anyone trying to make sense of this historic moment. Click Here to order Rav Taragins book 'Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below' about the events of October 7th and the ensuing war.

You don’t have to love your job—but you can’t hate it.Rabbi Yehuda Halpert (shul rabbi, Big Law attorney, author) joins Shtark Tank to talk straight about Torah life inside a 90-hour week, setting real standards, and why reassessing is different than slipping. What You'll Hear How a Ben Torah can thrive in Big Law without losing the plot “Slipping vs. reassessing” — setting honest standards after yeshiva The Mincha hack that anchors your day (and your network) Peer pressure at the office: values, money, and role models Balancing a Shabbos-only pulpit with a full-time firm role Lessons from COVID that helped after Oct 7 Career calling vs. community calling: picking your tafkid Guest Bio Rabbi Yehuda Halpert — shul rabbi in Teaneck, Big Law lawyer, and author of Speaking to an Empty Shul: Timeless Lessons from Unprecedented Times. Quick Takeaways Build a system that works with your schedule Guard your company — work with good people Use Mincha as a daily reset and natural networking moment Review your standards every 6–12 months; adjust with intentYou can be excellent at your craft and strong in your values Did you enjoy this episode? Follow Shtark Tank on Spotify and rate the show (it really helps). Share this episode with a friend Join the Shtark Tank WhatsApp group for episode drops and Q&A (link in show notes).

Last week’s episode hit a nerve.Some listeners loved it. Others were really bothered by it. So for the first time ever, we’re doing a feedback episode — bringing back Rav Yehuda Halpert to go deeper on the toughest questions you raised.Is the culture of Big Law really compatible with Torah values?What does it take to survive — or grow — spiritually in that world?And how do we weigh ambition, family, and avodas Hashem when the hours never end? In this follow-up: Years 1–3: the “conveyor belt” and why control is limited When to pivot — and how to choose a practice that protects Shabbos The billable-hour trap and what it does to your mind Can you ever “limit your hours” and still advance? Real talk on money, promotions, and gam zu l’tovah Shabbos at the firm: teamwork, gratitude, and derech eretz Marbitz Torah without a title — from shiurim to writing Harsh listener feedback: “For what are these costs worth paying?” Hashkafic tension: excellence vs. moderation Marriage, parenting, and faith when energy and time are scarce If you appreciate these kinds of raw, honest conversations, follow Shtark Tank and leave a 5-star review — it helps others find the show and keeps these dialogues going.

As we mark the yahrzeit of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, we’re remembering him through the eyes of two working Bnei Torah who knew him personally — not as a public icon, but as a mentor, a mensch, and a man of deep humility. Joe Hyams spent his late teens driving Rabbi Sacks to events across London. From the front seat, he saw the balance between majesty and modesty. “He carried himself with a regal sense of presence — yet he’d be the one holding the door open for you.” Joe describes the long, quiet drives before speeches, the relaxed warmth afterward, and how those moments shaped his own path in Torah, family, and career. David Frei, a London lawyer and communal leader, became one of Rabbi Sacks’ trusted editors. He saw the scholar behind the sermons — “a brilliant writer and a brilliant orator,” who read a new book every night and took feedback with humility. David recalls those tense early-2000s years and how Rabbi Sacks emerged stronger, turning personal trials into a wider moral voice for faith and reason. Together, their memories reveal a side of Rabbi Sacks rarely seen — deeply human, endlessly curious, and quietly transformative. Select Quotes: “He could speak to you without speaking. His smile was sharp love — piercing, serious, and full of warmth all at once.” “He showed that Torah, integrity, and professional success aren’t separate worlds — they can and should live together.”

What do you do when your day job feels empty — but you still need to show up, provide, and stay honest? In this episode of Shtark Tank, I sit down with my cousin and friend Yoni Schwartz — Head of Data Science at Exponential and Head Producer of Living L’chaim. Yoni shares how he went from a corporate role that felt like “a complete lack of purpose” to leading 10 shows that have inspired and helped countless people. He is also the host of Spirit of the Song podcast, make sure to check it out! We talk about meaning, ambition, family, and the real-life tradeoffs of building something big on top of a demanding day job. In this conversation we cover: What it feels like when work is steady… but meaningless How Yoni first joined Living L’chaim and how the role grew over time The ethics of balancing a primary job with major side projects Startup life vs. corporate life — and what actually changed for him How he manages two intense roles without a rigid system The idea of intentionality as a survival tool for busy people Setting boundaries after COVID blurred everything Early morning learning as a realistic anchor for fathers with young kids The impact Living L’chaim aims for — inspiration, mental health, and financial clarity Cultivating a relationship with your Rebbi Key takeaway:You don’t need a perfect system to juggle a lot — but you do need honesty, priorities, and intentional choices you can live with. If this episode resonated, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a 5-star rating. It helps more Bnei Torah in the workforce find these conversations. Guest: Yoni SchwartzHost: Yaakov Wolff

It’s Chanukah — the season of miracles. But what about the “miracles” we’re watching unfold in our own lifetime… through technology? In this special Chanukah episode, I’m joined by Mois Navon, also known as the “Mobileye Rabbi.” Mois has spent decades in high-tech and decades learning and teaching Torah — and in this conversation he helps us think clearly about innovation, awe, ethics, and where all of this may be heading. In this episode we discuss: Why Mois is called the “Mobileye Rabbi” (and how it started with lunch table conversations) What Judaism actually says about innovation and building new technology A powerful Torah framing: technology as a mandate to improve the world The other side: limits, guardrails, and ethics (and why it matters more than ever) Noach as the first engineer — and why the plow changed human history Is new tech really a “miracle,” or just human creativity inside nature? The dangers of modern tools (social media, AI, and more) — and the case for self-control Are we living in unprecedented times? The “Geulah” question: what do Torah sources suggest about a future of automation and abundance? Practical advice for building the right “muscles” for the world our kids may grow up in Links & resources: Mois Navon’s website (500+ shiurim + source sheets): link here Mois’s article on Judaism, technology, and ethics: link here If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe and leave a rating — it helps more people find Shtark Tank. About Mois Navon Mois Navon is one of the founding engineers of Mobileye, where he designed the EyeQ family of SoC (System On a Chip) – the chip powering the autonomous vehicle revolution.  Mois is also an ordained rabbi who has published numerous articles on Jewish law and lore.  Working at the intersection of Torah U’Madda, he received his PhD from the department of Jewish Philosophy at Bar Ilan University wherein his dissertation applies Jewish philosophy to address the ethical questions arising in the field of artificial intelligence.  In this vein, he teaches a course on “Ethics in Artificial Intelligence” at Ben Gurion University.  He is also a National Advisor to the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology on Artificial Intelligence Policy and Regulation in Israel. 

Gratitude is usually talked about after things work out. This episode is about learning it while you’re still in it. In honor of Chanukah, 'days of praise and thanks', Dan Cohen shares what it was like to go from a full, busy professional life to an unexpected spinal surgery and 90 days in a rehab ward — right in the middle of a national crisis. Not a dramatic story.Not a miracle tale. A real look at what gratitude means when: your plans fall apart your body isn’t cooperating your work and identity are put on pause Dan reflects on letting go of expectations, staying present when the future is unclear, and learning that gratitude isn’t about being happy — it’s about recognizing that this moment is where you’re meant to be. A Chanukah episode about small light, honest praise, and finding steadiness in ordinary challenges that many professionals quietly carry. We also talk about how writing Divrei Torah was an anchor for Dan during during his hardest times. More From Dan Check out Dan's firm, FCP Communications here To read Dan's Divrei Torah To learn more about Geerz, click here

This week on Shtark Tank, we’re opening the mailbag to dive into the conversations, questions, and insights sparked by our recent episodes. We explore what it really means to be an eved Hashem , a professional , and a family man in a fast-paced world. In this episode, we discuss: The "Millstone" of Marriage: Does our Avodas Hashem fundamentally change once we have families? We look at the Gemara in Kiddushin about learning before vs. after marriage. Work as a "Calling": Is the idea of self-fulfillment at work a modern invention? We trace the sources from the Chovas HaLevavos to modern corporate culture. Savoring the Steak: Why we should treat a line of Gemara like a juicy steak and how to handle the stress of "not learning enough" in a vast sea of Torah. Torah as an Antidote: A deep dive into the Netziv on why the Torah critiques Yosef’s beauty and how geshmak learning is the ultimate protection against the yetzer hara. The AI Future: If AI takes over our jobs, will we actually have the focus to "study God" all day? The Aliyah Struggle: Facing the "rational" vs. "emotional" challenges of making the move to Israel. Support the Show:If you enjoyed this episode, please hit Subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps us reach more listeners like you!

What does real success look like when you’re trying to stay grounded as a Ben Torah? In this episode of Shtark Tank, I sat down with Laizer Kornwasser — CEO of DrFirst, professor at Yeshiva University, and Chairman of NCSY — for a wide-ranging conversation about ambition, pressure, leadership, and the Torah ideas that shape how we show up at work and in life. Laizer shares stories from investment banking and the C-suite, including how he learned to earn his “seat at the table” through facts, results, and humility. We talk about drawing clear lines when work clashes with Shabbos, why most people aren’t cut out for investment banking, and how to define success in a way that protects your priorities. Then we shift into a deep dive on the Altar of Slabodka: Gadlus HaAdam, EQ vs IQ, gratitude, and the power of seeing each person as an individual with real potential. And yes — we get into the now-famous practice: why Laizer handwrites 1,000 New Year’s cards and sends personal thank-you messages one-by-one, and what it teaches about hakaras hatov, relationships, and leadership. In this episode, we cover: Why investment banking is “not cut out for most people” What “success” really means when you’re trying to grow in Yiddishkeit The importance of knowing your line in the sand (and not crossing it) A real story: a CEO tried to push Shabbos boundaries — and Laizer’s response “Facts, not emotion”: how to communicate with different personalities The Altar of Slabodka’s approach to building people, not just teaching Torah EQ as a Jewish leadership skill, not just a business buzzword Why Laizer sends personal thank-yous instead of mass messages Chesed that actually changes you (not just “check-writing”) If you got value from this episode, please take 10 seconds to subscribe and leave a 5-star rating — it helps more people find the show.

In this Shovavim special, I sat down with marriage coach Aaron Zakowski for a direct and practical conversation about what it really means to be a Jewish husband and father in today’s world. We talk about: Why emotional safety matters as much as financial stability The mistake many men make when they try to “fix” instead of listen How long work hours affect marriage—and what actually helps Why your value as a Jewish man does not come from your paycheck What most chassan classes don’t prepare you for How marriage changes at different stages of life Stress, self-esteem, and why men need support too Creating closeness at home without needing more time in the day Resources Aaron on Instagram Beyond The Chassan Class (Webinar) Shalom Bayis Daily (Whatsapp Group) You can reach Aaron at [email protected]

Is it possible to grow in Torah and business at the same time? Last week, I sat down with Moe Mernick, Ben Lang, and Michael Bloch to talk it through — live, in front of an energetic crowd of 50+ growth-oriented leaders, at the offices of DLA Piper Israel in Tel Aviv. The “excuse” for the gathering was Moe’s new book, Conversations with Jewish Business Leaders — and the conversation went way beyond the book. We discussed: What success really means (and why it can’t be one-size-fits-all) Why success isn’t about money — and how to build a life that actually feels aligned Meaning at work, mid-career “what am I doing with my life?” moments, and the idea of learn / earn / return How side projects can turn into real impact Staying strong in the lows: imposter syndrome, mentors, community, and keeping perspective Spiritual growth in the busy years: fixed learning times, realistic goals, balancing “heart” and “mind,” and accountability Order Conversations with Jewish Business Leaders here. Big thank you to the event hosts and sponsors: DLA Piper Israel and Yeshiva University Israel.

Super Bowl week is here, and as Bnei Torah, we can't avoid asking a hard question: what is sports doing to our time, our headspace, and our Avodas Hashem? In this episode of Shtark Tank, I sit down with Rav Moshe Benovitz (Director of NCSY Kollel) for a real, nuanced conversation about loving sports without losing yourself in it—including the famous story of a Super Bowl night in Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavne where he made a deep decision to skip the game. We talk about: When sports is healthy… and when it starts to take over “Must-see TV,” compulsion, and where to draw the line Sports as a “religious” experience (arenas as temples) What Torah educators and marketers can learn from the NFL’s pull Community, purpose, and building a mission-driven life A fun detour into Bill Simmons and why sports can create real connection

In this episode, I sit down with Yossi (Joseph) Landes—President and co-founder of Nerdio (a unicorn), and a 23-year veteran of Microsoft. But this conversation isn’t mainly about startups. It’s about growing in Gemara when you don’t see yourself as “the best learner,” and building a life where Torah stays at the center—through airports, moves abroad, pressure, and big responsibility. We talk about: “I might be the worst learner in the whole yeshiva.” And how that humility became fuel—not a stop sign. Daf Yomi as identity: train rides, flights, gates, and “downtime” that turns into real learning time. Awe for talmidei chachamim: the pictures on his desk, and what they remind him of when work gets loud. Lessons from Satya Nadella + lessons from yeshiva—especially the mindset of being a learn-it-all, not a know-it-all. What it takes to stay frum while living around the world—plus huge hakaras hatov to Chabad for making that possible. “Truth is found in the field”: how empathy, listening, and outside-in thinking shaped his leadership style. The long game: building a unicorn company, and still saying, “When I’m done, I want to learn full time.” If you appreciate Shtark Tank, please make sure to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!

What if the most “frum” thing you can do at work… is simply doing your job well? In this episode, I’m joined by Rav Dovid Gottlieb for a sharp, practical conversation built around a powerful piece from Rav Shlomo Wolbe (Alei Shur)—with guidance that every working Ben Torah needs. Soon after, we take these ideas into one of the hottest and most real-life arenas right now: religious soldiers in the IDF, and the tension of doing what’s right while still missing the beis medrash, the minyan, and the Yom Tov experience. The takeaway applies to soldiers and professionals: avoid guilt, stay honest about what you’re missing, and keep striving. In this episode: The Midrash about Chanuch the cobbler: how “every stitch” can be holy when your goal is to help people Rav Wolbe’s big idea: there’s no such thing as truly “secular” work when you bring the right kavana The “Do Your Job” principle: why learning/davening at the wrong time can become a mitzvah haba’ah b’aveirah The soldier/workforce parallel: no guilt when you’re doing what Hashem needs from you now—while still feeling the loss of what you’re missing Balancing the three jobs: family, parnassah, and Torah (and why there’s no one-size-fits-all formula) A powerful closing charge from Rav Wolbe: Hashem hasn’t given up on you—keep striving to grow in Torah “Latent awareness”: how Torah stays with you even when you’re fully focused on your mission To support Religous IDF soliers click here and support Tzalash. If you want to help us grow Shtark Tank, make sure to hit subscribe and leave a 5 star review, thanks!

Uri Edell shares his story of addiction, rehab and recovery. If you need help, contact Amudim now. Crisis hotline can be reached at 646-517-0222, or from israel 02-374-0175 This is a special Purim bonus episode—a raw and honest conversation meant to warn and wake people up. In this episode, Uri Edel shares his personal story—how gambling started young, how “just for fun” escalated over years, and how legalization + apps turned it into something 24/7, always within reach. Uri describes: The first win that hooked him—and the years spent chasing that same high How gambling isn’t only about money, but about time, secrecy, and control What happens when betting becomes available in the palm of your hand, anytime, anywhere The “VIP” treatment that makes you feel special… while pulling you deeper The moment he realized this was hurting the people he loved most—and why he finally came clean Rehab, Gamblers Anonymous, rebuilding trust, and living one day at a time This conversation is intense, but it’s also hopeful. Uri doesn’t share this story for drama. He shares it to help someone listening avoid the same trap, or to help someone already struggling realize: you’re not alone, and help is real. Purim Sameach—and please, a safe one.

How do Bnei Torah apply skills from the workforce to serve non-profit organizations? In this episode, Yaakov Wolff speaks with Allen Pfeiffer and Hillel Scheinfeld two successful professionals who bring their strengths into the world of tzedakah and nonprofits. They discuss why donors should think more seriously about where their money goes, why nonprofits need more transparency and accountability, and why giving should not be passive. The conversation also explores how working Bnei Torah can contribute not only with checks, but with perspective, standards, and real involvement. This is a conversation about treating tzedakah with the seriousness it deserves. In this episode: Why tzedakah is not just “giving money away” Why business skills matter in the nonprofit world How donors should think about impact and accountability Why trust and transparency matter so much What smaller donors can do besides give money How to support causes in a more thoughtful way

Dov Adler is an audit partner who has in intereresting relationship with auditing. In this episode, Dov Adler shares a refreshingly honest take on work, fulfillment, and responsibility. We talk about growing up in a rabbi’s home, choosing accounting over rabbanus, wearing a kippah in corporate America, and building a career that is meaningful not because every task is enjoyable, but because of the life and impact built around it. We also discuss Torah learning during busy seasons, public speaking, fundraising, parenting, and the challenge of raising children with patience, example, and conviction. This is a wide-ranging conversation about ambition, service, and what it means to build a serious Torah life in the workforce without thinking in narrow boxes. Key Highlights: Smashing Paradigms: Why you don't need to "love" your core job to find professional fulfillment. The Power of Bribes: The viral story of how Dov used a car lease to spark his son’s love for Gemara. Kiddush Hashem at PwC: Navigating the corporate ladder while maintaining a visible Jewish identity. Fundraising as a Mission: How Dov balances multi-million dollar campaigns for schools and shuls with his 9-to-5. Consistent Learning: Tips for maintaining two sedarim a day, even during peak "busy season." Listen to Dov's shiurim on YUTorah

What happens when Torah, growth, and mental health start pulling against each other instead of working together? In this episode of Shtark Tank, Yaakov Wolff speaks with Dr. Dan Jacobson — psychologist, musmach, co-author of Flipping Out, and author of Light in the Darkness — about stress, anxiety, yeshiva pressure, and the long-term impact they can have on our Avodat Hashem. To recieve a free copy of Light in the Darkness, about kedusha in today's world, email [email protected] They discuss the difference between healthy pressure and unhealthy stress, why anxiety seems to be rising in today’s world, and how formative yeshiva experiences can shape a person’s relationship with learning for years afterward. They also talk about balancing Torah, work, and family life, navigating Pesach pressure in a healthier way, and approaching struggles in kedusha with more honesty and less shame. This is a thoughtful and practical conversation about serving Hashem with more clarity, more balance, and more simcha. What We DiscussedDr. Jacobson’s path into psychology and his interest in the intersection of Torah and mental healthThe difference between stress and anxietyWhy some pressure is necessary, but too much can become destructiveHow yeshiva culture can sometimes create unhealthy stress around learning and growthThe long-term effect of yeshiva experiences on a person’s relationship with TorahWhat to do if learning has become tied up with guilt or pressureBalancing competing values like learning, marriage, parenting, and responsibilityHow to reduce stress around Pesach prep and focus more on meaningOCD, halachic uncertainty, and the importance of clear guidanceWhy so many men struggle silently in areas of kedushaWhat Dr. Jacobson hoped to add with his booklet Light in the Darkness Key TakeawaysStress and anxiety are not exactly the same thing. Stress is often tied to present pressure, while anxiety is more future-oriented.Some pressure is part of growth. The goal is not zero stress, but healthy stress in the right dose.Yeshiva can be deeply formative, for good and for bad. If Torah became associated with guilt or pressure, that needs to be rethought.A working person should try to build a relationship with learning that includes pleasure, connection, and simcha — not just obligation.Many struggles become worse when there is too much doubt, especially for people with OCD tendencies.Pesach can become overwhelming when people lose sight of what is halacha and what is chumra, habit, or family expectation.In struggles around kedusha, shame and secrecy often make things worse. Honest, psychologically grounded guidance helps. Notable Lines / Ideas“If the prime emotion that someone has with regard to their learning is a negative emotion, that has to be checked.”“You want there to be simcha and pleasure and joy and connection with your learning.”“We build our strength and resilience by encountering and learning how to handle some difficulty.”“The holiday of freedom can feel enslaving if we lose sight of meaning.” Chapters00:00 Intro 05:20 Stress and Anxiety, in Yeshiva and beyond28:12 Balancing learning, marriage, parenting, and other real responsibilities32:15 Pesach pressure: cleaning, OCD, chumros, and staying sane38:52 Light in the Darkness: what Dr. Jacobson wanted to add to the kedusha conversation45:48 Rapid fire About the GuestDr. Dan Jacobson is a psychologist and musmach who has spent years thinking and writing about the intersection of mental health, yeshiva life, and Avodat Hashem. He is the co-author of Flipping Out and the author of Light in the Darkness, a booklet addressing struggles in kedusha with psychological depth and Torah sensitivity.

Get ready for Pesach with a mega collection of divrei torah, from Bnei Torah in the workforce. You will hear from Rav Yakov Danishefsky, Rav Jonathan Livi,Rav Max Berger, Zak Lenik, Mark Tobin Dr. Mordy Goldenberg and Yoel Van Messel. At the end, you will hear some ideas of mine which I shared on The Greatest Parasha podcast, hosted by Raymond Ashkenazie and Emma Dayan A big thank you to Shlomo Price for his help with extra editing. Wishing you and your families a Chag Kasher Vsameach   Guest Bios and Links Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky, LCSW CSAT, is a Chicago-basedtherapist and author of the widely read Attached, the newly released AttachedHaggadah, and the forthcoming sefer The Delight of Shabbos. He leads AvodasHaLev, a Chicago organization devoted to meaningful learning and communityprogramming, and hosts The Attached Life Podcast. He is known for bringingdepth, passion, and warmth to everything he teaches. To order the Haggadah: To order in US: https://a.co/d/03dgzXKD   https://alehzayis.com/product/the-attached-haggadah/   https://feldheim.com/the-attached-haggadah   To order in E"Y: https://siparti.co/attachedH/ Jonathan Livi is founder and Principal of RJL CapitalAdvisors, which places JV equity for middle market commercial real estate transactions across the United States. He is also the Hazzan and assistant rabbi at Shaare Rachamim Synagogue in Great Neck, NY, in which capacity heteaches Tanakh daily. His shiurim are available on Spotify and Apple Podcast via his various podcasts. He is married to Kayla, and father to 3 kids. https://open.spotify.com/show/45srXeZZgZKHAomOmpIkmh?si=hf6h-z2dToezYb95H0dMxQ   https://open.spotify.com/show/48iHU4mP1cvgZOGFrC5Jys?si=JinlUNvmSeimGKQl9LWiMQ   Max Berger was an aspiring rabbi turned aspiring philosopherturned VC. He spent the last two years at Next Gear Ventures, a Tel Aviv basedearly stage VC fund, before moving back to New York this year.   ZakLenik  is a real estate advisor in Israel who works mainly with Anglos looking to buy a home andbuild a life here. His own aliyah journey didn’t start in the most typical way, but through years of learning—and later teaching—Torah, he developed a strongsense of purpose that ultimately brought him back to Israel for good. Now, he helps others navigate that same journey, combining real estate guidance with a deeper understanding of what it means to truly build a life here   https://www.instagram.com/zak in israel?igsh=YTU0MWRlbW5iMGMx&utm source=qr   00:00 Intro 00:52 Rav Yaakov Danishefsky: Writing Your Own Story 18:08 Rav Jonathan Livi: The Revolution of Freedom 34:40 Rav Max Berger: Matzah and Authenticity 52:26 Zak Lenik: Freedom or Slavery? 01:11:12 Mark Tobin: The Holiday of Emunah 01:19:07 Dr. Mordy Goldenberg: Late Night Vision 01:25:51 Yoel Van Messel: Understanding Our Goals 01:38:40 Yaakov Wolff on Greatest Parashah Podcast 02:01:26 Outro