In this episode of the Israel Gap Year B’Iyun Podcast, Avi Proctor sits down with Mrs. Shira Melamed, head of Midreshet Torat Chessed, for a thoughtful conversation about what it truly means to be “on the derech” — and why that definition may need to be reexamined in today’s educational and spiritual climate. Together, they explore the role that chessed plays in a student’s year in Israel, and what may be lost when it’s treated as an “extra” rather than an essential part of growth. The conversation touches on common misunderstandings surrounding bitul Torah, the relationship between Torah learning and midot development, and how spiritual growth can sometimes occur without a parallel growth in empathy, emotional sensitivity, and derech eretz. They also discuss the responsibility educators carry in shaping not just what students know — but who they become — and how structured chessed can help bridge the gap between intellectual learning and lived Torah values.

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 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 worldReal-life stories from Rabbi Kunstler’s talks that left students thinking twiceRabbi Kunstler’s own background in music and how it informs his viewThe 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 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 nowWhat kind of personal and spiritual growth students should be focusing on during their yearThe type of support and environment that today’s Orthodox teens thrive inHow 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. Learn More / Contact JCT 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 Follow Israel Gap Year ???? 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 directionThe biggest mistakes students make when thinking about their futureHow to ask the right questions — even if you’re unsure where to startBalancing growth in ruchniyus with planning for your futureThe mindset that builds confidence without rushing big decisions

In this episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Aryeh Ifrah, a Rebbe at Yeshivat Torat Shraga, to discuss the halachic challenges that students commonly face during their year in Israel—and beyond. With his deep knowledge of halacha and years of experience working with yeshiva students, Rabbi Ifrah shares practical advice on how to navigate everyday situations through a Torah lens. Together, they tackle key questions, including:How to handle Hilchot Shabbat issuesKashrut challenges when traveling or eating outHow to balance family expectations with halachic growthImportant day-to-day halachic situations that often get overlookedAnd much more~ Whether you're currently spending your year in Israel, planning your trip, or just want to strengthen your halachic awareness, this episode is packed with real-world guidance you won’t want to miss. Link to the ZnT kashrus list for restaurants- https://www.zntkosher.com/