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

Join us in this week’s episode as Rabbi Avishai David, the Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Torat Shraga and the founding rabbi of Kehillas Beis Tefillah Yonah Avraham in Ramat Beit Shemesh, shares his wisdom on the journey to greatness. Rabbi David sheds light on how hard work leads to success, drawing from his rich encounters with Gedolim and personal experiences. Prepare to be inspired as we explore the transformative power of dedication and perseverance.  To sponsor an upcoming episode email [email protected] To schedule a consultation appointment for gap year programs with Avi Proctor click here: https://bookme.name/aviproctor To learn more about Yeshivat Torat Shraga click here: https://toratshraga.com/ Follow Israel Gap Year:  Instagram: http://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/27syypmu Youtube: http://tinyurl.com/ysxymr3w

Join us this week as we sit down with Rav Mordechai Burg, Menahel of Yeshivat Mevaseret, to explore the importance of vulnerability in the yeshiva environment. Discover how creating a space where students, and people in general, feel at peace with themselves and others, and are comfortable being who they are, is crucial for their personal development and fulfilling their purpose in the world. Tune in for a deep dive into this essential aspect of growth and self-discovery! To sponsor an upcoming episode email [email protected] To schedule a consultation appointment for gap year programs with Avi Proctor click here: https://bookme.name/aviproctor To learn more about Yeshivat Mevaseret click here: https://www.ysmz.org/ Follow Israel Gap Year:  Instagram: http://tinyurl.com/2s3kx22d Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/27syypmu Youtube: http://tinyurl.com/ysxymr3w

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 episode of Israel Gap Year B’Iyun, Avi Proctor sits down with Rabbi Ben Leybovich to talk about how comparison and pressure have reshaped the way people experience personal and spiritual growth. They explore why growth today often feels performative instead of personal, how constantly measuring ourselves against others leaves so many feeling stuck or behind, and what authentic growth can look like when it’s rooted in individuality rather than competition. This conversation offers a healthier, more honest way to think about growth for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure they’re growing the “right” way.  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 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 and Rebbetzin Mayer from Tiferet Seminary to explore a powerful topic that doesn’t get talked about enough: the importance of seminary girls having a spiritual mentor — whether a rabbi or rebbetzin — both during their year in Israel and long after it ends. Drawing from their own transformative relationships with their mentors, the Mayers discuss:Why girls also need a “rabbi figure” in their lifeWhat to do if you're in seminary and haven’t connected with someone yetHow to build a meaningful spiritual relationship after you've already left IsraelThe difference these connections make — not just in seminary, but in lifeReal advice for students feeling like it's “too late” to find a mentor This is a must-listen episode for seminary students, parents, educators — or anyone who believes in the power of lasting relationships in Jewish growth. 

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/