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In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Eli Weber, CEO of Weber Media and host of the Podsitivity Podcast, to talk about building a social media business from scratch, the mindset behind entrepreneurship, and how content can turn into real revenue. Eli Weber is the founder of Weber Media, a social media marketing company that helps businesses maximize the potential of social media, content creation, and personal branding to generate real profits. What started as helping a musician manage social media accounts eventually turned into a growing agency managing multiple brands and business profiles. Before entrepreneurship, Eli worked in construction management, overseeing hundreds of workers and long commutes every day. But he quickly realized that a traditional job wasn’t fulfilling the life he wanted to build. That realization pushed him to explore online business, social media marketing, and digital entrepreneurship, eventually launching Weber Media. In this conversation, Eli shares how he landed his first client, what he learned about the Instagram algorithm, LinkedIn growth, and modern social media strategy, and why social media today is no longer just about followers — it’s about interest-based content that platforms distribute to the right audience. We also dive into the mindset required to build a business: staying positive, taking responsibility for outcomes, handling rejection, and learning not to take every client decision personally. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, building a social media agency, content marketing, personal branding, or starting an online business, this episode is packed with insights that will help you think differently about opportunity and growth. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Eli Weber built a social media marketing business from scratch◼️ The mindset shift that pushed him toward entrepreneurship◼️ His early career managing construction teams◼️ Landing the first paying client for Weber Media◼️ How the Instagram and LinkedIn algorithms work today◼️ Why social media is now “interest media” instead of follower media◼️ The difference between branding, marketing, and advertising◼️ The emotional challenges of running a business◼️ Why anyone can start a side hustle or online business today◼️ How content creation can generate real business opportunities ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 The Positivity Principle4:26 From Hardhat to Hustle — The Construction Years25:25 What Social Media Actually Is (And What It Isn't)28:16 The Business of Storytelling — Real Clients, Real Results42:05 Building a Team, Setting Boundaries, and Getting Out of Your Own Way47:28 Trust the Process — Lessons, Mindset & What He'd Do Differently 🔗 Connect with Eli WeberFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellin.web/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-weber1 🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ 🎙 Sponsored by: Dabbl Dabbl is an all-in-one platform where kids and teens can explore a wide range of lessons—from music, art, and cooking to photography, wilderness skills, and money management—without the hassle of commuting or expensive one-on-one classes. For just $25 a month, learners get access to all courses designed to bring them off-screen into real-life skills. Listeners can use code TK-20 for 20% off at https://justdabbl.com/ United Refuah United Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free. https://unitedrefuahhs.org/ Blackbird Recruiting Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business. If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Raps — the Rabbi of Social Media — who has built a community of 2M+ followers by bringing Torah, confidence, and unapologetic Jewish identity to the digital world. What started as simply sharing thoughts online turned into a global platform. We talk about what really happens when a Rabbi goes viral — the backlash, the hate, the pressure, and the responsibility that comes with millions of people watching. Rabbi Raps opens up about confronting antisemitism head-on, staying authentic in an algorithm-driven world, and why purpose always matters more than popularity. From Torah to TikTok, from raising proud Jewish kids to having real conversations about the Noahide movement, this episode goes far beyond social media strategy. It’s about courage. Identity. Leadership. And what it truly takes to show up boldly when the world would rather you stay quiet. If you’re building something online — or trying to lead with more confidence in your own life — this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Rabbi Raps built 2M+ followers without chasing trends◼️ The viral moment that changed everything◼️ Dealing with hate, backlash, and public criticism◼️ Faith vs. algorithms — and staying real online◼️ Addressing antisemitism on a massive platform◼️ The responsibility that comes with influence◼️ Raising confident Jewish kids in today’s climate◼️ The Noahide movement and global Torah conversations◼️ The emotional cost of visibility◼️ Why purpose beats popularity every time◼️ The future of Jewish leadership in the digital age ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 From Atlantic City to Rabbi Raps 1:53 From Shlichus to Running a Community 10:08 Building Shuls & Community Growth 15:13 When Social Media Changed Everything 17:02 Going Viral, Algorithms & Menorah Moments 18:46 Humans for Noah & The 7 Laws 23:34 Hate, Authenticity & Finding Your Voice 27:43 Raising Confident Jewish Kids 34:05 Purpose, Tafkid & Showing Up Online 38:35 Confidence, Cameras & Fear of Being Seen 🔗 Connect with Rabbi RapsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbiraps/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rabbiraps?lang=en 🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ 🎙 Sponsored by: Dabbl Dabbl is an all-in-one platform where kids and teens can explore a wide range of lessons—from music, art, and cooking to photography, wilderness skills, and money management—without the hassle of commuting or expensive one-on-one classes. For just $25 a month, learners get access to all courses designed to bring them off-screen into real-life skills. Listeners can use code TK-20 for 20% off at https://justdabbl.com/ United Refuah United Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free. https://unitedrefuahhs.org/ Blackbird Recruiting Hiring the wrong person is expensive — not just financially, but culturally. Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business. If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Nachman Seltzer—a prolific Jewish author, Torah educator, and former music director who has quietly built a decades-long career at the intersection of faith, creativity, and impact. Rabbi Seltzer shares his journey from writing his first book by hand on a bus at 23 to publishing over 56 books, including Torah works that sold 70,000+ copies worldwide. He opens up about the realities of the publishing world, why novels rarely sell, how biographies and Torah books create lasting influence, and what most aspiring writers misunderstand about success. The conversation also explores his unexpected exit from the Jewish music and choir world, how industry shifts forced hard decisions, and why knowing when to quit can be just as important as knowing how to start. From turning ancient Torah texts into modern movements to offering grounded advice for writers, creators, and those considering Aliyah, this episode is a masterclass in long-term thinking, creative discipline, and purpose-driven work. Whether you’re a writer, educator, creator, or someone navigating career pivots through faith and practicality, this episode delivers lessons that only come from 25 years of doing the work. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ Writing his first book at 23—and why it was written entirely on a bus ◼️ How a single real-life story became a bestselling Jewish novel ◼️ The business reality of publishing: royalties, advances, and distribution ◼️ Why most novels fail—and what actually sells in Jewish publishing ◼️ Turning an out-of-print Torah sefer into a global learning movement ◼️ How storytelling makes Torah accessible to thousands worldwide ◼️ Why passion isn’t enough—and how market awareness shapes success ◼️ Leaving a thriving music and choir career at the right time ◼️ How the Jewish music industry changed—and why CDs ended the model ◼️ Balancing faith, creativity, family, and parnassah ◼️ Advice for writers, creators, and those considering Aliyah ◼️ Why longevity matters more than trends in any creative career ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 From Shabbos Table to a Global Torah Movement 2:56 Writing a First Novel by Hand (And Getting Published) 12:01 The Sefer That Sparked a Worldwide Learning Revolution 21:32 Choirs, Creativity & Walking Away From Music 27:16 Writing for Impact, Not Sales 🔗 Connect with Rabbi Nachman Seltzer LinkedIn: https://il.linkedin.com/in/rabbi-nachman-seltzer-a719849 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B086K3HW5P 🔗 Connect with the Host Tuli Kraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ 🎙 Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire people who actually perform—so you can focus on growing your business. Learn more at blackbirdrecruiting.com

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Abe Breuer, CEO of John To Go—a self-made entrepreneur who built a multi-million-dollar empire in an essential but often overlooked industry and achieved a successful private equity exit. Abe breaks down his 20-year journey from selling his first computer company as a teenager to scaling a portable sanitation business into a $50M national leader. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the partner who quit during the first brutal winter, near-death cash flow moments, and the unconventional employee strategy that turned a secretary into a $280k-a-year partner. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, operational scaling, and leadership mindset. Whether you’re starting a service business, struggling to scale, or curious about exits and life after selling, this episode delivers hard-earned lessons you won’t find in textbooks. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Abe built his first company at 16 and sold it for $25k◼️ The “walk between the drops” philosophy learned from his parents◼️ Scaling revenue to $50M without losing control◼️ The partner who walked away—and the brother who stayed to build a legacy◼️ Managing ADHD as a superpower using pen, paper, and ruthless systems◼️ Why Abe never gives raises—and the bonus system that creates extreme loyalty◼️ The New Yorker article that changed everything and attracted private equity◼️ The harsh reality of scaling too fast and running out of cash◼️ Selling the business: identity loss, regret, and what comes next◼️ His current venture in the challenging world of assisted living (ALFs) ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 Intro – Meeting in the Shul & the Founder of John To Go10:11 Early Hustle – Selling a Computer Company at 1616:11 First Major Bet – Buying a 24-Unit Building with $400k20:20 The Birth of John To Go – A Partner, a Stick Shift Truck & the First Winter23:02 The Pivot – Bringing His Brother in as the Right Partner32:20 Scaling Secrets – From $400k to $50M in Revenue39:45 The New Yorker Call That Changed Everything 57:32 The $280k Employee – A Bonus System That Creates Partners1:04:14 Life After the Exit – Identity, Travel & Starting Over1:07:37 Final Advice – Would He Do It All Again? 🔗 Connect with Abe BreuerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/breuerabe/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/abe-breuer-a339725/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business.Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

💡 I Found the Key to Hiring A-Players For 50% Less On this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Klein, Founder & CEO of Real Hires, the company that’s helping businesses hire top talent from 40+ countries without breaking the bank. Aaron shares how to: 🚀 Hire top-tier talent smarter and faster 💻 Build high-performing remote teams across time zones 💰 Cut hiring costs in half without compromising quality ⚡ Avoid the biggest mistakes companies make when hiring globally If you’re a founder, manager, or HR leader, this episode will change the way you approach hiring—saving you time, money, and headaches. 🎯 Stop settling for “good enough” talent. Learn how to get A-players, for less.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Hershy Goldstein, CEO and Co-Founder of FRIDAY—a SaaS founder who went from unemployment to building a thriving tech startup serving over 1,200 customers. Hershy breaks down his journey from leaving a secure career to bootstrapping and scaling a profitable, remote-first business. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the moments he almost shut everything down, the pressure of scaling fast, and the leadership decisions that come with being the one in charge. This conversation is a masterclass in career decisions, startup growth, and building a sustainable business. Whether you’re considering leaving a corporate job, building a startup, or leading a remote team, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Hershy turned unemployment into a SaaS startup success story ◼️ The pivotal moment that almost ended the company ◼️ Scaling to 1,200 customers without investors or venture capital ◼️ Building a fully remote team across multiple states ◼️ Recognizing when to leave a secure career to pursue entrepreneurship ◼️ Handling founder burnout and mental pressure while growing a company ◼️ How to identify, retain, and lead high-performing employees ◼️ Lessons from the accidental product pivots that saved the business ◼️ Hershy’s non-negotiable advice for first-time founders ⏱️ Chapters: 0:00 Intro - The $250k Question 11:54 The Breakthrough: Conquering Imposter Syndrome at Fingercheck 19:24 The 9-Year Grind: From Support to Manager to $250k 22:30 The Coaching Epiphany: Discovering a Hidden Superpower 37:19 The Final Straw: Why I Quit My Cushy Job 42:09 The Wilderness: Depression, COVID, and Consulting 54:10 Startup Nightmare: The Week Our Bank Vanished 1:02:55 Founder Truths: Surrender, Hiring, & The Fear of Content 1:20:38 Final Advice: Should You Leave Your Safe Job? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey-goldstein/Website:https://fridayapp.com/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ Sponsored by Blackbird RecruitingTired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business.Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Avi Singer, Founder and CEO of Showd.me - a leader who hacked the corporate ladder from day one and later built a multi-million-dollar SaaS company without raising a single dollar of venture capital. Avi breaks down his journey from a $65k entry-level role at DoubleClick (later acquired by Google) to bootstrapping and scaling a profitable, remote-first business. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the moments he nearly quit, the pressure of making payroll, and the tough leadership decisions that come with being the one in charge. This conversation is a masterclass in strategic career planning, sustainable company building, and rejecting Silicon Valley hype in favor of real, durable success. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, building a startup, or trying to lead a team that actually cares, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else. 💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Avi leveraged an Ivy League degree to land his first $65k job◼️ Adopting a “future VP” mindset from day one in corporate life◼️ Why he tells 99% of people not to start a tech startup◼️ The accidental pivot from a “nice-to-have” to a true “must-have” product◼️ Building a 50-person remote team across 13 states—with no office◼️ The hardest CEO skill: knowing when to walk away from easy money◼️ How to identify, promote, and retain rockstar employees—and when to let go◼️ The servant-leadership philosophy that creates real loyalty◼️ Navigating founder identity crises and near burnout◼️ Why most software companies fail—and how to avoid the same traps◼️ Avi’s non-negotiable advice for first-time founders ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 From Columbia to Corporate: Hacking the $65k Start 11:45 The Terminal Degree: Planning Your Career Like a Chess Game 14:27 Why I Left a $250k+ VP Job to Start From Scratch 21:42 The Pivot That Saved the Business 30:12 Hiring (and Firing) for a Team That Runs Without You 34:50 Building a Remote Culture That Actually Works 53:48 The Vacation Test: How to Know You’re a Good Leader 1:03:03 From Unicorn Dreams to Building a Real Business 🔗 Connect with Avi Singer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avisinger/Website: https://www.showd.me/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this powerful episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Sam Shvarzblat, a contractor and entrepreneur who has lived both realities—being the boss and walking away from being the boss. Sam built a construction company from scratch in his early 20s, scaled it to multiple large projects, battled cash-flow pressure, burnout, family expectations, and eventually made the toughest decision an entrepreneur can make: closing his own company. This conversation is brutally honest. Sam opens up about the identity crisis founders face, the ego tied to “being your own boss,” how cash flow really works behind the scenes in construction, and why moving his family to a new community changed everything. Whether you're an entrepreneur, contractor, or someone who’s ever wondered if stepping away is failure or growth—this episode will hit home. This is a raw masterclass in humility, rebuilding, and what it really takes to balance business, family, faith, and your own well-being. 💡 In This Episode, We Discuss: ◼️ Sam’s early journey into construction and why he skipped working for others ◼️ The harsh truth about being a young business owner in the trades ◼️ Why most contractors struggle with cash flow—and how to fix it ◼️ The “friends & family discount” myth ◼️ The realities of managing 10+ simultaneous construction projects ◼️ Burnout, identity, and the moment Sam knew he had to step away ◼️ Moving from Lakewood to Monsey: lifestyle, community, and values ◼️ Economic slowdown, stalled projects, and clients pulling deposits ◼️ What it feels like to shut down your own company ◼️ How Sam rebuilt his life, career, and sense of direction ◼️ What every new entrepreneur should understand before starting ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 When the Dream of Being Your Own Boss Starts to Crack 2:19 Why I Refused to Become a Copy-Paste Contractor 6:19 Friends, Family & the Truth About ‘Discount Work’ 7:06 Why Friends Should Pay MORE—Not Less 8:26 At My Peak: Running 10 Projects with a Tiny Team 10:25 The Cash-Flow Trap That Destroys Most Contractors 13:10 The Question I Never Wanted to Answer: Why I Closed My Company 16:46 The Commute That Broke Me: 4:30 AM Drives & Endless Inspections 17:55 When Clients Pump the Brakes & the Economy Turns on You 26:56 The Identity Shift of Going from a Boss to an Employee 34:49 Being an Employee vs Doing Your Own Thing 37:35 The Biggest Lessons I’ve Learned in These Chapters of My Life 🔗 Connect with Sam Shvarzblat: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samshvarzblat/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samshvarz/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this insightful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Morris Isaacson, the Chief Marketing Officer of Empeon, whose career spans more than two decades across brand strategy, digital marketing, and high-growth tech leadership. Morris has led marketing for iconic global brands like Polaroid, played a key role in a $1.1B IPO, and built data-driven marketing engines inside fast-scaling organizations. He breaks down the real evolution of modern marketing—from the creativity-first “Mad Men” era to the analytics, attribution, and performance-driven landscape companies operate in today. This episode is packed with career lessons, leadership insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at how top CMOs build brands that grow revenue, teams, and long-term impact. This is a masterclass in building a valuable career, leading high-performance teams, and staying ahead in one of the fastest-changing industries in the world. 💡 In This Episode, We Discuss: ◼️ Morris’s unconventional start: From psychology major to entertainment marketing◼️ Why marketing has shifted from art to science◼️ How to prove your value and win budget from data-driven CFOs◼️ The Polaroid comeback: Rebranding a nostalgic icon◼️ How to build a marketing team from zero◼️ The real ROI of trade shows — and how to execute them right◼️ Aligning sales and marketing for accurate pipeline data◼️ Career compensation: When your salary finally reflects your value◼️ What Morris looks for when hiring modern marketing talent◼️ The one skill that will make you irreplaceable today◼️ Final advice: Why doing what you love leads to a fulfilling career ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose1:11 Guest Introduction: Morris Isaacson, CMO of Empeon2:18 The Unforgettable First Job Interview5:27 Early Career: From IDT to Yeshiva University9:21 The Polaroid Turnaround Story11:29 Building & Managing Marketing Teams16:35 The Evolution of Marketing: Data vs. Creativity19:08 Mastering Trade Shows & Proving ROI32:20 Career Advice: Compensation, Mistakes, and Hiring40:01 Final Thoughts: The 22-Year Career Reflection 🔗 Connect with Morris Isaacson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misaacson/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

How does faith rewire your entire career? In this powerful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Mrs. Esther Bergman, the CFO of Chai Lifeline, who oversees a massive $45 million budget dedicated to helping families with critically ill children. Esther takes us on her incredible journey from a Spanish-speaking immigrant taking a job as a store greeter to becoming the financial leader of one of the most impactful non-profits. She pulls back the curtain on her unique philosophy that you don't work for your boss, you work for God, and shares how this mindset opened doors no degree ever could. She reveals how a prayer for fish in Costa Rica was directly answered, the time she saved a $100M organization from collapse, and why she schedules her "depression" for 5 AM. This is a raw, inspiring, and deeply spiritual conversation about the power of showing up, the true meaning of money, and how to lead with compassion—even when you have to let someone go. 💡 In This Episode, We Discuss: ◼️ Esther’s journey from Costa Rica to CFO without a finance degree ◼️ The Costa Rica “Fish Market Miracle” and talking to God in everyday life ◼️ Her grandmother’s powerful lesson: “Money is like fire” ◼️ The brutal cash flow crisis that threatened to shut down a $100M organization ◼️ How to transition from an individual contributor to a leader who builds other leaders ◼️ The art of firing someone with kindness and a prayer for their future ◼️ Why being multi-talented can be a curse for your career ◼️ The $15 million secret behind Chai Lifeline’s volunteer force ◼️ How to make a lateral career move that sets you up for long-term success ◼️ Her advice for anyone wanting to build a meaningful career in finance or non-profit ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Meet Esther Bergman: The CFO Who Works for God 1:04 The Costa Rica Fish Market Miracle 7:50 Immigrant Story: First Job as a Store Greeter in Brooklyn 10:53 The Kleinfeld Bridal Breakthrough 22:56 Switching from Customer Service to Finance 34:51 How to Fire Someone with Compassion 38:25 The $45M Budget of Chai Lifeline & The $15M Secret 43:02 The Crisis: A $100M Organization Frozen by Fraud 44:37 The Brilliant Idea That Saved the Company 50:50 Final Advice: How to Build a Career with Purpose 🔗 Connect with Esther Bergman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-bergman-87579117/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified resumes? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

The Brutal Truth About Being A Creative Director | How a Borough Park Kid Landed HBO, Polaroid, and Brother ft. Sam Ash How data and storytelling can build a career? In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Sam Ash (not the music store!), a marketing powerhouse and the unconventional creative mind behind iconic campaigns for HBO, Brother, Polaroid, and countless brands in the frum world. Sam takes us on a hilarious and insightful journey from his Borough Park Yeshiva days to the top of the advertising world, pulling back the curtain on how he launched the Brother P-Touch, made Paint fascinating, and why he never wears the same "professional" face twice. He shares profound lessons on faith, family, and why today's consumers don't want to think, they want to feel. This is a raw, funny, and deeply authentic conversation about the power of a great idea, the importance of knowing your "why," and what Jewish marketing is missing. 💡 In This Episode, We Discuss: ◼️ Sam’s journey from a Yeshiva kid in Borough Park to a sought-after creative director ◼️ The hilarious story of launching the Brother P-Touch and the "aha" moment that created a new product category ◼️ His philosophy that you're not selling the drill, you're selling the hole! Why benefits always beat features ◼️ The challenge of balancing a demanding creative career with family life and faith ◼️ Why the frum community is the last great bastion of print advertising and how to use it effectively ◼️ His unexpected encounter with John Ratzenberger (Cliff from "Cheers") and the life lesson about money and family ◼️ How to "niche yourself" to break into a creative career ◼️ The problem with AI, SEO, and why they can't replace true talent and insight ◼️ What most Jewish marketing is missing and the agencies that are getting it right ◼️ His advice for business owners on how to choose the right creative agency ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Meet Sam Ash: The Unconventional Creative 3:09 From Borough Park to Big Brands: A Yeshiva Kid's Origin Story 5:07 The Brother P-Touch Launch: Selling the Hole, Not the Drill 22:45 Faith in the Workplace: Wearing a Kippah in Corporate America 27:16 The John Ratzenberger Story: A $150,000 Lesson on Priorities 35:48 How to Break Into a Creative Career: Niche Yourself 41:29 The State of Jewish Marketing: The Last Bastion of Print 43:10 Sam's Final Advice: How to Pick the Right Creative Agency 🔗 Connect with Sam Ash LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samash180/ 🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/ #WhatItTakesPodcast #Marketing #Advertising #BrandStrategy #CreativeDirector #Entrepreneurship #JewishBusiness #Startup #CareerAdvice

Episode made possible by Blackbird Recruiting. Check em out Blackbirdrecruiting.com After building a tech business and working with giants like Google and Microsoft, Hillel Fuld SHUT IT ALL DOWN after October 7th. He now commands one of the most powerful pro-Israel voices online, reaching BILLIONS of impressions. In this bombshell conversation, he exposes the uncomfortable truths about Zionism, the open miracles happening in Israel, and why he believes there is "zero justification" for any Jew to live outside their homeland today. Hillel Fuld is a leading Israeli tech strategist and a powerhouse advocate for Israel, with a massive following across social media platforms. IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS: ◼️ The shocking reason Israel is being "decimated" in the PR war—and what they're doing wrong ◼️ How Zionism is as core to Judaism as Shabbat, and the Gemara that proves it ◼️ The modern-day "gun to your head" argument for why Jews must leave now ◼️ Debunking the biggest Aliyah myths: salaries, language, and quality of life ◼️ Incredible, open miracles from the war that prove divine intervention ◼️ How the Israeli job market really works (it's not about your resume) ◼️ The one thing that still drives him crazy about living in Israel after 30 years 00:00 Introduction & Banter 00:31 The Accidental Tech Guru: Hillel's Origin Story 03:10 The Game-Changing Assistant & Business Transformation 04:55 The October 7th Pivot: Shutting Down for Israel 07:48 Why Israel is Losing the PR War 10:25 Defining Zionism & The Core of Jewish Identity 14:24 The Modern-Day "Gun to Your Head" Argument 16:53 Addressing the "I'll Go When Mashiach Comes" Viewpoint 21:54 The "Open Miracles" of the Israel-Hamas War 23:58 A Personal Story of Divine Intervention: The Australian Visa 29:08 Israel as a Practical Paradise: Debunking Aliyah Myths 32:13 How the Israeli Job Market Really Works 41:56 What Actually Drives Him Crazy About Israel 48:35 The Flip Side: The Magic of Israeli Community 51:22 Final Plea: Make a Plan CONNECT WITH HILLEL: X (Twitter): https://x.com/hilzfuld Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilzfuld/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HillelFuld/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilzfuld/

In Episode 12 of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rob Farmer, a global auto industry veteran with over 24 years of experience at Nissan Motor Company and General Motors. As Senior Director & Chief Market Intelligence Officer for the Americas at Nissan, Rob led a team of 50+ across four global locations, driving insights straight to the CEO’s desk.We dive deep into his career journey—from working in Shanghai, navigating the complexities of global automotive markets, to pioneering AI-driven analytics that cut development timelines, optimized brand tracking, and opened new business growth opportunities. Rob shares how he built a career that makes an impact on a global scale, the lessons he learned, and how he empowers teams to succeed in a fast-evolving industry.🎙 What you’ll learn in this episode:How Rob leveraged AI and advanced analytics to transform decision-making at NissanThe strategies behind entering new markets and categories successfullyLessons on leadership, upskilling, and building high-performing global teamsInsider perspectives on navigating the auto industry on a global scaleWhether you’re an aspiring executive, an automotive enthusiast, or someone curious about how insights and data drive big decisions, this episode is packed with actionable lessons and inspiration.A special thanks to our sponsors:United Refuah HealthShareAn affordable alternative to health insurance. Learn more at http://bit.ly/46s0F6fThe 3rd month of membership is free for new applicants. Enroll by 8/31 with code BLACKBIRDBlackbird RecruitingHelping businesses find the best talent with a personal, hands-on approach. Visit BlackbirdRecruiting.com to learn more about how we can you great employees.

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we’re joined by Yoni Rudansky, who made a bold move from learning in Kollel in Queens, NY, to building a thriving Jewish community in Louisville, KY. Yoni shares his incredible journey of starting from scratch in a new city, raising over $700K, and creating a vibrant community that’s flourishing today.We dive into how Yoni uses EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to run his community-building efforts like a business, the challenges he faced in establishing roots in Louisville, and the rewards of seeing his vision come to life.Whether you’re interested in community building, faith-driven entrepreneurship, or making bold life decisions, Yoni’s story is a powerful example of what it takes to turn vision into reality.A special thanks to our sponsors:United Refuah HealthShareAn affordable alternative to health insurance. Learn more at http://bit.ly/46s0F6fThe 3rd month of membership is free for new applicants. Enroll by 8/31 with code BLACKBIRDBlackbird RecruitingHelping businesses find the best talent with a personal, hands-on approach. Visit BlackbirdRecruiting.com to learn more about how we can you great employees.

Disclaimer:This video is being published Motzai Shabbos Israel time.In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Ron Coleman, a top-tier 1st Amendment lawyer, prominent legal blogger, and social media powerhouse with over 250,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter). Ron has built a massive online presence while maintaining a highly successful legal career, and in this episode, he opens up about how he’s navigated the intersection of law, blogging, and online influence.We dive into his journey from practicing law to becoming one of the leading lawyer bloggers in the country. Ron shares how he built his online following, the challenges he’s faced in managing his platform, and how social media has impacted his legal career and client relationships. We also discuss his experience working with the Trump team, the advice he has for attorneys looking to build their personal brand, and his thoughts on the future of the legal profession in the digital age.A special thank you to our sponsors:United Refuah HealthShareAn affordable alternative to health insurance. Learn more at http://bit.ly/46s0F6fThe 3rd month of membership is free for new applicants. Enroll by 8/31 with code BLACKBIRDMegaPayUSASimplifying payroll with cutting-edge technology and dedicated support. Visit https://www.megapayusa.com/BLACKBIRDRECRUITING to streamline your payroll process today!

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Chaim Book, an expert employment lawyer who specializes in helping businesses stay compliant and navigate the complexities of employment law. With years of experience in the field, Chaim shares valuable insights into how employers can avoid costly legal issues, best practices for handling workplace disputes, and the critical role of having strong employment policies in place.From explaining the nuances of employment contracts to discussing the latest trends in labor law, Chaim breaks it all down for business owners and professionals who want to stay ahead of potential legal challenges.Huge thanks to our sponsor, MegaPayUSA, for making this episode possible. MegaPayUSA provides businesses with efficient payroll solutions and dedicated support to ensure your team gets paid accurately and on time. Visit MegaPayUSA.com/blackbirdrecruiting to learn more about how they can simplify your payroll process!

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we’re joined by Eli Freedman, a former 9-5 professional who took a leap of faith and made aliyah to Israel, embarking on an entrepreneurial journey that would change his life. Eli’s story is one of emunah (faith), bitachon (trust in Hashem), and resilience.Eli built a successful wine storage facility and concierge business for high-net-worth clients, investing $500K in a dream project. But when the October 7 war broke out in Gaza, his business faced unexpected challenges. In this episode, Eli opens up about his journey of balancing business, faith, and overcoming adversity. He shares how to navigate life’s tests, the importance of maintaining faith through tough times, and what it really takes to pivot and keep moving forward when things don’t go according to plan.This episode is for anyone facing obstacles or questioning their path—Eli’s story of perseverance, trust in Hashem, and entrepreneurship will inspire you to push through and keep the faith, no matter what.To reach Eli and learn more about his services, check out https://www.corkandcellar.net/club

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we’re joined by Laibel Schwartz, the CEO of Laibel, a top-tier video production company that’s making waves in the corporate world. Laibel’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—he started by filming Bar Mitzvahs and now creates high-end corporate headshots and $25K corporate videos for some of the biggest brands.Laibel shares how he evolved his business, built a reputation for excellence, and took his passion for video production to the next level. From navigating challenges in the video industry to scaling his company, Laibel gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to grow a successful video production company in today’s competitive market.Tune in for a deep dive into how Laibel transformed his business and stayed ahead of the curve.Thank you to our sponsors for making this episode possible.For great, reasonable, and fast turnaround videos, check out https://everyoneneedsavideo.com/Also, thank you to Blackbirdrecruiting.com for sponsoring this episode.Reach out to them if you are looking to hire better employees.

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we’re joined by Uri Kirschner, a seasoned real estate lawyer with over 30 years of experience, who’s also found a way to balance his legal career with something truly impactful: starting the 100 Ride, a charity cycling event raising money for Kupas Ezra and Tomchei Shabbos.Uri shares how he’s been able to juggle his busy law practice while creating an event that’s bringing together a community of cyclists to support an incredible cause. From overcoming challenges in the legal world to tackling the obstacles of running a charity, Uri offers invaluable insights into leadership, time management, and what it really takes to combine professional success with giving back.Whether you're in the legal field, running a business, or just looking for inspiration on how to merge passion and purpose, this episode has something for you. Tune in for lessons, laughs, and a peek into how Uri turned a love for cycling into a charitable movement that’s making a real difference!And if you want to join this incredible movement, sign up now at https://www.the100ride.com/mt-register

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, I chat with Brian Wallace, CEO of Nowsourcing. Brian shares his journey, from becoming a religious Jew to starting an infographics agency that ended up creating viral content. He also tells the story of how he helped a basketball player land a massive $64 million contract. Brian’s path is anything but ordinary. In this conversation, we dive into how faith, creativity, and marketing came together to shape his career. If you’re into personal branding, marketing that actually works, or just want to hear a unique success story, this one’s for you.This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. If you are looking to hire great talent, check out ineedgoodemployees.com

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, Naftuly Kraus sits down with Shaina Keren, a career coach who has successfully guided over 1,000 individuals to unlock their full potential and achieve career success. Shaina shares her journey from starting as a coach to becoming a sought-after expert, and the strategies she uses to help clients overcome career obstacles, navigate transitions, and build fulfilling careers.If you’re looking for advice on how to take your career to the next level, this episode is packed with powerful insights and actionable steps. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of career coaching and the mindset needed to thrive in any professional environment.

Episode 2: Esther Miller – From Single Mother to $150K Earner: Balancing Life, Family, and Career Success In this inspiring episode of The What It Takes Podcast, Naftuly Kraus sits down with Esther Miller, a single mother of 8, who has successfully built a career earning $150K a year. Esther shares her powerful journey of overcoming personal and professional challenges, balancing the demands of motherhood with the drive to succeed in her career. Tune in as Esther reveals how she navigates work-life balance, manages multiple responsibilities, and stays focused on her goals. If you're looking for a dose of motivation and real-life insight into what it truly takes to achieve success against the odds, this episode is for you. For feedback or ideas on how we can make the podcast better, please email [email protected]