In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we hear intimate, firsthand memories of the early days of Postville and extraordinary stories surrounding the life and passing of the Rebbe’s mother, Rebbetzin Chana.Our Guest: Featuring Rabbi Vogel, a former Postville teacher and alumnus who shares vivid eyewitness accounts of Crown Heights history and key moments with the Rebbe.Key Takeaways:Unbelievable Kibbud Em: Discover how the Rebbe visited his mother daily for 20 minutes, carefully straightening chairs when leaving so he would never turn his back to her.Eyewitness to History: Hear dramatic moments from the day of Rebbetzin Chana's passing, including the Rebbe sitting on the floor of the van beside his mother and insisting on guarding her home.The Cemetery Incident: The detailed story of how the Rebbe personally pushed back crowds at the Levaya to ensure a plastic sheet containing blood was properly buried.Blessings on the Table: How the Rebbe stood on a table before Yom Kippur to repeat his annual blessing to the Bochurim so that everyone could hear clearly.Call to Action: If you enjoyed these inspiring historical reflections, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow alumni and friends!

What does it look like to grow up in a remote Iowa town as it transforms into a bustling Jewish community—and then step up to help keep it afloat when crisis hits? Join us as Meir Simcha Rubashkin reveals the incredible, raw, and behind-the-scenes history of Postville, from hilarious early culture clashes to the intense aftermath of the 2008 federal raid.Our Guest: Meir Simcha Rubashkin grew up as one of the early pioneers of the Postville community. Years later, he stepped in to work the plant's kill floor and run the local kosher grocery during its most challenging times before starting his current path as a Chabad campus emissary in Oneonta, NY.Key Takeaways:The "Tarzan" Underwear Incident: A hilarious look at the early days of Postville and how a Rubashkin sibling set the record straight for local public school students about "Fruit of the Loom".The Bochurim Take Charge: The inside story of how Yeshiva students stepped up to address a lack of structure, leading directly to the hiring of a beloved new Rosh Yeshiva.Gutting Cows & FBI Visits: Meir Simcha's intense memories of working grueling shifts on the kill floor and running the community grocery store under the watchful eye of federal agents after the 2008 raid.The Cleveland Pizza Shop: The bizarre story of how a storage unit full of government-seized pizza parlor equipment brought the first made-to-order kosher pizza to Postville.Call to Action: If you enjoyed this trip down memory lane, please subscribe to the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, leave us a review, and share this episode with fellow alumni!

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Shmuel Springer (often known simply as "Springer"), a Crown Heights native who attended Postville during what he describes as the "end of an era of insanity". Shmuel shares a raw and honest look at his journey from the "incubator" of Yeshiva to the challenges of the workforce and his eventual spiritual reawakening.Key highlights of this episode include:The Yeshiva "Incubator": Shmuel explains his concept of Yeshiva as an incubator—a perfect, controlled environment designed to provide bochurim with the necessary skills and information to eventually function in a "scary yet fun" world.From "Checking Boxes" to True Connection: Shmuel opens up about his period of leaving religious practice, explaining that for a time, his Yiddishkeit felt like a "mundane ritual". He describes his reawakening in California and how his experiences allowed him to return to a "more rounded and emotionally infused" life of faith.Culinary Roots in the Kitchen: Recalling his first commercial job in the food industry, Shmuel shares how he was the only student in his year to cook lunch from start to finish—a passion that began with over-excitedly chopping 15 onions and led to his current career in meat manufacturing and food product development in Florida.The "SPI" Philosophy: Shmuel discusses the importance of adding Specific Purposeful Intention (SPI) to religious rituals. He argues that without intention, a mitzvah is just a routine, but when the two are combined, it becomes a truly spiritual experience.Wild Postville Memories: From the dangerous thrill of BB gun fights on bicycles to borrowing the Shluchim’s van for a 4:00 AM Walmart run, Shmuel revisits the "insane" and creative ways students kept themselves entertained in the middle of Iowa.Lessons on Self-Work: Currently a husband and entrepreneur, Shmuel emphasizes that success in life isn't about the product or service you sell, but about working on yourself to become a "functioning human being".Join us for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation that explores culinary passion, the necessity of personal growth, and finding a meaningful path back to one's roots.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Mendel Telsner, a "Crown Heights Proud" alumnus who reflects on what he describes as his "best year of yeshiva hands down". Mendel shares how the unique environment of Postville allowed him to forge his own path in learning and spiritual growth.Key highlights of this episode include:The 7:30 AM Deal: Mendel reveals the "deal" he made with Rabbi Levin: in exchange for perfect attendance at 7:30 AM Chassidus every morning, he was given reshus to fly in to Crown Heights for Yud Shevat..Mastering the Gemara: By utilizing his independent schedule, Mendel spent his afternoons immersed in Bava Basra, ultimately finishing the entire volume four or five times—an accomplishment he still cherishes as a moment of "completeness".The Cash Advance Industry & Career Advice: Mendel discusses his transition into the professional world and the specific guidance he sought from Rabbi Levin before entering the cash advance industry. He shares the two conditions Rabbi Levin set for him to maintain his spiritual identity while working: keeping a morning learning schedule and taking on a specific daily commitment.The Tzedakah Pledge: In a practical lesson on bitachon (trust), Mendel explains his "pledge system" for charity. He describes how pledging to give more than he thinks he can afford at the start of the year has led to consistent blessings and the ability to meet those goals.Modern Boundaries: Mendel offers a "rant" on the importance of daily Rambam for every Chassid and shares his personal discipline of turning off his phone entirely between Mincha and Maariv to stay present.Postville Nostalgia: From the "blue bus" rides from Milwaukee to Melava Malkas at the Rubashkin home and the "character" of the Postville community, Mendel revisits the sights and sounds of his formative years.Join us for an energetic and honest conversation about taking ownership of your learning, setting professional boundaries, and the power of radical generosity.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Shalom Lipszyc, a Long Island native who reflects on his "golden years" in Postville during the transformative era of 2008 and 2009. From humorous dorm pranks to navigating profound personal tragedy, Shalom shares how the tools he acquired in Yeshiva became his lifeline in adulthood.Key highlights of this episode include:The First Day Odyssey: Shalom recalls the frantic start to his Postville journey—oversleeping his alarm for a 6:00 AM flight and realizing mid-air that it was his birthday. He shares how a warm birthday Farbrengen in his dorm room set the tone for his two-year stay.Dorm Life and "Secret Rooms": A look back at the lighthearted side of Yeshiva, including the quest to clone keys for "secret" locker rooms and the infamous day the students locked the chef in the kitchen for being late with lunch.The "Post-Raid" Diet: Shalom describes the resilience of the community following the Agri-Processors raid, recalling nights spent unloading trucks of donated food in -30 degree weather and living off "Turkish salad" and giant, poorly plucked chickens for weeks.Finding God in the Forest: In a deeply moving segment, Shalom shares the story of losing his infant daughter, Esther Gittel. He discusses how the spiritual vocabulary of Yeshiva helped him process grief and how a chance song by Joey Newcomb ("177") provided a miraculous "hug from Hashem" during his darkest hour.The Two-Year Rule: Shalom explains his observation that a second year in Postville is vital for growth, as it takes time to transition from being "mothered" to becoming an independent person who learns for themselves.True to Yourself: Offering advice to the next generation, Shalom emphasizes that "you don't need an excuse to exist" and encourages students to be exactly who they are rather than who others expect them to be.Join us for a powerful conversation that balances classic Yeshiva nostalgia with profound lessons on Bitachon (trust) and the enduring strength of the Jewish soul.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we sit down with Berky Chein, a Baltimore-based alumnus and great-grandson of the legendary Chosid Reb Berke Chein. Berky shares a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, moving from a quiet bochur to a vocal advocate for emotional health and wellness.Key highlights of this episode include:Emotional Health & Alcohol Awareness: Berky discusses his public op-ed regarding the lack of emotional health tools in the community. He shares his personal "teshuva" story of moving away from unhealthy drinking and explores why people often turn to substances to numb pain rather than dealing with what they are holding onto.The Torah of Sourdough: What began as a COVID-19 hobby evolved into a popular blog where Berky draws parallels between the patient process of baking bread—using simple ingredients like flour and water—and the layers of meaning found in Torah and personal growth.Stepping Out of the Box: Reflecting on his transformation from an extremely shy teenager who "literally did not talk," Berky explains why it is vital for individuals to step out of their "box" to let their inner light and radiance fill the world.The Horse and Buggy Purim: Berky recounts a legendary memory from the 2006-2007 winter in Postville, where a major blizzard didn't stop the bochurim from renting a horse and buggy and parading through mountains of snow to bring Simcha to the town.Mindful Mitzvos: Berky shares a fresh perspective on his current favorite mitzvah, netilat yadayim (washing hands), and how he uses it as a "grounding moment" to practice being present and showing gratitude for a healthy body.Join us for a conversation that balances nostalgic Yeshiva memories with practical tools for emotional wellness and a unique look at how the simplest daily actions can lead to a more meaningful life.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Shmuel Seskutov, who holds a family record for being one of at least six brothers to attend the Yeshiva. Originally from Milwaukee, Shmuel shares his journey from the familiar halls of Postville to his multifaceted professional life in upstate New York. Key highlights of this episode include:The Appliance Entrepreneur: Shmuel discusses his unique side business selling "scratch and dent" high-end appliances. He shares how he and his partner find luxury brands like Viking and Wolf to sell to customers looking for quality on a budget.Property Management Realities: Currently managing a portfolio of 10 properties and 42 units, Shmuel explains the "hands-on" nature of his work, where he serves as both the manager and the maintenance crew to keep everything up to code.Insights from the Campus Front: Reflecting on his time helping at a Chabad House, Shmuel shares a powerful perspective on the secular world, noting that students with total freedom are often the "saddest people" searching for the meaning that Torah and Yiddishkeit provide.The Tefillin Project: Shmuel details a successful initiative sponsored by an alumnus where 10 college students committed to putting on Tefillin every day for a full semester to earn their own pair.Life Lessons from Postville: Shmuel revisits the "environment" of the Yeshiva, explaining why it is a vital foundation that is much harder to replicate once you enter the working world. He also shares a transformative teaching from Rabbi Levin about focusing on "adding light" rather than struggling with the "darkness".The Great Ice Chase: In one of the more humorous moments of the series, Shmuel recalls the time he ditched Seder for the kitchen and was chased for two blocks through the ice by a surprisingly fast Rabbi Levin.Join us for an engaging conversation about entrepreneurship, the power of a Jewish environment, and the importance of Tzedakah in professional success.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we sit down with Nochum Sossonko, a software developer who witnessed the evolution of the Postville Yeshiva across three distinct eras. From the early "Y2K" days to the expansion of the Shul, Nochum shares a wealth of memories that define the unique spirit of the community. Key highlights of this episode include:The Three Eras of Postville: Nochum describes experiencing the Yeshiva as it transformed from a tiny group of 15 students to a bustling crowd of 50, and eventually back to a more intimate setting.The Y2K "Apocalypse": A humorous look back at the turn of the millennium in Postville, including stories of locals stocking up on canned goods for a global collapse that never came.Legends of the Rabbinate: From Rabbi Gurkov's remarkable ability to recite Gemara from heart to the specific demands of the Shul extension's construction—including the "freilich" saga of the 12th window.Lag Ba'omer and the "Agri" Floats: Memories of building massive parade floats inside the Agri-Processors bays and the "craziest" injury Nochum sustained while working on one.Connecting to the Rebbe: A deep dive into Nochum’s favorite Sicha regarding Yaakov Avinu Lo Meis, and how its lessons on the enduring presence of the Rebbe shaped the students' outlook in Postville.Life After Yeshiva: Currently working as a software developer, Nochum reflects on how his time in the "middle of nowhere" provided a focused environment for learning and personal growth.Join us for a conversation filled with laughter, nostalgia, and powerful lessons on maintaining a connection to one's roots while navigating the modern world.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Mendy Shepard, an alumnus originally from Detroit who now resides in Albany, New York, where he manages a nursing home and is active in communal life. Mendy shares his unique journey to Postville and the lasting impact the Yeshiva's atmosphere had on his life and the lives of his peers.Key highlights of this episode include:Rediscovering Postville: Mendy recalls his surprise at being sent to Postville after the "raid," admitted he initially thought the community and Yeshiva were "done". He describes how he quickly fell in love with the "vibe" and atmosphere of the city and the school.The Power of Presence: Reflecting on the impact of that year, Mendy shares a moving story about a fellow student who recently attributed his religious commitment to the supportive environment the group provided, even without "answering existential questions".Memorable Moments: From public Menorah lightings with Aaron Goldsmith to traveling across the Midwest for Chanukah, Mendy revisits the lively adventures of his student days. He also shares a "special" memory of an impromptu, late-night guitar and singing session in the dorm lounge that brought the entire Yeshiva together.Advice for the Future: For current bochurim worried about their future careers or lack of secular education, Mendy offers a message of bitachon (trust), encouraging them to "live in the moment" and trust that Hashem provides. He shares how his own life, including his growing family, is a testament to how blessings follow when one doesn't stress over the small things.A Lesson in Ahavas Yisrael: Mendy concludes with a powerful Dvar Torah on why Moshe breaking the Luchos (Tablets) was actually his greatest achievement. He explains how this act demonstrated Moshe's absolute love for the Jewish people, prioritizing their survival over even the Torah itself.Join us for an inspiring conversation about building community, trusting in Hashem, and the enduring lessons of Postville.

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Chaim Kudan, an alumnus originally from Albany, New York, who shares his journey from the immersive atmosphere of Postville to his current dual roles in prison advocacy and communal leadership.Key highlights of this episode include:Advocacy for the Incarcerated: Chaim discusses his impactful work with the Aleph Institute, where he advocates for individuals in the federal prison system. He provides a fascinating look into how he helps inmates secure kosher food, access Tefillin, and navigate the challenges of the "whole chain of command" within the Bureau of Prisons.Shlichus in the Snow: Moving from the fourth floor of a Crown Heights apartment to the mountains, Chaim describes his current mission in Truckee, California. Located near Lake Tahoe, Chaim shares what it’s like to run a Chabad house in an area defined by pine trees and heavy snowfall rather than palm trees and sunshine.The Postville Transformation: Chaim reflects on how Postville was his first truly "immersive" and "authentic" Yeshiva experience. He shares a lasting lesson from a Farbrengen with Rabbi Gabriel Levin that instilled in him a lifelong commitment to saying Karbonus every morning.Advice for the Modern Bochur: Offering practical wisdom for current students, Chaim emphasizes that mornings are the most important part of the day and that one must "grab the day by its beard" to be successful. He also makes a strong case for the necessity of physical exercise for mental and spiritual health.Finding Greatness in Low Points: Chaim shares a powerful Dvar Torah based on his Bar Mitzvah Parsha, explaining why Moshe breaking the Luchos—traditionally seen as a low point—was actually his "crowning accomplishment" because it prioritized his love for the Jewish people over all else.Join us for a wide-ranging conversation that touches on professional advocacy, the power of a disciplined morning routine, and the value of internal growth over a simple change of scenery

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we are joined by Sholom Tauber, a former Postville dorm counselor who transitioned from the world of intensive Yeshiva study to a successful career in accounting,,.Key highlights of this episode include:Life in Postville: Sholom reflects on his two years as a dorm counselor (shliach), describing the unique, isolated environment of Postville as a "cool" opportunity for individual attention and focused learning,,.The Transition to Professional Life: Sholom shares how he utilized his Bachelor’s in Talmudic Studies to fast-track into a Master’s in Accounting, debunking the idea that Yeshiva is a "waste of time" for those entering the workforce,,.The Language of Business: Currently working towards his CPA in Houston, Sholom explains why accounting is a vital skill for anyone interested in business or real estate,. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at his work in the potato commodity industry,.Financial Literacy for Bochurim: In a deep-dive "mini-class," Sholom explains the power of compounding interest and the S&P 500,. He offers practical advice on why starting to save even small amounts at age 18 can lead to significant wealth later in life,,.Avoiding the Debt Trap: Sholom warns about the "consistent" danger of credit card debt and high interest rates, sharing personal insights on the importance of building an emergency fund before marriage,.Whether you are a current student curious about the "real world" or an alumnus looking for practical financial wisdom, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on balancing Torah values with professional success

In this episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast, we sit down with Moshe Korf to discuss his journey from a "troubled bochur" to a successful professional and community member. Moshe shares his childhood roots in Delray Beach, Florida, and the pivotal moments that led him to Postville.Key highlights of this episode include:The Power of Environment: Moshe reflects on how a single summer camp experience without proper supervision led to a "cascading effect" on his religious observance, offering a cautionary tale about the importance of a supportive environment.The Cell Phone Saga: Moshe details his "low point" in Postville—clashing with Rabbi Levin over a hidden cell phone, which eventually led to his expulsion. He explains how this humbling experience became a major turning point, leading to a significant spiritual "aliyah" when he was eventually welcomed back.Yeshiva vs. College: Now working in construction project management, Moshe compares his academic experiences. He explains why the analytical thinking he developed through learning Gemara has been more valuable in the real world than his formal college education.Lessons in Tzedakah: Moshe shares why Tzedakah is his favorite mitzvah, drawing a fascinating parallel between Jewish law and neuroscience regarding how daily actions mold the brain and soul.Memories of Postville: From creating his own Sudoku puzzles to a legendary "heist" involving a borrowed projector, Moshe shares lighthearted stories of his time as a student.Join us for a candid conversation about resilience, the impact of honesty, and finding success by applying Yeshiva values to professional life

This podcast features an interview with Moshe "Momo" Rosner, an alumnus of the Postville Yeshiva who recounts his unique experiences living in the Iowa community during the 2000s. Rosner details the chaos of the 2008 federal immigration raid on the local Agriprocessors plant, describing how he witnessed the arrival of helicopters and federal agents while at home for breakfast. He shares personal stories about his education, including his journey to a yeshiva in France and the challenges he faced gaining acceptance there. The conversation also explores his transition into entrepreneurship, where he now balances business ownership with a commitment to communal Torah study and faith. Rosner concludes by reflecting on the enduring bond shared by Postville alumni and the spiritual lessons he carries into his current life in Florida.

Join us for an engaging episode of the Postville Yeshiva Alumni Podcast featuring Reuven Abenaim, an educator, life coach, and author originally from Montreal.In this recording, Reuven reflects on his time in Postville during the challenging year of 2009, sharing vivid memories of the Yeshiva's "upside down" period following the raid, including the infamous weeks of eating nothing but chicken nuggets and the presence of Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin during his house arrest.Beyond his Yeshiva days, Reuven discusses his multifaceted professional life, which includes:◦Torah Education: Teaching Gemara and Halacha in Montreal.◦The Art of Shatnez Checking: Sharing the fascinating (and sometimes humorous) process of identifying forbidden fabric mixtures using microscopes and traditional methods.◦Authoring a New Sefer: His research into the biographies and Torah insights of North African sages from Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria.Reuven concludes with a powerful message for current students, explaining why every moment in Yeshiva—even the smallest detail of a Tosafot—serves as a vital foundation for a person's future worldview and inner strength.