Aliyah isn’t just a flight and a moving truck.It’s a total reset of how you think about parnassah, gashmiyus, bitachon, and what “quality of life” actually means.In this episode, I sit down with Eli Freedman, founder of Cork & Cellar Wine Club, to talk about what it really takes to move to Israel and stay – spiritually, emotionally, and financially.Eli shares how he:Went from Boston → Wall Street → Montreal → Beit ShemeshHad zero interest in Aliyah… until COVID, a grandchild in Israel, and a breaking point in CanadaSold his house and business with no Plan B so he couldn’t run backWent through the “Eretz Yisrael car wash” – a painful but powerful reset of his gashmiyus and bitachonRebuilt his career from scratch, launching Cork & Cellar, a boutique Israeli wine club for U.S. customersFound a real rav and kehillah after years of feeling disconnectedBuilt a serious morning learning seder and finished Shas multiple times while running a businessWe also talk about:Why you must come with a realistic parnassah plan – and still expect it to breakThe mindset shift from “keeping up with the Joneses” to “being happy with less but living with more”How living in Eretz Yisrael forces you to actually use your emunah and bitachon, not just talk about themThe balance between enjoying good wine and not turning gashmiyus into your ikarAbout our guest:Eli Freedman is the founder of Cork & Cellar Wine Club, connecting small Israeli wineries with wine lovers in the U.S., and helping boutique winemakers who would never make it to American shelves. He lives in Beit Shemesh with his family.If this episode gave you chizuk or clarity about Aliyah and mindset,please follow Shtark Tank, leave a rating, and share it with a friend who’s thinking about moving to Israel.

100th episode. World-class Torah educator. All your burning questions.To mark our 100th episode, Rav Aryeh Lebowitz joins Shtark Tank for a wide-ranging Q&A on what it really means to be a Ben Torah in the workforce.We talk about:“You’re never going to be Rav Schachter… and that’s okay” – setting healthy goals in learningGadol biographies, ambition, and why you’re not supposed to be the Chafetz ChaimHow to grow in learning when you’re working full time and raising a familyStress and guilt: when “I’m not learning enough” is healthy – and when it’s toxicWho should go into chinuch and rabbanus… and who should notAliyah, parnassah, and the real math of teaching in Eretz YisraelMinyan, mincha at work, and missing davening for familyPhones, attention spans, and why Rav Aryeh deleted TwitterIt’s a packed, honest conversation with one of the most listened-to Torah teachers in the world – and a fitting way to celebrate 100 episodes of Shtark Tank.If this episode helped you, the best “100th episode gift” you can give is simple: follow the show, leave a 5-star rating, and share it with one friend who’s trying to balance Torah, work, and family.

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.”

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 limitedWhen to pivot — and how to choose a practice that protects ShabbosThe billable-hour trap and what it does to your mindCan you ever “limit your hours” and still advance?Real talk on money, promotions, and gam zu l’tovahShabbos at the firm: teamwork, gratitude, and derech eretzMarbitz Torah without a title — from shiurim to writingHarsh listener feedback: “For what are these costs worth paying?”Hashkafic tension: excellence vs. moderationMarriage, parenting, and faith when energy and time are scarceIf 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.

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 HearHow a Ben Torah can thrive in Big Law without losing the plot“Slipping vs. reassessing” — setting honest standards after yeshivaThe Mincha hack that anchors your day (and your network)Peer pressure at the office: values, money, and role modelsBalancing a Shabbos-only pulpit with a full-time firm roleLessons from COVID that helped after Oct 7Career calling vs. community calling: picking your tafkidGuest BioRabbi Yehuda Halpert — shul rabbi in Teaneck, Big Law lawyer, and author of Speaking to an Empty Shul: Timeless Lessons from Unprecedented Times.Quick TakeawaysBuild a system that works with your scheduleGuard your company — work with good peopleUse Mincha as a daily reset and natural networking momentReview your standards every 6–12 months; adjust with intentYou can be excellent at your craft and strong in your valuesDid you enjoy this episode?Follow Shtark Tank on Spotify and rate the show (it really helps).Share this episode with a friendJoin the Shtark Tank WhatsApp group for episode drops and Q&A (link in show notes).

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 timeExpress real hakaras hatov — to Hashem, to soldiers, to each otherSee the hand of Hashem in political and military realityUnderstand what this nes demands of usA 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.

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.Links⁠To join the David Schwartz Divrei Torah chat⁠⁠To watch the video from the Azkara⁠HighlightsBen 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.

Moshe Chaim started out as a successful Kollel yungerman. But soon after he transitioned to the workforce, he found himself in a therapists office, as his professional struggles had already started to spill over in to his marriage, emotional health, and other areas.This true story (with names changed) is the case study that Rabbi Dr. Yosef Sokol uses to introduce his book 'Becoming Godly'. The book combines Machshava from the Ramchal and others, along with psycholgy, to give a framework for religous growth.We spoke about having a healthy relationship with the past, as a neccesssary condition for building a better future. We also spoke about finding meaning at work, the role of labels, and some practical tips ahead of the Yamim Noraim.Please help us grow the show by leaving a 5-star review and hitting the subscribe button. Thanks!Guest BioRabbi Dr. Yosef Sokol (credentials) is a licensed clinical psychologist, professor at Touro University, and VA research scientist specializing in suicide prevention and recovery. He developed Continuous Identity Cognitive Therapy (CI-CT), an innovative approach that supports healing and recovery from suicide attempts and ideation. He has numerous peer reviewed publications and leads major research grants from the VA and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Dr. Sokol earned his PhD from Hofstra University, received semichah from Yeshivas Bais Yosef Novardok, and is the author of Becoming Godly: Integrating Torah and Psychology to Guide Us in Emulating Hashem. He is dedicated to bringing recovery-oriented, identity-focused approaches to healing individuals struggling with suicide.

It’s Elul, a time to prepare for the Yamim Noraim with the theme of Defining Success.When we take stock of our lives with a cheshbon hanefesh, we’re really asking: Where am I now—and where should I be?That’s the core question of this series: how to define success as a Ben Torah in the workplace. Many of our rabbeim push us toward ambitious goals in learning, but how do we balance those ideals with the blessed responsibilities of work, family, and community?This week’s guest is Rav Simi Lerner. Rav Simi is an educator in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, a passionate Hirschian thinker, and—on the side—an electrician in Beit Shemesh. We discuss how Rav Hirsch’s idea of Torah im Derech Eretz and other foundational principles can help us shape a grounded, realistic, and meaningful definition of success.🎧 Before you listen: please take 10 seconds to help us grow by leaving a 5-star review and hitting subscribe. Thank you!ReferencesJudaism from Within podcastRav Hirsch on Viduy

It’s Elul, and we’re focusing on Defining Success as Bnei Torah in the workplace. What does real success look like? Is it possible to set goals that are both ambitious and compassionate?This week, we sit down with Rav Shimon Isaacson, Rosh Yeshiva of Mevaseret. Before entering the world of Torah and chinuch, Rav Isaacson worked in Big Law in New York City. Many assume he left that life to escape its spiritual emptiness — but the truth is much more surprising.SummaryIn this episode, I sat down with Rav Shimon Isaacson, Rosh Yeshiva of Mevaseret, to trace his remarkable journey from Big Law associate to respected mechanech and community leader in Israel. Rav Isaacson shares how his wife’s passion for Aliyah shaped their family’s path, how he balanced intense Torah learning with a demanding legal career, and how an unusual arrangement of “lawyer in the summer, learner in the year” gave him the springboard into full-time chinuch.The conversation dives into big life questions: What makes for a successful decision-making process? How can a Ben Torah thrive in the workforce? What does passion in Avodas Hashem look like? Rav Isaacson also reflects on 30 years of Aliyah, the role of rebbeim as life guides, the value of combining Torah greatness with real-world experience, and how yeshiva can prepare talmidim for decades of growth ahead.

This is the third and final week of our Summer Listening Series, where I share some of the podcasts I enjoy on my commute. Next week, we’ll be back with a brand new episode—stay tuned.This week’s pick is from Shu"t First, Ask Questions Later, hosted by Rabbi Moshe Kurtz. This podcast truly takes advantage of the medium—bringing together voices from across the Jewish world to learn Torah in conversation.The featured episode is especially relevant to Shtark Tank listeners, as Rabbi Kurtz is joined by Mr. Gedalia Wielgus, a lawyer and talmid chacham, for a thought-provoking discussion about a wild case of Yibum.Check out Shtarktank.org for exclusive written articles!

While we’re on our bein hazmanim break and gearing up for some exciting episodes in Elul, I wanted to share a podcast I’ve been enjoying on my commute.This week’s recommendation is a thought-provoking episode of the Iyun Podcast, hosted by Rabbi Ari Koretsky — in my opinion, one of the best podcast hosts out there. Each episode takes a deep, nuanced look at issues like the Charedi draft and other pressing topics.In this episode, Does the Torah Protect?, Rabbi Dr. Yitzchak Lifshitz offers a fresh and engaging perspective. The conversation ties closely to themes we explore on Shtark Tank, especially the relationship between the Beis Midrash and the outside world.Give it a listen — I think you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.Sign up for our newsletter at ShtarkTank.org

In 2004, Rav Ari Katz moved with his family to Gush Katif, to serve as Rosh Yeshiva of a local high school. Just over a year later, soldiers knocked on his door and told him to leave. In this 9 Days special episode, Rav Katz shares:What drew him to Gush Katif despite knowing the threatsThe beauty, unity, and spiritual strength of the communityHis firsthand account of the expulsion—including “the longest day of his life”How he and his community coped with the trauma, picked themselves up, and started againWhy he believes October 7th began in the summer of 2005Modern Day Churban?As we approach Tisha B’Av, the day we mourn our exiles and national losses, this story feels especially relevant. Because Gush Katif was not ancient history—its a kind of modern Churban, including the destruction of entire communities, shuls and schools.And yet, its a very complicated story. The 'disengagement' was the product of a Jewish government, and a Jewish army comprised of Jewish soldiers. The residents were not sent in to actual exile, they moved in to other parts of a flourishing and successful State of Israel. Rav Katz doesn't shy away from these complexities.Pain and HopeWe spoke about pain and trauma, but we also spoke about resilience. After the final Mincha minyan, David Chatuel addressed the community. A year earlier, his preganant wife and all four of his children were murdered by terrorists. He got up and said "When tragedy strikes, you can crawl under your blanket—or you can get up and live."Guest BioRav Ari Katz is the Director of Sderot Hesder YeshivaFor MoreMake sure to sign up for exclusive written content at ShtarkTank.orgFor more on the Gush Katif Heritage Center click hereFor more on Sderot Hesder Yeshiva click here

Yaakov Ehrenkranz grew up in Memphis, learned in KBY and the Mir, got smicha from YU—and today helps dozens of families navigate the financial realities of life in Israel. In this wide-ranging conversation, we cover his personal journey from the American South to Ramot Beit Shemesh, and his professional journey from options trading to financial advising.Check out ShtarkTank.org and subscribe for exclucive written content! This week will feature one listeners Aliyah journey.We talk about:Why real estate is the #1 financial challenge facing OlimWhat Americans get wrong about “affording Aliyah”How Israeli society creates more meaning—and more happinessThe role of values in long-term financial planningBalancing money and shalom bayisAnd much more—including lessons from Rabbi Dr. Aaron Levine zt"l, the economics professor and Talmid Chacham who shaped his thinking early on.

Rav Boruch Clinton spent two decades as a high school Rebbe before pivoting to a second career in IT. Along the way, he wrote prolifically about Torah, technology, and the challenges of working life — including a practical guide for Bnei Torah entering the workforce.In this episode, we explore:Why Rav Hirsch remains his intellectual and spiritual anchorHow writing became his tool for learning, clarity, and impactWhat Torah actually says about choosing a careerThe dangers of romanticizing our generation’s nisayonosWhy being a mentch is a core Torah value — especially at workPlus: the forgotten career that now pays $92K/year as an apprentice, the Hirschian take on Kabbalah, and how to push back respectfully when Torah values are at stake.“If you’re a Ben Torah in the Beis Medrash, you should be a Ben Torah in the boardroom. No barriers. No masks.” – Rav Boruch ClintonResourcesRav Boruch Clinton’s Substack: Bechol Drachecha“A Career Guide for Bnei Torah” by Rav Clinton (available via Amazon)

“Life is like a train. You might get derailed, but you know where the train needs to go. You get back on the track.”Rav Reuven Berman didn’t plan to leave chinuch. He made Aliyah with a dream job teaching Torah in Yerushalayim—but it quickly became clear that the math didn’t work. With five kids and growing responsibilities, he transitioned into the business world while trying to hold on to his identity as a ben Torah.In this honest and moving conversation, we cover:✅ Being grouned in business while also connecting to yeshiva✅ What he learned from a personal tragedy✅ Why teaching—even part-time—can protect your neshama✅ The power of a strong minyan✅ How to stop dreaming of the “perfect community” and live in the one you’ve got✅ And why every year in yeshiva still counts—even if you go to work laterReuven shares what helped him stay grounded through transitions, success, and grief—and why he still dreams of being back in the beit midrash full time.—Check out ShtarkTank.org for exclusice written content!

What happens when a full-time chiropractor with a busy practice, a big heart, and zero spare time decides to launch a global tzedakah revolution—one dollar at a time?This week on Shtark Tank, we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Donath, founder of Daily Giving, a platform that’s quietly transformed the world of tzedakah. What started as a flash of inspiration in a shul lobby has turned into a global force for chesed, distributing over $24 million to 100+ vetted nonprofits (including ADI Negev) and empowering over 21,000 daily givers around the world.But the road wasn’t smooth. In this raw and inspiring conversation, Dr. Donath shares:🧠 His powerful “epiphany moment” that sparked Daily Giving💵 The emotional struggle of transitioning from volunteer founder to salaried CEO🧘 How self-compassion and meditation saved him from burnout📉 The surprising downside of professional success—and why he gave up Tuesdays📚 The books, seforim, and mentors that changed how he thinks about purpose🛠️ His evolving views on balance, ambition, fatherhood, and the cost of impactResources Mentioned:💸 Become a daily giver: DailyGiving.org📘 Books: It's All the Same to Me and The Three Conditions by Moshe Gersht📘 Radical Compassion by Tara Brach🎥 Rabbi Alon Anava – “My Life After Death Experience”: Watch on YouTube📗 Living Emunah series by Rabbi David Ashear📙 Living Legend – Biography of Rav David GrossmanFor More Shtark Tank go to ShtarkTank.org

This week on Shtark Tank, we welcome Rabbi Shalom Rosner—Rav of Kehillat Nofei HaShemesh, Rosh Beit Midrash at Machon Lev, beloved Daf Yomi maggid shiur, and my uncle—for a deeply personal conversation about his father, Dr. Fred Rosner z”l.Check out the newly released Shalom Rav Birkon (bentcher) here.Born in Berlin in 1935 and rescued via Kindertransport, Dr. Rosner began life with no formal Jewish education. But he went on to become not only a world-renowned physician and medical ethicist, but a serious talmid chacham, translator, and teacher of Torah and halachic medicine.In this episode, we explore:The incredible story of Dr. Rosner’s late start in Torah learning—and how one summer of Mishnah changed everythingHis unwavering consistency and sense of mission, both in the hospital and the beit midrashThe evolution of Jewish medical ethics, and how Dr. Rosner worked alongside gedolim like Rav Moshe Feinstein zt”lBalancing public influence with personal humilityThe quiet legacy of a man who never wasted a moment, right up to the final dayAlong the way, we also discuss family, Shabbos zmiros, Rambam, professional responsibility, and what it really looks like to synthesize Torah and derech eretz—without compromising either.Check out ShtarkTank.org for more!

We recorded a regular Shtark Tank conversation with Tuvia Eisenman—about sales, chessed, and life in Israel.Then the war broke out.Tuvia was called back to reserve duty, and he joins us now from his IDF base with an emergency update. He walks us through the past few days, shares what it’s like on the ground in the Jordan Valley, and offers powerful reflections on what soldiers and their families are facing right now.After the update, we return to the original conversation, recorded just days earlier. Tuvia shares how a yeshivish kid from Passaic ended up serving in the IDF, building a sales career in Israel, and using those skills to raise millions for nonprofits around the world. We talk about the art of listening—how it drives both sales and parenting—and how he balances intense frontline experiences with raising a family and living a life of purpose.We also dive into the world of nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Tuvia offers a frank take on why most campaigns fall flat, how organizations can do better, and why peer-to-peer giving—though messy and personal—is actually one of the frum community’s greatest strengths.

Simon Baum is a seasoned lawyer, a Daf Yomi maggid shiur (twice daily!), and a thoughtful voice on what it means to live an integrated Torah life while fully immersed in the workforce. But his real story begins not with success, but with a breakdown.In this moving and practical conversation, Simon opens up about:Hitting rock bottom after closing a billion-dollar dealReframing his relationship with Hashem from stress to serenityGiving a Daf Yomi shiur as a path to deeper learning and communityThe relationship between professional success and spiritual growthSimon shares his high-powered legal career, his weekly flights between London and Israel, and the moment of inner collapse that made him question everything—even at the peak of outward success.Real growth came not from switching jobs—but from changing his view of what it means to live with Hashem. Guilt-based Yiddishkeit gave way to an honest, intimate relationship with the Ribbono Shel Olam.Simon moved to a Tel Aviv law firm, enabling a less frantic schedule and new consistency in his learning. His twice-daily Daf Yomi shiur has grown into a tight-knit chevra with shared values and simchas.Work isn’t just a B’dieved. Simon explains how his law career actually deepened his Torah—offering insights, challenges, and identity shifts he couldn't have experienced elsewhere.Simon explores how to grow spiritually without falling into toxic introspection, and how healthier self-worth leads to healthier avodah, relationships, and responses to stress.Olam HaYedidus by Rav Shlomo WolbeBikshu M’sham and K’savim by Rav SoloveitchikCrossing the Unknown Sea by David WhyteMoney Quote: “Real relationships have closeness and distance. You don’t do Avodas Hashem just to tick boxes—you do it because it’s real, and you want to live it.”Chapters00:00 Intro and Early Life04:17 The Turning Point: Realizing the Need for Change10:02 Transforming Life: Practical Changes and New Perspectives17:00 Integrating Faith and Daily Life: A New Approach21:59 The Pilgrimage of Identity in Work23:50 Crisis and Self-Discovery27:19 Managing Stress and Relationships31:17 Navigating Self-Reflection and Growth35:39 Seeking Professional Help vs. Self-Help41:50 Future Aspirations44:00 Lightning Round

As we prepare for Shavuos, Rav Moshe Taragin joins Shtark Tank to discuss his powerful new book on Rav Yehuda Amital zt”l, a towering educator who fused unwavering Emunah with deep compassion and realism.The conversation moves from personal to national—from the rehab ward of an IDF hospital to the historical arc of Jewish destiny—and touches on some of the most urgent questions facing Bnei Torah today:What does real long-term chinuch look like?Is Jewish identity dependent on Torah observance?How do we avoid turning ambition into burnout?What does it mean to live a life of Kiddush Hashem—in Israel or abroad?To order the book: To order in IsraelTo order in America🧠 Key Topics:Faith under fire: Writing a sefer while in the ICU with his sonThe duality of chinuch: Rav Amital and Rav Lichtenstein as complementary voicesJewish identity beyond mitzvah observance: What Rav Amital taught us about Am YisraelKiddush Hashem as national mission: How Rav Amital redefined religious ZionismHungarian vs. Lithuanian Torah cultures: Ambition, hasmada, and mental healthLiving b’achdus: What we can learn from Oslo, Rabin’s assassination, and post-October 7th IsraelCareers, calling, and giving: Rav Taragin on choosing work that contributes to Yeshua Shel Olam💬 Quotes to Remember:“Kiddush Hashem isn’t just an individual act—it’s the arc of Jewish history unfolding.”“Stories don’t just teach; they preserve a lost world and reframe our present.”“Rav Amital reminded us: You’re a human being before you’re a masmid.”More Shtark Tank! Make sure to sign up for our newsletter at ⁠ShtarkTank.org⁠Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections07:11 The Role of Community and Family in Crisis13:13 Authenticity in Education and Long-Term Impact20:35 Jewish Identity and the Concept of Bechirah27:21 Kiddush Hashem: Personal and National Perspectives39:17 Lessons from the Oslo Accord and Internal Struggles45:52 Balancing Ambition and Mental Health in Jewish Education

What does it take to go from learning Torah to owning your unique chelek in Torah—and maybe even publishing it?In this powerful return to Shtark Tank, Rav Tzvi Goldstein joins us for a deep and practical conversation about writing, editing, publishing, and most of all—developing a personal connection to Torah that lasts beyond Yeshiva.Why your unique Torah insight matters—and why you might not have permission to keep it to yourselfHow Rav Hirsch and Rav Soloveitchik’s hashkafos shaped Rav Tzvi’s own Torah worldviewWriting as a spiritual discipline: not just for clarity, but for growth and legacyWhat to do before you publish (and how much it really costs)Behind the scenes of editing seforim for Rabbanim and laymen alikeWhy Substack might be the best starting point for sharing your TorahAnd yes—why your writing doesn't have to wait until you're 60Best Quotes“If you really have a unique Torah idea… you don’t have permission to keep it to yourself.”“Writing isn't just expression—it's clarity, chazara, and connection.”“Publishing a sefer isn't just about ego or status. It’s about celebrating Torah—with yourself, your family, and your community.”Thinking of Publishing?Rav Tzvi breaks down the entire process:Content edit → Copy edit → Proofread → Typesetting → Final read-through → Print or publish online.Whether you go with a major publisher or self-publish, he offers tips, costs, and what to expect—without the smoke and mirrors.For More from Rav TzviCheck out this substack post on the same topicOrder Rav Tzvi's book Halachic Worldviews

As we prepare for Shavuos, Rav Moshe Shwed, Director of All Torah, joins Shtark Tank to discuss the intersection of Torah, technology, and responsibility. A Brisk alum turned digital visionary, Rav Moshe shares how he helped launch some of the most popular Torah apps in the world — including All Daf, All Parsha, All Mishnah, and more.This conversation goes beyond product design. We dive into how working Bnei Torah can stay grounded in their learning, how accountability and consistency build spiritual momentum, and why technology — if used wisely — can be a powerful tool for harbatzas Torah.What We Discuss:Rav Moshe’s journey: Brisk, BMG, and the unexpected call from (or to) the OUThe origin story of All Daf and the 2019 Siyum HaShas pushCreating curated, Yomi-focused Torah content for the real worldA marathon runner from Georgia and the unexpected power of accessible TorahTorah and tech: Is it lechatchila or bedieved? Rav Moshe’s nuanced takeBuilding for depth in a short-form world: design choices and user realitiesWhat happens if the apps go offline? The mission to lower the barrier to entryThe launch of All Mishnah, All Parsha, and new frontiers like Nach YomiTorah as the ultimate unifier — and why that matters now more than everThe mem-ches kinyanei Torah and building a national beis medrashAdvice for working Bnei Torah: accountability, chaburas, and small stepsHow Torah changes the way your family sees youLinks & Resources:Download the apps: All Torah App SuiteMentioned seforim:Mishnas Rav Aharon (Rav Aharon Kotler)Shaarei HaZmanim (Rav Dessler, grandson of the Michtav M’Eliyahu)Don't miss out on excellent written content! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter at ShtarkTank.orgChapters00:00 Introduction04:57 The Origins of AllDaf and Its Unique Approach19:59 Balancing Technology and Traditional Learning36:45 The Unifying Power of Torah43:47 Success in Learning50:30 Lightning Round

What happens when the dream job just doesn’t feel like your dream?In this episode, we sit down with Yaakov (Bryant) Oberg, who left a successful banking career in LA in search of something deeper. What started as spiritual curiosity led to yeshiva in Yerushalayim, and later to a new challenge—integrating Torah learning into the reality of full-time work.He started out by learning a full morning seder followed by working in the afternoon and evening. But then he burnt out.This lead him to help launch: Kollel Gedulei Tzion, a kollel built around a bold idea—a half seder of high-quality learning for Bnei Torah in the workforce.This episode explores:The decision to walk away from a high paying job in pursuit of meaningWhat it looks like to live an integrated Torah–work lifestyleWhy sometimes less learning can lead to more growthIt’s a powerful reminder that success isn’t about how many hours you log—it’s about where your heart is.For more information on Kollel Gedulei Tzion, led by Rabbi Zev Horowitz, go to https://www.geduleitzion.org/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:12 Leaving Corporate Life for Yeshiva18:13 Establishing a New Learning Framework33:43 Reflecting on Work, Passion and SpiritualitySubscribe to our newsletter at ⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠ for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our ⁠⁠quiet whatsapp group ⁠⁠for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Thank you for listening.If this episode moved you, please take a moment to rate and review — it helps us bring more meaningful conversations to more people.Subscribe to Shtark Tank for thoughtful interviews, honest reflections, and real conversations for Bnei Torah navigating the modern world.

This week on Shtark Tank, we bring you a special megapod in honor of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut — a deep, emotional journey through stories of sacrifice, strength, and national pride.In this episode:Yakir and Josh Hexter's Story: Why one bereaved father turned down a public interview — and the lesson we all need to hear.Avraham and Daniel Colthuf: Two brothers, lawyers and reserve soldiers, who serve as chazanim for IDF funerals, standing by families in their darkest moments.Collection of Israel Stories:Jeff Swartz, former CEO of Timberland, on falling in love with Israel (from Invested podcast).Nobel laureate Professor Yisrael Aumann on losing his son and a powerful shiva visit.Highlights from Michael Eisenberg on making Aliyah and building a career in Israel.A personal reflection from my father about how a fallen soldier shaped our Aliyah story.Subscribe to our newsletter at ⁠shtarktank.org⁠ for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our ⁠quiet whatsapp group ⁠for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Thank you for listening.If this episode moved you, please take a moment to rate and review — it helps us bring more meaningful conversations to more people.Subscribe to Shtark Tank for thoughtful interviews, honest reflections, and real conversations for Bnei Torah navigating the modern world.00:00 Intro02:16 Yakir Hexter HY"D and Silent Grief07:30 Interview with Colthof Brothers54:56 Short Stories

With Yom HaShoah coming up this week, I sat down with Lawrence Burian, the COO of LIV Golf and the son of a Holocaust survivor. Before joining LIV Golf, Lawrence held a number of senior positions at the Madison Square Garden Company, the group behind the MSG Arena, the Knicks, the Rangers, MSG Network, and more. We spoke about his career, his father’s story, and how the two deeply interact. We also discussed Lawrence’s family’s involvement in Holocaust remembrance efforts, what Holocaust education should look like in 2025, and what it means to carry legacy into boardrooms, classrooms, and Jewish homes.This is a conversation about memory—but also mission.About trauma—but also strength.About Jewish identity that doesn't just survive—but builds.Topics we explore:Growing up as the son of a survivor—and what that taught Lawrence about purpose and pressureThe power of showing up proudly Jewish in high-stakes roomsLessons from a 13-year-old in Auschwitz that still echo in today’s leadership decisionsWhy Holocaust education needs to shift from trauma to relevanceOctober 7th, antisemitism, and why “never again” has to mean action—not slogansMentioned in this episode:A Boy From Bustina by Andrew Burian z”l (Order here – all proceeds go to Yad Vashem)Lessons From Our ParentsMan’s Search for Meaning – Viktor FranklThe Choice – Edith EgerSubscribe to our newsletter at shtarktank.org for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our quiet whatsapp group for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:51 Lawrence's Journey in the Sports Industry06:53 Andrew Burian z"l, Lawrence's father16:00 Navigating Identity and Responsibility21:54 Contrasting Generations: From Trauma to Success25:00 Engaging the Next Generation in Holocaust Education33:47 Reflections Post October 7th39:45 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

What the Pesach Story Teaches About Justice, Dignity, and Purpose in the WorkplaceThis special bonus episode is for all the busy bnei Torah out there — whether you're scrubbing your kitchen, running errands, or on the road for Yom Tov.We know how hectic things get before Pesach, and sitting down to read a dvar Torah isn’t always realistic. That’s why we’re bringing you the audio version of a new essay posted on shtarktank.org — so you can prepare for the chag while on the move.In this episode, we explore:What Yetzias Mitzrayim teaches us about navigating the workplaceHow to carry values like justice, dignity, and purpose into our careersWhy this story isn’t just ancient history — it’s a blueprint for how we show up todayRead the original, and more, at: shtarktank.orgPlease sign up so that you don't miss future essays!Part of our new series of written divrei Torah from working bnei Torah — listeners and past guests of the show — The Write Way.

This special episode of Shtark Tank is a live recording from our third community event—and the first ever live podcast-style conversation. Recorded at the beautiful DLA Piper offices in Tel Aviv, the room was full of professionals, Bnei Torah, and thoughtful seekers, all gathered to explore a question at the heart of both our Jewish identity and our working lives: What does it mean to be free?We were honored to host Rabbi David Lapin, whose Torah, business experience, and wisdom challenged our assumptions about freedom, slavery, technology, work, and what really defines success.Together, we unpack:Why "freedom from" isn’t enough—and how Torah gives us freedom to rise above instinctThe hidden cost of entertainment and escapismHow Kiddush Hashem shows up at work—and why restraint is more powerful than reactionWhat Viktor Frankl teaches us about agency in the workplaceHow Shabbos might be our last line of defense in a distracted worldWhether you were there in person or are tuning in from your commute, we invite you to join this deep, practical conversation about the kind of inner freedom that can transform your life—from the boardroom to the beis medrash.Stay In TouchThere's more to Shtark Tank than just a podcast. Check out ShtarkTank.org and subscrive for meaningful blog posts. You can also check out our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.Special thanks to DLA Piper for graciously hosting. This event was sponsored in memory of Shlomo David Ben Reuven Stanley Cohen z”l, by his son Simon Cohen. Also dedicated to the memory of Yehudit Shlomit bat Breina a”hLike what you hear?Please rate, review, and share Shtark Tank with a friend. It helps us reach more Bnei Torah in the workplace—and beyond.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:18 Understanding Slavery and Freedom for professionals09:49 Finding Spirituality in a Busy Life14:52 Engaging with Torah: Quality Over Quantity17:43 Freedom and Entertainment: A Double-Edged Sword25:03 Mastering Impulses: The Power of Restraint26:30 Audience Questions31:50 The Importance of Responsibility and Boundaries32:32 Shabbos: A Sanctuary in a Busy World38:16 The Interplay of Restrictions and Freedom in Judaism

From our very first episode, writing has been a steady theme here at Shtark Tank. Over the past two episodes, we got amazing feedback about the banker who wrote world-famous sefarim and Abie Rotenberg, who not only composed legendary music but also published sefarim—on top of his day job.This week, we’re continuing that thread and talking about writing divrei Torah. But before we get into it, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new website: shtarktank.org! It features writing by Bnei Torah in the workforce—real, thoughtful Torah from people balancing work and avodas Hashem. Head over there and drop your email so you don’t miss a post.This week we’re joined by Reuven Kirschner—a systems implementor at a tech company with a ton going on beyond his 9-to-5. He recently published a sefer called Groovin’ to the Torah, and he’s one of the founding members of the growing community in Karmei Gat. We talk about motivation, time management and more.You can check Reuven out on LinkedIn, and don't forget to check out his podcast, Career Canvas.Chapters00:00 Introduction, Personal Background, Career Development08:48 The Writing Journey 19:50 Carmei Gat: A New Chapter in Life41:56 Time Management Strategies and Lightning Round

This week, we sit down with Abie Rotenberg. Abie is a legend in Jewish music, known for songs like Acheinu, Kol Berama Nishma, and Lakol Zman V’Eis—and that’s just his Hebrew work. His Journeys albums feature powerful English ballads, and his Marvelous Middos Machine series shaped generations of kids through music.But what many people don’t know is that music was never his parnassah.Abie spent decades working in his family’s business, only recently retiring. Along the way, he also taught in yeshiva, published two sefarim, and wrote a novel about baseball and Judaism.In this conversation, we spoke about:Having a passion that isn’t your jobHow music can be a form of chinuchFinding creative ways to bring Jews closer to TorahAnd yes—his deep love for baseball ⚾️Check Out Abie's BooksThe Season of Pepsi MyersEliyahu HaNaviRabbi AkivaJoin Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Today, we’re doing something a little different.Most of our episodes feature incredible role models—people who are navigating the balance between Torah and work with strength and clarity. But today, we’re going back in time to talk about someone who is no longer with us. Someone who lived over a century ago, yet whose story feels just as relevant today as it did then.This is the story of the baal habayis who shocked the Netziv.Now, focusing on a historical figure isn’t a new concept for Shtark Tank. In fact, if you haven’t yet listened to ourincredible series on the legacy of Rabbi Sacks, I highly recommend it. But today’s episode is unique for another reason.For the first time, this is not an interview. There’s no back-and-forth discussion. It’s just me, sharing a story that had adeep impact on my own life. This story comes from the fourth volume of Makor Baruch, the historical memoir written by Rav Baruch Epstein, the esteemed author of Torah Temimah, Tosefes Bracha, Baruch She’amar, and many other sefarim.Makor Baruch was written toward the end of his life, and the fourth volume, in particular, is devoted to his illustrious uncle—the Netziv, Rosh Yeshiva of Volozhin.Through its pages, we get a rare, intimate look at the Netziv’s wisdom, his middos, and his unwavering commitment toTorah and his talmidim.Some sections of this work were later translated into English under the title My Uncle, the Netziv, a book that generated its fair share of controversy. Discussions about secular studies in Volozhin, women learning Gemara, evenreading newspapers on Shabbos—these topics sparked plenty of debate. But that’s not what we’re here to talk abouttoday.Today, we’re telling the story of one of the Netziv’s top talmidim—a young man who, left Yeshiva to become a baal habayis.You will hear about the Netzivs advice for staying shtark in the workforce, how this talmid followed that advice, and ameleve malka that turned wild.Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

How do you make big decisions in life? What are the roles of emotions and excitement in Avodas Hashem? And why is schmoozing underrated? In this thought-provoking episode of Shtark Tank, Yaakov Wolff sits down with Moishe Bane to discuss the frameworks that guide a Ben Torah through the complexities of career, Avodas Hashem, and family life.What We Covered:🔥 The Art of Decision-Making: Moishe shares a four-step framework for making major life choices, from career moves to personal growth.🛤️ Stages of Life: Why every phase—yeshiva, work, marriage, parenting—requires a recalibration of priorities.💼 Choosing a Career with Purpose: How to balance financial stability with impact, and the trade-offs between a career in Torah vs. the secular workforce.🗣️ The Power of Schmoozing: How a strong chevra helps keep your values intact in the corporate world.🏡 Building a Strong Jewish Home: Why your Shabbos table—not school—is the real classroom for your children’s Yiddishkeit.🎭 Purim & Parenting: How to create a Purim Seudah that’s both uplifting and family-friendly.Relevant Articles from Moishe BaneRecalibration (from Klal Perspectives, Winter 2015, page 15)Revisiting the Attainability of GreatnessGuest Bio​Moishe (Mark) Bane is a retired senior partner and chairman of the Business Restructuring department at the international law firm Ropes & Gray. In January 2017, he became president of the Orthodox Union (OU), a position which he held for 7 yearsJoin Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of Shtark Tank, Rabbi Dr. Yosef Lynn joins us for a deep dive into the intersection of Mussar and Positive Psychology, and how these ideas can transform both personal and professional growth. As the Mashgiach of Machon Yaakov, Rabbi Lynn has dedicated his career to helping Bnei Torah integrate their learning into the workforce while maintaining their spiritual aspirations. He shares how understanding personal strengths, structuring learning effectively, and taking a proactive approach to marriage and career can unlock success and fulfillment.We also explore how organizations can foster healthier environments, the role of exercise in personal well-being, and practical strategies for overcoming digital distractions in today's workplace.You can check out his website, and connect with Rabbi Dr. Yosef Lynn on LinkedInYou can also check out his books: Nurture Their Nature: The Torah’s Essential Guidance for Parents and Teachers Not A Partnership: Why We Keep Getting Marriage Wrong & How We Can Get It RightKey Topics Discussed: Machon Yaakov’s Mission: How the yeshiva is designed to prepare students for success in both Torah and the workforce. Strength-Based Growth: Why identifying and leveraging your natural strengths is the key to thriving in all areas of life. Torah Learning That Works for You: Customizing your learning style and subject matter to maximize engagement and connection. Marriage & Family: The real definition of a healthy marriage (hint: it’s not a partnership) and practical strategies for nurturing relationships amidst a busy life. Career Development: The importance of finding the right role rather than just focusing on job titles. Physical & Mental Well-Being: Why exercise isn’t just a luxury but a necessity for high performance. Managing Technology: Strategies for staying present and minimizing distractions in an always-on world. Organizational Health: How company culture and team dynamics impact long-term success.Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Shtark Tank, we sit down with Aleksey Chernobelskiy to discuss his fascinating journey—from his childhood in Moscow, his path to Torah observance, and his transition into the world of real estate investing. Aleksey shares insights into balancing idealism with reality, navigating the workforce as a Ben Torah, and his unconventional decision to turn down a spot at Cambridge in favor of Yeshiva.Beyond his personal journey, Aleksey delves into the world of real estate investing, offering valuable perspectives on renting vs. buying, investment strategies, and the ethical challenges that come with managing other people’s money. He also talks about his growing online presence, the role of content creation in his career, and the ups and downs of being a public-facing figure in the digital age.Some of the topics we covered: Growing up Jewish in Moscow – The challenges of Jewish life in the Soviet Union and why his family moved to the U.S. The journey to Torah observance – How a college campus organization introduced him to Yiddishkeit and led him to Yeshiva. Turning down Cambridge for Yeshiva – The difficult decision to forego a prestigious degree in favor of a life of Torah. Finding a balance between Torah and career – How he continues to navigate the tension between work and learning. The real estate industry – His transition into real estate investing, the advantages of the industry, and the risks involved. Rent vs. Buy debate – A detailed breakdown of the financial and emotional considerations of homeownership. Content creation and social media – How he built a following on LinkedIn and Twitter, the benefits of online branding, and the challenges of public visibility. Challenges of being a Baal Teshuva in the workforce – Adjusting from the Yeshiva environment back to the secular world while maintaining religious growth. Lightning Round: His favorite sefer for hashkafa, what he does on long Friday nights, and the dream career he never pursued.💬 “If you’re proud to be Jewish, and you carry yourself with dignity, Hashem will take care of the rest.”Biography: Aleksey Chernobelskiy advises limited partners (“LPs”) on existing and future investments. He’s also the founder of GP-LP Match, a platform which allows LPs to see deals that match their specific investment criteria right in their inbox immediately after a GP submission. Aleksey writes weekly to 7,000 investors at www.LPlessons.co to explain how to properly vet and think about LP investments in the grand scheme of their portfolios. Aleksey also helps General Partners on matters relating to LPs, such as capital calls or feedback on investment decks.Prior to advising LPs, Aleksey ran STORE Capital’s $10 billion commercial real estate portfolio and oversaw the firm’s underwriting team. Aleksey graduated from University of Arizona with a quadruple major – Finance, Mathematics, Economics, and Accounting.Recommended articles: Top 15 syndication mistakes - www.lplessons.co/p/top-15-syndication-mistakes 26 questions to ask your GP -  www.lplessons.co/p/26-questions-to-ask-your-gp Do sunk costs matter in capital calls? - www.lplessons.co/p/do-sunk-costs-matter-in-capital-callsFind Aleksey: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/chernobelskiy Twitter : https://twitter.com/chernobelskiy Weekly newsletter (LP Investing Lessons): http://www.lplessons.co Register for GP-LP Match: https://forms.gplpmatch.com/register  Organizations: Jewish Arizonans on Campus (now Olami Arizona), Machon Yaakov, Machon Shlomo Books Mentioned:Ben Torah for LifeJoin Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Is it possible to build a profitable company that is focused on doing good in the world?Is it possible for a busy professional to live a healthy lifestyle?Is it possible for a startup co-founder to also serve as an assistant rabbi of a shul?For Sam Fromson, the answer isn’t just yes—it’s his reality.As the co-founder and COO of YULife and community rabbi of Golders Green Synagogue, Sam has shattered common misconceptions about work, health, and Torah leadership. In this episode, we dive into his journey and explore what it means to integrate success, meaning, and personal well-being.Sam shares how startup life taught him lessons in emuna, how his venture-backed company is revolutionizing insurance with a focus on well-being, and how his role as a rabbi deepens his impact both in business and in the community.We also cover: The surprising parallels between emuna and entrepreneurship Building a healthy lifestyle as a busy professional Mindfulness, reframing stress, and the power of “I get to” Creating meaningful work in a for-profit world🔥 Plus, don’t miss the lightning round where Sam reveals his favorite sefer, his ideal Friday night, and his dream career if he ever left the startup world.🎧 Tune in now for an inspiring conversation packed with wisdom, strategy, and the practical realities of balancing Torah, career, and family life.Join Our Whatsapp Group!If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What happens when your dream job isn’t the right fit? This week, we sit down with Bini Maryles, who went from being a shul rabbi in the Five Towns to a leader in Jewish communal organizations and nonprofit fundraising. Bini shares the hard truths about realizing a career isn’t working, making a pivot without losing your core values, and how he found his true calling in coaching and leadership development.Partial list of topics:🔹 The struggles of transitioning out of the rabbinate🔹 The identity shift that comes with leaving a public-facing role🔹 Lessons from working in Jewish organizational leadership🔹 How coaching and business skills can empower impact-driven work🔹 The balance between Torah, career, and personal fulfillmentYou can get in touch with Bini and listen to his podcasts here:LinkedinCoaching the BibleThe Raimy and Bini PodcastJoin Our Whatsapp Group!If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Additional Content is also available at⁠⁠⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠⁠⁠

There’s a struggle that almost every Ben Torah faces—but few talk about openly. Today, we’re breaking that silence. Rabbi David Lapin joins Shtark Tank to explore the delicate balance of Shemiras HaEinayim in today’s hyper-visual world. From the Torah’s foundational perspective on attraction and discipline to practical strategies for strengthening ourselves from within, this episode tackles the real challenges head-on. We discuss:✅ Why Shemiras HaEinayim is about more than just avoiding temptation✅ The hidden dangers of guilt and how it can actually hold you back✅ How to reinforce yourself from within, rather than just escaping challenges✅ The role of marriage in maintaining a strong inner world✅ Practical tools to stay strong in a world of endless distractions Plus, Rabbi Lapin shares his thoughts on how Torah itself serves as the ultimate anchor—and why true self-discipline is built through joy, creativity, and deep learning. You can listen to our first conversation with Rav Lapin here Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Additional Content is also available at ⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠ Additional Resources from Rav Lapin The Ultimate Sacrifice Power In Marriage Playfulness In Marriage Time Stamps 🕒 (00:00) – Intro: The struggle no one talks about🕒 (02:15) – Torah’s perspective on male-female dynamics and attraction🕒 (06:10) – The modern world: Facing the sexual revolution and digital temptations🕒 (10:30) – Guilt as a cop-out vs. guilt as motivation🕒 (14:00) – Strengthening from within: Why learning with depth is the best protection🕒 (17:45) – The importance of playfulness in Torah, marriage, and Avodas Hashem🕒 (21:40) – Practical steps: What you can start doing today

In this conversation, Rav Daniel Hershkowitz shares his unique journey as a Rabbi who also held leaderships positions in govenment, academia, and politics. We discuss the balance and integration between his various roles. The conversation touches on: How his grandmother inspired him to pursue smicha, adding rabbinic ordination to his academic and professional achievements. His philosophy on balancing Torah and science, including a fascinating lesson on how rocket stability mirrors life’s challenges. The behind-the-scenes pressures of managing Israel’s vast civil service network, with over half a million employees under his watch. His unique approach to Jewish unity, comparing societal harmony to the orchestration of diverse instruments in a symphony. The unforgettable wedding story where a missing ring turned into a lesson in compassion and problem-solving. Contact Us To submit guest suggestions, questions or other ideas for Shovavim episodes, email me at ⁠[email protected]⁠ Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Additional Content is also available at ⁠shtarktank.org⁠ Guest Bio: Rav Daniel Hershkowitz has built a career that bridges the worlds of Torah and public service. With a PhD in mathematics from the Technion, he has held significant academic roles, including serving as President of Bar-Ilan University. He has also contributed to Israel’s public sector as Minister of Science and Technology and as Commissioner for the Civil Service, where he oversaw the work of hundreds of thousands of government employees. Alongside his professional achievements, Rav Hershkowitz has been the Rav of Haifa’s Ahuza neighborhood for many years, a role he carries out as a volunteer. His approach to life combines Torah values with practical leadership, and his experiences offer a unique perspective on integrating faith, learning, and service. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Integrating Scientific Excellence and Torah 09:13 Unique Experiences in the Rabbinate 13:51 The Importance of Balance in Life 20:42 The Role of College Education in a Changing World 24:35 Transitioning from Academia to Politics 28:27 The Complexities of Civil Service 35:44 Jewish Unity and Societal Harmony 38:55 Lightning Round

In this episode of Shtark Tank, host Yaakov Wolff interviews Allen Pfeiffer, a managing director at Kroll and part-time professor at Sy Syms School of Business. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of balancing a professional career with Torah values, the importance of authenticity in the workplace, and the dilemmas faced by professionals in maintaining their Jewish identity. Alan shares personal stories and insights on navigating these challenges, offering advice for young professionals on finding a career that aligns with their values and passions. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship and maintaining a commitment to learning throughout life, as well as the personal journey of Aliyah. To submit guest suggestions, questions or other ideas for Shovavim episodes, email me at [email protected] Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Additional Content is also available at shtarktank.org

In this episode we sit down with Steve Glanz, whose journey from the fast-paced world of tech to the thoughtful halls of the Beis Medrash is nothing short of a roller coaster. Steve shares his unique story of taking risks in the Israeli tech scene, founding a startup, and achieving a successful buyout that many entrepreneurs only dream of. But his path wasn't all smooth sailing—Steve opens up about the struggles that followed, including a failed venture, burnout, and ultimately, a shift to a more fulfilling chapter as a Rebbe in Yeshivat Mevasseret. Through his candid reflections, Steve provides invaluable guidance for young men preparing to navigate life after yeshiva. He emphasizes the importance of community, setting clear boundaries at work, and maintaining a strong foundation of learning. His practical advice is grounded in his own experiences of balancing career aspirations with a commitment to Torah values. Whether you're striving for success in the workplace or seeking inspiration to stay connected to your roots, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Bio Rav Steve Glanz is a Rebbe at Yeshivat Mevaseret. He previously held a number of senior positions in the Israeli tech scene, including founder and CEO of Crosswise, SVP at Vringo, and more. He can be reached at [email protected] Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠ Chapters 00:00 From Executive to Entrepreneur: The Leap 06:28 Navigating Post-Exit Life: What Comes Next? 15:43 Transitioning to Teaching: A New Path 22:42 Preparing for Life Beyond Yeshiva: Key Insights

Jeremy Lustman created and leads DLA Piper's Israel Group, which includes over 300 lawyers throughout the firm.  But we barely touched on his legal career, since there is so much to talk about relating to Jeremy's Chessed, Aliyah and Rabbeim. Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself.. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠ Summary In this episode, Yaakov Wolff interviews Jeremy Lustman, who shares his journey of engaging in Chesed and volunteer work, particularly in Africa. The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of pain and resilience, the importance of faith in humanity, and the impact of small acts of kindness. Jeremy discusses his involvement in various nonprofits and the significance of community engagement, especially for Olim in Israel. He emphasizes the need to maintain relationships with Rabbeim and the value of being proactive in creating connections. The episode highlights the idea that everyone can contribute to Chesed in meaningful ways, regardless of their circumstances. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:27 Operation Ethiopia: A Mission of Healing 06:49 Personal Reflections on Trauma and Empathy 09:07 Philosophy of Giving and Community Engagement 11:18 Finding Joy in Small Moments 17:15 Grassroots Initiatives and Community Impact 20:01 The Power of Influence in Charity Work 27:41 Finding Time for Chesed in Busy Lives 32:14 Impact Aliyah: A Journey of Giving Back 39:53 Maintaining Relationships with Rabbeim

In this special episode we sat down with Rav Shlomo Rayman. On Chanukah we talk about the military victory of the Chashmonaim, and I wanted to get Shlomo's take on some of these issues, since he has spent many months fighting in Gaza. We spoke about Torah learning under difficult circumstances, witnessing miracles, and more. To check out Shlomo's chidushei Torah from Gaza, click here. Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself, as we did in this episode. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠

In this episode, Gil Student discusses his new book, 'Articles of Faith,' exploring the intersection of traditional Jewish beliefs and modern challenges, particularly in the context of the internet. He shares his personal journey to faith, the importance of emunah and hashkafah, and the struggle between independence and authority in contemporary society. The conversation also delves into the impact of the internet on Jewish life, the necessity of critical thinking, and practical advice for navigating career challenges as a Ben Torah. Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself, as we did in this episode. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠

A few weeks ago, we quietly passed the 50-episode milestone of Shtark Tank, but today, we're finally taking a moment to celebrate this achievement with a special episode. In this reflective episode, I step out of my comfort zone as the host and into the guest seat to share the story of this rapidly growing podcast and a bit about my own journey. Hosting today’s conversation is Rav Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi of Boca Raton Synagogue and host of the Behind the Bima podcast. Join us for a look back at the journey so far and the lessons learned along the way. Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠

If you are want to help others to the right career, now is the time to book a discovery call for ⁠Rockport Career Coach Training⁠. Registration closes soon, PLUS Shtark Tank listeners will get a $500 discount with the code Shtark500. For more info ⁠click here⁠. ⁠In this conversation, Rabbi Avigdor Goldberger discusses his journey from being a Kollel director in Minnesota to becoming a certified career coach. He emphasizes the importance of understanding individual strengths and the role of personality assessments in guiding career choices. Rabbi Goldberger also highlights the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from Kollel to the workforce and the need for empathy and understanding in career coaching. Additionally, he shares insights from his podcast, 'Two Jews, One Opinion,' aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding across different Jewish communities. Some of the topics we touched on: Finding Fulfillment in Work Transitioning from Kollel to Career Understanding Career Tests and Their Limitatio The Importance of Individual Identity in Parenting Creating Unity Through Empathetic Conversations Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠