Millennial Rabbis Podcast

Episode #10 : I Need You Here

Summary In this episode of the Millennial Rabbis podcast, host Shmuel Neft speaks with Yitzchak Achter, a Gen Z rabbi, about his unique experiences growing up in Ukraine, his journey to Israel, and his current role in education and outreach. They explore the transformative impact of Yeka camp, the importance of authenticity in Jewish outreach, and the challenges of navigating the political landscape as a Jewish community. Yitzchak also shares insights into his work translating the Rebbe's teachings into Russian and reflects on his experience attending the inauguration in Washington, D.C. 🎧 Listen to Yitzchak’s podcast Натуральный Хасид: Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0v9ZkyS7ALi75WhaPok6Lo?si=v5SibC6ySr2syaIJljYfqg]| Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%83%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B9-%D1%85%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%B8%D0%B4/id1786507949] Takeaways * Yitzchak Achter is a Gen Z rabbi with a unique perspective. * Jewish life in Ukraine has seen a revival despite past desolation. * Education is crucial for shaping the next generation of Jewish leaders. * Authenticity in teaching is essential for effective education. * Yeka camp experiences are transformative for both educators and students. * Understanding cultural nuances is important in education. * GEM plays a vital role in translating the Rebbe's teachings into Russian. * Political events can significantly impact Jewish communities worldwide. * Maintaining genuine connections is key in outreach efforts. * The future of Jewish education relies on passionate educators. Chapters: * 03:27 – Meet Yitzchak Achter: A Gen Z Rabbi * 06:16 – Jewish Life in the Former Soviet Union * 09:28 – Yitzchak's Journey from Ukraine to Israel * 12:27 – The Impact of Yeka Camp Experience * 15:28 – Transformative Experiences in Ukraine * 18:30 – Fundraising and Outreach in Chabad * 21:23 – Navigating Challenges During the War * 24:26 – Helping Refugees in Poland * 27:33 – Purim in Poland: A Unique Experience * 35:03 – Summer Camps and Education Experiences * 37:21 – The Importance of Teaching and Education * 39:57 – Challenges and Responsibilities in Jewish Education * 43:06 – The Role of Educators in Shaping Values * 45:38 – Cultural Influences on Education * 50:04 – Translating the Rebbe's Teachings * 59:11 – Experiences at the Inauguration * 01:02:11 – Reflections on Political Idolatry

Episode #9: Sanctify the Sea

SUMMARY In this episode of the Millennial Rabbis Podcast, Rabbi Yehoshua Rubin shares his unique experiences as a Jewish Navy chaplain and Chabad emissary, discussing his journey from a non-religious upbringing to becoming a rabbi serving in the military. He recounts his deployment to the Middle East, the challenges of maintaining Jewish traditions on an aircraft carrier, and the importance of outreach to fellow Jewish sailors. Rabbi Rubin's stories highlight the intersection of faith and service, showcasing the impact of his work in a challenging environment. TAKEAWAYS * Making a podcast requires commitment and time. * Rabbi Yeshua Rubin serves as a Navy chaplain without a fixed congregation. * His viral video of a makeshift Sukkah on an aircraft carrier gained attention. * Deployment to the Middle East involved significant challenges and responsibilities. * Rabbi Rubin emphasizes the importance of Jewish outreach in the Navy. * He shares personal stories of connecting with Jewish sailors during his service. * Maintaining Jewish traditions on a ship is a unique challenge. * Rabbi Rubin's journey reflects a deep commitment to his faith and service. * The role of a chaplain includes providing pastoral care and support. * Returning home after deployment is a surreal and emotional experience.

Episode #8: Meant To Be?!?!

Summary In this episode of the Millennial Rabbis podcast, Dovie and Shmuel discuss the concept of Hashgacha Pratit, divine intervention. They share personal stories and examples of how they have experienced divine orchestration in their lives. They emphasize the importance of being aware of and looking for these moments of divine intervention, even in challenging situations. The hosts encourage listeners to keep a diary of these occurrences to deepen their awareness and appreciation of divine intervention. Takeaways G-d is in control of everything and orchestrates every detail of our lives Divine intervention can be seen in both positive and negative experiences Being aware of and looking for moments of divine intervention can bring a sense of purpose and connection to G-d Keeping a diary of these occurrences can deepen our awareness and appreciation of divine intervention Sound Bites "G-d runs the world. Hashem's in control of everything." "Every single detail, every single part of every occurrence that happens in the world." "There is a reason for every situation." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:00 Divine Orchestration in Everyday Life 11:49 The Power of Awareness 26:02 The Reason for Every Situation 33:46 The Presence of G-d 38:49 Conclusion and Closing Remarks If you would like to sponsor an episode or partner with MRP to advertise your business, reach out at shmuel.neft@jrcc.org

Episode #7: Sunshine Shlichut

Summary Millennial Rabbis Podcast features a new type of episode! Episode #7 features a special guest, Rabbi Moshe Dubinsky, from Central Florida. Shmuel and Moshe discuss the shift in format for the Millennial Rabbi's Podcast, where they will now feature different millennial rabbis as special guests. They also talk about their goal of providing insight into Jewish life in different communities and the importance of showcasing the diversity of Jewish experiences. Moshe shares his journey of becoming a Chabad Rabbi in Claremont, Florida, and the challenges of building a Jewish community in a non-traditional area. They also discuss the joy and fulfillment of being a Chabad Rabbi and the impact they can have on the lives of Jewish people. The conversation between Moshe and Shmuel covers various topics related to their experiences as Chabad rabbis and the challenges they face in their respective communities. They discuss the importance of valuing and connecting with each individual in the community, rather than focusing solely on large events and crowds. They also talk about the struggles of maintaining a cohesive community while also reaching out to new individuals. Moshe shares his experience of starting a Chabad house in Orlando and the challenges of commuting and providing Jewish education for his children. They discuss the power of Torah in uniting the Jewish people and the need to educate others about Judaism. They also touch on the rise of anti-Semitism and the importance of standing strong and proud as Jews. Keywords Millennial Rabbi's Podcast, format shift, special guests, Jewish life, community, diversity, Chabad Rabbi, Claremont, Florida, challenges, joy, fulfillment, impact, Chabad, rabbis, community, individual, events, crowds, Jewish organizations, Torah, education, anti-Semitism Takeaways The Millennial Rabbi's Podcast is shifting its format to feature different millennial rabbis as special guests. The goal of the podcast is to provide insight into Jewish life in different communities and showcase the diversity of Jewish experiences. Rabbi Moishy shares his journey of becoming a Chabad Rabbi in Claremont, Florida, and the challenges of building a Jewish community in a non-traditional area. Being a Chabad Rabbi brings joy and fulfillment, as well as the opportunity to have a positive impact on the lives of Jewish people. Valuing and connecting with each individual in the community is crucial Maintaining a cohesive community while reaching out to new individuals is a challenge Torah plays a central role in uniting the Jewish people Educating others about Judaism is important in combating anti-Semitism Standing strong and proud as Jews is essential in the face of hatred Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Format Shift 01:30 Exploring Jewish Life in Different Communities 09:59 The Joy and Fulfillment of Being a Chabad Rabbi 15:17 The Impact of emissaries in Kazakhstan 22:45 The Influence of Disney in the Community 25:03 Discovering Other Jews in the Area 27:00 The Value of Every Jewish Child 30:49 Valuing Each Individual in the Community 36:05 Balancing Cohesion and Outreach 49:28 The Unifying Force of Torah 57:06 Educating Others about Judaism 01:01:01 Standing Strong and Proud as Jews If you would like to sponsor an episode or partner with MRP to advertise your business, reach out at shmuel.neft@jrcc.org

Episode #6: “Love Your Fellow”

Looking to advertise your business? Maybe you want to sponsor something SUPER AWESOME for a special occasion? 👉🏼 Sponsorship opportunities for MRP are available! Send an email to shmuel.neft@jrcc.org to find out more! Summary The episode discusses the significance of Lag BaOmer in Judaism, the experience of attending the Lag BaOmer parade, the theme of Ahavat Yisrael (love for fellow Jews), and the life of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a great Kabbalist. The conversation delves into the historical context of Lag BaOmer, the impact of the parade, and the deeper meaning of Ahavat Yisrael. It also touches on the teachings of Rabbi Akiva and the relevance of Ahavat Yisrael in today's world. Keywords Lag BaOmer, Judaism, Ahavat Yisrael, Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, Kabbalah, Rabbi Akiva, Jewish pride, parade, Jewish identity, love for fellow Jews Takeaways • Lag BaOmer is a significant festival in Judaism, celebrated with parades and events that promote Jewish pride and identity. • The theme of Ahavat Yisrael (love for fellow Jews) is a core principle in Judaism, emphasizing the importance of unity and respect within the Jewish community. • The life and teachings of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a prominent Kabbalist, are celebrated during Lag BaOmer, highlighting the spiritual significance of the festival. • The historical context of Lag BaOmer and the impact of the parade on Jewish communities provide insights into the cultural and religious significance of the festival. • The conversation explores the relevance of Ahavat Yisrael in today's world, emphasizing the moral responsibility to love and respect every Jew, regardless of differences. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Significance of Lag BaOmer 20:48 The Essence of Ahavat Yisrael in Judaism 29:13 Celebrating the Life of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai