613 Seconds

Episode 8: From Struggle to Strength: The Chazkeinu Story

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Zahava List, founder of Chazkeinu, a global support network serving Jewish women facing mental health challenges. Zahava shares her personal journey—from navigating postpartum psychosis and bipolar disorder to building a worldwide community of connection, hope, and support. Listeners will gain insight into the power of peer support, the importance of honest conversation around mental health, and how Chazkeinu continues to transform lives through compassion, leadership, and real emotional understanding. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that no one needs to struggle alone.

Episode 7: Building Miriam’s Legacy - Mendel Mintz on Love, Loss & Creating a Community Center

Join us for a moving conversation with Mendel Mintz, husband of the late Miriam Fink, as he shares his journey from Crown Heights to Baltimore, his inspiring partnership with Miriam, and how her passion for education and kindness inspired the creation of Miriam’s Library. Discover how Mendel and Miriam’s shared outlook, resilience, and vision are shaping a new community resource in Baltimore, impacting countless children, educators, and families. This episode of the 613 Seconds Podcast is a tribute to enduring love, community building, and turning heartbreak into hope.

Episode 6: Strings of Resilience: Navigating Classical Music and Jewish Life with Yonatan Grinberg

In this episode of the 613 Seconds Podcast, we sit down with violinist Yonatan Grinberg to explore his unconventional path from soccer-loving kid to accomplished classical musician. Raised in an observant Jewish home, Yonatan shares the challenges of navigating a music career while staying true to his values, and how creativity and grit helped him forge a unique path—including founding Chamber Encounters and curating programs like “Jews in Music” in response to rising antisemitism. From making classical music more accessible to staying grounded in Baltimore’s vibrant Jewish community, Yonatan’s story hits all the right notes.

Episode 5: STAR-K - The Pulse of Pesach- A Conversation with Rabbi Zvi Holland

In this episode of 613 Seconds, we sit down with Rabbi Zvi Holland, Kashrus Administrator at Star-K, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s leading kosher certification agencies. Rabbi Holland shares his journey from Scranton and eventually to Baltimore, and how his role at Star-K spans global shechita, wine certification, and support for Israeli companies. He offers a deep dive into the massive year-round effort behind Pesach preparation -- rom kashering guides to medication lists -and highlights the importance of clear halachic guidance in today's complex world. Plus, hear how Star-K is innovating with digital tools, handling thousands of questions during peak season, and staying true to its mission of consumer support and Torah values.

Episode 4: Chesed with Dignity: Inside Ahavas Yisrael with Rabbi Brull

Originally from Boro Park, Rabbi Boruch Brull came to Baltimore in 1978 to teach at TA, where his journey in community service began. Noticing a critical need, he helped found Ahavas Yisrael with Rabbi Elozor Isbee z”l to provide discreet, meaningful support to struggling families. What started with food boxes and small checks has grown into a full-service chesed organization, offering help with food, rent, utilities, job placement, budgeting, and navigating government programs. At the heart of Ahavas Yisrael is dignity: “We ask, How can we better help you?—never making anyone feel uncomfortable.” Rabbi Brull reflects on Baltimore’s unique sense of achdus and chesed, where rabbis, organizations, and even politicians work hand in hand. He shares moving stories, like giving from his own Pesach table to ensure another family could have a proper Seder. Inspired by his parents and mentors like Rabbi Hopfer shlit”a, Rabbi Brull’s life has been a testament to empathy in action. Whether it’s providing over 500 Pesach support checks or walking families through crisis, Ahavas Yisrael ensures that no one in our community is left behind. His message? We're here to help. No one should ever feel alone.