JM in the AM: Interviews

Nachum welcomed Liora Tedgi to the program on behalf of Ohr Meir & Bracha to discuss the increased need for their vital services as we prepare for Pesach in Israel.From the Ohr Meir & Bracha website:In 2001, Liora Tedgi, a mother of ten, transformed her personal tragedy into a beacon of hope.Liora was caught in a suicide bombing attack in Jerusalem, where a terrorist detonated a car bomb near her. At that very moment, she was pregnant with twins. Due to the explosion and severe trauma, she tragically lost one of her unborn children and was left with only one.From that moment, Liora’s life changed forever. Throughout her journey of recovery and coping with unimaginable hardship, she was blessed to meet two guiding lights in her life. Rabbi Meir Brandsdorfer and his wife Rebbetzin Bracha Brandsdorfer.This is how the name “Ohr Meir & Bracha” was born a mission-driven organization dedicated to one clear goal: supporting and saving the lives of terror victims.

Nachum checked in with listener Daniel (Wenger) about the YU MACS vs. Emory University in the NCAA Division III Tournament this Friday in Atlanta. They disucssed the community mobilizing to support the Yeshiva team, the schedule of events for the weekend, and the excitement surrounding the game. Notable stories included the influx of fans from Atlanta and neighboring areas, as well as the unique experience of hosting a Shabbaton for the Maccabees.

Nachum hosted author Martin Bodek to discuss his book "Haggadahpalooza: The Unofficial Weirdly Perfect Passover Pop Parody Panoply."Martin Bodek, author of multiple Haggadah parodies, discusses his unique approach to creating Pesach-themed books filled with song parodies, dad jokes, Star Wars references, and even an emoji Haggadah. With a collection of seven distinct Haggadahs, Bodek aims to make Pesach more engaging and entertaining for all ages. He shares insights on the creative process, challenges faced, and the positive impact his books have had on Seder experiences.

Nachum hosted Rabbi Nachman Seltzer to explore his latest ArtScroll release, "Zera Shimshon Yomi: The Sefer. The Stories. The Segulah.- Vayikra, Bamidbar, Devarim - A fascinating selection from Sefer Zera Shimshon for every day of the year." Always remember to use promo code RADIO when shopping at Artscroll.comFrom Artscroll.com:DescriptionThe Segulah. The Torah. One Day at a Time.The Zera Shimshon phenomenon continues with this extraordinary new volume.In his introduction to Sefer Zera Shimshon, the great 18th-century Italian sage Rabbi Shimshon Chaim Nachmani makes this extraordinary promise to those who learn his Torah.“…and you will see children, and children’s children, like olive shoots around your tables, wise and discerning, and homes filled with everything good, and wealth and honor…”For decades, Jews across the world have turned to the segulah of the Zera Shimshon—seeking shidduchim, yearning for children, or facing financial hardship—and have seen their deepest tefillos answered.Zera Shimshon Yomi presents these timeless teachings in short, daily selections on the weekly parashah, making the author’s profound Torah insights accessible, practical, and easy to internalize. Each day offers a clear, compelling insight—one meaningful idea to carry with you throughout the day.The Shabbos selection is followed by a true story, told in Rabbi Nachman Seltzer’s inimitable style, along with real-life accounts that vividly demonstrate the power of the segulah.Come for the segulah.Stay for the Torah.Let Zera Shimshon Yomi shape your days—and your future.

Nachum Segal kicked off the 2026 JM in the AM Yankie Meyer Nisan Chesed Campaign on today's JM in the AM. This biannual campaign, in memory of Misaskim creator and king of chesed Reb Yankie Meyer, Yaakov Michoel ben ha"Chaveir Yisroel, takes place in Elul and Nisan and aims to encourage and foster an increase in chesed/loving kindness leading up to the High Holidays and Pesach.Below are links to various initiatives and causes that Nachum has featured on JM in the AM. We encourage you to visit the sites and help support their important work. We also encourage everyone to come up with their own ideas of increasing chesed as we prepare for Pesach.Click Here to visit Misaskim.Click Here to visit Ohr Meir & Bracha and help Liora Tedgi's efforts for our brothers and sisters in Israel.Click Here to to visit Chazaq. 

Nachum Segal interviewed Rabbi Yaniv Meirov, Founder of Chazaq, about the organization and their current Charidy fundraiser.Chazaq:  Born in Queens…….Inspiring the Globe. From Public School Children discovering their Jewish identity,to Teens enjoying a safe and educational environment,to Families transferring their children from Public School to Yeshiva,to Adults inspired via community wide lectures,to Singles find their other half, Chazaq truly touches the lives of men and women of all ages from A to Z. Since starting the No Child Left Behind campaign several years ago,Chazaq has stood at the forefront of outreach with Public School students.

Nachum Segal kicked off the 2026 JM in the AM Yankie Meyer Nisan Chesed Campaign with Chairman Steve Adelsberg on this morning's JM in the AM. This annual campaign aims to encourage and foster an increase in chesed/loving kindness leading up to the holiday of Pesach.

Nachum welcomed Joey Hecht, President of Israel1stop, to the studio during this morning's JM in the AM to discuss the current real estate landscape in Israel, emphasizing the opportunities and benefits of purchasing property in the country. Joey highlighted the potential for property appreciation, the importance of owning in Israel, and the variety of services his company offers to assist buyers remotely.

Nachum interviewed Rabbi Reuven Lowy about his new Mosaica Press release for Pesach, "The Rhyme & Reason Haggadah."From Mosaica Press:A Fresh Twist on the Pesach HaggadahFor generations, the Haggadah shel Pesach has been studied, expounded upon, and translated into numerous languages. Today, English-speaking audiences have access to countless commentaries, yet The Rhyme and Reason Haggadah presents a unique and engaging approach, offering a poetic translation and rhyming explanation that makes the mitzvah of Sippur Yetzias Mitzrayim more accessible than ever.This Haggadah transforms the story of Yetzias Mitzrayim into an interactive and memorable experience, engaging readers with lyrical prose that brings the Seder night to life. The rhythmic flow draws in both young and old, ensuring that the retelling of our nation’s geulah remains an inspiring and enjoyable mitzvah for all.

Nachum welcomed Rabbi Asher Lowenstein, attorney and Founder of Lowenstein Legal, to this morning's JM in the AM to discuss the topic of halachic wills, especially as it intersects with the American legal system and halachot of inheritance.

Malcolm Holmline, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, provides a detailed update on recent events in the Middle East, focusing on the ongoing conflict with Iran and its impact on Israel. Key insights include the precision of military attacks, challenges of succession in Iran, and the importance of global alliances. The discussion also delves into the normalization of hate speech and the need for proactive measures against propaganda.

Nachum interviewed David Cutler, Executive Director of EFG @ Aish, about the program and the "ALL IN for Aish" matching campaign going on now.From the campaign page:ALL IN for Aish For 50 years, Aish has helped Jews of every background discover meaning, connection, and inspiration through Torah.Today, the Jewish world needs strength more than ever. That’s why we’re going ALL IN for Aish. Now is the moment. Every gift will be tripled, accelerating us toward our $6 million goal to inspire, uplift, and strengthen Jewish lives worldwide. Join us as we go ALL IN for the Jewish People. Be a part of our mission.Donate Today.

Nachum hosted Peter Kurz , former president of the Israel Baseball Association, to discuss Israel in the World Baseball Classic and his new book about Israel baseball called "Where Traditions Meet – the Personal Inside Story of the Israel Baseball Quest for Olympic Gold." They discussed the history and development of baseball in Israel including the formation of the league in 2007, participation in World Baseball Classic, and the quest for Olympic qualification.

Nachum welcomed Elliot Tanzman, Director of NCSY Summer Programs, to the studio during this morning's JM in the AM to discuss NCSY Summer and to announce the winners of this year's NCSY Summer Raffle. They talked about the growth of NCSY operations, the impact of the war in Israel and program adjustments for the upcoming summer. Notable stories included the winners of the raffle and the anticipation of a successful summer program.

With thousands of IDF reserves called up to defend Israel and the Jewish people, Nachum welcomed Chaim Rutenberg, founder of Beef Up Our Boys, back to JM in the AM this morning to discuss how his incredible team can use our help as they work tirelessly to get beef jerky to our soldiers on the front lines

Nachum welcomed Coach Bruce Pearl and Daniel Posner of Athletes for Israel to the studio during this morning's JM in the AM to discuss their work bringing sports celebrities and teams to Israel. They shared insights on promoting unity, bonding, and connecting through sports in Israel. Notable stories included bringing Coach Pearl's team to Israel, his impactful speeches, and engaging with Jewish and Christian communities.

Malcolm Holinein, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, provides insights on the imminent attack on Iran, US-Israel relations, and the significance of Modi's visit to Israel. Main topics covered include potential military actions, international relationships, and implications for the Middle East.

Ralph Rosenbaum, Chairman of the fundraising campaign, joins the podcast to announce the results and express gratitude for the 503 donors who contributed. The main topics discussed include surpassing the 85% goal, comparing the current campaign to previous ones, and setting a new target of $186,000. Key insights include the success in exceeding past fundraising goals and the importance of listener support for the network's operations.

Nachum was joined by Joey Hecht, President of Israel1stop, in the studio during this morning's JM in the AM to discuss getting involved in the Israel real estate scene and supporting NSN in the final days of our annual campaign. Nachum and Joey emphasized the importance of buying property in Israel for the future of the Jewish people and their discussion included partnerships to afford investments, specific projects in Jerusalem, and the ease of transitioning with Joey's services.

Nachum welcomed Rabbi David Sutton back to JM in the AM to discuss his new ArtScroll release "The Bitachon Haggadah – With a Daily Dose of Preparation: Finding Peace and Serenity in the Story of Yetzias Mitzrayim." Always remember to use promo code RADIO when shopping at ArtScroll.com.From ArtScroll:An inspirational and absorbing Haggadah, with emunah and bitachon at its center. This remarkable work is a literal two-in-one: a 30-day daily reader and a full Haggadah with commentary, preparing you to experience the true freedom of Pesach in a way you never have before.Chazal teach that the experience of Pesach begins thirty days before the festival. The first section of this unique sefer embraces that vision, guiding you through a meaningful, day-by-day journey that begins a full month before the holiday. Each day explores a central theme—emunah, bitachon, freedom, purpose, and growth—helping you arrive at the Seder not rushed or overwhelmed, but truly ready.In his commentary to the Haggadah, Rabbi David Sutton draws on Chazal, Rishonim, and later Torah giants to reveal how Yetzias Mitzrayim is not a distant story, but a living reality to be experienced anew each year. Interwoven with vivid, heart-stirring stories, these insights bring warmth, clarity, and depth to the Seder table, and will strengthen your faith all year long. The Haggadah includes the full Hebrew text and translation.Pesach is not meant to arrive all at once; it is meant to be prepared for, anticipated, and slowly lived into—until the night of the Seder feels personal and alive. With this daily reader and Haggadah, you will journey with Klal Yisrael from bondage to freedom, experiencing Pesach as it was truly meant to be.