Behind the Bima

In this deeply moving episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Mark Halawa, who grew up Arab and Muslim in Kuwait, immersed in a culture where Jews were demonized, and ultimately chose a radically different path.Mark shares the quiet, human moments that began unraveling everything he thought he knew: curiosity, kindness, questions, and a single act of generosity that planted a seed. What followed was not a political statement, but a spiritual journey... one rooted in learning, truth-seeking, and courage.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.This conversation explores:Growing up Muslim in Kuwait and being taught to hate JewsThe unexpected encounters that challenged those beliefsThe rabbi, the apple, and the moment that changed everythingChoosing Judaism through learning, not rebellionWhat it costs... and gives... to rebuild an identity from the ground upThis is a powerful episode about transformation, faith, and what can happen when someone is truly seen.

This bonus episode of Behind the Bima addresses a question many people asked — and some criticized:Why invite an Arab Muslim to speak at a synagogue?Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Loay Alshareef, an Arab Muslim educator who speaks openly about antisemitism within the Arab and Muslim world, the narratives he was raised with, and the personal consequences of challenging them publicly.Rather than aiming for comfort or consensus, this conversation focuses on truth, moral responsibility, and the cost of silence. Loay discusses what it means to speak honestly within his own community, why clarity matters more than approval, and how real dialogue differs from performative gestures.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.This Episode Discusses:Growing up in the Arab world and the narratives taught about JewsAntisemitism within Arab and Muslim societiesThe personal cost of publicly challenging one’s own communityTruth-telling versus performative interfaith dialogueWhen avoiding discomfort becomes a moral failureThe difference between honesty and coexistence slogansSpeaking with clarity even when it risks backlashWhy some conversations must happen publicly, not privatelyThis is not a conversation about interfaith optics. It’s about values, courage, and the responsibility to say difficult things out loud.

What does paying attention over time teach you about people?In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter for a thoughtful conversation about dating, raising children, and the relationships that shape our lives.Drawing from decades of lived experience, Rebbetzin Schachter reflects on how emotional awareness and restraint influence the way we approach dating and parenting. She speaks about the importance of watching people carefully, allowing relationships to unfold over time, and understanding that judgment is often formed not through answers, but through attention.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.This Episode Discusses:Dating and emotional awarenessPaying attention as relationships developRestraint in parenting and family dynamicsLearning when to respond and when to hold backWatching people carefully over timeHow judgment is shaped through experienceWhy wisdom often comes from observation, not adviceThis is not an episode about solutions or prescriptions. It’s about learning to notice, and what that noticing teaches you about people, family, and yourself.

What does it mean to be trusted with other people’s growth?In this episode of Behind the Bima, we sit down with Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum, a renowned educator and mentor, to explore the quiet but weighty decisions that parents and teachers face every day.Rather than offering formulas or slogans, Rabbi Kestenbaum speaks honestly about discernment—knowing when to guide, when to step back, and how to bring out the best in children and students without crushing their individuality. Drawing from decades in education, he reflects on responsibility, restraint, and the long-term impact of the choices educators make in moments that often go unnoticed.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.This Episode Discusses:Knowing when to speak—and when silence is more powerfulBringing out the best in students without overmanagingParenting and teaching as long-term responsibilityWhy trust is the heaviest burden educators carryLetting children grow without fear-driven controlModeling judgment, not just rulesThis is a conversation for anyone who teaches, parents, mentors, or leads, and feels the pressure of getting it right.

Alex Clare built a global music career, reaching hundreds of millions of listeners worldwide. But behind the spotlight, he was searching for something deeper.In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Alex Clare for a thoughtful conversation about fame, faith, and the cost of choosing a values-driven life. Alex reflects on his journey through music, his return to Torah, and the challenge of integrating creativity, responsibility, and authenticity after public success.This is not a story about leaving one world for another. It’s about redefining purpose, respecting the power of one’s gifts, and discovering depth when the applause fades.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.Topics discussed include:Life at the height of a global music careerThe questions success doesn’t answerTeshuvah and returning to TorahIntegrating creativity with faith and responsibilityRedefining purpose without abandoning talentStaying authentic after the spotlight fadesThis is not a story about leaving one world for another. It’s about redefining purpose, respecting the power of one’s gifts, and discovering depth when the applause fades.

In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Rabbi Daniel Glatstein to explore what it actually demands to teach seriously over time. Having taught nearly 13,000 classes across years of public responsibility, Rabbi Glatstein reflects on the discipline, preparation, and restraint required to sustain meaningful teaching without dilution.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.Rather than discussing techniques or shortcuts, they turn to deeper questions: how standards are maintained, why boundaries protect depth, and what happens when teaching is treated as a lifelong obligation rather than a moment of inspiration. The episode offers a rare look at the inner weight carried by those who take Torah — and leadership — seriously.Topics discussed include:What teaching at scale truly demandsDiscipline versus inspiration in sustaining impactWhy boundaries are essential, not limitingHumility, consistency, and long-term responsibilityPreserving seriousness in an age of speed and reachThis is a thoughtful and grounded conversation about Torah, leadership, and what it takes to build something that lasts.

In this episode of Behind the Bima, the Rabbis speak with Eli Beer, founder of United Hatzalah, about leadership under pressure and responsibility in moments when lives are at stake.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.As Israel continues to confront war, trauma, and exhaustion, this conversation examines what it means to lead an organization built for crisis, and what sustains those who never step off the front lines.The discussion explores emergency response during national trauma, the emotional toll on volunteers, the challenge of leading with integrity, and the role of faith and discipline in sustaining responsibility over time.This is a serious, grounded conversation about leadership when urgency is real and consequences are immediate.

In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg speaks with Michele Weiss, Mayor-Elect of University Heights, Ohio, about leadership, Jewish responsibility, and what it means to step forward at a moment when many feel pressure to step back.This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Charlestein & Darryl Benjamin in honor of their grandparents, Morton & Malvina Charlestein, and their children, Ruby and Maccabi Benjamin.Michele shares her personal journey into public service, the challenges of running for office as a visibly Jewish candidate, and the realities of leading a community during a time of rising antisemitism and civic tension. The conversation explores how Jewish values shape leadership, the responsibility of local government, and why courage at the municipal level matters more than most people realize.Together, they discuss:What motivated her to run — and what almost stopped herLeading with integrity in a polarized environmentThe role of Jewish identity in public serviceAntisemitism at the local level — and how leaders respondWhy local leadership often carries the greatest moral weightBuilding trust across communitiesWhat this moment demands from Jewish leadersThis is a grounded, human conversation about responsibility, courage, and leadership where it matters most... close to home.

In this compelling episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, for an unfiltered look behind the scenes of the United Nations—and the global fight against antisemitism, disinformation, and moral inversion.Hillel lives and works on the front lines of international diplomacy, confronting some of the world’s most powerful regimes inside the UN system itself. From exposing systemic bias against Israel to challenging human rights abusers who cloak themselves in moral authority, he shares what it really means to “delegitimize the delegitimizers.”The conversation explores:Why success at the UN often means exposure, not victoryHow dictatorships weaponize the UN’s moral legitimacyThe strategy behind exposing antisemitism on a global stageWhat changed dramatically after October 7Why lies travel faster than truth in international institutionsHow UN Watch achieved a historic first: U.S. sanctions against a UN officialWhat keeps him going in a system that feels stacked against truthThe personal journey that led him from Montreal to Geneva, and why he stayedThis is a rare behind-the-scenes conversation with one of the Jewish world’s most effective, articulate defenders, offering clarity, context, and moral courage at a moment when all three are desperately needed.

In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Congressman Randy Fine, one of the most outspoken defenders of the Jewish people and the State of Israel in American politics today.This episode is sponsored by Eli & Eva Genauer in observance of the Yahrzeit of his grandfather, Moshe Yehuda ben Binyomin HaLevi Genauer, on the 8th of Kislev.Congressman Fine shares the powerful story behind his decision to wear a kippah every day on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first member of Congress in history to do so. What began as a conversation with his teenage son became a defining public statement of Jewish pride at a time when many feel pressure to hide.The conversation explores:Standing visibly Jewish in an era of rising antisemitismThe personal cost—and responsibility—of moral clarityGrowing up Jewish in Kentucky and confronting hate early in lifeFlorida’s role as one of the safest states in America for JewsSchool choice, Jewish day school security, and public policyIsrael after October 7 and the changing political landscapeLeadership, courage, and the price of speaking plainlyThis is a candid, unscripted discussion about identity, responsibility, and what it means to lead as a Jew in historic times... exactly the kind of conversation Behind the Bima was created to host.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima.His face is blurred, and his name is redacted by the Israeli government, but his story of heroism and resilience must be told.In a powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with "Guy," an active-duty sergeant major in the IDF's legendary Unit 669—the elite airborne search and rescue commando force. Guy provides a rare look inside the grueling physical and psychological training designed to forge soldiers who can run toward danger and rescue anyone, from any situation, under overwhelming fire.He shares a gripping, firsthand account of October 7th, from the initial chaotic call-up to driving into a warzone, treating endless casualties amidst a stream of terrorists, liberating kibbutzim, and the surreal moments that followed. Guy also opens up about the invisible wounds of war, the dark humor soldiers use to survive, and how he and his fiancée, Noga—a commander in her own right—navigated their relationship through text messages, not knowing if the other was still alive.Learn how Guy's private journal, chronicling his service, unexpectedly became a best-selling book in Israel, giving a voice to an entire generation of soldiers.Find Guy's new book, "The Rescue: October 7th Through the Eyes of Israel's Top Rescue Commandos," on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

🇮🇱 From Shepherd to Seal to Nation-Builder | Major Yoel Zilberman | Behind the Bima📍 Recorded live in Boca Raton, FLIn this unforgettable episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Major Yoel Zilberman, an elite IDF commander and the founder & CEO of Hashomer HaChadash (Hasham)—Israel’s largest volunteer organization, mobilizing over 300,000 volunteers to defend Israel’s farms, strengthen the land, and raise the next generation of Zionist leaders.From his humble beginnings as a shepherd in the Galilee to serving in Israel’s Navy Seals, and now leading a national movement reshaping Israel’s borders, Major Zilberman shares powerful insights on: • What October 7th revealed about Israel’s vulnerabilities and resilience • The crisis of food security and land abandonment in Israel—and why food independence is a matter of national security • How his tent on a hill became a symbol of resistance, community, and rebirth • Why real leadership starts on the land, and not in politics • His call to action for Jews around the world to protect, work, and love the land of IsraelThis conversation is a blueprint for the Jewish future—brimming with clarity, courage, and a charge to build, plant, and lead.

Congressman Jared Moskowitz: Pro-Israel, Proudly Jewish, and Unapologetically Honest | Behind the Bima🎙️ In this powerful episode of Behind the Bima, we sit down with Congressman Jared Moskowitz, the outspoken U.S. Representative for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District, and a relentless voice for Israel and the Jewish people.🇮🇱 From his Holocaust family legacy to his fearless stand against antisemitism—even when it means challenging members of his own party—Congressman Moskowitz shares what drives his moral clarity and fierce advocacy. With honesty, humor, and urgency, he opens up about:• What it’s like being one of the most pro-Israel voices in Congress• The rise of antisemitism on college campuses and in American political discourse• The challenges—and importance—of bipartisanship in a polarized era• How his Jewish identity shapes his public life and service• Why both the political left and right must confront their own blind spots on Israel• His take on social media, public service, and keeping perspective under fire💥 Plus: The rabbis weigh in on Aliyah, ethics and connections, the blurry line between gifts and favors, and share personal reflections from Boca Raton Synagogue—one of the most pro-Israel shuls in the diaspora.🙏 A deeply moving and timely conversation you won’t want to miss.Show Notes:🎙️ Guest Profile: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL)Position: U.S. Representative for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District (since 2023)Party: DemocraticCommittees: House Judiciary Committee; House Foreign Affairs Committee (Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Oversight & Intelligence)Caucus Roles: Co-Chair, Congressional Sneaker Caucus; Co-Chair, Congressional Dog Lovers’ Caucus; Vice Chair, Gun Violence Prevention Task Force; Member, House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism ⸻🧭 Background & Early Career • Born: December 18, 1980, in Coral Springs, Florida • Education: B.A. in Political Science, George Washington University; J.D., Nova Southeastern University • Early Political Involvement: Interned for Vice President Al Gore; assistant on Joe Lieberman’s 2004 presidential campaign; delegate for Barack Obama at the 2008 Democratic National Convention • Local Government: Elected to the Parkland City Commission in 2006; re-elected in 2010; focused on environmental initiatives such as subsidies for energy-efficient appliances and hybrid vehicles   ⸻🏛️ Political CareerFlorida House of Representatives (2012–2019) • District: 97th, representing northern Broward County • Key Legislation: Co-authored the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act following the 2018 school shooting; the act raised the minimum age to purchase firearms to 21, implemented red flag laws, and increased funding for school security and mental health services  Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management (2019–2021) • Appointed by: Governor Ron DeSantis • Responsibilities: Managed responses to Hurricane Michael and the COVID-19 pandemic; oversaw distribution of PPE, vaccines, and testing supplies; criticized 3M for diverting N95 masks intended for Florida to foreign buyers  U.S. House of Representatives (2023–Present) • Election: Won the seat previously held by Ted Deutch in 2022; re-elected in 2024 • Legislative Focus: Gun violence prevention, defending democracy, supporting Israel, and protecting reproductive rights • Notable Actions: Known for his confrontational style and use of social media to challenge Republican colleagues; has been involved in high-profile exchanges during committee hearings   ⸻🎧 Recent Podcast AppearancesThe Bulwark Podcast: “Jared Moskowitz and Zeke Faux: Scams Galore” • Date: February 19, 2025 • Hosts: Tim Miller • Topics Discussed: Cryptocurrency scams, political accountability, and the role of social media in modern politics  The Lincoln Project Podcast: “Jared Moskowitz on Why He Yells (to Get Through to the Dumb-Dumbs)!” • Date: May 14, 2025 • Host: Rick Wilson • Topics Discussed: Strategies for effective communication in Congress, criticism of GOP policies, and insights into legislative processes ⸻📰 In the News • Political Style: Moskowitz has gained attention for his theatrical approach in Congress, including wearing a Vladimir Putin mask during a hearing to mock Republican colleagues • Bipartisan Relationships: Despite his confrontational tactics, he maintains relationships across the aisle, notably with Rep. Matt Gaetz, who has praised Moskowitz’s intelligence and effectiveness • Potential Future Candidacy: Speculation exists about Moskowitz running for higher office, including a potential gubernatorial bid in Florida  ⸻🔗 Additional Resources • Official Website: moskowitz.house.gov • Campaign Website: jaredforflorida.com • Wikipedia: Jared Moskowitz

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Philip Moskowitz and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Colonel John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point.In this compelling conversation, John Spencer provides profound insights into the complexities of urban warfare, sharing his expertise and experiences from the battlefield. The discussion delves into the themes of moral clarity in warfare, the challenges faced by Israel in its ongoing conflicts, and the broader implications for Western military strategies.Plus: all about Rabbi Broide’s move to Israel.All this and more, Behind the Bima.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. This week, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Josh Broide, and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by the renowned Israeli singer, Akiva Turgeman. Together, they explore Akiva's rise to fame, his deep personal connection to the music that unites the Jewish people, and his inspiring message of hope and resilience. Tune in for an intimate conversation that goes beyond the music. All this and more - Behind the Bima.Show Notes:Akiva Turgeman, known professionally as Akiva, is an Israeli singer-songwriter renowned for his fusion of traditional Jewish themes with contemporary music styles. Born in 1991 in Dimona, Israel, he is the son of Rabbi David Turgeman, head of the Gevoha Yeshiva, and hails from a family instrumental in founding Dimona. Akiva’s musical journey began at the Mizmor Music Academy, where he honed his singing and songwriting skills. Following his studies, he served as a combat soldier in the IDF’s Golani Brigade. His diverse musical influences range from Led Zeppelin to traditional Moroccan piyutim, reflecting his mixed Moroccan and Canadian heritage.   His breakthrough came in 2018 with the single “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (“Don’t Let Go”), which topped Israeli music charts and garnered millions of views on YouTube. Subsequent hits like “Pshutim” and “Atah Holech Iti” have solidified his place in the Israeli music scene. Akiva’s discography includes albums such as “Olamot” (2017), “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (2021), and “Elef Mena’ulim” (2024).

Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg navigates the intricate landscape of the 39th World Zionist Congress. Rabbi Goldberg is joined by five influential voices in the Jewish world: Rabbi Moshe Hauer representing the OIC-Mizrachi Slate, Rabbi Pesach Lerner of Eretz Ha’Kodesh, Rabbi Steve Burg from Aish Ha’am, Mort Klein of ZOA, and Dan Kaskel leading the Herut slate.As the election for this global congress unfolds, Rabbi Goldberg unpacks the implications of billions of dollars at stake, influencing policy and direction for the Jewish state and communities worldwide. The guests each represent a unique vision and agenda for their slates, aiming to direct the funds in ways that align with their core values and strategic goals.All this and more, Behind the Bima.00:00 - Introduction14:51 - Interview7:38 - Rabbi Moshe Hauer, OIC- Mizrachi Slate25:46 - Rabbi Pesach Lerner, Eretz Ha’Kodesh49:32 - Rabbi Steve Burg, Aish Ha’am1:06:16 - Mort Klein, ZOA1:22:44 - Dan Kaskel, Herut

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Philip Moskowitz, and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with the extraordinary Zevi Samet—a dynamic yeshiva bachur and celebrated basketball star whose journey is as inspiring off the court as it is on. Zevi shares his unique story of balancing Torah learning with athletic excellence, revealing how every game-winning shot is a lesson in perseverance, faith, and self-motivation. Join us as we explore his transformative path, the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence, and the powerful role of Torah in every facet of his life.Plus, get the inside scoop on our groundbreaking new media center, a campus expansion that’s doubling our impact, and our record-breaking global charity matching campaign that raised $6 million in just 48 hours!All this and more, Behind the Bima.00:00 - Introduction14:51 - Interview

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Daniel Kalisch, the Menahel of the Mesivta of Waterbury. Rabbi Kalish delves into the themes of community legacy, the impact of his father's dedication to Torah, and the importance of connection both within the community and in personal relationships. He shares profound insights on maintaining moral integrity, the significance of friendship in marriage, and the transformative power of faith and personal connection. Plus, reflections on contemporary challenges and the role of the Jewish community in fostering unity and resilience. All this and more, Behind the Bima.Can you join us as a Global Ambassador? We am looking for 250 members from our Global community to give or raise $1,800. You can pay it at one time or in installments. If you can commit to this, we have a special gift for you:Give or help raise $1,800 and join us and the BRS Rabbis in New York, Israel or Florida for an exclusive celebratory dinner with an exclusive BRS giveaway.If you can't be one of the 250 helping us with $1,800, please consider giving or raising $1,000 to be acknowledged as a global pillar in our newsletter or $360 to be entered into a raffle for two domestic flights to Florida to join our BRS community for a special Shabbos of Unity.Can you be one of the 250 that we can count on?It would be an enormous help towards our goal and realizing this dream of building our campus and building Klal Yisrael.Donate here: https://donate.charidy.com/40987?team....Create your own fundraising team here: https://view.charidy.com/new_team_pag....

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. In this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with Rabbi Doron Perez—a dedicated father, compassionate leader, and a unifying force for our Jewish community. Known for his steadfast role as executive chairman of the Mizrahi World Movement, Rabbi Doron opens his heart about the unimaginable pain of losing his beloved son, and yet, the deep resilience that has carried him forward.In this intimate conversation, Rabbi Doron shares how he has navigated the painful duality of grief and hope—balancing personal loss with his public mission of bridge-building and unity. He reveals how his journey has inspired him to reach across divides, fostering connection and healing within a community often challenged by discord.Join us as we delve into Rabbi Doron Perez’s reflections on loss, leadership, and the power of togetherness, and learn how one man’s strength is lighting the way for a more united future. All this and more, behind the bima.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima! This week, prepare for a powerful father-and-son duo who’ve made an indelible mark on both the Jewish community and the broader cultural landscape. Join Rabbi Efrem Goldberg as he sits down with the one and only Ben Shapiro and his father, David Shapiro, in an intimate, heartfelt conversation that explores everything from Ben’s path into political commentary to the profound impact of David’s musical genius on his son’s life and career.They’ll take us behind the scenes of their remarkable collaboration on the new musical “We Will Rise,” a stirring production spotlighting the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising that moved Israeli audiences to tears and ignited renewed hope in challenging times. Discover how a shared love of learning, faith, and the power of music forged an unbreakable bond between father and son—and glean parenting insights from David on raising a child who not only sits at your side in synagogue, but partners with you on grand creative endeavors.All this and more, Behind the Bima.