Drink It In

Gayle Kirschenbaum grew up as the target of her mother’s relentless cruelty. At sixteen, she left home—but the emotional wounds lingered for decades. In this heartfelt conversation, Gayle shares how she transformed their turbulent relationship through the radical act of forgiveness.We talk about:💔 Breaking free from generational pain🧠 Understanding family dynamics & mental health💡 Why forgiveness doesn’t require an apology🌱 How empathy & kindness can change everythingGayle’s story is more than healing—it’s a roadmap for anyone ready to reclaim peace and rewrite their family narrative.📖 Learn more: gaylekirschenbaum.com📚 Bullied to Besties – Barnes & Noble📸 Instagram

In this conversation, Jordana speaks with Aryeh Siegel who shares his remarkable journey from a secular upbringing to a deep exploration of spirituality, particularly through Transcendental Meditation and later, Jewish practices. A former TM teacher and national leader, Aryeh Siegel oversaw meditation programs in rehab centers before discovering the movement’s spiritual and ethical corruption. After becoming Torah observant, he testified as an expert witness in a class action suit that ended TM’s use in public schools. He discusses the impact of meditation on mental health, the development of his kosher meditation practice inspired by The Rebbe, and the feedback he has received from his books. Aryeh emphasizes the importance of finding a spiritual path that resonates with one's identity and the therapeutic benefits of meditation.The two discuss how:Meditation can provide profound rest and healing.Meditation is a therapeutic tool for stress management.The Lubavitcher Rebbe sought a kosher meditation for Jews.Aryeh transitioned from TM to Jewish spirituality.Meditation is a therapeutic tool for stress management.The technique of meditation can be adapted to Jewish practices.Find his books View his website

In this episode of Behind the Pages, Jordana speaks with Bari Mitzmann who shares her journey as an author. Bari Mitzmann is a Nevada-based marketing director by day and a content creator by night. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental health struggles and helping others cultivate a genuine, healthy relationship with G-d and Judaism. Her new book, Hakol B’Seder, chronicles her journey of healing and rediscovering what it means to live an authentic Torah life.The conversation delves into:-Bari’s experiences with mental health and how that affected her relationship with Judaism-Empathy and understanding are crucial in addressing mental health.-Being open about struggles can help others feel less alone.-Writing can be a therapeutic process.-The writing process involves multiple revisions and feedback.-It's essential to define your motivation for writing a book.-Publishing a book is a collaborative effort with many contributors.Hakol B’Seder is available for purchase at barianna.com/book.Connect with Bari on Instagram Connect with Bari via her website

Ever wonder who really writes the stories behind the stories? 👀✍️In this powerful episode of Drink It In: Behind the Pages, Jordana sits down with Rea Bochner — ghostwriter, spiritual coach, and founder of @awakejewishwomen — for a raw and deeply moving conversation.Rea opens up about her journey through:✨ Wrestling with faith and reclaiming her Jewish identity✨ Turning grief into healing through the written word✨ The sacred power of storytelling — especially for Jewish women✨ Life as a ghostwriter (it’s more soulful than you think)✨ 20 years of sobriety and the wisdom it’s brought herIf you’ve ever felt like your story is still unfolding… or you’re waiting for the words to express your truth — this episode will meet you there.🎧 Listen now and let your soul drink it in.📍Connect with Rea:Website: awakejewishwomen.comInstagram: @awakejewishwomenEmail: awakejewishwomen@gmail.com

Do you remember Ruchi Koval from Season 1? Well Ruchi is back as a guest on the podcast for season 14! Ruchi is a parenting coach who helps parents of teens and adult kids find peace and confidence in their relationships. She is also a kiruv Rebbetzin, musician, author of three books, mother of seven, and grandmother. Jordana and Ruchi discuss: • Ruchi Koval's journey from a reluctant Rabbitsen to a successful author. • The importance of structure in writing books. • Feedback from readers can be life-changing for authors. • Writing is a solitary process but can lead to profound connections. • Authors should embrace their unique voice and experiences. • Book titles should resonate with potential readers • Coaching informs speaking, which in turn informs writing, creating a symbiotic relationship. • Writing a book can enhance credibility and open doors for speaking engagements. • It's essential to clarify the purpose and audience before starting to write a book. • Scheduling time for writing is crucial to ensure completion of a book. • Support systems can provide the necessary safety nets to overcome fears.Purchase Ruchi's newest book "Soul Purpose"!Connect with her on her website or on Instagram!

🎙️ New Episode Alert!What if the key to your identity was hidden in your family’s past—buried for centuries?In this powerful episode of Drink It In: Behind the Pages, Jordana sits down with Devorah Esther Ivel Colon, a descendant of Christopher Columbus, who shares her unbelievable journey from Christianity to Orthodox Judaism—uncovering her roots in the hidden Converso communities of Puerto Rico.💫 Devorah’s story isn’t just about personal transformation—it’s about history, healing, and the legacy of the Spanish Inquisition still echoing today.Tune in as we explore: • The emotional toll of reclaiming a lost Jewish identity • The role of dreams and inner truth in guiding her journey • The impact of generational trauma—and how writing became her healing • Her mission to preserve the voices of forgotten Jews📚 Her debut book, The Last Anusah, and her historical fiction series The Watchmen are available now on Amazon.👇 Tap to listen, and let this story awaken something deep in your soul.You can find her books on Amazon and Amazon KindleThe Last AnusahThe Watchmen Vol. I -The Awakening of FernandThe Watchmen Vol. II- The Escape of Clara Rochel

Ever wonder if astrology and Torah can align?In this fascinating episode of Behind the Pages, Jordana sits down with Yitzchok A. Pinkesz, the Torah-observant astrologer behind the groundbreaking book, Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom 🌌📖For over 15 years, Yitzchok has blended Jewish philosophy, psychology, and astrology — and now he’s opening up about:💫 Why astrology isn’t off-limits in Judaism🌀 How your birth chart might reveal your spiritual gifts🛠️ The real story behind writing (and editing!) his book💬 The surprising reactions he’s received from the Jewish world💡 How self-awareness through the stars can spark compassion and growthThis isn’t about horoscopes and hype — it’s about discovering deeper meaning and personal purpose, the kosher way.🎧 Tune in now and open your mind to a whole new realm of Jewish insight.📕 Grab the book: Kosher Astrology on Amazon🌐 Learn more: kosherastro.com📸 Follow on IG: @kosherastro▶️ Subscribe on YouTube: KosherAstro Channel#DrinkItInPodcast #KosherAstrology #JewishGrowth #SpiritualWisdom #BehindThePages

Season 14, Episode 4 is here!In this powerful episode of Behind the Pages, Jordana sits down with Raizy Fried—author of two cookbooks and 'The Anatomy of A Yenta,' which combines memoir and self-help. Raizy Fried is a world-renowned author and dynamic speaker known for her heartfelt, woman-to-woman communication. With her warm and engaging style, Raizy captivates audiences.Her platform INSPIRED LIVING is where you can explore a variety of topics that focus on elevating and enriching the changing lives of today's Jewish women.Raizy shares her journey from a Boro Park girl to a successful author and influencer. She discusses her early experiences with cooking, her evolution into writing, and how the challenges she faced actually helped her reach her full potential. They dive into how: • The concept of a self-help memoir is innovative in the Jewish literary world. • How authors may face challenges in sharing her story while respecting others' dignity. • How women should be inspired to cultivate their own brand and elegance.If you’ve ever felt called to write, teach, or inspire—this one’s for you.Listen now and get ready to be moved, motivated, and reminded of the power of your own voice.Raizy can be reached on: Instagram: @raizyscookinOr her website: https://www.raizyfried.com/Check out her first cookbook, second cookbook, and self-help memoir.

Season 14, Episode 3 is here!In this powerful episode of Behind the Pages, Jordana sits down with Chana Weisberg—author of seven beloved books, host of the Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories podcast, and editor at Chabad.org.Chana opens up about her journey as a writer and speaker, sharing what it takes to connect deeply with readers, listeners, and audiences through authentic storytelling. From lessons drawn from biblical women like Sarah and Rivka to practical tips for aspiring writers, this episode is packed with wisdom.They dive into:— The role of women in Judaism— How feedback shapes a writer’s growth— Using your past to fuel your purpose— Why great communication changes everythingIf you’ve ever felt called to write, teach, or inspire—this one’s for you.Listen now and get ready to be moved, motivated, and reminded of the power of your own voice.Chana can be reached on Instagram or her website #DrinkItInPodcast #BehindThePages #JewishWomen #ChanaWeisberg #WritingJourney #Storytelling #SpiritualGrowth #JewishPodcast #WomenWhoInspire

Season 14, Episode 2 of Drink It In: Behind the Pages is here!This week, Jordana sits down with Rabbi Asher Gottesman—spiritual entrepreneur, connection coach, and author of Connection—for a raw, real, and deeply moving conversation.From losing it all to finding deeper purpose, Asher opens up about hitting rock bottom and discovering the power of human connection, service, and self-acceptance.Together, they explore: • What it means to truly connect with yourself and others • Why your story matters—flaws, failures, and all • The healing power of vulnerability and community • The behind-the-scenes journey of writing a book that speaks to every soulIf you’ve ever felt like you’re too broken to begin, this episode will remind you: connection is the key to wholeness.Listen now, connect with our guest, and tag someone who needs this conversation.

Season 14 of Drink It In is here — and we’re kicking it off Behind the Pages with a guest who embodies inspiration, tradition, and sparkle.I sat down with Rebbetzin Rochie Pinson, author of The Rising Life: Challah Baking. Elevated., Rising: The Book of Challah, and The Kids Book of Challah.From her roots in Vancouver to inspiring Jewish women around the world, Ruchi’s journey with challah is about so much more than baking — it’s about elevating life itself.In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, we explore: • The spark that launched Ruchi’s lifelong passion for challah • How challah connects us to our Jewish identity, community, and spirituality • The creation of her bestselling cookbooks that empower women and families to bring more meaning into their homesGet ready for a conversation filled with wisdom, warmth, laughter, and the timeless magic of challah.Connect with Rochie on Instagram and her website! She is available for booking for challah bakes and presentations as well as speaking engagements for women from all walks of life.Tune in now to Season 14, Episode 1 of Drink It In: Behind the Pages!

🎙️ Drink It In Season 13, Episode 9: “The Chosen Path” Get ready to be inspired as Jordana sits down with Jeff Haar, a convert to Judaism, to uncover his extraordinary journey of faith and self-discovery. Growing up in the heartland of the USA as a devout Christian, Jeff’s unwavering desire to “serve G-d no matter what” led him down a path he never imagined. From studying to become a Lutheran minister to being profoundly moved by two Jewish holidays, Jeff’s spiritual journey is packed with twists, challenges, and revelations. He opens up about questioning his beliefs, embracing Torah and mitzvot, navigating family dynamics, and finding his place in the Jewish community—all while holding onto hope and optimism. Plus, get a sneak peek at Jeff’s upcoming book, I Didn’t Really Plan to Be Jewish, and discover the transformative power of challenging perspectives in his debut work, Scriptural Dissonance. Jeff’s first book is called Scriptural Dissonance - Challenging Passages in the Gospels and Acts. Both can be found on Amazon books. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about faith, resilience, and the beauty of choosing your own spiritual path. 🎧 Tune in now!

🎙️ Season 13, Episode 8: The Chosen Path 🎶 What does it take to redefine your life, your faith, and your music? Meet @yosefdanielmusic a man whose journey is as inspiring as it is transformative. Born in Mexico, Joseph grew up straddling two worlds—his father’s U.S. Air Force discipline and his mother’s Mexican heritage. But it was a simple gift from his grandfather—a guitar—that ignited his lifelong love for music. Fast forward to 2010: Joseph, his wife Jezliah (whom you met in Episode 5), and their first son made the life-altering decision to convert to Orthodox Judaism. Now living in Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel, Joseph is a husband, father of seven, and a trailblazing musician blending Latin rhythms, pop melodies, and rock energy with Jewish spirituality. In this intimate conversation, Joseph opens up about: ✨ The challenges of growing up amidst cultural divides and personal crises. ✨ The transformative role of music in healing and discovering his identity. ✨ His deep dive into Judaism, from embracing Halakha to navigating the misconceptions about converts. ✨ The emotional journey of his family’s reactions to his conversion and uncovering his Jewish roots. Joseph’s story is one of resilience, faith, and the power of community. Don’t miss this episode filled with raw emotion, spiritual insight, and the inspiring message that choosing a new path is a courageous act of commitment and love. 🎧 Tune in to “Drink It In: The Chosen Path” now and be inspired by Joseph’s remarkable journey! Connect with Yosef: @yosefdanielmusic

In this deeply moving episode of Drink It In, Jordana sits down with the inspiring Meorah Ha-Me’ir, who shares her remarkable journey from Christianity to Judaism. Meorah opens up about the challenges of revealing her conversion story, the emotional and spiritual hurdles she overcame, and the transformative path she took to fully embrace her Jewish identity. With heartfelt candor, Meorah reflects on the pivotal role her family’s unwavering support played in her growth, both spiritually and personally. She unpacks the complexities of navigating life as a convert, offering a raw and inspiring perspective on the triumphs, challenges, and self-discoveries along the way. Meorah also reveals the profound significance behind her chosen Hebrew name, which beautifully connects her to her heritage and the new chapter of her life. Beyond her personal story, Meorah shares her passion for inspiring others through her creative work. As a Creative Director, religious entrepreneur, and Executive Vice President of the Jerusalem Great Synagogue, she is making waves in the Jewish world. She’s also the founder of Hameorah Creative, a digital agency committed to uplifting the Jewish community, and the host of @BigJewishIdeas. 🎧 Don’t miss this powerful exploration of faith, transformation, and the courage it takes to embrace a new identity. Tune in now and hear Meorah’s incredible story of resilience and renewal! Follow Meorah on Instagram, YouTube, and more. #DrinkItInPodcast #TheChosenPath #JewishJourney #ConversionStory #Faith #Transformation #BigJewishIdeas #Hameorah

✨ From South Africa to the Hills of Judea ✨ In this episode of Drink It In: The Chosen Path, we dive into the incredible journey of Ronel Barak—@cafe_ronel a wife, mother, grandmother, and convert to Judaism who now calls the breathtaking hills of Judea home. 🌄 Ronel shares her story of transformation, from growing up in a traditional Christian home in South Africa to discovering a deep connection with Hashem that led her to embrace Judaism. Together with her husband, she runs a boutique restaurant and shop, creating spaces of joy, unity, and celebration. 🍷🍴 Through struggles, miracles, and moments of clarity, Ronel found her chosen path. Tune in for a conversation about faith, identity, and the beauty of being part of the Jewish people. 🕊️ 🎧 Listen now on Drink It In: The Chosen Path—link in bio! #JewishJourney #ConversionToJudaism #FaithAndIdentity #DrinkItInPodcast Connect with Ronel: Facebook Instagram

🎙️ Drink It In: The Chosen Path – Season 13, Episode 5 This week, Jordana sits down with Jezliah, a woman whose life took an extraordinary turn from a Christian Sabbath-observant family in Texas to a family fully embracing Judaism. What began in a so called “boring” religious home turned into a transformative journey when her mother’s curiosity about Judaism sparked a life-changing decision. Even her father, a pastor, left the church to follow this new path. Discover how a warm Chabad community helped Jezliah navigate her new identity, how making Aliyah deepened her family’s connection to Judaism, and how Shabbat and the Jewish holidays have become their most treasured moments of joy and meaning. This episode is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to follow your heart, the strength of community, and the beauty of discovering your spiritual home. ✨ Tune in for an inspiring story of faith, family, and finding your true self! ______ Jezliah (also known as Jezliah Villarreal) is a Singer/Songwriter/Choreographer and Performer. Jezliah was born into a Christian family where her father was the Pastor of a Spanish speaking church and where her whole family was heavily involved in the ministry. She has been performing since the young age of eight and dreamed of pursuing a career in missionary and outreach through the performing arts. In 2006, Jezliah and her family left the church in search for truth in Judaism. She and her husband converted in 2010 and made aliyah. Since then, Jezliah has been involved in her community and is the Co-Founding Creative Director of the world-renowned RBS Dance and Music Academy in Ramat Beit Shemesh, up until the summer of 2019. She has performed all over Israel, and produced shows for women. Her story and journey to Judaism has inspired women and girls from all hashkafas. Jezliah currently lives in Ramat Beit Shemesh, with her husband, Yosef Daniel, who is also an established Singer and Musician, and her seven children. She has recently pursued a singing career in the growing industry of Female Jewish Entertainment and has released her own original music which can be found on all digital platforms. Jezliah aspires to be a vessel for Hashem to inspire women and girls all over the world. To learn more about Jezliah's journey, click on the links below. Kan 11 Interview Hidabroot Aish Jewish Press Spotify Instagram Youtube

🎙️ Drink It In: Season 13, Episode 4 – The Chosen Path This week, Jordana sits down with Tehila Bollag, a remarkable woman whose journey to Judaism began with a life-changing Purim party. Born in Warsaw and raised in Chicago, Tehila’s curiosity sparked a transformation that led her to embrace a new faith and a new life. Tehila opens up about the challenges and joys of converting to Judaism, the unwavering support of her loved ones, and the profound impact of finding her place in the Jewish community. From the beauty of Jewish holidays to her dreams for the future, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of identity, courage, and belonging. 🌟 Don’t miss this inspiring story of discovery, resilience, and faith. Tune in now! Check out Tehilla on Instagram!

In this episode, Jordana interviews the one and only Jewish pop sensation - Nissim Black. Nissim is popularly known for his songs such as Hashem Melech, Adored, and Fly Away. Though, he is also prominently known as a convert to Judaism. During this conversation, Nissim explores his spiritual journey from Islam to Christianity and ultimately to Orthodox Judaism. Nissim shares his early influences, the challenges, and the unexpected love and acceptance he found within the Jewish community during his conversion. He reflects on the impact of his conversion on his family and the unique experiences of raising children in a Jewish household in Israel. Nissim also reflects on his personal mission to spread awareness of Hashem and the power of his ‘voice’ in expressing his faith. Nissim Black is an American-Israeli Rapper, Singer, and influencer who is taking the world by storm. Growing up in the inner city of Seattle, Nissim Black saw firsthand the struggles and challenges of poverty and gang violence. But he didn't let that define him. Instead, he embraced his passion for music and used it as a vehicle to spread positivity and increase awareness of God through mainstream mediums. With a musical style that ranges from Rap to Pop, Nissim Black's unique sound has captured the hearts and minds of fans all around the world. On his YouTube channel alone, he's garnered more than 27.5-Million views worldwide. In addition to his musical talents, Nissim’s incredible story is currently being made into a comedy-drama series on HBO.

In this heartfelt episode of Drink It In, Jordana sits down with Nomi Spain-Levy, a board-certified clinical nutritionist. Nomi, a convert to Judaism, shares her deeply personal journey, starting from her childhood in foster care and adoption, to her path of discovering and ultimately embracing Judaism. She reflects on the challenges and joys she experienced while going through the conversion process including the emotional significance of the milestones that took place along her path. She also speaks a lot about her journey of finding acceptance within the Jewish community as a convert. Nomi also opens up about the complexities of balancing her new Jewish identity with the ties to her past, highlighting the importance of honoring both. Finally, Nomi reflects on the power of aesthetics in her life, and how art and beauty have become important aspects of her spiritual connection and sense of purpose. Tune in to this rich and insightful conversation about the challenges, triumphs, and deep personal growth that come with converting to Judaism and the importance of community, family, and identity along the way. Website: nomi@nomiknows.com Instagram: @nomiknowsnutrition WhatsApp: +19179246318

In this heartfelt and inspiring first episode of season 13 of Drink It In The Podcast, Jordana sits down with Kylie Ora Lobell, a passionate convert to Judaism, to hear her incredible story of faith, transformation, and belonging. Raised in a secular Christian home, Kylie opens up about her struggles with identity and spirituality—until she discovered the Jewish community. She reflects on the emotional and spiritual challenges of her conversion journey, the power of Mikvah, and the deep connection she’s forged with Jewish rituals and traditions. Kylie shares the profound joy she’s found in Jewish practices, from the warmth of Shabbat to the uplifting celebrations of the holidays. But this conversation isn’t just about her personal journey—it’s a conversation about the richness of Jewish life, the beauty of embracing diversity within the Jewish community, and the importance of gratitude and family. Kylie also discusses the role of names in shaping Jewish identity, the impact of community support in her conversion, and the often-overlooked experiences of converts. She opens up about the misconceptions people may have about those who choose to embrace Judaism, and the power of communal rituals—especially the deep, sensory experiences that make Jewish life so unique. Tune in for a moving, authentic conversation that not only explores the joys and challenges of conversion but also highlights what it truly means to be a part of the Jewish people. Whether you're a born Jew or a convert, this episode is a beautiful reminder of the power of community, tradition, and faith. About Kylie: Kylie Ora Lobell is president of KOL Digital Marketing, a marketing and PR company for Jewish businesses, organizations, authors, and influencers. She is also an award winning writer who has been published in the LA Times, New York Magazine, Washington Post, and Jewish Journal of LA. She can be found on X (https://x.com/kylieoralobell), Instagram (instagram.com/kylieorawriter), and LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylieoralobell).