Shtark Tank

We recorded a regular Shtark Tank conversation with Tuvia Eisenman—about sales, chessed, and life in Israel.Then the war broke out.Tuvia was called back to reserve duty, and he joins us now from his IDF base with an emergency update. He walks us through the past few days, shares what it’s like on the ground in the Jordan Valley, and offers powerful reflections on what soldiers and their families are facing right now.After the update, we return to the original conversation, recorded just days earlier. Tuvia shares how a yeshivish kid from Passaic ended up serving in the IDF, building a sales career in Israel, and using those skills to raise millions for nonprofits around the world. We talk about the art of listening—how it drives both sales and parenting—and how he balances intense frontline experiences with raising a family and living a life of purpose.We also dive into the world of nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Tuvia offers a frank take on why most campaigns fall flat, how organizations can do better, and why peer-to-peer giving—though messy and personal—is actually one of the frum community’s greatest strengths.

Simon Baum is a seasoned lawyer, a Daf Yomi maggid shiur (twice daily!), and a thoughtful voice on what it means to live an integrated Torah life while fully immersed in the workforce. But his real story begins not with success, but with a breakdown.In this moving and practical conversation, Simon opens up about:Hitting rock bottom after closing a billion-dollar dealReframing his relationship with Hashem from stress to serenityGiving a Daf Yomi shiur as a path to deeper learning and communityThe relationship between professional success and spiritual growthSimon shares his high-powered legal career, his weekly flights between London and Israel, and the moment of inner collapse that made him question everything—even at the peak of outward success.Real growth came not from switching jobs—but from changing his view of what it means to live with Hashem. Guilt-based Yiddishkeit gave way to an honest, intimate relationship with the Ribbono Shel Olam.Simon moved to a Tel Aviv law firm, enabling a less frantic schedule and new consistency in his learning. His twice-daily Daf Yomi shiur has grown into a tight-knit chevra with shared values and simchas.Work isn’t just a B’dieved. Simon explains how his law career actually deepened his Torah—offering insights, challenges, and identity shifts he couldn't have experienced elsewhere.Simon explores how to grow spiritually without falling into toxic introspection, and how healthier self-worth leads to healthier avodah, relationships, and responses to stress.Olam HaYedidus by Rav Shlomo WolbeBikshu M’sham and K’savim by Rav SoloveitchikCrossing the Unknown Sea by David WhyteMoney Quote: “Real relationships have closeness and distance. You don’t do Avodas Hashem just to tick boxes—you do it because it’s real, and you want to live it.”Chapters00:00 Intro and Early Life04:17 The Turning Point: Realizing the Need for Change10:02 Transforming Life: Practical Changes and New Perspectives17:00 Integrating Faith and Daily Life: A New Approach21:59 The Pilgrimage of Identity in Work23:50 Crisis and Self-Discovery27:19 Managing Stress and Relationships31:17 Navigating Self-Reflection and Growth35:39 Seeking Professional Help vs. Self-Help41:50 Future Aspirations44:00 Lightning Round

As we prepare for Shavuos, Rav Moshe Taragin joins Shtark Tank to discuss his powerful new book on Rav Yehuda Amital zt”l, a towering educator who fused unwavering Emunah with deep compassion and realism.The conversation moves from personal to national—from the rehab ward of an IDF hospital to the historical arc of Jewish destiny—and touches on some of the most urgent questions facing Bnei Torah today:What does real long-term chinuch look like?Is Jewish identity dependent on Torah observance?How do we avoid turning ambition into burnout?What does it mean to live a life of Kiddush Hashem—in Israel or abroad?To order the book: To order in IsraelTo order in America🧠 Key Topics:Faith under fire: Writing a sefer while in the ICU with his sonThe duality of chinuch: Rav Amital and Rav Lichtenstein as complementary voicesJewish identity beyond mitzvah observance: What Rav Amital taught us about Am YisraelKiddush Hashem as national mission: How Rav Amital redefined religious ZionismHungarian vs. Lithuanian Torah cultures: Ambition, hasmada, and mental healthLiving b’achdus: What we can learn from Oslo, Rabin’s assassination, and post-October 7th IsraelCareers, calling, and giving: Rav Taragin on choosing work that contributes to Yeshua Shel Olam💬 Quotes to Remember:“Kiddush Hashem isn’t just an individual act—it’s the arc of Jewish history unfolding.”“Stories don’t just teach; they preserve a lost world and reframe our present.”“Rav Amital reminded us: You’re a human being before you’re a masmid.”More Shtark Tank! Make sure to sign up for our newsletter at ⁠ShtarkTank.org⁠Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections07:11 The Role of Community and Family in Crisis13:13 Authenticity in Education and Long-Term Impact20:35 Jewish Identity and the Concept of Bechirah27:21 Kiddush Hashem: Personal and National Perspectives39:17 Lessons from the Oslo Accord and Internal Struggles45:52 Balancing Ambition and Mental Health in Jewish Education

What does it take to go from learning Torah to owning your unique chelek in Torah—and maybe even publishing it?In this powerful return to Shtark Tank, Rav Tzvi Goldstein joins us for a deep and practical conversation about writing, editing, publishing, and most of all—developing a personal connection to Torah that lasts beyond Yeshiva.Why your unique Torah insight matters—and why you might not have permission to keep it to yourselfHow Rav Hirsch and Rav Soloveitchik’s hashkafos shaped Rav Tzvi’s own Torah worldviewWriting as a spiritual discipline: not just for clarity, but for growth and legacyWhat to do before you publish (and how much it really costs)Behind the scenes of editing seforim for Rabbanim and laymen alikeWhy Substack might be the best starting point for sharing your TorahAnd yes—why your writing doesn't have to wait until you're 60Best Quotes“If you really have a unique Torah idea… you don’t have permission to keep it to yourself.”“Writing isn't just expression—it's clarity, chazara, and connection.”“Publishing a sefer isn't just about ego or status. It’s about celebrating Torah—with yourself, your family, and your community.”Thinking of Publishing?Rav Tzvi breaks down the entire process:Content edit → Copy edit → Proofread → Typesetting → Final read-through → Print or publish online.Whether you go with a major publisher or self-publish, he offers tips, costs, and what to expect—without the smoke and mirrors.For More from Rav TzviCheck out this substack post on the same topicOrder Rav Tzvi's book Halachic Worldviews

As we prepare for Shavuos, Rav Moshe Shwed, Director of All Torah, joins Shtark Tank to discuss the intersection of Torah, technology, and responsibility. A Brisk alum turned digital visionary, Rav Moshe shares how he helped launch some of the most popular Torah apps in the world — including All Daf, All Parsha, All Mishnah, and more.This conversation goes beyond product design. We dive into how working Bnei Torah can stay grounded in their learning, how accountability and consistency build spiritual momentum, and why technology — if used wisely — can be a powerful tool for harbatzas Torah.What We Discuss:Rav Moshe’s journey: Brisk, BMG, and the unexpected call from (or to) the OUThe origin story of All Daf and the 2019 Siyum HaShas pushCreating curated, Yomi-focused Torah content for the real worldA marathon runner from Georgia and the unexpected power of accessible TorahTorah and tech: Is it lechatchila or bedieved? Rav Moshe’s nuanced takeBuilding for depth in a short-form world: design choices and user realitiesWhat happens if the apps go offline? The mission to lower the barrier to entryThe launch of All Mishnah, All Parsha, and new frontiers like Nach YomiTorah as the ultimate unifier — and why that matters now more than everThe mem-ches kinyanei Torah and building a national beis medrashAdvice for working Bnei Torah: accountability, chaburas, and small stepsHow Torah changes the way your family sees youLinks & Resources:Download the apps: All Torah App SuiteMentioned seforim:Mishnas Rav Aharon (Rav Aharon Kotler)Shaarei HaZmanim (Rav Dessler, grandson of the Michtav M’Eliyahu)Don't miss out on excellent written content! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter at ShtarkTank.orgChapters00:00 Introduction04:57 The Origins of AllDaf and Its Unique Approach19:59 Balancing Technology and Traditional Learning36:45 The Unifying Power of Torah43:47 Success in Learning50:30 Lightning Round

What happens when the dream job just doesn’t feel like your dream?In this episode, we sit down with Yaakov (Bryant) Oberg, who left a successful banking career in LA in search of something deeper. What started as spiritual curiosity led to yeshiva in Yerushalayim, and later to a new challenge—integrating Torah learning into the reality of full-time work.He started out by learning a full morning seder followed by working in the afternoon and evening. But then he burnt out.This lead him to help launch: Kollel Gedulei Tzion, a kollel built around a bold idea—a half seder of high-quality learning for Bnei Torah in the workforce.This episode explores:The decision to walk away from a high paying job in pursuit of meaningWhat it looks like to live an integrated Torah–work lifestyleWhy sometimes less learning can lead to more growthIt’s a powerful reminder that success isn’t about how many hours you log—it’s about where your heart is.For more information on Kollel Gedulei Tzion, led by Rabbi Zev Horowitz, go to https://www.geduleitzion.org/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:12 Leaving Corporate Life for Yeshiva18:13 Establishing a New Learning Framework33:43 Reflecting on Work, Passion and SpiritualitySubscribe to our newsletter at ⁠⁠shtarktank.org⁠⁠ for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our ⁠⁠quiet whatsapp group ⁠⁠for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Thank you for listening.If this episode moved you, please take a moment to rate and review — it helps us bring more meaningful conversations to more people.Subscribe to Shtark Tank for thoughtful interviews, honest reflections, and real conversations for Bnei Torah navigating the modern world.

This week on Shtark Tank, we bring you a special megapod in honor of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut — a deep, emotional journey through stories of sacrifice, strength, and national pride.In this episode:Yakir and Josh Hexter's Story: Why one bereaved father turned down a public interview — and the lesson we all need to hear.Avraham and Daniel Colthuf: Two brothers, lawyers and reserve soldiers, who serve as chazanim for IDF funerals, standing by families in their darkest moments.Collection of Israel Stories:Jeff Swartz, former CEO of Timberland, on falling in love with Israel (from Invested podcast).Nobel laureate Professor Yisrael Aumann on losing his son and a powerful shiva visit.Highlights from Michael Eisenberg on making Aliyah and building a career in Israel.A personal reflection from my father about how a fallen soldier shaped our Aliyah story.Subscribe to our newsletter at ⁠shtarktank.org⁠ for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our ⁠quiet whatsapp group ⁠for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Thank you for listening.If this episode moved you, please take a moment to rate and review — it helps us bring more meaningful conversations to more people.Subscribe to Shtark Tank for thoughtful interviews, honest reflections, and real conversations for Bnei Torah navigating the modern world.00:00 Intro02:16 Yakir Hexter HY"D and Silent Grief07:30 Interview with Colthof Brothers54:56 Short Stories

With Yom HaShoah coming up this week, I sat down with Lawrence Burian, the COO of LIV Golf and the son of a Holocaust survivor. Before joining LIV Golf, Lawrence held a number of senior positions at the Madison Square Garden Company, the group behind the MSG Arena, the Knicks, the Rangers, MSG Network, and more. We spoke about his career, his father’s story, and how the two deeply interact. We also discussed Lawrence’s family’s involvement in Holocaust remembrance efforts, what Holocaust education should look like in 2025, and what it means to carry legacy into boardrooms, classrooms, and Jewish homes.This is a conversation about memory—but also mission.About trauma—but also strength.About Jewish identity that doesn't just survive—but builds.Topics we explore:Growing up as the son of a survivor—and what that taught Lawrence about purpose and pressureThe power of showing up proudly Jewish in high-stakes roomsLessons from a 13-year-old in Auschwitz that still echo in today’s leadership decisionsWhy Holocaust education needs to shift from trauma to relevanceOctober 7th, antisemitism, and why “never again” has to mean action—not slogansMentioned in this episode:A Boy From Bustina by Andrew Burian z”l (Order here – all proceeds go to Yad Vashem)Lessons From Our ParentsMan’s Search for Meaning – Viktor FranklThe Choice – Edith EgerSubscribe to our newsletter at shtarktank.org for more from working Bnei Torah around the world.Join our quiet whatsapp group for episode updates, event invites and exclusive bonus content.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:51 Lawrence's Journey in the Sports Industry06:53 Andrew Burian z"l, Lawrence's father16:00 Navigating Identity and Responsibility21:54 Contrasting Generations: From Trauma to Success25:00 Engaging the Next Generation in Holocaust Education33:47 Reflections Post October 7th39:45 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

What the Pesach Story Teaches About Justice, Dignity, and Purpose in the WorkplaceThis special bonus episode is for all the busy bnei Torah out there — whether you're scrubbing your kitchen, running errands, or on the road for Yom Tov.We know how hectic things get before Pesach, and sitting down to read a dvar Torah isn’t always realistic. That’s why we’re bringing you the audio version of a new essay posted on shtarktank.org — so you can prepare for the chag while on the move.In this episode, we explore:What Yetzias Mitzrayim teaches us about navigating the workplaceHow to carry values like justice, dignity, and purpose into our careersWhy this story isn’t just ancient history — it’s a blueprint for how we show up todayRead the original, and more, at: shtarktank.orgPlease sign up so that you don't miss future essays!Part of our new series of written divrei Torah from working bnei Torah — listeners and past guests of the show — The Write Way.

This special episode of Shtark Tank is a live recording from our third community event—and the first ever live podcast-style conversation. Recorded at the beautiful DLA Piper offices in Tel Aviv, the room was full of professionals, Bnei Torah, and thoughtful seekers, all gathered to explore a question at the heart of both our Jewish identity and our working lives: What does it mean to be free?We were honored to host Rabbi David Lapin, whose Torah, business experience, and wisdom challenged our assumptions about freedom, slavery, technology, work, and what really defines success.Together, we unpack:Why "freedom from" isn’t enough—and how Torah gives us freedom to rise above instinctThe hidden cost of entertainment and escapismHow Kiddush Hashem shows up at work—and why restraint is more powerful than reactionWhat Viktor Frankl teaches us about agency in the workplaceHow Shabbos might be our last line of defense in a distracted worldWhether you were there in person or are tuning in from your commute, we invite you to join this deep, practical conversation about the kind of inner freedom that can transform your life—from the boardroom to the beis medrash.Stay In TouchThere's more to Shtark Tank than just a podcast. Check out ShtarkTank.org and subscrive for meaningful blog posts. You can also check out our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here to join.Special thanks to DLA Piper for graciously hosting. This event was sponsored in memory of Shlomo David Ben Reuven Stanley Cohen z”l, by his son Simon Cohen. Also dedicated to the memory of Yehudit Shlomit bat Breina a”hLike what you hear?Please rate, review, and share Shtark Tank with a friend. It helps us reach more Bnei Torah in the workplace—and beyond.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:18 Understanding Slavery and Freedom for professionals09:49 Finding Spirituality in a Busy Life14:52 Engaging with Torah: Quality Over Quantity17:43 Freedom and Entertainment: A Double-Edged Sword25:03 Mastering Impulses: The Power of Restraint26:30 Audience Questions31:50 The Importance of Responsibility and Boundaries32:32 Shabbos: A Sanctuary in a Busy World38:16 The Interplay of Restrictions and Freedom in Judaism