Boss Maidel Podcast: Recent Episodes
Chanie Ehrentreu
Boss Maidel is a weekly podcast featuring conversations with women authors, creatives, entrepreneurs etc. In this podcast, we explore all dimensions of life relevant to the modern woman: motherhood, work, health, family, social interactions, etc. We also talk a lot about books: sharing recommendations, interviewing new authors and so much more! The goal is to create a sounding board that can facilitate growth, positivity and a greater sense of community.
Elizabeth Barnhill is the book buyer for Fabled Bookshop in Waco, Texas.
In this episode, we chat about how Elizabeth landed her dream job, how she handpicks books for costumers all over the country, her favorite book recommendations and much more.
Here are a few of Elizabeth's favorite books:
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum
These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant
Bully Market by Jamie Fiore Higgins
Go As A River by Shelley Read
To connect with Elizabth you can reach out to her a @wacoreads
To purchase books or request a Face Time appointment to shop the shelves, you can reach out to @fabledbookshop
Click here to join the Boss Maidel Bookclub and get Elizabeth's summer picks.
In this episode, we chat about Rachel's new book Atomic Anna.
From the critically acclaimed author of A Bend in the Stars, an epic adventure as three generations of women work together and travel through time to prevent the Chernobyl disaster and right the wrongs of their past.
In 1986, nuclear scientist Anna Berkova is asleep in her bed in the Soviet Union when Chernobyls reactor melts down. The energy surge accidentally sends her through time. When she wakes up, shes in 1992 and discovers Molly, her estranged daughter, shot in the chest. Should Anna travel in time to save her daughter or stop Chernobyl?
Anna goes to 60s Philadelphia, where Molly is coming of age as an adopted refusenik in a family full of secrets. Molly finds solace in comic books, drawing her own series, Atomic Anna. But when she meets volatile Viktor, their romance sets her life on a dangerous course. Anna then seeks out Mollys daughter, Raisa, in the 80s. Raisa is a lonely teen and math prodigy, who finds new issues of Atomic Anna in unexpected places. Each comic challenges her to solve equations leading to two impossible conclusions Time travel is real and so is the strange old woman claiming to be her grandmother.
These three remarkable women must work together across time to prevent the greatest nuclear disaster of the twentieth century, but simply because you can change the past, does it mean you should?
You can follow Rachel at www.rachelbarenbaum.com
You can listen to her podcast Check This Out with Rachel Barenbaum here.
To join the Boss Maidel Booklcub for $5.99 per month click here.
LAUREN FOX, who earned her M.F.A. from the University of Minnesota, is the author of the novels Days of Awe, Still Life with Husband, and Friends Like Us. Her work has appeared in numerous publications, including The New York Times, Marie Claire, Parenting, Psychology Today, The Rumpus, and Salon. She lives in Milwaukee with her husband and two daughters.
In this episode, we talk about Lauren's book Send for Me.
Annelise is a dreamer: imagining her future while working at her parents' popular bakery in Feldenheim, Germany, anticipating all the delicious possibilities yet to come. There are rumors that anti-Jewish sentiment is on the rise, but Annelise and her parents can't quite believe that it will affect them; they're hardly religious at all. But as Annelise falls in love, marries, and gives birth to her daughter, the dangers grow closer: a brick thrown through her window; a childhood friend who cuts ties with her; customers refusing to patronize the bakery. Luckily Annelise and her husband are given the chance to leave for America, but they must go without her parents, whose future and safety are uncertain.
Two generations later, in a small Midwestern city, Annelise's granddaughter, Clare, is a young woman newly in love. But when she stumbles upon a trove of her grandmother's letters from Germany, she sees the history of her family's sacrifices in a new light, and suddenly she's faced with an impossible choice: the past, or her future. A novel of dazzling emotional richness that is based on letters from Lauren Fox's own family, Send for Meis a major departure for this acclaimed author, an epic and intimate exploration of mothers and daughters, duty and obligation, hope and forgiveness.
Send for me is a New York Times Best Seller and A Today Show #ReadWithJenna book club pick.
Books discussed in this episode:
Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell
Northern Spy by Flynn Berry
The Island Child by Molly Aitken
Michal Oshman is Head of Company Culture, Diversity and Inclusion at TikTok Europe and formerly responsible for international leadership and team development at Facebook. Throughout her career, Michal has trained and coached hundreds of tech leaders. She has three university degrees in psychodynamic and systemic thinking, sociology and anthropology. Michal lives with her husband and their four children in London, UK.
As a mentor for leaders in top global companies, Michal created a unique personal growth methodology based on the life-changing principles of Jewish wisdom. It is easy to think that the daily challenges we experience in the 21st century are new and unlike any that people faced in the past. Michal draws on her own heritage and a wide range of Jewish teachings to offer practical advice for common concerns, such as a broken heart, parenting, overcoming setbacks and getting the most out of your career.
You can purchase Michal's book here.
Elyssa Friedland is the author of four novels and a forthcoming picture book. She attended Yale University, where she served as managing editor of the Yale Daily News, and is a graduate of Columbia Law School. She worked as an associate at a major firm before turning to writing full-time. Elyssa currently teaches creative writing at Yale. Her work has been published in The Washington Post, McSweeney’s, LitHub, POPSUGAR, RealSimple.com, Bustle, Modern Bride, New York magazine, Columbia Journalism Review, CBS MarketWatch.com, Yale Alumni Magazine and more. Elyssa resides in New York City with her husband and three young children.
In this episode, we chat about Elyssa's latest book: Last Summer At The Golden Hotel. In its heyday, The Golden Hotel was the crown jewel of the hotter-than-hot Catskills vacation scene. For more than sixty years, the Goldman and Weingold families – best friends and business partners – have presided over this glamorous resort which served as a second home for well-heeled guests and celebrities. But the Catskills are not what they used to be – and neither is the relationship between the Goldmans and the Weingolds. As the facilities and management begin to fall apart, a tempting offer to sell forces the two families together again to make a heart-wrenching decision. Can they save their beloved Golden or is it too late?
You can follow Elyssa here.
You can purchase Elyssa's book here.
Click here to purchase tickets to my Zoom event with author Nadia Hashimi in conjunction with the Jewish Public Library.
In this episode, I chat with Esty Perman who is a Chabad shlucha ( emissary) in Kansas. In addition to her numerous responsibilities as a preschool teacher, running various learning and community programs etc. Esty is a busy mom trying to juggle it all. She shares her experiences and thoughts on motherhood, spirituality, her journey with secondary infertility etc. on her Instagram account.
The quote I share in the beginning of the episode is from Wisdom to Heal the Earth: Meditations & Teachings of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson by Tzvi Freeman.
"Each journey the soul travels takes her higher.
Some Journeys are painful, but with purpose. The purpose overwhelms the pain and transforms it into joy.
Some journeys are painful, but with no purpose in sight.There is no medicine to wash away the pain.
There is no medicine, other than faith that ever journey the soul travels takes her higher. Some so much higher, she cannot even imagine their meaning. Until she arrives."
Books that were mentioned:
How To Do the Work by Dr. Nicole LePERA
60 Days: A Spiritual Guide to the High Holidays by Rabbi Simon Jacobson
What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid? by Michal Oshman
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Beata Heuman: Every Room Should Sing
This is the episode where Rabbi Shais Taub talks about the concept of attaining a level where we thank G-d for the perceived bad a swell as the good in our lives.
Ruth Druart has been working in international schools in Paris since 1993. Four years ago, she completed a masters in international education, exploring the topic of third culture children and their sense of belonging- a theme that runs through her novel. She has been writing for the last nineteen years in her spare time and runs a writing group in Paris. She has three sons with her French husband.
In this episode, we talk about Ruth's book While Paris Slept. Told from alternating perspectives and set in a dual timeline (during and post World War II), While Paris Slept tells the story of a young woman who is forced to make the hardest decision of her life during one of the darkest times in history. While Paris Slept is a tribute to the kindness, compassion and love that humans can achieve even under the direst of circumstances.
You can follow Ruth here.
You can connect with Ruth on Instagram here.
Purchase While Paris Slept here.
Ruth's recent favorite reads are:
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
This Must Be The Place by Maggie O'Farrell
As soon as she learned of the discovery of the first-century tombstone that inspired Rebel Daughter, Lori Banov Kaufmann wanted to know more. She was so intrigued by the unlikely but true love story the stone revealed that she embarked on a more than ten-year quest with some of the world's leading scholars and archaeologists to bring the real characters to life as accurately as possible.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Lori was a strategy consultant for high-tech companies. She has an undergraduate degree from Princeton and a masters from Harvard. She lives in Israel with her husband and four adult children.
You can find Lori here.
You can follow Lori here .
Alyssa Goldwater is a CEO, wife, mom and the Digital Influencer behind the lifestyle brand, A Glass of Goldwater (@alyssagoldwater). Merging motherhood with humor, A Glass of Goldwater has become a community and support network of over 50,000 women across the world. Alyssa has created a world where creativity is queen and a glass ceiling does not exist. In this episode, we chat about how Alyssa grew her brand and how it has evolved over time. We also talk about Alyssa's experience being a Type 1 diabetes mom. We both get candid about our experience with anxiety and Alyssa shares what has helped her manage it. Of course, we also talk about books and we have some great recommendations for you! You can follow Alyssa here. Check out this important post about Type 1 diabetes. Alyssa's reading recommendations are: Beach Read by Emily Henry The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah The Rose Code by Kate Quinn Dear Emmy Blue by Lia Louis Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens You can find all these books here.
Asha Lemmie is the New York Times Bestselling Author of Fifty Words For Rain. After graduating from Boston College with a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing, she relocated to New York City where she worked in book publishing. Asha writes historical fiction that focuses on bringing unique perspectives to life. In normal times, she divides her time between New York, London, and Kyoto.
Fifty Words for Rain is Asha’s first novel. You can purchase it here.
In this episode, we talk about the inspiration and story behind Asha's best selling book Fifty Words for Rain. Asha started writing this book at the young age of sixteen years old! We chat about what drew her to write about Japan post WWII, how she has dealt with the huge success of the book ( Asha had a fear of public speaking) and why it's important to NOT choose a book by its Good Reads rating!
This is a special episode, where I partner with Rucki from Blue Door Books to talk about some great summer reads. If there was a theme or subtitle for this episode it would be getting out of your comfort zone. This episode is sure to zhoosh up your reading life! We recommend some well know books as well as some hidden gems and we offer selections in numerous categories: mystery/thriller, historical fiction, self help etc.
All books mentioned in this episode can be purchased through Blue Door Books. Make sure to follow Blue Door Books on Instagram, you are not going to want to miss their new selections every Tuesday on Insta stories. Happy reading everyone!
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner
Libertie by Kaitlyn Greenidge
Early Morning Riser by Katherine Heiny
A Question Mark is Half a Heart by Sofia Lundberg
Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker
The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo
Bonus picks:
Haven Point by Virginia Hume
How To Do The Work by Dr. Nicole LePera
Jenna Maio Esq. is a wife, mother, and freelance writer. She studied English and creative writing at Emory University and then completed a joint degree in law and environmental studies from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Over the years, she learned at Neve Yerushalayim and Midreshet Rachel V’Chaya in Jerusalem, where she deepened her Jewish learning. She recently published her first book, Princess Without A Crown: Returning to My Jewish Roots, which was a serial column in AmiLiving magazine and can now be bought on Amazon and in select Jewish bookstores. She also hosts the Modern Jewish Girl podcast, available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. She can be contacted through her website, www.modernjewishgirl.com.
In this episode, we talk about Jenna's remarkable story of reconnecting to her Jewish roots. Jenna also shares how she discovered her passion for writing using the Feldenkrais Method. In addition to her writing, Jenna shares various thoughts and ideas about living a Jewish life on her podcast Modern Jewish Girl.
Jenna's favorites:
Book: A Well Behaved Woman by Therese Anne Fowler
Easy Dinner: Anything in the Dinner Done cookbook by Between Carpools
City: Jerusalem
You can follow Jenna here.
JENNY ASHCROFT is a British author of historical fiction books including Beneath a Burning Sky and Island in the East. Having spent many years living, working and exploring in Australia and Asia, she is now based in Brighton where she lives with her family by the sea. She has a degree from Oxford University in history, and has always been fascinated by the past—in particular the way that extraordinary events can transform the lives of normal people.
In this episode, we chat about Jenny's new book (and the #bmbookclub pick for May) Meet Me in Bombay. We talk about Jenny's love of historical fiction and how her travels have inspired her writing. We also get a sneak peek into what Jenny is currently working on!
You can find Jenny here.
Jenny's summer reading list:
The Last Daughter by Nicola Cornick
The Perfect Guests by Emma Rous
The Hidden Child by Louise Fein
The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough
Yaffy Newman is a born South Floridian currently residing in Jerusalem with her Israeli husband. She is a proud Jew of color who shares about her lived experience in order to break down stigmas and build bridges of understanding. Yaffy is currently studying computer science, loves to read in her free time and is passionate about fashion.
In this episode, we talk about Yaffy's important work educating people (particularly the Orthodox Jewish community) on racism. One really important quote that we discuss is "nice does not equal not racist". It is imperative that we educate ourselves and step out of our comfort zones to really create internal change.
You can follow Yaffy here.
Yaffy's favorites:
Book: The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
City: NYC
Easy meal: Pasta
Sarri Singer, born in Lakewood, New Jersey, is the daughter of New Jersey State Senator, Robert Singer. Until 9/11, Sarri worked a few blocks away from the World Trade Center. Deeply moved by the tragedy of 9/11, Sarri decided to resign from her position in December 2001 and move to Israel to help victims of terror. While there, Sarri volunteered with various organizations working with victims of terror.
On June 11, 2003, Sarri was on Bus 14 in Jerusalem when an 18-year-old Palestinian terrorist dressed as a religious Jew boarded and blew himself up. 17 people were killed, including all those seated and standing around her, and over 100 people were injured. Sarri was hospitalized for two weeks and then returned to New Jersey to be with family.
Her story became high profile. She appeared on television stations such as CBS, Fox News, CNN and radio interviews. She spoke before Congressmen and Senators in Washington, D.C. and politicians in New York and New Jersey. In September 2003 she returned to work and volunteering in Israel. In June 2004, she returned to the United States to take care of ongoing medical issues associated with her attack.
Sarri is the Founder and Director of Strength to Strength (www.stosglobal.org), which focuses on bringing together victims of terrorism together from around the world and assisting with long term psychological needs. Sarri has addressed audiences throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, and Israel and continues to share her unique insight into the ongoing struggle for victims of terror in Israel and around the world.
You can follow Sarri here.
Rachel Beanland writes essays and fiction and is the author of the debut novel, Florence Adler Swims Forever, which was released by Simon & Schuster (July 2020). The book was selected as the Barnes & Noble Book Club pick for July, and was named a Featured Debut by Amazon and an Indie Next pick by the American Booksellers Association. It was also named a New York Times Editors’ Choice and one of the best books of 2020 by USA Today.
Rachel’s essays have appeared in Lit Hub, Business Insider, Creative Nonfiction, and Broad Street, among other places. She is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and earned her MFA in creative writing from Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel lives in Richmond, Virginia with her family.
In this episode, we chat about the story behind Florence Adler Swims Forever. Rachel decided to write the story as it was based on real life events that took place in her family. We also talk about Atlantic City in the 1930's and the extraordinary achievements of Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel.
You can purchase Florence Adler Swims Forever here.
You can follow Rachel here.
Learn more about Martin Couney and his boardwalk incubators.
Rachel's current favorite reads are:
Libertie by Kaitlyn Greenidge
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks
Half A Life by Darin Strauss
Frumee Taubenfeld is an influencer, fashion blogger and social media personality who thrives on connecting with her followers by showcasing fashion styling and inspiration while doing carpool in between. She's built her following by showing her authentic self, letting people know that what you see is what you get. She lives in Lawrence, NY with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
In this episode, we talk about the delicate balance of showing up authentically on social media while maintaining privacy and boundaries. Frumee shares how her style has evolved and how the ever changing landscape of social media has influenced how she shows up and cultivates her tribe.
We also talk about her favorite books as Frumee is an avid reader.
Some of them include:
Untamed by Glennan Doyle
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Good Morning Monster by Catherine Gildiner
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A Woman Is No Man by Etaf Rum
Fifty Words for Rain by Asha Lemmie
The Storyteller's Secret by Sejal Badani
The Push by Ashley Audrain
You can find Frumee here.
Please note, we do talk about sensitive topics, this episode is not intended for little ears!
Dr. Bat Sheva Marcus is a certified sex therapist and the author of Sex Points: Reclaim Your Sex Life with the Revolutionary Point System. Dr. Marcus is the Clinical Director of Maze Women’s Sexual Health, the largest independent sexual health center in the country. Dr. Bat Sheva has a masters in public health, social work, Jewish studies and a phd in human sexuality. She co-hosts the popular podcast Joy of Text with Rabbi Dov Linzer.
Dr. Marcus has worked as the executive director of not-for-profit institutions and corporations, medical practices and laboratories. In addition to being featured in a NY Times article, she is a frequent guest on radio, podcasts and has lectured both nationally and overseas on a wide variety of women’s issues.
In this episode, we talk about Dr. Bat Sheva's new book Sex Points
Dr. Bat Sheva Marcus believes a healthy, robust, fulfilling sex life is a right for all women. And after twenty years as a sex therapist, Dr. Bat Sheva knows that there’s more to sex than lingerie and beach vacations. Sex Points is the first book that helps you identify and analyze for yourself what factors are affecting your sex life. Using Dr. Bat Sheva’s revolutionary Sex Points Assessment, you can pinpoint what’s keeping you from the great sex you deserve by looking at where you’re scoring low in four key areas: pain, arousal, libido, and orgasm. And then she’ll help you get points back in each of those areas!
You can purchase Sex Points here.
You can find Dr. Bat Sheva here.
Dr. Bat Sheva mentions this book in our interview.
Dara Horn was born in New Jersey in 1977 and received her Ph.D. in comparative literature from Harvard University in 2006, studying Hebrew and Yiddish. In 2007 she was chosen by Granta magazine as one of 20 “Best Young American Novelists.” Her first novel, In the Image, published by W.W. Norton when she was 25, received a 2003 National Jewish Book Award, the 2002 Edward Lewis Wallant Award, and the 2003 Reform Judaism Fiction Prize. Her second novel, The World to Come, published by W.W. Norton in 2006, received the 2006 National Jewish Book Award for Fiction, the 2007 Harold U. Ribalow Prize, was selected as an Editors’ Choice in The New York Times Book Review and as one of the Best Books of 2006 by The San Francisco Chronicle, and has been translated into eleven languages. Her third novel, All Other Nights, published in 2009 by W.W. Norton, was selected as an Editors’ Choice in The New York Times Book Review and was one of Booklist’s 25 Best Books of the Decade. In 2012, her nonfiction e-book The Rescuer was published by Tablet magazine and became a Kindle bestseller. Her fourth novel, A Guide for the Perplexed, was published by W.W. Norton in September 2013, and was selected as one of Booklist‘s Best Books of 2013 and was longlisted for the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction. She has taught courses in Jewish literature and Israeli history at Sarah Lawrence College and City University of New York, and was a Visiting Professor in Jewish Studies at Harvard, where she taught Yiddish and Hebrew literature. She has lectured at over two hundred universities and cultural institutions throughout North America, in Israel and in Australia. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and four children.
In this episode, we talk about Dara's book All Other Nights.
How is tonight different from all other nights? For Jacob Rappaport, a Jewish soldier in the Union Army, it is a question his commanders have answered for him: on Passover, 1862, he is sent to New Orleans to murder his own uncle, who is plotting to assassinate Lincoln. After this harrowing mission, Jacob is required to pursue another enemy agent - this time his job is not to murder the spy but to marry her.
All Other Nights brilliantly explores themes such as free will, regret, atonement, forgiveness and freedom. Based on historical facts, this book offers a rare glimpse into the Jewish population and the role they played in the Civil War.
You can learn more about Dara's work here.
Zibby Owens is the creator and host of the award-winning podcast Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books. Zibby, named “NYC’s Most Powerful Book-fluencer” by New York Magazine’s Vulture, conducts warm, inquisitive conversations with authors, making her show a top literary podcast as selected by Oprah.com in 2019 and 2020. She also created the Moms Don’t Have Time to Lose Weight community and hosts the accompanying podcast. Zibby is a regular contributor to Good Morning America and has recommended books in the Washington Post, Real Simple and other outlets.She has also contributed to Parents, Marie Claire, Redbook, the New York Times online, and many other publications. Most recently, she released an anthology, Moms Don’t Have Time To: A Quarantine Anthology.
In this episode, we chat about Zibby's podcast and her new book Moms Don't Have Time To: A Quarantine Anthology. Filled with essays by over 60 authors the book is grouped into categories of moms don't have time to: read, work out, eat, have sex and breathe. This book will make you laugh, cry and feel ever so normal about whatever it is that you are attempting to do amidst the all consuming job of motherhood.
You can purchase the book here.
You can follow Zibby here.
You can listen to Zibby's podcasts here.
Linda Grant was born in Liverpool. She read English at the University of York and did further postgraduate studies in Canada at McMaster and Simon Fraser Universities. For some years she worked as a journalist, writing for the Guardian and Independent on Sunday. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and holds honorary doctorates from the University of York and John Moores University.
Her first novel, The Cast Iron Shore (1996), won the David Higham First Novel Prize and was shortlied for the Guardian Book Prize. Her next book, Remind Me Who I Am, Again (1998), a family memoir about her mother’s dementia, won the Mind Book of the Year award and the Age Concern Book mod the Year award. Her next book, When I Lived in Modern Times (2000) won the Orange Prize for Fiction. Her next novel, Still Here (2000) was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize. Her non-fiction book, The People on the Street: A writer’s View of Israel, (2005) won the Letter Ulysses Prize for Literary Reportage. Her next novel, The Clothes on their Backs (2008) was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. Her seventh novel The Dark Circle (2016) was shortlisted for the Bailey’s Prize and the Wingate Prize. Her latest novel, A Stranger City, was published in 2019.
In this episode, we talk about Linda's novel The Dark Circle. The story is set in post war London. East End twins Lenny and Miriam Lynskey are relieved that the war is behind them and despite the grim post war rations and environment they are ready to embrace life to it’s fullest. However, their grand plans are drawn to an abrupt halt when they discover that they have tuberculosis.
Lenny and Miriam are dispatched to the Gwendo, a newly constructed modernist sanatorium in the Kent countryside that offers free care to all, from aristocrats to car dealers. There they meet a motley crew of patients all desperate for the much awaited and low in supply "miracle cure" streptomycin.
With eerie similarities to our current Covid pandemic, this book will have you thinking about the perseverance of the human spirit against all odds .
You can find Linda here.
You can discuss this episode on SHMUZY here.
After working for a corporate recruiter, California Job Shop founder, Estee Cohen, realized that there were two big problems in the world of employment: first, small businesses have unique staffing needs and require excellent entry level and mid-level employees quickly and efficiently, but they can’t afford to pay $10,000 and up for a recruiter and they don’t have the time to wait several months to fill a position. Second, but equally important, job seekers have difficulty accessing positions. California Job Shop solves both issues: we cater to small businesses and find great employees at an affordable fee and within 45 days. For job seekers, we are completely accessible, approachable and act as a portal for positions in health, mental health, billing, sales, education, business, wholesale, retail, non-profits and more.
In this episode, I chat with Estee about the start and growth of her business. Over time, Estee has learned to fine tune the practical logistics of the business as well as prioritize her time. For any busy, working mom who is struggling to keep it all together, this episode will offer clarity on how to deal with a full plate.
Favorites:
Quote: " When a door closes, find a window."
Book: The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
11/22/63 by Stephen King
Making Time by Jane Lancaster
City: Hong Kong
You can find Estee here .
You can listen to this episode and chat about it on SHMUZY.
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim is the education director at the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life and a lecturer on Jewish Medical Ethics at Binghamton University. A self-described "Chassidic Feminist", she lectures internationally on the intersection of Jewish observance and contemporary life with a special focus on Jewish women. She is the editor of Total Immersion: A Mikvah Anthology and Bread and Fire: Jewish Women Find G-d in the Everyday, an anthology on Jewish women’s spiritually. Mrs. Slonim serves on the Editorial Board of the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute and is co-author of one of JLI’s most popular courses, Fascinating Facts.
In this episode, we talk about women's role in Judaism. Rivkah discusses the sin of Eve and explains the deeper chassidic explanation that sheds a completely different light on the story of the original sin. Rivkah talks about a woman's unique purpose and work in uncovering the hidden G-dliness that is all around us in this physical world.
You can purchase Bread and Fire here.
You can purchase Total Immersion: A Mikvah Anthology here.
Esther Amini is a writer, painter, and psychoanalytic psychotherapist in private practice. Her short stories have appeared in Elle, Lilith, Tablet, The Jewish Week, Barnard Magazine, Washburn University’s Inscape Literary Journal, and Proximity. She was named one of Aspen Words’ two best emerging memoirists and awarded its Emerging Writer Fellowship in 2016 based on her memoir entitled: “Concealed” and was chosen by JWT as their Artist-in-Residence in 2019. Her pieces have been performed by Jewish Women’s Theatre in Los Angeles and in Manhattan.
Esther Amini lives in New York City with her husband.
Concealed is her debut memoir.
In this episode, we chat about Esther's book Concealed. In her beautifully crafted memoir, Esther describes her colorful childhood growing up in Queens, NY as the daughter of Persian parents who fled Mashhad, Iran. Straddling two completely opposing cultures, Esther and her mother are pulled towards all the glorious freedoms that America has to offer while simultaneously being held back by a father/husband who can’t bear to see his daughter/wife stray from Iranian culture. This book will make you laugh and cry and offers a fascinating account of the history of Mashadi Jews.
You can find Esther here.
You can purchase Esther's book here.
Chavi Eve Karkowsky grew up in Maryland; went to college at Yale University, and completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She then went on to residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the integrated program at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, followed by a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Dr. Karkowsky lives with her husband and four kids.
In this episode, we discuss Chavi's new book High Risk. In her book, Chavi explores the complexities of reproductive life and everything we lose when we don’t speak honestly about women’s health. We lose the ability to care for people in our community who may have experienced a miscarriage or still birth and the ability to dictate our own care and policy on women’s health. Most importantly, we miss the opportunity to share our stories and unique experiences. Chavi discusses both the incredible strides that modern medicine has made while acknowledging issues and areas that desperately demand progress.
You can purchase Chavi's book here.
You can follow Chavi here.
Let's chat about this episode on Shmuzy, simple join my forum titled High Risk.
Leah Schapira is one of the founders of the beloved site Between Carpools. Leah as also the best-selling author of Fresh & Easy Kosher Cooking and the co-author of the Made Easy and Secret Restaurant Recipes cookbook series. Leah is the ultimate connector, she networks constantly and is always making new friends. When she’s not busy doing any of the above, you will find Leah testing yet another way to enjoy pizza, or having lunch with some new talent she discovered.
In this episode, we talk about how Leah began the popular site Between Carpools. Leah talks about her start in cooking, how she met and formed the team behind Between Carpools and how she was fueled by the desire to share recipes, advice and products to help busy moms.
Leah and I chat about the importance of respecting someone's creative vision (a huge factor in successful team work) and the necessity for women to have the option of remaining private on social media. We also shmooze about Leah's favorite recipes, the women that inspire her and where she feels the most uplifted.
Favorites:
Food: Pizza
Way to unwind: Meeting a friend for lunch
Easy Dinner: Chicken cutlets (you will find some great recipes in the cook book)
You can purchase Dinner Done here.
To explore Between Carpools click here.
You can also follow Between Carpools here.
Let's continue this conversation on SHMUZY.
Alyson Richman is the #1 international bestselling author of seven novels including The Velvet Hours, The Garden of Letters, and The Lost Wife, which is currently in development for a major motion picture. The Secret of Clouds, out in February 2019, centers around the transformative bond between a mother and her son, and a teacher and her student. A story that will make readers examine what it means to actually live life with a full heart.
In this episode, we talk about Alyson's novel The Secret of Clouds. We also talk about Alyson's creative process and how she structures her writing.
Alyson is the daughter of an abstract painter and an engineer, she credits her parents for shaping her curiosity and imagination. All of her books are infused with the theme of light and shadow corresponding to the inevitable suffering that life can bring and how we can ultimately triumph in the end. This theme echoes back to what Alyson’s mother told her about life existing in many shades of grey. Alyson’s writing is an artistic process, and each chapter is a mini canvas full of textures and colors.
Favorites:
Quote: "Small rooms discipline the mind and large rooms distract it."
Book: One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
The invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E Schwab
City: Venice
You can find Alyson here.
You can follow Alyson on Instagram here.
Powerful and compassionate, soulful and worldly, insistent and understanding, Slovie Jungreis Wolff is an acclaimed author, lecturer and parenting instructor. She is the leader of Hineni Couples and has taught about life, relationships and marriage for more than 30 years. She gives weekly classes on the East and West side of NYC, Long Island, Brooklyn and Westchester. Slovie’s groundbreaking parenting hand book ‘Raising A Child With Soul ’is published by St. Martin’s Press and has been a source of support and guidance to parents and families all over the world . She has given workshops and lectured extensively throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Panama, Europe and Israel and has addressed thousands at South Africa’s Sinai Indaba by the invitation of Chief Rabbi Goldstien. Slovie is a popular columnist for the renowned site, Aish.com where her articles about life and Judaism have inspired people worldwide. Her parenting workshops on JewishEbooks.com. has reached audiences around the globe. She is also a columnist for Binah and Ami magazines. Slovie is the daughter of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis and continues her mother’s legacy of rekindling the spark within every soul.
In this episode, we talk about Slovie's book Raising A Child With Soul. As parents, we tend to focus on the external success and achievements of our children such as getting good grades, collecting accolades etc. but do we take the time to focus on how we are shaping our children's souls? Through the endless wisdom of Torah, Slovie shares thoughts and ideas on how to cultivate gratitude, empathy, mindfulness and humility in our children.
You can purchase Slovie's book here.
You can listen to Slovie's talks here.
Let's continue this conversation here.
Dani Shapiro is the author of the instant New York Times best selling memoir, Inheritance, which was published in January 2019 by Knopf. Her other books include the memoirs Hourglass, Still Writing, Devotion, and Slow Motion, and five novels including Black & White and Family History.
Along with teaching writing workshops around the world, Dani has taught at Columbia and New York University, and is the cofounder of the Sirenland Writers Conference in Positano, Italy.
In February of 2019, Dani launched an original podcast, Family Secrets, in collaboration with iHeartMedia. An iTunes Top 10podcast, the series features stories from guests who—like Dani— have uncovered life-altering and long-hidden secrets from their families’ past.
In this episode, we talk about Dani's memoir Inheritance. Dani's extraordinary story made me rethink how we view family and the rigid definition that we often associate wth the word. In truth, family is so much more then a biological connection, a passing of genes. It is love, security, acceptance a sense of belonging etc. and sometimes it is none of that which makes family so tricky.
You can find Dani here.
You can purchase Dani's book here.
Adele believes that refining our lives in both big and small ways is an affirmation that no matter what.. life's looking good.She does this via her lifestyle platform www.life'slookingood.com where she helps individuals elevate how they look and how they live.
Estie Kessler is an interior designer and busy mama. Creating beautiful spaces is her passion and Estie believes that the spaces we occupy the most become the back drop of our lives. Estie recently moved from California to Texas to build her dream home. You can follow her journey on her blog Abode by Estie.
This episode is brought to you by SHMUZY let's connect and converse about design!
You can follow Adele's forum on: Thanksgiving tables here.
You can follow Estie's forum on: Building a home from the ground up here.
You can follow my forum on: Embracing Color and Pattern here.
In this episode, we share all our favorite design tips and tricks. Among the topics discussed:
Art:
-We recommend going larger in size, a 30"x 40" print can make much more of an impact.
-Play with scale, pair large and bigger sizes in groups.
- Always hang art at eye level which is approximately 57" from the floor. -
Some of our favorite resources are: Minted, Juniper Print, Society 6 Shop and local flea markets.
Mix the high and low:
-Don't be afraid to splurge and save! Every room should have an eclectic mix of both.
- Estie loves Chairish for fabulous vintage finds. Adele loves her vase from H & M and her daughter's dresser from Ikea.
Paint: -
-Paint is the easiest thing to change.
-Make sure you always try a sample on a blank canvas with no color such as a white cardboard.
- Always check your samples in morning, afternoon and evening light.
Here are a couple colors to try:
Dove White by Benjamin Moore
Balboa Mist by Benjamin Moore
Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball
Dance of the Goddesses by Valspar
Wevet by Farrow & Ball
Dead Salmon by Farrow & Ball
White Opulence by Benjamin Moore
Backdrop by Modern Love
Click here to see a picture of Estie's mouldings.
Click here to see Adele's butcher block.
Favorites:
Quotes:
Adele: " Busyness is what you give your time to and purpose is what you give your heart to."
Estee: "A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, the man who never reads lives only one." - George RR Martin
City:
Adele: New York
Estie: Rome
Girl boss or design crush:
Adele: Bri Emery @designlovefest
Estie: Julia Berolzheimer @juliaberolzheimer
Chavie Bruk is a Chabad shlucha (emissary) leading a Jewish community with her sushi loving husband while raising her five rambunctious kids (who are adopted). Chavie lives in the Wild West where it's winter ALWAYS (or so it feels) all the while seeking a bit of inner peace (ha, what's that?) and doing it while embracing the chaos and enjoying life. Chavie shares her thoughts and musings about motherhood on her blog Clear As Mud.
In this episode, we talk about Chavie's unusual path to motherhood. After discovering that having biological children would not be an option for her, Chavie and her husband embarked on the journey of adoption. We chat about what the process was like and how Chavie mentors other couples in similar situations. Chavie also talks about her experience as a white women of privilege raising her black son in middle of Montana. When talking about difficult topics with her son Menny, Chavie tries to use them as learning opportunities to discuss important themes around race, culture etc. A dedicated mom, Chavie shares some of her favorite parenting resources that encourage mindful parenting.
Favorites:
Quote: "At any given moment we are doing the best that we can and we can do better."
Book:
fiction: The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
non-fiction: The Journey of the Heroic Parent by Brad M. Reedy
Easy Dinner: sushi bowls
Resources discussed in this episode:
You can listen to Dr. Brad Reedy's podcast here.
You can listen to Brené Brown's episode with Harriet Lerner here.
You can purchase Marc Brackett's book here.
You can listen to Marc's interview here.
Rivki Rabinowitz is an interior design trained lifestyle expert, with a strong focus on fitness, wellness, food and fashion. She currently resides as the editor to Family Room by Mishpacha magazine and contributor and copy writer to Family Table by Mishpacha. She uses her award - winning literature background to engage with her audience as well as her interest in the human experience host weekly Live sessions with your favorite female content creators.
In this episode, we talk about Rivki's numerous creative pursuits, her definition of success and how important it is to first figure out the WHY before embarking on any project. Rivki shares her tips for her awesome morning routine but she also stresses the importance of being flexible with any new habit that we take upon ourselves.
She says: "The pressure we put on ourselves to be good at the things we have taken on is often counterproductive and counterintuitive to the purpose of what ever it is we have taken on in the first place." Healthy habits are meant to replenish and nurture us not stress us out even more! So let's go easy on ourselves!
Favorites:
Book: Educated by Tara Westover
Girl Boss : her mom
Quote: "Where there's a will there's a way."
You can find Rivki here.
Rachel's debut novel is A Bend In The Stars. It has been named a New York Times Summer Reading Selection and a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection. It is also a Boston Globe Bestseller. Rachel's second novel, Atomic Anna, is forthcoming from Grand Central (2022).
Rachel is a prolific writer and reviewer for the LA Review of Books, the Tel Aviv Review of Books and DeadDarlings. She is an Honorary Research Associate at the Hadassah-Brandeis Institute and a graduate of GrubStreet’s Novel Incubator. She is also the founder of Debut Spotlight and the Debut Editor at A Mighty Blaze. In a former life she was a hedge fund manager and a spin instructor. She has degrees from Harvard in Business, and Literature and Philosophy. She lives in Brookline, MA.
In this episode, we discuss Rachel's book " A Bend In The Stars."
It is the Summer of 1914 and siblings Miri and Vanya Abramov are both making incredible strides in their careers. Miri is on the verge of becoming one of Russia’s only female surgeons and Vanya, a brilliant physicist, is hoping to solve the final puzzle of Einstein’s elusive theory of relativity. Yet, when Vanya becomes a wanted man the family is forced to flee. But with Russia at war with Germany and the Czar’s informants watching their every move , can they escape and survive the harrowing journey that awaits them?
Favorites:
Book recommendations: The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman, The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman, The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish, If Then: How The Simulmatics Corporation Invented the Future by Jill Lepore
City: Philadelphia, Tel Aviv
Quote: "If I am not for myself who will be for me? But if I am only for myself who am I? If not now when?" - Hillel
One of Rachel's favorite authors is : Ayn Rand
You can follow Rachel here
You can check out Rachel's website here
Best-selling author, consultant, media expert and master clinician, Dr. Joan Rosenberg is a cutting-edge psychologist who is known globally as an innovative thinker, acclaimed speaker and trainer. As a two-time TEDx speaker and member of the Association of Transformational Leaders, she has been recognized for her thought leadership and global influence in personal development. Along with serving as a blogger for Psychology Today, Dr. Rosenberg has been a featured expert in multiple documentaries. She’s been seen on CNN’s American Morning, and ABC, CBS, FOX, PBS and OWN networks; seen in Forbes, Inc. and Women's World and has made appearances on radio interviews in major metropolitan markets. A California-licensed psychologist, Dr. Rosenberg speaks on how to build confidence, emotional strength, and resilience; how to achieve emotional, conversational and relationship mastery; how to integrate neuroscience and psychotherapy; and suicide prevention. An Air Force veteran, she is a professor of graduate psychology at Pepperdine University in Los Angeles, CA. Her latest book, 90 Seconds to a Life you Love: How to Master Your Difficult Feelings to Cultivate Lasting Confidence, Resilience and Authenticity, was released February 2019.
In this episode, we talk about Joan's latest book: 90 Seconds to a Life you Love.
Sadness, shame, helplessness, anger, embarrassment, disappointment, frustration, and vulnerability. In 30 years as a practicing psychologist, Dr. Joan Rosenberg has found that what most often blocks people from success and feeling capable in life is the inability to experience, move through, and handle these 8 unpleasant feelings. Knowing how to deal with intense, overwhelming, or uncomfortable feelings is essential to building confidence, emotional strength, and resilience. Yet when we distract or disconnect from these feelings, we move away from confidence, health, and our desired pursuits, ultimately undermining our ability to fully realize our ambitions. Neuroscientists suggest that the biological lifespan of a feeling, often known first through bodily sensations, lasts approximately 90 seconds. Dr. Rosenberg teaches readers to be aware, consciously lean into, and balance these unpleasant emotions by riding one or more 90-second waves of the bodily sensations. By staying present to these 8 feelings, we cultivate the confidence that we can handle life's challenges and the deep sense we can pursue whatever we want. You can purchase Dr. Joan's book here. You can listen to Dr. Joan's Ted Talks here. You can visit Dr. Joan's website to learn more about her work.
Shternie Wuensch is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Miami, FL and online. She works with individuals, couples and groups, specializing in individual psychotherapy and couples therapy. She is also trained as somatic psychotherapist, the belief that our bodies carry the stories of our life and trauma, and through body awareness and practices we can move towards healing. With her background in chassidic life and psychology she deeply understands the issues of modern relationship and spiritual life.
In this episode, we talk about the process of return and repair that comes every year during the Hebrew month of Elul.
We talk about creating positive change and how important it is to get clear on what it is that we are wanting and then creating practices that support growth in that direction.
We often get caught in old stories and thought patterns that don’t work and we tend to experience familiar emotions such as guilt, despair etc. Once we are aware of our thoughts and we notice and track them then we can create space for choice. We can ask ourselves "what do I want to do here" ? By being present, viewing ourselves with compassion and returning to our "wise minds", we can find the answers within ourselves to support healthy change.
You can find Shternie here
In this episode we mention:
Life Is In The Transitions by Bruce Feiler
Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg, PHD
60 Days by Rabbi Simon Jacobson
The Overstory by Richard Powers
Chani Frankel and Freidel Levin are the owners of Mimulo flower shop and business located in Brooklyn, New York.
Mimulo is a boutique florist with strong feelings about how to celebrate. Chanie and Freidel's focus is event design and florals for weddings and all milestone events. Their goal is to create warmth with clever use of color, florals and intention that expresses the love and welcome you feel to your guests. Drawing from nature and organic design elements Chani and Freidel create natural arrangements that reflect their unique aesthetic. Creating a business that encompasses friendship, family and beauty is the key value for these two creative entrepreneurs.
In this episode, we talk about Chani and Freidel's journey into entrepreneurship and what they have learned along the way. Some valuable pieces of advice are:
- When you feel overwhelmed just do the next right thing for that moment.
-If you are interested in starting a particular business go learn about it, find a mentor and educate yourself on the business angle ( which can often get overlooked in creative fields).
-Consider what your ideal life looks like and then take small steps towards those goals.
-Success as an entrepreneur is being able to create a business that enriches your life.
Favorites:
Book:
Chani - The Art of Communication by Randy Fujishin, The Secret by Rhonda Byrne, Company of One by Paul Jarvis
Freidel: The Secret by Dr. Edith Eva Eger
Quote:
Chani: " Think good and it will be good."- The Lubavitcher Rebbe
Freidel: " Bless them, change me."
Girl boss or role model:
Chani: her bubby Rebbetzin Hecht
Freidel: Leandra Medine of Man repeller
You can follow Chani and Freidel here.
Susie Orman Schnall is the author of four novels: WE CAME HERE TO SHINE, THE SUBWAY GIRLS, THE BALANCE PROJECT, and ON GRACE. She grew up in Los Angeles and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania. Her writing has appeared in publications including The New York Times, HuffPo, PopSugar, Writer's Digest, and Glamour and she lives in New York with her husband and their three sons.
In this episode, we talk about Susie's latest novel "We Came Here to Shine". Susie discusses the inspiration for her characters as well as why she chose to write about the New York World's Fair. Susie's characters are strong and resilient women who fight against the constraints that society puts on them. We talk about how women are evolving and slowly changing the status quo.
Additionally, Susie shares the reason she started The Balance Project where she has interviewed over 175 women on how they manage family, careers, friendships etc. Susie found that there is no "secret sauce" to juggling it all and it really comes down to prioritizing one's time and values.
Favorites:
Quote: " What is is you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" - Marie Oliver
"If you want to sing out, sing out." - Cat Stevens
Book: Becoming by Michelle Obama
Untamed by Glennan Doyle
City: Paris
Role model: Michelle Obama
You can find Susie here
You can purchase her latest novel here
Jill Sharfman NC, is a board-certified holistic nutritionist living with her family in Los Angeles. She is the co-host along with Dr. Andrea Moskowitz of the nutrition podcast “Let My People Eat.” On each episode Jill helps to demystify confusing talk about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle while keeping kosher. The podcast is available on iTunes, Spotify, GooglePlay and at https://letmypeopleeat.com. Follow her on Instagram @jill_sharfman for more information and on Facebook @letmypeopleeatpodcast. What to eat and what not to eat? That is a question that many of us struggle with. Whether it is pescatarian, paleo, vegan or vegetarian the options are numerous and the various messages delivered through our culture can be immensely confusing. Jill’s answer is remarkably simple: eat what works for your body. We can start to eat more intuitively by noticing how we feel after we eat thus being more mindful of which foods affect our digestion, our moods and our energy levels. It’s time to take the fear and guilt out of food and focus on health and well being. Rather than restrict ourselves we can add healthier options such as more water, more veggies and more color into our meals.
Favorites:
Book: Prescription for Natural Cures by James F. Balch M.D.
Quote: " Not my circus not my monkeys."
Easy meal: Sheet pan dinner
To learn more about eating disorders in the Orthodox Jewish community click here.
Chava Floryn is a writer, an award winning filmmaker, actress, a singer/ songwriter and advocate. With over 65 short films and 2 documentaries under her belt, Chava's films have been featured across the globe in festivals such as The Jewish Film Festival, The Museum of Tolerance theater, The Ashkelon Film Festival, Hollywood Reel Film Festival and the Film Festival Mediterranean.
As a performer, Chava has traveled across the US with "The Search," a one woman show that included her original music and films from a series she created for Nationlight Productions where she attempted to answer the question, "What is the meaning of life?" As a writer, Chava's articles and op-ed's have been featured in The Jewish Journal, The Algemeiner Journal and The Huffington Post. She's been featured on shows like "The Dr. Phil Show", as well as on a Talk show pilot created by Harvey Levin of TMZ. Together with her husband of 25 years, they lead the young professional congregation for Beth Jacob synagogue in Beverly Hills.
Dina Hurwitz is the Chabad Rebbetzin to Rabbi Yitzi, an inspirational writer and spiritual guide who was diagnosed with ALS in 2013. Dina is a motivational speaker and a world renowned personality who continually writes on the subject of harnessing strength and spirit in the face of coping with challenge.
In this episode, we talk about working though grief in order to get to the other side. Chava and Dina both stress the importance of acknowledging pain and suffering in order to heal. By ignoring difficult emotions we are essentially prolonging our suffering. Only once we give ourselves the grace and compassion to sit with our grief and fully experience it are we able to move on. Mourning in of itself is not the goal rather, mourning as a path to healing and personal growth is the ultimate objective.
You can follow Chava on:
Chava's blog: Thelma & Louise
You can follow Dina on:
Dina's blog: The Caffeinated Thinker
Angela Himsel’s writing has appeared in TheNew York Times, The Jewish Week, Forward, Lilith and elsewhere.Her column Angetevka” on Zeek.net American won two American Jewish Press Association Awards. Angela holds a BA from Indiana University, which included two years at The Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and an MFA from The City College of New York.
She grew up the seventh of eleven children in rural southern Indiana in a fundamentalist, doomsday, Christian faith. She converted to Judaism and lives in New York City. A River Could Be a Tree traces that journey.
In this episode, we talk about Angela's memoir: A River Could Be A Tree. Angela shares her experience growing up in an evangelical branch of Christianity - the Worldwide Church of God.
Strict adherence to the church’s tenets, which forbade make-up, medicine, and other demonic influences, was the only way for her to receive the Holy Spirit and live forever in God’s Kingdom.
In search of salvation, Angela decided at nineteen to study at The Hebrew University in Jerusalem. But instead of strengthening her faith, she was introduced to a thrilling new world. And she began to think that maybe everything she had been taught was wrong. Ultimately, the connection to God she relentlessly pursued was found in the most unexpected place: a mikvah on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. This devout Christian girl found her own form of salvation—as a practicing Jewish woman.
Favorites:
Book: the Bible, anything by Jane Austen
Quote: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”- Hillel
City: Jerusalem
Role model: her mom
You can find Angela here .
To order or find out more about A River Could Be A Tree check out www.angelahimsel.com
Lori Gottlieb is a psychotherapist and author of the New York Times bestseller Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, which is being adapted as a television series. In addition to her clinical practice, she writes The Atlantic’s weekly “Dear Therapist” advice column and contributes regularly to The New York Times and many other publications. Her recent TED Talk is one of the top 10 most watched of the year. A member of the Advisory Council for Bring Change to Mind and advisor to the Aspen Institute, she is a sought-after expert in media such as The Today Show, Good Morning America, The CBS This Morning, CNN, and NPR’s “Fresh Air.” Her new iHeart Radio podcast, “Dear Therapists,” produced by Katie Couric, will premier this year. Learn more at LoriGottlieb.com or by following her on Twitter @LoriGottlieb1.
In this episode we talk about Lori's work and her best selling book: Maybe You Should Talk To Someone. Lori talks about the importance of making choices that are true to ourselves and that help us lead a more meaningful life. Lori writes about our 100% mortality rate and how keeping that in mind can help us see our lives in a different light. We can examine our priorities and the way we spend our time allowing us to make more considerate and authentic choices.
Favorites:
Book: The Tennis Partner by Abraham Verghese
City: Los Angeles
Role model: Lori's son
Jordana grew up in New York City and worked in city's government Community Affairs and also in tech startups.She founded a hospitality-focused social media business and also co-founded Zero G Kitchen, which operates the first commercial kitchen on the International Space Station. Jordana loves to read and share what she is reading on her instagram @whatsjordanareading She actually reads the books!
In this episode Jordana shares her book recommendations for summer. We talk about our joint love for historical fiction and non fiction (Jordana has some great recommendations in those categories). Additionally, we chat about the Zero G Kitchen which is the first commercial kitchen on the International Space Station. Jordana describes what the experience has been like and shares what yummy food she would like to offer on their menu!
Book recommendations :
Troop 6000 by Nikita Stewart
House of Glass by Hadley Freeman
Lady in Waiting by Anne Glenconner
The Book of Eels by Patrik Svensson
The End of October by Lawrence Wright
Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker
The Chiffon Trenches by Andre Leon Talley
This Is Big by Marissa Meltzer
To learn more about the Zero G oven check out this article.
Leah Siegel is an accomplished professional in the financial industry. She has educated countless families helping them realize their goals and begin dreaming again. She is a highly sought-after speaker and is a mentor to many around the country. She has built a business around helping people reinvent their lives. Leah lives in Valencia, CA with her husband, Rabbi Jay Siegel. She is a mother of 5, and recently became a grandmother.
You can find Leah @leahsiegel7
In this episode we talk all about money and our beliefs and behaviors around it. Leah's goal is to empower women through money and to encourage them to take control of their finances. We discuss the six steps to financial freedom ( 1- budgeting 2- managing debt 3-creating an emergency fund 4- purchasing protection 5- asset accumulation 6- estate preservation) and we explore each step in depth. Leah also dives into some of the most common money fears and mistakes that women make.
Favorites:
Book: 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class: The Thought Processes, Habits and Philosophies of the Great Ones by Steve Siebold
Quote: " She silently stepped out of the race that she never wanted to be in, found her own lane and proceeded to win."
"Tough times don't last, tough people do."
Girl Boss: Mel Robbins
Resources:
A great podcast to check out
A great book to read here
Lynda Cohen Loigman grew up in Longmeadow, MA. She received a B.A. in English and American Literature from Harvard College and a J.D. from Columbia Law School. Her debut novel, The Two-Family House, was a USA Today bestseller and a nominee for the Goodreads 2016 Choice Awards in Historical Fiction. Her second novel, The Wartime Sisters, was selected as a Woman's World Book Club pick and a Best Book of 2019 by Real Simple Magazine. She is currently at work on her third novel.
You can find Lynda at www.lyndacohenloigman.com
In this episode we talk about Lynda's two books The Two Story House and The Wartime Sisters. Lynda talks about her creative writing process involving the alternating narrative between characters thus showcasing the character's unique way of speaking and thinking.
As a child, Lynda was fascinated by the stories that her mother and aunts shared about living in Brooklyn. After practicing law for ten years Lynda decided to follow her passion and write. Using the stories she heard as a child, Lynda writes about women, and in particular sisters and sister in laws and the complex dynamic that often exists in those relationships.
Favorites:
Book: Saints for All Occasions by J. Courtney Sullivan
City: Paris
Quote: "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent"- Eleanor Roosevelt
Girl boss: her daughter
You can purchase Lynda's book here.
You can find out more about Emily Schuman's initiative here.
Eda Schottenstein is a mother of four, wife to a serial entrepreneur, and self-proclaimed ‘research-buff’. Her mission is to educate women on the power of personal transformation. Drawing from her lived experience and graduate studies in Psychology, Mental Health, and ADD Coaching, she has created a platform devoted to women who support each other in finding greater focus, peace, and a better self-image, all the while balancing life with multiple roles.
You can find her at Multirolewoman.com
Rivkah Krinsky is a certified health coach based in Brooklyn, NY with clients around the globe. She offers guidance and expertise in holistic healthy living. Through her program "Revive with Rivkah", she has empowered and nurtured many people to reach their personal health goals and find healthy balance in a doable, sustainable way, making it a lifestyle.
Through her own life changing journey she gives lectures and workshops to women of all ages and stages in life, inspiring positive healthy change. On her page you'l find motivation to empower and recipes to inspire a healthy lifestyle.
You can find Rivkah at www.revivewithrivkah.com
On this episode of Boss Maidel we discuss the mind, body and soul connection. Eda and Rivkah are big believers in the idea that in order to thrive one needs to feel whole mentally, spiritually and physically. Through proper nutrition, movement, healthy habits, prayer etc, we can nourish all those aspects of ourselves. Both Rivkah and Eda share their personal struggles and how they used those struggles as a catalyst for change and self growth. We talk about working through shame, imposter syndrome and holding ourselves accountable in order to achieve our dreams.
Favorites:
Book:
Eda: The Gifts Of Imperfection by Brené Brown , Towards A Meaningful Life by Simon Jacobson
Rivkah: Daring Greatly by Brené Brown, G-d Of Our Understanding by Rabbi Shais Taub
Dinner:
Eda: Grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and guacamole
Rivkah: London broil marinated and then grilled or broiled
Rivkah likes to have a dinner plate that is made up off: 1/2 veggies, 1/4 protein, 1/4 carbs.
Role Model:
Eda: Oprah Winfrey
Rivkah: Ivanka Trump, Rivkah's aunt Shainy New
Quote:
Eda: "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent" by Eleanor Roosevelt
Rivkah: " Everything can be taken from man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms-to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way. by Viktor E. Frankl
Dr. Bat-Sheva Lerner Maslow is double board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology. She is a reproductive endocrinologist and the Director of Research at Extend Fertility, where she specializes in counseling women about their fertility and options for fertility preservation. In addition, Dr. Maslow provides the full spectrum of infertility care at Extend Fertility and Premium Health Center. Dr. Maslow lectures and writes on the intersection of halakha and reproduction, and is often called upon as an adviser for questions related to hilkhot niddah. She serves as the Director of Medical Education for the North American Yoatzot Halacha Program and sits on the founding board of directors of the Jewish Orthodox Women's Medical Association (JOWMA).
Dr. Maslow graduated magna cum laude from Barnard College with a BA in History before attending the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where she received an MD with distinction and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. Dr. Maslow completed residency training in Obstetrics & Gynecology at the University of Pennsylvania and sub-specialty training in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at the University of Connecticut, where she also completed a master’s degree in clinical and translational research. On this episode of Boss Maisel, we discuss Dr. Maslow's various roles as a wife, mother, doctor and educator as well as how being an orthodox jew has enabled her to better understand and facilitate conversations and initiatives involving Jewish law and medicine. Dr. Maslow gets candid about the often difficult task of juggling work and motherhood and finding like minded women in her community who share the same struggles. She is very active in JOWMA an organization dedicated to advancing the careers of Orthodox Jewish Women physicians. Favorites: Book: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley Easy dinner: pasta Role model: her mom You can find Dr. Maslow @blmaslowmd
Dr. Lizzy Weisinger is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Elite Psychological Services in Los Angeles. Her private practice provides therapy individual, couples, and family. Dr. Lizzy is passionate about mental health and enjoys assisting people in making deep, meaningful changes in their lives. When Dr. Lizzy is not in the office, she enjoys a good cup of coffee, family time, spending time outdoors, and learning new things.
On this episode of Boss Maidel, we discuss the various emotions that one can be feeling during our current situation. Whether it is anxiety, grief, a deep sense of loneliness etc. Dr. Lizzzy shares tangible tools and tips that can help us process our various emotions. Citing numerous research based findings, Dr. Lizzy talks about the importance of gratitude, radical acceptance and how one can adopt a mindset of post traumatic growth. Even the busiest mom can benefit from Dr. Lizzy's 30 second rule, which can help anyone regain their focus and sense of calm.
Favorites:
Book: Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Place to unwind: Lake Tahoe, CA
Role model: her mom
You can find Dr. Lizzie at www.Elite-Psych.com
Resources:
To learn more about Dr. Kristen Neff and self compassion visit www.selfcompassion.org
Click here and here to read more about post traumatic growth.
To learn more about cultivating resilience click here.
Tips for managing anxiety:
Click here for a list of calming activities that you can even enjoy doing with your kids.
Click here to read about general coping strategies.
To learn more about my favorite method to unwind (which is practicing QiGong) click here.
To start a daily meditation practice that can take minutes click here.
To start and maintain a positive new habit click here.
Melody Aziz is the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Fountain of Kindness. She was inspired to start the organization in honor of her two children and all Jewish children.
"Fountain of Kindness is my way of teaching my children about giving back to the community, spreading kindness and encouraging others to do so too."
Melody is responsible for the vision, strategy and fundraising of the organization. She oversees all operations of the organization and is an integral part of the success of its growth. Melody attended Queens College where she obtained a dual Bachelors in Speech & Language Pathology & Sociology.
On this episode of Boss Maidel, we talk about Melody's non profit organization Fountain of Kindness. Melody started the organization as a means for people to help out those in need and it has grown to include hundreds of participants.From delivering groceries and meals to fundraising for needy families, Fountain of Kindness helps so many individuals and families in difficult situations. Having battled cancer, Melody understood the importance of support and social interaction that one needs when going through a challenging a time.
We chat about how her personal experience with cancer gave Melody a fresh new perspective on life. Melody strongly believes that challenges bring out our inner strength and resilience.
Favorites:
City: Miami
Easy Dinner: shake 'n bake
Role model: her mom
You can find Melody @fountainofkindness
Previously, the Senior Art Director for Spring, a shopping app and website that carries over 1500+ brands, Rudsak, a high-end fashion brand and Aldo Shoes, a leading international footwear and accessories retailer, Rebecca gained knowledge and experience in a fast-paced retail environment. With a formal multidisciplinary training in graphic design, industrial design, and web design, Rebecca is constantly nurturing the right side of her brain through research and travel.
Rebecca is also the co-founder of alcove, a series of intimate conversations with award winning podcasts. alcove features visionaries leaving their mark on the universe through their talent, boldness and appetite for making the impossible possible, with humility.
On this episode of Boss Maidel, we talk about Rebecca's start at Aldo shoes where she worked as a creative director. A quick learner and team player Rebecca was able to wear many hats during that period and is grateful for the mentoring and camaraderie that she experienced while working for the company. Emphasizing hard work and the ability to be flexible when envisioning various brands aesthetics, Rebecca has since worked with Rudsak, Goodee, Vaaris etc.
Additionally, we talk about the difficulties Rebecca experienced transitioning into motherhood (Rebecca's son Lev was born with multiple heart defects that led them to find a rare genetic disease.) and her current situation which Rebecca has learned to take day by day. Focusing on what she can control, making a difference, connecting with others and creating conversations are some of the key values that Rebecca lives by.
Favorites:
City: Tokyo
Book: Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley, David Kelley
Heart Talk by Cleo Wade
Quote: "Work hard and be nice to people" "Focus on the things you can control"
Girl Boss: Cleo Wade
You can find Rebecca at: www.rebeccachriqui.com
Rivky Itzkowitz is the founder of Impact Fashion, a line of size inclusive modest special occasion wear. She started Impact Fashion after being frustrated at the lack of modest clothing options that actually fit and decided to use her skills as a couture trained dressmaker and pattern maker to create the clothes she could never buy. Every item she designs is available in sizes 2-24 and can be found at impactfashionnyc.com. On this episode of Boss Maidel, we talk about how Rivky parlayed her love of fashion and sewing into a successful business. A key factor in Rivky's success is her ability to understand draping, various body shapes and how certain cuts can be more flattering then others. We also discuss Rivky's podcast Be Impactful where she interviews women who are making changes in their world. Learning from mistakes, managing expectations and being open to learning new skill sets are some of the points that we discuss.
Favorites:
Books: Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, any book by Malcolm Gladwell
Podcasts: How I Built This with Guy Raz ( NPR), Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard,The Unofficial Shopify Podcast
Dinner: Takeout or sheet pan dinners
You can find Rivky @impact.fashion.nyc
Leah Loksen is a freelance hairstylist and wig stylist based out of Brooklyn, NY since 2009. Leah specializes in bridal hair and special event hair as well as a master wig specialist.
Fusing art and hair, Leah formulates the best look for each bride to have a distinct, individualized, cohesive look with her gown and veil of choice. Leah ensures that each bride's unique beauty and features are maximized for her big day.
With a curated selection of top quality wigs, Leah cuts, styles and customizes each wig so that every individual indeed feels as though they are wearing their own "hair." Leah cuts dry to see exactly how much weight to remove and texture to add.
On this episode of Boss Maidel , we talk about the importance of delegating and setting boundaries in our business. Leah shares her experiences in trying to be everything to everyone and how that left her feeling depleted and resentful. She has since implemented a whole different system in her business that allows her to be more productive and creative. We also chat about all things hair related: color, texture, what inspires Leah's creations etc.
Favorites:
Book: Drop The Ball by Tiffany Dufu
Easy Dinner: Trader Joe's pizza dough
Quote: The Man In The Arena by Theadore Roosevelt
You can find Leah @salonleah
An early childhood educator for over 13 years, Yehudis has always cared deeply for the social, emotional, physical, spiritual, and psychological development of children and adults alike, and believes in the new generation’s ability to bring our world to the next level, with the help of consciously-adept adults. Yehudis has a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education and is extensively trained in Conscious Discipline. She is the Owner & Operator of ImaginED Educational Consulting & Parent Coaching. Through her business, she goes into schools and homes and helps teachers, directors, and parents become the best they can be. She is also an advocate for all people and spends whatever spare time she has helping abused women. Yehudis has 4 young children and has been happily married for 10 years.
On this episode of Boss Maidel, we talk about the popular program " Conscious Discipline" and how we can train ourselves to be aware of our emotions at any given moment as a parent. Treating ourselves with compassion and kindness, learning from our mistakes and modeling this behavior to our children are some of the key points mentioned.
Favorites:
Quote: " A fall is never final unless you stay on the ground"- Marie Forleo
( Also mentioned is poet Jasmin Kaur)
Book: Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
Catch and Kill by Ronan Farrow
Yossel Rakover Speaks to G-d by Zvi Kolitz
Parenting resources: Easy to Love, Difficult to Discipline by Becky A. Bailey, the podcast Unruffled by Janet Lansbury
You can find Yehudis at @imaginedcoach
At 21 years old, Amanda was diagnosed with Cancer. Forced to suddenly put her life on hold, Amanda had to come to grips with a new and frightening situation.
Through her journey, she slowly became aware of the power of the Neshama- Jewish soul- and witnessed daily how much light can come from a seemingly dark place.
Over a decade later, Amanda is a proud observant Jewish women, passionate about empowering others.
What you will hear in this episode:
- Amanda talks about having a childhood where she lacked for nothing yet she always felt like she was missing something. At 17 years old, her friend passed away in a car accident and that was the catalyst for Amanda taking her spiritual search to a new level.
It was at the March of the Living that Amanda met Rabbi Pinny Gniwisch who changed her life forever. Amanda describes her first interaction with Rabbi Pinny as having an Oprah “aha” moment.
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At 21 Amanda was diagnosed with cancer and her first intuition was to call Rabbi Pinny. She spent Shabbat with his family and started keeping Shabbat from there on. During her ordeal Amanda kept asking herself what is my purpose in all of this? She started an organization called "Live, Laugh and Learn" raising money and bringing hope to other Cancer patients.
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As a proudly observant wife and mother, Amanda travels all over the world sharing her incredible story and inspiring many women. Amanda shares her tips on cultivating spirituality and positivity in our lives.
Favorites:
Favorite book: Toward A Meaningful life by Rabbi Simon Jacobson
City: Jerusalem
Easy meal: eggs
Role model: Amanda's mom
Quote: "If you change the way you look at things the things you look at change."
You can find Amanda at @amandaspiroshares.
As cooking has always been her passion, in 2004, Naomi started her own kosher personal chef business, The Aussie Gourmet, to pursue cater weekly and Shabbat/Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities and beyond — including Alaska and Israel. Naomi is often sought after to give cooking demonstrations and produce kosher Chopped competitions throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan as well as across the country, where she shares her immense enthusiasm for food.
Naomi has her own cooking show on Kosher.com called Sunny Side Up. Naomi also hosts her own weekly show, “Table for Two with Naomi Nachman” on The Nachum Segal Network – which covers all food-related topics. Naomi has also been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, a cooking CD and a variety of newspaper articles covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs.
In 2017 Naomi published her debut cook Perfect For Pesach with Artscroll.
Naomi published her second cookbook Perfect Flavors in November, 2018 Artscroll.
Naomi currently lives with her husband and children in Woodmere, NY.
What you will hear in this episode:
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Naomi talks about her early start in the food world. Growing up in Australia where her parents had a catering business, Naomi was exposed to delicious and fresh ingredients. When she visited Israel for the first time, Naomi was amazed at the abundance and availability of great kosher food.
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One piece of advice that Naomi offers listenners is the importance of networking to grow one's business. We can take advantage of the built in support system that our communities offer to engage and network with others.
-Naomi discussed the process of writing her cookbooks. Her goal was to provide easy to follow recipes in a variety of categories and to expose the reader to new flavors and ingredients. Naomi credits her extensive traveling in inspiring her culinary creations.
Favorites:
City: Sydney, Australia
Kitchen gadget: steel wide food peeler, sharp knives
Spice: cumin
Book: All For The Boss by Ruchama Shein
Girl Boss: Miriam Pascal, Melinda Strauss, Chanie Apfelbaum
You can find out more about Naomi at @naominachman
You can donate here to support the Australian wildfire relief efforts.
This episode is brought to you by Chic Boards LA .
Enter code Bossm10 for 10% off your order.
Elizabeth Savetsky is a wife, mother and accessories blogger who uses her platform to advocate for causes that are close to her heart. Through her blog and social media channels,Elizabeth shares her journey of fashionable motherhood, often featuring her two young daughters, budding fashionistas, Stella and Juliet.
She is a vocal activist for Israel and the Jewish people and works with numerous non-profit, philanthropic movements to support her people and her homeland.
Elizabeth travels frequently to give talks on infertility and pregnancy loss, two topics with which she is intimately familiar.She most recently founded the "Real Love, Real Loss"movement on social media to destigmatize pregnancy loss for women on a global level.Her mission is to empower people to stand up for what they believe in and live a life of kindness and fulfillment.
What you will hear in this episode:
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We talk about about Elizabeth's early start in fashion and how she grew up around pageants in Texas which highly influenced her maximalist style. After studying journalism and a brief stint in education, Elizabeth got a job working for a fashion PR company and the rest was history!
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We chat about the beginning of The Accessories Expert Blog and how Elizabeth originally started it as a creative outlet. Once it started to grow rapidly, Elizabeth made the decision to transition to her blog full time. A risky move but one that paid off.
-Elizabeth has used her platform to raise awareness for infertility and pregnancy loss. We discuss the importance of reaching out to numerous women on such an important topic. A fiercley proud Jew, Elizabeth also uses her social media platform to support Israel, denounce anti semitism and encourage others to do the same. Her philosophy is everyone is responsible for creating change .
Favorites:
Book: Listening to God by Rabbi Shlomo Riskin
City: New York
Girl Boss: Liz Taylor
You can find Elizabeth @elizabethsavetsky
This episode is sponsored by @chicboardsla
Simply enter code Bossm10 for 10% off your order.
Aimee Baron, M.D. is the founder and director of I Was Supposed To Have A Baby, which is a social media platform that supports Jewish families struggling to have a child. It provides a supportive space for families who are going through infertility, pregnancy loss, infant loss, surrogacy or adoption, in addition to connecting those families to resources in the Jewish community.
Dr. Baron was formerly the Director of Innovation and Growth at Nechama Comfort, and has also worked as an Attending Pediatrician in the Newborn Nursery and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital before taking a leave of absence after her third miscarriage.
Dr. Baron lives in Riverdale, NY, with her husband and five children.
What you will hear in this episode:
-Aimee shares her personal experience with unexplained secondary infertility and multiple pregnancy losses. She noticed that on a communal level ( the Jewish Orthodox community) we were not talking about these difficult scenarios nor was there a greater awareness and sensitivity shown for couples in these painful situations.
-We talk about Aimee's goal which is support couples going through this difficult journey by connecting them with resources and facilitating their involvement in a greater community of people who can share their stories and help one another. She is also passionate about raising awareness to those who are unfamiliar with these situations since most people will likely be affected or will know some who will affected by these issues.
- We discuss the many myths often associated with secondary infertility and infertility. Aimee stresses the importance of being extremely sensitive when it comes to offering sympathy and advice. Offering unconditional support vs unsolicited advice and allowing an individual to sit with their grief are just a few of the key points that we discuss.
Favorites:
Quote: "Done is better then perfect."
Easy meal: pasta , cheese and sauce
Book: anything by Daniel Silva
Girl Boss: Rivkah Slonim
Sheva Kastel is a personal shopper and personal stylist. Sheva is also trained in determining someone’s season/ color palette using the seasonal color analysis method. This method factors in a person's skin tone, eye and hair color to determine which colors most suit them. Sheva trained with Rochele Hirsch using the Suzanne Caygil method. Sheva’s goal is to help women feel confident when getting dressed. Incorporating budget friendly finds with timeless pieces Sheva is of the philosophy that fashion should be approachable, attainable and most importantly fun. What you will hear in this episode: -Sheva and I discuss the idea that sometimes impulsivity can be a good thing. Rather then letting fear determine her course of actions, Sheva started her business by writing one message on her community WhatsApp group offering her services as a personal stylist/shopper. -We discuss the importance of women embracing their own unique style. Sheva is a big proponent of women getting their seasonal palette done as it simplifies the shopping process . Women tend to glow and need less makeup when wearing their colors. Most importantly the experience tends to be an empowering one as women who are usually overwhelmed by a myriad of clothing options are now given a streamlined guide to help them look their best. - As women get busier and busier, we are looking for ways to outsource some of our responsibilities. Hiring a personal shopper /stylist has helped so many women incorporate fashion into their otherwise full and busy lives. Sheva works with many women who need help in pulling together the numerous pieces they already own. Being budget conscious and savvy on how to incorporate high/low looks, Sheva helps women cultivate a wardrobe unique to their personal style and aesthetic. -We talk about self care and how important it is to check in with ourselves and notice how we are feeling. By allowing ourselves to be fully present with our feelings and acknowledging what we need we are better equipped to deal with more challenging/ difficult emotions. Taking short breaks, seeking out some stillness etc. these little habits can have a huge impact on our emotional and physical health. This can be a challenging for us to embrace as the predominant culture values being productive over being healthy/happy. Favorites: Books: Ninety Seconds To A Life You love by Joan I. Rosenberg Big Magic by Liz Gilbert Careergasm by Sarah Vermunt City: Sydney, Australia Easy Dinner: chicken curry drumsticks from Millenial Kosher Style icons: Iris Apfel, Danielle Bernstein of We Wore What ( You can find out about the documentary on Iris Apfel here.) Sheva can be reached at @stylebysheva
Chumi Borenstein is passionate about raising awareness for mental health. Originally from Scotland, Chumi currently lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two children. Between juggling her roles as wife, mom and student ( Chumi is studying business administration) Chumi is very active on Instagram. She offers her followers numerous tips on budgeting and managing one's finances as well as delicious recipes and freezer friendly ideas. Chumi loves to read and bake and is always happy to share recommendations. You can find Chumi at the @icedlife
What you will hear in this episode:
-Chumi discusses how she uses Instagram as a catalyst for connection.She originally started using it as a means to meet other people when she moved to New York but has since shifted her focus in using it to raise awareness for mental health issues.
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Chumi talks about a turning point in her life when she decided to go see a therapist. Chumi is candid about the bumpy journey one can face when getting help for anxiety and depression and stresses the importance of finding the right therapist.
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We talk about the pros and cons of medication and how crucial they can be for those suffering from depression and anxiety when used in conjunction with seeing a therapist.
Favorites:
Quote: "Strength is the most painful experience I have been through."
Book: American Sniper by Chris Kyle , Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
City: Edinburgh
Girl Boss: Sarah Lasry, Naomi Nachman
You can find Chumi at @theicedlife
This episode is sponsored by Fleishigs magazine. Get 25% off your subscription by entering code BOSSMAIDEL at check out.
Leba Sherman is a mom of three trying to raise awareness for people with Stargardt Disease. After being diagnosed with the disease, Leba started her fashion company Patched by Elle to help raise money for research and awareness. Passionate about educating people, Leba is on a mission to inspire others to live their life to the fullest.
What you will hear in this episode:
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When was the last time that you really though about your vision?Did you know that we use our brain to fill in the missing blanks when we have trouble seeing? In this episode, Leba Sherman shared her story about being diagnosed with Stargardt Disease (a rare disease that causes macular degeneration).
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Leba candidly talks about her initial shock and grief at receiving this sudden diagnoses. She also shares what it is like to live day to day with impaired vision. Despite the many obstacles Leba faces, she feels like this diagnoses was a wake up call to really live her life to the fullest. Grateful for the what she is able to see and do, Leba is passionate about educating others and inspiring them to be present and grateful.
-We chat about Leba's exciting new venture Patched by Elle. Always a fan of fashion, Leeba creates fabulous customs demin jackets with part of the proceeds going to research on Stargardt diesease.
-You can read more about Leba's journey here.
Favorites:
form of self care: yoga
city: Los Angeles
quote: " Life is a journey not a destination"
You can reach Leba @patched_by_elle
This episode is sponsored by Fleishigs magazine. Get 25% off your subscription by entering code BOSSMAIDEL.
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Shternie Wuensch is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Miami, FL and online. She works with individuals, couples and groups, specializing in individual psychotherapy and couples therapy. She is also trained as somatic psychotherapist, the belief that our bodies carry the stories of our life and trauma, and through body awareness and practices we can move towards healing.With her background in chassidic life and psychology she deeply understands the issues of modern relationship and spiritual life.
What you will hear in this episode:
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Shternie talks about her journey in becoming a therapist. She started out as a Chabad emissary/rebbetzin , a role that enabled her to form deep, personal connections with others. Her experience with infertility led her to work on her own healing through her loss and pain and paved the way for her career as a therapist.
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Shternie talks about her training as a somatic therapist. Since her struggle was very body oriented Shternie felt that her healing had to be from a more body oriented perspective. We discuss the idea that the body can hold on to trauma and experiences and therefore tuning into the body can be a powerful tool in the healing process.
-Do you ever feel completely overwhelmed or anxious? By simply tuning into our body and asking"what does my body need now?" we can get a clearer grasp on what we need to give ourselves. That can be rest, reflection, connecting with others etc. Our bodies will always tell us what we are feeling if we can just quiet all the external noise and gently tune in.
-We discuss why patience is such a crucial trait in our lives. Part of having faith is understanding that things unfold at the exact time that they are meant to happen. Letting go ,trusting the process and understanding that if it's meant to be it will happen are important components in living a healthy and spiritual life. Each soul comes down with a soul imprint and a soul mission, we each need to trust our path.
Favorites:
Quote: "Accept what is happening as if you have chosen it" Eckhart Tolle
Books: When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron, The moment of Lift by Melinda Gates
City: Paris
Role model: Melinda Gates
Easy dinner: salmon with roasted veggies
www.shterniewuensch.com
@shternie_wuensch_therapy
Chany Rosen is the CEO of Cavalry Associates, an expediting firm located in Brooklyn, NY. In the 3 years since Cavalry's debut, Chany has managed to take the expediting world by storm positioning herself as a leader in the industry. With a speed that shocked even herself, Chany has grown her business beyond her wildest expectations. She now houses a staff of 20 in her 2 story office in the center of Flatbush. Chany is the proud mom to 5 beautiful daughters and is very conscious about maintaining her work/home balance. She is also known for her wild obsession with Chanel shoes. What you will hear in this episode: -Chany talks about her job as an expeditor and how she is a natural problem solver. One of her favorites parts of her job is brainstorming solutions in order to get properties approved.The bigger the challenge the more Chany is excited to tackle it! - We chat about the transition from work to home. Chany is candid about the struggle many experience face when coming home from work and facing the particularly challenging hours of homework, dinner, bath time etc. It’s a constant work in progress to be present, patient and face reality particularly after the surge of adrenaline that work can bring.
-Chany talks about her power hour: her early morning routine of waking up at 4:00 am. She enjoys the peace and quiet and loves to get a head start on the day.
-We talk about being "in the flow". How it's completely okay to be unabashedly proud and passionate about your work. As women we are often apologetic about our work ethic and success , acknowledging what we truly love to do rather then what we feel we should do not only benefits ourselves but those around us.
Favorites:
City: New York
Book: The 10x Rule by Grant Cardone
Role Model: her father
Quote:"If you want it to happen you must make it happen, if you let it happen you won't like what happens."
You can find Chany at: @chanyrosen1
- We talk about Being in the flow- being unabashed about absolutely loving work embracing what you truly love unapolegetically
Margalit Lankry is a seasoned interior designer working in the industry for over 20 years. Creativity is her passion and interior design is her medium. She believes great design has the power to elevate the individual behind it all.
What you will hear in this episode:
- What do you do when you face a feeling inside yourself that you don’t like such as insecurity, envy etc ? How brave or courageous would you be to confront it and then change it?
-We discuss the importance of finding your personal style. Interior design is all about bringing out your vision and surrounding yourself with things that bring you joy.
-We chat about the intention behind the Whatsapp chat for interior designers that Margalit started. She created it out of a desire to eliminate the competitiveness often associated with the design world. Margalit essentially created a space where women could connect and support one another.
- We talk about turning a negative situation into a positive experience. Margalit recommends working with who you are and using your strengths, personality and creativity to uplift a difficult situation.
Favorites:
Favorite way to unwind: podcasts
Book: anything motivational
Design element: color
Store: Barnes & Nobles
You can find Margalit at @margalitlankrydesigns or at www.margalitlankrydesigns.com
Bari Mitzmann is a wife, mother of two, and content creator who partners with women of all backgrounds to provide personal growth support. Bari believes the antidote to many 21st century problems facing modern women is more meaningful connection. To that end, she has left a career in teaching and outreach to reach out to others outside of traditional learning settings. Her content on www.barianna.com , the Woman of Valor Podcast and her Instagram @barianna aims to facilitate conversations where women can feel safe, heard, and encouraged.
Franciska is a composer, producer and podcast host raised in Moscow. She creates her masterpieces by weaving eternal words of prayer into soulful guitar melodies. Raised in religious school and in musical academy, Franciska's compositions reflect her commitment to bridging both worlds.
Currently, Franciska is producing her 6th album from her own recording studio and offers her music production services to others. She performs and runs “Karaoke-Studio”, a latest trend at Bat-Mitzvahs. She hosts “The Franciska Show” Podcast, interviewing Jewish women in the arts and entertainment world. The podcast is launching a new 'special segment' interviewing survivors of abuse in the Jewish community. The goal is to provide a safe space for all to share their stories.
You can find Franciska at www.franciskamusic.com
Yael Trusch is the creator of the bilingual Jewish lifestyle Blog and weekly Podcast for women, Jewish Latin Princess. She is an influencer, communicator and promoter of ‘a joyful, richer Jewish life,’ inspiring women around the globe with her positivity and colorful persona.
Yael began a healthy obsession with Judaism while in college, which took her to adopt an increasingly observant lifestyle. Her message to Jewish women is always honest, approachable and relatable, profound yet practical.
As a wife and mother of four children, Yael is dedicated to building a Jewish home, which provides real-life content for her blog, podcast and new courses for women. She also authors a monthly column The Jewish Herald Voice “Defining Jewish Women,” and contributes regularly to TheJewishWoman.org. Yael has a B.A. in Economics and International Relations from Tufts University, and an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business. A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Yael has since globe trotted from New York to Argentina to Chile to China to Israel and back.
You can find Yael at www.jewishlatinprincess.com.
What you will hear in this episode:
-We discuss the idea of perfectionism. How perfectionism is ultimately unattainable and therefore detrimental to our emotional health.
-How has motherhood changed us? We chat about finding an identity outside of motherhood, learning to be present and enjoying life's simplicities, learning to rely less on ourselves and more on G-d, cultivating and honing our mother's intuition etc.
- We share our experiences with meditation and whether it has helped us or not. Some of us prefer a moving meditations such as yoga but we all agree that some form of meditative action can be super beneficial for a busy mom.
Favorites:
Book:
Bari- anything by Brene Brown or Rachel Hollis
Franciska- Getting More by Stuart Diamond
Yael- Positivity Bias by Mendel Kalmenson and Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Quote:
Bari- "In a place where there are no leaders strive to be one".
Franciska: "Action cures fear, start now and correct course along the way".
Yael- "Love and good humor cures everything."
Girl Boss:
Bari- Rabbanit Yemima Mizrachi
Franciska- her mom
Yael- herself
Melinda Strauss is the Founder of the KAVANA Conference, a personal growth conference and self-love movement for Jewish women, and a Certified Optavia coach. With over 8 years of food blogging under her belt, a successful Jewish Food Media business conference in its 7th year of planning, and over 1,000 lives changed through her health coaching practice, Melinda is pursuing the dream that came along unexpectedly. What began as a food blogging hobby has turned into thousands of lives being touched every single day by her motivational messages and personal experiences with her own growth. Her mission is to help other women actualize their own goals and dreams. What you will hear in this episode:
-We discuss Melinda's transition from food blogger to motivational coach and speaker. Melinda is all about living your life with intention and integrity.
-Why do we self sabotage? Should we be looking at fear differently? Melinda describes FEAR as:" false evidence appearing real". How many times have we convinced ourselves that the worst case scenario is likely to happen despite lack of logical evidence? Melinda offers tips and suggestions on how to look at fear differently.
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We chat about our mutual love of Rachel Hollis and her brilliant ninety day challenge.
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We talk about Melinda's new podcast The KAVANA podcast as well as her exciting new conference.
Favorites:
Book: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
City: Seattle
Girl boss: Rachel Hollis
Quote: "A lazy man does a job twice"
You can find Melinda at www.melindastrauss.com or @therealmelindastrauss
Brocha Chana Metzger was born a tour guide, nature lover and interior designer. A Brooklyn native, this mother and wife resides in Manhattan where she has served as the Shlucha to Chabad of Midtown since 1996. You will find Brocha Chana hosting Shabbat meals and programs for people from all over the world. In her capacity as Shlucha she frequently lectures on Judaic topics specializing in the history of the Jews of New York. She uses her creativity to design the beautiful Bryant Park Sukkah, Chabad event decor and publications. Her instablog @gothamfairytales has been growing in popularity since starting in the spring of 2018. Her commentary gives her a platform to share her nature photography, city secrets, history, Catskills wanderings, home decor, as well as her inside knowledge of the local interior design scene. Brocha Chana's husband and children are occasionally willing participants in her adventures. While they have been known to roll their eyes, more often than not they are moved to appreciate and promote her discoveries.
What you will hear in this episode:
-Brocha Chana discusses her early passion for all things design related. She initially though she would pursue a career as a historian or curator. However, when she met her husband he was involved in outreach and she was drawn to the meaningful nature of his work. Thus she began her life as a Chabad shlucha always aiming to incorporate her creative flair to enhance her outreach work.
-We discuss the idea that the sciences, arts etc. are not mutually exclusive to leading a spiritual and religious life. On the contrary, Brocha Chana shares examples of great Jewish leaders and though provokers who where well versed in a plethora of subjects.
- We chat about our favorite interior design trends,shops and tips. Brocha Chana is a big believer that a room should be well dressed ( much like a woman) and should tell of the owner's personality. Collecting, gathering and layering various elements can crate dynamic spaces.
Favorites:
Book: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Interior Designer: Sarah Ruffin Costello,Kit Kemp, Melanie Turner
Shop: Astier de Villatte, John Derian
You can find Brocha Chana @gothamfairytales
Chaya Chanin is one part of the dynamic sister duo called The Frock. Born and raised in Australia, Chaya and Simi share a unique fashion sense influenced by the easy-going surf culture of the beaches of Sydney, and their upbringing in an orthodox Jewish home. In September 2010 they started their business the Frock and have never looked back.
Influenced by their life experiences as mothers, entrepreneurs, and fashion lovers, Chaya and Simi combine a relaxed, easy-to wear vibe with a high-end aesthetic. Chaya lives with her husband and children in Brooklyn NY.
What you will hear in this episode:
-Chaya discusses the start of her business, which beganas a consignment pop up shop. Realizing there was a strong need for modest layering basics, Chaya and Simi created the Signature Slip.
-Chaya discusses the pushback and feedback that she receives from sharing her personal life on Instagram. We talk about the concept of oversharing and yet we never know when we can touch someone with our stories.
-Chaya talks about her experience on MiCDrop and what it felt like leading up to that experience .
- We discuss the idea of mindfully cultivating positivity and a sense of optimism despite experiencing challenges in life.
Favorites:
Fashion icon:Chaya's sister Simi
Frock item: The Marakkesh or the Signature Slip
Book: The Choice by Dr. Edith Eger
Easy Dinner: Ground meat with dates and spices served with a side of chummus.
You can find Chaya at @thefrocknyc
Shifra Klein is the former editor-in-chief at Joy of Kosher with Jamie Geller Magazine and Bitayavon. Together with her husband Shlomo, Shifra recently launched the much talked about Fleishigs magazine.
Each issue of Fleishigs is packed with easy to follow step by step recipes, beautiful photography, conversations and stories about today’s kosher foodies as well as information on exciting new trends, products and restaurants. Shifra lives with her husband, two sons and daughter in New York.
What you will hear in this episode:
- We talk about how print magazine remains ever so relevant to the Kosher consumer since Shabbat is a day where one refrains from electronics. Shifra maintains that in general, in the food industry print magazines and books are on the rise.
-Shifra discusses her vision and goal for the magazine. She wanted a storytelling element as well as informative articles that add value to a reader's knowledge and cooking repertoire.
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Shifra's 3 key ingredients for success are: 1- hard work 2- persistence 3- planning what your success looks like and working towards it .
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We discuss the importance of remaining positive and enjoying the journey, the process, and even the challenges by looking at it as a learning experiences.
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Favorites:
Book: Parenting with Love & Logic by Foster Cline ,MD & Jim Fay, Shifra is also looking forward to Adeena Sussman's new cookbook which should be due shortly
Dinner: Roast chicken and potatoes
City: NYC
Some favorite restaurants: Marani (Georgian cuisine), Boru Boru
You can find Shifra at @shifraklein @fleishigsmag
Beth Ricanati, MD is an award-winning author who has built her career around bringing wellness into women’s everyday lives, especially moms juggling life and children. She practiced medicine at NY-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, the Cleveland Clinic, and now at the Venice Family Clinic. She lives in the Los Angeles area with her family and one challah-loving dog.
What you will hear in this episode:
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How the act of making challah is completely transformative. It forces one to slow down, to be patient ( allowing the yeast to rise) and to be present. It is also a beautiful time for reflection, prayer and connection.
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We talk about how Dr. Beth's background in art taught her to see the larger picture in her patients and to see the stories that these women carried along with them.
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Dr. Beth is a big believer in the medicinal qualities of food.However, she maintains that the key to eating healthy is moderation, using good quality ingredients and enjoying the experiences that food can bring. We are living in a society that is obsessed with restricting and avoiding certain foods but Dr. Beth argues that eating a slice of challah should be an enjoyable, guilt free experience ( substitute challah for any special food or tradition that brings you joy).
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We talk about how often physical ailments are a direct result of what we are experiencing emotionally. Dr. Beth discusses the importance of stress management and how that can be anything from yoga, to horseback riding to making challah!
Favorites:
Quote: "Perfect is the enemy of good"
book: anything by Liz Gilbert
dinner: some variation on a healthy bowl complete with grains, protein and veggies.
city: London, Paris
girl boss: Emma Watson
Dr Beth. can be found @housecallsforwellness
Chana Sufrin is the founder of House of Lancry, a quintessential British brand that celebrates clothing and lifestyle. With an incredible eye for detail and quality, Chana designs and manufactures her pieces in London proudly supporting local businesses. An avid traveller and equestrian, Chana is passionate about bringing hight fashion pieces to her modest clientele. Chana lives with her husband and three children in London.
What you will hear in this episode:
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How Chana started out in interior design and transitioned into the world of fashion
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We discuss all the various factors that go into creating a successful clothing line such as quality control, sustainability, wearability etc.
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Chana get's very candid about the struggles she had when she first moved to England and the journey she went on to find inner happiness
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We talk about how British culture and style are reflected in The House of Lancry brand. Chana loves the energy, pace and creative expression that one can find in the bustling streets of London. Her mission is to take current, high end fashion and translate that into wearable pieces for her modest customers
Favorites:
book: Shoe Dog- Phil Knighteasy
dinner: Spaghetti Bolognese
lipstick or beauty product: Victoria Secret Velvet Matte Cream Lip Stain
go to outfit- House of Lancry slip dress with a blazer
girl boss: Joyce Azria
city: Marakesh, Tuscany, Cape Town
book: Shoe dog- phil knigh
easy dinner: spaghetti Bolognese
lipstick or beauty product:victoria secret velvet stain
go to outfit- slip dress blazer
girl boss: Joyce Azria
city: marakesh, Tuscany, Cape Town
Jamie Geller is the only best-selling cookbook author who wants to get you out of the kitchen – not because she doesn’t love food – but because she has tons to do.
As “The Bride Who Knew Nothing”, Jamie found her niche specializing in fast, fresh, family recipes. Now the "Queen of Kosher" (CBS) and the "Jewish Rachael Ray" (The New York Times), she's the creative force behind JamieGeller.com
Jamie and her hubby live in Israel with their six super kids who give her plenty of reasons to get out of the kitchen - quickly.
You can follow Jamie at @jamiegellar and @jewishbyjamie
What you will hear in this episode:
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How Jamie went from tv producer to cookbook author.
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We discuss the communal pressure to put out lavish meals and our ability to embrace a simpler more streamlined approach where we focus on quality over quantity.
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The key component to great tasting food is finding joy rather then perfection when cooking and entertaining.
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We talk about the myth of the superwoman.
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The importance of spending quality time with your spouse. This is crucial in creating a happy home and setting your kids up for their own healthy relationships.
Favorites:
spice: kosher salt
gadget: tongs
book: Emunah With Love and Chicken Soup by Sara Yoheved Rigler
Rebbetzin Kanievsky- A Legendary Mother to All by Naftali Weinberger
Dr. Miriam A. Knoll, MD DABR is a board-certified radiation oncologist at the John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. Dr Knoll is an Associate Senior Editor for the American Society of Radiation Oncology (ASTRO)'s journal Advances in Radiation Oncology. She is an international invited lecturer speaking about social media in medicine, women in medicine, and medical education. Dr. Knoll has published in many high-impact factor peer reviewed journals. Her writing has been featured in the Huffington Post, ASCO Connection, Mishpacha, Jewish Press, KevinMD.com, among others. She is a Forbes contributor. Dr. Knoll lives with her physician husband and four sons in Woodmere, New York. You can follow her on Twitter @MKnoll_MD and on Instagram @Dr.Mimi.K
In this Episode, Dr. Miriam "Mimi" Knoll shares her advice on living a courageous, whole life. We discuss the idea that we all have choices in just about everything we do. We often are afraid to take a scary leap, try something new or get out of our comfort zone and that is truly what is stoping us from living our most vibrant, happy life. Mimi discusses how she views all her numerous roles (doctor, wife, mother etc.) as one cohesive element and that when a mother is fulfilled and passionate about what she is doing the whole family thrives. I could have chatted with Mimi for hours. She is truly remarkable in all that she has accomplished and continues to do.
(In this episode, we talk about Brooke Castillo and her podcast: The Life Coach School Podcast
Favorites:
Book: Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
Role Model: her mother Dr. Chana Gelbfish
Easy Dinner:Tacos
Way to unwind: manicure or massage
Chaya Krinsky is the creative director and head designer of Tov furniture. Tov has shaken up the furniture market with their innovative designs, friendly customer service and affordable, comfortable, quality pieces. Tov has a huge fan following and has collaborated with some of the design industry’s biggest names.
In this episode, Chaya shares her unique journey from preschool teacher to furniture creator/designer extraordinaire. Chaya joined her husband's small startup and helped grow it into the huge success it is today. Chaya shares her key ingredients in creating and maintaining a flourishing business. She strongly believes that one needs to get over their fear of failure since it is an inevitable part of the process. Humility and flexibility are two other attributes that Chaya feels every entrepreneur needs to cultivate. With a terrific sense of humor, candid honesty and a willingness to share with other women, Chaya's interview is the perfect dose of inspiration!
Favorites:
Quote:" Don't give up, don't take anything personally, and don't take no for an answer" - Sophia Amoruso
Easy Dinner: Sushi
Destination: Vietnam
Book: Girl Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis
Color: Pink
Girl Boss: Emily Weiss of Glossier
Danielle Renov is a beloved food blogger and recipe developer who lives in Jerusalem with her husband and children. Danielle was the host of food wars on kosher.com, the guest editor for Fleishigs Magazine, and has recently started her own podcast called Peas In A Pod (cast). You can find Danielle on instagram at @peaslovencarrots as well as on kosher.com where she hosts "Cooking with Danielle".
In this episode, we begin with how Danielle found her love of cooking. She credits her Moroccan grandmother (who was a superb cook) as well as her mother who praised Danielle's Duncan Heinz concoctions and encouraged her to experiment with various recipes. Danielle talks about how her cooking style has changed and evolved over the years and how she taught herself how to take better photos of her food, create a blog etc. Danielle maintains that while you should love what you do, it is patience, discipline and persistence that are the key ingredients in building something successful. With thousands of followers, an uber engaged audience and a cookbook in the works, it is quite obvious Danielle's hard work has paid off! We can't wait to see what you have in store Danielle!
Favorites:
Spice: Every spice except dill
Kitchen Gadget: Lemon squeezer
Easy Meal: 1) Chinese takeout 2) spiced grilled chicken with couscous, zhug and tahini
Rivkah Eisenberg is a mother of five and wife to attorney Michael Eisenberg. Additionally, Rivkah is a makeup artist, eyebrow sculptor, marathon runner and avid volunteer to numerous organizations.She runs the challah bake at Milken Community School that has an attendance of over 500 people and teaches at a Kiruv organization for singles. In this episode, we talk about all things beauty related. Rivkah shares her favorite beauty products and tips for glowing skin (key tip: hydration, hydration and more hydration!)We then delve into the topic of inner beauty and Rivkah talks about how we need to embrace an celebrate our flaws. Rivkah shares her inspiring journey of discovering Judaism and talks about how she is continuously cultivating her faith in G-d. Rivkah radiates such positive energy and is so passionate about sharing what she has learned that you are sure to glean many words of wisdom from this interview.
Favorites:
Beauty product: Sunday Riley C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Tumeric Face Oil, Odacite Oil - Youthful Glow, Kevyn Aucoin Candlelight Highlighter
Quote: "If you are irritated by every rub, how will you ever be polished?" - Rumi
Book: Out Of The Depths- Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, Gratitude - Oliver Sacks
Easy meal: crockpot Ghorma Sabzi
Girl boss: Rivkah's daughters
Style icon: Sarah Rutson
( Brownie recipe: King Arthur Gluten Free Brownie Mix)
Adina Schlass is a food stylist, recipe developer and the creator of @the_chefs_wife_. Passionate about using fresh and natural ingredients, Adina inspires thousands of women to try new recipes that are vibrant, healthy, easy to cook and most importantly delicious!With her unique aesthetic and beautifully presented dishes Adina's work is a visual feast!
In this episode, Adina talks about her love of cooking and how she found her unique style when creating dishes. According to Adina, simple does not have to be boring, on the contrary using fresh ingredients and coaxing out flavors (through methods such has sweating vegetable) creates delicious food. Adina also talks about how she has achieved a balance with being active on social media yet being intentional about when and what she posts. We discuss many helpful tips including her approach of being present and seeking creativity from within as opposed to constantly looking at what others are doing. Practical, insightful and ever so honest, my interview wth Adina was a true delight!
Favorites:
Book: Cook Beautiful by Athena Calderone
Easy Dinner: salmon bowls
Kitchen Gadget: microplane
Spice: malden sea salt
Quote:"You don't have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces, just good food from fresh ingredients" - Julia Child
Book: Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl, The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons
Girl Boss: Athena Calderone
Role Model: Adina's grandfather
Shelly Striks is a notable Interior Designer, Principal of Shelly Striks Design Group and owner of The Linen House, a high end bedding boutique in Los Angeles. With experience in Residential, commercial, healthcare and hospitality it is no surprise that Shelly conquered another niche lacking in the LA design scene. Her years of historical and traditional design experience may be the backbone of her boutique. But it’s her heart that is truly passionate about providing a livable luxury lifestyle for her customers. That passion has become infectious to her customers and designers alike.
In this episode, Shelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experience in growing two successful businesses. We discuss the key elements that one needs to have in order to grow a business such as knowing your product inside out and never being afraid to ask questions. We both talk about some of our more humbling experiences when learning the ropes in the hope that by sharing our experiences we can encourage other entrepreneurs going through similar challenges.Shelly has been a wonderful mentor to me and with her warmth, honesty and sense of humor I am sure she will inspire you as well.
Favorites:
Book: Option B by Sheryl Sandberg
Easy Dinner: Chicken cacciatore crockpot dinner
Favorite Quote:"The best thing I ever did was believe in me"
City: Ojai, California
Interior Designer: Barbara Barry
( We also discuss Diane Keaton and her book "The House That Pinterest Built")
Girl Boss / Role Model:Shelly's mother and mother in law
You can find Shelly at @thelinenhousela
Zelda Volkov is the founder of Zelda hair, a company that produces and sells natural, super comfortable wigs made with non processed hair. Zelda is passionate about helping every women look and feel her best. Her work has been featured in Marie Claire and her wigs are worn by numerous style influencers as well as orthodox women looking for chic, natural looking wigs.
In this episode, Zelda shares her advice on the key elements that one needs to have in order to succeed. Refreshingly honest, Zelda talks about her journey in starting her business with just pure passion and a belief in herself. Zelda also opens up about her personal journey and how she is learning to create a life that fulfills her spiritually, mentally etc.
We are often so reactive to our lives and chatting with Zelda really brings to light the importance of creating and cultivating the life we want for ourselves.
Favorites:
Book: Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
Easy Dinner: Salmon with honey, mustard, cilantro and garlic
City: London, Capri
Girl Boss: Joyce Azria
Tanya Heyman is a wife and mom to four and children and three dogs. Tanya strives for being real and honest in all areas of her life, hoping to make a difference in others by doing so.
She is a homebody who loves to make her house feel like a cozy and eclectic sanctuary. Crediting a strong relationship with G-d, Judaism and therapies as her major grounding forces, Tanya is passionate about bringing awareness to mental health.She lives one day at a time in happy chaos.
In this episode, Tanya talks about her decision to be a stay at home mom despite the social pressure to work. Tanya is very deliberate about being present and focused on her children while still pursuing her interests and passions. A transparent and refreshing conversation that touches on everything from coping with anxiety to parenting a child with ADHD, Tanya shares her experience in the hopes of inspiring women to fully embrace who they are. Bravo Tanya for choosing to share your story!
Favorites:
Quote: Man plans and G-d laughs
Book: A million little pieces by James Frey (Please note this book contains graphic content)
Easy meal: take out
Hack: Packing her baby's diaper bag the night before
Beauty Fix : On The Go Glow
Sara is a wife and mom to five children ranging from ages 22-6 years. In addition to working as a speech therapist, Sara runs the ever popular WukoGals along with her two sisters Chani and Elana. Sara intentionally works part time so that she can be involved in her children’s schedules such as volunteering at their school. Passionate about health and exercise, Sara makes time every single day to exercise. Self care is a non negotiable for Sara and enables her to manage her numerous roles so fluidly.
In this episode, Sara shares her tips on how to manage numerous roles in a balanced manner. A proper schedule and routines are essential in ensuring that everything gets done in a timely manner. As a seasoned mom, Sara is super intentional when it comes to parenting. Sara talks about how her goal is to give her children the tools to grow, develop and cultivate a sense of independence. Sara also feels that it is important to teach her children a strong work ethic, this is not simply talk as her daughters really are known to be the best babysitters in town!
Favorites:
Book:any book by Malcolm Gladwell, Turning Judaism Outward by Chaim Miller,
Dinner: any protein, rice or couscous and roasted veggies. Sara buys ready prepped veggies from Trader Joes which after soaking and checking) she roasts on sheet pans.
Workout : spinning, pilates, running,
Girlboss: Rachel Frier
Books mentioned in intro: Brene Brown's Daring Greatly and The Gifts od Imperfection
Beth Warren MS, RDN, CDN is a nationally recognized dietitican-nutritionist and founder of Beth Warren Nutrition. Beth is the author of: Living A Real Life With Real Food and Secrets of a Kosher Girl. In addition to juggling three thriving private practices, Beth has been featured in numerous publications such as Elle magazine and Forbes. As a busy mom of five, Beth understands the need for easy recipes that are healthy but do not compromise on taste or time. You can find Beth’s delicious recipes, as well as her fabulous motivation and exercise videos on instagram at beth_ warren.
In this episode, Beth shares her wealth of knowledge on all aspects of diet and nutrition. We talk about topics such as the latest carb phobia craze, emotional eating and cultivating a positive body image. Motivation is a key factor in incorporating and sustaining a healthy lifestyle and Beth discusses the importance of finding an exercise that you truly enjoy.
Beth’s whole outlook on food, body image, working out etc. is based on the all encompassing belief that living a healthy, positive life is the most important goal. Eating fresh food, engaging in enjoyable activities and respecting your body shape are key elements upon which one can build a healthy life style.
Favorites:
Book: Anticancer by David Servan- Schreiber, Eating Mindfully by Susan Albers
Exercise: boxing
Easy Dinner: branzino recipe from Secrets of a Kosher Girl
Hack: pack lunches the night before
Quote: "If you believe something can be broken, believe it can be fixed"
Girlboss: Adi Heyman, Naomi Nachman
Aura Rosenblatt is a makeup artist, hair stylist, a mother of 3, and sister to 11 siblings! She has been working in the beauty world for over 15 years. She believes that every woman is beautiful and that inner confidence is the best beauty secret.
In this episode, Aura shares her to tips for achieving a beautiful flawless face in minutes. We talk about all things beauty related (such as Aura's favorite products) and you may be surprised to find out that Aura loves some good drugstore items. Aura is also of the belief that beauty truly comes from the inside, and a women's confidence is "the number one tool in her makeup kit". With a great sense of humor and a refreshing take on the beauty industry, Aura will definitely make you think twice about beauty standards and the importance of true self worth.
You can follow Aura at @beautybyaura
Favorites:
Author:Ken Follett, Ruth Reichl, Tara Westover
Book: The Paris Wife
Lipstick:Cover Girl- Worthy, Laura Mercier - Scarlet
Style Icon: Karen Elson, Emma Stone
Girl Boss: Ruth Reichl, Netta Szekely,
Quote: " The good artist borrow the great artists steal" - Picasso
Dini Klein is a chef, food media personality, mom of two, and the founder of Prep and Rally; A family-friendly meal prep subscription service designed to save time, money, and sanity while putting dinner on the table in minutes throughout the busy work-week. She's turned a daily chore into a fun activity with a community of people doing it together! You can find Dini on all social platforms @prepandrally and join the "squad" via www.prepandrally.com!
In this episode, Dini gets candid about what it really takes to create and grow a successful business as a working mom. Some key ingredients include: resilience, balance and the need to have a great vision to build your business. Dini's honesty is refreshing, as it dispels the common myth of the "hiccup free" business start up. In fact, Dini opens up about juggling her roles as a business woman and mom that so many of us face and the challenges involved. With her vibrant energy and great sense of humor, Dini gives us a peek behind the scenes into her successful (and delicious) business.
Favorites:
Cookbook: Dinner by Melissa Clark, It's All Good by Gwyneth Paltrow
Kitchen Gadget: Mellow Sous Vide
Spice: Cinnamon
City: Miami
Beauty Product: Boy Brow by Glossier
Girl Boss: Alli Webb, Ella Woodward of Deliciously Ella, Jenna Kutcher
Leah Sandman is the founder and curator of BellaChic: specializing in vintage clothing accessories and antiques since 2008. In addition to her personal shopping services, Leah hosts pop up shops that offers clients an array of hand selected vintage items. Leah has an uncanny ability to match each client with a unique vintage item that complements them perfectly. Leah's biggest joy is when she sees her clients at various events looking beautiful in their one of a kind pieces.She is current, a unique trendsetter, with old school values and a signature smile.
In this episode, Leah shares her vast knowledge of vintage fashion and offers tips and tricks on finding the perfect vintage piece.We talk about our mutual love of fashion and share our favorite style icons as well as fashion eras.
Leah gets real about what it takes to juggle a family and a business. As a busy mom, Leah intentionally puts her family first and has created a sustainable, flexible business thus allowing her to be more deliberate about her schedule and priorities.Being mindful and present with her family is something Leah cherishes and I was awed by her determination in structuring her life around these values.
You can follow Leah @bellachicvintage
Favorites:
Lipstick: MAC Costa Chic, Clarins Papaya 711
City: New York City, Cape Town, Milan
Fashion icons: Twiggy, Carrie Bradshaw
Easy dinner: Tacos
Favorite fashion era: 70’s
Book: New York Fashion- The Evolution of American Style by Caroline Rennolds Milbank
Quote: "Tracht gut vet zein gut" "Think good and it will be good"
- Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson
Devorah Bukiet is a high end event planner based out of Brooklyn servicing the tri-state areas and beyond.
After studying interior design and starting some small projects, Devorah eventually ventured into event planning after designing her eldest son’s upshern. Along the way she took on the designer position for a popular children's clothing line, which she works on simultaneously. As a wife and the mom to 4 beautiful boys she’s always looking to raise the bar in her career but understands the concerns and limitations of working moms in the same position. With this in mind, Devorah aims to guide us with her experience into the real life of balancing family, work, social media and more, all the while, staying true to her passions and love in the world of design.
In this episode, Devorah shares her unique perspective on creating space and balance in one’s life. Devorah gets really candid about how social media has created opportunities and pressures at the same time and how it’s important to be intentional with our use of it. Louder or bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better and Devorah has found her own unique groove when it comes to her business and finding her creative voice.
Favorites:
Style icon: Kelly Wearstler, Blair Aedie from Atlantic Pacific
Girl Boss: Mindy Weiss
City: Jerusalem
Lipstick: MAC Stone, Nars Lana
Quote: “Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.” Marry Anne Radmacher
Belle Events Corp.
Email belleevents1@gmail.com
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BelleEvent
Instagram @belleeventsdesigns