From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. This week, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Josh Broide, and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by the renowned Israeli singer, Akiva Turgeman. Together, they explore Akiva's rise to fame, his deep personal connection to the music that unites the Jewish people, and his inspiring message of hope and resilience. Tune in for an intimate conversation that goes beyond the music. All this and more - Behind the Bima.

Show Notes:Akiva Turgeman, known professionally as Akiva, is an Israeli singer-songwriter renowned for his fusion of traditional Jewish themes with contemporary music styles. Born in 1991 in Dimona, Israel, he is the son of Rabbi David Turgeman, head of the Gevoha Yeshiva, and hails from a family instrumental in founding Dimona. 

Akiva’s musical journey began at the Mizmor Music Academy, where he honed his singing and songwriting skills. Following his studies, he served as a combat soldier in the IDF’s Golani Brigade. His diverse musical influences range from Led Zeppelin to traditional Moroccan piyutim, reflecting his mixed Moroccan and Canadian heritage.   

His breakthrough came in 2018 with the single “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (“Don’t Let Go”), which topped Israeli music charts and garnered millions of views on YouTube. Subsequent hits like “Pshutim” and “Atah Holech Iti” have solidified his place in the Israeli music scene. Akiva’s discography includes albums such as “Olamot” (2017), “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (2021), and “Elef Mena’ulim” (2024).

Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg navigates the intricate landscape of the 39th World Zionist Congress. Rabbi Goldberg is joined by five influential voices in the Jewish world: Rabbi Moshe Hauer representing the OIC-Mizrachi Slate, Rabbi Pesach Lerner of Eretz Ha’Kodesh, Rabbi Steve Burg from Aish Ha’am, Mort Klein of ZOA, and Dan Kaskel leading the Herut slate.

As the election for this global congress unfolds, Rabbi Goldberg unpacks the implications of billions of dollars at stake, influencing policy and direction for the Jewish state and communities worldwide. The guests each represent a unique vision and agenda for their slates, aiming to direct the funds in ways that align with their core values and strategic goals.

All this and more, Behind the Bima.

00:00 - Introduction14:51 - Interview7:38 - Rabbi Moshe Hauer, OIC- Mizrachi Slate25:46 - Rabbi Pesach Lerner, Eretz Ha’Kodesh49:32 - Rabbi Steve Burg, Aish Ha’am1:06:16 - Mort Klein, ZOA1:22:44 - Dan Kaskel, Herut

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Philip Moskowitz, and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with the extraordinary Zevi Samet—a dynamic yeshiva bachur and celebrated basketball star whose journey is as inspiring off the court as it is on. Zevi shares his unique story of balancing Torah learning with athletic excellence, revealing how every game-winning shot is a lesson in perseverance, faith, and self-motivation. Join us as we explore his transformative path, the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence, and the powerful role of Torah in every facet of his life.

Plus, get the inside scoop on our groundbreaking new media center, a campus expansion that’s doubling our impact, and our record-breaking global charity matching campaign that raised $6 million in just 48 hours!

All this and more, Behind the Bima.

00:00 - Introduction14:51 - Interview

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Daniel Kalisch, the Menahel of the Mesivta of Waterbury.

Rabbi Kalish delves into the themes of community legacy, the impact of his father's dedication to Torah, and the importance of connection both within the community and in personal relationships.

He shares profound insights on maintaining moral integrity, the significance of friendship in marriage, and the transformative power of faith and personal connection. Plus, reflections on contemporary challenges and the role of the Jewish community in fostering unity and resilience. All this and more, Behind the Bima.

Can you join us as a Global Ambassador? We am looking for 250 members from our Global community to give or raise $1,800. You can pay it at one time or in installments. If you can commit to this, we have a special gift for you:

Give or help raise $1,800 and join us and the BRS Rabbis in New York, Israel or Florida for an exclusive celebratory dinner with an exclusive BRS giveaway.

If you can't be one of the 250 helping us with $1,800, please consider giving or raising $1,000 to be acknowledged as a global pillar in our newsletter or $360 to be entered into a raffle for two domestic flights to Florida to join our BRS community for a special Shabbos of Unity.

Can you be one of the 250 that we can count on?

It would be an enormous help towards our goal and realizing this dream of building our campus and building Klal Yisrael.

Donate here: https://donate.charidy.com/40987?team....

Create your own fundraising team here: https://view.charidy.com/new_team_pag....

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. In this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with Rabbi Doron Perez—a dedicated father, compassionate leader, and a unifying force for our Jewish community. Known for his steadfast role as executive chairman of the Mizrahi World Movement, Rabbi Doron opens his heart about the unimaginable pain of losing his beloved son, and yet, the deep resilience that has carried him forward.

In this intimate conversation, Rabbi Doron shares how he has navigated the painful duality of grief and hope—balancing personal loss with his public mission of bridge-building and unity. He reveals how his journey has inspired him to reach across divides, fostering connection and healing within a community often challenged by discord.

Join us as we delve into Rabbi Doron Perez’s reflections on loss, leadership, and the power of togetherness, and learn how one man’s strength is lighting the way for a more united future. All this and more, behind the bima.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima! This week, prepare for a powerful father-and-son duo who’ve made an indelible mark on both the Jewish community and the broader cultural landscape. Join Rabbi Efrem Goldberg as he sits down with the one and only Ben Shapiro and his father, David Shapiro, in an intimate, heartfelt conversation that explores everything from Ben’s path into political commentary to the profound impact of David’s musical genius on his son’s life and career.

They’ll take us behind the scenes of their remarkable collaboration on the new musical “We Will Rise,” a stirring production spotlighting the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising that moved Israeli audiences to tears and ignited renewed hope in challenging times. Discover how a shared love of learning, faith, and the power of music forged an unbreakable bond between father and son—and glean parenting insights from David on raising a child who not only sits at your side in synagogue, but partners with you on grand creative endeavors.

All this and more, Behind the Bima.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Rabbi Chaim Wolfson, Co-Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Hahesder Yerucham.

Rabbi Wolfson shares the brave and emotional journey of his yeshiva over the past year and a half, focusing on the sacrifices made by students on the frontlines defending Am Israel. He discusses the shift from traditional Torah study to providing spiritual support for students in combat and the vital role of faith and education during these challenging times. This episode also explores the complexities of the recent ceasefire, the ongoing support from the global Jewish community, and the profound impact of keeping the Torah flame burning amidst adversity. All this and more, Behind the Bima.

Show Notes:For more information about Yeshivat HaHesder Yerucham and its programs, visit their official website: https://yhyh.co.il/en/home_eng/

To read more about the sacrifices of the yeshiva’s students, see this article: https://www.ynetnews.com/article/ryts7wr11jg

Learn more about Rabbi Chaim Wolfson and his leadership at the yeshiva here: https://yhyh.co.il/en/about-us/

This episode offers a moving tribute to the resilience and dedication of Yeshivat HaHesder Yerucham and its community.

From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima.

On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Yaakov Klein, a respected author, musician, and lecturer. Recognized for his dedication to sharing the inner light of Torah and Chassidic wisdom, Rabbi Klein discusses his journey and the transformative power of spiritual growth.

He delves into the importance of integrating music in one’s spiritual life, and shares insights on how modern Jews can connect deeply to their heritage. Plus, reflections on his role as the founding director of the Lost Princess Initiative and his latest endeavors with Jewish Futures. All this and more, Behind the Bima.

Show notes:🔹 Rabbi Yaakov Klein’s WorkRabbi Yaakov Klein is a renowned author, musician, and lecturer dedicated to sharing the depth of Torah and Chassidic wisdom.

🔹 The Lost Princess InitiativeAn organization focused on inspiring spiritual growth through the teachings of Chassidus and the writings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.🌍 Visit: https://lpitorah.org/🔹 Jewish FuturesRabbi Klein’s latest endeavor, aiming to shape the future of Jewish education and inspiration.🌍 Visit: https://www.jfutures.org/

🔹 Follow Rabbi Yaakov Klein OnlineStay updated on his teachings, writings, and music.📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yaakov.klein.370/🎵 YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/49z3aabe

Rabbi David Aaron is a renowned spiritual educator, author, and speaker dedicated to sharing profound Torah wisdom. He is the founder and dean of Isralight, an international organization committed to inspiring a renaissance in Jewish life. Additionally, Rabbi Aaron serves as the Rosh Yeshiva of Orayta, a dynamic yeshiva located in the Old City of Jerusalem, offering transformative learning experiences for young men.

For more information and resources, you can visit the following websites:

• Rabbi David Aaron’s Official Website: https://www.rabbidavidaaron.com
• Isralight: https://www.isralight.org
• Orayta: https://www.orayta.org

00:00 - Introduction12:17 - Interview

From Boca Raton, Florida, This is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, Founder and President of the National Association of Chevra Kadisha and Director of the Chevra Kadisha of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens.

Rabbi Zohn discusses the challenges and responsibilities of his role and explains why respecting the dead is a cornerstone of Jewish beliefs. Rabbi Zohn also addresses contemporary issues such as cremation, the importance of proper burial, and the need for communal support in these matters.

He provides insights into how communities can improve their burial practices and the significance of maintaining dignity and respect for those who have passed away. All this and more, Behind the Bima.

Notes:endcremation.orglastkindness.org

00:00 - Interview