In this powerful episode, Bill sits down with Rabbi Nissimi Naim Naor—a unique figure who serves as rabbi, chef, healer, and officer in the IDF reserves. Their conversation explores the intersections of faith, food, trauma, and community healing in Israel.

Rabbi Nissimi Naim Naor uses cooking as a form of therapy and connection. His life's work focuses on trauma recovery and emotional wellness, in military reserves and as a civilian rabbi.

A Personal Journey of Faith
Beginning with his Tel Aviv roots through building a multidimensional rabbinate in Jerusalem, and in Jewish communities in North America, Rabbi Nissimmi shares how life’s challenges—including his wife’s illness and the COVID-19 crisis—deepened his understanding of faith, healing, and purpose.

Redefining Rabbinical Leadership
Breaking from traditional expectations, Rabbi Nissimmi integrates trauma care, emotional support, and community building into his work—both in and beyond the synagogue.

Healing Through Food and Media
We discuss his Channel 11 program where cooking becomes a tool for processing grief and restoring connection, revealing how nourishment can be spiritual and therapeutic.

Service and Sacrifice in Uniform
Rabbi Nissimmi reflects on his role as a casualty notification officer in the IDF, sharing the emotional and spiritual weight of delivering news of loss—and the sacred duty embedded in that role.

Parenting and Resilience Amid Crisis
Raising children in times of national trauma, Rabbi Nissimmi speaks to the balance between protecting innocence and preparing for harsh realities—anchored in hope and faith.

The Power of Community
We reflect on how communal bonds enable healing, foster resilience, and help individuals navigate collective trauma through shared experience and sacred presence.

To watch videos of Rabbi Nissimmi's healing through cooking with bereaved families on the Kan Channel 11 network:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4K4gIA0v0s

FOLLOW THE HONEY FOUNDATION:

Website: https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.honeyfoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeyfoundationforisrael

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8BZXaMlyuM&list=PLBvWXVThJky8dAsjPV6TwHsj606qBfkal

In this powerful and timely episode, Bill is joined by the renowned Israeli rabbi and community leader, Rav Binyamin Tzvi (Benny) Lau, for a deeply personal conversation about community, faith, and resilience in challenging times. Together, they explore the transformative power of Torah study, the essential role of community in healing from trauma, and how to maintain hope during some of the most difficult periods in Jewish history.

About Our Guest

Rav Benny Lau is a prominent Israeli rabbi, community leader, activist, author, and public speaker based in Jerusalem. Rav Lau has dedicated his life to Jewish education, community building, and social activism.

Episode Highlights

History and Heritage

Rav Benny's story begins with his grandfather's legacy in Poland - who endowed in the family the unequivocal value that "Eretz Yisrael is our home".

The Ramban Story

Rav Lau shares the fascinating story of how he became the rabbi of the Ramban Synagogue and chronicles the remarkable growth of this Jerusalem community over his 20-year tenure there.

Formative Life Stories

Both Bill and Rav Benny open up about pivotal moments that shaped their lives and defined their respective missions, offering listeners intimate glimpses into their religious journeys.

The Inception of 929

They discuss the establishment of the famous and wildly successful 929 project, which brings together thousands of Israelis and people worldwide to study one chapter of the Bible each day, creating a global community of Torah learners.

Community as a Healing Force

They engage in profound discussion on the vital role and importance of community, especially in the aftermath of October 7, 2023 , and how collective support becomes essential for healing from trauma and returning to healthy living.

Israeli Identity and Jewish Community

Rav Lau and Bill delve into a fundamental question facing modern Israeli Jews: Is being Israeli, speaking Hebrew, and living by the Jewish calendar sufficient, or do we still need intentional community while living in Israel?

Staying Optimistic in Dark Times

Rabbi Benny shares his thoughtful perspectives on how to maintain optimism and hope during this particularly painful period for the Jewish people and the world at large, offering wisdom for navigating collective trauma and uncertainty.

About 929: Tanach B'Yachad

929 is Rav Lau's groundbreaking initiative that has revolutionized Torah study by encouraging people worldwide to read the same chapter of the Tanach (Hebrew Bible) each day. This innovative program has created an unprecedented global community of learners, connecting thousands in shared daily Torah study and fostering deep connections across geographic and cultural boundaries.

To learn more about 929: https://www.929.org.il/lang/en/today

FOLLOW THE HONEY FOUNDATION:

Website: https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.honeyfoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeyfoundationforisrael

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehoneyfoundationforisrae7795

To be part of creating an Israeli society that is more open, more connected and more reflective of our Jewish values, click here to donate to the Honey Foundation for Israel https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/give/

This episode was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

Rabba Keren Apfelbaum Riff

In this episode of Honey from the Rock, we speak with Rabba Keren Apfelbaum Riff, a Honey Fellow whose work centers on building spaces where Jewish identity can be explored, questioned, and reimagined. Drawing from her own journey—from a childhood marked by silence around Judaism to becoming a leader in Israeli spiritual life—Rabba Keren shares what it means to create community without labels, hold space for complexity, and trust that the conversation itself can be sacred.

Highlights from this episode include:

• Her childhood experience growing up in a household where Judaism was not openly discussed, yet feeling a strong inner connection to her heritage.
• A heartfelt story about her maternal grandfather, who humorously claimed to be the messiah, and the profound influence he had on her—despite being secular yet deeply spiritual.
• The path that led her to become a leader in the Jewish community and dedicate her life to Jewish learning.
• Her reflections on her Jewish identity during war and what it taught her about resilience and faith.
• Her leadership position in Mabua, an Israeli Beit Midrash, and the vital role it plays in her life and in fostering Jewish engagement outside traditional religious settings.
• The fundamental role of community, especially during current times of conflict and war, and how it serves as an antidote to cynicism.
• Her insights on the shifts in Jewish life and tradition as people move to Israel.
• Her work in establishing a liberal house of prayer with over 300 weekly attendees.
• Her efforts to bring Jewish education—secular and inclusive—to secular schools.

Join us as we delve into the transformative power of community, faith, and education in shaping Jewish life today.

To Follow Rabba Keren and Mabua:

https://www.facebook.com/mabua.bmi

https://www.facebook.com/keren.apfelbaum/

FOLLOW THE HONEY FOUNDATION:

Website: https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.honeyfoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeyfoundationforisrael

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehoneyfoundationforisrae7795

To be part of creating an Israeli society that is more open, more connected and more reflective of our Jewish values, click here to donate to the Honey Foundation for Israel https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/give/

This episode was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com.

In this episode of Honey from the Rock, Bill sits down with Rachel Ettun, Founder and CEO of Haverut, a family therapist, spiritual caregiver, mentor, and group facilitator. Rachel shares her profound journey rooted in faith, family, and healing—both personal and communal.

Key Topics Covered:

• Rachel’s childhood in a family of seven, where she was raised to ask questions and calmly voice her thoughts.
• The deeply personal story of her second child, Ruth, born with Cystic Fibrosis, and the journey through Ruth’s illness and passing at age 11.
• The inspiring backstory of how Rachel’s experiences led her to co-found Haverut, an organization dedicated to spiritual growth and healing.
• Her transition from asking "Why?" to exploring "For what?"—shifting perspective from questioning to purpose.
• An overview of Haverut, the foundation she leads, and the impactful work they do to foster spiritual healing alongside physical health.
• The importance of healing through belonging, friendship, and community—especially within the Jewish world.
• The distinction between spiritual health and mental health, and how they intersect.
• The powerful role of Jewish life, rituals, and holidays in nurturing mental and spiritual well-being.
• Perspectives on healing as a society from trauma, especially within the Jewish community worldwide.

Join us for this heartfelt conversation about resilience, faith, community, and the continuous journey toward healing.

CONNECT WITH RACHEL ETTUN AND HAVERUT: https://haverut.org.il/about/

FOLLOW THE HONEY FOUNDATION:

Website: https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.honeyfoundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeyfoundationforisrael

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehoneyfoundationforisrae7795

To be part of creating an Israeli society that is more open, more connected and more reflective of our Jewish values, click here to donate to the Honey Foundation for Israel https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/give/

This episode was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

In this episode, Bill sits down with Rabbi Matthew Gewritz, who leads a thriving community of 2,000 families at his synagogue in New Jersey. Their conversation explores Rabbi Matt's unique journey to becoming a spiritual leader and his perspectives on Israel, Zionism, faith, and community.

Episode Highlights:

• Childhood Dreams: At just five years old, Rabbi Matt announced to his family his desire to become "a rabbi on a motorcycle" - a dream he later forgot as he pursued a career in business
• Rediscovering His Calling: When he was 23, his mother reminded him of his childhood ambition, setting him on the path to rabbinical studies
• Balancing Act: Rabbi Matt discusses maintaining a strong pro-Israel stance while leading a congregation in a predominantly liberal community
• Personal Connection: The touching story of how Rabbi Matt first fell in love with Israel and how that relationship has evolved over time
• Media Presence: How Rabbi Matt became known as "the rabbi on TV," or "Morning Joe Rabbi" often speaking on behalf of Jewish perspectives in media
• Meaning Crisis: An insightful discussion about the parallel meaning crises in Israel and America, and how Jewish communities approach these challenges differently
• Evolution of Zionism: Exploration of how Zionism served as a replacement for religion for many Israelis for years, and how both secular and religious Israelis are finding that it's not sufficient on its own anymore
• New Book: Introduction to Rabbi Matt's latest book and its central themes

Join us for this thoughtful conversation about faith, community, and finding purpose in a complex world.

Questions or comments? Send us a message bill@honeyfoundationforisrael.org

To suppport the Honey Foundation's work, https://honeyfoundationforisrael.org/give/

This episode was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

Sacred Secularism: Reimagining Jewish Identity with Dr. Ariel Levinson

In this episode of "Honey from the Rock," Bill sits down with Dr. Ariel Levinson, co-founder of the Secular Yeshiva in Jerusalem, for a profound conversation about Jewish identity, tradition, and renewal.

Dr. Levinson shares his remarkable personal journey, beginning with his religious upbringing in Jerusalem and his early struggles with the concepts of halacha (Jewish law) and God. He recounts his formative years at a yeshiva high school, where days began with four hours of Talmud study, and his later studies at Yeshivat Hesder Ma'ale Gilboa.

The conversation explores Dr. Levinson's difficult decision to separate from the world of halacha, the community challenges this presented, and the profound moment of walking down the street without a kippa for the first time.

Rather than following the typical post-army trip to places like India, Dr. Levinson chose six months of solitude as a shepherd in the Negev desert. This period of seclusion allowed him to confront deep existential questions and begin formulating his vision of a "secular Torah."

Dr. Levinson discusses the founding of the Secular Yeshiva, explaining the unmet needs it addresses and his mission to make Jewish culture relevant and relatable to younger generations. He shares his commitment to connecting the secular world to Jerusalem and preserving Jewish cultural identity beyond strict religious observance.

In light of difficult times in Israel, Dr. Levinson reflects on his role as an educator and thought leader, the importance of developing a Jewish secular identity that embraces Jewish historical texts and culture, and his vision for the future of this mission.

This conversation offers a unique perspective on bridging traditional Jewish learning with contemporary secular life, and the possibilities for renewal in Jewish cultural identity.

Send us your thoughts at bill@honeyfoundationforisrael.org

Join the Honey Foundation's work in improving Israeli society today.

This Podcast was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

In this insightful episode, host Bill is joined by Rabbi Naama Dafni who shares her remarkable journey to becoming a rabbi and discusses her experiences during Israel's current conflict. From her childhood in the diverse city of Haifa to her spiritual awakening and eventual embrace of her rabbinical calling, Rabbi Dafni offers profound reflections on Jewish identity, community resilience, and faith in challenging times.

Key Discussion Points

• Rabbi Dafni's upbringing in Haifa, a multicultural city with diverse Jewish and Arab populations
• Her family history, including grandparents who were members of the Stern Gang.
• The transformative experience during her father's sabbatical in Cambridge, England, where she first consciously recognized her Jewish identity as something distinctive rather than assumed
• Her reluctant path to becoming a rabbi: initially performing rabbinical duties without wanting the formal title, and her eventual decision to embrace the role for the benefit of the Jewish community
• The critical importance of community life in Israel and why it forms the foundation of Israeli society
• Her community's efforts since the outbreak of war to support soldiers by providing a compassionate listening presence and helping them process trauma
• Observable shifts in community engagement before and after the war began
• The crisis of faith many are experiencing—both in God and in humanity's inherent goodness—as a result of the ongoing conflict
• Lessons learned from the post-Holocaust generation who chose to rebuild their lives despite unimaginable suffering

Send us your thoughts at bill@honeyfoundationforisrael.org

Join the Honey Foundation's work in improving Israeli society today.

This episode was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com.

In this episode, Bill sits down with Rabbi Kenneth Brander, President and Rosh Yeshiva of Ohr Torah Stone, for a profound conversation spanning his personal journey and perspectives on Jewish community and inclusion.

Show Notes:

• Personal Journey: Rabbi Brander shares how his trajectory changed from becoming a dentist to attending Yeshiva University after his transformative experience at Shalavim Yeshiva.
• Influential Relationships: Rabbi Brander discusses his older chavruta who fell in the Lebanon War and how Rabbi Soloveitchik encouraged him to enter the rabbinical world.
• Inclusive Judaism: The conversation explores Rabbi Brander's commitment to building relationships with all Jews regardless of their observance practices.
• Challenging Traditions: Rabbi Brander discusses his willingness to question established standards to foster greater inclusion, including topics like women in the clergy.
• LGBTQ Inclusion: The discussion covers his work integrating the LGBTQ community within a halachic framework, emphasizing the humanity behind these complex issues.
• Living Halacha: Rabbi Brander reflects on how halacha permeates daily life in Israel in ways not experienced elsewhere.
• War and Loss: A poignant conversation about the students Rabbi Brander has lost in the current war.
• Healing Division: The importance of healing divisions within Jewish communities both before and during wartime.
• Community Building: Their conversation concludes with thoughts on the vital importance of community for all Jews in Israel.

Send us your thoughts at bill@honeyfoundationforisrael.org

Join the Honey Foundation's work in improving Israeli society today.

This podcast was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com