Boss Maidel's Podcast

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        

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 evens that happened 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: 1- care for people in our community who may have experienced a miscarriage or still birth, 2- dictate our own care and policy on women’s health, 3- 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: Instagram Facebook Chava's blog: Thelma & Louise You can follow Dina on: Instagram Facebook 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