Soul Sessions with KK

Let's talk about anxiety. Everyone seems to have some level of it nowadays, especially post-pandemic with all the uncertainties in the world. In this episode, I sit down with Aliza Tropper, a licensed psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience. 

“Omg! You're so skinny!”….”You look amazing! What did you do?” Many of us have either made or heard comments like this throughout our lives. And it may seem innocent but in this weeks episode, you will find out why body comments like this are more harmful than helpful. This week I'm continuing the conversation on body image and disordered eating with Rachel Tuchman. This is the second time Rachel has appeared on the show — this time she discusses another topic that she's very passionate about: Diet Culture. When most people think of “healthy”, they automatically think of the foods they are supposed to eat and the ones they're not supposed to eat. Or some of us think health has to do with a certain look. In other words, dieting usually becomes the cure to whatever issues we're going through. Rachel challenges us to rethink the way we look at health. What does it mean to be a healthy person? Is it just about the food we consume? What about dieting? Does dieting solve our innermost needs? Rachel answers these questions and so much more. This episode was incredibly eye opening and it made me realize that not only are we so obsessed with dieting and the way we look as a culture, but we are forgetting what it actually means to be a healthy person. I highly encourage you to listen to this episode. You won't look at dieting the same way again. Enjoy the show! ———————————————————— •You can find Rachel Tuchman on https://instagram.com/rachel_tuchman_lmhc?igshid=ODBkMDk1MTU= •www.racheltuchman.com •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Did you know that 9-12% of eating disorders are between females 5-80 years old? Did you know that Jewish girls could be up to double as likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder? We are facing an Eating Disorder Pandemic that only got worse since the Covid Pandemic.

When most people hear the word breast cancer or ovarian cancer, understandably their first response might be fear or anxiety. Cancer is a scary road and nobody wants to go there. But the reality is that 1 out of 40 men and women of Jewish ashkenazi descent carry a genetic mutation or pathogenic variant that greatly increases their risk of developing breast, ovarian, male breast, pancreatic, prostate cancer, or melanoma. Thank God we have Sharsheret (“Chain”). Sharsheret supports Jewish women and their families facing breast and ovarian cancer no matter what stage they are at — before, during, and even after diagnosis. In this episode I interview the CEO of Sharsheret, Elana Silber. Elana talks to me about how Sharsheret started and how they help women from all Jewish backgrounds facing breast and ovarian cancer. Sharsheret is not just a peer support network, but it also empowers women and their families by raising awareness, educating women and men on risk, genetic screening, and preventative measures, and also providing mental, emotional, and financial support. This interview was recorded back in April before my moms health took a turn for the worst. Although my mom didn't have breast or ovarian cancer, Sharsheret was still supporting me and helping me navigate through the highs and lows. This interview is dedicated in the loving memory of my dear mom Raya Karmely z”l, Rachel bat Yosef who passed away on Shavuot. I hope this interview benefits you as much as it did for me. Enjoy the show.

When it comes to being “niddah” or going to the mikveh, there are endless questions. Many of us don't feel comfortable asking a rabbi these questions which directly relate to our bodies because it is uncomfortable or too intimate. Some of us might also feel like a rabbi can't relate to what we're even experiencing. Well that's where a Yoetzet Halacha comes in… Meet my friend Lisa Septimus @5townsyoetzet. Lisa is a Yoetzet Halacha otherwise known as a Female Halachic consultant. In episode 58, Lisa talks to me about why there is a need for Yoatzot especially in todays day and age. We also talk about how we can improve the mikveh experience for women, some of the common issues when observing Taharat Hamishpacha, and how Torah values can positively steer a marriage. As a Teacher, Yoetzet, Kallah teacher, Rebbetzin, Mother, and wife, Lisa has incredible insight and wisdom to share with you. Whether you observe all the laws of family purity or not, you will gain so much from this episode. To quote Lisa herself “Open yourself up to new possibilities”. Enjoy the show

In this weeks episode, I interview Sherri Mandell. Sherri is an author, speaker, pastoral counselor, and co-founder of the Koby Mandell foundation. When Sherri lost her son to a terrorist attack 20 years ago, her world was dark and grim. Today she shows us how her grieving went from “a dark cave to a birds nest”, as she puts it. You will learn a little about what that means in this episode. While speaking about Koby was an opportunity to share his story, it was actually writing that helped her cope with loss. Sherri's first book “The Blessing of a Broken Heart” taught her the power of narrative and how it forces us to find meaning in our lives. This show is not only about grief and how to comfort people who are grieving, but its about the power of community and that hope is always an option. This is an important conversation you don't want to miss. Please share with anyone you think who could benefit from this topic. ————————————————————— •You can find Sherri on https://www.Instagram.com/sherrimandell10 •You can see her work on www.KobyMandell.org •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Do you ever wonder what the process of writing a book is like? Meet my next guest, Tamara Miller Davis from Southern California. She explains what led her to write her first book, “Despite the Buzz,” and why it is relevant for our times. Tamara wrote this story in response to technology's toll on teachers and students. The novel is also about timely social issues and topical interests.  Set in 2019, Tamara captivates a multi-generational audience with her interesting characters, witty observations, romantic elements, educational insights, and thematic material that almost everyone can resonate with.  Whether you grew up before or after the invention of smartphones, you will appreciate this cautionary tale.  The colorful book dives into topics of digital distraction, electronic accountability, and online exposure in a way that's engaging and exciting.  “Despite the Buzz” of what's going on in your phone, this artful book will definitely grab your attention and keep you reading.  Enjoy the show! —————————————————————— Tamara is originally from Michigan. She is a substitute teacher, dance enthusiast, fire captain's wife, mother, Coast Guard veteran, and member of the Women's National Book Association.  You can find Tamara on: https://www.Instagram.com/tamaramillerdavis https://www.facebook.com/despitethebuzz/ and https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58341719-despite-the-buzz?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=QQeGWr8rbv&rank=1 
•You can see her work on www.Despitethebuzz.com •Her informational novel can be purchased here: https://amzn.to/3gAmohk. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/despite-the-buzz-tamara-davis/1139373450?ean=9781736372203, and https://bookshop.org/books/despite-the-buzz/9781736372203 •The book is distributed through Ingram Spark, so any independent bookstore or neighborhood Barnes and Noble can order copies!  •Resources She Recommends: Screenagers: www.screenagersmovie.com     Center for Humane Technology: www.humanetech.com                Common Sense Media: https://www.commonsense.org    American Academy of Pediatrics: HealthyChildren.org The Social Dilemma on Netflix   Parenting in the Screen Age by Delaney Ruston      Alone Together by Sherry Turkle     Unselfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-MeWorld by Michele Borba   Parenting in the Screen Age by Delaney Ruston   Some Finer Points from Tamara - Based on her Research and Experience Parenting/Teaching:  Not all screen use is the same. Other (unstated) issues with cell phones in school (and with teens in general, especially on social media), include social comparison, anxiety, impatience, and body image. Further digital wellness suggestions: unfollow outrageous people and groups on social media; don't subscribe to every platform; consider leaving your phone in the car or house when going out; support local journalism instead of relying on social media for news; examine your intentions when getting online; contemplate the trade-offs when you pick up your phone; do not share private information with strangers; use a private (vs public) profile when possible; do not contribute to the misinformation problem by sharing unchecked sources and/or inflammatory information; model cell-phone restraint to younger people; have a family media plan or screentime contract in place; use smart watches (with limited online access/capabilities) instead of phones to reach kids when necessary; do not let children under 13 sign up for social media that's intended for teens/adults; check age recommendations (and protective options) on video games.  Last but not least, in case any literary agents are listening, Tamara is open to writing a sequel, which could be set during the pandemic. Numerous readers are waiting for it to be written…

Meet Anna Sherman, a registered Psychotherapist from Toronto, Canada who works with individuals, couples and families. Anna talks to me about her childhood experience of being bullied and settling for unhealthy and controlling friendships. She also talks about how her low self-esteem trickled down to her adult relationships and that it allowed others to mistreat her. Anna has come a very long way. Not only has she learned what it takes to be an empowered woman, but she also guides women around the world in living authentic and intentional lives. She has recently published a book called The Empowered Woman's Journal that helps women like myself focus on the elements in life that truly matter… How does one leave toxic friendships and relationships and find healthier and more meaningful ones? How does one move on from years of people-pleasing and develop a life that is fulfilling and meaningful for oneself? Find out by listening to episode 55 of Soul Sessions with KK. —————————————————— •You can find Anna on https://www.Instagram.com/anna_sherman_psychotherapist or her website www.AnnaShermanRP.com •You can purchase her book The Empowered Woman's Journal on https://www.amazon.com/Empowered-Womans-Journal-therapeutic-intentional/dp/B09JF1VCZW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=32YY1775Z9B34&keywords=empowered+women+journal&qid=1640141763&sprefix=empowered+women+journal%2Caps%2C55&sr=8-3 •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

We used to hear “Don't talk to strangers. Never go into a strangers car. Don't get candy from a stranger”. Nowadays, the danger with strangers is not so much in the playground, but in your very own home. In episode 54, I sit down with Rahel Bayar to discuss Online predatory behavior. But something interesting I learned is that online sexual abuse can happen not only from strangers but also from people your children know or even strangers POSING as people your children know. As a former sex crimes and child abuse prosecutor and a speaker and consultant on Abuse and Harassment Prevention, Rahel makes it very clear that Yes. It can happen to your child. But before you start panicking, Rahel assures us that with the right attitude and mindset, there is always room to make our kids safer. This is a conversation that you don't want to miss and will encourage you to start having these conversations with your own kids. Enjoy the show! ————————————————————— •You can find Rahel on https://www.Instagram.com/Rahel.Bayar Or on www.theBayargroup.com •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

There are trending topics and then there are topics that must be spoken about at all times. Child sexual abuse is one of them. Meet Asher Lovy from Za'akah. Since 2012, Za'akah has been at the forefront of the fight against child sexual abuse in the Orthodox Jewish Community, EDUCATING people about child sexual abuse, securing JUSTICE for survivors, and working to prevent child sexual abuse in our communities. Asher talks to me about abuse prevention and seeking justice for survivors. We also speak in depth about how abuse starts, what kind of culture and circumstances allow sexual abuse to happen, and what we can do as a community to not only prevent it from happening but also the kind of environment we should be fostering for our children to feel safe. While many people feel uncomfortable around this subject and prefer not to talk about it, that is exactly why I WANT to talk about it. Pretending that our communities don't have any issues and denying that child sexual abuse happens doesn't shoo the problem away, but only feeds it more. I highly encourage you to listen to this interview with an open mind and to reach out to Za'akah if you or anyone you know has experienced child sexual abuse. You can find them at Zaakah.org or call them at 1888-492-2524. Enjoy the show! •You can find Za'akah on https://www.Instagram.com/zaakahny or Asher Lovy on Twitter https://twitter.com/hareianiblog?s=21 •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Due to popular demand, I am re-releasing my first ever podcast episode! I sit down with Liba Yoffe to talk about our shared experience of having a daughter with Alopecia, a hair-loss condition. Dealing with this type of situation was challenging AF, but we both learned how to accept it and we talk about why we and our daughters are better off that way! Get ready for a truly beautiful and heart warming conversation!

What do you do when life knocks you down? Do you become a rubber ball, a cement ball, or a glass ball? Meet my dear friend Rena Gombo, certified Mental Health Counselor and Child Specialist. She sits down with me to talk about what it means to be resilient and it somewhat has to do with rubber, glass, and cement. You'll see what I mean when you listen to the episode… Rena explains why she became a mental health counselor and shares her experience battling breast cancer. She was diagnosed eight years ago and it continues to impact her life and the lives of those around her. This interview was recorded and is being released during a challenging time in my life, but it gave me the life force and Chizuk I needed to continue going on. Thank you Rena Gombo for inspiring me with your strength and hopeful attitude. I know that your story will inspire others. This show is dedicated in the merit of the speedy and complete recovery of my mom Rachel bat Chana and my friend Rachel bat Liora. Enjoy the show. •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

It's never been easy being single in our society. Add being an Orthodox Jew to the mix and the struggles seem to be even more challenging. In episode 51, I sit down with my friend Zahava Moskowitz and we talk about what it's really like to be single in a Jewish community. While we speak about the various challenges and pressures, we also talk about how we can collectively make the experience easier and better for Jewish singles. Zahava has a podcast called “Singled Out” that discusses a variety of topics about Single-hood from egg-freezing, financial burdens, religious Development, and much more! Zahava provides an incredible resource of information as well as support and guidance for anyone trying to navigate the Jewish single scene. While this episode provides validation and support for single men and women, it is also a wake up call for everyone else. What can we do to help our single friends? What are some of the ways we can change the way we think about being single and being in a relationship? Find out by listening to the latest episode with Zahava Moskowitz. Enjoy! —————————————————- •You can find Zahava on https://www.Instagram.com/singledout613 •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Kicking off a new season of

I sit down with the Hubster again and we speak about many topics including patriotism or the lack thereof, the state of America and NYC, Antisemitism, and the concept of Evil in the world. I am excited to announce that my husband Ben and his friend Benzi have created a podcast of their own: Judaism Demystified (A Podcast for the Perplexed). https://open.spotify.com/show/0M0ZJBs1MOvvi1IeU2HQIn?si=zWECddOsRlqcYmwqAWWK_w&dl_branch=1 Follow them on Instagram @judaism.demystified!

We often have a picture in our head of what a person with an eating disorder looks like. Or we think that there must have been something external that contributed to the eating disorder.

Dedicated in loving memory of Sarina Rut bat Ephraim and Ester bat Eliyahu. May their memories be a blessing. —————————————————————- Is Grief something that goes away? Or is it something that stays with you for the rest of your life? ❤️ In episode 47, I sit down with my friend Dina Kalaty, a parenting and mindfulness coach, about Love and Loss. This is the first time she is speaking on a podcast and it is a true honor. ❤️ Dina talks to me about her relationship with two special souls: her baby girl Sarina z”l and her sister in law Dorina z”l. She shares how they both impacted her life (and the life of others) while they were alive and even after they passed away till this very day. ❤️ Can one be happy again after loss? Is there hope after tragedy? Dina tackles some of these questions and more. ❤️ Dina also talks about why she decided to become a parenting coach and how she embraced her Judaism wholeheartedly. ❤️ This is an episode that will leave a lasting impression on your heart. Enjoy! Just grab a box of tissues before you start… ————————————————————— •You can find Dina on https://www.Instagram.com/dinakalaty •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk. •If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and SHARE with people who would be interested! Also please feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! I truly appreciate it ❤️. *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

I got great feedback from last weeks short episode and I thought to do another one this week! Thank you for your support and feedback! This weeks Parasha shows us the devastating effects of jealousy. How does jealousy take over someone's life? How can we be commanded not to covet or desire what others have when it's only natural? I try and tackle some of these questions in episode 46 of Soul Sessions with KK! Please subscribe, leave a review, and share if you enjoy!!

This episode is very different from what I usually do... I'm basically giving a monologue without interviewing anyone. I speak about Jewish identity and Jewish pride. This is based on a speech I gave in my synogogue last week. I hope you enjoy! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Thank you for listening

Sexual Abuse. Debilitating Pain. Numbing. These are just some of the things our next guest will be sharing on the podcast. Rachel Cohen is a wife and mom to 2 beautiful children and she is a survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse. Rachel is sharing her story for the first time on audio. It was not easy for Rachel to speak about this nor was it easy to listen to. If you have been sexually abused, this may be triggering for you. Listener discretion is advised. Rachel's childhood was taken away from her when she was sexually abused at the ripe age of SIX years old. She tells us how it all started and how it affected her as a child, teenager, and adult. She talks to me about how she dealt with her trauma and how she healed. Her hope is to raise awareness that Childhood Sexual Abuse is more common than we think and to help prevent this from happening to children again. This show is a must listen. Enjoy

It's so easy to see the bad in everything and to complain when life gives us lemons. Tova, (as her name describes) chooses to do the opposite: to see the good and the positive. ✡️ In this interview, Tova shares her story of how she left her very comfortable life in New Jersey to Israel, where she wasn't yet fluent in the language or the culture. ✡️ Moving to Israel not only led her to a different job and lifestyle, but it also led her to her new husband Betzalel. She talks about going from a mom of 3 kids to a family with 10 kids. Yeah that's an adjustment. Tova shares what it's like to be remarried, but more specifically to a Sabra: a native Israeli. ✡️ In this interview I couldn't help but notice Tova's unwavering faith and trust in God. Through everything she has gone through, God was always and will continue to be a major part of her life. In this “Aliyah series”, Tova teaches us that living in Israel might be challenging just like anywhere else, but it's the choice we make no matter how difficult it is that makes it a life worth living. ✡️ This is a show you don't want to miss! Enjoy! ————————- •You can find Tova on https://www.Instagram.com/tovainisrael/. and www.tovainisrael.com. •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk and on the Shmuzy app where we can discuss the episode in further detail! •If you enjoyed this episode, Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Yaffy Newman, a veteran of the podcast world, speaks to me about her Aliyah experience as a Black and Latina Jew. Born and raised in Hollywood, Florida Yaffy opens up about what it was like to grow up as a black woman in a tight knit Jewish community in the U.S. and how that experience was different after moving to Israel. Our conversation expanded my understanding of what it's like to be a minority of a minority. Are we supposed to be completely color-blind or should we see color? We discuss this among other fascinating and eye-opening topics. This episode will open your mind and heart to Israel, the experience of Jewish minorities, and to the fact that Israel is a melting pot of Jews from all backgrounds and colors. In Israel, as in every other place in the world, a Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Enjoy the Show! —————————————————————— You can find Yaffy on https://www.Instagram.com/yafnew/. •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk and on the Shmuzy app where we can discuss the episode in further detail! •If you enjoyed this episode, Remember to RATE AND SUBSCRIBE and feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Part 3 of the Aliyah Series, Episode 41 with Rebekah Durham @noshbyrebeka

In episode 40, I sit down with Dr. Aviva Goldstein @dravivagoldstein. When she moved to Israel 10 years ago with her family, she fulfilled a dream she had with her husband when they came for Shana Rishona (the first year of their marriage). Aviva has her Masters and Doctorate from the Field of Education and she speaks about switching gears when she made Aliyah: from working at a school to working with people individually. Aviva and I have a candid discussion about the different challenges that American kids have vs. Israeli kids. By working with Gap Year students (kids who come from the states to learn for a year in Israel), Aviva is able to help them adapt to Israeli culture and become more resilient. Among other topics, we speak about ADHD, since it's a hot topic nowadays. Aviva challenges us to see ADHD not as a problem, but as a super strength. Whether it's ADHD or any other learning disability, we learn that knowledge is constantly evolving and nothing is fixed. Aviva helps us understand that while their are issues that are unique to America and Israel, there are many things that are universal, one of them being our need for human connection. Enjoy the show! ——————————————————————

In this weeks episode, I have a conversation with Talli Rosenbaum, an individual and couples therapist and a certified sex therapist who together with Rabbi Scott Kahn, has a great podcast of her own called “Intimate Judaism”: https://www.intimatejudaism.com. She talks to me about how sex is not an isolated part of our lives, rather it's part of who we are biologically, psychologically and socially, as well as relationally. Talli explains that sex is not just something that you do, but a journey you go on with the person you love. We talk about the difference between the male and female sex drive and how certain gender myths and expectations can cause more damage than good. Talli challenges the notion that a couple needs to “succeed” in sex, and stresses the importance of connection, presence and pleasure, over performance. In this episode, you will learn that a good sex life has less to do with the mechanics and more to do with the actual relationship. It's all connected. This conversation is meant for mature audiences only. Listener discretion is advised You can check out all the amazing work she does on www.tallirosenbaum.com including a book she co- authored: I Am For My Beloved: A Guide to Enhanced Intimacy for Married Couples. . You can find Talli on https://www.Instagram.com/TalliRosenbaum/. https://www.instagram.com/intimatejudaism/ •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk and on the Shmuzy app where we can discuss the episode in further detail in a forum: https://app.shmuzy.com/VyYTSYA0ydb •If you enjoyed this episode, Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Children: one of the most misunderstood demographics of our world. Most of us were taught that we must always respect our parents and our elders. But what about the other way around? Sterna Suissa @sternasuissa talks to me about how children need unconditional love and respect from the adults in their lives. And it starts with self awareness. When Sterna got married she noticed that she lacked proper communication skills. After much research and looking within herself, she realized that much of it had to do with something in her childhood. And she is here on a mission to make sure all children have a childhood where they are understood, respected, and loved. How do we understand and connect with our children? What does our relationship with ourselves have to do with how we raise them? How can we relate to children when they are crying, screaming, or going through heavy emotions? Find out by listening to episode with Sterna Suissa... You can join the parenting community by going on her website sternasuissa.com. . •You can find Sterna on https://www.Instagram.com/sternasuissa/ And www.sternasuissa.com. •If you enjoyed this episode, Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Grief. Loss. Anxiety. Uncertainty. Ricki Steiner went through it all. After losing her mother to cancer at a young age, Ricki learned that grief never really goes away, it just sometimes manifests in peculiar ways. Ricki is very candid about grief and mourning, and she learned that it doesn't just occur when someone dies. Ricki also mourned the loss of her dream wedding. Her story is one that will move you to tears and validate the experience of so many brides during a pandemic. As a person who struggles with anxiety, Ricki shows us different ways she experiences and manages it. And her goal is to get comfortable in chaos. Ricki and I have a candid discussion about all sorts of interesting topics (including Instagram culture and the Giveaway conundrum) that she normalizes on her Instagram page. Get ready to get real with Ricki! Enjoy the show! ————————————————————————— You can find Ricki on https://www.Instagram.com/rickisteiner/. •This episode can also be found on https://linktr.ee/coach.kk and on the Shmuzy app where we can discuss the episode in further detail! •If you enjoyed this episode, Remember to hit the SUBSCRIBE button, leave a REVIEW, and feel free to REACH OUT with feedback and questions! *To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/. Email: Soulsessionswithkk@gmail.com

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for mature audiences only. It is not meant to offend anyone or push any agenda. Listener discretion is advised. There are many different sects of Jewish Orthodoxy. You may have heard stories of people leaving their communities or being “off the derech”/off the path because of the intense pressure and stringencies. Leah Forster @leahforster is here to squash those misconceptions. Born and raised in a Chassidish Ultra Orthodox community, Leah talks to me about how she didn't leave the community, but how the community left her... Today, she is a successful comedian whose trademark sound “Chellow chellow “ has been reverberating all over social media. Leah is a mother, wife, and a Jew. In this interview, she talks about how putting people in labels is so “FEH”. (you'll find out what that means in this episode

Why do so many of our brothers and sisters turn to drugs and alcohol? How does an addict get out of a deep rabbit hole? How do we solve the addiction crisis? These were some of the questions I had for Coach Moishe Chanin @coachmoishe where he shares his story of addiction and rehabilitation. During the interview, I was so focused on how we need to “fix” the problem that I didn't realize I was focusing on the wrong thing. Moishe helped me discover that the answer doesn't lie in the symptom, but more in the cause. From the young age of 7, Moishe started engaging in illegal behaviors in order to feel something he was lacking. His later pursuit of alcohol drove him to other substances as well as suicide ideation. Moishe's story is one that will touch your heart. He teaches us the importance of deep inner work and asking others for help. But most importantly, we learn that the

In this weeks soul session, I have my husband Ben join the show. This is his second time on the podcast and this time we get into an array of topics such as: Why Chanukah is misunderstood, the Irony of how we celebrate it, Jewish polemics against pagan culture, the new CoVid vaccine, Woke culture and its suppression of open discourse, the body positivity conundrum, fleeing NY, aliens and UFO's, and MUCH more! We get into a lot of different topics because thats just how we roll. We try to stay on relevant current events. If you liked this episode and want to hear more, please let us know what topics you would like to hear us talk about! Feel free to message me your questions or suggestions! You can find this episode on Apple, Spotify, Anchor, and Shmuzy. To find out more about what I do, you can find me on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/coach.kk/

We all know the platitude “What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger”. Some of us might scoff at it and some of us might think of Kelly Clarkson. Yet, this episode with Nina Gruenfeld @ninabbey will show you that sometimes our hardships can make us stronger. Trauma. Abuse. Cancer. Divorce. Nina went through one thing after another. For the first time ever, she is telling her story on “Soul Sessions with KK”. Not only do we speak about the pain that Nina went through, but we talk about strength and what it means to be a “strong” person. Nina Gruenfeld is a dual survivor: of Hodgkin Lymphoma and Domestic Violence. She uses her survivorship to raise awareness and advocate for each cause respectively. She is passionate about living her best life gratefully each day and helping those going through similar experiences. This show is about hope, resiliency and perseverance. Her story is truly miraculous. And it is here just in time for Chanukah: the holiday of Miracles! Enjoy the show!

Get ready for a captivating interview with Rabbi Joshua Maroof @joshuamaroof. If you think this is your typical “Ask the Rabbi”, think again. In this episode, Rabbi Maroof tells me about how he became a rabbi when all he wanted to be was a psychologist... I ask him questions that I believe many people want answers to, such as: What is Judaism's role in helping us deal with a crisis? What's the difference between being religious and being observant? In what areas can Orthodox Judaism improve? And more! Growing up with an Ashkenazi mother and a Sephardi father, Rabbi Maroof talks about the difference between the two cultures and how we can bridge the gap between all denominations and cultures of Judaism. He also talks to me about what the biggest threat to Judaism is today, and his answer may surprise you. This episode will give you a fresh perspective on Judaism and a hope for a better future. Enjoy the show! **************************************************************************************** You can find Rabbi Maroof's work on his website www.ydvh.org. Rabbi Maroof is the founder and dean of YDVH (Yeshivat Deah VeHaskel), an innovative online educational platform that electronically distributes written and audio Torah classes to thousands of committed subscribers every day!

What do you think of when you see someone who is single? What do you think of when you enter Jewish communal spaces as a single adult? Whether you are single or in a relationship, we can all learn from Rachel Hercman @rachelhercman. Rachel talks to me about some of the issues Jewish women and men are facing, especially in the pandemic. There are issues in the dating world but there are also challenges of just being single in a Jewish community. While growing up in a family-oriented culture is a beautiful thing, it can also be extremely challenging for people who are not married yet or choose not to be married. Is there a so called “shidduch crisis” and if there is, what are some ways we can alleviate the challenges? In this episode, Rachel not only gives an empowering message to our single adults, but more importantly, how we as a community need to re-examine our culture and facilitate not just more introduction but more INTEGRATION. What kind of conversations should we be having with our friends and neighbors? Find out how by listening to episode 29 with Rachel Hercman!

Will @therealmelindastrauss please stand up? Not only does Melinda Strauss stand up for what she believes in, but she does it with passion, drive, and respect. Melinda started out as a food blogger and photographer sharing her passion and love for cooking and baking. Melinda is also an inspirational speaker but her main profession is health coaching. And even though the diet industry might be getting lots of heat right now, Melinda shares her wisdom on how she rises above all the criticism. You may not agree with Melinda's lifestyle choices or her political views. But wherever you stand, you will certainly LEARN from Melinda. Her motto in life is to have respectful conversations with people who think differently. We may disagree but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be kind to each other. We are living in a time of so much uncertainty and chaos. This conversation will motivate and inspire you (we discuss the difference between the two). Melinda gives us her wisdom on how to dream big and live your best life. Enjoy the show!

In this weeks episode, I had the privilege of interviewing the one and only Dr. Batsheva Marcus @drbatsheva. I discovered her work when she was featured in a NY Times article back in 2015 as “The Orthodox Sex Guru.”

This episode was recorded 2 months before Collin tragically passed away. May this interview reflect the light that he embodied. Collin you are dearly missed. Rest In Peace Collin Kartchner. ———————————————————————————————————The statistics are out regarding the dangers of TikTok and social media on our youth. It's no longer speculation, the numbers are staggering! So what can we do about it now that the match is already lit? In this episode, we discuss WHY it's so harmful for our children's self esteem and emotional well being, the nature of this unprecedented phenomenon (which our generation didn't grow up with), and expose where the sexual predators lurk. ——————————————————— If you own a smartphone or an iPad (which is probably 100% of you), this episode is a MUST-LISTEN.

I've had the honor of interviewing Dr. Shoshannah Frydman, Executive Director of @shalomtaskforce. Dr. Frydman is a trauma informed therapist and advocate where she has worked in the field of domestic abuse and family violence within the Jewish community for close to 20 years.

Sharing our pain with others is the hardest thing to do but oftentimes the best thing for our growth and healing. And we may not realize it but sharing our painful experiences will help others learn to deal with their own struggles. That's exactly what happened when @chani_lisbon opened up and shared her most vulnerable side with the world on a post about her #alopecia . Someone sent it to me and I started connecting with her because it really hit home for me.

Do you ever take your Judaism for granted? I, for one, have definitely taken it for granted. When you are born with something or used to something, complacency can kick in. ✡️ This is not the case with Ilana Schiffer @jewishbychoice. Previously known as Juliana, Ilana is a Jewish woman who converted to Judaism this past year. Her passion for Judaism is remarkable and inspiring. ✡️ Ilana let's us into her conversion process: the highs, the lows, and the fight to become Jewish. She gives great advice to people who want to convert to Judaism. In her gentle and kind fashion, Ilana reminds us about the Biblical commandment to “love the stranger”. This is a show you do not want to miss!

Yonina Lermer @kidkoach is not only one of the most sought after teachers in my kids elementary school, but she is also a Literacy Coach, Curriculum coordinator, and Teacher Mentor. Oh and did I mention that she is also a single mother to three awesome children? Yonina's energy and love for learning a is infectious and captivating. In this episode, Yonina, a recovering perfectionist, shares her story of self-development. Yonina teaches us the value in being present with ourselves and how that leads to an overall connection with everyone around you. This show is not to be missed!

This week I had the honor and pleasure of interviewing Ilana Ybgi. Ilana is a Brooklyn based artist and part of the Chabad community. Ilana is also a woman of color.

I sit down with @Efrat_Turk_lmhc and we speak about how marriage is already hard work but it's even more of a challenge when you're in close spaces with each other. Efrat is certified in Emotion Focused Therapy and the thing I love about this is that there is no blaming, shaming, and criticizing the other. Efrat helps us understand how to navigate the inevitable conflicts that arise in our marriages. This is an episode you do not want to miss!

Elisheva and I discuss the importance of a healthy sex education for parents and children alike. She created a dynamic online course that helps us understand how the way we are raised impacts our views on sexuality and our bodies. In this episode, we talk about the importance of having those difficult and awkward conversations with our children. But we also learn a lot about OURSELVES. This soul session episode is a must for EVERYONE!

I speak with the remarkable @Stephaniepollak about EVERYTHING including her co-dependent relationship with her late husband, how she coped with his tragic death, the challenges of raising a child alone, and choosing to be the HERO in her own story. You do not want to miss this extraordinary story

This episode could not have come at a better time, when we ALL could use a little boost with our #mentalhealth. . I sit down with @r.shapiro of @project_proactive and we speak about Work-Life balance, living life with intention and purpose, and why our mental health should be a priority! . We recorded this episode Pre-Coronavirus and I am hoping that this will give many of us HOPE and INSPIRATION of what kind of people we want to be when this is over...

Coping with Coronavirus, quarantine, home schooling, and more.

Many of us hear the term “genetic testing” and feel weirded out by it. We think it's something that's done only by certain people when they are expecting a baby. This episode with Estie Rose from @getjscreened will debunk the myths and misconceptions! Estie discusses how JScreen has transformed the Jewish community's (specifically the Persian Jewish community) access to genetic testing!

I sit down with the fabulous Sara Kupfer to discuss “the Shidduch crisis”. Is there an actual crisis? What we mainly talk about is how to incorporate Body Positivity in the Frum World. What is body positivity and how is it different from a positive body image? What does “Health At Every Size” mean? Find out by listening to Sara's story and how she is making it her life's mission to educate and empower people about body acceptance and weight neutral health.

Linda has been a passionate political advocate for Israel and World Jewry since the age of 19. She reveals to us not only about the importance of voting at the World Zionist Congress but why voting SPECIFICALLY for Slate 11 guarantees Jewish Continuity and a Jewish State! This podcast is a must listen for EVERY JEWISH PERSON! Voting is going on now till March 11th so make sure you listen to this episode and go on TorahfromSinai.com to cast your vote!