The Artscroll Studios' Podcast

In this episode of Inside ArtScroll, host Rabbi Shlomo Landau engages in a profound conversation with Rabbi Hillel Danziger, the general editor of the Schottenstein Edition of Ein Yaakov. This monumental project brings to life the aggadic portions of the Talmud, offering readers a comprehensive, annotated, and interpretive elucidation enriched with additional insights. Rabbi Danziger delves into the intricate process of translating and elucidating Ein Yaakov, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs encountered in making this classic work accessible to contemporary audiences. He shares personal reflections on the significance of aggadah in Jewish learning and its enduring relevance in today's world. This episode offers viewers an intimate glimpse into the dedication and scholarship that underpin one of ArtScroll's most ambitious undertakings. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or new to Talmudic studies, Rabbi Danziger's insights provide a deeper appreciation for the richness of Jewish tradition and the timeless wisdom contained within Ein Yaakov.

In this compelling episode, renowned author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer delves into his latest biography, Hacham Baruch: The Life and Legacy of Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim. Rabbi Seltzer offers an intimate look at the life of Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim, a towering figure who served as a spiritual leader of the Syrian Jewish community in Brooklyn and New Jersey for over five decades. Known as “the Rabbi's Rabbi,” Hacham Baruch was a gaon in Torah learning, a masterful orator, and a compassionate guide who helped transform his community into a beacon of Torah and chesed. Through heartfelt stories and personal reflections, Rabbi Seltzer brings to life the challenges, triumphs, and unwavering dedication of Hacham Baruch to his people and to Klal Yisrael. This interview not only honors the legacy of a great leader but also provides inspiration for all who seek to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

He was a towering leader, a brilliant orator, a beloved rebbi, and a visionary builder of Torah life in America. He was the Rabbi's Rabbi. He was Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim zt”l. In this unforgettable episode, Rabbi Shlomo Landau sits down with two people who knew Hacham Baruch best: his son, Yaacov Ben-Haim, and Rabbi Raymond Beyda, a close student who became a respected educator and leader in his own right. Together, they share personal memories, powerful insights, and moving stories about a man who changed the face of the Syrian Jewish community in America. From his decades of leadership on Brooklyn's Ocean Parkway to his role as the spiritual heart of an entire generation, Hacham Baruch's life was one of quiet greatness and enduring impact.

In this inspiring episode of Inside ArtScroll, we turn the spotlight on Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger, beloved writer and gifted storyteller, as he introduces his latest masterpiece, Moments of Greatness.  More than just a collection of remarkable short stories, this book is a treasury of soul-stirring narratives—each one selected with care to uplift, enlighten, and elevate. With heartfelt insight and genuine warmth, Rabbi Hisiger shares the behind-the-scenes process of finding stories that resonate, the responsibility of conveying authentic inspiration, and why these stories leave an indelible mark on the neshamah. A must-watch for anyone seeking depth, meaning, and a renewed appreciation for the power of a well-told story.

Discover why a day whose origins are shrouded in mystery has become one of the most joyous days on the Jewish calendar. In Lag Baomer: The Fire and the Soul, Rav Daniel Glatstein reveals the inner meaning of this hallowed day and why it has gained almost supernatural momentum in our times. Enter the world of Rebbi Shimon bar Yochai and the Zohar HaKadosh, and experience an exalted realm of Torah that will bring Klal Yisrael closer to the final redemption.

In this powerful episode of Inside ArtScroll, bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer discusses his gripping new release, Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh. Join us as he shares behind-the-scenes stories of courage, faith, and the extraordinary Divine protection experienced during wartime in Eretz Yisrael. With his trademark energy and vivid storytelling, Rabbi Seltzer brings to life the unforgettable moments and the unwavering emunah of Klal Yisrael in the face of danger. This is an episode you don't want to miss!

In this exclusive interview, bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer shares with Rabbi Shlomo Landau the inspiration behind The Haggadah with Stories, his remarkable new commentary on the Haggadah. With his signature storytelling prowess, Rabbi Seltzer helps injecting the seder with excitement, weaving together captivating insights, personal experiences, and powerful lessons that will enhance your Seder like never before. Don't miss this fascinating conversation—watch now and discover a fresh, uplifting perspective on the Haggadah!

88 years old…he waited, davened and never lost hope. And then he finally held the baby in his arms. This is the incredible true story of Rav and Rebbetzin Zvi Kushelevsky, whose emunah electrified and inspired the Torah world. The story of how faith and prayer can bring miracles. And, of course, the story of little Eliyahu, the baby he waited for all his life. Told in part by Rebbetzin Kushelevsky herself, Miracle Baby is more than an uplifting story with a “happy ending.” It's a source of chizuk and inspiration for all of us, a guide to finding strength in tefillah and trust in Hashem's plan.

Rabbi Yaakov Bender is unique. He's a nationally acclaimed Rosh Yeshivah who has changed the face of chinuch, as well as a close talmid of many gedolei Torah. This book is also unique, an entirely new genre in which he shares stories and memories of seven decades of fascinating encounters with great men – and great women, starting with his mother, the beloved Rebbetzin Bender -- all rooted in beautiful Torah ideas. It's like enjoying a one-on-one conversation with the Rosh Yeshivah! A Heart for Another is part memoir, part stories – and total Torah inspiration.

Revolutionize the Way You Look at Chanukah and Tu B'Shevat (and your life)! Chanukah – a time of joyous celebration — the radiance of menorahs glimmering in the darkness, the family gatherings, the traditional foods and songs … Yet there is so much more depth and meaning to the holiday, so many rich and inspiring lessons it has to elevate our lives. And though Tu B'Shevat is often almost overlooked, or simply marked by a few moments of eating dried fruit, it, too, is a day of profound spiritual awakening and significance. The unexplored depths of Chanukah and Tu B'Shevat beckon the thoughtful and perceptive Jew to discover the treasures that lie beneath the surface. In this collection of wide-ranging, stimulating, and original essays, Rabbi Daniel Glatstein draws upon a vast array of sources, many of them rare and some almost unknown, to show us the deep inner dimensions of these two holidays, and how they relate to contemporary times. What makes the mitzvah of Chanukah candles “beloved to Hashem” — and why is the mitzvah so hard to fulfill properly? Why did we need the miracle of the oil at all … and what does it tell us about our own daily lives? Why was the miracle of Chanukah not recorded in Tanach? What is the connection between Tu B'Shevat and repentance — and what is the difference between the teshuvah of Rosh HaShanah and that of Tu B'Shevat? Rav and Founder of Machon Maggid Harakiah in Cedarhurst, New York, Rabbi Glatstein is one of the contemporary Jewish world's most popular speakers and respected maggidei shiur. As you read these brilliant and illuminating essays, you will understand why his more than 5,000 shiurim have garnered literally millions of views and downloads on Torahanytime.com and other venues, while his Hebrew-language sefarim, too, have been acclaimed throughout the Torah world. Like the glowing flames of the Menorah, The Light and the Splendor brings us a luminous new understanding of Chanukah and Tu B'Shevat, an important contribution to Torah Literature and a precious gift to us all.

While still very young, Rabbi Moshe Neuman became the menahel of Bais Yaakov of Queens. He started with 27 girls in something that could hardly be called a school building. In his fifty years of leadership, as the school grew and grew and grew, thousands of girls received his chinuch — and his caring. Caring? This menahel would bend over to tie a preschooler's shoes. He'd discreetly help an impoverished seventh-grader with funds to buy a dress for yom tov, and give a surly sixth-grader a bowl of cereal when he learned she'd skipped breakfast. Discipline when needed? Absolutely. Leadership when necessary? For sure. But firmness was always coupled with love and respect for parents, teachers and, above all, students. Because He Cared is the story of a wealthy and privileged child in Germany … who became a young and impoverished refugee in America … who became a champion stickball player morphing into a masmid … who did NOT become the tax lawyer he'd envisioned, instead dedicating his life to teaching Jewish children. Beautifully told by master storyteller Rabbi Yechiel Spero, this is the story – these are the countless stories – of the greatness that happens when someone really, truly cares.

A Compelling Portrait of One of the Greatest and Most Influential of Our Sages Most of us learned the familiar story as children: Akiva, the illiterate shepherd who became, with his wife's unswerving support, one of the greatest sages of our history. Now, Avrohom Yom Tov (Abie) Rotenberg shows us how to truly understand the story of R' Akiva, in all its depth and glory. Who was this man, whom even Moshe Rabbeinu hailed for his greatness? What did his wife Rachel see in him to make her abandon her wealthy life for one of grinding poverty? How did he find comfort in the ruins after the Churban? And how did a man whose life was so full of turbulent challenges serve as our model of optimism, hope and, above all, emunah? This is a serious work of Torah scholarship that holds our attention with its absorbing details and often surprising insights. We will discover the many facets of this great sage – and we will be inspired.

Prepare to Meet the King. From Rosh Chodesh Elul to Yom Kippur, we embark on a transformative journey to draw closer to Hashem, our Father and our King. In Steps to the Throne, Rabbi Nosson Muller, menahel of Yeshivas Tiferes Tzvi/Joan Dachs Bais Yaakov in Chicago and a renowned mechanech and public speaker, guides us through these holy days with profound wisdom and heartfelt stories. His short and powerful insights will help you seize the unparalleled opportunities we are given during this special time of Divine assistance. Discover the fresh start that Elul offers and learn to rebuild your connection with the King. Immerse yourself in the power of Selichos, uncover the hidden meanings of the Rosh Hashanah simanim, deepen your appreciation of the holiday prayers, and experience the infinite closeness to Hashem that culminates in Yom Kippur. Prepare to elevate your spiritual journey during these forty days – and, indeed, during the entire year — with Rabbi Muller's expert guidance in Steps to the Throne.

Today, Rabbi Feivel Mashinsky is the director of Kupath Ezrah of Rockland County. Decades ago, the longtime Monsey resident was a talmid of the Klausenberger Rebbe zt”l, and the interactions that he had with the rebbe forever changed his life. Rabbi Mashinsky merited a close connection to the rebbe, including writing his shiurim and shmuessen. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Mashinsky, with his special chein and eloquence, and with remarkable recall, takes us back to a different time and a different world, to those years when he merited basking in the greatness of the Klausenberger Rebbe, providing a glimpse into the remarkable life depicted in the new ArtScroll biography. [Buy the new book HERE.]

From the time that Rabbi Chaim Aryeh Zev Ginzberg was a young yeshiva bochur learning in Eretz Yisroel through today as a seasoned rov for almost 40 years, he had the merit to do what most of us just dream about. He had developed a close and personal connection to almost all of the gedolei hador of the previous generation and spent a great deal of time with many of them. He would personally ask them hundreds of contemporary shailos in all areas of halacha and hashkafah, and he immediately committed their responses in writing, often reviewing with them what he had written. These responses comprise the sefer Shailos Uteshuvos Divrei Chachomim, which, in a new edition, contains hundreds of shailos that were never publicized before, including an expanded hashkafah section. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Ginzberg discusses this new sefer, as well as his interactions with the gedolei hador, sharing fascinating stories and reminiscences. [Buy the new book HERE.]

Angels in Orange contains incredible stories of emunah, hashgachah, miracles and courage as more than 1,700 United Hatzalah volunteers rescued and treated the wounded on Simchas Torah, October 7th, 2023. Bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer has written their amazing stories of courage and survival with great sensitivity for reader's feelings. We are inspired and uplifted as we read about their mesiras nefesh, Hashem's Hashgachah Pratis, the miracles that almost every volunteer saw and experienced, and their selfless caring for their fellow Jews during one of the most dangerous times in Israel's history. In this special Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Seltzer – who visited ArtScroll's studio from his home in Israel – talks about this phenomenal book, his other bestselling works, and his career as one of Klal Yisrael's most beloved authors. [Buy the new book HERE.]

A life lived with tranquility and confidence. Success in business. Protection in times of danger. And, greatest of all, a way to strengthen our connection to Hashem. Yes, the blessings of bitachon are immeasurable. But how do we truly incorporate such trust in Hashem into our hearts? The Talmud Yerushalmi, the Zohar, the Maharal and many other sources offer us a time-tested and effective means for embedding bitachon firmly within us. The Maharal even states that this technique is a segulah for success in business and protection in times of war. What is this ultra-powerful technique? Pesukim of bitachon. Reciting specific verses, these sources tell us, is an extremely powerful way of incorporating bitachon – and all its blessings - into every aspect of our lives. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi David Sutton, author of A Daily Dose of Pesukim of Bitachon, describes how when we internalize these pesukim, we will transform our very essence. In his book and in this interview, Rabbi Sutton gives us a greater understanding of the many lessons we can learn from these pesukim. Through stories and insights, he shows us how to use the pesukim to strengthen our bitachon. Watch and be uplifted. [Buy the new book HERE.]

In Reb Reuven Feinstein on the Haggadah, Rav Sholom Reuven Feinstein, the esteemed and beloved Rosh Yeshivah of Yeshiva of Staten Island, guides us through the Seder. Indeed, as we enjoy this Haggadah masterpiece, we begin to actually feel that we are sitting with the Rosh Yeshiva at his Seder table. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, the Rosh Yeshivah reminisces for us what Pesach was like at the home of his father, Hagaon Rav Moshe Feinstein. The Rosh Yeshivah also offers fascinating chinuch insights and general chizuk in his trademark down-to-earth manner. Watch and be inspired! [Buy the new Haggadah HERE.]

Rav and founder of Machon Maggid Harakiah in Cedarhurst, NY, Rabbi Daniel Glatstein is one of the contemporary Jewish world's most popular speakers and respected maggidei shiur. In his unique Haggadah Shel Pesach, he treats the Haggadah text not as a series of unconnected “vertlach,” but as a living, unified document, mirroring the slavery, miracles, and ultimate liberation in its words and structure. In this fascinating interview, Rabbi Glatstein gives us a deeper understanding of fundamental components of the Haggadah, and, indeed, of the entire experience of Yetzias Mitzrayim. [Buy the new book HERE.]

Rav Yisroel Alter, the Beis Yisroel, became the Rebbe of Gur at a time of deep darkness. Just a few years earlier, tens of thousands of Gerrer chassidim had perished in the Holocaust, and the few who'd survived faced the daunting challenge of beginning new lives. Rav Yisroel became the Rebbe – and he rebuilt a world, miraculously leading Gerrer chassidus to almost unimaginable levels of greatness. At the same time he was a loving, empathetic, wise shepherd, gently and patiently giving people the time and space they needed to grow. In this interview, Shlomo Werdiger, who merited a unique relationship with the Beis Yisroel and the other admorim of Gur, speaks about the immeasurable impact of the Rebbe and how the Rebbe was there to help and guide and find the greatness of every Jew. [Buy the new book HERE.]

We call it “hashgachah pratis” — the understanding that Hashem is continuously in our lives, and not just in historic events and obvious miracles. Hashgachah pratis tells us that Hashem is with us in traffic jams, in hospital wards, and while we're waiting for a delayed plane to take off. He is with us even in our times of suffering. Everything, but everything, reflects His Will and His goodness. And the more we are aware of the hashgachah pratis around us – the more we are able to see it clearly! In his new book, Living With Hashgachah Pratis, and in this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, author of the classic Praying With Fire series, shows us how to become aware of hashgachah pratis in our world, and how such a consciousness will ignite our emunah, enhance our gratitude, increase our merits, and lead us to a happier, more secure and meaningful life. [Buy the new book HERE.]

In this entertaining Inside ArtScroll Interview, Rabbi Joey Haber, rabbi of the Magen David shul in Flatbush and the Beit Yosef shul in Deal who has inspired tens of thousands of people worldwide with his talks, discusses the impact of the Vayimaen movement and the new book by Rabbi Yechiel Spero based on the inspiration of the renowned speakers of the global Vayimaen initiative. [Buy the new book HERE.]

In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll Interview, Rav Moshe Tuvia Lieff, venerable rav of Agudas Yisroel Bais Binyomin of Flatbush, discusses the impact of the Vayimaen movement and the new book by Rabbi Yechiel Spero based on the inspiration of the renowned speakers of the global Vayimaen initiative. [Buy the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Nosson Scherman is an icon. He's been called “the father of contemporary Torah literature” and for good reason. From the day so many years back when he partnered with Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz and Rabbi Sheah Brander to the present time, Rabbi Scherman's contributions to the world of Torah and Judaism have been transformational. In the following interview, which has been divided into two segments, Rabbi Scherman takes us on a trip down memory lane, from his youth in Newark, New Jersey, attending a local public school, to his years at Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, his career in chinuch, and ultimately his world-changing work through ArtScroll/Mesorah. Here is Part II of this fascinating conversation filled with history, stories, and insights from one of the treasures of our people. Watch and enjoy.

Rabbi Nosson Scherman is an icon. He's been called “the father of contemporary Torah literature” and for good reason. From the day so many years back when he partnered with Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz and Rabbi Sheah Brander to the present time, Rabbi Scherman's contributions to the world of Torah and Judaism have been transformational. In the following interview, which has been divided into two segments, Rabbi Scherman takes us on a trip down memory lane, from his youth in Newark, New Jersey, attending a local public school, to his years at Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, his career in chinuch, and ultimately his world-changing work through ArtScroll/Mesorah. This is a fascinating conversation filled with history, stories, and insights from one of the treasures of our people. Watch and enjoy.

In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we speak to Shmuel Botnick, the extraordinarily talented author of the bestselling ArtSroll biography of Rav Nota Greenblatt zt”l, taking us behind the scenes of this most unique book – and this most extraordinary rav, posek, and leader, whose light spread from Memphis to Jews across the world. [Purchase the book HERE.]

They are two of the Jewish world's most well-known and beloved authors. Mrs. Libby Lazewnik and Mrs. Miriam Zakon are also best of friends. In this Inside ArtScroll Interview, we get to hear from these literary giants, who reminisce about their respective careers and their special relationship. And Libby speaks about her brand-new series, Starlight Sisters, which has captivated young readers. Watch and be entertained! [Purchase the book HERE.]

From a quiet community in Memphis, Tennessee came a man whose Torah brilliance, profound compassion, and willingness to go anywhere, anytime, to help another made him the rav and posek for thousands of Jews throughout America. Within Memphis, he founded one of America's first Hebrew day schools, saving an entire community from leaving Orthodox Judaism. Nationally, he helped develop the kashrus standards that we all enjoy today. He brought countless Jews back to Torah observance before the kiruv movement ever started. And he traveled hundreds of thousands of miles to write kosher gitten, bills of divorce, enabling men and women to rebuild their lives. His name was Rav Nota Greenblatt, and his story – and the many stories others tell about him – will amaze you. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we speak to Rav Nota's son and daughter-in-law, Rabbi Dovid and Mrs. Debbie Greenblatt, who describe Rav Nota's humility and Torah greatness, and the endless compassion of this very unique rav. Purchase your copy of Rav Nota on ArtScroll.com

In his new book, Rebbi Meir Baal HaNess and the Eternal Children of Hashem, Rabbi Daniel Glatstein welcomes us to the world of Rebbi Meir Baal HaNess, a place where the loving embrace of Hashem to His people is tangible. We discover the power of the words "Eloka D'Meir Aneini" and how Rebbi Meir's worldview is the very foundation of Torah. Rabbi Glatstein is one of the Jewish world's most popular speakers and respected maggidei shiur. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, he discusses this landmark work, which will uplift your heart even in the most trying times. [Purchase the book HERE.]

He started literally with nothing, and built an empire of business – and chesed. He was a brilliant businessman whom Rabbi Moshe Sherer called “the malach of shalom.” He was a man who blended startling financial acumen with mussar hashkafah – and made it work! He was the unique, inimitable Reb Benny Fishoff. B'Ahavah, Benny – the story of Reb Benny Fishoff – is not a typical “rags to riches” story. Rather, it's a “riches to riches” story. The story of a young man, sole survivor of his family after the Holocaust, who took the riches of chassidic devotion, the riches of years of intense yeshivah learning, the riches of memories of his warm and loving family, and who used those riches to build, to listen, to counsel and to enrich others. It is a story of amazing business savvy combined with profound mentchlichkeit, a story filled with siyata diShmaya and ultimate triumph. In this compelling Inside ArtScroll episode, we get to hear from Benny's sons, Dovi Fishoff and Avi Fishoff, who describe how Reb Benny went from Lodz to Shanghai to the executive suites of New York City skyscrapers – entering the hearts of countless Jews whom he helped with money, advice, and overflowing love. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

The Ribnitzer Rebbe was a tzaddik, a ba'al mofeis (a miracle worker), and so much more. He became a living legend, the address for thousands seeking berachos, first in Russia, then in Eretz Yisrael and, eventually in America. His intense avodah included fasting, non-stop Torah learning, and hours and hours of profound tefillah. Throughout all his trials and tribulations, Reb Chaim Zanvil, the Ribnitzer Rebbe, found a way to serve Hashem. One of those who merited to serve the rebbe for years, forging a close and personal relationship, was Reb Moshe Tzvi Berkowitz. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, we sit down with Reb Moshe Tzvi to learn about what he learned from the rebbe, and to hear firsthand stories about his interactions with the rebbe – including the rebbe's famous “teniah” (tune) that he made famous, and so much more. Watch and be uplifted. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Saying Kaddish for a loved one. It is one of the most well-observed Jewish traditions. However, its cryptic language often makes this sacred and hallowed prayer feel unrelatable. In a powerful and inspiring new book, Rabbi Yechiel Spero changes that, using classic Torah sources, insights, and — of course! — stories to explore the essence and, indeed, the soul of Kaddish. In The Soul of Kaddish, you find chizuk, hope and encouragement in the words of Kaddish. In the following Inside ArtScroll interview, we speak to Rabbi Spero about this incredible book, and about finding chizuk in challenging times – and always. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rabbi Chaim Aryeh Zev Ginzberg is a beloved rav in Cedarhurst who has engaged thousands of readers with his incisive articles in the Torah world's most prestigious periodicals. Rabbi Ginzberg has a genius for weaving together personal stories, Torah hashkafah, encouragement and chizuk, communal issues, and, yes, gentle and spot-on mussar. In his book, Rays of Hope, and in this Inside ArtScroll interview, he takes us “up close and personal” with memories of his own nisyonos — including his terrifying bout with Covid, when the doctors felt there was no hope left for him, as well as the losses of his beloved daughter Sarala and his oldest grandson, Chanoch Jeger. Rabbi Ginzberg's courageous and uplifting responses to these losses — which include his founding of the well-known Ohel Sarala global initiative — give us chizuk and meaning to the challenges we all face. Watch and be inspired.   [Purchase the book HERE.]

Reb Moyshe Silk, an American attorney, writer, and former government official, is quite an accomplished individual. Much of the world knows him as Mitchell Silk, a brilliant legal mind, an authority on Chinese law and infrastructure finance, and the only Chassidic Jew ever confirmed by the Senate to one of the highest positions in the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and, for that matter, the U.S. Government. Many people are privileged to know him as Reb Moyshe, a talmid chacham of note, a gifted writer, and a talented teacher of Torah.  Despite the many accolades he's received, perhaps Reb Moyshe's most notable accomplishment to date is his translation and elucidation of Kedushas Levi, one of the greatest Chassidic classics on the Torah, written by Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. Kedushas Levi has been treasured and studied for more than two centuries, and now, Reb Moyshe's magnificent edition, published by the Mesorah Heritage Foundation in three volumes, brings Kedushas Levi to English readers in all its grandeur. We spoke to Reb Moyshe to gain his insight into the effort he invested in producing this work. [Purchase the set HERE.]

In the more than five decades that he was involved in Agudath Israel of America, rising from a member of their youth group to the Executive Vice President of the organization, Rabbi Shmuel Bloom encountered literally thousands of fascinating people: gedolei Yisrael, dedicated askanim, politicians from all sides of the political spectrum, and so many “just plain Jews” – who proved, by their actions, that there is no such thing as a “just plain Jew.” Rabbi Bloom met with gedolim at Agudah events, at meetings of the Moetzes Gedolei Torah, and in quiet, urgent conferences. He chatted with them in cars and on Shabbos afternoons at conventions. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we hear stories from Rabbi Bloom, many of them not widely known, of generations of greatness. In these “stories behind the stories,” more of which you'll find in Rabbi Bloom's book, On the Shoulders of Giants, we gain a unique understanding of the inner workings of daas Torah, in all its glory. We also meet the Jewish people's askanim, up close and personal. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rabbi Nachum Lehman, founder and director of CSB CARE, has devoted his life to helping people with disabilities acquire or regain their ability to daven, learn, teach and be independent and productive members of their community. It all started in 1996 when he was asked to write a program to help someone continue learning after he lost his sight. The project was extremely successful and Rabbi Lehman came to realize how many others needed similar assistance. The original software evolved into a program for low vision and reading impaired clients and was further configured to help with communication for ALS clients. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, we learn more about how Rabbi Lehman has enabled the aforementioned clients to utilize ArtScroll's works, while sharing a hands-on look at some of the incredible programs he's developed.

Rabbi Aaron Brafman was the much-beloved and revered menahel of Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. He was also a respected author and a dedicated askan. But more: He was a man who loved every Jew, who saw potential where others saw failure. In the words of a talmid, he was a man “who lived and breathed Klal Yisrael; whose days were filled with Torah and maasim tovim … and most of all, who epitomized the term ‘rebbi.'” In this interview, we spoke to Rabbi Brafman's son, Rabbi Avrohom Baruch Brafman, and Rabbi Brafman's close talmid, Rabbi Dov Keilson.

Rabbi Aaron Brafman was the much-beloved and revered menahel of Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. He was also a respected author and a dedicated askan. But more: He was a man who loved every Jew, who saw potential where others saw failure. In the words of a talmid, he was a man “who lived and breathed Klal Yisrael; whose days were filled with Torah and maasim tovim … and most of all, who epitomized the term ‘rebbi.'” In this interview, the author of Rabbi Brafman's biography, Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, gives us a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary man.  

Rabbi Moshe Sherer not only changed history, he made history. After a half-century of Rabbi Sherer's wise, visionary, charismatic, and indefatigable advocacy and leadership, the Torah community was luxuriant, respected, and influential — and the gedolei Torah were its authoritative voice. Much that we take for granted today was shepherded by him through Congress and legislatures, through executive chambers and the courts, such as aid to yeshivos, the rights of Torah institutions, and employment security for Shabbos observers. Rabbi Sherer was at home in many worlds. He was the loyal servant and confidant of great Torah sages; and a friend and adviser of people in the highest echelons of power – but he was attentive to the needs of the humblest “Reb Yisrael.” He was a visionary, yet he had insight into the art of the possible. Now, 25 years since his passing, Inside ArtScroll features a scintillating interview with his son, Rav Shimshon Sherer, who shares personal memories of his legendary father, who was center stage, yet remained an intensely private, loving family man. This is an interview you don't want to miss.

In his brilliant essay on ahavas Yisrael, the Beis HaLevi, Rav Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, beautifully explains the mitzvah of loving your fellow Jew. Who does the mitzvah apply to? When does it apply? What do I need to do to fulfill it properly? The Beis HaLevi also provides incentives to help us do the mitzvah in the best possible way. Translated and elucidated by Rabbi David Sutton, author of ArtScroll's bestselling Beis HaLevi on Bitachon, Beis Halevi on Ahavas Yisrael contains wonderful insights, uplifting stories, and in-depth appendices, as well as a special section of touching anecdotes about gedolim from a range of generations and communities. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Sutton gives us an inside look as this life-changing work.

In ArtScroll's Kisvei HaRambam, writings of the Rambam, including his famous 13 Principles of Faith and related selections, are translated phrase-by-phrase, annotated, and elucidated with additional insights. Enlightening, inspiring, and engrossing, this ArtScroll commentary provides an opportunity to engage with fundamental aspects of the Torah in English and understand them clearly as never before. This Inside ArtScroll interview features Rabbi Shnayor Burton, one of the brilliant talmidei chachomim who worked on this project and other prominent works. The conversation is informative, educational – and compelling.  

An Israeli child is born in a Ukrainian bomb shelter -- and United Hatzalah brings her home under fire ... A United Hatzalah volunteer scales a 12-foot-wall – and is the first to respond to the tragedy of Meron ... Eli Beer, founder of United Hatzalah, slips and breaks his leg racing to an emergency -- and manages to crawl to the choking child and save her life ... The amazing work of Israel's United Hatzalah began, incredibly, when five-year-old Eli Beer witnessed a terror attack and dreamed of being the one to save the victim. While still a young teen, Eli set out to make that dream come true, creating an underground network of pioneering EMTs who were determined to bring their life-saving skills to victims in only 90 seconds, no matter where they were. Eli Beer's book, 90 Seconds, written by the mega-talented Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, is the story of how a boy who failed in school created one of the world's largest all-volunteer emergency services. It's the story of dramatic rescues, sometimes under fire. Of life-changing and life-saving innovations such as the “ambucycle.” Of bringing United Hatzalah's lifesaving experience to Nepal, Haiti, and, most recently, Ukraine, and their heart-rending rescue work in the Surfside and Versailles wedding hall tragedies. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we get to learn, from Eli himself, more of the story of how with determination, vision, self-sacrifice and compassion -- and, of course, siyata D'Shmaya -- lives can be saved and dreams can come true. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

In Living Chessed, Rabbi Avrohom Asher Makovsky shares with us many Torah sources that talk about chessed, inspirational insights and guidance and, above all, stories of how chessed – even something as small as a compliment, a smile, or a hug – can transform the lives of both the one giving and the one receiving the chessed. In brief, readable chapters, we will discover how everyone can be a great baal chessed. In Living Chessed and in this uplifting Inside Artscroll interview, Rabbi Makovsky shows us how we can, indeed, “live chessed” throughout our days, enriching the lives of others. And enriching our own lives as well. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Fishel Schachter makes us think. Makes us laugh. And makes us better. Better parents, better people, better Jews. Rabbi Schachter knows what happens in our lives. The little annoyances and the big challenges. The happiness and the angst. He knows what happens to us – because it often happens to him as well! And when “life” happens – the vanishing parking space, the bored kids on vacation, the last minute pre-Shabbos misadventures – he knows what we should do. Learn a lesson of hashgachah pratis. Think of a story that enhances our emunah. Discover an insight that puts everything in a different – more positive – light. Remember to thank Hashem for everything. And, of course, smile and find the joy in His plans for us. In Did This Ever Happen to You? Rabbi Schachter, a popular rebbi, speaker, maggid shiur, columnist and storyteller, combines practical advice in chinuch and middos development with anecdotes and stories that are always engaging and often laugh-out-loud funny. Did This Ever Happen To You? touches on topics ranging from seeing hashgachah pratis in our lives to mitzvos such as hachnasas orchim and giving tzedakah; from strengthening our bitachon to outlooks on tefillah. In this exciting Inside ArtScroll interview, like in his book, we see that no one tells a story quite like Rabbi Schachter, using stories as an incredibly effective - and often funny - means of guiding us through whatever challenges we are facing. Watch…and be prepared to laugh and to learn. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Twenty years ago, Roy (Yisroel) and Leah (Linda) Neuberger electrified the Jewish world with Roy's book, From Central Park to Sinai, sharing the story of their return to Torah and Jewish life. Now, in the riveting From Sinai to Yerushalayim, bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer joins them on their fascinating journey, revealing new and unusual parts of the Neubergers' lives, both before they became observant and in the two decades since they shared their story and became world-traveling ambassadors of Torah. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, Roy and Leah describe how they were born to wealth and privilege, and educated in the most prestigious schools. Roy and Leah should have been contented and happy, and yet something was missing, always missing ... until they found Torah. In this interview, and in the new page-turner of a book, prepare to discover an adventure-filled life, full of surprises and inspiration. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Ron Yitzchok Eisenman is the rav of Congregation Ahavas Israel in Passaic, New Jersey, and a renowned speaker and writer. Born and raised in Brooklyn, after marriage he spent years learning in kollel  in  Eretz Yisroel and in the States. After teaching Torah as a rebbi in yeshiva for two decades, in 1997 he was appointed as the rav of Ahavas Israel, which today hosts forty minyanim a day. In addition to his rabbinic functions, Rabbi Eisenman is a professor at Lander College for Women and has published three books, including Shul With A View, which allows the reader to enter the world of a shul rabbi, brimming with unforgettable personalities, joyous events, and sometimes tragic misunderstandings. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, you'll revel in Rabbi Eisenman's honesty and be intrigued by his life story. Rabbi Eisenman has a way with words that brings people and places to life, and a sense of humor that shines. Watch and enjoy. [Buy the book HERE]

Rav Elya Meir Sorotzkin zt”l became a rosh yeshivah at a very young age and, with “blood, sweat and tears,” as he would often say, built his yeshiva into a premier institution, and, more importantly, built individual talmidim. Because he personally went through the painstaking process of self-discovery and growth, he was able to identify with the struggles and triumphs of his talmidim in a way that few could. This Inside ArtScroll interview features a conversation with a close talmid, Rabbi Tzvi Uhr, who describes the lifelong impact that his rebbi had on his talmidim, giving us an appreciation for how every page in the biography of Rav Elya Meir Sorotzkin will inspire and uplift us. [Buy the book HERE]

Nachman's Schachter's Ten Steps to Eternity is a unique book. It is a sefer that examines the ten nisyonos of Avraham Avinu through the eyes of the Midrash, with fascinating details and thought-provoking insights. It is also a book of many true, original, never-before-published stories about Avraham's “children” – contemporary Jews who have incorporated Avraham's beliefs and accomplishments into their own lives. This combination of insights and incredible stories leaves one amazed by how our fellow Jews courageously and faithfully follow our forefather's holy path. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, the author discusses why he wrote the book – and why he thinks every Jew will gain immeasurably from reading it. [Buy the book HERE]

Rabbi Heshy Kleinman changed the way tens of thousands of Jews daven through the bestselling classics, Praying With Fire, Praying With Fire 2, and Yearning With Fire. He also showed us how to truly take advantage of the powerful gift of teshuvah in his book, The Power of Teshuvah. Rabbi Kleinman lectures internationally on tefillah and other topics and is the co-founder of the V'Ani Tefillah Foundation, dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance and power of prayer, and to providing education, inspiration, and tools for more sincere, powerful and effective tefillah. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Kleinman shares details about his background, how he got into book-writing, and his vision for a 40-day worldwide teshuvah initiative.  

Bitachon. How to get it. How to strengthen it. How to learn to rely on Hashem. In every part of our lives. Bitachon – knowing that you can fully rely on Hashem, and only on Hashem – is an essential part of our Chovos HaLevavos, our “service of the heart.” It is the wondrous gift that enables us to enjoy the blessing of “menuchas hanefesh” – a hard-to-define concept that includes serenity, tranquility, and peace of mind. In his newest book, A Daily Dose of Bitachon, Rabbi David Sutton, author of many important works including Beis HaLevi on Bitachon and Embrace Shabbos, shares with us more than 130 readings, designed for the consistent daily use that enables truly effective change. Drawn from the classic wisdom of the Chovos HaLevavos Shaar HaBitachon, these insights into this “service of the heart” are remarkably contemporary, speaking to our own challenges. Each reading ends with a practical takeaway, ensuring that we incorporate bitachon into our everyday encounters. And of course, Rabbi Sutton shares stories that show us the amazing power of bitachon.   In this Inside ArtScroll episode, Rabbi Sutton discusses the new book, including how to reframe our thoughts, how to properly balance human effort with bitachon in Hashem, and how to strengthen our connection to Hashem both in good times and hard ones. This book is a must-have – and this interview is as engaging as the book is! Watch and enjoy. Buy the book HERE!

Meaningful Minute founder and coordinator Nachi Gordon understands the power of one minute: every word a block with which you can build, every thought filled with potential to uplift – short, but so powerful. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Nachi discusses his Meaningful Minute book and his journey working to creating the Meaningful Minute platform, ensuring that the meaningful messages he transmits have the power to impact people's lives positively. Buy the book HERE!