February 8 · 1 hr 18 min
BT
Religion & Spirituality
Behind the Bima
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg
Rabbis Efrem Goldberg and Philip Moskowitz from Boca Raton Synagogue, shmooze about contemporary issues. Every week features an unscripted and lively discussion, special guests, and a behind-the-scenes look at leading a large and dynamic Jewish community.
- 222 episodes
- Updated June 24
Episodes222
- BTFebruary 3 · 1 hr 23 min
Lessons from a Lifetime of Paying Attention: Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter
In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter for a reflective conversation about dating, raising children, and navigating relationships with emotional awareness. Drawing from lived experience, she shares insights about paying attention to people over time, exercising restraint in sensitive moments, and understanding how judgment develops slowly through watching, listening, and not rushing to respond.
- BTJanuary 27 · 1 hr 10 min
Bringing Out the Best in the Next Generation: Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum
How do you guide children and students without overcorrecting... or staying silent when guidance is needed? In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum shares hard-earned wisdom on education, parenting, and the responsibility that comes with being trusted to shape others.
- BTJanuary 20 · 1 hr 16 min
From Chart-Topper to Yeshiva Bochur: Alex Clare
Alex Clare rose to global fame through music, but success didn’t quiet the deeper questions he was carrying. In this episode of Behind the Bima, the Rabbis speak with Alex about faith, teshuvah, Torah learning, and what it means to choose meaning without abandoning your voice.
- BTJanuary 13 · 1 hr 15 min
The Demands of Teaching 13,000 Classes: Rabbi Daniel Glatstein
In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg speaks with Rabbi Daniel Glatstein about discipline, responsibility, and the unseen demands of teaching Torah at scale. Drawing on years of experience and nearly 13,000 classes taught, Rabbi Glatstein explains why shortcuts don’t last, why boundaries matter, and why seriousness is not optional when real lives are shaped by learning.
- BTJanuary 6 · 1 hr 13 min
When Seconds Decide Lives: Eli Beer
Eli Beer returns to Behind the Bima to share how United Hatzalah continues to save lives in Israel amid war, trauma, and exhaustion, and what it takes to lead with purpose during crisis. From emergency response to faith, fundraising, and unity, this conversation reveals the human heart behind one of Israel’s most extraordinary organizations.
- BTJanuary 1 · 1 hr 13 min
America's First Orthodox Jewish Female Mayor: Michele Weiss
Michele Weiss, Mayor-Elect of University Heights, Ohio, joins Rabbi Efrem Goldberg for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, Jewish identity, and public responsibility in challenging times. From running for office as a Jewish woman to confronting antisemitism at the local level, this episode explores why courage in leadership often begins closest to home.
- BTDec 25, 2025 · 46 min
The Disturbing Truth About the United Nations: Hillel Neuer of UN Watch
Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, joins Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz for a candid conversation about confronting antisemitism and disinformation at the United Nations. From exposing the UN’s moral double standards to fighting propaganda after October 7, this episode goes behind the scenes of one of the most consequential battles facing the Jewish people today.
- BTDec 18, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
When Silence Was No Longer an Option: Congressman Randy Fine
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg speaks with Congressman Randy Fine about standing visibly Jewish in public life, including Fine’s historic decision to wear a kippah on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives amid rising antisemitism. The conversation explores Jewish pride, leadership under pressure, Israel after October 7, and the personal cost of moral clarity in today’s political climate.
- BTJun 12, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
An Anonymous Hero: Inside IDF's Elite Unit 669
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. His face is blurred, and his name is redacted by the Israeli government, but his story of heroism and resilience must be told. In a powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with "Guy," an active-duty sergeant major in the IDF's legendary Unit 669—the elite airborne search and rescue commando force. Guy provides a rare look inside the grueling physical and psychological training designed to forge soldiers who can run toward danger and rescue anyone, from any situation, under overwhelming fire. He shares a gripping, firsthand account of October 7th, from the initial chaotic call-up to driving into a warzone, treating endless casualties amidst a stream of terrorists, liberating kibbutzim, and the surreal moments that followed. Guy also opens up about the invisible wounds of war, the dark humor soldiers use to survive, and how he and his fiancée, Noga—a commander in her own right—navigated their relationship through text messages, not knowing if the other was still alive. Learn how Guy's private journal, chronicling his service, unexpectedly became a best-selling book in Israel, giving a voice to an entire generation of soldiers. Find Guy's new book, "The Rescue: October 7th Through the Eyes of Israel's Top Rescue Commandos," on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
- BTMay 21, 2025 · 55 min
From Shepherd to IDF Hero: Yoel Zilberman's Unstoppable Journey
🇮🇱 From Shepherd to Seal to Nation-Builder | Major Yoel Zilberman | Behind the Bima 📍 Recorded live in Boca Raton, FL In this unforgettable episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Major Yoel Zilberman, an elite IDF commander and the founder & CEO of Hashomer HaChadash (Hasham)—Israel’s largest volunteer organization, mobilizing over 300,000 volunteers to defend Israel’s farms, strengthen the land, and raise the next generation of Zionist leaders. From his humble beginnings as a shepherd in the Galilee to serving in Israel’s Navy Seals, and now leading a national movement reshaping Israel’s borders, Major Zilberman shares powerful insights on: • What October 7th revealed about Israel’s vulnerabilities and resilience • The crisis of food security and land abandonment in Israel—and why food independence is a matter of national security • How his tent on a hill became a symbol of resistance, community, and rebirth • Why real leadership starts on the land, and not in politics • His call to action for Jews around the world to protect, work, and love the land of Israel This conversation is a blueprint for the Jewish future—brimming with clarity, courage, and a charge to build, plant, and lead.
- BTMay 14, 2025 · 47 min
Inside the Battle for Israel on Capitol Hill: Congressman Jared Moskowitz
Congressman Jared Moskowitz: Pro-Israel, Proudly Jewish, and Unapologetically Honest | Behind the Bima 🎙️ In this powerful episode of Behind the Bima, we sit down with Congressman Jared Moskowitz, the outspoken U.S. Representative for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District, and a relentless voice for Israel and the Jewish people. 🇮🇱 From his Holocaust family legacy to his fearless stand against antisemitism—even when it means challenging members of his own party—Congressman Moskowitz shares what drives his moral clarity and fierce advocacy. With honesty, humor, and urgency, he opens up about: • What it’s like being one of the most pro-Israel voices in Congress • The rise of antisemitism on college campuses and in American political discourse • The challenges—and importance—of bipartisanship in a polarized era • How his Jewish identity shapes his public life and service • Why both the political left and right must confront their own blind spots on Israel • His take on social media, public service, and keeping perspective under fire 💥 Plus: The rabbis weigh in on Aliyah, ethics and connections, the blurry line between gifts and favors, and share personal reflections from Boca Raton Synagogue—one of the most pro-Israel shuls in the diaspora. 🙏 A deeply moving and timely conversation you won’t want to miss. Show Notes: 🎙️ Guest Profile: Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) Position: U.S. Representative for Florida’s 23rd Congressional District (since 2023) Party: Democratic Committees: House Judiciary Committee; House Foreign Affairs Committee (Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Oversight & Intelligence) Caucus Roles: Co-Chair, Congressional Sneaker Caucus; Co-Chair, Congressional Dog Lovers’ Caucus; Vice Chair, Gun Violence Prevention Task Force; Member, House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism  ⸻ 🧭 Background & Early Career • Born: December 18, 1980, in Coral Springs, Florida • Education: B.A. in Political Science, George Washington University; J.D., Nova Southeastern University • Early Political Involvement: Interned for Vice President Al Gore; assistant on Joe Lieberman’s 2004 presidential campaign; delegate for Barack Obama at the 2008 Democratic National Convention • Local Government: Elected to the Parkland City Commission in 2006; re-elected in 2010; focused on environmental initiatives such as subsidies for energy-efficient appliances and hybrid vehicles    ⸻ 🏛️ Political Career Florida House of Representatives (2012–2019) • District: 97th, representing northern Broward County • Key Legislation: Co-authored the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act following the 2018 school shooting; the act raised the minimum age to purchase firearms to 21, implemented red flag laws, and increased funding for school security and mental health services   Director, Florida Division of Emergency Management (2019–2021) • Appointed by: Governor Ron DeSantis • Responsibilities: Managed responses to Hurricane Michael and the COVID-19 pandemic; oversaw distribution of PPE, vaccines, and testing supplies; criticized 3M for diverting N95 masks intended for Florida to foreign buyers   U.S. House of Representatives (2023–Present) • Election: Won the seat previously held by Ted Deutch in 2022; re-elected in 2024 • Legislative Focus: Gun violence prevention, defending democracy, supporting Israel, and protecting reproductive rights • Notable Actions: Known for his confrontational style and use of social media to challenge Republican colleagues; has been involved in high-profile exchanges during committee hearings    ⸻ 🎧 Recent Podcast Appearances The Bulwark Podcast: “Jared Moskowitz and Zeke Faux: Scams Galore” • Date: February 19, 2025 • Hosts: Tim Miller • Topics Discussed: Cryptocurrency scams, political accountability, and the role of social media in modern politics   The Lincoln Project Podcast: “Jared Moskowitz on Why He Yells (to Get Through to the Dumb-Dumbs)!” • Date: May 14, 2025 • Host: Rick Wilson • Topics Discussed: Strategies for effective communication in Congress, criticism of GOP policies, and insights into legislative processes  ⸻ 📰 In the News • Political Style: Moskowitz has gained attention for his theatrical approach in Congress, including wearing a Vladimir Putin mask during a hearing to mock Republican colleagues • Bipartisan Relationships: Despite his confrontational tactics, he maintains relationships across the aisle, notably with Rep. Matt Gaetz, who has praised Moskowitz’s intelligence and effectiveness • Potential Future Candidacy: Speculation exists about Moskowitz running for higher office, including a potential gubernatorial bid in Florida   ⸻ 🔗 Additional Resources • Official Website: moskowitz.house.gov • Campaign Website: jaredforflorida.com • Wikipedia: Jared Moskowitz
- BTApr 2, 2025 · 56 min
John Spencer, Urban Warfare Expert
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Philip Moskowitz and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Colonel John Spencer, Chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point. In this compelling conversation, John Spencer provides profound insights into the complexities of urban warfare, sharing his expertise and experiences from the battlefield. The discussion delves into the themes of moral clarity in warfare, the challenges faced by Israel in its ongoing conflicts, and the broader implications for Western military strategies. Plus: all about Rabbi Broide’s move to Israel. All this and more, Behind the Bima.
- BTMar 27, 2025 · 25 min
Akiva, Jewish Music Superstar
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. This week, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Josh Broide, and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by the renowned Israeli singer, Akiva Turgeman. Together, they explore Akiva's rise to fame, his deep personal connection to the music that unites the Jewish people, and his inspiring message of hope and resilience. Tune in for an intimate conversation that goes beyond the music. All this and more - Behind the Bima. Show Notes: Akiva Turgeman, known professionally as Akiva, is an Israeli singer-songwriter renowned for his fusion of traditional Jewish themes with contemporary music styles. Born in 1991 in Dimona, Israel, he is the son of Rabbi David Turgeman, head of the Gevoha Yeshiva, and hails from a family instrumental in founding Dimona.  Akiva’s musical journey began at the Mizmor Music Academy, where he honed his singing and songwriting skills. Following his studies, he served as a combat soldier in the IDF’s Golani Brigade. His diverse musical influences range from Led Zeppelin to traditional Moroccan piyutim, reflecting his mixed Moroccan and Canadian heritage.    His breakthrough came in 2018 with the single “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (“Don’t Let Go”), which topped Israeli music charts and garnered millions of views on YouTube. Subsequent hits like “Pshutim” and “Atah Holech Iti” have solidified his place in the Israeli music scene. Akiva’s discography includes albums such as “Olamot” (2017), “Al Ta’azvi Yadayim” (2021), and “Elef Mena’ulim” (2024).
- BTMar 12, 2025 · 1 hr 36 min
World Zionist Congress Elections Coverage (Part 1)
Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg navigates the intricate landscape of the 39th World Zionist Congress. Rabbi Goldberg is joined by five influential voices in the Jewish world: Rabbi Moshe Hauer representing the OIC-Mizrachi Slate, Rabbi Pesach Lerner of Eretz Ha’Kodesh, Rabbi Steve Burg from Aish Ha’am, Mort Klein of ZOA, and Dan Kaskel leading the Herut slate. As the election for this global congress unfolds, Rabbi Goldberg unpacks the implications of billions of dollars at stake, influencing policy and direction for the Jewish state and communities worldwide. The guests each represent a unique vision and agenda for their slates, aiming to direct the funds in ways that align with their core values and strategic goals. All this and more, Behind the Bima. 00:00 - Introduction 14:51 - Interview 7:38 - Rabbi Moshe Hauer, OIC- Mizrachi Slate 25:46 - Rabbi Pesach Lerner, Eretz Ha’Kodesh 49:32 - Rabbi Steve Burg, Aish Ha’am 1:06:16 - Mort Klein, ZOA 1:22:44 - Dan Kaskel, Herut
- BTMar 5, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Zevi Samet, Basketball Star and Yeshiva Bachur
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Rabbi Philip Moskowitz, and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with the extraordinary Zevi Samet—a dynamic yeshiva bachur and celebrated basketball star whose journey is as inspiring off the court as it is on. Zevi shares his unique story of balancing Torah learning with athletic excellence, revealing how every game-winning shot is a lesson in perseverance, faith, and self-motivation. Join us as we explore his transformative path, the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence, and the powerful role of Torah in every facet of his life. Plus, get the inside scoop on our groundbreaking new media center, a campus expansion that’s doubling our impact, and our record-breaking global charity matching campaign that raised $6 million in just 48 hours! All this and more, Behind the Bima. 00:00 - Introduction 14:51 - Interview
- BTFeb 26, 2025 · 45 min
Rabbi Daniel Kalish, Community Builder and Shaper of Souls
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Daniel Kalisch, the Menahel of the Mesivta of Waterbury. Rabbi Kalish delves into the themes of community legacy, the impact of his father's dedication to Torah, and the importance of connection both within the community and in personal relationships. He shares profound insights on maintaining moral integrity, the significance of friendship in marriage, and the transformative power of faith and personal connection. Plus, reflections on contemporary challenges and the role of the Jewish community in fostering unity and resilience. All this and more, Behind the Bima. Can you join us as a Global Ambassador? We am looking for 250 members from our Global community to give or raise $1,800. You can pay it at one time or in installments. If you can commit to this, we have a special gift for you: Give or help raise $1,800 and join us and the BRS Rabbis in New York, Israel or Florida for an exclusive celebratory dinner with an exclusive BRS giveaway. If you can't be one of the 250 helping us with $1,800, please consider giving or raising $1,000 to be acknowledged as a global pillar in our newsletter or $360 to be entered into a raffle for two domestic flights to Florida to join our BRS community for a special Shabbos of Unity. Can you be one of the 250 that we can count on? It would be an enormous help towards our goal and realizing this dream of building our campus and building Klal Yisrael. Donate here: https://donate.charidy.com/40987?team.... Create your own fundraising team here: https://view.charidy.com/new_team_pag....
- BTFeb 19, 2025 · 53 min
Rabbi Doron Perez, Grieving Father & Resilient Leader
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. In this week’s episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide sit down with Rabbi Doron Perez—a dedicated father, compassionate leader, and a unifying force for our Jewish community. Known for his steadfast role as executive chairman of the Mizrahi World Movement, Rabbi Doron opens his heart about the unimaginable pain of losing his beloved son, and yet, the deep resilience that has carried him forward. In this intimate conversation, Rabbi Doron shares how he has navigated the painful duality of grief and hope—balancing personal loss with his public mission of bridge-building and unity. He reveals how his journey has inspired him to reach across divides, fostering connection and healing within a community often challenged by discord. Join us as we delve into Rabbi Doron Perez’s reflections on loss, leadership, and the power of togetherness, and learn how one man’s strength is lighting the way for a more united future. All this and more, behind the bima.
- BTFeb 12, 2025 · 45 min
Ben Shapiro and His Dad on War, Peace, Music, and Everything In Between
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima! This week, prepare for a powerful father-and-son duo who’ve made an indelible mark on both the Jewish community and the broader cultural landscape. Join Rabbi Efrem Goldberg as he sits down with the one and only Ben Shapiro and his father, David Shapiro, in an intimate, heartfelt conversation that explores everything from Ben’s path into political commentary to the profound impact of David’s musical genius on his son’s life and career. They’ll take us behind the scenes of their remarkable collaboration on the new musical “We Will Rise,” a stirring production spotlighting the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising that moved Israeli audiences to tears and ignited renewed hope in challenging times. Discover how a shared love of learning, faith, and the power of music forged an unbreakable bond between father and son—and glean parenting insights from David on raising a child who not only sits at your side in synagogue, but partners with you on grand creative endeavors. All this and more, Behind the Bima.
- BTFeb 5, 2025 · 38 min
Rabbi Chaim Wolfson
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Rabbi Chaim Wolfson, Co-Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Hahesder Yerucham. Rabbi Wolfson shares the brave and emotional journey of his yeshiva over the past year and a half, focusing on the sacrifices made by students on the frontlines defending Am Israel. He discusses the shift from traditional Torah study to providing spiritual support for students in combat and the vital role of faith and education during these challenging times. This episode also explores the complexities of the recent ceasefire, the ongoing support from the global Jewish community, and the profound impact of keeping the Torah flame burning amidst adversity. All this and more, Behind the Bima. Show Notes: For more information about Yeshivat HaHesder Yerucham and its programs, visit their official website: https://yhyh.co.il/en/home_eng/ To read more about the sacrifices of the yeshiva’s students, see this article: https://www.ynetnews.com/article/ryts7wr11jg Learn more about Rabbi Chaim Wolfson and his leadership at the yeshiva here: https://yhyh.co.il/en/about-us/ This episode offers a moving tribute to the resilience and dedication of Yeshivat HaHesder Yerucham and its community.