In this episode, I sit down with Hudi Greenberger, the king of product photography, to dive into his creative journey. We explore the business side of his work, the challenges he's faced, and his unique approach to capturing the perfect shot. Hudi Drops invaluable business insights that will inspire your creatives and entrepreneurs alike. This conversation is packed with something for everyone! ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/u...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 37 min•Season 2Ep. 16
Join Rabbi Klein, a master mechanech and seasoned camp head counselor, as he delves into the important factors parents should consider when choosing a sleepaway camp for their child. From weighing the pros and cons to understanding the key elements that make a camp the perfect fit, Rabbi Klein offers invaluable insights to ensure a rewarding and enriching camp experience for your child. ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcas...
Mar 27, 2024•48 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this episode, we're joined by Rabbi Meir Levi, Lakewood's premier shadchan. We dive into the inner workings of the shadchanus field. Rabbi Levi shares insights on how many shidduchim does one have to make to be considered a professional shaddchan? Should a boy who is entering shiduchim use a dating coach? Join us as we get a glimpse of what the field of shadchanus looks like from the inside. ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/u...
Jan 02, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 14
————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-town/id1661853310 Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/26jkl3pgksq6PBuGBY2E9u?si=_3AWWqicQwalRXgBKpt-Ww Google Podcasts : https://podcasts.google.com/search/our%20town%20LNN and anywhere else Podcasts are available! To watch any of our episodes as well as to get all the latest Lakewood news: LNNNews.com --For Our Town Podcast sponsorship opportunities-- ourtown@lnnnews.com LNN i...
Dec 21, 2023•41 min•Season 2Ep. 13
Recently, an unsettling incident unfolded when a missionary infiltrated BMG under the guise of seeking to become a baal teshuva. Swiftly discerning the missionary's true intentions, they reached out to Rabbi Yisroel Blumenthal, Lakewood's counter missionary activist. LNN's Meir Dickstein had the opportunity to sit down with Rabbi Blumenthal, to hear more about his counter-missionary efforts. Get ready for a very interesting episode! ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple ...
Dec 11, 2023•49 min•Season 2Ep. 12
Although Season 2 has concluded, we release this episode in honor of Rav Ahron Kotler's sixty first yartzeit. In this special episode we are honored to be joined by Rabbi Baruch Ber Yoffe, We delve into the extraordinary life of Rabbi Ahron Kotler Zt"l, Rabbi Yoffe paints a vivid portrait of how Rabbi Ahron Kotler carried the weight of Klal Yisroel on his shoulders even from a young age. We explore the deep respect Rabbi Ahron garnered not only from the masses but also from all the other Gedolim...
Nov 15, 2023•52 min•Season 2Ep. 11
Welcome to another captivating episode of the OUR TOWN podcast, where we have the honor of sitting down with Shimmi J., the CEO of Censible Marketing. Shimi's story takes us from his formative years growing up in Lakewood in the early 1990s, through his impressive career as a shadchan, to the early struggles in his working life, ultimately ascending the ladder to lead a large, successful healthcare marketing firm. Shimi is not only dedicated to personal success but is also passionate about sprea...
Nov 03, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Join us for an inspiring journey into the world of philanthropy and fundraising as we sit down with the remarkable Rabbi Ahron Steier, the National Director of Development at RCCS. Rabbi Steier will share his incredible experiences and insights into the ever-evolving landscape of fundraising efforts. Discover how he has navigated the challenges of rejection and embraced the rewarding aspects of his fundraising career. His warmth and unwavering commitment to giving back have made him a beacon of ...
Oct 29, 2023•1 hr 20 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this week's episode, we are joined by David Rosenberg from Toms River. He is the Executive Director of the New Jersey Jewish Business Alliance. David is a native of Union City, NJ, who grew up with a burning passion for politics. Over the years, David has cultivated deep relationships with government officials at the state, county, and township levels across New Jersey. His dedication and networking prowess have not only connected people but also opened doors for numerous Jewish businesses. J...
Oct 22, 2023•57 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Isaac Akerman, a dedicated Committeeman who has served Lakewood Township for the past 13 years. Isaac's tenure since 2011 has solidified his reputation as a respected members of the Committee. Isaac's successful stints as mayor in 2013 and 2015 underscore his commitment to the community, where he consistently places the needs of Lakewood above personal aspirations. With his extensive responsibilities, from budget management to overseeing the...
Oct 15, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode, we're joined by Rabbi Yanky Kaufman, who conquered a lifelong struggle with stuttering, despite unsuccessful attempts at therapy. He endured intense pain and anxiety, seeking remedies in vain. Rabbi Kaufman’s life continued—a journey through mainstream yeshivos, learning with chavrusas, summer camps, yeshivah in Eretz Yisrael, dating, marriage, teaching in a yeshivah—all while battling debilitating and chronic stuttering. Then, one day, everything changed. Listen as Rabbi Yanky ...
Oct 09, 2023•1 hr 27 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode we sit down with Dr. Rich Roberts, a remarkable individual who has experienced a transformative journey. From his upbringing as a reformed Jew in PA to currently living in Lakewood as a frum yid. Roberts is renowned for his selfless endeavors, from organizing his famous free chol hamoid carnivals to making generous philanthropic contributions, as well as political advocating to benefit our community. In our conversation, Rich recalls the way of discovering faith, rescuing his bus...
Sep 26, 2023•1 hr 34 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this week's episode, we are joined by Rabbi Mordechai Herskowitz, the Executive Director at Beth Medrash Govoha for nearly four decades. Over the years he has been involved in the construction and expansion of each building on its campus. When Rabbi Herskowitz raises funds for BMG, it's not merely about soliciting donations; it's about passionately sharing his conviction that there is no greater privilege than supporting Torah. His sincerity shines through, emphasizing that what he is "sellin...
Sep 18, 2023•39 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this week's episode we have the privilege of hosting Simcha Shain, a remarkable individual whose life story is truly inspiring. Simcha, a Lakewood native, always had a deep passion for emergency medical services. He joined the Howell First Aid in 1993 which was a stepping stone for Simcha to become an essential part of Hatzalah in various cities, including Lakewood, New York, and United Hatzalah in Israel. Simcha also founded ParaFlight Aviation, an airflight business, to assist people in ser...
Sep 10, 2023•1 hr 14 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode, we were honored to host Rabbi Avrohom Moshe Weisner, the administrator of the KCL, the Kashrus organization that has been an integral part of Lakewood, NJ's culinary landscape. Rabbi Weisner's KCL journey started when Lakewood boasted only a handful of eateries, and today, KCL certifies more than 130 establishments, including numerous home-based operations. As we delve into his remarkable story, Rabbi Weisner reflects on how KCL filled a crucial void in Old Lakewood three decade...
Sep 03, 2023•45 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In our first episode of Season 2, we sit down for a conversation with Dr. Dovid Friedman, the CEO and driving force behind CHEMED Health Centers in Lakewood. We discuss his incredible journey from South Africa to Israel and then to Lakewood. He explains why he chose to run a health center instead of pursuing one of the most prominent and lucrative positions in the administrative healthcare world. Dr. Friedman transformed CHEMED from a modest Jewish center in Lakewood, as perceived by the New Jer...
Aug 27, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Your choice of how you spend your day, whether it's devoted to learning in Kollel or in the workforce, does not define your status as a Ben Torah or a Bal Habus. Listen to Rav Gershon Ribner as he sheds light on this important distinction. Buy Rabbi Ribner’s book, “Consequential Choices” by visiting your nearest Judaica store or visiting https://rebgershonribner.com/2021 ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-town/id166...
Jun 21, 2023•36 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this episode, we go behind the scenes as well as review the highlights of Season One. It's a celebration of the exceptional individuals we've encountered and the vibrant tapestry that defines Our Town, Lakewood. Prepare to be inspired one last time as we close this chapter, eagerly anticipating the extraordinary individuals who continue to make a significant impact on Our Town, whom we'll encounter in Season Two. ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https:...
May 14, 2023•49 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this week's episode, we were privileged to have Rabbi Shalom Mordechai Rubashkin on the show. Despite not being a native of Lakewood, Rabbi Rubashkin has made a significant impact through his Shuirim and other endeavors, and has since become an integral part of the Lakewood community. You will be inspired by R’ Shalom Mordechai’s unwavering commitment to living a life of Emunah, Bitachon and devotion to Hashem. His recently published book is a testament to his resilience and unwavering faith ...
May 07, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 11
Rabbi Binyomin Babad, CEO of Relief Resources, joins as our guest in this week’s episode. Over two decades ago, Rabbi Babad played a key role in establishing a mental health referral agency, a pioneering effort at a time when mental health carried a heavy stigma. With Rabbi Babad at the helm, what started as a small organization in Our Town; evolved into a multi-service, global agency with offices worldwide. Their focus was on matching individuals with mental health professionals and services th...
Apr 28, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode we had the privilege of speaking with Lipa Schwartz, the founder and executive director of Misameach, an incredible organization that has touched the lives of countless people by lifting the spirits of children and adults who are hospitalized, bedridden, or have physical disabilities. Lipa's journey began with a conversation at a lunch table which led to just a small act of kindness, where he visited a sick person, and it snowballed into something much bigger. Misameach started w...
Apr 23, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Join us for an inspiring episode with Yeshi Goori, an outdoor enthusiast, co-founder The Kollel and NESIVOS. Yeshi's journey began in the year 2000, as he worked tirelessly to create summer programs that kept youth active and engaged during their extended break. Through this work, he discovered a growing concern for struggling bochurim, both in and out of yeshiva, and recognized the need for a safe and supportive environment. This led to the founding of The Kollel in 2001, a unique program that ...
Apr 16, 2023•54 min•Season 1Ep. 8
Rabbi Aaron Kotler, The President Emeritus of Beth Medrash Govoha, has served as the President of the yeshiva for an impressive 26 years. The son of Rav Shneur Kotler zt”l and the grandson of Rav Aharon Kotler zt”l, Reb Aaron Kotler has a deep understanding of Lakewood's rich history and how it continues to evolve. In this fascinating episode, Reb Aaron shares what it was like growing up in Lakewood in a time when even finding basic kosher food was a challenge. He returned to Lakewood in 1997 to...
Apr 02, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Join us as we delve into some of the incredible work Rabbi Gedaliah Weinberger does as the chairman of the board of PCS, an organization dedicated to empowering our community with career courses and employment opportunities. Rabbi Weinberger is also the chairman of the board of Chayim Aruchim, a division of Agudas Yisroel which helps the community make healthcare decisions according to halacha. In this episode, Rabbi Weinberger shares his experiences and insights from his years of assisting so m...
Mar 26, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 6
In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with a local legend, Ira Zlotowitz. A true titan in the world of commercial real estate. Ira's impressive list of accomplishments speaks for itself. From being the youngest president of a top 10 mortgage brokerage to driving the growth of Eastern Union to a staggering $5 billion enterprise, Ira has made an undeniable impact on the industry. But what truly sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to giving back to our community. Ira has men...
Mar 19, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 5
Join us in this episode as Rabbi "Butch" Epstein takes us on a journey through his childhood, growing up in Lakewood and his lifelong dedication to this town. As the current proud owner of Epstein's Meat Store, he shares fascinating stories about its rich history, and why it once was the butcher shop of many Gedolim. You'll be treated to entertaining stories about the early days of Lakewood including the early years of The Lakewood Cheder. Rabbi Butch's larger-than-life personality and his passi...
Mar 12, 2023•56 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Rabbi Aaron Gruman is the Director of Torah Links, the outreach division of Bais Medrash Gavoah. Torah Links has branches throughout New Jersey and across the country. In this week’s episode, Rabbi Gruman tells us about Torah Links; how he got involved and what it accomplishes, as well as more about the Twin Rivers community. Rabbi Gruman moved to Twin Rivers in 1989 with his wife and family to expand the existing outreach program. Today, Twin Rivers' infrastructure includes a shul with about 60...
Mar 06, 2023•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 3
In this episode we have the pleasure of hosting Rabbi Sruli Fried, MSW , Director of Chai Lifeline NJ/PA as well as Executive Director of Bike4Chai. Rabbi Fried is known for his incredible work helping children with serious illnesses and their families. During our conversation, he describes how he manages the intense emotions that are inherent in his job, as well as the things that give him the strength to persevere. With his trademark warmth and empathy, Rabbi Fried gives us a glimpse of how he...
Feb 27, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Rabbi Avi Schnall is the Director of the New Jersey Office of Agudas Yisroel. Over the past nine years, he became known for his humble approach and genuine care for the needs of the frum community as well as the needs of every individual. In this episode we explore Rabbi Schnall’s fascinating public persona and how the early years of his life made him who he is today. He discusses his thoughts on contemporary issues, and his plans for the future. Join us as we catch a glimpse into the heart and ...
Feb 20, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Welcome to Our Town! This is not just a podcast about Our Town. This is a podcast about the extraordinary people who have impacted Our Town allowing it to evolve into what it is today. ————————————————— Thank you for subscribing to Our Town! Apple Podcasts : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-town/id1661853310 Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/26jkl3pgksq6PBuGBY2E9u?si=_3AWWqicQwalRXgBKpt-Ww Google Podcasts : https://podcasts.google.com/search/our%20town%20LNN and anywhere else Podc...
Dec 27, 2022•24 sec
