In this raw, deeply emotional interview, Kayla shares her near-death experience, religious trauma, postpartum depression, and the moment she thought she no longer believed in Judaism. At the same time, Shmuel — a rabbi — reveals what it was like to stay married while watching his wife lose her faith. Together, they walk us through: ✨ Kayla’s clinical death and what she experienced on “the other side” ✨ How trauma, doubt, and anger at God pushed her to rebuild her relationship with Hashem ✨ The conflicts, fear, and love inside a marriage where two people choose completely different religious paths ✨ Shmuel’s “Red Line System” — the tool that saved their marriage ✨ How they’re raising children with honesty, curiosity, and spiritual autonomy ✨ Why most couples give up too soon — and how to reconnect even when your values change Their story is messy, human, hilarious, painful, and unbelievably hopeful. From rebuilding trust to reshaping their identities, from navigating Shabbos under one roof to opening their home to struggling teens—this episode is an emotional roller coaster with a soul. If you’ve ever questioned your path, your faith, or your relationship, this conversation will hit deep. This is Stories of Hope at its most honest. You can get Kayla's book 'Questioning the Answers' here; https://mosaicapress.com/product/questioning-the-answers/ You can follow Kayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/questioningtheanswers?igsh=MXh5NTJxdWJ6NHpxZQ== and Shmuel here: https://www.instagram.com/nishmasi_online / https://www.youtube.com/@Nishmasi For more information about the organization ‘The Vaad’ that Kayla founded to help Agunos visit https://vaadlinyaneiigun.org/ as well as in this article: https://mishpacha.com/hope-unchained/ You can email also email them via: mosheshmuelgoldstein@gmail.com or Kaylahaber@gmail.com This weeks episode is sponsored by Tzipora’s brother and sister-in-law Noach and Michal Grodko, of Adina Las Vegas in loving memory of Michal’s brother Mordy, Morrdechai Ben Dan Zev Moshe A”H, in honor of his first Yartzheit. Mordy had a deep love for connecting with people, with HASHEM and with the deeper truths in life. He asked real questions, he cared deeply, and he lived with sincerity and authenticity. Anyone who crossed his path felt uplifted by his warmth, and his light continues to shine through the people whose lives he touched. May his neshama have an Aliya This episode is also sponsored by: ► Nafshi A musical evening with Shulem Lemmer, Benny Friedman, Joey Newcomb, Yehuda Green and Eli Marcus: This is Nafshi! 7th of December at Kings Theater! https://colelchabad.events/mm ___________________________ ►Pizza Biza Delight your guests with our expansive menu and a culinary experience that exceeds expectations. https://www.pizzabiza.com ___________________________ ► Better than a Segulah When one is faced with life challenges, the merit of Torah learning can effect miraculous salvations. Whatever your need – shidduchim, parnassah, zera kayama, health, nachas from one’s children – the merit of Torah study is a segulah you will want to rely upon. We understand your needs and provide a wide range of options to meet those needs. Whatever the circumstance, we can guide you to an appropriate course of Torah study to be completed by our team of elite Torah scholars. Let us help you help yourself. Order your personalized Torah Study program today. https://betterthanasegulah.org/ ___________________________ ► Meaningful Minute Plus Meaningful Minute Plus gives you access to exclusive video series, raw uncut podcast moments, behind-the-scenes with your favorite creators — plus original films, powerful documentaries, and live-streamed conversations you won’t see anywhere else. Www.soh.plus -------- Editor: Sruly Saftlas

In this eye-opening conversation, Nachi Gordon sits down with Zvi Gluck, founder of Amudim, for one of the most important and raw episodes we’ve ever released. From drug use and gambling in our schools, to secrets hidden behind closed doors, to real stories of crisis, denial, healing, and hope, Zvi pulls back the curtain on what’s really happening in our community. We discuss: — How common drug and alcohol use truly is — The rise of gambling addiction among teens — Why prevention MUST start earlier — What yeshivas still don’t understand — Abuse, denial, and the cost of silence — The lifesaving impact of proper education — Real stories of families on the brink — and those who found healing — What parents need to know right now This conversation is honest. It’s uncomfortable. But it’s necessary. If you’re a parent, educator, community member, or simply someone who cares, you need to hear this. For more information about Amudim: https://amudim.org/ Join December 7–8 the Unite to Heal 36-hours livestream: https://unitetoheal.com/ This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide. https://bloomskosher.com ______________________________________ ►Banana Blast Rentals Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh ______________________________________ ► The Business Organizer The Business Organizer is a game-changing resource for entrepreneurs who have big vision but feel stuck hitting the same roadblocks. If you know what you want to achieve but feel overwhelmed, misaligned with your team, or like the business is running you—not the other way around—this is for you. If you're ready to regain control and scale with confidence, reach out for a free 15-minute consultation to see if Sruly is the right fit for your company’s needs. all or WhatsApp 347-939-9959 https://wa.link/5sxy1e Email info@srulyschonfeld.com or testimonials from real entrepreneurs, visit SrulySchonfeld.com _______________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka https://pushka.cc/meaningful _______________________________________ ► Eishet Chayil Eishet Chayil — The Woman of Valor is a new book by Rabbi Yossi Marcus that brings King Solomon’s classic poem to life through the stories of 24 remarkable Jewish women — from Sarah and Miriam to Esther and beyond. Drawing on millennia of Jewish scholarship, especially the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the book celebrates women of faith, courage, and wisdom. Each verse is paired with contemporary artwork by Israeli artist Lia Baratz, making the book both educational and inspirational for readers of all ages. Dedicated to the women of Nahal Oz who were killed on October 7, 2023, it stands as a tribute to Jewish women of valor throughout history. Already in its second printing, Eishet Chayil is an ideal gift for Bat Mitzvahs, brides, wives, and mothers. Available at https://www.eishetchayil.com and https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/ Use code MM20 for 20% off when checking out on Kehot.com. _______________________________________ ► Lalechet We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish. https://www.lalechet.com ______________________________________ ►Rothenberg Law Firm Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation https://shorturl.at/JFKHH ______________________________________ ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp https://www.townappliance.com https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ______________________________________ ► Nafshi A musical evening with Shulem Lemmer, Benny Friedman, Joey Newcomb, Yehuda Green and Eli Marcus: This is Nafshi! 7th of December at Kings Theater! https://colelchabad.events/mm ______________________________________ Editing team: Sruly Saftlas Shneur Novack ______________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 – The Drug Problem Nobody Believes Is Real 02:52 – Marijuana, Legalization, and Denial in Yeshivas 04:41 – What Kids Admit When Staff Leave 05:41 – Pills, Adderall, & How Easy Access Is 06:32 – From Crisis Response to Prevention 08:45 – The Real Dangers of Unfiltered Internet 09:56 – Hidden Addictions: Gambling, Gaming, and Suicide Links 11:31 – The 15-Year-Old Who Lost $190,000 13:11 – Community Denial and “Aneurysm” Excuses 16:26 – Real Prevention: Education, Not Punishment 18:28 – Alcohol Culture and Its Consequences 20:30 – Why Kids Hide Everything Until It's Too Late 23:00 – Abuse Statistics and Skepticism 28:41 – “Not By Us”: Denial Across Every Community 33:11 – The Malki Klein Story, Why Openness Saves Lives 42:14 – Zvi’s Story: Expulsion, and a Rosh Yeshiva’s Apology 55:33 – Why Schools Resist Prevention Programs 57:26 – The Nonprofit Funding Crisis & Shutting Project HEAL

On this week’s episode of Stories of Hope, host Tzipora Grodko sits down with Ronni and Gavriel Rabin — a couple whose love story feels like it was written in Heaven. She was a divorced grandmother rediscovering herself. He was a widower, a Vietnam veteran, a convert to Judaism, and absolutely not looking for love. But one unexpected phone call — sparked by a charity donation — set off a chain of events neither of them could have imagined. What followed? Lightning-bolt moments, cross-country conversations, a first meeting straight out of a movie, and a love that blossomed at ages 79 and 67. Their journey spans Montana cabins with no electricity, spiritual awakenings, deep loss, and ultimately, a miraculous second chance at love. This is a story about timing, faith, courage… and the magic that happens when you stay open to the unexpected. You can reach Ronni and Gavriel via email: Ronni.Rabin@gmail.com This episode is sponsored by: ► Colel Chabad Pushka App The easiest way to give Tzedaka. https://pushka.cc/ ___________________________ ►Pizza Biza Delight your guests with our expansive menu and a culinary experience that exceeds expectations. https://www.pizzabiza.com ___________________________ ► Better than a Segulah When one is faced with life challenges, the merit of Torah learning can effect miraculous salvations. Whatever your need – shidduchim, parnassah, zera kayama, health, nachas from one’s children – the merit of Torah study is a segulah you will want to rely upon. We understand your needs and provide a wide range of options to meet those needs. Whatever the circumstance, we can guide you to an appropriate course of Torah study to be completed by our team of elite Torah scholars. Let us help you help yourself. Order your personalized Torah Study program today. https://betterthanasegulah.org/ ___________________________ ► Meaningful Minute Plus Meaningful Minute Plus gives you access to exclusive video series, raw uncut podcast moments, behind-the-scenes with your favorite creators — plus original films, powerful documentaries, and live-streamed conversations you won’t see anywhere else. Www.soh.plus Edited by Sruly Saftlas

In this gripping, emotional, and deeply honest conversation, Shmelke Diamond opens up about his unlikely path—from a traditional Long Island Jewish upbringing to discovering Chabad as a teenager, navigating a lonely and self-taught journey into observance, and ultimately becoming a proud Satmar chasid. Shmelke shares powerful stories of identity, family tension, spiritual searching, and the moment he realized he had to choose between two worlds. He talks about the kindness that drew him into the Satmar community, his struggles with chronic illness, and how disability reshaped his understanding of purpose, humility, and faith. Whether you’re religious, secular, curious, or anywhere in between, this episode is a raw and inspiring exploration of what it means to find yourself—and to stand by what you believe, even when the world pushes back. This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide. https://bloomskosher.com ______________________________________ ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka https://pushka.cc/meaningful _______________________________________ ► Banana Blast Rentals Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh _______________________________________ ► Lalechet We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish. https://www.lalechet.com _______________________________________ ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp https://www.townappliance.com https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ______________________________________ ►Rothenberg Law Firm Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation https://shorturl.at/JFKHH ____________________________________ ► Ketubah At Ketubah.com, every Kesubah is designed with care, blending timeless beauty with texts that are fully halachic, including RCA and Sephardic versions. Our team collaborates with rabbanim and mesadrei kiddushin to ensure each document is accurate and accepted without question. Choosing Ketubah.com means you arrive at your chuppah with peace of mind, knowing your Kesubah is both beautifully crafted and halachically sound. https://ketubah.com/meaningful-minutes/?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Clickthrough&utm_campaign=meaningful-people-podcast ____________________________________ ► Eishet Chayil Eishet Chayil — The Woman of Valor is a new book by Rabbi Yossi Marcus that brings King Solomon’s classic poem to life through the stories of 24 remarkable Jewish women — from Sarah and Miriam to Esther and beyond. Drawing on millennia of Jewish scholarship, especially the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the book celebrates women of faith, courage, and wisdom. Each verse is paired with contemporary artwork by Israeli artist Lia Baratz, making the book both educational and inspirational for readers of all ages. Dedicated to the women of Nahal Oz who were killed on October 7, 2023, it stands as a tribute to Jewish women of valor throughout history. Already in its second printing, Eishet Chayil is an ideal gift for Bat Mitzvahs, brides, wives, and mothers. Available at https://www.eishetchayil.com and https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/ Use code MM20 for 20% off when checking out on Kehot.com. _______________________________________ Editing team: Sruly Saftlas Shneur Novack

In this powerful street-side conversation series, Rabbi Shoff engages with people from all walks of life—soldiers, seekers, skeptics, spiritual strugglers, and even a Catholic seminarian—offering warmth, wisdom, and deep emotional insight. Through raw, unfiltered questions about faith, pain, Jewish identity, trauma, teshuva, and the search for meaning, he meets each person with empathy and clarity. Whether discussing a father drawn to Messianic Judaism, navigating religious hurt, wrestling with grief, or exploring the purpose of mitzvot and the afterlife, Rabbi Shoff gently reframes complex struggles into pathways toward healing, connection, and inner strength. This episode captures the heart of what makes these encounters so compelling: honest questions, compassionate guidance, and the timeless Jewish belief that every soul is capable of growth, love, and return. This video was made possible by: Skive - Customized Software Without The Custom Price Tag ► Check out their website: https://skive.co/ ► Email: info@skive.co ► Call: (786) 273-9188

In this profoundly moving conversation, Chaya and Shmily Morgenstern open up about their journey through love, loss, and resilience. From navigating the Chasidic dating world and living with Kallmann syndrome to surviving a near-fatal car accident and rebuilding life after traumatic brain injury, their story is one of courage, faith, and unshakable authenticity. Together, they reveal how vulnerability and realness — not perfection — form the strongest foundation for love. This episode is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, healing and connection are possible when we lead with honesty, gratitude, and hope. You can reach out via email to Chaya: Chayam7750@gmail.com Shmilisings@gmail.com and Shmily: Shmilisings@gmail.com You can listen to Shmily’s song of gratitude after his accident here: https://youtu.be/zp5QjE1DDE8?si=d93tRVq3cM-krZb- And hear his medical story https://youtu.be/jjeNimlWloE?si=sKlEo5qZzNLO4D4m This episode is sponsored by: ► Colel Chabad Pushka App The easiest way to give Tzedaka. https://pushka.cc/ ___________________________ ►Pizza Biza Delight your guests with our expansive menu and a culinary experience that exceeds expectations. https://www.pizzabiza.com ___________________________ ► Better than a Segulah When one is faced with life challenges, the merit of Torah learning can effect miraculous salvations. Whatever your need – shidduchim, parnassah, zera kayama, health, nachas from one’s children – the merit of Torah study is a segulah you will want to rely upon. We understand your needs and provide a wide range of options to meet those needs. Whatever the circumstance, we can guide you to an appropriate course of Torah study to be completed by our team of elite Torah scholars. Let us help you help yourself. Order your personalized Torah Study program today. https://betterthanasegulah.org/ ___________________________ ► Meaningful Minute Plus Meaningful Minute Plus gives you access to exclusive video series, raw uncut podcast moments, behind-the-scenes with your favorite creators — plus original films, powerful documentaries, and live-streamed conversations you won’t see anywhere else. Www.soh.plus

In this deeply personal conversation, Mendel Mintz shares his journey of growing up in Crown Heights with a lifelong physical disability, building a life of community impact, and finding unexpected love with his wife, Miriam, a beloved special educator from Baltimore born with dwarfism. He opens up about their dream of building a family through IVF, the joy of being on the brink of shlichus together, and the unimaginable tragedy of losing Miriam to an extremely rare complication at the very height of their lives. Mendel reflects with searing honesty on grief, walking out of the hospital alone, wrestling with faith, and what it means to keep showing up for Hashem with real questions and no easy answers. He also shares how he’s turning pain into purpose through Miriam’s Library and Learning Center, a new educational hub in Baltimore dedicated to the children and values she lived for. To honor Miriam’s legacy and help bring this life-changing project to reality, you can make a meaningful difference here: https://www.charidy.com/Miriam/mm This episode is for anyone carrying loss, living with visible or invisible challenges, or searching for a way to transform heartbreak into a life of meaning. This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka https://pushka.cc/meaningful _______________________________________ ► Banana Blast Rentals Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh ____________________________________ ► Lalechet We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish. https://www.lalechet.com ___________________________________________ ► Ketubah At Ketubah.com, every Kesubah is designed with care, blending timeless beauty with texts that are fully halachic, including RCA and Sephardic versions. Our team collaborates with rabbanim and mesadrei kiddushin to ensure each document is accurate and accepted without question. Choosing Ketubah.com means you arrive at your chuppah with peace of mind, knowing your Kesubah is both beautifully crafted and halachically sound. https://ketubah.com/meaningful-minutes/?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Clickthrough&utm_campaign=meaningful-people-podcast ______________________________________ ► Rothenberg Law Firm Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation https://shorturl.at/JFKHH ____________________________________ ► Town Appliance Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp https://www.townappliance.com https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ______________________________________ ► Dream Raffle Win a brand new and fully furnished $1,200,000 apartment in Yerushalayim! Use Promo code MPP for $10 off and to receive double tickets! https://thedreamraffle.com/ _____________________________________ Editing team: Sruly Saftlas Shneur Novack