The Speaker Series at Chabad of Tribeca/Soho is an exciting monthly adult education program that brings inspiring and thought-provoking speakers to our community. Sessions feature experts, authors, and educators who delve into meaningful topics, offering fresh perspectives on Jewish identity, purpose, and values. It’s a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and engage in a warm and enriching environment.

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Rabbi Levi Shmotkin

 

Finding Emotional Balance in an Unbalanced World

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Join us for a heartfelt and deeply personal conversation with Rabbi Levi Shmotkin, author of Letters for Life, a collection of reflections written after the sudden loss of his young daughter. Drawing from his own journey through grief and healing, Rabbi Shmotkin will share honest, hope-filled insights on navigating pain without being defined by it, and how connection, purpose, and the soul’s perspective can help us find emotional clarity and strength in even the most chaotic times.

Sushi and sake at 7:30 PM, followed by discussion + Q & A at 8:00 PM

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Alexander 'Shabbos' Kastenbaum

Past speaker

Standing Up

Fighting Antisemitism at America's Ivy Leagues

Thursday, May 29, 2025

We were fortunate to host Alexander 'Shabbos' Kestenbaum for a powerful and timely conversation titled, "Suing Harvard: The State of Antisemitism at America's Ivy Leagues." 

Alexander shared his personal story of standing up to institutional antisemitism, offering insight into the challenges Jewish students face on elite college campuses and what it means to advocate for truth and justice in today's academic climate.

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Neha Ruch

Founder of Mother Untitled

Past speaker

Mother Untitled
Professional Success alongside the Sacred Role of Motherhood

April 30, 2025

Chabad of Tribeca hosted a beautiful gathering featuring Neha Ruch, author of The Power Pause, in an inspiring fireside chat with Sarah Rueven, MS, RDN, CDN, of Rooted Wellness. Together, they explored themes of ambition, identity, motherhood, and redefining success, offering attendees thoughtful insights on balancing personal growth with the sacred role of motherhood, a value deeply held in Jewish tradition. Guests enjoyed meaningful conversation, leaving with fresh perspectives on what it means to step away from the traditional workforce and return with renewed clarity, purpose, and strength. We were honored to feature Neha, whose book was recently named one of Oprah Daily’s 25 Best Self-Help Books for Personal Growth in 2025.

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Rabbi YY Shochet

Rabbi Schochet is senior Rabbi at the Mill Hill Synagogue in London

Past speaker

Understanding Jewish Identity
The Challenge of the Jew in the 21st Century

February 11, 2025

Rabbi YY Schochet joined us at The Shul in Soho for a compelling and thought-provoking discussion on Jewish identity in the modern world. Rabbi Schochet, a renowned speaker and Rabbi at Mill Hill United Synagogue in the UK, captivated the audience with his insights on the challenges and opportunities facing Jews today. He explored how Jewish identity has evolved amidst societal shifts, technological advancements, and global changes, offering wisdom on staying connected to our heritage while engaging with the world around us.

With a mix of humor, depth, and practical guidance, Rabbi Schochet inspired attendees to embrace their Jewish identity with confidence and purpose. His message resonated deeply, sparking meaningful conversations and reflections among all who attended.

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Michal Oshman

Head of Company Culture, Diversity and Inclusion at TikTok Europe

Past speaker

 Navigating The Worlds of Anxieties

January 28th, 2025

At the end of January, we had the privilege of hosting Michal Oshman, author of What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid?, for an enlightening discussion on navigating anxieties in parenting, relationships, and work.
Drawing from her experience as a mentor to leaders in top global companies, Michal shared her unique personal growth methodology, rooted in the life-changing principles of Jewish wisdom. She highlighted how the challenges we face today—whether in our personal lives or careers—are not new, but rather part of the human experience across generations. Through a blend of personal stories, heritage, and deep Jewish teachings, she offered practical insights on handling heartbreak, overcoming setbacks, and finding fulfillment in our careers and relationships.

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Rabbi Yosef Vogel

Rabbi Yosef Vogel serves on the Strategic Partnerships and Development team at The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute

Past speaker

Defining Identity
Why the Jewish Story Must Transcend Antisemitism

December 27, 2024

Rabbi Yosef Vogel delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the power of Jewish identity and the importance of framing the Jewish story beyond the narrative of antisemitism. Drawing from his expertise as part of the Strategic Partnerships and Development team at The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, Rabbi Vogel provided perspective into how Jewish history, values, and resilience can shape a narrative of strength for future generations.

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Rabbi Mendel Kalmanson

Author of numerous books and articles. He lives in London with his family, where he is the rabbi and executive director of Chabad Belgravia.

Past Speaker

Discover Your Unique Path
An Evening of Insight and Inspiration

November 26, 2024

We were honored to host author Rabbi Mendel Kalmanson for an evening celebrating the launch of his new book, On Purpose. The event explored how living with purpose can enhance well-being and resilience, offering practical tools and insights into finding meaning in today’s fast-paced, often distracting world.

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Lisa Miller Ph.D

Dr. Lisa Miller is a Professor of Psychology at Columbia University and the Founder of the Spirituality Mind Body Institute.

Past speaker

Raising a Spiritual Child
Can Spirituality Support Our Mental Health?

April 24, 2024

That powerful question has guided the work of Dr. Lisa Miller, psychologist, researcher, and author of The Spiritual Child. In an inspiring evening of conversation and insight, Dr. Miller shared the groundbreaking science behind what she calls the “awakened brain,” neural pathways that give every human the capacity for spiritual awareness.

Drawing from decades of research, she spoke about her early clinical experiences and the profound difference she observed between clinical depression and a deeper existential sadness, one that yearns for meaning, purpose, and connection. Her work shows that spirituality is not just a belief system. It is a measurable and vital part of mental well-being, especially for children and adolescents.

Participants left with practical tools and a renewed appreciation for the importance of nurturing spiritual life in ourselves and in our families.