Speaker Series

Our Speaker Series returns this October with award-winning Canadian-Israeli journalist and bestselling author Matti Friedman.

Join us for an evening exploring the extraordinary true story behind Who by Fire: Leonard Cohen, the Yom Kippur War & the Stories That Shape Us.

In October 1973, as Israel faced one of the defining moments in its history, legendary singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen left his home in Greece and traveled to the front lines of the Yom Kippur War. Performing for Israeli soldiers in the Sinai Desert, the experience profoundly shaped both his life and his music.

As we gather during the week of October 7, Matti Friedman will share the remarkable story behind Cohen's journey, the war that left a lasting impact on Israel and the Jewish people, and the enduring themes of identity, resilience, and the stories that continue to shape us today.

October 8
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Soho location provided upon RSVP

In partnership with the community, adults and children in 4th grade and up came together in honor of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, for a meaningful evening of remembrance and reflection.

We were honored to welcome back Holocaust survivor Dolly Rabinowitz, who shared her firsthand testimony with attendees. Hearing directly from a survivor was a rare and powerful opportunity, reminding us that these are not just stories of the past, but living memories that continue to shape who we are today. The evening offered our community a chance to pause, reflect, and connect with history, with one another, and with the enduring values that guide us.

An Evening with David Eliezrie, Author of "Undaunted" How One Man's Defiance Shaped Modern Jewish Life

We joined a conversation exploring the extraordinary life of the  Rabbi Yosef Schneersohn, who faced down tyranny, preserved Jewish life under Soviet rule, and re-imagined what it meant to live proudly and fearlessly as a Jew in the modern world.

His story of courage and conviction carried a timely relevance for our time: to stand tall, stay rooted, and remain unshaken in the face of challenge.

The discussion was based on Rabbi Eliezrie's acclaimed new biography, Undaunted: The Life of Rabbi Yosef Schneerson 

As uncertainty rippled through our city’s Jewish community after recent political shifts, we turned to stories of courage that reminded us who we are and what we stand for.

We welcomed Rabbi Yossy Goldman, the senior rabbi of Johannesburg’s famed Sydenham Shul for a powerful evening reflecting on the Rebbe’s message during South Africa’s most turbulent years: Jews do not run.

Through his firsthand account growing up in Crown Heights in Brooklyn and experiencing the  “miracle of South Africa,” Rabbi Goldman shared how unwavering faith steadied a community in fear and how that same spirit continues to inspire us to stand strong and live Jewish life with confidence.

Attendees enjoyed a delicious Shabbat meal, engaging discussion, and meaningful connection in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, with Eylon Levy, one of Israel’s most dynamic voices in the public sphere.

Eylon Levy served as an official Israeli government spokesperson during the October 7th war, becoming a familiar face around the world for his articulate, passionate defense of Israel in international media. A journalist, Oxford graduate, and communications expert, Eylon brought a unique perspective on Israel’s challenges, resilience, and the global conversation surrounding the Jewish state.

An unforgettable morning of meaning, unity, and heartfelt preparation for the new year. Together, we shaped round challahs in honor of Rosh Hashanah and listened to the powerful words of Shelly Shem Tov, whose son Omer was freed from Hamas captivity on February 22, 2025. Shelly shared her journey of hope, courage and unwavering faith. As a community, we created, reflected and offered a heartfelt prayer for those who were still being held hostage.

We gathered for a deeply moving evening of learning and connection with Rabbi Levi Shmotkin. Drawing from the timeless wisdom of the Rebbe’s personal letters, many of which are featured in his book Letters for Life, Rabbi Shmotkin led a powerful conversation on emotional resilience, spiritual grounding, and staying anchored in turbulent times.

In a world where emotional health is talked about more than ever, yet so many continue to feel anxious, unhappy, and alone, this evening offered something different: practical tools for navigating life’s challenges with strength, clarity, and hope, rooted in the Rebbe’s compassionate guidance.

We hosted Alexander 'Shabbos' Kestenbaum for a thought provoking 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.