Behind the Bima
Religion & Spirituality
About
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.
Episodes
- Rabbi Broide RETURNS: Rabbi Josh Broide
Rabbi Josh Broide returns to Behind the Bima! After decades helping build Jewish life in Boca, Rabbi Broide reflects on what it’s actually been like starting over in Modi’in during one of the most volatile periods in Israel’s recent histor…
- The Mentalist Who Broke the Rabbis: Shlomo Levinger
On this episode of Behind the Bima , the Rabbis sit down with Shlomo Levinger, a professional mentalist whose work blends performance, psychology, and precision. What looks impossible on stage isn’t about supernatural ability. It’s about s…
- Is Torah Not Enough Anymore? Rav Nissan Kaplan
On this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rav Nissan Kaplan for a conversation that goes to the heart of chinuch today: what it means to be a Rebbi, and what talmidim are actually looking for. As expectations sh…
- When Comedy Gets Serious: Ami Kozak
On this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Ami Kozak, whose impressions and satire have become a sharp lens on how people speak… and what they actually mean. What makes those impressio…
- How Does Rav Gav Do It?
On this episode of Behind the Bima , the Rabbis sit down with Rav Gav, a beloved and dynamic educator from Aish who has spent decades teaching in seminaries across Israel and engaging students around the world. Known for his humor, energy,…
- Israel vs. Diaspora - Can We Survive the Divide? Yael Leibowitz
If Israel is so central to Jewish life… what does that mean for the millions of Jews in the diaspora? In this episode of Behind the Bima , the Rabbis speak with Yael Leibowitz about the growing tension between Israel and the diaspora, and…
- BONUS EPISODE: Eli Sharabi | The Meaning of Freedom
In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with former hostage Eli Sharabi for a deeply moving conversation about October 7th, captivity in Gaza, survival, loss, and the long road back. Sharabi speaks with remarkab…
- The Chinese-Speaking Chassid Who Worked for the Treasury: Mitchell Silk
How does a Chassidic Jew end up shaping global economic policy... and speaking fluent Chinese along the way? In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Mitchell Silk, former Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Tre…
- The Secret of Great Jewish Educators: Rabbi Chaim Tzvi Senter
In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Rabbi Chaim Tzvi Senter, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivas Aderes HaTorah in Jerusalem, for a conversation about Torah education, resilience, and the…
- I Just Couldn't Walk Away: Yehuda Lapian
What do the labels dividing Israeli society actually mean? In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Yehuda Lapian for a thoughtful conversation about identity, community, and the co…
- BONUS EPISODE | Sapir Cohen and Sasha Troufanov: A Light in the Darkness
Boca Raton Synagogue welcomed former hostages Sasha Troufanov and Sapir Cohen for a powerful evening titled Light in the Darkness . Hosted by Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, this conversation offered the community an opportunity to hear directly fro…
- BONUS EPISODE | A Conversation with Ambassador Mike Huckabee
After his viral interview with Tucker Carlson , Ambassador Mike Huckabee joins Rabbi Efrem Goldberg for a candid and wide-ranging conversation recorded in Israel. This conversation discusses: What really happened in the Tucker Carlson inte…
- Are We Raising a Fragile Generation? | Rabbi Daniel Kalish
Is Judaism meant to feel good — or to build strength? In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Rabbi Daniel Kalish for a candid conversation about modern chinuch culture and whether…
- Can Outreach Compete with Social Media? Rabbi Steven Burg
Can social media inspire Torah growth? Can AI expand access to Jewish learning? And what happens when young Jews are influenced more by online personalities than by communal institutions? In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Go…
- From Kuwait to Jerusalem: Mark Halawa's Journey to Judaism
In this deeply moving episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Mark Halawa , who grew up Arab and Muslim in Kuwait, immersed in a culture where Jews were demonized, and ultimately chose a r…
- BONUS EPISODE | Sitting Down with a Muslim Zionist: Loay Alshareef
This bonus episode of Behind the Bima addresses a question many people asked — and some criticized: Why invite an Arab Muslim to speak at a synagogue? Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Loay Alshareef, an Arab Muslim educator who speaks ope…
- Lessons from a Lifetime of Paying Attention: Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter
What does paying attention over time teach you about people? In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz are joined by Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter for a thoughtful conversation about dating, raisin…
- Bringing Out the Best in the Next Generation: Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum
What does it mean to be trusted with other people’s growth? In this episode of Behind the Bima , we sit down with Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum , a renowned educator and mentor, to explore the quiet but weighty decisions that parents and teac…
- From Chart-Topper to Yeshiva Bochur: Alex Clare
Alex Clare built a global music career, reaching hundreds of millions of listeners worldwide. But behind the spotlight, he was searching for something deeper. In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Alex Cl…
- The Demands of Teaching 13,000 Classes: Rabbi Daniel Glatstein
In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Philip Moskowitz sit down with Rabbi Daniel Glatstein to explore what it actually demands to teach seriously over time. Having taught nearly 13,000 classes across years of…
- When Seconds Decide Lives: Eli Beer
In this episode of Behind the Bima , the Rabbis speak with Eli Beer, founder of United Hatzalah, about leadership under pressure and responsibility in moments when lives are at stake. This season of Behind the Bima is sponsored by Julie Ch…
- America's First Orthodox Jewish Female Mayor: Michele Weiss
In this episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg speaks with Michele Weiss , Mayor-Elect of University Heights, Ohio, about leadership, Jewish responsibility, and what it means to step forward at a moment when many feel pressure t…
- The Disturbing Truth About the United Nations: Hillel Neuer of UN Watch
In this compelling episode of Behind the Bima , Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Hillel Neuer , Executive Director of UN Watch, for an unfiltered look behind the scenes of the United Nations—and the global fight against antisemitism, di…
- When Silence Was No Longer an Option: Congressman Randy Fine
In this episode of Behind the Bima, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg sits down with Congressman Randy Fine, one of the most outspoken defenders of the Jewish people and the State of Israel in American politics today. This episode is sponsored by Eli &…
- 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 "Gu…
- 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 I…
- 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 Flo…
- 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…
- 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 d…
- 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…
- 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 st…
- 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…
- 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.…
- 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 dow…
- 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 emot…
- Rabbi Yaakov Klein
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Yaakov Klein, a respected author, musician, and lecturer. Recognized for his dedication to sharing the inner light of Torah…
- Rabbi David Aaron
Rabbi David Aaron is a renowned spiritual educator, author, and speaker dedicated to sharing profound Torah wisdom. He is the founder and dean of Isralight, an international organization committed to inspiring a renaissance in Jewish life.…
- Rabbi Elchonon Zohn,
From Boca Raton, Florida, This is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, Founder and President of the National Association of Chevra Kadisha and Director of the Chevra Kadisha of the…
- Danny Limor
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 Danny Limor, a legendary Mossad operative. They delve into Danny's exceptional care…
- Rabbi Judah Mischel
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Judah Mischel, a passionate advocate for unity and resilience within the Jewish community. Rav Judah is Executive Director o…
- Miriam Haber (Mother of Zecharia Hy’D, a Holy Soldier who Fell in Battle)
From Boca Raton, Florida, This is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Miriam Haber to discuss the life and legacy of her son, Zecharia Haber, who was tragically killed fighting in Gaza. Miriam opens u…
- Jonathan (Yonasan) Rosenblum
From Boca Raton, Florida, This is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Yonasan Rosenblum, a renowned Jewish journalist and the director/spokesperson/founder of Jewish Media Resources. Known for his in-…
- Bonus Episode: October 7 - Reflecting on a Year of Darkness, Resilience and Unity
In this heartfelt conversation, we speak with Dana and Yedidya, reflecting on the events of October 7th and the enduring impact a year later. Dana Cohen's husband Aviad Hy"d was killed on October 7, and Yedidya Harush, leader of Shlomit, h…
- Yaakov Shwekey
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week’s episode, Rabbis Efrem Goldberg, Josh Broide, and Philip Moskowitz are joined by the iconic Jewish music superstar, Yaakov Shwekey. As one of the most beloved voices in the J…
- Rabbi Moshe Weinberger
From Boca Raton, Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbis Efrem Goldberg, Josh Broide, and Philip Moskowitz are joined by Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, a prominent spiritual leader and speaker. Rabbi Weinberger is the fou…
- Dr. Erica Brown
From Boca Raton Florida, This is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbis Efrem Goldberg, Josh Broide, and Philip Moskowitz are joined by Dr. Erica Brown, a leading Jewish educator and author. Recognized for her profound insight int…
- Avi Mayer
On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Avi Mayer, the immediate past editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post. With over 250,000 Twitter followers and a monthly reach in the tens of millions, Avi is r…
- Rabbi Andrew Shaw
On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and Rabbi Josh Broide are joined by Rabbi Andrew Shaw, director of the Simchas Torah Project and CEO of Mizrachi UK. Rabbi Shaw shares the inspiration and goals behind the Simchas Torah Project,…
- Bonus Episode: Conversation With Former Hostage, Sapir Cohen
Listen to a powerful and emotional conversation with Sapir Cohen, a former hostage, as she relays her harrowing experience of captivity and the remarkable journey of survival. This conversation is a poignant reminder of the ongoing atrocit…
- Rabbi Dovid Gottlieb (and Live Update from Kiryat Shmona)
From Boca Raton Florida, this is Behind the Bima. On this week's episode, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is joined by Rabbi Gottlieb, Rabbi of Kehillat HaEla, Rebbe at Yeshivat Har Etzion, and Managing Director of Tzalash. Rabbi Gottlieb shares his…