Inside ArtScroll Podcast

He started literally with nothing, and built an empire of business – and chesed. He was a brilliant businessman whom Rabbi Moshe Sherer called “the malach of shalom.” He was a man who blended startling financial acumen with mussar hashkafah – and made it work! He was the unique, inimitable Reb Benny Fishoff. B’Ahavah, Benny – the story of Reb Benny Fishoff – is not a typical “rags to riches” story. Rather, it’s a “riches to riches” story. The story of a young man, sole survivor of his family after the Holocaust, who took the riches of chassidic devotion, the riches of years of intense yeshivah learning, the riches of memories of his warm and loving family, and who used those riches to build, to listen, to counsel and to enrich others. It is a story of amazing business savvy combined with profound mentchlichkeit, a story filled with siyata diShmaya and ultimate triumph. In this compelling Inside ArtScroll episode, we get to hear from Benny’s sons, Dovi Fishoff and Avi Fishoff, who describe how Reb Benny went from Lodz to Shanghai to the executive suites of New York City skyscrapers – entering the hearts of countless Jews whom he helped with money, advice, and overflowing love. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

The Ribnitzer Rebbe was a tzaddik, a ba’al mofeis (a miracle worker), and so much more. He became a living legend, the address for thousands seeking berachos, first in Russia, then in Eretz Yisrael and, eventually in America. His intense avodah included fasting, non-stop Torah learning, and hours and hours of profound tefillah. Throughout all his trials and tribulations, Reb Chaim Zanvil, the Ribnitzer Rebbe, found a way to serve Hashem. One of those who merited to serve the rebbe for years, forging a close and personal relationship, was Reb Moshe Tzvi Berkowitz. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, we sit down with Reb Moshe Tzvi to learn about what he learned from the rebbe, and to hear firsthand stories about his interactions with the rebbe – including the rebbe’s famous “teniah” (tune) that he made famous, and so much more. Watch and be uplifted. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Saying Kaddish for a loved one. It is one of the most well-observed Jewish traditions. However, its cryptic language often makes this sacred and hallowed prayer feel unrelatable. In a powerful and inspiring new book, Rabbi Yechiel Spero changes that, using classic Torah sources, insights, and — of course! — stories to explore the essence and, indeed, the soul of Kaddish. In The Soul of Kaddish, you find chizuk, hope and encouragement in the words of Kaddish. In the following Inside ArtScroll interview, we speak to Rabbi Spero about this incredible book, and about finding chizuk in challenging times – and always. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rabbi Chaim Aryeh Zev Ginzberg is a beloved rav in Cedarhurst who has engaged thousands of readers with his incisive articles in the Torah world’s most prestigious periodicals. Rabbi Ginzberg has a genius for weaving together personal stories, Torah hashkafah, encouragement and chizuk, communal issues, and, yes, gentle and spot-on mussar. In his book, Rays of Hope, and in this Inside ArtScroll interview, he takes us “up close and personal” with memories of his own nisyonos — including his terrifying bout with Covid, when the doctors felt there was no hope left for him, as well as the losses of his beloved daughter Sarala and his oldest grandson, Chanoch Jeger. Rabbi Ginzberg’s courageous and uplifting responses to these losses — which include his founding of the well-known Ohel Sarala global initiative — give us chizuk and meaning to the challenges we all face. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Reb Moyshe Silk, an American attorney, writer, and former government official, is quite an accomplished individual. Much of the world knows him as Mitchell Silk, a brilliant legal mind, an authority on Chinese law and infrastructure finance, and the only Chassidic Jew ever confirmed by the Senate to one of the highest positions in the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and, for that matter, the U.S. Government. Many people are privileged to know him as Reb Moyshe, a talmid chacham of note, a gifted writer, and a talented teacher of Torah. Despite the many accolades he’s received, perhaps Reb Moyshe’s most notable accomplishment to date is his translation and elucidation of Kedushas Levi, one of the greatest Chassidic classics on the Torah, written by Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. Kedushas Levi has been treasured and studied for more than two centuries, and now, Reb Moyshe’s magnificent edition, published by the Mesorah Heritage Foundation in three volumes, brings Kedushas Levi to English readers in all its grandeur. We spoke to Reb Moyshe to gain his insight into the effort he invested in producing this work. [Purchase the set HERE.]

In the more than five decades that he was involved in Agudath Israel of America, rising from a member of their youth group to the Executive Vice President of the organization, Rabbi Shmuel Bloom encountered literally thousands of fascinating people: gedolei Yisrael, dedicated askanim, politicians from all sides of the political spectrum, and so many “just plain Jews” – who proved, by their actions, that there is no such thing as a “just plain Jew.” Rabbi Bloom met with gedolim at Agudah events, at meetings of the Moetzes Gedolei Torah, and in quiet, urgent conferences. He chatted with them in cars and on Shabbos afternoons at conventions. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we hear stories from Rabbi Bloom, many of them not widely known, of generations of greatness. In these “stories behind the stories,” more of which you’ll find in Rabbi Bloom’s book, On the Shoulders of Giants, we gain a unique understanding of the inner workings of daas Torah, in all its glory. We also meet the Jewish people’s askanim, up close and personal. Watch and be inspired. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rabbi Nachum Lehman, founder and director of CSB CARE, has devoted his life to helping people with disabilities acquire or regain their ability to daven, learn, teach and be independent and productive members of their community. It all started in 1996 when he was asked to write a program to help someone continue learning after he lost his sight. The project was extremely successful and Rabbi Lehman came to realize how many others needed similar assistance. The original software evolved into a program for low vision and reading impaired clients and was further configured to help with communication for ALS clients. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, we learn more about how Rabbi Lehman has enabled the aforementioned clients to utilize ArtScroll’s works, while sharing a hands-on look at some of the incredible programs he’s developed.

Rabbi Aaron Brafman was the much-beloved and revered menahel of Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. He was also a respected author and a dedicated askan. But more: He was a man who loved every Jew, who saw potential where others saw failure. In the words of a talmid, he was a man “who lived and breathed Klal Yisrael; whose days were filled with Torah and maasim tovim … and most of all, who epitomized the term ‘rebbi.’” In this interview, we spoke to Rabbi Brafman’s son, Rabbi Avrohom Baruch Brafman, and Rabbi Brafman’s close talmid, Rabbi Dov Keilson.

Rabbi Aaron Brafman was the much-beloved and revered menahel of Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. He was also a respected author and a dedicated askan. But more: He was a man who loved every Jew, who saw potential where others saw failure. In the words of a talmid, he was a man “who lived and breathed Klal Yisrael; whose days were filled with Torah and maasim tovim … and most of all, who epitomized the term ‘rebbi.’” In this interview, the author of Rabbi Brafman’s biography, Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, gives us a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary man.

Rabbi Moshe Sherer not only changed history, he made history. After a half-century of Rabbi Sherer’s wise, visionary, charismatic, and indefatigable advocacy and leadership, the Torah community was luxuriant, respected, and influential — and the gedolei Torah were its authoritative voice. Much that we take for granted today was shepherded by him through Congress and legislatures, through executive chambers and the courts, such as aid to yeshivos, the rights of Torah institutions, and employment security for Shabbos observers. Rabbi Sherer was at home in many worlds. He was the loyal servant and confidant of great Torah sages; and a friend and adviser of people in the highest echelons of power – but he was attentive to the needs of the humblest “Reb Yisrael.” He was a visionary, yet he had insight into the art of the possible. Now, 25 years since his passing, Inside ArtScroll features a scintillating interview with his son, Rav Shimshon Sherer, who shares personal memories of his legendary father, who was center stage, yet remained an intensely private, loving family man. This is an interview you don’t want to miss.

In his brilliant essay on ahavas Yisrael, the Beis HaLevi, Rav Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, beautifully explains the mitzvah of loving your fellow Jew. Who does the mitzvah apply to? When does it apply? What do I need to do to fulfill it properly? The Beis HaLevi also provides incentives to help us do the mitzvah in the best possible way. Translated and elucidated by Rabbi David Sutton, author of ArtScroll’s bestselling Beis HaLevi on Bitachon, Beis Halevi on Ahavas Yisrael contains wonderful insights, uplifting stories, and in-depth appendices, as well as a special section of touching anecdotes about gedolim from a range of generations and communities. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Sutton gives us an inside look as this life-changing work.

In ArtScroll’s Kisvei HaRambam, writings of the Rambam, including his famous 13 Principles of Faith and related selections, are translated phrase-by-phrase, annotated, and elucidated with additional insights. Enlightening, inspiring, and engrossing, this ArtScroll commentary provides an opportunity to engage with fundamental aspects of the Torah in English and understand them clearly as never before. This Inside ArtScroll interview features Rabbi Shnayor Burton, one of the brilliant talmidei chachomim who worked on this project and other prominent works. The conversation is informative, educational – and compelling.

An Israeli child is born in a Ukrainian bomb shelter -- and United Hatzalah brings her home under fire ... A United Hatzalah volunteer scales a 12-foot-wall – and is the first to respond to the tragedy of Meron ... Eli Beer, founder of United Hatzalah, slips and breaks his leg racing to an emergency -- and manages to crawl to the choking child and save her life ... The amazing work of Israel’s United Hatzalah began, incredibly, when five-year-old Eli Beer witnessed a terror attack and dreamed of being the one to save the victim. While still a young teen, Eli set out to make that dream come true, creating an underground network of pioneering EMTs who were determined to bring their life-saving skills to victims in only 90 seconds, no matter where they were. Eli Beer’s book, 90 Seconds, written by the mega-talented Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, is the story of how a boy who failed in school created one of the world’s largest all-volunteer emergency services. It’s the story of dramatic rescues, sometimes under fire. Of life-changing and life-saving innovations such as the “ambucycle.” Of bringing United Hatzalah’s lifesaving experience to Nepal, Haiti, and, most recently, Ukraine, and their heart-rending rescue work in the Surfside and Versailles wedding hall tragedies. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we get to learn, from Eli himself, more of the story of how with determination, vision, self-sacrifice and compassion -- and, of course, siyata D’Shmaya -- lives can be saved and dreams can come true. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

In Living Chessed, Rabbi Avrohom Asher Makovsky shares with us many Torah sources that talk about chessed, inspirational insights and guidance and, above all, stories of how chessed – even something as small as a compliment, a smile, or a hug – can transform the lives of both the one giving and the one receiving the chessed. In brief, readable chapters, we will discover how everyone can be a great baal chessed. In Living Chessed and in this uplifting Inside Artscroll interview, Rabbi Makovsky shows us how we can, indeed, “live chessed” throughout our days, enriching the lives of others. And enriching our own lives as well. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Fishel Schachter makes us think. Makes us laugh. And makes us better. Better parents, better people, better Jews. Rabbi Schachter knows what happens in our lives. The little annoyances and the big challenges. The happiness and the angst. He knows what happens to us – because it often happens to him as well! And when “life” happens – the vanishing parking space, the bored kids on vacation, the last minute pre-Shabbos misadventures – he knows what we should do. Learn a lesson of hashgachah pratis. Think of a story that enhances our emunah. Discover an insight that puts everything in a different – more positive – light. Remember to thank Hashem for everything. And, of course, smile and find the joy in His plans for us. In Did This Ever Happen to You? Rabbi Schachter, a popular rebbi, speaker, maggid shiur, columnist and storyteller, combines practical advice in chinuch and middos development with anecdotes and stories that are always engaging and often laugh-out-loud funny. Did This Ever Happen To You? touches on topics ranging from seeing hashgachah pratis in our lives to mitzvos such as hachnasas orchim and giving tzedakah; from strengthening our bitachon to outlooks on tefillah. In this exciting Inside ArtScroll interview, like in his book, we see that no one tells a story quite like Rabbi Schachter, using stories as an incredibly effective - and often funny - means of guiding us through whatever challenges we are facing. Watch…and be prepared to laugh and to learn. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Twenty years ago, Roy (Yisroel) and Leah (Linda) Neuberger electrified the Jewish world with Roy’s book, From Central Park to Sinai, sharing the story of their return to Torah and Jewish life. Now, in the riveting From Sinai to Yerushalayim, bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer joins them on their fascinating journey, revealing new and unusual parts of the Neubergers’ lives, both before they became observant and in the two decades since they shared their story and became world-traveling ambassadors of Torah. In this fascinating Inside ArtScroll interview, Roy and Leah describe how they were born to wealth and privilege, and educated in the most prestigious schools. Roy and Leah should have been contented and happy, and yet something was missing, always missing ... until they found Torah. In this interview, and in the new page-turner of a book, prepare to discover an adventure-filled life, full of surprises and inspiration. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Ron Yitzchok Eisenman is the rav of Congregation Ahavas Israel in Passaic, New Jersey, and a renowned speaker and writer. Born and raised in Brooklyn, after marriage he spent years learning in kollel in Eretz Yisroel and in the States. After teaching Torah as a rebbi in yeshiva for two decades, in 1997 he was appointed as the rav of Ahavas Israel, which today hosts forty minyanim a day. In addition to his rabbinic functions, Rabbi Eisenman is a professor at Lander College for Women and has published three books, including Shul With A View, which allows the reader to enter the world of a shul rabbi, brimming with unforgettable personalities, joyous events, and sometimes tragic misunderstandings. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, you’ll revel in Rabbi Eisenman’s honesty and be intrigued by his life story. Rabbi Eisenman has a way with words that brings people and places to life, and a sense of humor that shines. Watch and enjoy. [Buy the book HERE]

Rav Elya Meir Sorotzkin zt”l became a rosh yeshivah at a very young age and, with “blood, sweat and tears,” as he would often say, built his yeshiva into a premier institution, and, more importantly, built individual talmidim. Because he personally went through the painstaking process of self-discovery and growth, he was able to identify with the struggles and triumphs of his talmidim in a way that few could. This Inside ArtScroll interview features a conversation with a close talmid, Rabbi Tzvi Uhr, who describes the lifelong impact that his rebbi had on his talmidim, giving us an appreciation for how every page in the biography of Rav Elya Meir Sorotzkin will inspire and uplift us. [Buy the book HERE]

Nachman’s Schachter’s Ten Steps to Eternity is a unique book. It is a sefer that examines the ten nisyonos of Avraham Avinu through the eyes of the Midrash, with fascinating details and thought-provoking insights. It is also a book of many true, original, never-before-published stories about Avraham’s “children” – contemporary Jews who have incorporated Avraham’s beliefs and accomplishments into their own lives. This combination of insights and incredible stories leaves one amazed by how our fellow Jews courageously and faithfully follow our forefather’s holy path. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, the author discusses why he wrote the book – and why he thinks every Jew will gain immeasurably from reading it. [Buy the book HERE]

Rabbi Heshy Kleinman changed the way tens of thousands of Jews daven through the bestselling classics, Praying With Fire, Praying With Fire 2, and Yearning With Fire. He also showed us how to truly take advantage of the powerful gift of teshuvah in his book, The Power of Teshuvah. Rabbi Kleinman lectures internationally on tefillah and other topics and is the co-founder of the V’Ani Tefillah Foundation, dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance and power of prayer, and to providing education, inspiration, and tools for more sincere, powerful and effective tefillah. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Kleinman shares details about his background, how he got into book-writing, and his vision for a 40-day worldwide teshuvah initiative.

Bitachon. How to get it. How to strengthen it. How to learn to rely on Hashem. In every part of our lives. Bitachon – knowing that you can fully rely on Hashem, and only on Hashem – is an essential part of our Chovos HaLevavos, our “service of the heart.” It is the wondrous gift that enables us to enjoy the blessing of “menuchas hanefesh” – a hard-to-define concept that includes serenity, tranquility, and peace of mind. In his newest book, A Daily Dose of Bitachon, Rabbi David Sutton, author of many important works including Beis HaLevi on Bitachon and Embrace Shabbos, shares with us more than 130 readings, designed for the consistent daily use that enables truly effective change. Drawn from the classic wisdom of the Chovos HaLevavos Shaar HaBitachon, these insights into this “service of the heart” are remarkably contemporary, speaking to our own challenges. Each reading ends with a practical takeaway, ensuring that we incorporate bitachon into our everyday encounters. And of course, Rabbi Sutton shares stories that show us the amazing power of bitachon. In this Inside ArtScroll episode, Rabbi Sutton discusses the new book, including how to reframe our thoughts, how to properly balance human effort with bitachon in Hashem, and how to strengthen our connection to Hashem both in good times and hard ones. This book is a must-have – and this interview is as engaging as the book is! Watch and enjoy. Buy the book HERE!

Meaningful Minute founder and coordinator Nachi Gordon understands the power of one minute: every word a block with which you can build, every thought filled with potential to uplift – short, but so powerful. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Nachi discusses his Meaningful Minute book and his journey working to creating the Meaningful Minute platform, ensuring that the meaningful messages he transmits have the power to impact people’s lives positively. Buy the book HERE!

Over the last decade, tens of thousands of children have been educated and informed by ArtScroll’s Let’s Stay Safe book, which some educators have called “the most important picture book you will ever share with your children.” In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Yaakov Horowitz speaks about the groundbreaking book, his efforts to educate children about personal safety, contemporary chinuch, and much more. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Hacham Yom Tob Yedid lived an epic life of courage and devotion through his decades as Chief Rabbi of the glorious Halab (Aleppo) community. As the community’s leader during its last days, he courageously faced challenges, torture, and threats. Amidst the confusion and turmoil, Hacham Yom Tob had the enormous responsibility of keeping his community devoted to Torah and tradition. And he accomplished the impossible: Halab remained as it had for centuries, a city where everyone kept Shabbat, prayed in the Bet Knesset, and stayed connected to Torah. How did he do it? How did a young man, thrown into a role with great responsibility, respond so fearlessly, demonstrating wisdom and leadership well beyond his years? The ArtScroll biography For the Sake of Heaven takes us on an epic journey from Halab of old to tree-lined Brooklyn streets. With its fascinating twists and turns, this is a biography that reads almost like a novel, leaving us awed as we see so clearly the impact of one who devotes his life to teaching and studying Torah. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Meyer Yedid, son of Hacham Yom Tob, speaks about his father’s incredible story of heroism, courage and the power granted to one who is totally devoted to Torah. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

How did Rebbetzin Sara Murik – the beloved, larger-than-life “Morah Murik” – live a life of such vast accomplishment and overflowing love? How did she care for thousands – and for every individual Jew? How did a little Yerushalmi girl become one of America’s most renowned Bais Yaakov educators? Proudly wearing her school uniform, like every other Bais Yaakov girl under her care, Morah Murik rarely walked. “Our Morah in Uniform” raced and danced and sang through the corridors of the schools she founded, first in Chicago and later in Lakewood. For Morah Murik, no task was too small: Though principal of the school, she would wash the floors in the absence of the janitor. And no challenge was too large – not even the daunting task of founding a brand new school at the age of 70. In this Inside ArtScroll episode, two of her grandsons, Rabbi Shragy Zeldes and Rabbi Shragi Malinowitz, share memories of their grandmother, describing her overflowing love for people and her joy and creativity as an educator. Morah Murik’s impact continues to be felt through a new absorbing, engaging ArtScroll biography, aptly titled Our Morah in Uniform, still teaching us to feel the strength of Hashem’s love for us, and helping us return that love to Him and to His children.

The 13 Ikkarei Emunah, the Ani Maamins, appear in our siddurim, and many of us recite them every day after tefillah. And yet … do we understand what they mean in our own everyday lives and actions? In a new thoughtful work, Ani Maamin – A Mission for Life, Rabbi Yechezkel Elias examines each of the 13 Ikkarei Emunah. Using contemporary examples that we can all understand and relate to, he makes the often difficult concepts contained in the 13 Ikkarim clear, comprehensible, and very, very relevant. Each Ikkar is followed by a section titled How does this affect my daily life?, which shows us how to put these foundational beliefs into practice in our own lives. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Elias discusses his new book, how it came to be, and some personal background. The Ani Maamin Initiative was created l’ilui nishmas habachur Dovi Steinmetz z”l, one of the 45 precious neshamos who lost their lives in the Meron Lag Ba’omer tragedy. Created by Dovi’s father, Reb Shloimi Steinmetz, the initiative has successfully encouraged thousands to say the 13 Ikkarei Emunah. As part of the initiative, Rabbi Elias gave a series of shiurim on each of the 13 Ikkarei Emunah, which form the basis of this beautifully presented book. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Rabbi Dovid Orlofsky has been involved in the field of Jewish education and outreach for over thirty years. He grew up in North Merrick, Long Island, one of six boys, of whom, he says, he is the quietest. He studied at Yeshiva Chofetz Chaim and Yeshiva Heichal HaTorah, and for nine years was the Long Island Director of the National Conference of Synagogue Youth. In 1988, Rabbi Orlofsky moved to Israel, where he lives in Yerushalayim with his wife Simi and their children and grandchildren. He now teaches in various yeshivos and seminaries in Israel. Several years ago, ArtScroll was privileged to publish Everyone’s Entitled to My Opinion – The Wisdom and Wit of Rabbi Dovid Orlofsky, containing fascinating insights and practical advice from Rabbi Orlofsky, a one-of-a-kind phenomenon in the world of Jewish thought. A globe-trotting speaker and beloved teacher, he takes a blunt, honest, always wise and often very funny look at our lives as observant Jews. He finds what’s wrong and shows us how to make it right. He inspires us to reach higher than we ever believed we could, just by doing just a little bit more, becoming a little bit better. That’s why this special Inside ArtScroll interview with Rabbi Orlofsky is a treat for the senses. If you’ve ever heard Rabbi Orlofsky speak, you’ll know how transformative – and entertaining – his lectures and message are. And if you haven’t yet had the privilege of hearing him, prepare for an exhilarating experience that will show you how to live better, live higher, and be the best Jew you can be.

Rabbi Shai Graucher was a ben bayis at the home of Rav Chaim Kanievsky zt”l for almost two decades, forging a most unique relationship with the gadol hador. He is also a popular author who has brought Rav Chaim’s teachings to the English-speaking public in works such as his five-volume Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Chumash, Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Zemiros, Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Tehillim, and his latest release, Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Siddur. Reb Shai was a member of Rav Chaim’s inner circle and a fixture in his home, serving as a conduit for countless communications with the gadol hador. Almost no one outside of Rav Chaim’s family was as familiar with the goings-on at 23 Rechov Rashbam as Reb Shai was for the last 18 years. In honor of the release of his brand new volume, Inside ArtScroll once again welcomed Reb Shai, who traveled in to the United States from Israel to discuss his latest work and – with emotion, passion, and even tears – share fascinating firsthand stories and accounts about Rav Chaim. This interview is enthralling, captivating and uplifting. Enjoy and be inspired.

“Without knowing the past, we are woefully ignorant about the present, and certainly have no clue as to what the future will be.” “History is our rare-view mirror. So says Rabbi Berel Wein, world-renowned historian, author and lecturer. And nobody brings Jewish history to vivid life like Rabbi Wein. Born in Chicago, Rabbi Wein went on to experience a successful career in the rabbinate, while speaking all over the world. In this captivating Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Wein discusses his newest book, Struggles, Challenges and Tradition, in which he takes us on a grand tour of the many battlefields to defend tradition during the years 1820-1940. Rabbi Wein also shares stories of his youth and memories from his fascinating career. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

One of the kedoshim of Meron was habochur Dovi Steinmetz z”l of Montreal. Since last Lag Ba’omer, Dovi’s father, Reb Shloimi Steinmetz, has become an ambassador of faith, asking people to recite the 13 Ani Maamins printed in every siddur after davening each morning l’ilui nishmas the pure neshomah of Yissochor Dov Berish ben Reb Shloime. People have responded…and how! With enthusiasm and passion, eager not just to create zechusim for this extraordinary neshomah, but to bring a little more emunah into their own lives, men and women, adults and children, have joined this initiative. Regardless of community, demographic, level of observance or family minhag, emunah lives in the neshomah, and for anyone with a Divine spark, the message resonated. Over 120,000 Ani Maamin cards have been distributed to people all over the world. With his conviction and sincerity, Reb Shloimi has been opening hearts across the Jewish world. Based on shiurim inspired by Reb Shloimi’s initiative, a new book, Ani Maamin – A Mission for Life, has been published by ArtScroll. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Reb Shloimi gives us a glimpse of the global revolution he’s spearheaded, turning tragedy into inspiration. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

He was a gadol who lived and breathed Torah learning. A member of Eretz Yisrael’s Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah. A master educator who influenced literally thousands of talmidim, from pre-schoolers to respected mechanchim. He was part of a family that included some of the greatest names in pre-war Europe. And it all started in a public school in Pittsburgh. Rav Yitzchok Scheiner’s journey from a Pittsburgh high school to his simple Yerushalmi home and the hallowed halls of Kamenitz Yeshivah is a story of breathtaking Hashgachah Pratis, diligence, and determination. It is a story, also, of the dedicated people who enabled the budding math and Latin scholar to become a gadol b’Torah. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Nachman Seltzer discusses his new book, which paints a vivid and absorbing portrait of Rav Scheiner as an incomparable mechanech, a loving father to his own children and his talmidim, a man of incredible sensitivity and integrity. Through his teachings and personal example, Rav Scheiner influenced many thousands. Now, with the publication of this biography, he continues to teach -- and inspire -- all of us with his shining example of gadlus. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan’s Sefer Chofetz Chaim is the foundation of the “shemiras halashon revolution” that changed the way we speak — and the way we live our lives. ArtScroll’s brand new elucidated version of this work, a product of thousands of hours of research and writing by a dedicated team, makes the words of the Chofetz Chaim accessible to all, while notes and annotations bring valuable new insights. This Inside ArtScroll interview features a conversation with Rabbi Avrohom Neuberger, chief editor of this project, as well as a veteran writer of the Schottenstein Talmud and other Mesorah Heritage Foundation projects. The conversation touches on some fascinating practical applications of the laws of speech and what makes this edition of Sefer Chofetz Chaim so unique. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Gedolim and world leaders. Politicians, spies and soldiers. Inspiration and mystery, bullets and bitachon. The Insider has it all. How did a young journalist create a revolution in the Israeli government - by defending the honor of Shabbos? What is the inside story of the Iranian nuclear program -- and how is Israel managing to defend itself? Could a Polish non-Jew possibly be Reb Yisroel’s brother, who’d disappeared during the terrible Holocaust years? For more than 50 years, Reb Yisroel Katzover has been one of Israel’s premier military journalists. As an observant Jew, he has often served as an unofficial liaison between the country’s military and political leadership and the nation’s gedolei Torah. As a pioneer in the world of Jewish music, he’s encouraged the careers of some of today’s most preeminent musicians. In this unforgettable memoir, we learn the inside story about the personalities that he’s met, the travels he’s taken, and the lessons he’s learned from a half century of journalistic adventures. As the “ultimate insider,” we hear stories that we’ve never heard before, that we never dreamed could be true. No one tells a story quite like Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, author of almost 40 books. Combine his unique storytelling talents with a man who has countless fascinating stories - and you get a book that’s part thriller, part secret history, part inspiration - and 100% excitement! In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Seltzer gives us an inside look at The Insider. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Rabbi Yonah Weinrib’s name has become synonymous with elaborate manuscript illumination, combining a wide array of art techniques and media to enhance his exacting calligraphy. An accomplished author and artist, he has published numerous volumes, including his internationally acclaimed edition of Pirkei Avos. Rabbi Weinrib’s illuminations, designs and writings contain a fascinating interplay of artistic imagery and profound research. His newest volume, The Halpern Edition - The Childhood Treasury, helps us understand the meaning behind the celebration of each simcha, with magnificent illuminations, insights and commentary on birthdays, bris, kiddush, shalom zachor, pidyon haben, upsherin, chinuch halachos, and more. In honor of the new release, Rabbi Weinrib spoke to Inside ArtScroll about his storied career, having been blessed with a gift from Hashem to fuse the two passions in my life – his love of Torah and his love of the arts. He also addresses his musical talents as a noted composer and much more. The interview features images and audio of the various projects Rabbi Weinrib discusses. [Purchase the book HERE.]

Sometimes, it just takes a moment... To inspire and enlighten and uplift us • To open our hearts and bring us to tears or laughter • To strengthen our faith in Hashem, in His kindness and HisHashgachah • To guide us into finding the immense power that lies ... within ourselves! Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger knows how to find a great story - and how to tell it beautifully. In his new book, Powerful Moments he shares with us hundreds of short stories, each with its own powerful message. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, we learn about Rabbi Hisiger’s youth, his writing career, some background and encounters, and, of course, how and why he wrote his new bestselling book. [PURCHASE THE BOOK HERE.]

R’ Eli Stefansky’s journey to becoming one of the world’s most well-known Daf Yomi maggidei shiur has been anything but typical. He is the president of Prime Quest Management, but, as he tells us, he spends little time on his business and almost all his time on his Daf Yomi shiur and learning Torah. He describes himself as a “regular guy” like anyone else, but his “8 Minute Daf” chazarah videos and his daily Daf Yomi shiur have gained a massive following and are now watched and heard by thousands of people all over the globe each day. In this compelling Inside ArtScroll episode, learn about Eli’s fascinating upbringing, why he abruptly left American life to live in Eretz Yisroel, how he’s benefitted from ArtScroll and the Schottenstein Talmud, and why one of his passions is to get people to learn as much Torah as possible.

Thanks to Rabbi Moshe Don Kestenbaum, thousands have found a way to improve themselves and their lives. In his new book, Olam Ha’avodah, Rabbi Kestenbaum shows us how to strengthen our connection to Hashem. Did you ever wonder what you are doing here? Why did Hashem put you in the exact place where you are? What really is your mission in life? Olam Ha’avodah will help you clarify this – and more. Like his previous book, Olam Hamiddos, Olam Ha’avodah is easy-to-read, down to earth, and deeply inspiring. In this Inside ArtScroll interview, Rabbi Kestenbaum, a master mechanech, speaks about his new book and also delves into compelling issues related to chinuch, self-improvement, clarity of purpose, and so much more. You will emerge from this interview with a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh understanding of how to deal with other people of all ages. [Purchase the new book HERE.]

Esther Jungreis was a young Holocaust survivor who became a friend, advisor, confidante, Torah teacher and often even a surrogate mother to thousands: singles and families, prime ministers, presidents and prisoners, and soldiers and spiritual seekers throughout the world. A pioneer in Jewish outreach, she ignited the “pintele Yid” that lies within every Jew. In this uplifting Inside ArtScroll interview, her daughter, Mrs. Slovie Jungreis-Wolff, speaks about the Rebbetzin’s passion for Torah and Jewish continuity that enriched the lives of millions throughout the world, a story captured in The Rebbetzin, the bestselling biography authored by Rabbi Nachman Seltzer. Watch and be inspired as you learn more about the life of one of the twentieth century's most fascinating, charismatic and spiritually inspiring Jewish personalities. [Purchase the book HERE.] Watch all Inside ArtScroll episodes at: Inside.Artscroll.com

Day after day. Week after week. Year after year. Neshamah after neshamah, Rabbi Meir Schuster was at the Kosel, the Central Bus Station, the Hebrew University campus, searching for people who were searching for meaning - and bringing them to places where they would find it. He was the most unlikely of outreach professionals. He was shy, tongue-tied, inarticulate and decidedly “uncool.” And yet, more than almost anyone, he brought Jews - thousands, perhaps tens of thousands - back to their Torah heritage. This episode of Inside ArtScroll features a conversation with Yonoson Rosenblum, renowned bestselling author whose latest offering, A Tap on the Shoulder, brings us the stories of the young men and women who, thanks to Rabbi Meir Schuster, traded their backpacks for Torah. Rabbi Rosenblum’s fascinating book, highlighted in this interview, brings to life a magical moment, the decades when searching youth found meaning and a “baal teshuvah movement” was born. [Purchase A Tap on the Shoulder HERE.]

Rabbi Yaakov Yosef Reinman is, first and foremost, a noted author of acclaimed sefarim and a talmid chochom who has spent his years in the beis medrash. He is also the bestselling author of a classic series of books - including The Promised Child and The Marrano Prince - written under the pseudonym Avner Gold. A talmid of Rav Yitzchok Hutner who later learned in Lakewood, Rabbi Reinman is a brilliant linguist with many fascinating stories and insights to share, which he does so eloquently in this episode of Inside ArtScroll. A delight to listen to, you’ll be entertained and impressed as you hear about Rabbi Reinman’s life and accomplishments. [Purchase Rabbi Reinman’s Avner Gold books HERE and his other books HERE.]

Written by the Chafetz Chaim's son-in-law, Rav Aharon ben Rav Yosef HaKohen, Sefer Avodas Hakorbanos offers a clear exposition of the avodah in the Beis HaMikdash, including all the korbanos. ArtScroll’s Avodas Hakorbanos - Friedman Family Edition contains an elucidated English translation, including an explanatory introduction to each paragraph, notes and diagrams that make the beauty of the Beis HaMikdash services accessible to all of us. This Inside ArtScroll interview features a fascinating conversation with two experts in the avodas Beis HaMikdash, Rabbi Yoav Elan, who in addition to writing and illustrating for ArtScroll leads an online forum relating to the Beis HaMikdash, and Daniel Rubin, who delivers a weekly shiur in Avodas Hakorbanos. You’ll be inspired by their passion and enthusiasm for this subject, as they explain how the new Avodas Hakorbanos makes study of this topic exciting, easier, and more accessible than ever before. [Purchase ArtScroll’s Avodas Hakorbanos HERE.]

He came from a long line of chassidic leaders, reaching all the way back to the Baal Shem Tov. He was the son of the first Bostoner Rebbe, Rav Pinchos Dovid Horowitz. He was a brilliant Torah scholar, having learned at Mesivta Torah Vodaath under one of the greatest roshei yeshivah of that time. And yet in his profound modesty, Rav Levi Yitzchok Horowitz did not see himself as a rebbe. Hashem, though, decreed otherwise. When a small group of his father’s followers pleaded with Rav Levi Yitzchok to come to Boston and lead their shul, he acquiesced. And in the next sixty years, he and his devoted rebbetzin would change the lives of thousands, becoming a pivotal figure in the flourishing of Torah life in America in the decades after World War II. In The Rebbe on Beacon Street, you will read of the rebbe’s wisdom and warmth, of his burning desire to help every Jew who came his way, both physically and spiritually. This episode of Inside ArtScroll features an interview with his son, the present Bostoner Rebbe of Boston, Rav Naftali Horowitz, who shares personal memories of his father, fascinating stories, and uplifting words of chizuk. [Purchase The Rebbe on Beacon Street HERE.]

Bestselling author Rabbi Yechiel Spero has enthralled readers and audiences across the world for two decades. Few people tell a story like Rabbi Spero does, as his style of writing and speaking, flavored with experience, fervor, and humility, make his vignettes a rich resource for all. In his latest offering, Rabbi Spero gives us a new understanding of Yosheiv Beseiser through his fascinating commentary and dozens of inspiring and unusual stories. This beautiful work opens our eyes and we see Hashem’s protective Arms around us, a Father shielding His children — and we are no longer afraid. [Purchase the book here.] In this compelling interview, Rabbi Spero offers his refreshing, candid and invigorating take on writing books, on reaching out to others, on his role as a mechanech, and so much more.

Rabbi Eliezer Krohn’s brand new A Woman’s Guide to Practical Halachah explores many important topics, with a focus on situations that women and girls face in their everyday lives. Topics covered include the halachos of daily living, Shabbos, each of the yamim tovim, preparing and kashering the kitchen for Pesach, the laws of yichud, tevillas keilim and many more. All halachos have been reviewed by Rabbi Noach Isaac Oelbaum. Must a girl hear Kiddush on Shabbos? May she eat before Kiddush? Must a single girl light neiros Chanukah? How about giving mishloach manos? Is a woman or girl obligated to take the lulav and esrog on Succos? How does one light Shabbos candles in a hospital? Which parts of tefillah should women and girls recite? Written with great clarity, with source notes for further study, A Woman’s Guide to Practical Halachah is a book that Jewish women will refer to again and again. In this interview, Rabbi Krohn discusses his new work, while sharing fascinating memories of growing up in the home of his illustrious father, famed author and speaker Rabbi Paysach Krohn. To purchase the brand new A Woman’s Guide to Practical Halachah, CLICK HERE.

How did the 21-year-old newlywed from Meah Shearim form an immediate bond with street kids, gangsters, and hardened prisoners? How did he transform a crime-ridden city into a place of hope, learning, and Torah? How did he begin with 18 boys who needed a home and create a vast empire of chesed for tens of thousands of children? How did Rav Yitzchak Dovid Grossman of Migdal HaEmek become a symbol of Jewish unity, revered by religious and non-religious alike, beloved by all of Klal Yisrael? How did he become a Living Legend? In the following fascinating interview, we learn some of what bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer captures in his brand new book, Living Legend, showing us the mesirus nefesh, compassion, vision and incredible siyata d’Shmaya that have always been a part of Rav Yitzchak Dovid Grossman’s life. And as we are entertained and engaged by these truly remarkable stories, we will also be learning just how he did it — through the incomparable power of absolute ahavas Yisrael. To purchase the new Living Legend book, CLICK HERE.

For over 45 years, Uncle Moishy has entertained, inspired, and educated. Moish Tannenbaum takes his job quite seriously, and amazingly, after all these years, he has not lost a step. In honor of the release of a brand new bestselling storybook and music album, Inside ArtScroll sat down with Uncle Moishy, giving us an exclusive inside look behind the Jewish world’s most well-known entertainer, taking a trip down memory lane and learning about what keeps everyone’s favorite uncle going. It’s an uplifting conversation full of insight and inspiration. To purchase the new Uncle Moishy book and album, CLICK HERE.

Rabbi Shai Graucher is a popular author who has brought Rav Chaim Kanievsky’s teachings to the English-speaking public in works such as his five-volume Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Chumash, Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Zemiros, and his brand new release, Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Tehillim. Reb Shai is a member of Rav Chaim’s inner circle and a fixture in his home, serving as a conduit for countless communications with the gadol hador. Almost no one outside of Rav Chaim’s family is as familiar with the goings-on at 23 Rechov Rashbam as Reb Shai is. In honor of the release of his brand new volume, Inside ArtScroll welcomed Reb Shai, who had traveled in to the United States from Israel, to discuss his latest work and share fascinating firsthand stories and accounts about Rav Chaim. This interview is enthralling, captivating and uplifting. Enjoy! To purchase the new Rav Chaim Kanievsky on Tehillim, CLICK HERE.

ArtScroll’s Kleinman Edition Mishkan DVD was a groundbreaking computer program that brought the Mishkan and the Bigdei Kehunah to life. The Kleinman Edition Mishkan sefarim in Hebrew and English, with their high-resolution photorealistic images and clear, detailed explanations, have become the standard in homes, schools, and shuls throughout the world, used by gedolei Yisrael and children, laymen and talmidei chachamim. This Inside ArtScroll interview gives us a fascinating glimpse of how they were produced. Chananya Kramer of Kol-Rom Multimedia and ArtScroll’s Rabbi Avrohom Biderman join to give us the exciting behind-the-scenes story and share some interesting factoids. So join the trip as they take us from Brooklyn to New Orleans, Baltimore to the Ukraine, to create these amazing projects. This interview was conducted in time for the current parshiyos hashovua, which discuss the design and construction of the Mishkan and the Bigdei Kehunah. To purchase The Mishkan book, CLICK HERE.

On the eve of Auschwitz Liberation Day (January 27, 1945), this newest episode of Inside ArtScroll (Episode 2:3) features an interview with Rabbi Yosef C. Golding, author of the best-selling Holocaust chronicle, Faith Amid the Flames: The story of Reb Yosef Friedenson and the Kiddush Hashem he witnessed and created. In this episode, host Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger speaks to Rabbi Golding about his late father-in-law and the world-wide reaction to this book, as well as the lessons he gained from his decades at Agudath Israel of America, as Executive Director of RCCS, and as COO of the Siyum Hashas. This is an important conversation for now, and for all generations to come. To purchase Faith Amid the Flames, CLICK HERE.

The newest episode of Inside ArtScroll features an interview with Rav Yaakov Bender, rosh yeshivah of Yeshivah Darchei Torah in Far Rockaway. Rav Bender has just released a new sefer, Rav Yaakov Bender on Chumash, exploring many of the Chumash’s timely and contemporary messages of strength, hope and chizuk. He begins with an insight on the parashah, and then shows us how the eternal and holy words of the Chumash are so relevant to us. Rav Bender believes in you. And in me. And in every Jew. He believes in our potential for greatness. In our capacity to face challenges with joy and courage. In our ability to change, to grow, to achieve. And he knows that all these things come from the spirit and power of the Torah and the beis medrash. In his new sefer, as he discusses in this enlightening interview, he gently helps us find our own strengths and reach ever higher. And he tells stories. So many stories! Rav Bender shares personal memories of his illustrious family. He brings us rare and often unknown stories about the gedolim we know and revere. We know Rav Bender as a gifted mechanech, a distinguished talmid chacham, a visionary rosh yeshivah, a man completely devoted to his talmidim. We admire his warmth, his passion, and the love he has for Klal Yisrael. Experience all this – and more! – in this interview, and in the new sefer, which can be purchased HERE.