Podcast
Inspired to Lead
Hosted by The JWE - Talia Mashiach · EN
JWE introduces "Inspired to Lead," a podcast brought to you by Roth&Co which focuses
on inspirational Jewish women in leadership, hosted by Talia Mashiach
Join us as we learn about extraordinary Jewish women who are making waves in business and beyond. Hosted by successful technology entrepreneur, Talia Mashiach, this podcast celebrates the stories, triumphs, and insights of remarkable Jewish women
leaders.
In each episode, Talia sits down with trailblazing women who have left a lasting impact on various industries, from founding non-profit organizations to spearheading multi-million-dollar enterprises with innovation and resilience. Through candid conversations, these inspiring leaders share their personal journeys, the challenges they've overcome,
and the strategies that have propelled them to success.
Whether you're a successful business leader, an aspiring entrepreneur seeking motivation, or simply someone who appreciates powerful stories of determination and achievement, "Inspired to Lead" offers a wealth of inspiration and wisdom.
Tune in to discover the untold stories behind the success of Jewish women leaders who are shaping the world today and paving the way for future generations.
Don't miss out on these empowering conversations – subscribe to "Inspired to Lead: Inspiring Jewish Women in Leadership" now and be inspired to unleash your own potential!
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29episodes
Episodes
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Jamie Geller: Living Beyond the Script
Feb 1201:34:34Tap to summarizeJoin host Talia Mashiach for an inspiring conversation with Jamie Geller, Chief Communications Officer and Global Spokesperson at Aish, as she shares her remarkable journey from Hollywood producer to cookbook author to nonprofit leader. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction - Jamie's recognition and impact across different communities [00:19] Early career dreams and the path to broadcast journalism at NYU [07:40] Landing at CNN through networking and becoming an intern manager [09:44] Graduating Phi Beta Kappa in 3 years while working almost full-time [10:00] The importance of work ethic, confidence vs. arrogance, and hiring for culture fit [15:16] Core values and the "I GROW" acronym at Aish [22:50] Discovering observant Judaism and the life-changing decision to keep Shabbat [24:21] Walking away from CNN and the "good luck finding another job" moment [31:26] Navigating Hollywood as a religious woman at HBO [37:00] The partnership model - balancing career and traditional home roles [43:50] Missing the bat mitzvah play for a White House meeting [46:40] Transitioning from HBO to the food industry and becoming "the bride who knew nothing" [52:30] Building a digital food empire - 2 million followers, billion views, and burnout [1:02:00] The evolution of social media and the pressure of constant authenticity [1:23:30] The COVID pivot and joining Aish with a vision for digital Jewish education [1:27:05] Growing Aish from 400K to 4 million followers and 2 million daily video views [1:29:20] Fast Five: Superpower, best advice, leadership style, and final wisdom Guest Description: Jamie Geller is a former HBO producer turned cookbook author and digital media pioneer who built a food empire with over 1 billion video views before joining Aish. She's the author of 8 cookbooks, including "Quick and Kosher: Recipes from the Bride Who Knew Nothing," and has grown Aish's social media presence from 400,000 to 4 million followers. Jamie lives in Jerusalem with her husband and six children. This episode is brought to you by Roth and Co., innovators in accounting and business advisory.
Transcribe →The Adina Eden Story: From Basement Startup to Forbes 30 Under 30
Jan 2900:47:57Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of Inspire to Lead, host Talia Mic sits down with Adina Kamkhatchi, founder of Adina Eden jewelry, for an intimate conversation about building a multimillion-dollar business from scratch, overcoming adversity, and staying true to your values. Adina shares her remarkable journey from being a bullied, overweight teenager with $100 in babysitting money to creating one of the most successful fine jewelry brands, now sold in Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, and Revolve. She opens up about her struggles with infertility, the sacrifices behind her success, and why she chose to publicly stand with Israel after October 7th—even at the risk of losing followers and customers. This is a story about resilience, faith, family business, and building a legacy that matters. [1:49] - The origin story: Why jewelry? Overcoming childhood struggles with weight and bullying [5:14] - First customer and starting on Instagram over a decade ago [8:08] - The Madison Beer moment: When a celebrity post changed everything overnight [11:06] - Scaling from handmade to factories: The challenges of rapid growth [15:01] - Moving out of the parents' basement: Getting their first office with no credit history [18:10] - Forbes 30 Under 30: Proving the doubters wrong [21:50] - The voice that pushes through: Overcoming being the underdog [24:26] - October 7th: Standing with Israel and the business decision to speak up publicly [30:30] - Lessons learned: Quality hires over quantity, and trusting God's timing [34:38] - Rock bottom: Three miscarriages and finding the strength to continue [39:50] - COVID-19: The moment they thought it was over—and how it became a milestone [40:02] - Sacrifices no one saw: Years of 2 AM bedtimes and reinvesting every penny [41:02] - Advice to her younger self: "You're loved, and you're gonna make it" [42:04] - Superpower: Staying calm in chaos and always finding solutions [42:53] - Final advice: Start with nothing—you don't need money to begin About the Guest: Adina Kamkhatchi is the founder of Adina Eden, a fashion-forward fine jewelry brand she started at just 18 years old. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Adina built her business from nothing—starting by hand-making jewelry in her parents' basement and leveraging Instagram before it became a business platform. Today, Adina Eden is a multimillion-dollar company known for its dainty, personalized pieces and unwavering support for Israel. A first-generation college graduate from the Syrian-American community in Brooklyn, Adina is also a proud mother of twins and an advocate for infertility awareness. Sponsored by: Roth and Co., innovators in accounting and business advisory
Transcribe →Lizzy Savetsky: From Fashion Influencer to Jewish Activist
Jan 1501:10:25Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode, Lizzy Savetsky shares her remarkable journey from fashion influencer to one of the most prominent Jewish activists on social media. Lizzy opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her path—from growing up in Fort Worth, Texas with dreams of being a singer, to building a successful fashion blogging career, to making the courageous decision to pivot to full-time Jewish advocacy in 2021. She discusses the personal and professional sacrifices she made, including being dropped by her management company, receiving death threats, and hitting rock bottom with alcoholism before finding sobriety. Lizzy's story is one of authenticity, resilience, and the power of living your truth out loud, even when it costs you everything. [1:22] Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas and early performing dreams [5:40] Meeting her husband and the journey to Orthodox Judaism [9:37] The decision to study in Israel at Neve Seminary [20:00] Breaking into fashion PR and starting her blog [27:50] Discovering Instagram and building a following [39:20] The turning point: May 2021 and pivoting to Jewish advocacy [53:00] Getting dropped by management and facing death threats [59:00] The importance of authenticity vs. performing your life [62:30] Hitting rock bottom with alcoholism and finding sobriety [66:45] Rumors of "Lizzy for Mayor" and potential political future [70:15] Fast Five: Biggest mistakes, sacrifices, and superpowers [70:00] Final message: Invest in yourself and find your purpose Guest Description Lizzy Savetsky is a Jewish activist, digital advocate, and social media influencer known for her unapologetic defense of Israel and the Jewish people. With a background in fashion PR and blogging, Lizzy made headlines when she pivoted from fashion content to full-time advocacy work in 2021, following attacks on Israel. Despite facing death threats and losing lucrative brand partnerships, she has built a powerful platform speaking at rallies, delivering speeches nationwide, and mobilizing the Jewish community online. A mother of four and wife to a plastic surgeon Ira Savetsky. Sponsor This episode is sponsored by Roth & Co innovators in accounting and business advisory. To learn more visit https://rothcocpa.com/
Transcribe →Purpose, Passion, and PR: Chayale Kaufman's Winning Formula
Jan 101:11:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Inspire to Lead, host Talia Mashiach sits down with Chayale Kaufman, founder of the Jewish Content Network and Consult Write Media. Chayale shares her remarkable journey from her early days in print media to becoming a trailblazer in digital marketing and nonprofit strategy. Discover how she built two thriving companies, the sacrifices and grit required for true success, and the unique challenges and triumphs of women in leadership. 01:30 – Chayale's Early Career and Founding Her Companies 06:00 – What Makes Consult Right Media Unique 10:00 – The Power of Personal Branding 14:00 – Marketing Strategies for Businesses and Nonprofits 20:00 – Lessons from 15 Years in Print and Digital Media 25:00 – The Role of Grit and Sacrifice in Success 30:00 – Women, Leadership, and the Value of Mentorship 36:00 – Navigating Partnerships and Financial Confidence 42:00 – The Impact of AI on Marketing 48:00 – Balancing Family, Business, and Personal Growth 54:00 – Overcoming Guilt and Embracing Support 1:00:00 – Chayale's Superpower: Tenacity and Moving Forward 1:05:00 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 1:10:00 – Final Reflections and Takeaways Guest Description: Chayale Kaufman is the founder and CEO of the Jewish Content Network and Consult Write Media, two innovative agencies specializing in digital and print marketing, PR, and strategic communications for businesses and nonprofits. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Chayale is recognized for her expertise in campaign strategy, branding, and her deep commitment to helping organizations amplify their impact. She is a passionate leader, mentor, and advocate for women in business, known for her authenticity, creativity, and relentless drive to make a difference in the Jewish community and beyond.
Transcribe →Building a Billion-Dollar Brand: The Melissa & Doug Story
Dec 1801:35:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Melissa Bernstein shares her remarkable journey from a creative, "unsettled" child to the co-founder of Melissa & Doug. She opens up about channeling her internal chaos into creativity, the early struggles and scrappy beginnings of the company, and the mission-driven philosophy that guided their growth. Melissa discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of resilience, and the lessons learned from both setbacks and successes from building a business from her basement to selling the company for over a billion dollars. She also talks about balancing business and family, working with her husband, and her new venture, Lifelines, which focuses on well-being and helping others find meaning. Melissa's story is a testament to the power of creativity, grit, and staying true to one's mission. Timestamps 03:45 – Channeling chaos into creativity: the start of Melissa & Doug 08:30 – Melissa's upbringing and search for meaning 13:00 – Quitting corporate jobs and the fateful weekend 16:30 – Early mission and building a company from scratch 22:00 – First product, "fuzzy puzzle," and manufacturing challenges 27:00 – Getting burned by a factory agent 32:00 – Serendipity, resilience, and finding the right factory 36:00 – Building the business from their home 41:00 – Balancing family, business, and self-funding 48:00 – Sales, rejection, and learning to overcome objections 55:00 – Expanding categories: puzzles, wooden toys, plush, costumes 1:05:00 – Entering mass market and the Amazon story 1:15:00 – Taking on investors and the eventual sale 1:25:00 – Leaving the company, starting Lifelines, and finding new meaning 1:33:00 – Advice for entrepreneurs, women, and parents 1:38:00 – Melissa's book and mentoring the next generation 1:45:00 – Final thoughts: creativity, meaning, and living authentically Guest Description Melissa Bernstein is the co-founder of Melissa & Doug, one of the world's leading toy companies, and a passionate entrepreneur, creator, and advocate for mental health and authentic living. Over 35 years, Melissa and her husband Doug built their company from scratch, focusing on sparking children's imaginations with high-quality, open-ended toys. After selling the company for over a billion dollars, Melissa launched Lifelines, a new venture dedicated to well-being tools for adults, and authored the book "The Heart of Entrepreneurship." Her journey is marked by creativity, resilience, and a mission-driven approach to business and life.
Transcribe →Finding Your Voice: The Journey Beyond the Spotlight with Shaindy Plotzker
Dec 401:15:52Tap to summarizeIn this inspiring episode of "Inspire to Lead," host Talia Mashiach sits down with singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Shaindy Plotzker. Together, they explore Shaindy's journey of becoming a trailblazer in the Orthodox Jewish music scene. Shaindy shares candid insights about building her business, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of authenticity, leadership, and self-worth. This conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to pursue their passion, break barriers, and lead with purpose. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & opening thoughts 01:07 – Meet Shaindy Plotzker: background and early influences 04:20 – Breaking barriers: music, business, and Orthodox Jewish identity 07:00 – Building a team and running a production company 12:43 – Growing up, family, and the power of music 17:39 – Overcoming obstacles and finding your unique voice 24:04 – Leadership, authenticity, and advice for young women 35:58 – The pivotal moments that changed everything 42:04 – Quick-fire questions and closing thoughts Guest Description: Shaindy Plotzker is a dynamic singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur known for her soulful voice and energetic performances. As a leading figure in the Orthodox Jewish music world, Shaindy has inspired thousands with her message of self-acceptance, faith, and empowerment. Beyond the stage, she runs her own production company, mentors young talent, and is passionate about using her platform to uplift others. Shaindy's journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and following your calling.
Transcribe →Redefining Success: From Loss to Leadership With Dr. Aimee Baron
Nov 2001:04:23Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Inspire to Lead, host Talia Mashiach sits down with Dr. Aimee Baron, founder and executive director of I Was Supposed to Have a Baby, for a deeply moving conversation about resilience, purpose, and building a nonprofit from personal experience. Aimee shares her journey from a lifelong dream of pediatrics, through the heartbreak of multiple second-trimester miscarriages, to finding new meaning by supporting others facing fertility challenges in the Jewish community. The discussion explores the realities of career pivots, the emotional toll of loss, and the power of vulnerability in leadership. Aimee opens up about the challenges of leaving medicine, the process of founding a nonprofit, and the importance of community, support, and being open to life's unexpected turns. 03:15 – Aimee 's Early Passion for Pediatrics and Medicine 06:45 – The Reality of Medical Training and Family Life 10:00 – Facing Repeated Loss and Leaving Medicine 18:00 – Speaking Out: Breaking the Silence on Fertility Challenges 22:00 – Volunteering and the Birth of a Nonprofit 28:00 – Building "I Was Supposed to Have a Baby" from the Ground Up 35:00 – Fundraising, Hiring, and Growing a Team 41:00 – Redefining Success: Support Over Outcomes 46:00 – Advice on Difficult Decisions and Listening to Your Gut 52:00 – The Power of Community and Giving Back 58:00 – Aimee 's Superpower and Final Reflections About Our Guest: Dr. Aimee Baron is a pediatrician, nonprofit founder, and advocate for those facing fertility challenges. After a successful medical career, Aimee 's personal experiences with loss inspired her to create I Was Supposed to Have a Baby, a platform dedicated to providing emotional support and resources to the Jewish community. Known for her empathy, candor, and commitment to making a difference, Aimee 's work has touched thousands and continues to foster connection,community, and hope.
Transcribe →From Passion to Practice: Beth Warren on Nutrition, Family, and Embracing Change
Nov 601:15:47Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Inspire to Lead, host Talia Mashiach sits down with Beth Warren, CEO and founder of Nourished by Beth, to explore the journey of turning a love for food and helping others into a thriving nutrition practice. Beth shares her story of starting out in marketing, landing a coveted internship at American Express, and ultimately pivoting to nutrition—navigating the challenges of building a business from her Brooklyn home while raising a family. The conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship: from the decision to accept insurance, scaling to multiple offices, and the importance of networking and self-advocacy, to the sacrifices and resilience required to balance motherhood, business growth, and personal well-being. Beth opens up about the lessons learned through divorce, the power of having your own career, and the evolution of her practice to focus on emotional well-being and authentic connection. 03:15 – Discovering Nutrition: From Marketing to Food 07:00 – Landing the American Express Internship 10:00 – The Power of Networking & Self-Advocacy 15:00 – Starting a Private Practice While Raising a Family 20:00 – Accepting Insurance & Scaling the Business 25:00 – Building a Team: Assistants, Billers, and Dietitians 30:00 – Work-Life Balance: Juggling Family and Growth 35:00 – Navigating Financial Pressures & Business Pivots 40:00 – Resilience Through Divorce & Reinventing the Practice 45:00 – Focusing on Emotional Well-Being & Authenticity 50:00 – Writing Books & Building a Personal Brand 55:00 – Advice, Mindset, and Final Reflections About Our Guest: Beth Warren is a registered dietitian, entrepreneur, and author, known for her practical approach to nutrition and her commitment to helping others achieve lasting well-being. As the founder of Nourish by Beth, she has built a reputation for expertise, empathy, and innovation in the field of nutrition and wellness. Beth's journey is marked by resilience, adaptability, and a passion for empowering others to live their healthiest, most authentic lives.
Transcribe →Rainmaking in Israel: Ziva Glanz on Navigating Bureaucracy and Building Legacy
Oct 2301:05:39Tap to summarizeIn this inspiring episode of Inspired to Lead, host Talia sits down with Ziva Glanz, a pioneering "rainmaker" who has carved a unique path in Israel's infrastructure and investment landscape. Ziva shares her journey from New Jersey to Jerusalem, the challenges and triumphs of being a religious female leader in a male-dominated field, and her mission to build not just projects, but communities and legacies. The conversation delves into navigating Israeli bureaucracy, the importance of women's leadership, balancing family and career, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. Ziva's story is a testament to the impact of purpose-driven leadership and the importance of contributing your unique skills to the greater good. 05:00 – Becoming a Rainmaker: Bridging Investors and Bureaucracy 10:00 – The Disney Park Story & Missing Opportunities 15:00 – Navigating Bureaucracy: Skills & Strategies 20:00 – Building Trust & Respect as a Female Leader 30:00 – Ziva's Personal Journey: Family, Education, and Career Pivots 40:00 – The Power of Community and Mentorship 50:00 – Balancing Family, Career, and Self-Care 1:00:00 – Turning Tragedy into Purpose: Advocacy and Social Impact 1:10:00 – The Office of the Geula: Vision for the Future 1:20:00 – Advice for Aspiring Leaders & Final Reflections About Our Guest: Ziva Glanz is an international project manager and "rainmaker" specializing in connecting global investors with Israeli infrastructure opportunities. With a background in urban planning, nonprofit leadership, and government relations, Ziva has become a trusted advisor for complex, high-impact projects. She is known for her ability to navigate bureaucracy, build consensus, and deliver results in challenging environments. A passionate advocate for women's leadership and community building, Ziva draws on her personal experiences as a mother, a bereaved parent, and a leader to inspire others to contribute their unique talents to the world. Her work is driven by a deep sense of purpose, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact on Israeli society and beyond. Powered By Roth & Co. For guest suggestions, please email Talia: podcast@thejwe.org
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From Recession to Partner; A Journey of Advocacy & Leadership - with Rachel Stein
Jan 30, 202500:37:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode Talia Mashiach welcomes Rachel Stein, head of tax at Roth & Co. Rachel shares her inspiring journey from starting as an accountant to becoming the first female partner at Roth & Co. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, balancing a demanding career with raising three children, and developing leadership skills through coaching. Rachel also discusses the challenges and dynamics of working in a male-dominated firm and provides valuable advice on career advancement and effective leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Inspire to Lead Podcast 00:27 Meet Rachel Stein: Journey to Partnership 01:08 Balancing Career and Family 02:37 Rachel's Role at Roth & Co 05:37 Advocating for Career Advancement 14:17 Growing Up and Early Influences 16:57 Career Beginnings and Challenges 19:26 Personal Life and Support System 19:46 Career Beginnings and Current Role 20:21 Balancing Work and Family Life 20:53 Work Hours and Flexibility Post-COVID 22:18 Support System and Managing Responsibilities 23:48 Family Time and Shabbos Preparation 26:24 Vacations and Work-Life Balance 28:17 Mentorship and Leadership 30:40 Superpowers and Career Reflections 34:27 Final Thoughts and Advice About Rachel Stein: Since joining Roth&Co in 2010, Rachel Stein, CPA has worked her way up to partner as she now leads Roth&Co’s tax compliance division. Rachel serves clients in multiple industries including healthcare and real estate, and supervises a skilled team of CPAs that assist clients with entity structuring, reporting obligations and compliance needs. Rachel specializes in U.S. and foreign tax compliance matters and provides support to a large client base of foreign investors. She works to optimize the structure of her clients’ foreign and U.S. cross-border activities to ensure maximum tax efficiency and seamless compliance. Her client roster includes many international businesses and individuals, including those from Europe, Canada, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Rachel is a 2007 graduate of Brooklyn College where she earned her B.S., with honors, in accounting. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of CPAs (NYSSCPA). https://rothcocpa.com Powered By Roth & Co The JWE For guest suggestions, please email Talia: podcast@thejwe.org
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