Sarah Rakhamimov

I come from a Kavkazi (Mountain Jew) background.  The Kavkazis arrived in Pesia after the destruction of the First Temple, later migrating to Azerbaijan.  During the Soviet regime and suppression of religion, the Kavkazi Jewish community, including my family, embraced their Jewish identity by upholding their unique customs and honoring the mitzvot.

I grew up in a traditional Jewish home.  I attended secular public schools my entire life, but always sought a deeper connection to my Jewish identity.  My introduction to structured Jewish education started in college, where I had the opportunity to join the incredible Podcast Fellowship!

I learned about it from a friend; right away I was intrigued by the unique concept.

My experience with TPF has been highly interactive and intellectually stimulating  I have the pleasure of having Chava Zaretsky (of Exhibit J Staten Island) as my mentor for nearly three years.  Chava has filled my life with insight and wisdom!

We usually schedule our meetings for the same day and time every week; beforehand we discuss which topic I'd be interested in learning that week.  Chava is very open to discussing a wide range of subjects and somehow has insights into all of them.  We both prepare questions in advance.  We explored the Habits of Happiness series, and we delved into fundamental concepts of Jewish thought, including in-depth discussions of Chochmah, Binah and Da'at.  Chava introduced each concept in its own session, creating a continuous, layered understanding that builds over time.

Overall, I find TPF's learning model to be structured and at the same time, flexible.  It gives me an open, personalized mentorship experience.  It addresses essential questions and enriches my understanding.

There are so many: Mrs Jackie Engle Glaser, Mr. Charlie Harary, Rabbi Benzion Klatzko.  My favorite topic is Personal Growth & Development.

My Jewish journey is evolving.  I am continually seeking to expand and strengthen my Jewish observance

Me too!

😊 Specifically, I am making a mindful transition into observance of Shabbat, consistent prayer and Torah study.

Yes, both online and directly.

Learning helps.  Understanding Jewish history is a proactive way to respond.  Knowing the reality of antisemitism gives me the tools to build bridges and meaningful dialogue with those who are less educated.  Another advantage of learning is that when you're surrounded with negativity, it's therapeutic to engage with positive content that highlights the resilience and strength of the Jewish people.  I also turn to prayer as a source of strength and hope.

The Podcast Fellowship has shown me that Jewish wisdom is alive and relevant.  It has inspired me to bring what I learn into my daily life.  It has shaped my personal and spiritual growth--a transformative experience every Jewish student and young professional deserves!