Explore every episode of the podcast Kosher Today

Host Menachem interviews Gidon Katz, discussing the international kosher food industry and Israeli real estate.

## Guest Profile
**Gidon Katz** - Representative of IMP (International Marketing and Promotions), a family business founded in the 1980s.

## Key Discussion Points

### IMP and International Food Export
- Background on IMP (International Marketing and Promotions), founded by Katz's parents in the 1980s
- Focus on connecting Israeli-based clients with Jewish communities worldwide, particularly in US and Canada
- Specialized expertise in food industry exports
- Comparison of food export challenges versus other commodities

### Market Analysis and Operations
- Exploration of opportunities for Israeli products in global markets
- IMP's operational processes and business model
- Analysis of Charedi market dynamics in Israel and internationally
- Detailed comparison of kashrut systems in Israel versus America, including advantages and challenges

### Cultural and Educational Aspects
- Discussion of food culture differences between Israel and America
- Educational processes required for introducing Israeli products to American markets

### Current Market Conditions
- Impact of the ongoing war on Israeli food exports
- Growth trends in the Israeli food industry
- Current state of Israeli tourism market

### Real Estate Focus
- Gidon's involvement in real estate sales to American Jewish buyers
- Current trends in American Jewish investment in Israeli real estate
- Analysis of increasing property purchase trends

Would you like me to expand on any of these sections or adjust the format in any way?
For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of kosher fast-casual dining with Benjamin Haimoff, the innovative entrepreneur behind Smash House Burger. From his beginnings in dairy restaurants to pioneering a new concept in kosher fast food, Benjamin shares his fascinating journey and insights into the evolving kosher restaurant industry.

## Episode Highlights

### The Smash Burger Revolution
Benjamin explains the unique technique behind smash burgers - a method that creates a perfectly caramelized crust while maintaining a juicy interior. He breaks down what makes a true smash burger different from traditional burger preparations and why this cooking style has gained such popularity.

### Building a Kosher Franchise
We explore the intricacies of developing a kosher franchise model, including:
- The unique challenges and opportunities in the kosher market
- Standardizing operations while maintaining strict kosher standards
- Training staff across different locations
- Managing supply chains for kosher ingredients

### From Dairy to Meat: An Entrepreneur's Journey
Benjamin shares his compelling transition from operating dairy restaurants to launching a meat-focused franchise, including:
- Lessons learned from his chalavi restaurant experience
- The decision to enter the burger market
- Adapting business strategies for different cuisine types

### Marketing Across Communities
The episode delves into the sophisticated marketing approach required for different locations, addressing:
- Tailoring messaging for various Jewish communities
- Engaging with local customs and preferences
- Building brand recognition across diverse markets
- Creating inclusive marketing that appeals to both kosher and non-kosher consumers

### Customer Education and Experience
Benjamin discusses the importance of educating customers about the smash burger concept, including:
- The unique cooking process
- Why timing and technique matter
- Training staff to explain the concept to new customers
- Creating an engaging dining experience

### The Smash House Burger Experience
The conversation concludes with insights into what makes dining at Smash House Burger special:
- The importance of fresh, quality ingredients
- Quick service without compromising on taste
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Value proposition for kosher consumers

Stay tuned for next week's episode of Kosher Today, where we'll explore another fascinating aspect of the kosher food industry.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In this episode of Kosher Today, Menachem sits down with the inspiring Tanya Rosen, the powerhouse behind Nutrition By Tanya. Tanya shares her incredible journey—from aspiring lawyer to becoming a leading expert in nutrition, with centers helping thousands achieve their health and weight loss goals.

Together, they dive into:

• Tanya's personal story and what drove her to pivot from law to nutrition.
• The rise of health and wellness trends in the Jewish world.
• Misconceptions about weight loss and Tanya's no-nonsense approach to sustainable change.
• Practical tips for navigating a healthier lifestyle while staying connected to Jewish traditions.

Whether you're looking for motivation to kickstart your health journey or want to understand the latest nutrition trends, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration!

Tune in now and learn how Tanya’s approach can work for you.


For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

Rabbi Sholem Fishbane is a prominent figure in the kosher certification world, serving as the Director of Kashrus for the Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) and the Executive Director of the Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO). With an impressive educational background from Telshe Yeshiva in Chicago and Yeshivas Mir in Jerusalem, Rabbi Fishbane brings extensive knowledge and experience to the discussion.


#### The Origin of AKO
- Explore the fascinating story behind the founding of the Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO)
- Insights into how this umbrella group of major kosher-certifying agencies came to be

#### AKO's Mission and Work
- Detailed overview of the organization's crucial role in kosher certification
- How AKO supports and coordinates between different kosher certifying agencies

#### Developments in the Kosher World
- A deep dive into the remarkable advancements in kosher certification
- The evolution of kosher standards and practices over the years

#### Mashgiach Professionals
- Discussion on the highly qualified kosher supervisors (mashgichim) entering the field
- The rigorous training and expertise required in modern kosher certification

#### Technology and Kosher Certification
- Exploration of technology's impact on kosher supervision
- Practical applications of artificial intelligence in kosher certification
- How technological innovations are transforming kosher oversight

#### Challenges in the Kosher World
- Insights into the current challenges facing kosher certification
- Strategies for addressing complex kosher compliance issues

#### Personal Journey
- Rabbi Fishbane shares his personal motivations for entering the kosher certification field
- Personal experiences and insights from his career

#### Practical Kosher Dining Advice
- Kosher considerations when purchasing coffee from different chains (Starbucks vs. Dunkin')
- Important guidance for dining out while maintaining kosher standards

### Memorable Quotes
(Specific quotes from the episode to be added after recording)

### Recommended Resources
- Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) website
- Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO) resources

### Connect with the Guest
- Learn more about Rabbi Sholem Fishbane's work
- Follow AKO and cRc for latest kosher certification updates


For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In today's episode, Menachem sits down with Kevin O'Brien, a pioneering figure in the kosher food industry. While not Jewish himself, O'Brien is widely recognized for establishing Glatt Kosher operations in Monsey, New York, and has become a respected authority on kosher food in the supermarket business.

Key Discussion Points:

• O'Brien's journey into the food and supermarket industry
• His fascinating entry into the kosher market and self-education process
• Insightful comparison between today's supermarket managers and those from his era
• His unique perspective on non-Jewish consumers specifically seeking kosher products and the growing crossover market

Join us for this engaging conversation with one of the most influential figures in making kosher food accessible in American supermarkets.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

Join Menachem Lubinsky as he sits down with Raphi Bloom, the visionary behind TotallyJewishTravel.com, the internet's largest kosher travel website. This insightful discussion explores the evolving landscape of kosher travel in today's complex world.

- **TotallyJewishTravel.com Spotlight**
  - Unique features and offerings of the platform
  - What sets the website apart in the kosher travel space
  - Tools and resources available for Jewish travelers

- **Post-COVID Travel Landscape**
  - How the pandemic reshaped kosher travel patterns
  - Recovery and adaptation of the industry
  - New safety protocols and considerations

- **Impact of October 7th and Current Events**
  - Changes in Jewish travel patterns since October 7th
  - Security considerations for Jewish travelers
  - How the industry is adapting to new safety concerns

- **Pesach 2025 Season**
  - Current outlook amidst regional tensions
  - How the Hezbollah conflict is affecting planning
  - Adaptation strategies for tour operators and hotels

- **Economic Factors**
  - Impact of inflation on vacation choices
  - Changes in booking patterns and preferences
  - How travelers are adjusting their budgets

- **Emerging Travel Trends**
  - New popular destinations for kosher travelers
  - Up-and-coming locations gaining attention
  - Why these destinations are attracting Jewish tourists

- **Kashrus Logistics**
  - Challenges of securing reliable mashgichim in exotic locations
  - Solutions and innovations in kosher supervision
  - How operators maintain high kashrus standards worldwide

Rapi Bloom is the founder of TotallyJewishTravel.com, the premier online resource for kosher travel worldwide. His platform has revolutionized how Jewish travelers plan their vacations by providing comprehensive information about kosher-friendly destinations, accommodations, and services.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Avrohom Marmorstein, whose diverse experience includes serving as the head of Kosher certification for the Fairway supermarket chain, leading a synagogue congregation, and conducting extensive research into Kosher history.

Topics discussed:

• How Kosher supervision (hashgacha) serves as a bridge for Jewish outreach (kiruv)
• The fascinating tale of a Kosher-certified Rastafarian restaurant
• An inside look at a unique Yiddish farm producing organic hand-made shmura matzah
• Rabbi Marmorstein's research into Jewish life and Kosher observance in early 1900s New York
• The evolution and development of organized Kashrut supervision in America
• His experiences as the supervising rabbi (Rav Hamachshir) for the Fairway supermarket chain

Join us for these engaging stories at the intersection of Kosher supervision, Jewish history, and community outreach.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In this week's episode, Menachem Lubinsky sits down with Chaim Oberlander, the founder of KJ Poultry, to explore the fascinating world of kosher poultry production. 

**Topics Covered:**

1. The history and development of KJ Poultry's unique kosher chicken and turkey plant
2. How KJ Poultry became the world's largest kosher chicken processing facility
3. The distinctive aspects of KJ Glatt's shechita (kosher slaughter) process
4. Chesed (charitable) programs associated with KJ Poultry
5. Chaim Oberlander's commitment to maintaining high standards in:
   - Equipment and technology
   - Working conditions for employees
   - Standards for mashgichim (kosher supervisors)

Join us for an insightful discussion on the intersection of traditional kosher practices and modern poultry production.

In this episode of Kosher Today, host Menachem sits down with the founder of Fleishig Magazine, the leading kosher lifestyle publication, to discuss the magazine's journey and various aspects of the kosher food scene.

Episode Highlights:

1. The Birth of Fleishig Magazine
   • Explore the origins and initial concept behind Fleishig Magazine
   • Insights into the magazine's early days and development
2. Digital Transformation
   • Discussion on how Fleishig Magazine adapted to the digital age
   • The impact of going digital on readership and content delivery
3. Mission and Vision
   • The core mission driving Fleishig Magazine
   • How the magazine aims to serve the kosher community
4. Fleishig's Unique Approach
   • What sets Fleishig Magazine apart in the kosher publication landscape
   • Special features or content that readers can't find elsewhere
5. Kosher Palooza Food Festival
   • Details about this exciting kosher food event
   • Fleishig Magazine's involvement and perspective on the festival
6. Evolving Kosher Restaurant Scene
   • Analysis of the growing kosher dining options in New York
   • Trends and developments in kosher restaurants across other states
7. Yamim Tovim Preparation Tips
   • Shlomo's expert advice on preparing for Jewish holidays
   • Practical suggestions for menu planning and entertaining
8. Culinary Fusion: Cholent and Sushi
   • Discussion on the trend of combining traditional and modern kosher cuisines
   • Does this fusion work? Insights and opinions

About the Show

Kosher Today is your go-to podcast for all things related to kosher trends in the United States and the latest kosher news. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of kosher cuisine, lifestyle, and culture.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

In this episode, Menachem sits down with Susie Fishbein, the renowned kosher cookbook author. They discuss:

1. Susie's journey: From her first book to becoming a bestselling cookbook author, including her career change.
2. The evolution of kosher cookbooks in the culinary world.
3. Balancing dining out and home cooking in Jewish culture.
4. How the Jewish calendar transforms mothers into professional chefs out of necessity.
5. Susie's approach to staying creative and innovative in her ongoing writing process.
6. Her secrets for early preparation for upcoming Jewish holidays (Yom Tov).
7. Whether kosher supermarkets adequately stock ingredients for the level of cooking Susie envisions.

This episode offers valuable insights into kosher cooking, Jewish culinary traditions, and the art of cookbook writing from one of the field's most respected voices.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

Join Menachem as he sits down with restaurant expert Elan Kornblum to discuss a variety of topics, including:

• The history and development of his food magazine
• Current restaurant market trends
• The impact of COVID-19 on kosher restaurants compared to non-kosher establishments
• The expanding kosher restaurant business across the country

In this enlightening episode of Kosher Today, listeners will gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of kosher dining. Elan Kornblum, a respected figure in the industry, shares his expertise on the evolving landscape of kosher restaurants, from local establishments to nationwide trends. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a business owner, or simply curious about the kosher industry, this episode offers a compelling look at the past, present, and future of kosher cuisine in America.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

The Surging Kosher Wine Industry

Guests:
- Nathan Herzog
- Jay Buchsbaum

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Development of Israel as a Major Wine Producer
   - Israel's rise as a prominent player in the global wine industry
   - Factors contributing to the growth and success of the Israeli wine sector

2. The Uniqueness and Popularity of Herzog Grape Juice
   - The story behind the Herzog brand and its grape juice products
   - What sets Herzog grape juice apart in the kosher beverage market

3. The Evolution of the Herzog Wine Business
   - The history and expansion of the Herzog winemaking operation
   - How the Herzog family business has adapted and grown over the years

4. The Impact of War on the Israeli Wine Industry
   - Challenges faced by Israeli wineries during times of conflict and instability
   - Strategies employed to maintain and expand the industry during challenging periods

5. Mevushal vs. Non-Mevushal Wine: Understanding the Differences
   - Explanation of the mevushal (cooked) and non-mevushal (non-cooked) wine categories
   - Exploring the implications and perceptions surrounding these wine styles

This episode of "Kosher Today" provides a comprehensive look at the dynamic wine industry, featuring insights from the esteemed Herzog wine dynasty. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that have contributed to Israel's rise as a major wine-producing region, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities faced by kosher wineries in the country.

In this episode, we explore the evolution of kosher stores into modern supermarkets with our guest Mayer Gold. Mayer shares his journey in the kosher food industry and provides insights into the development of large-scale kosher supermarkets.

Key Topics:
1. The history and evolution of kosher stores
2. The transition from small shops to large kosher supermarkets
3. Mayer Gold's career path in the kosher food industry
4. Mayer's previous ventures in various supermarkets
5. His current role and responsibilities at Seasons

About Our Guest:
Mayer Gold is the Vice President of Operations at Seasons, a prominent kosher supermarket chain. Based in Flushing, New York, Mayer brings a wealth of experience from his previous ventures in the supermarket industry.


For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Kosher Today podcast! Host Menchem kicks off the series with a special guest, Rabbi Moshe Elefant, the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Rabbinic Coordinator of OU Kosher.

In this enlightening conversation, Menchem and Rabbi Elefant delve into:

• The intricacies of OU's kosher certification process
• Fascinating insights into the world of mashgichim (kosher supervisors)
• Behind-the-scenes look at OU Kosher operations
• Answers to compelling questions about modern kosher supervision

Join us for an exclusive peek into the complex and vital world of kosher certification with one of the industry's leading authorities.

For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting

Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com

This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com 

The Kosher Today Podcast is hosted by Menachem Lubinsky, a pioneer who has shaped the kosher landscape for over three decades, this bi-weekly show launches on July 14th. Each episode will deliver breaking news, explore global kosher trends, and feature interviews with industry leaders. Lubinsky, known for founding Kosherfest and editing the Kosher Today newsletter, brings his unparalleled expertise to the airwaves. Whether you're a food industry professional or a kosher enthusiast, this podcast offers invaluable insights into the rapidly evolving world of kosher food. From mega supermarkets to innovative products, Lubinsky will guide listeners through the exciting developments in the industry. Make sure to press the follow button so you don't miss any of the upcoming shows!