When Life Takes a Turn: The Inspiring Story of Tania & Amit Friedlander | Stories of Hope Podcast

In this deeply moving episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Tania and Amit Friedlander—a couple whose journey has been marked by remarkable resilience, courage, and unwavering faith.

Tania shares her powerful roots, growing up in Austria as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor who escaped on the last train out of Lviv at just 16 years old. Her childhood was shaped by both cultural richness and painful antisemitism, yet she found healing and strength in unexpected places—from table tennis competitions to her eventual path toward a life of Torah.

Amit, raised in New York, opens up about his own path to spiritual growth, his cancer diagnosis linked to 9/11, and ultimately, a shocking diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson’s disease just seven years into their marriage—with three small children and a fourth on the way.

Together, Tania and Amit walk us through their emotional, spiritual, and physical battles—and the decisions they made to keep joy at the center of their lives. From dancing in their living room to creating a home minyan, this couple is redefining what it means to live with purpose and faith in the face of adversity.

This is not just a story about illness—it’s a story about choosing life, over and over again.

To get in touch you can email:

Tania.friedlander@gmail.com

Amit.Friedlander@gmail.com

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

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What happens when two people defy the expectations of age, tradition, and dating norms — and find each other anyway?

In this deeply honest and moving episode, Natalie and Jake Reyhanian share their journey of navigating the pressure-filled world of dating in Jewish communities. From awkward setups to unspoken stigmas, from age gaps to the power of meeting organically — they open up about the real challenges, personal growth, and the surprising way they finally connected.

This conversation goes far beyond just a love story — it’s about breaking down societal judgments, embracing differences, and finding strength in vulnerability. Whether you're dating, married, or supporting others on their journey, this episode is filled with wisdom, hope, and heart.

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

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🎙 Stories of Hope with Tzipora Grodko | Ep. 45: From Hollywood to the Kotel — A Miracle Story of Faith, Love & New Life

In this episode, Tzipora Grodko sits with Chaya Sara and Yosef Behar — a couple whose story feels like a movie script, only it’s real, raw, and Divinely orchestrated.

🌟 Chaya Sara once felt lost, disconnected from Judaism and unsure if marriage — let alone motherhood — would ever happen. After her divorce at 34, she began a self-love and healing journey marked by faith, affirmations, and deep spiritual work. At 41, she met Yosef in the streets of the Old City in a twist of fate that only Hashem could arrange.

🎬 Yosef, a former Emmy Board member and Hollywood producer, left behind glitz, red carpets, and material success when he realized it left him spiritually empty. Trading L.A. for Yerushalayim, he devoted himself to Torah and purpose — and found his soulmate when he least expected it.

👶 But the miracles didn’t stop there. Chaya Sara was told she had “no eggs”. Miraculously Chaya Sara became pregnant naturally after 40 days of tefillah at the Kotel. Their baby, Netanel Simcha, was born against all odds - but not without a terrifying emergency delivery, a life-threatening hemorrhage, and a second surgery that nearly claimed her life. Chaya Sara survived thanks to 17 blood transfusions, endless tefillos, and a commitment to say Mizmor L’Todah with heartfelt thanks — even in the darkest hours.

🕯 "You’re not alone. Even in the pain, even when it’s dark, Hashem is with you. And your story isn't over." — Yosef Behar

You can contact Chaya Sara and Yosef Behar via email at: Csrishappy31@gmail.com

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

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From Divorce to Divine Connection: Rabbi & Rebbetzin Hecht’s Story

In this powerful and inspiring interview, Rabbi Mordechai & Rebbetzin Gitty Hecht share their remarkable journey of finding healing, connection and love after divorce. Discover how they navigated past challenges, overcame societal expectations, and found their soul through trust, faith, and authentic communication.

- Gitty’s journey of self-discovery after divorce
- Rabbi Hecht’s unique approach to marriage counseling
- How they met and recognized their deep soul connection
- Overcoming reservations about dating with children
- The importance of emotional safety and asking the right questions

This episode is perfect for anyone seeking hope in relationships, looking to understand marriage dynamics, or needing inspiration during challenging life transitions.

You can reach out to Gitty and R’ Hecht via email: rebbetzingittyhecht@gmail.com or rabbimzhecht@gmail.com or find them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gittyhecht
https://www.instagram.com/mordechaihecht/

Link to the Purple Book mentioned in the podcast: https://stan.store/MordechaiHecht

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

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Editor: Sruly Saftlas

A Story of Unbreakable Faith: How One Man Overcame Tragedy and Found Hope

In this deeply moving interview, Ephraim Rimel shares his extraordinary journey of resilience after losing his wife Tzipi and infant daughter Noam in a devastating car accident. Paralyzed from the waist down and facing immense personal loss, Ephraim reveals how faith, purpose, and an unwavering belief in God's plan helped him rebuild his life.

Watch as he candidly discusses:

• Navigating grief after losing his spouse and child
• Raising children through unimaginable tragedy
• Finding love again and creating a blended family
• The power of maintaining hope in life's darkest moments

Ephraim Rimel got married to Ayelet Kolman, the widow of Adiel Kolman, who was murdered in a terror attack in Jerusalem's Old City in 2018.

A testament to human strength and spiritual resilience, this interview offers profound insights into healing, meaning, and moving forward after loss.

You can reach out to Ephraim and Ayelet via email here: ezmrimel@gmail.com

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

► PZ Deals

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► Raquel Couture: Your destination for exclusive bridal gowns, evening gowns, and ready to wear dresses. Offering a wide range of prices to suit every budget without compromising on quality or style!⁠ ⁠⁠Follow @raquel_couture on instagram for behind the scenes and to be updated on daily new arrivals!

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In this deeply personal episode of Stories of Hope, Tzipora Grodko sits down with Jewish singer Yoni Z (Yoni Zigelboum) and his wife Ashley Eden, just days after their wedding.

From heartbreak and long years of waiting, to finding true love at age 33, Yoni and Ashley share the raw, emotional, and inspiring journey that led them to each other. Ashley opens up about her roots in Mexico to making Aliyah, and building a new life rooted in Torah. Yoni reflects on navigating singlehood in the public eye, dealing with judgment, loneliness, and the transformative power of community and hope.

They discuss Ashley’s journey from a secular upbringing to a life of religious devotion. They explore the struggles of dating in the Orthodox world, and Yoni’s decision to take a break from music to focus on finding the right partner. They share how they met through a shidduch, the people who guided them along the way, and the impact of community support during their single years.

This episode also highlights the emotional toll of being single in a family-centric religious environment, and how married individuals can be more mindful and inclusive. Yoni and Ashley speak openly about the power of hospitality, the importance of avoiding judgment, and their shared commitment to supporting other singles still waiting for their match.

This is more than a love story — it’s a story of resilience, faith, and never giving up on what’s meant for you.

Subscribe to hear more powerful Jewish stories that inspire hope and healing.

To get in touch you can email: Yonismusic@gmail.com or find him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsyoniz/

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

► PZ Deals

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___________________________

► Woodmont College

If you're exploring a practical, high-paying career path, consider getting your BS in Computer Programming from Woodmont College — a frum, accredited online college that teaches real, job-ready skills. You can start anytime, transfer credits, graduate quickly, and it’s affordable with scholarships available. Perfect for those who want to support a frum family with a solid, six-figure career.

👉 https://bit.ly/4khCFXe

___________________________

► Pizza Biza

Delight your guests with our expansive menu and a culinary experience that exceeds expectations.

https://www.pizzabiza.com

___________________________

► Raquel Couture: Your destination for exclusive bridal gowns, evening gowns, and ready to wear dresses. Offering a wide range of prices to suit every budget without compromising on quality or style!⁠ ⁠⁠Follow @raquel_couture on instagram for behind the scenes and to be updated on daily new arrivals!

5% off ready to wear and evening-wear when you mention Stories of Hope*

*Promotion is valid at time of purchase

Valid on ready to wear dresses and gown purchases

https://www.instagram.com/raquel_couture/

Or visit their website https://www.raquelcouture.com

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Or email Tziporagrodko@gmail.com

Editor: Sruly Saftlas

Special thanks to Binyamin Korn Photography for letting us use the wedding video.

In this unforgettable episode, host Tzipora Grodko welcomes Tzirel Liba and Yankel Greenberg, a couple whose individual journeys of faith, heartbreak, growth, and divine timing converge into a powerful story of hope and healing.

Raised in a warm but non-observant Jewish home in Queens, Tzirel Liba always felt a deep connection to Judaism. Her path took her from Hebrew school curiosity to becoming a devoted Baalas Teshuva, navigating decades of spiritual searching, marriage, motherhood, and eventually, single parenthood. For 13 years, she raised seven children on her own—leaning on Emunah, gratitude, and music to carry her through immense challenges. Along the way, she founded the "Shabbos Queen Project" and composed over 120 songs that gave voice to her soul’s journey.

Yankel Greenberg, born and raised in Southern California, grew up secular but spiritually searching. A chance encounter with Chabad, combined with his growing discomfort in the conservative movement, led him to a deeper relationship with Torah and Yiddishkeit. After losing his first wife of 41 years, he too found himself in a place of reinvention—open to what Hashem might have in store next.

Two people. Two long journeys. One extraordinary meeting.

Through faith, patience, and relentless trust in Hashem’s plan, their paths finally crossed—and a new love story began. Now remarried, Tzirel Liba and Yankel share how their life experiences prepared them for each other, and how healing and connection can blossom even after years of pain.

This episode is a moving testament to the power of resilience, divine timing, and the endless possibilities that open up when you live with purpose and trust.

To get in touch you can email: Stu770@gmail.com

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

►PZ Deals

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Or email Tziporagrodko@gmail.com

Editor: Sruly Saftlas

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of Stories of Hope, Tzipora Grodko sits down with Sheba and Orian Barzilay to explore their unique spiritual journeys, cultural identities, and the winding paths that led them both to a life of religious observance.

Sheba opens up about growing up in a traditional Persian-Jewish home, navigating the shift from a modern Orthodox education to embracing mitzvot on her own terms. Orian shares how his Israeli-Yemenite background, life experiences, and even a surprising detour into astrology and astronomy eventually led him back to Judaism—with a spark ignited in a Barnes & Noble aisle.

Together, they candidly discuss the challenges of dating while becoming religious, the emotions surrounding the experience, and the clarity that only comes through faith and growth. Their story is one of resilience, timing, and the unexpected roads that lead us home.

To get in touch you can email:

shourizadeh@gmail.com or barzilayorian@gmail.com

To contact Tzipora Grodko with suggestions, comments or questions, you can email: SOH@meaningfulminute.org or message her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tziporagrodko

This episode was brought you in part by:

►PZ Deals

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___________________________

►NEW COURSE: Parents Navigating Shidduchim You deserve better.

Join the Exclusive 5-week course given by Yaffa Palti

Learn how to feel like you're in the Living Room, and not the Waiting Room

Don’t miss the early bird special from May 3rd - May 10th for $180 total!

Click the link to learn more details and join! https://nas.io/tzipora/challenges/the-living-room-not-the-waiting-room?tab=about

Or email Tziporagrodko@gmail.com

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Editor: Sruly Saftlas