Anything But Traditional

By: Tamar Ben Tzvi
  • Summary

  • Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, and family dynamics are no exception. In the Orthodox Jewish community, there's a common perception of what a traditional family should look like. But the truth is, families are as diverse as life itself, and it's time to create a more open and accepting space within our community. If your family doesn't fit the mold, you're not alone. Our mission is to initiate a conversation about Jewish families, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding for all. We want to inspire young families to rethink and reimagine what a thriving Orthodox Jewish family can be, even when facing adversity. Join us as we explore the myriad paths that families have taken, both by choice and circumstance, to reach their unique destinations. This is an original podcast by Tales Of.
    Copyright 2025 Tamar Ben Tzvi
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Episodes
  • Laughter, Faith, and Fertility: Shoshana Charnoff
    May 8 2025

    Shoshana Charnoff, known on stage as Shoshana Shazam, co-directed the JLIC (Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) program at Queens College, fostering Jewish learning and community for several years.

    Six years ago, she made aliyah with her family, settling in Israel to begin a new chapter.

    Today, Shoshana is an emerging Orthodox comedian and inspirational speaker, best known for her signature events, "Comedy and Emunah," which blend stand-up comedy with moving stories of faith.

    She is also an avid runner, dancer, cook, and a dedicated wife and mother to three children.

    In this episode, Shoshana shares her upbringing in Philadelphia, her shift from modern Orthodox to stronger religious observance, and her work in Jewish nonprofit organizations.

    A significant portion of the episode delves into Shoshana's challenging fertility journey, which involved multiple miscarriages, the birth of her children, and ultimately a life-changing hysterectomy.

    Through humor and deep faith, Shoshana navigates these personal hardships and uses her experiences to inspire others. The episode underscores the importance of resilience, faith, and authenticity in facing life's challenges.

    01:43 - Shoshana's Early Life and Upbringing

    03:25 - Influences and Inspirations

    13:06 - Choosing a Path in Israel

    25:11 - Meeting Robbie and Early Marriage

    28:36 - Career Beginnings and JLIC

    33:39 - Navigating the Orthodox Community

    37:40 - Aliyah

    38:59 - The Power of Laughter and Inspiration

    44:10 - Fertility Struggles and Triumphs

    55:06 - A Miraculous Pregnancy

    01:08:52 - Embracing Life's Challenges

    01:12:05 - Final Reflections

    *For updates and conversations about these episodes, follow me at @talesoftamar on Instagram.

    You can also reach out to Tamar@tales-of.com with questions, comments, or inquiries, and/or check out my website tales-of.com to learn more about who I am and what I do.

    If you would like to donate to continue the initiative, please send money via Zelle to tberg93@gmail.com

    Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Mind, Body, and Soul: Tasha Cohen
    May 1 2025

    Tasha Cohen made Aliyah from London in 2012.

    She has a strong background in entrepreneurship and operations management, having led multiple startups across various industries.

    For over twenty years, she has also been deeply committed to mind, body, and soul healing - a passion that took on new urgency after October 7.


    Understanding firsthand the physical and emotional toll of trauma, Tasha immediately took action.


    What started as transporting soldiers and supplies to bases quickly revealed a deeper need: physical and emotional support to IDF soldiers.


    In response, she founded Chayal’s Angels, a grassroots initiative that became an official nonprofit in April 2024.


    The episode delves into Tasha's personal journey, discussing her struggles with mental health, chronic pain, and her path to spiritual and physical resilience.


    Tasha shares her upbringing, her relationship with Judaism, and her evolution to integrate unconventional practices like tattoos into her spiritual life.


    She also discusses her various career paths, passion for childcare, and the importance of a balanced life that focuses on mind, body, and soul.


    00:37 - Introducing Tasha Cohen: A Woman of Many Talents

    01:28 - Founding Chayal's Angels: A Mission of Healing

    03:38 - A Unique Relationship with Judaism

    05:21 - Tasha's Upbringing and Family Background

    08:23 - Struggles and Self-Discovery

    13:06 - Seminary Life and Personal Growth

    23:01 - The Significance of Tattoos in Tasha's Life

    30:04 - Career Paths and Ambitions

    33:58 - Mental Health Challenges and Healing

    36:16 - Exploring Somatic Therapies

    42:38 - Facing Life's Challenges Head-On

    44:12 - Personal Journey with Chronic Pain

    56:24 - Emotional and Physical Healing

    01:01:46 - Chayal's Angels: Helping Soldiers Heal

    01:12:28 - Faith and Resilience

    01:21:23 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    *For updates and conversations about these episodes, follow me at @talesoftamar on Instagram.

    You can also reach out to Tamar@tales-of.com with questions, comments, or inquiries, and/or check out my website tales-of.com to learn more about who I am and what I do.

    If you would like to donate to continue the initiative, please send money via Zelle to tberg93@gmail.com

    Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • Legacy of Netanel Young, A True Hero of Israel: Eliot Young
    Apr 24 2025

    Eliot Young grew up in North London and made aliyah at the age of 23.

    In this episode, he discusses his life story, his transition to life in Israel, and his deep love for the land and people of Israel.

    Eliot reflects on the tragic loss of his brother, Natanel, a young soldier who was killed in combat on October 7th, sharing insights into the profound impact this had on his family.

    Elliot discusses the support his family received during their unimaginable grief, the importance of unity and community, and how his brother's legacy lives on through acts of kindness and resilience.

    This episode underscores the heroism of soldiers and the strength found in communal bonds amidst adversity.

    Am Yisrael Chai

    00:00 - Meet Eliot Young

    01:56 - Life in North London

    02:50 - Aliyah

    09:59 - Sibling Relationships and Family Dynamics

    18:29 - Netanel's Personality and Legacy

    33:33 - Support and Community Response

    42:00 - The Day of October 7th

    50:16 - The Aftermath and Family Support

    51:58 - A Brother's Journey to Ashkelon

    58:09 - The Funeral and Community Support

    01:14:11 - A Lasting Impact

    01:21:13 - Moving Forward with Purpose

    *For updates and conversations about these episodes, follow me at @talesoftamar on Instagram.

    You can also reach out to Tamar@tales-of.com with questions, comments, or inquiries, and/or check out my website tales-of.com to learn more about who I am and what I do.

    If you would like to donate to continue the initiative, please send money via Zelle to tberg93@gmail.com

    Thank you for listening and strengthening the Jewish nation!

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    1 hr and 28 mins

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