Transitioning from Law to Religious Leadership and Media

Having always yearned for a career that allowed me to convey Jewish concepts to a broad audience, I initially pursued a stable path as a corporate lawyer to ensure financial security.

After practicing law for around three years, I ventured into the spiritual realm, training to become a rabbi. This decision led me to a role as the director of character development at a Jewish middle school, a position I held from 2016 to 2019.

Balancing Passion and Practicality

Though I adored my work in education, the financial strains of supporting a family prompted another career shift at age 40. I am now the CEO of the Jewish Broadcasting Service, fulfilling a long-held dream.

The insights I gained from navigating these changes have deeply informed my understanding of what makes a job truly satisfying.

Initial Aspirations and Realities

Growing up, my connection to Judaism deepened around my Bar Mitzvah when I began observing Jewish traditions more earnestly. Motivated by a desire to share these beliefs widely, I initially studied communications with dreams of producing films.

As my studies concluded in 2001, entering Hollywood seemed daunting, leading me to choose a legal career instead, bolstered by assurances that a law degree could open numerous doors.

Law School and Early Career Challenges

Enrolling in Harvard Law in 2006, I found the work intellectually stimulating yet sometimes lacking the profound impact I sought compared to my religious studies.

Although I thrived academically and socially, my time interning at a prestigious law firm highlighted the hectic lifestyle and existential questions about the meaningfulness of my work there.

Exploring New Horizons

At age 29, I charted out potential new career paths, examining fields from venture capital to the nonprofit sector, and ultimately my interest turned towards deepening my Jewish studies by attending rabbinical school.

A New Direction in Education and Media

Becoming a rabbi at 33 proved rewarding, but financial burdens remained a concern. After three years in education, I transitioned to a think tank, which eventually led to my current role with the Jewish Broadcasting Service.

Combining communication skills, corporate knowledge, and a love for Judaism made the move to media leadership a natural fit, enabling me to broadcast enriched Jewish discourse globally.

Reflections on Career Growth

Many view career paths as a straightforward climb, but I found mine to be a journey dotted with learning opportunities and guiding stars rather than a fixed ascent.

While remaining in a lucrative legal career was an option, I knew personal fulfillment required aligning my work with broader life values, balancing financial stability with meaning and passion.

Now that I've achieved this balance, I feel fortunate and content in my role, aligning my career with both personal purpose and professional aspirations.