Episode 171 - The Israeli President's Chareidi Chief of Staff: A Conversation with Rivka Ravitz

<p><strong>ABOUT THIS EPISODE</strong></p> <p><strong>Rivka Ravitz</strong> is an Israeli <a href= "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haredi_Judaism">Haredi</a> political administrator, who has worked for Israeli politician and recent president of Israel Reuven Rivlin since 1999. As Rivlin’s chief of staff, she has traveled the world extensively, and has met dignitaries such as Pope John Paul II, President Joe Biden, and President Vladimir Putin.  As an ultra-orthodox Jewish woman working in the male-dominated world of Israeli politics, she has proudly maintained her religious beliefs while balancing the challenges of work with her 12 children.</p> <p>A fascinating woman with many interesting stories to tell of her time in politics, Rivka offers insights on striking a balance between one’s religious beliefs and the secular demands of the working world.  Join host Ari Koretzky, as he learns more about a “Jew You Should Know”.</p> <p>--------------------</p> <p><strong>EPISODE TIME STAMPS</strong></p> <p>3:20  Rivka’s beginnings, growing up in Jerusalem</p> <p>6:29  A childhood in an ultra orthodox part of Jerusalem</p> <p>8:18  Seminary school, beginning work as a teacher, and marriage at 18</p> <p>10:27  Starting work in the Knesset for her father-in-law, as she starts bearing children</p> <p>15:19  Navigating the world of Israeli politics as an Orthodox Jew</p> <p>26:40  Balancing the demands of a growing family with an often demanding job</p> <p>31:35  Working for the President of Israel, and meeting the Pope, then President Biden</p> <p>47:55  Rivka discusses maintaining her personal values through challenging circumstances</p> <p>53:39  Thoughts on her own children following in her footsteps</p> <p>55:29  The future</p> <p><strong>CONNECT WITH Rivka Rivitz</strong></p> <p>For more information about Rivka Ravitz, visit <a href= "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rivka_Ravitz">Wikipedia</a>.</p> <p><strong>ABOUT THIS PODCAST</strong></p> <p>Jews You Should Know introduces the broader community to interesting and inspir