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

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Rivka Ravitz is an Israeli Haredi 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.

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”.

--------------------

EPISODE TIME STAMPS

3:20  Rivka’s beginnings, growing up in Jerusalem

6:29  A childhood in an ultra orthodox part of Jerusalem

8:18  Seminary school, beginning work as a teacher, and marriage at 18

10:27  Starting work in the Knesset for her father-in-law, as she starts bearing children

15:19  Navigating the world of Israeli politics as an Orthodox Jew

26:40  Balancing the demands of a growing family with an often demanding job

31:35  Working for the President of Israel, and meeting the Pope, then President Biden

47:55  Rivka discusses maintaining her personal values through challenging circumstances

53:39  Thoughts on her own children following in her footsteps

55:29  The future

CONNECT WITH Rivka Rivitz

For more information about Rivka Ravitz, visit Wikipedia.

ABOUT THIS PODCAST

Jews You Should Know introduces the broader community to interesting and inspiring Jewish men and women making a difference in our world. Some are already famous, some not yet so. But each is a Jew You Should Know.

The host, Rabbi Ari Koretzky, is Executive Director of MEOR Maryland (www.meormd.org), a premier Jewish outreach and educational organization. MEOR operates nationally on twenty campuses and in Manhattan; visit the national website at www.meor.org.

Please visit www.JewsYouShouldKnow.com follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn or on Facebook.

Have feedback for the show, or suggestions for future guests? E-mail us at JewsYouShouldKnow@gmail.com.

Want to support this podcast? Visit Patreon.com. A small monthly contribution goes a long way!!