Kosher Today

Menachem Lubinsky

The Kosher Today Podcast, hosted by industry veteran Menachem Lubinsky, offers a comprehensive look into the dynamic world of kosher food. This podcast delivers breaking news, emerging global trends, and exclusive interviews with prominent industry personalities. Lubinsky, founder of Kosherfest and former editor of Kosher Today, brings his decades of experience to provide listeners with insider insights and personal commentary on significant developments in the kosher industry. Whether you're a professional in the field or simply a kosher food enthusiast, this bi-weekly podcast promises to be an essential guide to the ever-expanding kosher marketplace, where innovation continues to flourish.

  1. 01/19/2025

    Kosher Today - Connecting Israeli Business to the World: A Conversation with Gidon Katz of IMP

    Host Menachem interviews Gidon Katz, discussing the international kosher food industry and Israeli real estate. ## Guest Profile **Gidon Katz** - Representative of IMP (International Marketing and Promotions), a family business founded in the 1980s. ## Key Discussion Points ### IMP and International Food Export - Background on IMP (International Marketing and Promotions), founded by Katz's parents in the 1980s - Focus on connecting Israeli-based clients with Jewish communities worldwide, particularly in US and Canada - Specialized expertise in food industry exports - Comparison of food export challenges versus other commodities ### Market Analysis and Operations - Exploration of opportunities for Israeli products in global markets - IMP's operational processes and business model - Analysis of Charedi market dynamics in Israel and internationally - Detailed comparison of kashrut systems in Israel versus America, including advantages and challenges ### Cultural and Educational Aspects - Discussion of food culture differences between Israel and America - Educational processes required for introducing Israeli products to American markets ### Current Market Conditions - Impact of the ongoing war on Israeli food exports - Growth trends in the Israeli food industry - Current state of Israeli tourism market ### Real Estate Focus - Gidon's involvement in real estate sales to American Jewish buyers - Current trends in American Jewish investment in Israeli real estate - Analysis of increasing property purchase trends For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

    42 min
  2. 01/05/2025

    Kosher Today - Smashing Success: How Benjamin Haimoff is Revolutionizing Kosher Fast Food

    In this enlightening episode, we dive into the world of kosher fast-casual dining with Benjamin Haimoff, the innovative entrepreneur behind Smash House Burger. From his beginnings in dairy restaurants to pioneering a new concept in kosher fast food, Benjamin shares his fascinating journey and insights into the evolving kosher restaurant industry. ## Episode Highlights ### The Smash Burger Revolution Benjamin explains the unique technique behind smash burgers - a method that creates a perfectly caramelized crust while maintaining a juicy interior. He breaks down what makes a true smash burger different from traditional burger preparations and why this cooking style has gained such popularity. ### Building a Kosher Franchise We explore the intricacies of developing a kosher franchise model, including: - The unique challenges and opportunities in the kosher market - Standardizing operations while maintaining strict kosher standards - Training staff across different locations - Managing supply chains for kosher ingredients ### From Dairy to Meat: An Entrepreneur's Journey Benjamin shares his compelling transition from operating dairy restaurants to launching a meat-focused franchise, including: - Lessons learned from his chalavi restaurant experience - The decision to enter the burger market - Adapting business strategies for different cuisine types ### Marketing Across Communities The episode delves into the sophisticated marketing approach required for different locations, addressing: - Tailoring messaging for various Jewish communities - Engaging with local customs and preferences - Building brand recognition across diverse markets - Creating inclusive marketing that appeals to both kosher and non-kosher consumers ### Customer Education and Experience Benjamin discusses the importance of educating customers about the smash burger concept, including: - The unique cooking process - Why timing and technique matter - Training staff to explain the concept to new customers - Creating an engaging dining experience ### The Smash House Burger Experience The conversation concludes with insights into what makes dining at Smash House Burger special: - The importance of fresh, quality ingredients - Quick service without compromising on taste - Family-friendly atmosphere - Value proposition for kosher consumers Stay tuned for next week's episode of Kosher Today, where we'll explore another fascinating aspect of the kosher food industry. For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

    32 min
  3. 12/01/2024

    Kosher Today - Rabbi Sholem Fishbane

    Rabbi Sholem Fishbane is a prominent figure in the kosher certification world, serving as the Director of Kashrus for the Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) and the Executive Director of the Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO). With an impressive educational background from Telshe Yeshiva in Chicago and Yeshivas Mir in Jerusalem, Rabbi Fishbane brings extensive knowledge and experience to the discussion. #### The Origin of AKO - Explore the fascinating story behind the founding of the Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO) - Insights into how this umbrella group of major kosher-certifying agencies came to be #### AKO's Mission and Work - Detailed overview of the organization's crucial role in kosher certification - How AKO supports and coordinates between different kosher certifying agencies #### Developments in the Kosher World - A deep dive into the remarkable advancements in kosher certification - The evolution of kosher standards and practices over the years #### Mashgiach Professionals - Discussion on the highly qualified kosher supervisors (mashgichim) entering the field - The rigorous training and expertise required in modern kosher certification #### Technology and Kosher Certification - Exploration of technology's impact on kosher supervision - Practical applications of artificial intelligence in kosher certification - How technological innovations are transforming kosher oversight #### Challenges in the Kosher World - Insights into the current challenges facing kosher certification - Strategies for addressing complex kosher compliance issues #### Personal Journey - Rabbi Fishbane shares his personal motivations for entering the kosher certification field - Personal experiences and insights from his career #### Practical Kosher Dining Advice - Kosher considerations when purchasing coffee from different chains (Starbucks vs. Dunkin') - Important guidance for dining out while maintaining kosher standards ### Memorable Quotes (Specific quotes from the episode to be added after recording) ### Recommended Resources - Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) website - Associated Kashrus Organizations (AKO) resources ### Connect with the Guest - Learn more about Rabbi Sholem Fishbane's work - Follow AKO and cRc for latest kosher certification updates For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

    51 min
  4. 11/03/2024

    Kosher Today - Raphi Bloom

    Join Menachem Lubinsky as he sits down with Raphi Bloom, the visionary behind TotallyJewishTravel.com, the internet's largest kosher travel website. This insightful discussion explores the evolving landscape of kosher travel in today's complex world. - **TotallyJewishTravel.com Spotlight**   - Unique features and offerings of the platform   - What sets the website apart in the kosher travel space   - Tools and resources available for Jewish travelers - **Post-COVID Travel Landscape**   - How the pandemic reshaped kosher travel patterns   - Recovery and adaptation of the industry   - New safety protocols and considerations - **Impact of October 7th and Current Events**   - Changes in Jewish travel patterns since October 7th   - Security considerations for Jewish travelers   - How the industry is adapting to new safety concerns - **Pesach 2025 Season**   - Current outlook amidst regional tensions   - How the Hezbollah conflict is affecting planning   - Adaptation strategies for tour operators and hotels - **Economic Factors**   - Impact of inflation on vacation choices   - Changes in booking patterns and preferences   - How travelers are adjusting their budgets - **Emerging Travel Trends**   - New popular destinations for kosher travelers   - Up-and-coming locations gaining attention   - Why these destinations are attracting Jewish tourists - **Kashrus Logistics**   - Challenges of securing reliable mashgichim in exotic locations   - Solutions and innovations in kosher supervision   - How operators maintain high kashrus standards worldwide Rapi Bloom is the founder of TotallyJewishTravel.com, the premier online resource for kosher travel worldwide. His platform has revolutionized how Jewish travelers plan their vacations by providing comprehensive information about kosher-friendly destinations, accommodations, and services. For Menachem Lubinsky and Lubicom Marketing and Business Consulting Call 718.854.4450 or e-mail mlubinsky@lubicom.com This show was Produced and edited by thepodwaves.com

    42 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Kosher Today Podcast, hosted by industry veteran Menachem Lubinsky, offers a comprehensive look into the dynamic world of kosher food. This podcast delivers breaking news, emerging global trends, and exclusive interviews with prominent industry personalities. Lubinsky, founder of Kosherfest and former editor of Kosher Today, brings his decades of experience to provide listeners with insider insights and personal commentary on significant developments in the kosher industry. Whether you're a professional in the field or simply a kosher food enthusiast, this bi-weekly podcast promises to be an essential guide to the ever-expanding kosher marketplace, where innovation continues to flourish.