613 Books Podcast

Heather Dean

“613 Books” podcast spotlights a different author every week in an interview hosted by veteran broadcast and podcast producer Heather Dean. If you love to read, or write, books geared to Jewish readers, this podcast is for you! After her extraordinary 14-year career broadcasting celebrity interviews for MTV, E! Entertainment Television and Associated Press (AP) Radio, Heather upgraded her life and career, which is centered on Torah values. Interested in advertising your product or service to a Jewish audience? Heather offers a fantastic 4-Episode Sponsorship Package of this podcast, For details, contact Heather Dean Productions: https://heatherdeanproductions.com/contact/ You can buy your copy of Heather’s fascinating and inspiring memoir, "Searching for Heather Dean" on Amazon.

  1. Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Rabbi Murray Maslaton Part Two

    1D AGO

    Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Rabbi Murray Maslaton Part Two

    This episode of “613 Books” podcast is Part Two of Heather Dean’s exclusive interview with bestselling author Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, whose most recently published book is called “Rabbi Murray Maslaton: The Phenomenal Life Story of a Fearless Guardian of Torah Values.” ⠀ Rabbi Murray Maslaton was a person unlike any other. He thought differently, lived differently, and served Hashem in a way that was fresh, authentic, and entirely his own. Deeply righteous and profoundly connected to Hashem, his avodas Hashem defied easy categories. Known throughout the Syrian community simply as “the Rabbi,” he was a rare individual who mastered every role he embraced. ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to 613 Books Podcast and never miss a new episode! ⠀ = = = = = Show notes: Featured Guest: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer ⠀ Featured Book: “Rabbi Murray Maslaton: The Phenomenal Life Story of a Fearless Guardian of Torah Values.” ⠀ Link to purchase on Artscroll’s website: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422646496.html ⠀ Contact Rabbi Nachman Seltzer: NachmanSeltzer@gmail.com ⠀ Heather Dean Productions Website: https://tinyurl.com/3cjfadxb Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/mrxvykdw Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/3b26zbv3 SoundCloud: https://tinyurl.com/3x88tx6t ⠀ = = = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and never miss a new episode!

    26 min
  2. Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Rabbi Murray Maslaton Part One

    APR 15

    Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Rabbi Murray Maslaton Part One

    On this episode of “613 Books” podcast, producer Heather Dean interviews Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, a bestselling author of well over fifty (!) books, many of which are biographies, novels, collections of inspirational stories, and books about Jewish history. ⠀ Rabbi Seltzer’s most recently published book is called “Rabbi Murray Maslaton: The Phenomenal Life Story of a Fearless Guardian of Torah Values.” ⠀ Rabbi Murray Maslaton was a person unlike any other. He thought differently, lived differently, and served Hashem in a way that was fresh, authentic, and entirely his own. Deeply righteous and profoundly connected to Hashem, his avodas Hashem defied easy categories. Known throughout the Syrian community simply as “the Rabbi,” he was a rare individual who mastered every role he embraced. ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to 613 Books Podcast and never miss an episode! ⠀ = = = = = Show notes: Featured Guest: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer ⠀ Featured Book: “Rabbi Murray Maslaton: The Phenomenal Life Story of a Fearless Guardian of Torah Values.” ⠀ Link to purchase on Artscroll’s website: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422646496.html ⠀ Contact Rabbi Nachman Seltzer: NachmanSeltzer@gmail.com ⠀ = = = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week!

    30 min
  3. Rabbi David Eliezrie and His Book Undaunted Part Two

    MAR 11

    Rabbi David Eliezrie and His Book Undaunted Part Two

    This is this episode is Part Two of “613 Books” Podcast, Producer-Host Heather Dean’s guest is Rabbi David Eliezrie, the senior Chabad Shliach in Yorba Linda, California. Rabbi Eliezrie the author of Undaunted: How the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef Schneersohn saved Russian Jewry, Reimagined American Judaism, and Ignited a Global Jewish Renaissance.” ⠀ “Undaunted” highlights the courage of the Rebbe during the harshest years of Soviet oppression. While most religious leaders fled as the Communists closed synagogues and schools, Schneersohn remained, risking his life to sustain Jewish life and earning a reputation as “the last man standing.” ⠀ Despite torture and a death sentence, his defiance led to his release through international pressure. Using historical documents and rare archives, Rabbi Eliezrie shows how the Rebbe introduced Chabad teachings in Western Europe, empowered women, and built yeshivas to revive Chassidic life. The book also recounts his dramatic escape from Nazi Europe and his arrival in the U.S., where he famously declared, “America is Not Different,” sparking a transformation in Jewish life. It documents the deep personal relationship between the Sixth Rebbe and his successor, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. ⠀ “Undaunted” emphasizes that Schneersohn’s mission was driven by self-sacrifice, not martyrdom. Even in exile, he led Jewish resistance and laid the groundwork for Jewish revival worldwide, inspiring generations of Chabad leaders to persevere under oppression. ⠀ Show notes: Featured guest: Rabbi David Eliezrie, Founder & Director of North County Chabad/Congregation Beth Meir HaCohen in Yorba Linda, CA ⠀ Featured Book: “Undaunted: How the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef Schneersohn saved Russian Jewry, Reimagined American Judaism, and Ignited a Global Jewish Renaissance” ⠀ Link to Purchase on Amazon or Hamafitz: https://rabbidavideliezrie.com/books/undaunted/ ⠀ Contact Rabbi Eliezrie through the North County Chabad Center website: https://www.ocjewish.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/112336/jewish/Rabbi-David-Eliezrie.htm ⠀ North County Chabad’s Telephone Number: 714-693-0770 ⠀ Email Rabbi Eliezrie: rabbi@ocjewish.com ⠀ = = = ⠀ To Purchase “Searching for Heather Dean: My Extraordinary Career as a Celebrity Interviewer and Why I Left It” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Searching-Heather-Dean-Extraordinary-Interviewer/dp/965927050X ⠀ = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.com/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week!

    29 min
  4. Rabbi David Eliezrie and His Book Undaunted Part One

    FEB 25

    Rabbi David Eliezrie and His Book Undaunted Part One

    On this episode of “613 Books” Podcast, Producer-Host Heather Dean’s guest is Rabbi David Eliezrie, the senior Chabad Shliach in Yorba Linda, California. Rabbi Eliezrie the author of "Undaunted: How the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef Schneersohn saved Russian Jewry, Reimagined American Judaism, and Ignited a Global Jewish Renaissance.” ⠀ “Undaunted” highlights the courage of the Rebbe during the harshest years of Soviet oppression. While most religious leaders fled as the Communists closed synagogues and schools, Schneersohn remained, risking his life to sustain Jewish life and earning a reputation as “the last man standing.” ⠀ Despite torture and a death sentence, his defiance led to his release through international pressure. Using historical documents and rare archives, Rabbi Eliezrie shows how the Rebbe introduced Chabad teachings in Western Europe, empowered women, and built yeshivas to revive Chassidic life. The book also recounts his dramatic escape from Nazi Europe and his arrival in the U.S., where he famously declared, “America is Not Different,” sparking a transformation in Jewish life. It documents the deep personal relationship between the Sixth Rebbe and his successor, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. ⠀ “Undaunted” emphasizes that Schneersohn’s mission was driven by self-sacrifice, not martyrdom. Even in exile, he led Jewish resistance and laid the groundwork for Jewish revival worldwide, inspiring generations of Chabad leaders to persevere under oppression. ⠀ = = = Show notes; Featured guest: Rabbi David Eliezrie, Founder & Director of North County Chabad/Congregation Beth Meir HaCohen in Yorba Linda, CA ⠀ Featured Book: “Undaunted: How the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef Schneersohn saved Russian Jewry, Reimagined American Judaism, and Ignited a Global Jewish Renaissance” ⠀ Link to Purchase on Amazon or Hamafitz: https://rabbidavideliezrie.com/books/undaunted/ ⠀ Contact Rabbi Eliezrie through the North County Chabad Center website: https://www.ocjewish.com/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/112336/jewish/Rabbi-David-Eliezrie.htm ⠀ North County Chabad’s Telephone Number: 714-693-0770 ⠀ Email Rabbi Eliezrie: rabbi@ocjewish.com ⠀ = = = ⠀ To Purchase “Searching for Heather Dean: My Extraordinary Career as a Celebrity Interviewer and Why I Left It” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Searching-Heather-Dean-Extraordinary-Interviewer/dp/965927050X ⠀ = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.com/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week!

    31 min
  5. Esther Kurtz’s Favorite Books about Bitachon

    FEB 4

    Esther Kurtz’s Favorite Books about Bitachon

    On this episode of “613 Books” Podcast, Producer-Host Heather Dean’s guest is Mishpacha Magazine columnist Esther Kurtz, and the topic is all about bitachon, emunah, and Esther’s recommended reading list for people who are ready to infuse more bitachon (and emunah) in their lives! ⠀ Esther also hosts a popular podcast called “Emunah for Non-Rebbitzens” which is one of the best around for bite-sized daily doses of inspiration! ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! ⠀ = = = Show notes: Featured guest: Esther Kurtz ⠀ Esther’s recommended Books about Bitachon: ⠀ Beis Halevi - https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422627211.html?srsltid=AfmBOooQNPOx499x4KeQTrjA_XyHxbeutq3ETAY86BltfV34X_InAfl1 ⠀ Shaar Bitachon - https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422628164.html?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=16009991511&gbraid=0AAAAAD-ARHqV4LDXHsa0Pghmbyhm6zBTV&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4eHLBhCzARIsAJ2NZoKPEHhtBMX6DrzUhw43Xh7WtIGl2iQrTRlHb5iB7kfWHshRxJu_fssaAuQREALw_wcB ⠀ Daily Dose of Bitachon - https://www.eichlers.com/a-daily-dose-of-bitachon-mid-size-890-3.html?utm_source=google-ads&utm_campaign=Pmax_Shopping&utm_agid=&utm_term=&creative=&device=c&placement=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23266769930&gbraid=0AAAAAD_rJjUFPX9JqKL3ttdnQBbbPoqqK&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4eHLBhCzARIsAJ2NZoLFBzKiRTDfoh13gkRomco8K1enCZpmF06249lN1GIUmrJcpuAW4qYaAmnQEALw_wcB ⠀ Email/Subscriber Sign up for Esther’s Content - https://www.estherkurtz.com/emailsignup ⠀ Bitachon Shiur Sign up - https://jewishworkshops.lpages.co/ek-the-shaar-habitachon-learning-circle/?cookieUUID=5f69cb70-73d1-4997-bd5b-ebeb1795dac9 ⠀ “Emunah for Non-Rebbetzins" Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/4LK5oAMeb5FZ5yElHy6qCQ ⠀ = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.com/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week!

    38 min
  6. Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh Part Two - Encore

    JAN 21

    Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh Part Two - Encore

    This encore episode of “613 Books” podcast is PART TWO of producer Heather Dean’s interview with Rabbi Nachman Seltzer. He is the bestselling author of well over fifty books, many of which are biographies, novels, collections of inspirational stories, and books about Jewish history. ⠀ Rabbi Seltzer’s most recently-published books is called “Miracles, Missiles and Mesiras Nefesh,” which explores the war that began on October 7th, on what should have been one of the most joyous days of the year, Simchas Torah – which that year also fell on Shabbat. ⠀ Through riveting stories and unforgettable behind-the-scenes reports, Rabbi Seltzer’s book has it all: tragedy, hope, heroism, and military miracles. ⠀ THIS EPISODE focuses on: ⠀ The rise and fall of the notorious “Butcher of Khan Yunis” Yahiya Sinwar, y-sh"u, Rabbi Seltzer’s reflections being a young writer, How long it takes to write each book, Ideas for creative writing –song lyrics included - come from Hashem, The Jewish spark of Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and Ben & Jerry ⠀ His opinions about Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) as a writer’s tool and more! ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to 613 Books Podcast and never miss an episode! ⠀ = = = = = ⠀ Show notes: ⠀ Featured Guest: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer ⠀ Featured Book: Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh. ⠀ Link to purchase on Artscroll’s website https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422643204.html ⠀ Link to purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Miracles-.The-Heartbreak-Miraculous-Operations/dp/1422643204 ⠀ Contact Rabbi Nachman Seltzer: NachmanSeltzer@gmail.com ⠀ = = = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and never miss an episode!

    25 min
  7. Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh Part One  - Encore

    JAN 7

    Rabbi Nachman Seltzer and his book Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh Part One - Encore

    On this encore episode of “613 Books” podcast, producer Heather Dean interviews Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, a bestselling author of well over fifty (!) books, many of which are biographies, novels, collections of inspirational stories, and books about Jewish history. ⠀ They are discussing Rabbi Seltzer’s book, “Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh,” which explores the war that began on October 7th, on what should have been one of the most joyous days of the year, Simchas Torah – which that year also fell on Shabbat. ⠀ Through riveting stories and unforgettable behind-the-scenes reports, Rabbi Seltzer’s book has it all: tragedy, hope, heroism, and military miracles. ⠀ PART TWO of Heather’s encore interview with Rabbi Seltzer is featured in the next episode of “613 Books” podcast! ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to 613 Books Podcast and never miss an episode! ⠀ = = = Show notes: Featured Guest: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer ⠀ Featured Book: Missiles, Miracles and Mesiras Nefesh. ⠀ Link to purchase on Artscroll’s website https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422643204.html ⠀ Link to purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Miracles-.The-Heartbreak-Miraculous-Operations/dp/1422643204 ⠀ Contact Rabbi Nachman Seltzer: NachmanSeltzer@gmail.com ⠀ Binyamin Airley zt”l was killed in action in Gaza, during the “Swords of Iron” War in November 2023. He was 21 years old when he made the ultimate sacrifice. ⠀ Beit Binyamin is a beautiful retreat center in the heart of the holy city of Tzfat, named to perpetuate the memory of Binyamin Airley z”l. ⠀ Visit the Beit Binyamin website for more info, and to schedule Jen Airley to speak to your community or organization: https://beitbinyamin.org/# ⠀ = = = = = ⠀ Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger ⠀ Michael’s contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and never miss an episode!

    21 min
  8. Yocheved Davidowitz and her book I’ll Start Tomorrow  - Encore

    12/31/2025

    Yocheved Davidowitz and her book I’ll Start Tomorrow - Encore

    On this encore episode of “613 Books” podcast, Heather speaks with Yocheved Davidowitz about her book, “I’ll Start Tomorrow: A Practical Guide to Achieving Your Health and Weight Goals.” ⠀ Yocheved is also a therapist based in Cleveland, Ohio and she produces and hosts a wonderful podcast she calls “A Deeper Conversation: The Podcast for Jewish Women.” And for a daily dose of insights and inspiration about the mitzvah of Shiras Halashon (guarding one’s tongue) Yocheved hosts a brief daily audio message from a project called “Shmiras Halashon Effort.” ⠀ In “I’ll Start Tomorrow,” Yocheved explains why it’s so hard to stay on a diet as well as societal and psychological factors that are affecting people’s weight loss battles. She also gives practical tools to get healthy and stay healthy! ⠀ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! ⠀ = = = Show notes: Featured Guest: Yocheved Davidowitz, MC ⠀ Featured Book: I’ll Start Tomorrow: A Practical Guide to Achieving Your Health and Weight Goals ⠀ To Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Start-Tomorrow-Yocheved-Davidowitz-M-C/dp/B08CJWKTGZ ⠀ A Deeper Conversation: The Podcast for Jewish Women: www.maverickpodcasting.com/a-deeper-conversation ⠀ Shmiras HaLashon Effort: Brief daily insights about guarding our tongue. Link to audio: https://us18.campaign-archive.com/?e=9de0e67127&u=5cc0317a1df3c36e068b747f0&id=e978210b4f ⠀ Contact Yocheved: Lansinglanetherapy@gmail.com

    29 min
5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

“613 Books” podcast spotlights a different author every week in an interview hosted by veteran broadcast and podcast producer Heather Dean. If you love to read, or write, books geared to Jewish readers, this podcast is for you! After her extraordinary 14-year career broadcasting celebrity interviews for MTV, E! Entertainment Television and Associated Press (AP) Radio, Heather upgraded her life and career, which is centered on Torah values. Interested in advertising your product or service to a Jewish audience? Heather offers a fantastic 4-Episode Sponsorship Package of this podcast, For details, contact Heather Dean Productions: https://heatherdeanproductions.com/contact/ You can buy your copy of Heather’s fascinating and inspiring memoir, "Searching for Heather Dean" on Amazon.

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