Professor Allen Hoffman is a strikingly original voice in American Jewish literature. Through his writing and his role as a founder of the Creative Writing Program at Bar-Ilan University, where he taught for many years, he has made a tremendous contribution to the art of Jewish storytelling. Funny, warm, mystical, and deeply rooted in the ideas and motifs of Torah, Midrash, and the Talmud, Hoffman's writing is both thoroughly modern and timeless, filled with unforgettable characters, vibrant prose, and profound spiritual insight.Professor Hoffman's books on Amazon: https://acesse.one/k690x63In this episode of Dreamers Like Joseph, we discuss Hoffman's books, with a special focus on Kagan's Superfecta, and explore some of the central themes that run throughout his work. From the Midrash of the fallen angel Azazel to the enduring mystery of suffering, redemption, and what it means to live a meaningful life, this conversation is a journey through some of the richest ideas in Jewish literature and imagination.In this episode, we cover:* How Professor Hoffman weaves Torah, Midrash, and Talmud into modern literary fiction.* The story of the fallen angel Azazel and his central role in *Kagan's Superfecta*.* Why a baseball batting title and the Holocaust can coexist in the same sentence, and what that reveals about the challenge of living in "the middle" of history.* What Jewish tradition teaches about suffering, evil, free will, and redemption.* The relationship between American culture and Jewish identity in Hoffman's writing.* Why storytelling remains one of Judaism's most powerful ways of exploring timeless ideas.Whether you're a reader, writer, student of Torah, or simply someone who loves great stories, I think you'll come away from this conversation with a deeper appreciation for the power of Jewish storytelling and the timeless wisdom it has to offer. If you enjoyed the episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who loves books, ideas, and meaningful conversations.

For more from Rabbi Dov Ber:https://rabbidovber.orghttps://www.instagram.com/rabbidovber...‎⁨‪@RabbiDovBerOfficial‬ ‪@Aish-Studios‬ In Episode 4 of Dreamers Like Joseph, I sit down with Rabbi Dov Ber Cohen to explore one of the Torah's most difficult and controversial stories: Shimon and Levi's destruction of Shechem. What does it mean to stand up for what's right? When does decisive action become reckless?Along the way, Rabbi Dov Ber shares his remarkable personal journey from England to Asia to Eretz Yisrael, discusses the Jewish masters who transformed his life, and offers practical wisdom on developing the inner strength to do the right thing, even when it comes at a cost.This conversation touches on courage, self-control, mindfulness, family, leadership, and the timeless challenge of "doing what needs to be done."Whether you're interested in Torah, philosophy, spirituality, or simply becoming a better person, this episode offers profound insights from one of today's most inspiring Jewish teachers.Topics include:The story of Shimon and Levi and ShechemDoing the right thing in the right wayMoral courage and difficult decisionsJewish mindfulness and contemplationBuilding self-respect through self-controlRabbi Dov Ber Cohen's extraordinary life journeyMy Glasses Guy: +1845-445-9282 Info@myglassesguy.comMarlo Plastics: https://marloplasticproducts.com/+1-(732) 792-1988 Studio Rosetta: https://rosaleahashky.myportfolio.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Oppenheimer for a wide-ranging conversation on Torah values, modern ambition, and the realities of the tech and finance worlds. You can follow Alex's podcast at his channel @verytruebyverissimo and read his articles on substack: https://alexoppenheimer.substack.com/

We explore the myths behind startup success stories, the difference between secular achievement and true greatness, and how personal values shape the way we work, invest, and lead.One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation is the Talmudic story of Ilfa and Rav Yochanan — two brilliant scholars who took radically different paths in life. Their story becomes a powerful lens for discussing career ambition, spiritual purpose, financial success, and the tension between material achievement and deeper meaning.

From Silicon Valley culture to ancient Jewish wisdom, this episode dives into:• The hidden storytelling behind startup culture• Torah perspectives on success and career choices• The story of Ilfa and Rav Yochanan and its modern relevance• Balancing spirituality with professional life• Tech, finance, investing, and leadership• Productivity vs. meaningful living• Using values to guide major life decisions

Whether you're building a career in tech, navigating Jewish life, or simply thinking deeply about purpose and success, this episode offers practical insights and timeless ideas.⏱

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Vision

02:00 Shark Tank Ideas and Investment Perspectives

03:41 Alex Oppenheimer’s Career Journey

07:07 Silicon Valley and the Culture of Innovation

09:59 Judaism vs. Secular Ideas of Greatness

11:34 The Intersection of Tech and Finance

14:59 Understanding Business Models and Metrics

19:05 The Story of Ilfa and Rav Yochanan

28:47 Personal Journeys in Jewish Life

34:45 The Importance of Foundational Values

40:53 Adapting Tradition to Modern Life

46:41 Productivity vs. Meaningful Engagement

50:16 Aligning Values with Life Goals

Episode sponsored by:

My Glasses Guy: +1845-445-9282 Info@myglassesguy.com

Marlo Plastics: https://marloplasticproducts.com/+1-(732) 792-1988 Studio Rosetta: https://rosaleahashky.myportfolio.com/

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