Ep. 51: Why Rabbi Hodakov Woke Me Up In Middle Of The Night with Rabbi Zalman Lipsker

In this episode, Rabbi Zalman Lipsker, Shliach in Philadelphia, shares his remarkable journey from his childhood in Kutaisi, Georgia, and the rich history of the Lipsker family. He recounts learning in secret chadorim under the watchful eye of the KGB, experiencing the dramatic escape of Lubavitcher Chassidim from the Soviet Union, and spending time in a DP camp surrounded by Chassidim. He also describes the early years of Lubavitch life in Eretz Yisroel before eventually arriving by the Rebbe in the late 1950s. Rabbi Lipsker vividly recalls the unique privilege of being a bochur by the Rebbe during the late Yud and early Chof years, including the Rebbe teaching niggunim, receiving special shlichus'n, and more. He also shares inspiring stories from his decades of shlichus in Philadelphia, particularly in bringing countless Yidden to the Rebbe by Sunday dollars. Filled with warmth and passion, this inspiring conversation offers a rare window into the lives of Chassidim who were deeply connected to both the Frierdiker Rebbe and the Rebbe with mesirus nefesh and hiskashrus.