Career Coach and Kollel CEO Rav Avigdor Goldberger
Career Transitions and Self-Discovery in the Torah World: Lessons from Avigdor Goldberger
In this episode of Shtark Tank, I had the privilege of speaking with Avigdor Goldberger, a Rosh Kollel, career coach, and podcast host. Our conversation delved into the challenges of career transitions for Torah scholars, the importance of community, and the power of empathetic conversations to foster Jewish unity.
For those navigating the complexities of leaving Kollel, finding purpose, or strengthening Jewish communities, this post offers valuable insights and actionable advice.
The Unique Strength of the Minneapolis Jewish Community
Avigdor’s journey began with a desire for a strong, close-knit community, leading him to Minneapolis. He described the city’s Jewish community as “territorial” in a positive sense—a place where families invest deeply, institutions thrive, and tradition is passed down intentionally.
“When choosing a community,” he explained, “it’s about more than just amenities. You want to find a place that aligns with your values and where you can make an impact.”
His experience highlights the importance of intentionality when choosing a Jewish community, especially for those seeking to balance Torah learning with family life.
Guiding Torah Scholars Through Career Transitions
As Rosh Kollel, Avigdor noticed a recurring question: “What’s next after Kollel?” Many young men struggled to transition from the structured environment of full-time learning to the workforce.
Avigdor stepped into a mentorship role, helping his students identify their strengths and explore career paths that suited them. “Many in Kollel are great at being part of a group, but they don’t always know their unique strengths,” he shared. “My job is to help them uncover their individuality and channel it into meaningful work.”
This approach bridges the gap between Torah values and career goals, offering a path forward for those leaving Kollel life.
Leveraging Personality Tests for Career Success
One of the tools Avigdor uses in his coaching is the Myers-Briggs personality framework. By blending this methodology with Torah principles, he helps clients understand their unique traits and how they translate into professional strengths.
“For example,” he explained, “someone with strong analytical abilities may excel in problem-solving roles like engineering or finance, while a hands-on individual might thrive in fields like construction or trades. The key is finding a job that aligns with who you are.”
This process highlights the value of personalized career guidance, especially for Torah scholars unfamiliar with navigating the job market.
Work Is More Than a Paycheck
A central theme of our conversation was the need to reframe how Torah scholars view work. While some see work as a necessary evil, others romanticize it as a source of constant passion and joy. Avigdor advocates for a balanced perspective.
“Every job has its challenges,” he said. “The goal is to find work that aligns with your strengths and allows you to contribute meaningfully. It’s not about finding perfection but about finding purpose.”
This philosophy is especially relevant for Bnei Torah who want to integrate their spiritual values into their professional lives.
Building Unity Through Empathy
Avigdor’s passion for community extends beyond his coaching. He hosts a podcast that brings together Jews from diverse backgrounds for open, empathetic conversations. His goal? To foster understanding without compromising Torah values.
“I want Bnei Torah to see they can learn something from someone with a very different background—and vice versa,” he explained. “These conversations aren’t about theological debates. They’re about human connection.”
This approach underscores the importance of empathy in bridging divides within the Jewish community.
Raising Individual Thinkers
Avigdor also touched on parenting, emphasizing the role of parents in fostering individuality within a Torah framework. He believes parents—not institutions—are best equipped to help children develop a strong sense of self.
“When kids grow up primarily identifying as part of a group, they may struggle to find their unique purpose,” he said. “Parents must take an active role in helping their children see themselves as individuals within the larger community.”
This perspective offers valuable guidance for parents raising children in group-oriented environments.
Conclusion: Discover Your Unique Role
Avigdor’s insights remind us that self-discovery and intentionality are transformative, whether you’re leaving Kollel, building a career, or fostering Jewish unity. His work demonstrates that understanding your strengths and individuality can help you navigate life’s transitions with purpose and clarity.
If you found this post meaningful, share it with others navigating similar challenges. Subscribe to Shtark Tank for more conversations on career transitions, personal growth, and community building. Let’s continue exploring these important topics together.