HBHA Lore

In this episode, longtime art teacher Kelly Reichman shares stories from her time as a college singer (including a once-in-a-lifetime moment alongside a famous country music legend) and reflects on her nearly 30-year career teaching art at HBHA. We highlight some standout student artwork and explore how engaging in art supports the brain in unique ways. Kelly also offers her perspective on creativity, reminding us that being an artist is something everyone can access.

In this lively episode, the Bell siblings take the mic to share stories, talents, and a lot of personality. Jacob dives into his surprisingly impressive skill as a cartographer, while Natalie reflects on the unique challenge of balancing medical training with life in ROTC. Madi brings us up to speed on her journey, wrapping up a Chemical Engineering degree at the University of Missouri. The episode is packed with throwbacks to each sibling’s time in the HBHA Upper School play. It all wraps up with a fun and competitive game of “Bell Most Likely,” where the siblings vote on who’s destined to become a Jeopardy champion, survive on a deserted island, etc. Be prepared for humor, nostalgia, and fun.

Jordan '08 Marks shares stories from his journey as an emergency room physician, from working on an ambulance to serving in New York City during the height of the COVID pandemic. He also brings us into his life at home, with the hilarious chaos of raising a toddler and twin babies. Along the way, we revisit some unforgettable HBHA memories. Hear about the time he hid in a very unexpected spot during class and a class trip to Israel, where he nearly got lost… only to be found in a surprising place thirty minutes later.

In this episode, we learn about Jacob's career as a filmmaker and editor since graduating from HBHA in 2016. Discover how HBHA nurtured his early passion for videography and editing, and hear a few funny stories along the way - including snippets from his video productions from his HBHA days to the present.

Join us for a conversation with Netta Krashin, whose connection to HBHA spans more than three decades as a teacher, administrator, parent, and now grandparent. Netta shares her journey from early childhood in Israel to life in America, and reveals a surprising sport that showcases her unexpected passion and talent.Listeners will hear about some of her favorite school projects, including the beloved Presidents Fair, and learn how her roles at HBHA — from second-grade teacher to Director of Student Services — shaped generations of students.

In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Daniel '02 Magariel to talk about the path from HBHA classrooms to publishing acclaimed novels.Daniel shares the story behind writing his two books, One of the Boys and Walk the Darkness Down, and reflects on the authors who shaped his voice and approach to storytelling. He also takes us behind the scenes of his latest novel, including his time working on a fishing boat.And of course, we revisit his HBHA roots: the teachers who challenged him, the moments that sparked his love of writing, and the memories that still stay with him.

This episode honors Todd Clauer, proud parent of three HBHA graduates and dedicated staff member for 25 years. He served HBHA as a Science & Math Teacher, Upper School Principal, College Guidance Counselor, and Cross Country Coach. His impact on the HBHA community is immeasurable, and he is dearly missed.

In this episode, we sit down with Lara Krigel Pabst, HBHA Class of ’97 and current HBHA parent, for a conversation that spans career, community, and childhood memories.Lara reflects on her path in the legal field and her ongoing involvement on the boards of several Jewish organizations across the Kansas City area. She also shares stories from her own HBHA days, including a hilarious memory from her Chag Siddur celebration.

In this episode, alumna Eliana '18 Saidel shares how her Jewish learning (and teaching!) has continued since graduation, her favorite spots around New York City, and which Broadway musical she’d love to star in. Plus, enjoy a clip from one of her standout HBHA performances in The Laramie Project and hear stories from her many other school plays.

Get to know HBHA alumnus Micah '09 Levine as he reflects on his path from HBHA to a career in pulmonology in this episode of HBHA Lore! Micah Levine (not to be confused with HBHA Lore host Micah Margolies) shares stories from founding his own company, his work with Jewish agencies, and his favorite HBHA memories.

Get to know Elana '16, Kayla '18, and Mirra '20 Goldenberg in this entertaining episode of HBHA Lore! Hear about their work in the medical and social work fields, reminisce with them about their favorite HBHA experiences, and enjoy a friendly competition to see who knows her sisters the best!

From HBHA memories to life as a Jewish professional, HBHA alumnus Matt '05 Rissien shares stories, favorite HBHA moments, and a glimpse into all he's experienced since graduation.

Calling in from her study abroad adventure in Portugal, Alumna Annie '23 Fingersh shares a bit about her life at Northwestern, travel plans, and her favorite HBHA memories.

Sit down with Rabbi Berel Sosover to learn about his life and reminisce on 20 years of teaching at HBHA!

Get to know HBHA alumnus Jonathan Edelman! In this episode, Jonathan reflects on his time at HBHA and how it influenced his current work as the Collections Curator at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.

In this episode of HBHA Lore, we sit down with Kaley, an HBHA alumna and current parent of three students, as she reflects on her time at the Academy and how it shaped her path. She shares stories from her student days, the transitions and challenges she’s navigated since then, and how her experiences led her into a meaningful career as an art therapist. 

In Episode 2 of HBHA Lore, we sit down with longtime HBHA teacher Laura Hewitt to hear her stories, experiences, and reflections from her time at the Academy and beyond.

In our very first episode of HBHA Lore, host Micah Margolies sits down with alum and Director of Athletics & Student Life Sam Matsil (’16). From his years as a student athlete to leading HBHA’s athletics program today, Sam shares favorite memories, behind-the-scenes stories, and the lessons he’s carried with him.

Host Micah Margolies introduces Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy's new official podcast, HBHA Lore.