WHO WE ARE

Own Your Judaism gives people an opportunity to chart their own Jewish path. We guide people on their journey, help people identify what is missing in their Jewish lives, and build community around it. Own Your Judaism helps people activate their Jewish energy and be active agents on their own religious path.

A registered non-profit organization, Own Your Judaism is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and serves an international community. We host in-person, online, and hybrid programs, including learning, celebrating, life-cycles events, and coaching.

WHO IS THE MINDFUL RABBI

Moishe Steigmann, The Mindful Rabbi, seamlessly blends ancient Jewish wisdom with contemporary mindfulness practices. Through his teachings, writings, and workshops, he continues to influence and lead the conversation on mindful living within and beyond the Jewish community. He also speaks, hosts livestream conversations, and offers Jewish Life Coaching and organizational consultation.

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Rabbi Steigmann is a proud father of two children, loves sports, is passionate about living gratefully, and enjoys almost all puzzles and games.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Brian King

Debbie Callif

Nancy Ettenheim

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Michelle Petrova, a life-long learner and educator, has spent the last 18 years teaching in a variety of grades and diverse school environments. She most recently taught 6th through 8th grade English at The Milwaukee Jewish Day School and has taught almost every age of learner, including adults. Michelle brings an unstoppable passion for education and a repertoire of organizational systems and strategies. She is also skilled in designing curriculum, backwards planning, event planning, writing, and editing.

Michelle recently stepped away from teaching in order to focus on her family, but continues to tutor privately and keep her foot in the educational world. In her free time she enjoys reading, traveling, spending time in nature, learning and utilizing AI, listening to live music, swimming, and spending time with friends and family.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER

Alexander (Xander) Schmelzling, a videographer and photographer, has recently joined Own Your Judaism as its social media content manager. In this position, he manages OYJ's online presence, as well as plans, coordinates, and creates content that gets put out on all social media platforms. Xander is skilled in Photography, Filmmaking, Graphic Arts, Social Media Management, and Content Editing. Xander is a current senior at Nicolet High School, and will soon be going to college for Film and Television. Xander has also recently become an Eagle Scout, the Boy Scouts of America's highest award. Xander enjoys backpacking, hiking, sailing, and being behind a camera.
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