In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Raps — the Rabbi of Social Media — who has built a community of 2M+ followers by bringing Torah, confidence, and unapologetic Jewish identity to the digital world.
What started as simply sharing thoughts online turned into a global platform. We talk about what really happens when a Rabbi goes viral — the backlash, the hate, the pressure, and the responsibility that comes with millions of people watching. Rabbi Raps opens up about confronting antisemitism head-on, staying authentic in an algorithm-driven world, and why purpose always matters more than popularity.
From Torah to TikTok, from raising proud Jewish kids to having real conversations about the Noahide movement, this episode goes far beyond social media strategy. It’s about courage. Identity. Leadership. And what it truly takes to show up boldly when the world would rather you stay quiet.
If you’re building something online — or trying to lead with more confidence in your own life — this conversation will challenge and inspire you.
💡 In This Episode, We Cover:
◼️ How Rabbi Raps built 2M+ followers without chasing trends
◼️ The viral moment that changed everything
◼️ Dealing with hate, backlash, and public criticism
◼️ Faith vs. algorithms — and staying real online
◼️ Addressing antisemitism on a massive platform
◼️ The responsibility that comes with influence
◼️ Raising confident Jewish kids in today’s climate
◼️ The Noahide movement and global Torah conversations
◼️ The emotional cost of visibility
◼️ Why purpose beats popularity every time
◼️ The future of Jewish leadership in the digital age
⏱️ Chapters:
0:00 From Atlantic City to Rabbi Raps
1:53 From Shlichus to Running a Community
10:08 Building Shuls & Community Growth
15:13 When Social Media Changed Everything
17:02 Going Viral, Algorithms & Menorah Moments
18:46 Humans for Noah & The 7 Laws
23:34 Hate, Authenticity & Finding Your Voice
27:43 Raising Confident Jewish Kids
34:05 Purpose, Tafkid & Showing Up Online
38:35 Confidence, Cameras & Fear of Being Seen
🔗 Connect with Rabbi Raps
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbiraps/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rabbiraps?lang=en
🔗 Connect with the Host – Tuli Kraus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
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