We continue a period on the Jewish calendar called the Omer â the 49 days between Passover and Shavuot that our tradition observes through a practice of counting, day by day, week by week. We imbue these days with meaning by assigning a different theme to each week that encourages self-reflection and self-improvement for the betterment of the whole community. In that spirit, weâre doing a series of interviews featuring people who have made their lifeâs work an extension of their livesâ purpose.
Last week, we began with chesed, âkindnessâ with guest Rena Rosen (if you missed it, go back and take a listen). This week, we dive into the second theme of the Omer, gevurah, discipline or strength, with two very special guests: Mark Achler and Harry Gottlieb.Â
Both of these entrepreneurs have spent decades earning their reputations for creativity, problem solving, innovation but importantly, menchie-ness, in business, and specifically in the tech universe. These guys are both the real deal; they practice what they preach, and theyâre not above giving and receiving kind and loving feedback.
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About Our Guests
Mark Achler is Managing Director of MATH Venture Partners. Prior to MATH, Mark was the Senior Vice President of New Business, Strategy and Innovation for Redbox. He is a serial entrepreneur who has co-founded four companies as well being a partner in an earlier venture fund called Kettle Partners. Mark has an undergraduate degree in Social Studies Education from Purdue University and is a frequent speaker, resource and ardent champion for the entrepreneurial community. He also teaches Entrepreneurship at Northwestern Universityâs Kellogg School of Business. Finally, full disclosure: Mark is Mishkanâs outgoing Board Chair and is a quiet, behind the scenes, pillar of our community.
Harry Gottlieb is the founder of Jellyvision and Jackbox Games. Specializing in user-experience technology, Harry created a product called ALEX®, which is now used by companies to help millions of employees select medical insurance and other employee benefits in a way that is simple and engaging. In his most recent venture, Unify America, Harryâs goal is nothing short of saving democracy.
About Mishkan Chicago
Mishkan is a spiritual community in Chicago reclaiming Judaismâs inspiration and transformative essence. Not bound by a particular location, we create radically inclusive spaces for Jewish spiritual practice and community, engaging, educating, and empowering people across the spectrum of identity, background, age, and belief.
