In a recent podcast interview, Rabbi Eli Simpson, mashpia in Cincinnati, joins for a deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation that bridges Chabad history, his family’s close connection to the Rebbe, and the most effective approach to spreading Chassidus in today’s Litvish world.

He begins by sharing his family history – about his great-grandfather Reb Eliyahu Yachil Simpson and his grandfather Reb Sholom Mendel Simpson, who served as mazkirim to the Frierdiker Rebbe and the Rebbe. He describes their deep dedication, including the latter’s responsibility of handling the Rebbe’s correspondence and communication with Chassidim around the world.

Rabbi Simpson then delves into his unique perspective on the long-standing tension between Chabad and the non-Chassidic (Litvish) world. Living in Cincinnati, where Chabad interacts closely with the broader Jewish community, he explains how the Rebbe’s outlook – that “there are no more misnagdim today” – should define our approach. He stresses that opposition today comes not from ideology but from misunderstanding or jealousy, and that the only true response is genuine Ahavas Yisrael.

He emphasizes that Chabad’s mission is to share the light of Torah and Chassidus with every Jew in order to hasten the coming of Moshiach. The discussion also touches on sensitive issues within the Chabad community, underscoring that Chassidim must never allow division to weaken their shared purpose.

This episode of the Ase L’cha Rav podcast, hosted by Rabbi Betzalel Bassman, continues the series’ deep dives with Rabbonim and Mashpi’im – exploring their stories, inspirations, and practical lessons for living as inspired Chassidim in the 21st century.

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