Non-Jewish Couple Moves into the Jewish Hood

Meet Tim and Leslie. A non-Jewish couple with an apartment in the heart of the closed-off Hasidic enclave in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Tim is a teacher and podcaster of the podcast The Voyages of Tim Vetter. open.spotify.com/show/6K9NmK5Fp8M5vIhIx0amXQ?si=d9b492388aa34271
Leslie is also a teacher and a yoga instructor.
They live in a building that feels like a different world; full of the smells of traditional food, a parking lot of strollers in the lobby, children playing school in the hallway. What's it like for them?
In this segment, I visit Tim and Leslie at home, on their rooftop, and in their neighborhood. We discuss the clashes of cultures, the vibrant traditions, and how quintessential NYC all of this is.
For related content, see the following:
The episode with Tim Vetter I was in: open.spotify.com/episode/2eZIqLWybeAWkfaG76sagB?si=L-fyzhrmQy-JtyFdTjHMow
My eve of shabbes video where I discuss the Shabbes goy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWrEoJp_f72Jl68si=-QCRjHM8IRuHtAnd
My street festivals video where I show you the colorful street scenes of the high holidays: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWnZlqikfciBnMksi=azlXBKRXJdfhXHcz

[@timv9497]

Thanks for having us on!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you for hosting me and Keith! :)

[@PoppyOak]

Wonderful interview! Thank you for sharing your home and experience with us!! ❤

[@iwertzberger3198]

Thank you for this enjoyable interview. You guys seem to be very pleasant as neighbors. God bless you

[@Faigyfeig]

Hey we’re neighbors! Lovely interview.

[@coloradotulips]

Such an interesting interview!

[@poppykane7230]

I grew up in Toronto and lived in a Jewish neighbourhood. The orthodox people downstairs doted on me. I was the spitting image of their little girl who had been killed in a concentration camp. My second language was Yiddish. To this day ( at 75) I have a close affinity for and intimacy with the Jewish people. I am a practicing Catholic but have taught my children and grandchildren that Judaism is our parent religion. I feel so blessed to have been immersed in this wonderful community

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

What a beautiful story and what a special bond.

[@danieledelstein9129]

Wow this is an amazing story @Frieda if you can interview OP in yiddish that would be so cool as a video idea

[@joshuasussman8112]

This is such a heartwarming post.

[@Mug-82]

ס'איז וועלכע פלאץ דביסט געוויקסן און וועלכע חסידיש הויף??

[@Orionisme123]

My sister and I were born in Toronto in a Jewish hospital,had a Jewish doctor,and dentist,lived in a Jewish neighborhood until I was 8. I have so much love and respect for Jewish people

[@venom_lowrider]

Nice video. Show us the secret tunnels next time 😂

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

sorry reality isn't as crazy wild as you'd like to imagine it is.

[@stephenperretti8847]

When my mother was a little girl in the lower east side of NYC, she would light stoves (wood burning stoves) for Jews. She was born in 1911. Walking down the street she would be called by a Jewish woman and asked if she wanted a penny. She would go up the stairs and light the stove, or some other chore. The penny was already on the counter, as Jews cannot touch money in the Sabbath.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

awesome. back when a penny meant quite a bit.

[@carole2403xqv1]

My Polish American father was born in Greenpoint in 1917. He also was a shabbos goy as a boy and a young man.

[@T_WC123]

Very sweet story! I imagine that could have been very important help before the age of automated timers and sabbath-specific gadgets or appliances.

[@ginacolasacco2081]

My Babcia (Gram) who was born in 1924, would tell me the same stories from when she was young.

[@annmartin9357]

it's probably the safest neighborhood in NYC

[@marcroth3059]

Also Boro Park, Kew Gardens Hills, Midwood, etc - wherever there are Orthodox Jews it’s relatively safe.

[@rachmunshine9474]

@@marcroth3059 my cousins grew up in kew gardens for the most part.

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

My cousin said it's super hipster.

[@wieslava]

Also grew up in Kew Gardens. Miss it! Totally safe and fun honestly

[@kathleenwhite6762]

​@@marcroth3059they tale no crap off of anyone especially after all they have endured.

[@hershyd3862]

Thank you for another great video! This couple seems wonderful and so respectful and you did a wonderful job interviewing them.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I thought they struck a wonderful line of respecting others and themselves. An example of NYC at its finest!

[@rachmunshine9474]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyntrue!

[@Gannicus-USA]

Frieda-I love how even though you’ve left the community, you still realize the beauty in the community

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

There is a lot of beauty and it's wonderful to get to see all sides, the full complexity of this world.

[@Gannicus-USA]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn sure is! 😀

[@nechamahkahana5494]

yes you have a wonderful attitude that is very beautiful

[@ahambrahmasmi-qk9ui]

We lived in a building with orthodox Jews in England . The fam below us gave us Easter eggs ( we are not Christians ) still we accepted their gift of love with full gratitude. Who doesn't like chocolate ❤

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Amen, I'll take chocolates any way... :)

[@michelleturner6865]

There is nothing Christian about Easter eggs lol

[@ahambrahmasmi-qk9ui]

@@michelleturner6865 nothing christian about Chocolate either. Just that adventurous people have interesting lives

[@murrismiller2312]

jewish Orthodox... u mean Eastern Orthodox, right ???

[@murrismiller2312]

Easter eggs are a memorial to a miracle of Mary Madeline, as the gospel was spread. look up the history - please

[@jillclark6076]

I love the idea of the little kids playing together in the halls. That's a good kind of noise. So few kids where we live play outside anymore. My kids are grown and I miss that happy noise of kids at play.

[@Thenoobestgirl]

If you like children***

[@chanieweiss4288]

@JillClark I also love children's happy noise. I moved from Brooklyn to Arizona. People here are not used to noise at all. I miss seeing and hearing lots of people, especially kids.

[@mrsTraveller64]

I live in an apartmentbuilding and I would not accept having children play in the hallway, yes if they are quiet but if they throw balls,run,jump,shout..it would be horrible. It should be quiet in the building, so you can sleep also during daytime if you are sick or work nightshifts.

[@StillYHWHs]

I miss children around as well.

[@rojava1619]

My neighbors kids don’t play outside anymore it was so chill I didn’t mind it at all. I find a lot of sound like loud music overwhelming because of ear injuries but it’s nice to hear them playing laughing and zooming Sometimes I hear their basketball’s outside before they go to the park. They’re a nice family

[@PokerJokerFace69]

I live in the Hasidic neighborhood of Antwerp in Belgium (as a non-jew) and I identify with what they say. I would add that I feel like hasidic people (especially kids) look at me the way "normal" people look at them outside the neighborhood. With questioning and astonishment. It's not mean but it allows you to put yourself in their place for a second.

[@rslyc5481]

Hi, are you talking about 2018 Antwerp? It would be nice to get in touch with you to get an idea how is it like living there as a non-jew. I also live in Antwerp. Thanks

[@PokerJokerFace69]

@@rslyc5481 Yes I live on Belgiëlei. I am completely open to sharing my thoughts with you.

[@mariekatherine5238]

I’ve lived in plenty of places in NY where I was in a building and/or neighborhood where I didn’t “fit.” Korean, Chinese, Jewish (mostly Chabad and Orthodox), Italian, Puerto Rican, Egyptian. It was never really a problem. In fact, I mostly liked it.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

It's a wonderful trait - I feel like I could sense the way the exposure to other communities broadened this couple's perspectives.

[@ThunderAppeal]

Thats interesting. Who paid your rent?

[@mariekatherine5238]

@@ThunderAppealI did, except for when I was very young, a child! What’s your point?

[@dlday7821]

The noise level would make me crazy but the people are not robbing or beating people. The noise is just life. Great video ❤😊

[@VioletACordy]

🩵💙😎🩵🤍🩵FRIEDA VIZEL, YOU ARE BRILLIANT AND GORGEOUS 🌸🌸Mutti used 2 say, “BEAUTY IS, AS BEAUTY DOES” 🌷🌷G-D BLESS YOU AND YOUR BELOVED SON, FAMILY - FRIENDS

[@jude999]

Same in Mexico. It would drive me crazy.

[@morehn]

I live among Mexicans and the amount of noise they make at night and weekends is insane

[@kittykatwolf8294]

Would rather hear happy kiddies playing, than adults fighting & screaming! Or the quiet of kiddies dumped inside with devises.

[@kathygrosvenor4464]

@@morehn They celebrate Life. It’s ‘good’ noise.

[@elizabethrivetz4838]

I’m Jewish, but by no means orthodox. I grew up wearing workout clothes etc, but I wouldn’t walk around in a sports bra, especially in a frum area. Yes, you can wear whatever you like, wherever you like, but you are a stranger in an even stranger land, and out of respect for the majority around you, it would be respectful if you could throw a t-shirt on whilst you’re outside, in your own home, do what you like. In the summer, a strappy sundress I feel is fine, but a sports bra is just a little bit too bare.

[@heistube9556]

I disagree, if it's hot and she is running then it is appropriate clothing for the activity. She is in her neighborhood, where she lives, she has a right to dress how she wants. I agree if you go to someone else's neighborhood or home then you should be considerate, though it still doesn't give a right for them to make comments to you. I live in Jerusalem and am orthodox but on the most liberal side of orthodoxy. I would only run in a sports bra without a running vest over it if it was extremely hot and I was on the running track, but that is about my personal comfort level, not someone else who may see me. I do run with a running vest and running shorts throughout Jerusalem ( though I wouldn't run through Mea Shearim), only once or twice have people made comments, which really annoyed me because they were made by people from outside my neighborhood while I was running in my neighborhood.

[@RayWihak-nw3sv]

These people live in AMERICA, NOT ISRAEL.. if they have an issue with dress, they should move

[@ginacolasacco2081]

In the suburbs in NY there are communities in Rockland and Orange Counties with signs with rules/suggestions of how one should dress when visiting the community. Cannot tell an outsider how to dress!! Also besides keeping out non jews of the community members don't follow the 'rules' they will be punished. This is not rumour this is fact.

[@nrbnrm]

I really enjoyed this interview! My only negative thought was Leslie believing a sports bra is acceptable in this neighborhood. I completely understand her reasoning but knowing the neighborhood, throwing on a tshirt over a sports bra would be a form of respect versus infringing on her individuality. Just my opinion…..

[@michellelansky4490]

People think they have to assert their freedom. It's like their panic that someone is taking something away from them like a 2 yr old that says 'mine, mine' about his blankie like anybody wants it. Kind people who are wearing something over the top would happily be respectful. Like pants or tee shirts of course not but a sports bra wouldn't be appropriate anywhere 50 yrs ago.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Another commentor mentioned this. I think NYC life is about coexisting with diversity and I believe Leslie’s landlord is fully aware of this. Leslie is hardly the only local who just lives her life wearing “normal” clothing; many people who live in the neighborhood wear sports bras and tiny things. Hasidim are used to it and those who are uncomfortable with it train themselves to look down and guard their eyes. Most understand that when living in the great melting pot, the onus is on the religious person to protect themselves from transgression, not on the locals. I’m sure Leslie’s landlord gave a go at asking her to modify her clothing but understood that ultimately her wearing what she usually wears is the likely outcome.

[@vanessashimoni6548]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I agree with everything you said, nevertheless, I find it disturbing for women to go out wearing only a spots bra. I remember having a discussion in a group where a teenage girl was berating men for “ogling” her in the park because she was wearing a sports bra and a tiny pair of shorts. She really believed she was being victimized if any man looked her way. I found her behavior ridiculous. The truth is many women wear inappropriate clothing in public and that’s an issue related to our societal norms disintegrating. It’s not a good thing, it’s definitely linked to an infantile attitude that says “it doesn’t matter if I’m naked in public I must be safeguarded from the male gaze and it’s up to men and society to ensure this happens”. I don’t think it’s appropriate to wear a sports bra in this neighborhood. Of course she can wear whatever she likes, and people will respond in whatever lawful manner they see fit.

[@marakima]

@@vanessashimoni6548 There is no such thing as "inappropriate" clothing, as long as it is legal, and in New York it is indeed legal for both men and women to appear in public completely topless. And, it's also completely legal to gaze or leer at others.

[@emmib1388]

I agree that no matter what the neighborhood is, walking around in a sports bra with young children around is disrespectful.

[@ziporaperel6019]

I haven't seen the clip yet.....but i say up front. To live between chassidic jews is the safest . They mostly dont do drugs(certainly not in the open,) they dont rob you ,the dont tear your handbag from you and much more. The noise one risks everywhere. I livel in Europe in a relatively quiet street. Until some built a appartmentlic with balconies in front. And east europeans moved in. They talk loyd with open windows day and night. Waddaya know.

[@gerriebell2128]

Maybe the noise would bother me at times, but if they are what I call “happy noises” (kids playing nicely, families talking, etc), I can tolerate more and even enjoy them.

[@sadgirlx619]

One of my favorite things about living in a city is hearing the noise of other families and friends out together

[@bettymaines6305]

So interesting. I would assume living in the Hasidic community as a “ sabbos goy” isn’t that bad or else they would move to another neighborhood. It never occurred to me that the children would play in the stairwells. I applaud how they respect the Jewish traditions ( while not embracing them) and also demand they be respected by the Jewish community( telling the landlord he cannot tell her what to wear

[@dod2304]

Well, in NYC, if you find an affordable apartment, people are willing to put up with a LOT of things.

[@Zelde-M]

Thank you Frieda for a lovely, if brief look at a non-Jewish couple living in the midst of a Chasidic enclave in Brooklyn NY. See life in this environment through their eyes: accepting, interested, helpful yet independent with their own values and culture. Well-done!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

As always zelde, so appreciate your comments.

[@sunshineproductions4122]

I believe one has to crypticly suggest, not outright ask for shabbat help. I had someone say, " my timer didn't work & G.od said let there be light".

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

You’re absolutely right. I guess you figured out what they wanted…

[@rachmunshine9474]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I thought so too but then with all this Shabbos goy talk I thought maybe that was just that they couldn’t ask a reform jew or any Jew.

[@agirlisnoone5953]

Why do people sensor God?

[@arimoff]

​@agirlisnoone5953 some people avoid writing the name in full out of respect. What if the object it's written on gets destroyed for example.. all religious books with the name written in it will usually be buried and not thrown out

[@Kemidov]

@sunshineproductions4122 That is indeed required in many cases but there are others in which it is permitted to explicitly request. As with most of the laws of Shabbos, those governing when a nonJew may be asked to perform a prohibited activity for a Jew and when not are complicated and depend upon numerous factors (ultimately coming down to the balance between the severity of the need and the severity of the particular prohibitions involved). Note that in cases of danger to life, _all_ prohibitions are waived.

[@noneyabusiness8278]

Personally I don’t care who my neighbors are as long as we have the mutual respect.

[@4everseekingwisdom690]

Lol it's the probably the safest neighborhood to live in

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Probably true.

[@marcroth3059]

Add Boro Park and Midwood to the list. Where ever there is an Orthodox Jewish community it’s generally safe because people watch out for eachother.

[@stephenfisher3721]

Many people erroneously think that a Shabbes goy can do anything for a Jew without exception. Generally speaking, according to halacha (Jewish law), a Jew is forbidden to ask a non-Jew to do something for him on the Sabbath that is forbidden to the Jew. Since a Jew is forbidden to turn on a light on the Sabbath, the Jew cannot directly ask the non-Jew to turn it on. However, the non-Jew is allowed to turn on the light for himself. So the Jew could tell the non-Jew that the room is so dark it's hard to see. If the non-Jew then turns on the light, the Jew is allowed by Jewish law to benefit. How closely are the Hasidim in Williamsburg following Jewish law involving a Shabbes goy? How well do non-Jews understand when an indirect statement is used?

[@PoppyOak]

Thank you for explaining the indirect request. I was wondering how they could communicate what they wanted without saying it. Much appreciated!

[@johnjacobs7426]

They all know of these Halachic rules.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Yeah everyone in Williamsburg knows to gesture only.

[@chatisawasteoftime]

In addition, one may only ask a goy (indirectly) to do something for the benefit of Shabbos.

[@ActioninNYC]

While your comment is entirely true, it is only 50%. The other 50% requirement is that a Jew cannot benefit from work done by a gentile on the Sabbath for them, even if not requested - with very few exceptions. The exceptions are, but not limited to: For non life threatening sickness (if it was life threatening, the Jew is required to not hesitate to do the act), for a public mitzva (e.g. light off in a shul), to turn on the heat in the winter, as all are considered to be sick in the cold, to turn off the light in a child's bedroom for same reason, and similar.

[@billducker7404]

Thank you for another lovely video. It is great that this young couple have started to fit in with th community and vice Verda ! It was a “happy” video. You all got on so much to gather. You are a real “ peoples person and a great teacher because you listen to people. I think that HaShem has given you a great gift and Zi wish you much success in what you are doing. We might not be able to be in Williamsburg but it is though you help me to be “ transported there. Thank you !!! Bill. UK

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Bill, I’m always happy when you join me virtually from the UK. :)

[@daninaavery3532]

I definitely feel safe letting my toddler wander around out Shul because whenever he falls and cries or he needs a diaper change someone will bring him to me. I don’t ignore him. I’m watching him about 75% of the time, but I help to prep the kiddush and my toddler doesn’t stay sitting next to me the whole time I’m eating. If I wasn’t part of a community that felt safe, I would keep more of a watchful eye. But it’s really nice to know everyone helps each other out. I also help kids find their parents whenever they need help with something. It’s so nice!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I think it’s a wonderful thing and a kiddish Hashem to look after each others kids. But I think it takes a kind of community for that to safely happen.

[@Crystalblue58]

Toddlers need watching 100%- you sound lazy and dangerous.

[@rachmunshine9474]

That sense of community (that’s very real) is one thing I always missed since my parents did not stay observant but I had many glimpses of it when staying with my aunt and uncle or grandparents.

[@martythomasg]

As a non- Jew, I found this content very interesting. Thanks!

[@alizahalon]

A hundred years ago, the city said that you must put in an elevator if the building had 6 stories or more. To get out of that, builders were building 5 story buildings. The cost wasn't worth it to them even though they got less rent every month.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Fascinating; tells you how laws meant to help people will effect people a hundred years down the line.

[@ashextraordinaire]

I love the concept of a shabbos goy. At the hospital where my grandmother volunteered, Orthodox parents came to visit their children on Saturdays, but obviously they weren't allowed to set off the automatic doors, so a gentile staff member would be waiting by the entrance to open the doors for them. I was just a little girl, but when my grandmother explained what was happening, I thought it was the sweetest thing!

[@seekinggodfirst754]

I don't like the idea. It comes off as exploitative. Plus, aren't they (the Jews) indirectly violating their religious obligations?

[@GreenCanvasInteriorscape]

Maybe your projecting or ascribing nefarious motives to someone holding a door for someone? Exploitative such a big word for holding a door

[@seekinggodfirst754]

@@GreenCanvasInteriorscape Well, you tell me how you would feel if someone specifically assigned you tasks to do that their religion forbids them to do.

[@GreenCanvasInteriorscape]

I'd feel fine​@@seekinggodfirst754

[@ashextraordinaire]

@@seekinggodfirst754 I can see where you would interpret the concept that way, and I know for a fact that you're not alone in that opinion. I've just always seen it as a nice thing to do for someone else. From what I understand, though, there are observant communities that don't allow their members to ask for or to accept help from gentiles on Shabbat (precisely because they consider it an indirect violation of the rules).

[@Ch76452]

A great one again I wonder how it is for secular jews to live there

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I wonder too! Technically, they wouldn't be allowed to play the role of shabbes goy.

[@winros]

I remember in the 60s we would go visit our cousins in Brooklyn and they lived in a jewish neighborhood and I was so fascinated with the jewish people and still am!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Well then, welcome to this channel! It's all about Hasidic Jewish life. :)

[@mary-kittybonkers2374]

Thanks, Frieda for another great video. It was very interesting to get the ‘outsider’ perspective of living in such an immersive and vibrant environment.

[@tanialapolyglotte4996]

Great idea yet again! Lovely people and lovely video!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks so much! 😊 It was such a fun experience to see their lives from such an unusual perspective.

[@tashak.4186]

Keep up the good work Frieda! I’m a viewer from Toronto Canada area and I find your content SO interesting.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks! I get a lot of visitors from Toronto on my tour so I feel like I’m somehow connected to your city. Lots of great people.

[@melissawilliamson8871]

Oh Frida, just when I think you must have run out of video topics, you come up with another interesting idea. I got hooked on your channel when one of your Pearl interviews popped up in my "recommended" list. Has your channel exploded due to Pearl's contributions? Pearl is an exceptionally interesting character.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I have some great ideas (I think, ha ha) of more videos with Pearl. I'm just waiting for her to be ready!

[@kleineroteHex]

​@FriedaVizelBrooklyn exciting: more Pearl😊 That is not to say your videos without Pearl are not great, she is just so interesting.

[@calmbeforethestorm9498]

Frieda, you always bring such new experiences to me. I think I enjoy your videos more than any other. They are positive, insightful, and educational. I love that any negativity is well balanced. This was my first time seeing an apartment or neighborhood in New York; this was any eye opener.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Aww, you just made my day. I love doing these videos, even though they’re a lot of work. I can’t wait for the day that a Hasidic family will allow me into their lives!

[@jml4774]

This was a great video, so fun to watch. I am surprised at just how completely different it is in the Hasidic community.

[@amyhyde70]

Ok, I am truly interested in religions; so I have to ask this of an Orthodox Jew. If God doesn’t want you operating anything on Friday night, why isn’t it being disobedient to Him when you get a non Jew to do it for your use? Are you not disobeying and also helping a non Jew to break a law for your personal interests? Shouldn’t you just do without like The Creator intended ? What’s up ??

[@stephenfisher3721]

Excellent question and it is actually more involved than you might think. 1) According to Judaism, God has different expectations for Jews and non-Jews. For example, keeping kosher or observing the Sabbath is not required of the Gentiles. Therefore a Jew is required to observe the Sabbath, not a Gentile. 2) Contrary to what you may think, a Jew may NOT ask a Gentile to do something for the Jew which is forbidden to the Jew. However, the Gentile may do something for himself that coincidentally helps the Jew. For example, if the air conditioning is turned off on the Sabbath, the Jew cannot ask the Gentile to turn it on but he can tell the Gentile that it is so hot in the room. If the Gentile turns it on, the Jew may benefit. 3) This may seem like legalistic hairsplitting but it developed out of system which must be liveable and adaptable yet within boundaries.

[@Tali5899]

😂 You must be very tolerant and lovely people because while i'm used to this way of life you must think we are completely INSANE at times😂😂

[@VioletACordy]

🌳🌳🌲🌈🔆 HELLO, FRIEDA🩵😎🩵 THANK YOU🌷🌷ANOTHER VERY GOOD VIDEO INTERVIEW 🩵💙🤍🩵 “Non-Jewish Couple Moves into the Jewish Hood” 🩵💙🤍🩵🩵💙🤍🩵🩵💙🤍🩵💙🩵

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you dear Violet :)

[@Serendipity-gj2me]

Just realised watching this video how blessed and grateful to be living in peace and quiet. . The noise, kids, mess, and stairs would driven me mad. Thank you Frieda.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Ha ha, the price we pay for living in the city. We have a crazy person living outside my apartment building who will shout at all hours of the night “MONICA I LOVE YOU DARLING!”. It’s a shared joke among all of us in the neighborhood, although a dark joke because we get woken up by the screaming. Every so often we’ll hear someone shout out their window “shut the **** up!” That’s NYC life for ya.

[@rachmunshine9474]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn😂but also 😢.

[@chanieweiss4288]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I work in behavioral health settings. Believe me, "I love you" is ok, even if the person is screaming. But I hope you guys can sleep through it. And I suppose the person is lonely, unless Monica is there.

[@shaindystern1038]

Beautiful video thanks so much for sharing wishing everyone a wonderful day

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks Shaindy! Always enjoy hearing from you :)

[@melakify]

This was fascinating! Love this angle for videos! I love that they were so respectful, but also not afraid to tell about their differences. They seem like amazing people, because let’s be real they are living in an alternate universe and can smile about it and find the good. I love this!!! Keep up the great work Frieda!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

amen to everything you said!!

[@JohnDunn-p7t]

to be honest, having moved to chicago...Id prefer to live in an orthodox Jewish neighborhood

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Can I ask what it was that you liked about living in an Orthodox Jewish neighborhood?

[@JohnDunn-p7t]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn the morality of the community being enforced as it is, plus the solidarity of the people

[@kayflip2233]

I'm an Asian American guy and live on a 95% Jewish street on the Upper West Side in a 95% elderly Jewish building and I'm totally oblivious that I'm not just another Jewish person. Everyone is super nice. Granted it's not a Hasidic community, but still worth pointing out as people may assume Jewish people are xenophobic but that has not been my experience at all.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

a very nice report.

[@tootsieshmutsie6428]

@kayflip2233 agreed i bet they love you, cool

[@kayflip2233]

@@tootsieshmutsie6428 Yeah, even though I am in my 30s I am normal friends with with my elderly neighbors in their 70s and 80s and always chat with them when I pass them in the hallway. They bust my chops constantly and even give me baked goods during the various Jewish holidays. It's like I'm one of them. Older people are much more current in terms of humor and relatability than people give them credit for and it's actually quite easy to chat with them.

[@tootsieshmutsie6428]

@@kayflip2233 cool, tc

[@marcroth3059]

Asians especially the far East Asians have a very similar value system to the Jews.

[@PhilipSalen]

Ms. Vizel your videos are amazing. Going to these parts of Brooklyn are a little like going to another country. Also, your interest, compassion, and empathy shine through. I hope that I can do one of your tours sometime soon.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I’d love to have you on the tour! Business has actually been really slow so please come so I don’t just have one person on the tour! :)

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

This was interesting, i wish it was longer though.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you! :)

[@chanieweiss4288]

22:00 Please understand, Jewish people have to be wary of outsiders since some people (unexpectedly) publicize bad news about us, often untrue or exaggerated. BTW German is not a popular language among most traditional Jews.

[@alhetcis1578]

I’ve watched nearly all of your videos. Thanks for making your educational content

[@rlm9093]

Great conversation and mini tour. It is interesting to get a goi insider/outsider viewpoint. I live in a very small town and am content. I think I would feel suffocated to live in such a crowded place. Thanks for the interview!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

It takes some getting used to living with so many people in tiny spaces.

[@rlm9093]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I guess it would. I'm not sure I could adjust. I appreciate your content...and how you are so real and open about yourself. I also really appreciate that you interact with your viewers. These are the channels I like...where I get to have at least a small part in the conversation.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

@@rlm9093 I love interacting with the viewers. I used to have a blog that no one read and it's so amazing to put out stuff and have a conversation about it. Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@rlm9093]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn You're welcome. I've thought about blogging....but I'm such a private person...I feel very intimidated by the prospect...so I'm growing a little by interacting here in various comment sections:)

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

It's worth taking the leap; it's a nice way to express ourselves. :)

[@lookinandseein]

My Father came from an observant family- but kids are kids. The custom in their building was to leave a shot of whiskey or some cookies for the super who turned off the lights Friday night after everyone had retired for the evening. The couple you interviewed had a license plate on their refrigerator from Memphis Tennessee. My home town.

[@olitokolito1298]

Hey Frida really glad I found this video! Such an intimate snapshot of what it is like to live alongside the Chassid community.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you for watching, I thought it was a lovely and unique experience and I was sad that some people were rude in the comments to this wonderful couple.

[@andreaf7886]

I wondered what it would be like for a non-Jewish couple or individual living in Williamsburg. I had imagined it would be like moving to a different country with its distinct culture and Tim and Leslie confirmed my thoughts. Thank you, Frieda.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks Andrea!

[@andreaf7886]

I plan to listen to Tim's interview with you. Thanks for introducing him to us. @@FriedaVizelBrooklyn

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Fair warning. I UMMM an annoying lot. I probably say um more than anything else! But my interview with Tim was a real treat. He’s a great podcast host.

[@andreaf7886]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn I have never found you annoying. The people who criticize should try speaking publicly. It’s not easy and can be nerve wrecking. If you say UMMM a lot, I don’t care. Keep educating and talking. Thank you once again. ❤️

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

@@andreaf7886 You're very kind. Thank you :)

[@413smr]

I bet the FDNY wouldn't be happy about all those strollers & carriages in the lobby. In my building we were told that even a doormat is considered a hazard.

[@ginacolasacco2081]

Building codes and fire laws are constantly ignored and unfortunately it goes unpunished

[@maril1379]

In a safe area. Can always head over to North Williamsburg if they want more secular environment Actually if a landlord wants to charge more money and can get from non Hasidic tenants tbere may be mire of a shift of population Many Hasidics are going into more suburban rural ateas which is a whole other story. Not appropriate for her to be told how to dress. Situation allows these Jews to see that non Jews can be decent people. It can work both ways. So awhile ago i was walking upstate in an area where Hasidic Jews were staying in a hotel near where i was in the summer upstate. A woman cane over to me thought i could be a Shabbos goy -told her I was Jewish she felt bad but she did not know (I was wearing pants) Another time a man needed help. Told him was Jewish but was able to find someone to help.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

100%.

[@Gannicus-USA]

Just shows the owner doesn’t discriminate against people

[@Menchman]

Sounds like Jews r really nice

[@ihikealone]

This is so interesting. Thank you for another wonderful video!

[@bonniehart8527]

Wonderful video! What a lovely couple! Great interview! Thank you Freida!

[@samsungesvijf]

Thank you for this video. So nice to see how they experienced their living in this neighbourhood.

[@ginacirelli1581]

I lived in Bay Ridge for about 13 years and left in 2002 due to PTSD from 9/11. This is going to sound very strange, but thank you for the exposure therapy. I occasionally think about good times in NYC but I imagine it is very different now. The places that have most likely not changed are the Hasidic communities.

[@richardmoss5934]

Good idea to add the explanations. I don't need them but it's great for those that don't yet know.

[@kleineroteHex]

Too short a video😂 But what bothers me is the dirt, not the clutter, in the stairways, the trash on the sidewalks. I know, compared to other parts of NYC I have been to this is minimal.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

I know… the litter is very sad.

[@SusanChristmas]

I agree. I was a little disappointed that things weren't kept cleaner. The hall felt like a dirty daycare, it was a little depressing.

[@Derf56]

Another interesting video - thanks.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@robertlalor8090]

That was so interesting. Thanks for sharing Frieda.

[@lyndaalterio1027]

Thank you, Frieda, for another great video! I'm always watching for updates on your channel!! 😊😊😊

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thank you Lynda ❤️❤️

[@lookinupmovinon1088]

Lovely interview and I would feel safe living in a Jewish community.

[@rivkahmiri513]

This was beautiful Frieda. Thank to you Tim and your wife. I agree with Tim.

[@marybroderick8265]

Rent is so Expensive there!

[@JimmyDoggy-b1c]

I am non Jewish 60 % of my customers were Jewish Lots of my neighbors Jewish . We say hi each other no issues

[@lourdesjunquera4165]

What a nice video to learn about the beautiful Jewish culture. Thank you kindly!!!God Bless...

[@HarryTavor]

Hard to forget the "welcome" that Shalom Rubashkin received in iowa or the "welcome" religious Jews received in bloomingburg or the catskills or south florida or..Monsey or new square or everywhere.....on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on

[@HarryTavor]

Or even the "welcome" that Frieda's parents received when they built kj.. right frieda?

[@aggieglitter]

Another great video. I love these videos bcoz the vibes are that of my childhood. Everything is so familiar to me. The brownstones are very similar to where my grandparents lived in Poland. The sweets and supermarket items are what i grew up with. I totally get this couple bwing bothered by the noisy kids. I was one of those kids. Hanging out the window with my plastic shovel banging on the neighbours window, knocking and running, riding the elevator by myself when i was too young, running up and down the stairs from the 9th floor. I was that kid and now i have those kids 😮. Love these videos.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Awww what a great story. I'm happy for your kids. And the kid you were! I'd love to visit Poland one day. The Poland of my childhood stories was always little villages, not 9 story elevator buildings!

[@aggieglitter]

@FriedaVizelBrooklyn there are definitely still villages but im from the city. There is a very vibrant Jewish life there now. Especially Wroclaw, Krakow and Warsaw. They have communities there now with people who have discovered their Jewish roots or kept them hidden. When I visited there the White Stork Synagogue in Wroclaw was buzzing with life. There was a Chasidic man staying above us in the hotel. There were people going to synagogue Friday night and Saturday morning. There are Jewish schools there too.

[@DorisTheChicken3013]

I wonder if the orthodox community has ever considered relocating out to a big space out in the countryside?

[@stephenfisher3721]

Yes. Kiryas Joel From Wikipedia: Kiryas Joel; often locally abbreviated as KJ) is a village coterminous with the Town of Palm Tree in Orange County, New York, United States. The village shares one government with the Town. The vast majority of its residents are Yiddish-speaking Hasidic Jews who belong to the worldwide Satmar sect of Hasidism.

[@ScenariosOfDrea]

I'm glad they are exposed to other Jewish sects as well, because I think that's so important. So they know it's not just one way to be Jewish.

[@martinelanglois3158]

Wonderful video Frieda! Thank you. Although I would have a problem with the noise I feel the kids are well, having fun and laughing. There are so few appartments close to the synagogues here that I would feel I am keeping a Jewish family from renting it. But I would gladly be the Shabbes goy if I could as a woman. Loved seeing all the strollers. Real feeling of community. Envious. Have a great week! 💙

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Thanks for all the thoughts! Personally it’s interesting that once upon a time, I wouldn’t even realize the noise of the kids. Now I wouldn’t be able to handle it. On the other hand, once upon a time if I heard barking of dogs from my home, I’d be terrified. Now when I heard dogs I just miss my pup… We acclimate and change in ways we can’t imagine.

[@laurakreicburga1793]

Very interesting video. Hope it will come more videos of such kind. 😊

[@MrElliotc02]

God bless these lovely people.

[@ThanxForUploading]

Aww! If they were my neighbors I would be their friends . Most of them are probably shy with them tho

[@kathleenjordan6875]

Thank you for this wonderful video. I, too, have often wondered what it would be like to live as a Christian in the Hasidic neighborhood.

[@andreamills5852]

You have wonderful and interesting content. 😊

[@rochelgrundman9936]

Wonderful. Just wonderful. Tim and Leslie are so gentle, sweet and loving. Thank you for sharing diversity, peace, human connection in a non-judgmental way.

[@mireillelanglois6947]

Really interesting! Thank you Frieda!

[@deborahlevin6320]

I hope that someday I can come on your tour. It gives me a reason to want to travel there. I am enjoying your videos so much. You have a wonderful way of listening to your interviewees and bringing out their thoughts. I hope you continue doing your videos and this research. Thank you so much.

[@malibu64]

Thanks for this fun and enlightening slice of life ❤

[@vanessashimoni6548]

We are not sponges, we can’t fit everywhere. Another issue is that in a big city people tend to ignore each other. I know in NYC people don’t even make eye contact. That being said, I couldn’t live in this building, all the kids and the lack of space would drive me crazy. I wouldn’t fit into this community and I’m an Orthodox Jew.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Even Hasidic Jews often leave Williamsburg; it's not an easy life. Imagine two babies and a five flight walkup. It's not for everyone. I grew up in a much greener, more suburban community but fell in love with the city. It has to be for you!

[@joemoore9066]

What a wonderful video ! It was so interesting, it should have been longer. Thank you for the effort of creating and posting these informative and educational videos. It takes a lot of dedication and time. You tube is better because of you.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Oh Joe, thank you always!! 🤗🤗🤗☺️😊

[@joemoore9066]

@FriedaVizelBrooklyn Frieda, you are so very welcome !

[@kirbyesque]

Listening to their outside perspective is fascinating. I’m not even a that frum anymore but it makes Judaism sound so mysterious. I love it. ❤

[@ericah6546]

Kugal is good but you haven't lived until you've had bobka!

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

TRUTH

[@LizbetPCB]

Very nice, @Frieda Vizel! We don’t have to assimilate to enjoy our own lives and cultures, to enjoy our neighbors’. 😊

[@jude999]

I wonder why there are not more non-Jews who don't move here? The language and everything is so cool, but not the religous discipline.

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Good question. It's a complicated answer but I think apartments don't come on the market often, because there is such a dearth of housing that when an apartment because available it gets rented out through word of mouth/to relatives and never even needs to get listed on Craigslist (the famous classifieds website)/

[@saragluck6920]

There's literally no appt available. Even the ones living in this community move out. There's no appt

[@southlove]

Wonderful video, thank you.

[@ohgrammy48]

Thanks for sharing.❤️🙏🏻

[@andrewgiladi3088]

From Your Hearts... to our Hearts...🙏

[@Audioobscure]

I cant imagine not having a couch or somewhere comfy to sit. Im always lounging, never use hard chairs.

[@cohenlabe1]

Honey cookies so this was before rosh hashana he loves purim well that's almost here

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Took me a hot minute to edit it! Between honey cookies and hamen tashen...

[@bettymaines6305]

I find it very interesting that while by any normal standard of the 21st century you dress Modestly , by Hasidic standards you would not be modest , wearing pants ( which I think you always do) and your elbows were showing today ( oh the scandal). I appreciate how you made your own decisions regarding dress

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

Yeah I get criticized a lot about what I wear but I feel like I make fair choices for myself without being disrespectful. I liked how Leslie navigates "live and let live"

[@jameschicken1008]

I'm just curious but if they see someone who doesnt dress or look like them ie non jew or secular person is it ever possible that they might automatically blank them or form bad impression without taking time to understand them

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

@@jameschicken1008 James, who is the "they" you are talking about. Hasidim?

[@jameschicken1008]

@@FriedaVizelBrooklyn sorry if i was unclear or offensive but i was talking about Hasidic ie if i walked through boro park or Williamsburg wearing jeans t shirt sort of thing would i be ignored or they'd automatically get bad impression

[@FriedaVizelBrooklyn]

James, I think they'd ignore you. No one would judge you or care; I don't think they care about secular people except they get upset with "immodesty" which a sports bra counts for. Considering your name is James, I'm guessing you're not visiting in a sports bra? :) Lol.

[@RJ-hs8ch]

It looks safe and peaceful community.. I’d like yo live there

[@jekku4688]

Kind of dangerous to not teach English to your children when you live in an English speaking city, inside an English speaking nation. If there's an emergency...how does one converse? This is a very brave couple, IMO, being surrounded by a culture that is somewhat "foreign" to them. And ALL THE CHILDREN, OMG the strollers!! LOL

[@yochimevaseret4878]

Another great video by Frieda. Well done!

[@queenie1949]

I came from Yiddish area of London, living here in East London was rough. The men from Begallis, or Turkish treated us girls like gutter,prostitutes.. We had to learn how to conduct ourselves in public, it was the 1960’s, no short skirts. Mainly I used to swear at them, call them fools and ugly it’s easy in their cultures to treat girls this way. No respect for women. Thank goodness were many Jewish gentlemen and Jewish businesses around who watched out for us. I found my DNA I am 15% Ashkenazi, my grandmother was from Russia. I’m very proud of my ancestors.

[@chanieweiss4288]

The croissant light is hilarious!