Rosh Hashanah is one of the most important dates on the Jewish calendar, but many people who work alongside Jewish colleagues, clients, friends, and business partners may not fully understand what the holiday means—or what is appropriate to say or do. In Episode 888 of Fried On Business, Jim Fried sits down with Rabbi Mendel Potash for an accessible conversation: “Everything You Need to Know About Rosh Hashanah (But Were Afraid to Ask).”
Rosh Hashanah, literally “head of the year,” marks the Jewish New Year. In 2026, it begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, and ends after nightfall on Sunday, September 13. But Rabbi Potash explains why it is much more than a Jewish version of New Year’s Eve. It combines celebration with judgment, reflection, accountability, prayer, and renewal.
Jim and Rabbi Potash unpack familiar traditions including the sounding of the shofar, apples and honey, and round challah, while exploring the deeper meaning behind them. They discuss Rosh Hashanah as the beginning of the Days of Awe leading toward Yom Kippur, along with teshuvah—the idea of repentance, return, and course correction.
The conversation then moves into the business world. What can leaders learn from setting aside a dedicated time each year to examine their decisions, relationships, priorities, and conduct? Jim and Rabbi Potash discuss ethical leadership, personal accountability, and the value of giving yourself an annual reset.
They also offer practical guidance for anyone who wants to be respectful of Jewish employees, colleagues, partners, and clients: how to acknowledge the holiday, what “Shanah Tovah” means, how scheduling considerations matter, and why thoughtful inclusion can strengthen relationships.
Whether you are Jewish, work with Jewish colleagues, or simply want to understand one of Judaism’s most significant holidays, this episode offers an approachable introduction to the traditions, meaning, and universal lessons of Rosh Hashanah. It is timely, practical, welcoming, and designed for everyone.
Fried On Business is proudly presented by Warren Henry Auto Group.
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