Hi, I’m Kochava.
I’m a Jewish convert, a lawyer, a parent, a consultant and coach, and the voice behind Building a Jewish Life.
I started blogging because my conversion was going nowhere, and no one would help me. All I could do was read books and try to pick up things by osmosis. I couldn’t move because I had a few years left in school and didn’t want to transfer. So where did that leave me? Up a creek without a paddle, basically.
So I turned to blogging and social media for help, and thankfully, I found it. If you’re here, you probably have many of the same questions I did. Thankfully, there are now many more resources than in 2010, and I’m proud that this site is one of them.
I had a conservative conversion in 2010. I finished my orthodox conversion in January 2012, after moving to the New York City area, which is where I currently live. Now I help conversion candidates, potential conversion candidates, and born-Jews who want to learn more about their heritage. We’ll talk about everything: halacha, customs, social norms, history, controversies, pop culture, and the struggles you might face.
I created this space because conversion candidates deserve support that’s clear, honest, and rooted in real-life experience. I know how confusing and painful the process can be – because I lived it. My own conversion journey was filled with unnecessary delays, bullying, and deeply painful experiences. I also know what it feels like to come out the other side stronger, more grounded, and with a deep commitment to helping others navigate this process with as little stress, chaos, and confusion as possible.
Today, I work with conversion candidates who want practical guidance, honest answers, and real support. Whether you’re just starting your journey or trying to make it to the finish line, I offer one-on-one coaching, community support circles, and a growing library of resources designed to help you complete your conversion process as efficiently and sustainably as possible.
A disclaimer because I’m a lawyer and lawyers can’t resist disclaimers. I am not a rabbi. I am almost entirely self-taught in Jewish practice, tradition, and halacha. The statements on this blog are my understandings, opinions, personal knowledge, and predictions based on anecdotal evidence (and on statistical evidence in the rare cases that’s available). I’ve been known to be wrong, and I am willing to admit when I’m wrong. If you have a correction for a post, please make a comment on the post. I’ll review your comments, and if I agree, I will edit the post and/or add your point.
I’m also neurodiversity-positive, accommodations-aware, and fiercely committed to helping you build a Jewish life that works for you.
This isn’t about being perfect or pleasing everyone. It’s about being real, informed, and supported – and having someone in your corner who gets it.
I’m so glad you’re here.
If you’re ready to get clear, find your next steps, and make this journey a little lighter – I’d love to help. Visit the Work With Me page to learn how.