This week, Achdus Magazine speaks with Rabbi Ben-Tzion Shafier — world-renowned educator, founder of The Shmuz, author of multiple bestselling sefarim, and one of today’s most sought-after voices in marriage education and guidance. Rabbi Shafier’s groundbreaking marriage programs, including 10 Really Dumb Mistakes That Very Smart Couples Make, his Five Minutes to a Great Marriage curriculum, and his comprehensive mentor-training courses, have helped thousands of couples strengthen their homes, repair emotional disconnect, and build marriages rooted in respect, love, and Torah values. His shiurim, books, and hands-on work with over a thousand couples have positioned him as a leading force in transforming the landscape of shalom bayis education.
Rabbi Shafier, a veteran rebbe with decades of classroom experience, originally developed The Shmuz as a powerful platform to deliver practical Torah hashkafah to working young men. What began as weekly schmuessen soon grew into a beloved resource — a blend of mussar, life wisdom, and clarity — that resonated deeply with listeners.
But as the needs of Klal Yisrael evolved, so did Rabbi Shafier’s mission. Hearing an ever-growing stream of marriage questions, and realizing how unprepared many couples were for the realities of building a bayis ne’eman, he pivoted his focus toward marriage education and guidance. That shift would become the foundation of his life’s work: empowering couples with the tools, understanding, and perspective needed to create strong, lasting relationships.
In this issue, we explore Rabbi Shafier’s journey from the Bais Medrash to the classroom, from The Shmuz to marriage mentoring. Through his candid reflections, he shares how his early years shaped his approach, the patterns he discovered while helping couples, and the transformative principles that underpin successful relationships.
Read more in this week’s edition of Achdus Magazine…
