Let Freedom Ring

Episode Summary

Dr. Debbie Akerman sits down with Lana Ralbag—Rockland County’s top real-estate broker, agunah activist, and all-around superwoman. Lana traces her journey from St. Louis to Beverly Hills High, explains how her ex-husband’s 20-year get refusal turned her into a crusader for systemic change, and shares the deep faith that fuels her work on behalf of chained women everywhere.

Key Takeaways

• A 20-year get battle – Lana describes how her ex-husband withheld a Jewish divorce for two decades yet still remarried via a fringe beit din.

• Legal & halachic breakthroughs – Her case sparked new Israeli laws barring burial of get-refusers’ families and inspired California’s Coercive Control Act, which reclassifies get refusal as spousal abuse.

• From sales to social justice – After thriving in fashion and L.A. real estate, Lana now channels her business savvy into mentoring women toward financial independence and freedom.

• Radical optimism – Rather than dwell on anger, she embraces gratitude and higher purpose to drive public speaking, lobbying, and hands-on aid.

Notable Quotes

“Anger only hurts me; I choose to create my own path.”

“If God put me in this position, there must be a deeper purpose—and that purpose is helping other women walk free.”