Home: Los Angeles, CA. Age: 77. Birthplace: Bregenz, Austria. Profession: Real estate investor and philanthropist. Organization: KFT Family Office. Significant other: My wife, Debra. Languages spoken: English and Hebrew.
Current project: Neshamah/JLife. Recent recognition: Press coverage in Bregenz, Austria. What’s been your big (or biggest) leap? Building the team at JLife and acquiring JLive. Hobbies: Skiing, golf and travel. Recent travel or adventure: Cannes, Rome and Paris. Last book read: Ransom, by Daniel Silva.
How do you define a perfect friendship? Honesty. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Transparency. What is your greatest joy? My children and grandchildren. What is your greatest fear? Serious illness. What occupation, other than your own, do you most admire? Surgeon. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Travel. How do you relieve stress? Taking a long walk. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Great scenery, interesting sights and culture.
What was your first paying job? Tax lawyer. What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Baseball. What movie have you repeatedly watched? Casablanca. What’s prominently featured on your home or office wall? Israeli art. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? My uncle. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Work hard and try your best. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? The Holocaust.
What is your big idea?
Engaging the next generation with innovative teaching.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Integrating AI. What change would you like to see in the world? Peace and an end to extremism. What message do you want to send out into the world? Be open to new ideas. What mega-trend most concerns you? Antisemitism.
Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? King Solomon. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? Sandy Koufax. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? Photo albums. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? With my family. What advice would you give your younger self? Find a road and stay focused. What period in your life would you do differently, if you could? College—I would have more fun.
Personal mission: Helping young Jews find their Jewish identity. Personal motto: Treat others as you want them to treat you. Desired epitaph: He was a good person.
