Mar 18 2025 30 mins
In this episode of the Tribesmen Podcast, I sit down with Yakir Wachstock, the founder of Boots for Israel, an organization that’s outfitting Israel’s reservist soldiers with one of the most basic but critical tools—high-quality combat boots.
Yakir shares his unbelievable story of how a 2:30 AM phone call from an IDF Major led him on a mission that’s now delivered over 80,000 pairs of boots to IDF reservists across Israel. He opens up about the grind, the miracles, and the powerful connections this journey has created between Jews in America and soldiers on the front lines.
This isn’t just about boots.
It’s about brotherhood.
It’s about action.
And it’s about YOU realizing the difference you can make when you step up.
What You’ll Learn:
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How an occupational therapist from New York stepped up to supply IDF reservists with life-saving boots.
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The 2:30 AM phone call that launched a mission now helping thousands of soldiers on the front lines.
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Why proper combat boots are critical for reservists serving 200+ days in extreme conditions.
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How Yakir turned a simple act into a movement that’s delivered over 80,000 pairs of boots—one soldier at a time.
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The powerful stories and miracles that show how one small action can make an enormous difference.
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Why the fight isn’t over, even in times of ceasefire—and why the need for unity, support, and action is greater than ever.
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How Boots for Israel is connecting Jews across the world and strengthening Am Yisrael in a time of crisis.
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What’s next for Boots for Israel and how YOU can step up, get involved, and make an impact today.
Key Takeaways for the Tribe:
✅ Take Action When You’re Called
Yakir didn’t wait to be an expert. He heard a need and stepped up. So can you.
✅ One Pair of Boots = One Life Changed
This isn’t about numbers. It’s about one soldier, one pair of boots, one act of care—80,000 times over.
✅ Am Yisrael Chai Means More Than Words
Support isn’t just money. It’s showing up, writing a note, packing boots, and being part of something bigger than yourself.
✅ You’re Never Too Small to Make a Difference
Yakir was “just” an occupational therapist. Now he’s leading a mission that’s changed tens of thousands of lives.
✅ Our Soldiers Need Us—Now More Than Ever
Even in ceasefire, the battle isn’t over. Soldiers are still in harm’s way. And they’re counting on us.
Chazak ve’ematz!
Yigal
P.S. If this episode moved you, take one small step today. Visit bootsforisrael.com, donate a pair of boots, or bring Yakir to your community. Our soldiers are counting on us.