From Frustration to Mastery: Sheya Seidenfeld's Journey with Zichru

From Frustration to Mastery: Sheya Seidenfeld's Journey with Zichru

We are thrilled to share a powerful new interview with Sheya Seidenfeld, the driving force behind Zichru's expansion into the Yiddish-speaking world. Sheya's journey will inspire you to think differently about your learning, no matter where you’re holding.

In this conversation, Sheya opens up about:

How Zichru revolutionized his learning – After struggling to retain what he learned for years, he found a way to “fly” through Pesachim and beyond. Imagine what it could do for you!

Practical tips – Learn how to integrate Zichru throughout your day—at mincha, while making a sandwich, or even walking to your car.

The power of small wins – Hear how the first 20 dapim transformed his outlook and how you, too, can build momentum with just 30 days of commitment.

Breaking through the barriers – Sheya talks candidly about overcoming skepticism in the Yiddish community and how you can succeed even if the system feels new or different.

Creating a movement – Sheya’s passion for spreading Zichru will leave you energized to become an ambassador, sharing your excitement with others.

Whether you're just getting started or well into the rhythm of your learning, this interview is packed with practical insights that can deepen your connection to Torah and unlock your potential to remember more than ever before.

Take a moment to listen to this inspiring conversation—it’s a must for anyone looking to get the most out of Zichru!

[Watch Now ➤]

Let this interview ignite your passion and provide practical tools to maximize your success with Zichru. Your journey to a new level of learning and retention starts now.

From Frustration to Mastery: Sheya Seidenfeld’s Journey with Zichru

Sheya Seidenfeld’s story with Zichru is one of transformation, commitment, and inspiration. Like many, Sheya struggled with retaining what he learned. He described his Torah learning as an “Etch-a-Sketch” experience: every time he closed the Gemara, the content seemed to disappear. After trying various methods, Sheya felt he was destined to forget much of what he learned—until he discovered Zichru.

Sheya’s journey began unexpectedly through an ad on All Daf. Skeptical at first, he signed up just before Pesach and received his first materials for Maseches Pesachim. Though the initial process was challenging—he even found himself Googling terms to fully understand the stories—he committed to the system. By the time he reached the Seder night, something remarkable had occurred. During a brief pause at the table, he was able to recall all 20 dapim of Pesachim he had reviewed. “I felt like I could fly,” Sheya shared, describing the incredible feeling of accomplishment and connection.

This moment was a turning point. Sheya realized the potential of Zichru, not just for himself but for others. He became passionate about introducing Zichru to the Yiddish-speaking community, a group often underserved by mainstream learning tools. “I knew right then and there that every chassidish person in my community has to know about it,” he said. Driven by this mission, Sheya spearheaded the creation of Yiddish-language PDFs and audios, making Zichru accessible to a wider audience.

Overcoming Challenges with the System

Adopting Zichru wasn’t without its hurdles. For Sheya, the shift to using stories, pictures, and focusing on three points per daf was a significant adjustment. When others questioned whether three points were enough or found the use of visuals unfamiliar, Sheya’s response was straightforward: “What do you remember now? Nothing? Then start with three points. I promise you—commit to 30 days, and you’ll remember more.”

The stories and pictures, initially perceived as unconventional, became vital tools for Sheya and many others. “The pictures aren’t the focus—they’re just handles,” he explained. For those in the heimishe community, where such methods might feel foreign, Sheya emphasized the results: “If this system gives me more time to learn and helps me retain it, how can it not be good?”

Incorporating Zichru into Daily Life

Sheya shared practical tips on integrating Zichru into a busy schedule. His approach revolves around constant, brief reviews. Whether walking to mincha, making a sandwich, or waiting for davening to begin, he’s constantly reviewing key points. “You don’t need hours. Even five seconds here and there can make a difference,” he said. For beginners, he recommends starting with one daf, listening to a shiur, reviewing the summary, and committing to daily reviews for 30 days.

Over time, Sheya’s schedule evolved. With over 1,000 dapim now part of his routine, he spends Shabbos mornings reviewing large sections in just a couple of hours. “Some masechtos are like a part of me,” he explained. “I don’t even need to think—it’s just there.”

Inspiring Others and Building a Movement

Sheya’s passion for Zichru extends beyond his own learning. He’s become a vocal advocate, traveling to speak at events, small gatherings, and even yeshivos. From large siyumim to intimate five-person sessions, Sheya’s message is the same: everyone can succeed with Zichru. “It’s not about quantity. If even one person benefits, it’s worth it,” he said.

Sheya’s efforts have sparked a grassroots movement within the Yiddish-speaking world. With the help of dedicated collaborators, he’s ensured that Zichru materials are accessible to those without smartphones or email through phone lines and printed booklets. As he puts it, “It’s a must to make it available to everyone, even bochurim.”

Looking Ahead

Sheya is committed to expanding Zichru’s reach. Plans are underway to produce sefer-style formats for Yiddish learners, complete with introductions and coaching guidance. He’s also advocating for community-wide events, like a Zichru Siyum on Bava Basra, to celebrate and inspire lomdim.

For Sheya, the ultimate goal is clear: to share the gift of retention and mastery with as many people as possible. “The Rambam says that if you love Hashem, you’ll share it with others. That’s what Zichru is for me—it’s a gift I want everyone to have.”

A Message to the Lomdim

As the conversation wrapped up, Sheya expressed his deep admiration for Rabbi Avraham Goldhar, the creator of Zichru. “He’s given so many people life,” Sheya said. “His humility and dedication are unmatched. The zchus he has is beyond words.”

Sheya’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of Zichru. Whether you’re just starting or already immersed in the system, his story is a reminder of what’s possible with commitment, passion, and the right tools. It’s never too late to start—the journey begins with one daf.