Are You Living the Legacy You Want to Leave?
When you picture your funeral someday, what do you hope people say about you? On my latest episode of The Vibe With Ky Podcast, I sat down with Rabbi Daniel Cohen to talk about how to live a life of meaning right now, not later. This conversation shook me, in the best way, and I want to share my biggest takeaways with you.
Listen or watch to the full episode here:
Meet Rabbi Daniel Cohen
Rabbi Daniel Cohen is a speaker, author, and mentor who has spent decades guiding people to live lives of legacy. He’s the author of What Will They Say About You When You’re Gone? and The Secret of the Light. He’s also the creator of The Legacy Academy, an online platform helping people lead intentional lives.
Official Website: https://www.rabbidanielcohen.com/
Follow him on X: https://twitter.com/RabbiDani
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rabbi-Daniel-Cohen-525771227471997/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rabbi-daniel-cohen-9894baa/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqZNloq678dJdPkVRPC1Mkw
Reverse-Engineering Your Life
Rabbi Cohen shared that at 44, the same age his mother was when she passed away suddenly, he realized he had to ask himself if he was living the life he wanted. That awakening led to his seven principles for “reverse-engineering” life so your daily choices align with how you want to be remembered.
One question he posed during our talk hit me hard: “Are you living your eulogy now?” This isn’t about guilt. It’s about clarity.
The Power of Small Acts
One of my favorite parts of our conversation was about “Elijah Moments.” Rabbi Cohen explained these as intentional acts of kindness that uplift someone’s life in ways you may never fully know. These aren’t random gestures, they’re deliberate efforts to leave a mark of compassion.
Here’s one practical step: choose one small act of kindness you can do today. It could be a text to check on a friend, a compliment, or simply listening with your full attention.
Don’t Confuse Your Role with Your Soul
Rabbi Cohen shared wisdom from NBA legend David Robinson, who said the key to balance is remembering that who you are on the court is not who you are off it. Rabbi Cohen reminded us: “Don’t confuse your role with your soul.” Your job, your titles, your mistakes… they’re not your identity.
Facing Shame and Moving Forward
We also talked about shame. Rabbi Cohen stressed that making amends is important, but so is forgiving yourself. “God doesn’t dig for dirt. He mines for gold,” he said. Every morning you wake up is proof that you’re being given another chance.
Action Steps You Can Take Today
- Reflect on what you’d like people to say about you and write it down.
- Choose one “Elijah Moment” to create this week.
- Separate your role from your soul. Make a list of who you are beyond your titles.
My Takeaway
As someone living with ADHD, anxiety, and depression, I found Rabbi Cohen’s approach freeing. Living with purpose isn’t about perfection. It’s about small, deliberate steps each day.
If you want to read Rabbi Cohen’s books, check them out here: https://www.rabbidanielcohen.com/books
I’m not a mental health professional. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a licensed therapist or qualified professional.
Much love. Good vibes. – Ky
