Compassionate Rational Inquiry
CRI - Compassionate Rational Inquiry - is a practical method developed by David Zulberg over 15 years for transforming and blending compassion with rational clarity, helping you separate from unhealthy loops and act from resilience. By integrating inquiry and embodiment, CRI strengthens leadership, relationships, health, fitness, and overall well-being.
“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens,” - Carl Jung
Dreams may spark creativity and innovation, but real transformation begins inward. First, awaken to what is—separate ME from YOU and LIFE, and reconnect with your own power. Only then can you turn outward with clarity, set SMART goals that reflect your values, and take action that lasts
David Zulberg
Author
Born in South Africa and now based in New York, David Zulberg bridges timeless wisdom with modern science and psychology. He combines expertise in psychology, mindfulness, philosophy, coaching, and behavioral economics to help individuals and organizations uncover root beliefs that block progress, and replace them with inner clarity and empowered action.
With years of leadership in financial services, and as the founder of both an international tax recovery firm and a financing company, David brings firsthand knowledge of building high-performing teams and navigating complex business landscapes. This insider perspective gives him credibility and nuance when coaching executives, teams, and individuals through organizational, relational, emotional, health, and personal challenges.
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An accomplished author and public voice, David’s books (The Life-Transforming Diet; 5 Skinny Habits) have earned wide acclaim. He’s appeared on ABC, CBS, PIX-11, contributed to leading print and online media, led workshops with thousands of participants, and offered one-on-one coaching for CEOs and private clients aiming to deepen emotional intelligence, health, communication, and leadership resilience.
Education:
- Master's in Finance from Columbia University
- Leadership Coaching from Harvard University
- MIT Artificial Intelligence for Business Strategy
- Certified Health Coach & Fitness Specialist through ACE / American Council on Exercise
The Life-Transforming Diet
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Beyond a Diet: A lifestyle program based on the teachings of Maimonides (Rambam), empowering readers to choose what and when to eat.
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Holistic Benefits: Promotes emotional and physical health, a spiritual outlook, and sustainable weight loss for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Core Features:
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Gradual, step-by-step habit change (not “cold turkey”).
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Practical insights into breaking bad habits and building healthy ones.
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Simple, quick, no-cost exercise program.
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Daily self-support system that takes minutes.
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Guidance for Shabbos and other challenges.
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Realistic, intelligent maintenance plan.
Praise:
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Endorsed by leading rabbis, doctors, and health experts (e.g., Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, Rabbi Abraham Twerski, Rabbi Akiva Tatz).
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Recognized as making ancient wisdom accessible, practical, and enjoyable.
Reader Testimonials:
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Sustained weight loss after repeated past failures.
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Increased patience, energy, and emotional balance.
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Simple exercise routines that fit into busy lives.
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A customizable program that avoids boredom.
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Works with, not against, Shabbos and Jewish life.
The 5 Skinny Habits​
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Personal Journey:
David Zulberg turned to the wisdom of ancient thinkers—Maimonides, Aristotle, Hippocrates, Galen, and Benjamin Franklin. He discovered that ancient physicians already understood many truths that modern science is rediscovering about health, weight, and emotional well-being.
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Ancient Meets Modern:
The program blends timeless insights with modern medical knowledge for sustainable health, weight loss, disease prevention, and psychological balance.
Core Features:
A 5-step plan: add one new habit each week over five weeks.
No forbidden foods or extreme restrictions—wine and variety are included.
Focus on habit change rather than temporary dieting.
Integration of spiritual, emotional, and physical health.
A simple diet diary with affirmations and mindfulness to make self-monitoring enjoyable.
End Result:
By the end of the program, the five habits are fully integrated into daily life. You’re no longer “on a diet”—you’re living a healthier, balanced lifestyle.