Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

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Synagogue of the Monasteriotes (Thessaloniki)

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Shopify President Harley Finkelstein & The Jews of Thessaloniki

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0700

He's worth hundreds of millions, runs one of Canada's most powerful companies, and he still gets antisemitic replies every Friday when he posts “Shabbat Shalom,” here's why he refuses to stop.

Shopify President Harley Finkelstein joins host Jonah Platt for a wide-ranging conversation about Jewish identity, antisemitism, entrepreneurship, and legacy. Finkelstein, a grandson of Holocaust survivors whose family fled Hungary during the Soviet crackdown of the 1950s, opens up about why he has grown increasingly vocal as a public Jewish figure in Canada, especially in the wake of October 7th. He recounts two pivotal incidents that motivated his public advocacy: protesters storming his Big Shot podcast recording at Startup Fest, and demonstrators disrupting his speech at the opening of the Finkelstein Chabad Center in Ottawa. He discusses his relationship with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Shopify's massive e-commerce footprint (14% of all U.S. e-commerce), and his journey from being one of Shopify's first 136 merchants to its president. He also digs into Big Shot, his podcast with David Siegel that archives the stories of legendary Jewish entrepreneurs, from Charles Bronfman to Jeffrey Katzenberg, arguing that grit is the defining trait behind Jewish entrepreneurial success.

Plus, Jonah shares about his recent trip to Thessaloniki, Greece where he explored Jewish history.

Topics:

His published an op-ed in the National Post about rising antisemitism in Canada
Meeting Shopify founder Tobi Lutke at a Saturday entrepreneur coffee group
Finkelstein advocates loudly for visible Jewish philanthropy, arguing that public giving creates a "flywheel" of inspiration
Finkelstein and David Siegel co-founding Fire Belly Tea
Figures who inspired him like Jerry Schwartz and Izzy Sharp.
His optimism for AI and technology
Meeting his wife Lindsay Taub, and his view on her being a partner in life
Why he does the Big Shot podcast
Being in a public role and the responsibility that comes with that
The importance of jewish advocacy and leading by example

A special thanks to our partner this week - Hadassah.org

Donation Links:

The Jewish Community of Athens

Chabad of Greece

Jewish Museum of Greece

Mentioned in the episode:

The Jews of Thessaloniki, a Once Great Jewish City

Sephardic Jews in Eastern Europe and Greece

Romaniote Jewish History

The Route Saint Paul Followed In Greece

1492 Alhambra Decree

Talmud Torah HaGadol

The Cooking Accident that Decimated a Jewish Community of 70,000

The Treaty of Lausanne

The Nazi Occupation of Greece

Aristotle University Built on The Ruins of Jewish Cemeteries

Jewish Federations’ National Young Leadership Cabinet

Jonah Describes “The Jeremiah Effect”

Ladino! Ron Eliran: Folk Songs for Sephardic Jews

Harley Finkelstein Instagram

Harley Finkelstein LinkedIn

Red Scare

How September 11 Affected the U.S. Stock Market

Shopify

Big Shot

Harley Finkelstein weekly Shabbat Shalom post on X

Harley Finkelstein’s Article: Canadian Jews are being targeted simply because they are Jewish

Heather Reisman

Shopify President Makes Good on 18-Year-Old Promise to His Campus Rabbi

Tobias Lütke LinkedIn

Harley Finkelstein X

Jonathan Greenblatt

The Right Honorable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

Justin Trudeau | Former Prime Minister of Canada

Samuel Bronfman

Bobby Kotick

Isadore Sharp

Dubai-based Augustus Media pushes Shopify boycott over president’s tweet supporting fair reporting about Israel

Gerry Schwartz

BJJP Howie Mandel Episode

Lindsay Taub (Harley Finkelstein’s spouse)

David Segal

Hollywood’s Jewish Founders

Charles Bronfman: A Lifetime of Giving

Jeffrey Katzenberg

Barry Diller

Lynda Resnick

The Merchant Prince: The Man Behind The Gap, Old Navy, and J. Crew | Mickey Drexler

Larry Silverstein

Deni Avdija becomes 1st Israeli named to NBA All-Star Game

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Founding of the Ku Klux Klan

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

The KKK vs. Antizionism and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (Dem, NJ-5)

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0700

In this timely episode, host Jonah Platt sits down with Josh Gottheimer, the five-term U.S. Congressman serving New Jersey’s Fifth District. Josh is a leading pro-Israel voice in the Democratic Party and Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus (which he co-founded). In Congress, Josh serves on two Committees, including the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he is the Ranking Member of the National Security Agency and Cyber Subcommittee and is a member of the Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture Subcommittee. Gottheimer shares candid insights on navigating politics while being Jewish. He discusses U.S. action against Iran, arguing Iran is a major threat but criticizing the administration for shifting objectives and failing to clearly explain goals, which fuels public skepticism and risks a drawn-out conflict affecting oil prices, markets, and regional stability. He rejects conditioning aid to Israel as unfairly targeting a key democratic ally and condemns the use of “apartheid” rhetoric. He describes a major rise in antisemitism, political incentives pushing members of Congress to retreat from support for Israel, and calls for coordinated Jewish-community investment in K–12 and campus education, accountability for institutions, and tougher political engagement.

Plus, Jonah answers a podcast fan’s question on how to make anti-zionism taboo.

Topics discussed include:

The shifting center of the left and the right
The role of the Problem Solvers Caucus in bipartisan cooperation in Congress
Why the U.S.-Israel relationship is vital to American national security
Gottheimer’s work on the House Intelligence Committee and focus on Iran and Gaza
Criticism of Gavin Newsom for using the term “apartheid” regarding Israel
The influence of social media figures like Hasan Piker and political figures like Donald Trump on polarization
Addressing antisemitic rhetoric tied to movements like BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions)
Concerns about antisemitism and activism on college campuses like the University of Pennsylvania
Holding elected officials accountable at the local, state, and federal levels for antisemitism
The importance of strategic philanthropy and community coordination within the American Jewish community

A special thanks to our partner this week Hadassah.org

Mentioned in the episode:

The Transformation of the KKK from Fraternity to Religious Extremists.

1924 Democratic National Conventions - “Klanbake”

DNC Avoids Taking a Stance on Israel, AIPAC

The Growing Antisemitism Among Young Americans

Vanderbilt Professor Shaul Kelner

Briahna Joy Gray fired from The Hill after rolling her eyes at the sister of Oct 7 hostage during an interview

The Timeline of the SPLC Case That Bankrupted the Klan

Brandies Center

Students Against Antisemitism

The Lawfare Project

Klan Members Murder Conviction Leads to Decline in Membership and Political Influence

Josh Gottheimer

Josh Gottheimer Instagram

Josh Gottheimer Twitter

Sarah Hurwitz BJJP Episode

Rep. Josh Gottheimer: The New Jersey Democrat defending Israel, battling antisemitism

Problem Solvers Caucus

Congressman Thomas Suozzi

National Security Agency & Cyber Subcommittee

Gottheimer Votes to Pass War Powers Resolution

By the numbers: US thrashed military targets in Iran, but some capabilities remain

Iranian attack on Saudi base injures U.S. troops as more American forces arrive in the Middle East

How the US Navy could blockade Iran’s ports and sweep mines from the Strait of Hormuz

Israel didn’t drag the US into war with Iran — they enabled us to fight it smarter and faster

U.S. Capture of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro: Considerations for Congress

Oil prices rise on doubts US-Iran peace talks will ease Hormuz disruption

The Abraham Accords, Explained

Army survivors of deadly attack in Kuwait dispute Pentagon's account, say unit "was unprepared" to defend itself

Gottheimer Statement in Opposition to Conditioning Aid to Israel

Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam & Sharia Law Are Incompatible with the U.S. Constitution

Ayaan Hirsi Ali: 'Queers for Palestine' shows how stupid our society is

Gottheimer, Foxx Introduce Bill to Hold Higher Education Accountable for Anti-Israel, BDS Activity

Gottheimer calls Newsom’s Israel apartheid comments ‘dangerous’

Genocide, apartheid? A poll Israel cannot allow itself to ignore

Candace Owens

“The Squad” Doubles Down on Anti-Israel Comments

Representative Elaine G. Luria

Hasan Piker doubles down on Hamas support

UPenn must comply with federal subpoena seeking list of Jewish community members, judge rules

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https://www.schusterman.org

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Should Jews Proselytize? & Dueling Rabbis PART 2 with Sharon Brous & David Ingber

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Host Jonah Platt moderates part two of a spirited conversation between Rabbi Sharon Brous (IKAR, Los Angeles) and Rabbi David Ingber (Romemu, New York) about how Jewish leaders should balance moral self-critique of Israel with addressing antisemitism, especially after October 7. Ingber argues progressive Jews and rabbis overemphasize public Jewish self-criticism, undercall out antisemitism and extremism from allies, and should name today’s anti-Zionism as an ever-evolving hate movement that erases Jewish self-determination. Brous defends the Jewish tradition of teshuvah and accountability, urges speaking against West Bank settler violence and occupation, and warns that labeling all criticism or Palestinian solidarity as antisemitic blunts the response to real threats. They also debate U.S. politics, liberal democracy’s role in Jewish safety, Jewish political “homelessness,” and the inclusion of anti-Zionist Jews.

Ultimately, the conversation models a deeply Jewish tradition of debate, machloket l’shem shamayim, while emphasizing unity, responsibility, and the need to continue investing in community and the next generation.

Topics Include:

Trading ideas on whether anti-Zionism is a form of modern antisemitism
The responsibility of rabbis to address West Bank settler violence and Jewish extremism
References to Baruch Goldstein and the Cave of the Patriarchs massacre as a moral comparison
The role of Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran in shaping Jewish security concerns
The influence of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter/X on Israel narratives
Criticism of language like “apartheid” in discussions about Israel and Palestine
The symbolism of the watermelon flag in pro-Palestinian activism
Gavin Newsom and his appearance on Pod Save America
The importance of protecting liberal democracy for Jewish safety in America
Failures in Jewish education, including overreliance on programs like Birthright Israel
The role of JCCs (Jewish Community Centers) and synagogues in strengthening Jewish life
The need for machloket l’shem shamayim (debate for the sake of heaven) in shaping the Jewish future

A special thanks to our partners on this episode:

Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies

Crown Family Philanthropies

https://crownfamilyphilanthropies.org/

Jim Joseph Foundation

https://jimjosephfoundation.org/

Mentioned In The Episode:

Why Don’t Jews Proselytize?

Conversion History

The Converso: Jews converting to Christianity in Spain and Portugal in the 1300s

Ruth: The First Jewish Convert

How Many Jews Are In The World?

The Jewish Birthrate

Jewish Intermarriage Rates

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (U.S. Public Health Service)

American’s Religious Engagement Stays Low

Global “Wellness” Business Grows to $6.8 Trillion

Jewish Prayers and Their Meanings

How to Become Jewish

Sharon Brous Instagram

Rabbi David Ingber

IKAR

Romemu

'My mother cried out one last time': Palestinian boy, 12, describes how Israeli forces killed his family in car

Surveillance soldiers charge sexism a factor in their Oct. 7 warnings being ignored

Who was Baruch Goldstein? Massacre in Hebron

Silence is not solidarity: Diaspora Jews must speak when Israel strays

What is Cheshbon Hanefesh?

Pogroms

Wave of settler attacks against Palestinian herders reported in central West Bank

Fourth suspect arrested over Jewish charity ambulance arson attack

The Importance of Tochachah-Rebuke

Anti-Trump rallies hit thousands of US cities for 'No Kings' protest

Explosion rocks Amsterdam Jewish school in what mayor says is ‘targeted attack’ against Jewish community

As A Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us

Newsom ramps up his criticism of Israel, accuses Netanyahu of leading Trump into war with Iran

Horseshoe Theory in American Politics

The Z Word: Reclaiming Zionism

Protocols of the Elders of Zion

Venezuelan VP: US attack capturing Maduro has 'Zionist undertones'

Renee Good was shot in the head, autopsy commissioned by her family finds

Why watermelons are a symbol of Palestinian solidarity

Israeli opposition members shout at Netanyahu as he tries to address parliament

Early History of Israel

What Is Tikkun Olam?

How to Teach the Jewish Story

Svalbard Global Seed Vault

The Valley of Dry Bones and the Resurrection of the Dead

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) Facebook

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) Executive Director Rachael Fried

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 02:00:00 -0700

In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, host Jonah Platt sits down with Rachael Fried, the Executive Director of JQY (Jewish Queer Youth). Rachael shares her personal journey from being a closeted Orthodox participant to leading the organization, which now operates a professional center in New York's Times Square with a $2 million budget. JQY serves as a vital mental health nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 13–23) from "historically non-accepting communities," specifically those from Orthodox, Sephardi, Mizrahi, and Russian-speaking backgrounds.

The discussion covers the critical safety risks facing these teens, including suicide and homelessness, and the creative "guerrilla marketing" JQY employs to reach youth in insular environments where internet access is restricted. Fried addresses the intersection of queer identity and Halakha (Jewish law), referencing Leviticus 18:22 and the principle of Elu v’Elu to advocate for the healthy coexistence of religious and queer identities. Finally, she highlights JQY’s national expansion through virtual drop-in centers, a mobile app, and a national Jewish queer book club.

Topics Include:

They discuss the scale of need (potentially hundreds of thousands)
The episode addresses high-risk factors for queer Jewish youth, including increased rates of suicide, homelessness, and addiction.
The discussion explores barriers to information for youth using "kosher phones" or restricted internet in ultra-Orthodox communities.
Rachael explains how religious texts are often used to justify cultural homophobia beyond the literal interpretation of the law.
The Jewish principle of "Elu v’Elu" (both these and those) is highlighted as a core philosophy for holding both queer and Jewish identities as true.
Student activism surrounding a queer club at Yeshiva University
The cultural dimensions of halakha-based rejection
Getting in-contact with the organization if you aren’t in New York City

Mentioned In The Episode:

Rachael Fried Instagram

LGBTQ+ Jewish Demographic Pew Stud

Turning it over in the Torah

Jewish Queer Book Club JQY

Ruth Bader Ginsberg

JQY Drop In

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Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

LIVE FROM SAN DIEGO! Rabbis Sharon Brous (IKAR) & David Ingber (Romemu/92NY)

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0700

At this live “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” event in San Diego, supported by Schusterman Family Philanthropies, Crown Family Philanthropies, and the Jim Joseph Foundation, Jonah Platt welcomes two influential spiritual leaders: Rabbi Sharon Brous, founding rabbi of IKAR in Los Angeles, and David Ingber, founding rabbi of Romemu in New York. Together, they explore how their egalitarian, non-denominational communities are reimagining synagogue life by emphasizing spiritual aliveness, engaging prayer, and social justice.

Brous and Ingber speak candidly about the challenges of leading “big tent” communities in a deeply polarized time, where congregants often expect rabbis to mirror their views, and leave when they don't. Brous discusses transforming sermons into collective responsibility and action, while Ingber critiques what he calls a more consumer-driven performative Judaism, shaped by convenience rather than commitment. Drawing on experience from the Women’s March controversy through the aftermath of October 7th, they examine what it means to lead with integrity when every word carries weight.

The conversation also grapples with enduring questions at the heart of Jewish life: the role of prayer, the tension between universal values and particular Jewish obligation, and the importance of humility and patience in leadership. Against the backdrop of rising antisemitism and growing political divisions around Israel and America, this episode looks at what Jewish leadership demands and what the Jewish community can become in this moment of urgency and change.

This is Part One of a Two-Part conversation.

In the episode, they discuss:

The founding visions behind IKAR and Romemu
How Brous and Ingber are reimagining synagogue life
The rabbinical role in modern society
Silence from progressive allies following October 7th
Rabbi David Ingber’s experience confronting Tamika Mallory and Louis Farrakhan
The concept of “raising flawed flags”
The Talmudic story of Kamtza and Bar Kamtza
Balancing universalism and particularism through Torah teachings
The pressure to respond instantly on social media versus engaging in thoughtful reflection

A special thanks to our partners on this episode:

Crown Family Philanthropies

Jim Joseph Foundation

Mentioned In The Episode:

Rabbi Sharon Brous Instagram

Rabbi David Ingber

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Webby Award

BJJP: Religious Communicators Council Award: Best Audio Visual Program

BJJP: 2025 W3 Award Winner: Best Podcast Host

David Rittberg

IKAR

Romemu

Columbia students criticize University’s handling of antisemitism at federal civil rights listening session

Remembering Jesse Jackson

Kamtza and Bar Kamtza

Brooklyn Yeshivas Circa 1937 Part I

What Is Kabbalat Shabbat?

Women First Marched to Challenge Trump. Now They Are Challenging Each Other

Tamika D. Mallory Instagram

Louis Farrakhan

Genesis 18:22-33

Judaism is About Love by Rabbi Shai Held

What Did the People Hear at Mount Sinai?

Gazing Into the Digital Face of Levinas: The Ethics of Self and Other in Cyberspace

NYC bill allowing protest ‘buffer zones’ around houses of worship passes with veto-proof majority

Antisemitic mob descends on historic NYC synagogue — urging the ‘resistance’ to ‘take another settler out’

Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger

Zohran Mamdani has no opinion on a united Ireland. That matters more than you think

Horseshoe Theory in American Politics

Governor Gavin Newsom

American Jews May Be Moving Right

The Purim Story

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Ms. Rachel draws ire over appeals for Gazan children

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

The Ms. Rachel Monologue & The 22-Hour Jew, Trans TV Writer Our Lady J

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 02:10:00 -0700

She converted to Judaism yesterday! Jonah Platt interviews transgender activist, Emmy-nominated TV writer-director (Transparent, American Horror Story, Pose), and musician Our Lady J (Yona Speidel), less than 24 hours after she formally converted to Judaism. She describes her 12-year path, the beit din with three rabbis, her written reflection on Isaiah 56 and intersex identity, her mikvah immersion, and why she chose the Hebrew name Yona. She recounts growing up in a Mennonite household, losing trust in organized religion amid homophobia during the AIDS crisis, and later returning to spirituality through Judaism. The conversation addresses unconscious antisemitism, queer-community susceptibility to “they” conspiracies, and rising antisemitism in LGBT spaces after October 7. She discusses BDS (The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement) pressure on Transparent, later learning German courts found BDS antisemitic, and argues for fact-based definitions of Zionism, while saying she is pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli.

Topics discussed include:

The emotional experience of completing the Beit Din and mikvah after a 12-year spiritual journey
Guidance from three rabbis during the conversion process
The significance of Isaiah 56 and its message welcoming eunuchs, and those who might not have a binary identity of sex or gender
Growing up in an ex–Old Order Mennonite Christian background and early perceptions of Jews
The evolution of Lady J’s identity through names like Justin, Jonah, and Yona, and their biblical significance
Influence of Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, pioneer of trans medicine in Berlin (1909), on understanding antisemitism and queer history
How Nazi book burnings in the 1930s destroyed Hirschfeld’s research at the Institute of Sexology
The intersection of antisemitism, transphobia, and homophobia throughout European and modern history
The rise of antisemitism within the LGBTQ community following October 7 and shifting attitudes toward Israel
Lady J’s experience working on Transparent (Amazon Prime Video)
Referencing activist Larry Kramer and ACT UP in discussions of queer organizing and Zionist parallels
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on spiritual reflection, including cross-country travel and research in Berlin archives
Jewish values of perseverance illustrated through Torah learning, including lessons about continuing even when struggling

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

Jewish Communal Fund

MENTIONS

Why Is Everyone Talking About Ms. Rachel Right Now?

YouTube star Ms. Rachel should be investigated for spreading Hamas propaganda

Who is the Bibas family?

In the Sudan sick and starving children continue to waste away

Violations against children have tripled in the Congo

Russia’s kidnapping of Ukrainian children

Iranian children killed by Iranian security forces in crackdown of protests

12 Israeli Druze children killed in Hezbollah rocket attack

Lady J First day of Judaism post

Our Lady J’s Film and TV Credits

The Mikvah

The Beit Din (Rabbinic Court) and Conversion

Rabbi Iggy

‘Transparent’ Writer Our Lady J: Hollywood ‘Needs to Put Stories Into the Hands of Trans People’

What is intersex?

What is a eunuch in the Bible?

Mennonite History

Snapshots of an Epidemic: An HIV/AIDS Timeline

Lady Chablis

Queer Jews Forced into a Different Closet: Antisemitism and Conditional Acceptance

“Through Science to Justice”: The Story of Magnus Hirschfeld, a Gay Jewish Trailblazer

Lady J Zionism Instagram post

The TV series Transparent

Germany Declares: BDS is Antisemitic

Miller Intro to Judaism

Jay Sanderson BJJP Episode

Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh, Mandana Dayani, and Matthew Nouriel BJJP Episode

Jonah and the Whale - Bible Story Meaning

Jacob Wrestles with the Angel

Is MAGA really pro-Israel?

The Holiday You’ve Never Heard Of: Why Shmini Atzeret Matters

Why Are Grasshoppers (Locusts) Kosher for Some Jews?

What’s So Wrong with Mixing Wool & Linen?

Ask the Expert: Kosher Wine and Kosher Mevushal Wine

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

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Three synagogue attacks in Toronto in one week.

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Jonah Does CNN and KIND Founder Daniel Lubetzky

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0700

Jonah interviews Daniel Lubetzky, Mexican-American Jewish founder of KIND, Shark Tank investor, and longtime bridge-builder, about how his Holocaust-survivor father and Mexican Jewish upbringing shaped his commitment to connecting communities. Lubetzky describes mourning his father, saying Kaddish, and launching both KIND and the OneVoice Movement the same year, crediting prayer and purpose with keeping him grounded. He explains PeaceWorks, a trade-based social enterprise linking Israelis and Arabs (and later other conflict regions), which succeeded in sustaining relationships but never scaled and ultimately closed. He recounts OneVoice’s effort to empower moderates against media-driven extremism, mobilizing nearly a million Israelis and Palestinians, yet falling short of ending the conflict. Lubetzky outlines his latest project, the Builders Movement, and its “builders vs. destroyers” framework, its education, media, and civics work, and argues kindness is strong, honest action.

Lubetzky reflects on the impact of reciting Kaddish after his father’s death and how Jewish ritual shaped his worldview.
The founding story behind KIND Bars and why Lubetzky named the company after his father’s values.
Lubetzky’s first social enterprise PeaceWorks, connecting Israelis, Palestinians, Jordanians, Egyptians, and Turks through trade.
How PeaceWorks also operated in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and Chiapas, Mexico to foster cooperation across conflict lines.
The creation of the OneVoice Movement, which mobilized nearly 1 million Israelis and Palestinians around shared peace principles.
Why Lubetzky believes media narratives often amplify extremists instead of moderates in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Launching the Builders Movement, a global initiative promoting cooperation over division.
The Builders Movement framework built around the “Four Cs”: Curiosity, Compassion, Creativity, and Courage.
Educational partnerships with institutions such as Stanford University to promote builder-mindset leadership programs.
Collaboration with leaders like Van Jones to strengthen alliances between Jewish and Black communities.

Thank you to this episode's sponsor:

Jewish Communal Fund

Mentioned In The Episode:

Blast Outside Begum Synagogue

Arrests made in Norway Synagogue attack

San Jose pedestrians attacked in hate crime

Police Arrest Suspect in Ramat Gan Stabbing

Man, Rams Truck Into Michigan Synagogue With Over 100 Children Inside

The Story Is with Exel Michaelson

The Lead with Jake Tapper

Daniel Lubetzky

Daniel Lubetzky on Shark Tank

Camp Ramah

PeaceWorks Foundation

Van Jones BJJP Episode

Dachau

KIND Snacks

Jason Alexander BJJP Episode

The History, Significance, and Meaning of Kaddish

Al Jazeera Propagates Hatred. Is it also a Foreign Agent?

Annapolis Peace Conference (2007)

1993 Oslo Accords

Kind Creates the Kind Foundation to Help Foster Kinder and Healthier Communities

Save Your Relationships! How To Talk to Antizionist Loved Ones About Israel - Jonah Platt’s 5 C's

Lubetzky Family Foundation

Builders Movement

Builders on Instagram

Builders on YouTube

Jewish Neighborhoods: Mexico City

Mexican school merger will expand ORT’s presence in Latin America

Marc Platt BJJP episode

Julie Platt BJJP episode

Jewish Nobel Prize Laureates

Sebastian Maniscalco - Italians at Passover (Aren't You Embarrassed?)

Mexican Gefilte Fish

Red snapper with Veracruz-style sauce (huachinango a la Veracruzana)

The Rise and Fall of Eliot Ness

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

For Sponsorships, please email:

Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Far from the Eye, Close to the Heart: The Fascinating History of the Beta Israel Community in Ethiopia

Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

TikTok - @BeingJewish

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

On Location with Ethiopian-Jewish Chef and Restaurateur Beejhy Barhany

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 01:03:00 -0700

In this delectable episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah records on location in Harlem, New York, at Tsion Café, America’s only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant, for a conversation with owner and chef Beejhy Barhany about Ethiopian Jewish (Beta Israel) culture, food, and identity. Beejhy explains Tsion Café’s mission of bridge-building through vegan kosher cuisine and storytelling, and why she recently closed daily dining and now hosts only private events, due to years of anti-Zionist harassment, threats, and vandalism that intensified after October 7 and after becoming fully kosher. She discusses Harlem’s support, her meaning of “Zion,” and her belief that food can break barriers. Beejhy discusses Beta Israel’s unique history, questions of legitimacy, her family’s 1980–83 trek from Ethiopia to Israel, and experiences of discrimination and “conversion” pressures in Israel.

Walking through the café, Beejhy shares the venue's legacy and culinary inspirations with Jonah. The two head into the kitchen to make samosas, discuss injera, dabo, spices, and her NY Times bestselling cookbook (Gursha). During the discussion, she describes founding the BINA (Beta Israel of North America) Cultural Foundation and raising her children with multifaceted identities.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

The story of the Beta Israel Jewish community of Ethiopia and their ancient connection to Judaism.
Beejhy recounts her family’s escape from Ethiopia and years spent in Sudan before immigrating to Israel.
Discussion of major Ethiopian Jewish airlifts, including Operation Moses and Operation Solomon.
Life in immigrant absorption centers in Israel alongside newcomers from Ukraine and Russia.
The role of Tsion Cafe as a cultural hub for Ethiopian Jews and the wider Jewish diaspora.
Why Beejhy founded the Beta Israel North American Cultural Foundation (BINA) to promote Jewish diversity.
The closing of Tsion Cafe’s regular dining service due to anti-Zionist harassment following October 7.
Conversations about racism, identity, and the need for unity within the global Jewish community.
How Ethiopian cuisine, such as traditional dishes served with injera, helps build cultural bridges.
Reflections on raising multicultural Jewish children in New York City.
The importance of celebrating Jewish diversity across communities from Israel to Africa and the United States.

Thank you to our sponsors and promotional partners:

Jewish Communal Fund

Chutzpod

And a Special Thanks to our production partner on this episode: Jewish Broadcasting Services (JBS)

Mentioned In The Episode:

Beejhy Barhan Instagram

Tsion Cafe

NYC’s only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant closes after anti-Zionist harassment: ‘So much animosity’

What is a Mezuzah?

W. E. B. Du Bois

The Autobiography of Malcolm X: As Told to Alex Haley

How This New York Restaurant Is Carrying on the Legacy of the Harlem Renaissance

Charlie Parker

Redd Foxx

Art Tatum: A Talent Never to Be Duplicated

Ethiopia, the home of coffee

Ethiopian immigrants

The Queen of Sheba

The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jews and Their Journey to Israel

Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook

Operation Moses

Operation Solomon

Ethiopia’s Turbulent History

The Law of Return

Absorption Centers

Dabo (Ethiopian Bread)

Injera: Ethiopia’s Traditional Bread in Pictures and Words

Lost Tribes beer company resurrects ancient brews

Beta Israel of North American Cultural Foundation

Shop Tsion Cafe

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

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For Sponsorships, please email:

Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Advancing Jewish Athletics

Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

TikTok - @BeingJewish

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Is Israel an Ethnostate? And the 2026 Israeli Olympic Bobsled Team

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:02:00 -0800

In this inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with members of the Israeli Bobsled Team (AJ Edelman, Ward Fawarsy, Uri Zisman, Ower Katz, Itamar Shprinz, and Menashem Chen) while in competition in Milano Crotina, to discuss the unlikely journey of building a team for a Winter Olympic sport in a country with no snow. Representing Israel on the global stage, the athletes share how they transitioned from backgrounds in track and field, rugby, crossfit, and other sports into elite bobsled competitors. They discuss training and competing internationally, and navigating the challenges of representing Israel amid rising antisemitism following October 7. Their story is a wild one with robberies, getting booed, a death on a plane, and missing critical training runs.

The conversation explores patriotism, Jewish pride, and the emotional weight of wearing the Israeli flag at global events sanctioned by the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF) and the Winter Olympics. The athletes reflect on the powerful symbolism of Israeli athletes competing on the world stage and the importance of positive representation for Israel in international sports.

Jonah and AJ Edelman, captain of the Israeli Bobsled Team, get some one-on-one time to dig into the team's challenges and the role of the Israeli Olympic Committee. Edelman details self-funding, starting a nonprofit to support the team, and hopes to grow the program.

Topics Discussed Include:

Competing in sanctioned events under the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF) circuit
Qualification pathways toward the Winter Olympics
Being champion athletes from other sport disciplines
The nickname “Shul Runnings”
Having a Druze athlete on the team
Training in the U.S.-based tracks in Lake Placid, New York, and Park City, Utah
The measure of success is how far you’ve come, not how close you are to the top
The mechanics of a two-man and four-man bobsled under IBSF regulations
Putting together an “Ocean’s Eleven” team for bobsled
Funding challenges and support from the Israeli Olympic Committee
How to support the team in the future

Mentioned In The Episode:

Donate to the Israeli Bobsled Team

AJ Edelman Instagram

Ward Fawarsy Instagram

Uri Zisman Instagram

Omer Katz Instagram

Itamar Shprinz Instagram

Menachem Chen Instagram

NOT A Genocide: Jonah Platt's Definitive Takedown of the World's Favorite Anti-Jew, Anti-Israel Lie (Part 2)

Anti-Jew Libels DECONSTRUCTED-Jonah Platt Debunks 4 Lies About Israel & The Jewish People (Part 1)

The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews: Part 1

PART 2 - The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

PART 3 - The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Natan Sharansky

Natan Sharansky 3 D’s

Israel is Among a Number of Ethnostates

Myanmar casts minorities to the margins as citizenship law denies legal identity

Myanmar Rohingya: What you need to know about the crisis

Armenia is 98% Armenian Data

Koreans in Japan

UAE’s Double-Standard on Citizenship Rights

Migrant Rights in UAE and Qatar

Swiss government rejects automatic citizenship for those born in Switzerland

Citizenship through Naturalization for Aliens of Greek ethnic origin

Egypt's Christians face 'constant pressure to hide their faith'

Israel’s Right of Return

Operation Solomon

Israeli Law Declares the Country the ‘Nation-State of the Jewish People’

Jewish Calendar

Arabs Make Up 20% of the Jewish Population

Arab residents of mixed cities disadvantaged compared to Jews - Comptroller

Ben Gvir’s policy goals: Going to extremes even Europe’s far right won’t touch

Palestinian Authority: You're a "traitor" if you sell land to the Jews

What does the Hamas charter say?

Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics

Israel’s first Olympic bobsled team heads to Italy in bid they have dubbed ‘Shul Runnings’

The Israeli bobsled team is in last place but calls themselves 'victors'

Kris Horn OK after solo ride as teammates fail to get into sled

Bobsled costs are skyrocketing. Can the U.S. keep up in a bedrock Olympic sport?

Israel team marches to smattering of boos at Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony

AJ Edelman, The First Orthodox Jewish Male Olympian, Is Ready For Gold!

Meet Bat-El Gatterer, First Orthodox Jewish Female Olympian

MIT Alumnus Competes in Winter Olympics

From obese yeshivah student to Slider-Man – the remarkable run of Israel’s Olympic bobsleigh pilot

Israeli Bobsled Team's Apartment Robbed of 'Thousands of Dollars' Worth of Items During Winter Olympics Training

What To Know About ‘Shul Runnings,’ the Bobsled Team Representing Israel in the Winter Olympics

Vitaris Club

At the Olympics, Israel's athletes pay a high cost in the quest for gold

The Israeli Bobsled Team’s Withdrawal from the last day of Olympic Competition

Bobsledding for Israel

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

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Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.

Trump moves closer to a major war with Iran

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

L’Dor V’adorable is Back! And American-Israeli Cookbook Author Adeena Sussman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0800

In this delicious episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with New York Times bestselling cookbook author and Tel Aviv-based food writer Adeena Sussman for a conversation about food, culture, and the rituals of living in Israel today. Living steps from the Carmel Market, Adeena paints a vivid portrait of daily life in Tel Aviv, how Israelis continue daily routines amid rocket alarms, and what it means to compartmentalize in a country where normalcy and uncertainty coexist.

Adeena reflects on feeling like an insider-outsider as an “American Israeli,” and how the shuk itself mirrors Israel’s layered religious and cultural diversity. She shares how October 7 transformed her Shabbat cookbook tour into community-centered gatherings and fundraisers, and why she views cookbooks as narrative literature that provide cultural context. She also speaks candidly about her responsibility in culinary storytelling, documenting Yemenite, Iraqi, Moroccan, and broader Middle Eastern Jewish cuisines while crediting provenance and seeking permission for adaptations.

Jonah and Adeena also explore her path to co-authoring cookbooks with a number of chefs and celebrities including Chrissy Teigen, her Substack (including a viral post after attending Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s funeral), and the personal accountability she feels towards readers who bring her recipes into their homes. The episode covers her family history and Shabbat hospitality, including her mother Steffi’s influence, and what makes food suitable for Shabbat. Adeena introduces her upcoming cookbook “Zuriz” (“quick”), a collection of 100 one-page recipes designed for real life. This conversation doesn’t just talk about food as sustenance, but as a means of storytelling and connection.

Topics Include:

Adeena Sussman’s move from New York City to Tel Aviv
Becoming one of today’s most influential voices in Israeli cuisine
Writing Sababa and Shabbat cookbooks
Living with Chrissy Teigen and John Legend
How Israeli Elections Really Work
Writing Cookbooks That Tell a Story
Adeena Sussman’s Recipe Development Process
Learning the Roots: Respectful Research Across Middle Eastern Jewish Cuisines
Israel and California’s Abundant Local Produce
NYT Bestseller Pressure & What Stays Exclusive to the Books
Culinary influences from Mizrahi, Sephardi, and Ashkenazi traditions
Tel Aviv’s food scene and local markets like Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel)

Links to Things Mentioned in the Episode:

Adeena Sussman Instagram

Zariz Cookbook

Shabbat Cookbook

Sababa Cookbook

The Electoral System in Israel

Carmel Market

Real-time red alerts in Israel

Shielded by Fire: Middle East Air Defense During the June 2025 Israel-Iran War

Food Network's New York City Wine & Food Festival

Adeena Sussman: Came to Israel for love, stayed for food

Adeena Sussman Substack

A Stain on Israel’s Soul: Remembering Hersh Goldberg-Polin and the Beautiful Six

Tears From The Sky

Ellie Krieger

Cholent

First Tango with Mango: Iraqi Amba

Israeli produce is the best. Here’s why:

Sisters fight cancer, honor mother by rolling out the dough

Sheet Pan Latke Board

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To contact us & all things BJJP:

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Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.

Anti-Jew Libels DECONSTRUCTED - Jonah Platt Debunks 4 Lies About Israel & The Jewish People (Part 1)

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

The Genocide Libel and Comedian Modi Rosenfeld

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0800

In this delightful and hilarious episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, comedian Modi Rosenfeld opens up about faith, fame, identity, and building unity through Jewish comedy. Recently named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 10 New York Comedians, Modi discusses what it means to be a proudly Jewish comedian in today’s cultural climate, and why laughter is his path to creating what he calls “Messianic energy.”

From performing at the Comedy Cellar, the Republican Jewish Coalition, and soon Radio City Music Hall, to navigating conversations with fellow comics like Dave Chappelle and Ben Shapiro, Modi shares candid insights on comedy, politics, and Jewish pride.

He reflects on growing up Israeli in America, coming out as gay later in life, marrying his husband Leo, and supporting LGBTQ inclusion within the Orthodox community through organizations like Eshel. Modi also reveals how COVID, Zoom shows, and social media transformed his career into a global brand with audiences in Israel, Europe, and beyond.

With humor and heart, this episode explores Judaism, comedy, Israel, identity, and the power of laughter to bring people together in divided times.

Topics discussed include:

Modi Rosenfeld on being a “Jewish comedian” vs. a comedian who happens to be Jewish
Roasting Ben Shapiro at a Commentary Magazine event
Following Donald Trump at the Republican Jewish Coalition
Touring internationally in Israel, Paris, Berlin, and London
Processing October 7th and performing in Europe amid rising antisemitism
Growing up Israeli-American on Long Island
Marriage, faith, and partnership with husband Leo
Supporting LGBTQ Orthodox Jews through Eshel
Preparing for his upcoming Radio City Music Hall debut
Building a global audience via Instagram and post-COVID Zoom comedy
The meaning behind his tour title: Pause for Laughter

Mentioned In The Episode:

Modi Rosenfeld Website

Modi Rosenfeld Instagram

The reasons why what is happening in Gaza is not genocide

Amnesty International is among the NGOs bashing Israel

Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and his aid to the Nazis

B’tselem’s “broader analytical framework”

The U.N. Official Who Said Hamas is not a Terrorist Organization

The U.N. Condemned Israel 17 Times, more than the rest of the world combined

Alice Nderitu of the U.N. said Israel’s campaign in Gaza doesn’t meet the definition of genocide. She was fired.

Anyone can be a member of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, Including Cookie Monster and Emperor Palpatine

Arab countries ban Al-Jazeera

Israel distributes over 1 million polio vaccines in Gaza

Palestinian death toll passes 70,000

Defining genocide in a post WW2 world

Isreal’s critics rewrite the definition of genocide

Hineni Society Event with World-Renowned Comedian Modi

David Attel Instagram

Jeff Ross Instagram

Jerry Seinfeld Instagram

Chris Rock

Who are the classic Catskill Comedians

Old Jewish Catskill Comedian's Classic Jokes

The Messianic Era

Release of latest Epstein files unleashes online wave of antisemitic conspiracies

Modi | Know Your Audience (Full Comedy Special)

Q&A | Comedian Modi Is Running on ‘Moshiach Energy’

What Are Tefillin?

The Gestapo: Overview

Jewish comedian Modi Rosenfeld, a mainstay for Orthodox audiences, is gay. So what?

The Comedy Cellar

Ben Shapiro Roasted By MODI

Dave Chappelle Mocks “I Stand With Israel”

Dave Chappelle and the Space Jews

Jon Carhart

Republican Jewish Coalition

U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson

Orthodox Judaism and LGBTQ Issues

Eshel

Ritual Hand Washing Before Meals

What is Chabad?

A New Light

Fran Liebowitz

Modi Rosenfeld, Gay Jewish Comedian, Talks ‘Moshiach’ Energy, Celebrating Shabbat and Comparisons to Robin Williams and Richard Pryor

Ta’anit 22a-b: A Place in the World to Come

France reports dozens of antisemitic acts since Hamas attack

The History of Hatikvah

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Follow Being Jewish on:

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Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.

Blue Square Super Bowl ad

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

EMERGENCY MINI-POD! Behind Robert Kraft’s Blue Square Super Bowl Ad with Org President Adam Katz

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:37:00 -0800

In this special emergency episode, host Jonah Platt interviews Adam Katz, president of the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate. They discuss the purpose and strategy behind the $15 million 2026 Super Bowl ad aired by the organization, founded by Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft. The discussion covers the ad's target audience, primarily the unengaged Americans oblivious to the severity of antisemitism. Adam explains the rigorous data-driven process behind creating and testing the ad and addresses varying reactions and criticisms from the Jewish community.

The episode also explores the effectiveness and future direction of the organization’s campaign to combat Jewish hate, emphasizing the importance of allyship and broader community action.

Topics include:

The Super Bowl Ad: Goals and Target Audience
The Creative Process Behind the Ad
Testing and Refining the Ad
Addressing Criticisms and Reactions
The Importance of Allyship and Audience Targeting
Measuring the Impact of the Campaign
The Blue Square Initiative
Evolution of the Organization and Messaging
What it means to actively participate in fighting Jewish hate

Mentioned in the episode:

Robert Kraft and the Kraft Group

Blue Square Alliance Jewish Hate Data

Other Blue Square ads

Gen Z & Anti-Jew Hate

Freedom to Marry

Sharing Blue Square on Social Media

Request a Blue Square Pin

Black Unity Event

Davos Blue Square Pins

Van Jones Wearing Blue Square on CNN

GLAAD Association

Shift from Combat Hate/Antisemitism to BSA

BSA Super Bowl Commercial 2025 Snoop Dogg and Tom Brady

"Tony" 2023 Swastika Painted on the Garage

Isaiah BSA Spot

What's Up With Hate Instagram

When There Are No Words Ad

Being Jewish: Discussing When There Are No Words

Stand Up To Jewish Hate Instagram

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

TikTok - @BeingJewish

Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.

Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Antizionist Libels & Iranian-Jewish Activists Mandana Dayani, Matthew Nouriel & Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0800

In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Jewish Iranian advocates, Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh of American Jewish University, Mandana Dayani of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, and Matthew Nouriel of JIMENA - Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa, whose families fled persecution by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), offering an urgent and deeply personal look at life under the Iranian regime. The conversation exposes how the IRGC functions not just as a military force, but as an ideological and economic power structure responsible for widespread human rights abuses, political repression, and global terrorism. The guests share personal stories about living under the threat and surveillance of the IRGC.

The episode explores the Iranian regime’s hostility toward Israel, the Jewish community, and the West, while drawing clear distinctions between the Iranian people and their government. Jonah and his guests discuss how the IRGC funds proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, destabilizing the Middle East and exporting violence far beyond Iran’s borders. The conversation also highlights the challenges refugees face when seeking asylum in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and the importance of educating Western audiences about Iran’s internal resistance movements. Ultimately, the episode is a call to awareness, urging listeners to recognize the human cost of extremism and stand with those fighting for freedom, and truth.

Topics Include:

Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its role in Iran
Political repression and surveillance in Iran
Iranian refugees seeking asylum in the United States and Canada
IRGC funding of Hamas and Hezbollah
Iran’s anti-Israel ideology and antisemitism
Distinguishing the Iranian people from the Iranian regime
Iranian opposition movements and internal resistance
Terrorism exported by Iran across the Middle East
The impact of October 7 on Iranian dissidents worldwide
Western media narratives about Iran and the IRGC
Jewish solidarity with persecuted communities under authoritarian regimes

Mentioned In The Episode:

Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Tarlan Rabizadeh Instagram

Matthew Nouriel Instagram

Mandana Dayani Instagram

Brandolini’s Law

Availability Heuristic

Inattention Blindness

Dhimmi Under Muslim Rule

Israel is not an Apartheid State

Are Jews White?

Infant Death During the Hamas Attack on Israel

'They just kept killing': Eyewitnesses describe deadly crackdown in Iran

What Led to the 1979 Iranian Revolution?

Over 36,500 killed in Iran's deadliest massacre, documents reveal

The expulsion of Jews from Arab countries and Iran – an untold history

First Persian Female Rabbi Finds Her Voice

Miller Intro to Judaism

The Battle for Sheikh Jarrah

Why Iranian women are burning their hijabs after the death of Mahsa Amini

“Women, Life, Freedom” a new revolutionary era in Iran

LGBT Rights in Iran

Speaking Up - United Nations Special Session on Oct. 7th: Mandana Dayani

ADL and JLens Urge Accountability Regarding Huda Kattan's Antisemitic Remarks

Huda Beauty faces boycott campaign over founder’s Iran protest video

Rediscovering the Lost Tribes and God’s Faithfulness: The Jewish Diaspora and Aliyah

Iranian Diaspora Collective

How Ancient Persians Essentially Saved Judaism As We Know It Today

Why Are We So Silent About the Uprising in Iran?

Leading Change: How Persian and Jewish Diasporas Can Unite against Antisemitism

I came to Israel for Pride. It got canceled.

Matthew Nouriel, The Empress Mizrahi

American Jewish University

Report Shows Foreign-Born Citizens Are More Socially Conservative Than Their Native-Born Counterparts and Are Less Likely to Identify with Either Political Party

Matthew Nouriel, Community Engagement Director JIMENA

Sephardim, Mizrachim in NY more conservative, less likely to intermarry than peers, per UJA study

Ayatollah Khomeini returns to Iran

The Ironies of History: The Ukraine Crisis through the Lens of Jewish History

Jimmy Carter, blamed by many Iranians for the revolution, dies at 100

The Fascinating History and Political Lives of Jews in Iran

Jewish students assaulted, threatened and harassed at UCLA campus

Education Department opens second investigation into Yale antisemitism

Iran-Iraq War

HIAS

United States Holocaust Memorial Council (Board of Trustees)

Steven Wise Temple

German Jews' Passports Declared Invalid

Expulsion to cultural integration: 500 years of Sephardic Jews in Türkiye

Did Ezra Reconstruct the Torah or Just Change the Script?

Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh Named American Jewish University’s VP for Jewish Engagement

Jay Sanderson BJJP

Persian Gondi on Fridays

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Red Tent Fund Facebook

Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

TikTok - @BeingJewish

Jewish Values + Reproductive Rights with The Red Tent Fund CEO Allison Korman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0800

Host Jonah Platt interviews Allison Tombros Korman, the founder and executive director of the Red Tent Fund, a national abortion fund rooted in Jewish values. The conversation spans Korman's personal and professional journey, including her experiences with antisemitism in progressive spaces post October 7th, that led her to being forced out of her job at the DC Abortion Fund and eventually establishing the Red Tent Fund. They discuss the fund's mission to support abortion seekers through a Jewish lens, the impact of Roe v. Wade's overturning, misconceptions about third-trimester abortions, and the controversial 'Fund Abortion, Not War' campaign.

The Red Tent Fund operates by providing money directly to clinics to aid any abortion seeker regardless of religion or political affiliation, reflecting values of bodily autonomy, compassion, and community care.

Discussed

The Birth of the Red Tent Fund (Jewish Values, Access for All)
The Purpose of Abortion Funds
The Intent and Framework of Reproductive Justice
The Jewish Perspectives on Abortion, As Interpreted by Rabbis and Scholars
Challenges and Realities of Abortion Access
Fund Abortion, Not War: A Controversial Movement
Why People Must Travel Across State Lines for Reproductive Health
The Research of medical Sociologist Katrina Kimport, PhD, on Why People Get Third Trimester Abortions
The Intersection of Abortion Rights and Anti-Israel Sentiments

Mentioned In The Episode:

Red Tent Fund

Red Tent Fund Instagram

Donate to Red Tent Fund

DC Abortion Fund

Antisemitism and the DCAF

Allison Tombros Korman Tablet Magazine Article

Tablet Magazine

Roe v. Wade

DCAF on Abortion Fund

Restorative Justice

Michal Cotler-Wunsh

Michal-Cotler Wunsh Being Jewish Episode

Antisemitism and Antizionism in Reproductive Health

What is the Red Tent Fund?

Planned Parenthood

National Abortion Hotline

Jewish Perspective on Red Tent Site

Parashat Mishpatim

Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance

Red Tent Partners

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

Tikkun Olam

U.S. Abortion Rights by State

How much does an abortion cost?

Data on Third Trimester Abortions

Katrina Kimport

Fund Abortion Not War

Black Women and Reproductive Justice

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

For Sponsorships, please email:

Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

TikTok - @BeingJewish

*Correction: In the episode The Red Tent Fund is described as the first National Jewish Abortion Fund. The National Council of Jewish Women's (NCJW) Jewish Fund for Abortion Access was the first national Jewish abortion fund, launched in 2022.

Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

My Most Important Monologue, Part 3 of 3 (The Jeremiah Effect) and Bishop Michael J. Fisher

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:10:00 -0800

In this compelling episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Bishop Michael J. Fisher, a prominent Los Angeles faith leader and longtime advocate for Black–Jewish solidarity. The discussion explores Bishop Fisher’s personal journey, deeply influenced by his father, Reverend W. Jerome Fisher, a World War II medic who helped liberate Jews from the Dachau concentration camp. Jonah and Bishop Fisher dig deeply into the real actions Fisher is doing to build bonds and bridges between the black and Jewish communities, and their shared perspective on what advocacy truly means.

Bishop Fisher reflects on building interfaith relationships with leaders such as Rabbi Stewart Vogel and Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback, and on the shared spiritual foundations of Judaism and Christianity, including the meaning of Zion. The discussion also addresses rising antisemitism, the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, and the responsibility of moral leadership in moments of crisis.

The episode highlights initiatives like the Freedom Seder and the From Compton to Jerusalem trip, celebrating Israel’s diversity and the Ethiopian Jewish community, while offering a hopeful vision of unity grounded in building relationships, and discovering truth.

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Bishop Michael J. Fisher on growing up in Compton under the influence of his father, Reverend W. Jerome Fisher
His church, The Greater Zion Church Family
A firsthand family connection to the Holocaust through World War II liberation efforts
The spiritual and historical meaning of Zion in Black Christianity and Judaism
Building Black–Jewish alliances with Rabbi Stewart Vogel and Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback
The examples of people like Van Jones, Amanda Berman, and Robert Stearns in interfaith bridge-building
How the Freedom Seder creates shared Jewish and Black communal space
Understanding antisemitism vs. anti-Zionism after the October 7 Hamas attacks
Why Israel’s diversity challenges apartheid narratives
Lessons from the From Compton to Jerusalem leadership trip to Israel
Experiencing the Sigd holiday with the Ethiopian Jewish community (Beyte Israel)
Advocacy vs. performative allyship in Black and Jewish communities
Why Black–Jewish unity remains essential for social justice in America

Mentioned In the Episode:

Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Michael J Fisher Instagram

Jonah’s (shoes) JP x Air Maccabees (18% off with the code JP18)

The Story of Jeremiah

Seeing History Through A Foggy Lens

Dangers of Exceptionalism

Moral Self Licensing

Temporal Distance and Discrimination

Greater Zion Church Family

Origins of Black History Month

Freedom Seder LA Brings Together Black, Jewish, and Black-Jewish Leaders for an Evening of Unity and Liberation

CNN’s Van Jones

Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback

Exodus Over Dinner

Jerome Fisher World War II Gold Star Veteran from Maryland

Reverand Jerome Fisher Passes Away, Organized 1st Black Church in Compton

What Was Jim Crow

Michael J. Fisher How One Compton Pastor’s Work is Changing Lives by Bridging Health & Faith

The Jewish Foundation of Christianity

When did Christianity and Judaism Separate?

When Did Jesus Stop Being Jewish?

Zion: God’s Precious Possession

Dr. Maulana Karenga

A Long History: American Jews and the NAACP

The Tulsa Race Massacre and Oklahoma’s Jews

10 Great Moments of #BlackJewishUnity

Challenging the myth of 'white, colonial' Israel

Rabbi Stewart Vogel

Death of George Floyd

Powerful Voices: A New Look at the Rabbi Who Marched with Martin Luther King

Tiffany Haddish BJJP Episode

The 15 Year Battle for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event — Australian police

Suspect arrested in predawn fire that left parts of Mississippi’s largest synagogue in charred ruins

What to know about the murder of Sarah Pilgrim and Aaron Lischinsky in Washington D.C

Stephen Wise Temple

Wise hosts Greater Zion Church for joint Shavuot and Pentecost celebration

Was Jesus’ Last Supper a Seder?

Peter and the Disciples Falling Asleep - Matthew 26:40

The Old Testament Pentecost: Why Did Jesus Pour Out His Spirit on This Particular Day?

Robert Sterns

BLM’s Support of Hamas Is Perfectly in Line With Its Goals

Rediscovering the Lost Tribes and God’s Faithfulness: The Jewish Diaspora and Aliyah

Israel’s Ethnic Diversity: Why the Population of the Jewish Nation is Far From Monolithic

Amanda Berman

Black and Jewish people were allies once. Can they be again?

Martin Luther King Jr. Assassination

Redlining of Jewish Neighborhoods to Make It Difficult to Get a Mortgage

Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience Fact Sheet

Seder2015 streams a digital Passover

What is the law of first mention?

Black leaders journey from their hip-hop home to the Holy Land — and find common ground

What Even IS Sigd? A Short Explainer

Nick Cannon opens up about past antisemitic comments and his ‘growth moment’

April Powers

California schools inch closer to rescuing mental health funds slashed by Trump

Global Missions — Greater Zion

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Merchandise

To contact us & all things BJJP:

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Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

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My Most Important Monologue, Part 2 of 3 (Antizionism) & Israeli Oz Party Leader Dr. Einat Wilf

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 01:56:00 -0800

In this essential episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Israeli public intellectual, former Knesset member, and political strategist Dr. Einat Wilf about Israel’s political future in the wake of October 7th. Wilf argues that Israel has reached a historic inflection point — one that requires shedding what she calls a lingering “diaspora consciousness” and fully embracing permanent, sovereign thinking.

Drawing on decades of scholarship and public service, Wilf challenges many of the assumptions that have shaped Israeli politics and peace efforts. She explains why the conflict cannot be resolved through ambiguity or process alone, why ideology — not borders — has been the central obstacle to peace, and why international frameworks have repeatedly failed to reckon with Jewish self-determination. From critiques of institutions like UNRWA to hard questions about national service, governance, and borders, Wilf calls for a renewed Israeli social contract rooted in responsibility, realism, and permanence.

This episode is a rigorous exploration of sovereignty, accountability, and political maturity, offering listeners a clear vision of what it would mean for Israel and the Jewish people to stop thinking provisionally, and start acting like a nation that fully believes it is here to stay.

Topics include:

Understanding Israel's Political System
Founding the Oz Party
Arab Zionism
Clarifying Borders
Strengthening the Knesset
Service to the State and Belonging in Israel
From Diaspora Consciousness to Sovereign Conduct
Separation of Shul and State
Worthy Leadership and Women in Politics
The Oz Party's Vision and Strategy
Appealing to a Diverse Audience
UNRWA and Palestinian Relationship and Legacy

Thank you to this episode’s sponsor SAPIR.

https://sapirjournal.org/BeingJewish

Mentioned in this Episode:

Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Einat Wilf Instagram

Einat Wilf X

International Authors Call For Ban of Israeli Authors

A Call For Israeli Athletes to be Banned

Has Zionism Become a Bad Word

The Jewish Enemy

Origins of the Medieval Myth about the Jewish Drinking the Blood of Children

Movement Against Antizionism

Associated Press’s Coverage of Israel

Why Israel’s Conflicts are Covered So Much More Than Other Countries

Shaul Kelner’s Article On Antizionism as a Mass Movement in The U.S.

Shaul Kelner

Early 20th Century Soviet Anti Zionism

Jewish UCLA Student Blocked By Protesters

Amnesty International Suspends Its Israeli Branch

US Coffee House Refuses to Serve Jews

Why I Founded the Oz Party

Eretz Israel

How do Israeli Politics Work?

Yesh Atid

The Work of the Knesset

Dr. Einat Wilf: 'We lied to ourselves about the Palestinians'

Peace in the Middle East? The first thing that needs to happen is the destruction of the ideology at the heart of Palestinian identity.

5 Facts About the Jewish People's Ancestral Connection to the Land of Israel

UNRWA Exposed, Examining the Agency’s Mission and Failures

Ministers reportedly decide to keep Rafah Crossing shut, bucking US pressure amid anger over Board of Peace

Separation of Shul and State

In Conversation with Einat Wilf on a New Israeli Vision

Who Is the Wicked Son?

Who Are the Haredim?

Statement on the Death of Yahya Sinwar

Only 7% of Israeli Arabs define themselves as 'Palestinian'

‘We’d rather die than enlist’: Haredi Jews vow to defy conscription

The Judicial Overhaul Post October 7

The State of Israel as a Jewish State

'Haredi schools need to meet minimum standards'

13 Political Parties and Democracy: The Israeli Case

Campaign Financing in Israel

Einat Wilf: ‘Jews Are Never Allowed To Win, and Arabs Are Never Allowed to Lose’

We Should All Be Zionists Podcast

Einat Wilf Books (Amazon)

Israel: A Democracy Like No Other in the Middle East

The United Nations Korean Reconstruction Agency

O-zionist to Allow People to Mobilize Israeli Friends

The Collapse of the Soviet Union

The Iranian Revolution, 40 Years On: Oppression at Home, Aggression Abroad

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

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To contact us & all things BJJP:

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Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

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My Most Important Monologue (Part 1 or 3) and Entertainment Icon Howie Mandel

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0800

In this energetic and wide-ranging episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with comedy and television icon Howie Mandel (America’s Got Talent, Deal or No Deal, Gremlins, St. Elsewhere) for a conversation that moves effortlessly between laughter and reflection. From his early days as a stand-up comic to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in television, Howie reflects on a career that has spanned more than four decades, and the values that have grounded him throughout it.

With trademark honesty and humor, Howie opens up about his Jewish upbringing, family life, and how Jewish values have shaped his worldview both onstage and off. The conversation also takes a more serious turn as Howie speaks candidly about the resurgence of antisemitism, the aftermath of October 7th, and what it has felt like to navigate Jewish identity in an increasingly hostile global climate. Thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly moving, this episode offers a rare glimpse into how one of comedy’s most familiar figures navigates faith, fear, and responsibility to show up when it matters most.

Topics Discussed Include:

Howie’s Jewish upbringing in Toronto
How comedy became a creative outlet and coping mechanism for anxiety and OCD
The influence of Howie’s father on his Jewish values and identity
Howie’s early years doing stand-up
Howie’s opinion on tzedakah
Why Israel struggles with public perception
Jewish identity and visibility in a time of rising antisemitism
Howie speaks out about injustice and intolerance
Pro-Palestinian vs. Anti-Israel movements: understanding the difference
Howie on NBC, Hollywood, and Jewish representation
Jews being targets for their appearance outside of NY and LA
Howie’s goal, “I just wanna do the right thing.”

Thank you to this episode's sponsors The Dream Raffle and SAPIR.

https://sapirjournal.org/BeingJewish

Mentioned In The Episode:

Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews

Ultimate Nite Out Featuring Debra Messing and Jonah Platt

Watch America’s Got Talent (NBC)

Howie Mandel Instagram

Howie Mandel Website

Howie Mandel Does Stuff (YouTube)

What You Need to Know About Israel's The Iron Dome

Qatar’s Investments in the US Education System

Russia’s Interference in US Elections Continues to Get More Brazen

China’s Potential Use of TikTok Is A National Security Threat

Yuri Bezmenov and his Stages of Ideological Subversion

Israel Recognizes Somaliland as an Independent Country

“I Have a Tough Time Being with Myself.” Howie Mandel on living with OCD, ADHD, and anxiety

B’rit Mialh: The Circumcision Ritual

Howie Mandel discusses saying the Kaddish for his father

Everything You Need to Know About the Jewish Custom of Shiva

Minyan: The Congregational Quorum

Tzedakah 101

Are the Jews the Chosen People?

Meet Howie Mandel's 3 talented kids with his wife of 45 years

—2 options with regard to his in-laws being holocaust survivors—

A survivors’ love story, and a game-changing secret

Howie Mandel to Appear at Malibu Film Society

The Role of Doctors and Nurses

Myth: Jews Have Too Much Power

Why Israel is losing the PR war

Did Israel Bomb a Hospital? No. What to Know About Hamas’ Lie About a Rocket Strike on a Gaza Hospital

Collecting German Air-dropped Leaflets on Britain

Israeli film on Oct. 7 premieres at Toronto film festival after initially being dropped

Masada

Haifa

Watch Inspector Gadget (Xumo)

Haim Saban (IMDB)

Shuki Levi

Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event

Howie Mandel Ari Shaffir clip on antisemitism.

Ari Shaffir Instagram

Why Do We Wear a Kippah?

What Is Tzitzit?

Former SNL comedian Jay Pharoah says he was racially profiled by police, detained with knee on his neck

St. Elsewhere (Apple TV)

Demonstrators rally across the U.S. in response to violent conflict between Israel and Hamas

Watch Little Monsters (Pluto TV)

Dayenu

Proto Hologram

Howie Mandel Become ESports Team Owner

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Disrupting Jewish Institutions with AJU President Jay Sanderson

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0800

In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with longtime Jewish communal leader Jay Sanderson, recently appointed President of American Jewish University (AJU). Sanderson recounts a harrowing childhood marked by intense antisemitic violence while growing up in Boston public housing, including a near-fatal incident in which he was buried alive. That trauma ultimately propelled him toward a life of Jewish leadership after a transformative summer in Israel facilitated by the Jewish Agency, culminating in a pivotal childhood encounter with David Ben-Gurion.

The conversation traces Sanderson’s career running major institutions such as Jewish Federation of Los Angeles and Jewish Television Network, before turning to his vision for the Jewish future. Sanderson critiques the Jewish world’s tendency to focus narrowly on combating antisemitism rather than proactively planning for long-term vitality. This outlook led to the creation of the 2050 Institute, an initiative designed to address the lack of adequate modern training for Jewish professionals and lack of planning for the Jewish future.

Sanderson explains why he came out of retirement after October 7 to lead AJU, outlining an ambitious plan to reimagine rabbinic education, expand the Miller Introduction to Judaism program, and position AJU as a central pipeline for future Jewish leaders. Jay’s challenge for leaders of today to get off the sidelines, bring new blood and ideas forward, and actively shape what the Jewish experience should look like in 25 years.

Topics of the episode include

Jay Sanderson’s childhood trauma and antisemitism in Boston
A near-death experience and its long-term psychological impact
A formative Israel trip through the Jewish Agency
Meeting David Ben-Gurion at a kibbutz
Leadership roles at Jewish Federation of Los Angeles
The founding vision of the 2050 Institute
Sanderson becoming President of American Jewish University
Expanding the Miller Introduction to Judaism program
Reimagining the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies

Mentioned in the episode:

Jewish Federation LA

Jewish Television Network

Jewish Agency

David Ben Gurion Kibbutz

The 2050 Institute

Brandeis-Bardin Campus of American Jewish University.

Jay Sanderson: President of AJU

Eric D. Fingerhut

Miller Intro to Judaism

Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh

Camp Alonim

BCI

Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies

Tzomet Games

Aspen Institute

Jay.Sanderson@AJU.edu

Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah.

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Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

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Support the podcast by subscribing to the Kehillah.

Follow Being Jewish on:

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TikTok - @BeingJewish

HOSTAGE (2-Part Special): Eli Sharabi on Surviving 491 Days in Hamas Captivity

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:00:00 -0800

In one of the most powerful and singular conversations ever featured on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with Eli Sharabi, a survivor of 491 days in Hamas captivity. Eli joins Jonah for a two-part conversation that moves from public testimony to deeply personal reflection. The episode opens with a live, onstage discussion at a Magen David Adom gala in Miami, honoring Eli and tracing his journey from Kibbutz Be’eri to captivity and eventual freedom. It then shifts to an intimate studio conversation in Los Angeles, where Eli speaks with remarkable clarity, courage, and humanity about survival, resilience, and the inner discipline that sustained him through unimaginable psychological and physical torment. Together, Jonah and Eli explore the writing of Eli’s book Hostage, the healing power of telling his story, and the global impact of his speech at the United Nations. With profound honesty, Eli reflects on the loss of his wife Lianne, his daughters Noiya and Yahel, and his brother Yossi, and shares his ongoing mission to share his story as a testimony against terrorism, confront disinformation, and raise awareness about the truth of what happened to Hamas captives.

Topics discussed include:

Eli takes us back to October 7th, sharing what he remembers from the day his life changed forever
The unimaginable loss of Eli’s family, and how he carries their memory with him
Honoring the courage and ultimate sacrifices of Amit Mann and Avia Hetzroni from Kibbutz Be’eri
What inspired Eli to write Hostage and how putting words on the page became part of his healing
The reality of what food looked like in captivity, and what deprivation teaches you about survival
How Eli became a mentor and source of strength for Alon Ohel while they were held together
Eli reflects on meeting UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
The emotional impact of Itamar Ben Gvir’s comments
Holding onto tradition, faith, and Shabbat rituals under inhumane conditions
Inside Hamas’ psychological warfare, and how Eli resisted being broken
Rebuilding life after captivity, looking ahead, and Eli’s new mission of truth-telling and advocacy

Thank you to this episodes sponsors.

Americans for Ben-Gurion University

SAPIR

Links to items mentioned in the episode:

Eli Sharabi Instagram

“Hostage” by Eli Sharabi

Magen David Adom

I Spent 491 Days as a Hostage of Hamas. This Is My Story

Battle of Kibbutz Be’eri

2025 Magen David Adom Miami Gala: From Darkness to Light

Eli Sharabi’s United Nations address

The Heroes in the Battle of Sderot on Oct 7

The Civilian Heroes of Ofakim On Oct 7.

Nova Festival Massacre

The Be’eri Printing Press: Israel’s Print Shop

Paramedic Amit Man, 22: Sacrificed herself to protect patients.

Senior EMT Aviya Hezroni Killed by Terrorists

Hamas Steals Aid

'I choose life:' Ex-hostage Alon Ohel recounts Hamas kidnapping

Jewish Diaspora celebrates release of living hostages

Eli Sharabi’s Brother Sharon Never Stopped Fighting For Him

Eli’s first interview after his release

Eli Sharabi Meets with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer

Eli Sharabi Visits Australian Parliament

Yossi Sharabi Buried in Kibbutz Be’eri

Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir taunts Palestinian prisoners

Jachnun (Rolled Yemenite Sabbath Bread)

What Is the Kiddush?

Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event — Australian police

Former Hamas hostage Or Levy brings awareness of captives’ plight to South Africa

The Shehecheyanu Blessing

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Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

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Cindy Crawford and Noa Tishby Hanukah lighting

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Cindy Crawford: Supermodel, Super Ally

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0800

In this intimate and revealing episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, iconic supermodel and Jewish ally Cindy Crawford sits down for a rare interview with Jonah to discuss family, faith, and allyship. Known worldwide for redefining beauty and celebrity, Cindy opens up about the quieter values that have shaped her life — from her interfaith marriage to Rande Gerber to the loss of her only brother to leukemia at an early age.

Cindy shares personal stories about building a home rooted in Jewish and Protestant tradition, raising her children with an appreciation for Jewish rituals, and why speaking out against antisemitism now feels both urgent and unavoidable. She reflects on her experience working with Holocaust survivors through the Borrowed Spotlight Project, her role in preserving the cultural legacy of Nate and Al’s, and her decision to use her platform for Jewish advocacy (New Year New Voices). Jonah and Cindy also discuss the trajectory of her career, the shifting landscape of beauty standards, and what the future might look like for her.

The episode underscores Cindy's ongoing commitment to cultural empathy, allyship, and what it looks like to stand with the Jewish community not by accident or obligation, but by choice.

In this episode, Cindy and Jonah dive into:

How social media has become “poison”
Why even small acts of Jewish allyship now feel “controversial”
Growing up Protestant in the Midwest
Cindy’s first visit to Israel
Navigating a Jewish/Protestant Interfaith Marriage
Jewish traditions that resonated with Cindy
Cindy’s adult children's relationship to Jewish identity
Cindy’s participation in the Borrowed Spotlight Project
The loss of Cindy’s brother

Links to things mentioned in the episode:

Cindy Crawford Instagram

Rande Gerber

B’rit Mialh: The Circumcision Ritual

Cindy Crawford Capezio Shoot in Israel

Shabbat Elevator in Israel

Maxwell House Haggadah

Christian Congregationalism

Courtney Platt BJJP Episode

Malibu Pacific Church

Reverend David Worth

Cindy Crawford reflects on 'devastating' loss of her brother to leukemia

Cindy Crawford's 2 Children: All About Models Presley and Kaia Gerber

Rande’s Father passing

Olam Ha-Ba, The World to Come

Breaking the Glass at a Jewish Wedding

Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth

Noa Tishby BJJP Episode

Cindy Crawford “New Year New Voices” Video

Chris Caresnone (Campbell) BJJP Episode

Borrowed Spotlight Project

Bryce Thompson

Is “shiksa” a bad word?

Ella Mandel’s Story - Shoah Foundation

Displaced Persons Camps after the Holocaust

Holocaust Museum L.A. honors visionary figures at gala

Holocaust Museum LA

Jewish Global Population Data

Sebastian Maniscalco “Same corporation different divisions” joke

Cindy Crawford (and others) step in to save Nate ‘N Al’s Deli

Nate ‘N Al’s Deli

Langers Deli

Canter’s Deli

Casamigas - Cindy’s Spicy Tequila

Support the podcast by subscribing to the Kehillah.

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Joint Effort Chiropractic

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

One Mitzvah A Day with Daily Giving Founder Dr. Jonathan Donath

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:29:00 -0800

Can we change the world with just ONE dollar? In this inspiring episode of '30 Minute Mensches,' Jonah talks to Dr. Jonathan Donath, founder and president of Daily Giving, the grassroots online platform that has turned daily donations of just $1 into almost $27 million distributed to over 75 Jewish causes worldwide. Dr. Donath shares the epiphany that led him to start Daily Giving, the importance of working the daily giving “muscle”, and the organization’s growth journey. A true mensch, Dr. Donath’s appeal will have you racing to sign up so that you too can feel the joy of philanthropy, unity, and the transformative power of giving.

Discussed topics include:

The Near Death Experience of a Rabbi that Inspired Daily Giving
The Big Impact of Many Small Mitzvahs
Stories of Daily Giving’s Work
Mel Robbins and Why Immediate Action is Important
Chasing Balance in Life
Comedian Elon Gold’s Viral Moment for Daily Giving
Nonprofit Operational Challenges and Growth
Who Are Some Partner Organizations (75+) and Why

A big thank you to Daily Giving

MENTIONS

Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy

Rabbi Alon Anava and His Near Death Experience

Elon Gold Daily Giving Promo

Daily Giving Beneficiary Organizations

Mel Robbins on taking action

One Mitzvah a Day

JFNA

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Dinner Party Animal: Recipes to Make Every Day a Celebration

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Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

Unwrapping Hannukah & Food Personality Jake Cohen

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 02:38:00 -0800

It’s Hanukkah! In this cozy episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah is joined by culinary expert, social media darling, and New York Times-bestselling cookbook author Jake Cohen for a conversation about Jewish food, ritual, and the unifying power of gathering around the table. Known for zhuzhing up traditional Jewish cuisine with a distinctly modern yet reverent flair, Jake reflects on how food has become his spiritual practice and creative outlet for expressing Jewish identity.

Jake shares how hosting Shabbat dinners became his primary avenue to building community and all the celebrity pals he has welcomed to his table, from Benny Blanco to Shoshana Bean to Katie Couric to Isaac Mizrahi. He opens up about his journey from being a self-described “High Holiday Jew” to becoming a leading voice in contemporary Jewish food culture, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, hospitality, and incorporating Jewish values into everyday life.

The conversation also touches on Jake’s three best-selling cookbooks — Jew-ish, I Could Nosh and Dinner Party Animal — which aim to make Jewish cooking accessible, joyful, and inviting to Jews and non-Jews alike. Jonah and Jake explore the intersection of Jewish and queer identity, the importance of inviting dissenting opinions to your dinner table, how to host an epic dinner party, and Jake’s hopes for a more connected and peaceful future. It’s an episode filled with comfort, laughter, and the unmistakable warmth of Hanukkah.

A special thank you to this episode’s sponsor:

American Friends of the Hebrew University and the podcast The View From Mount Scopus

MENTIONS

Hanukkah Antisemitism vs. Purim Antisemitism

Hellenism and Judaism

The Surprising Origin of The Dreidel

Jonah @ The Big Shabbat

The Temple Emanu-El Streicker Center

The Big Shabbat

Joan Nathan

Adeena Sussman

Ethiopian Jewish Chef and Restaurateur Beejhy Barhany on Her New Cookbook, “Gursha”

Tsion Cafe

Jew-Ish: A Cookbook

Jake Cohen Saveur Articles

Nanny’s Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake

Tokin’ Jew Lemon Sumac x Jake Cohen

Quick Challah Recipe Demo in Under 1 Minute!

“The Nanny” Is the Kind of Celebratory, Unabashed Representation Jewish Women Deserve

Watch Curb Your Enthusiasm

I Could Nosh: Classic Jew-ish Recipes Revamped for Every Day―Modern Jewish Recipes for Everyday Noshing

Left Behind – A Project Opening up Little-Known Holocaust Histories as well as New Tools

Jews of Liège under the Occupation (1940-1944)

Jake Cohen and Benny Blanco bagel Instagram post

Curb Your Enthusiasm “Bad Middling” Scene

These New Yorkers were in Israel when the war with Iran began. Here’s how they made it home.

Which three celebrities are living together in New York?

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https://thedreamraffle.com/

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The Black American Playbook and Philosopher-journalist Bernard-Henri Lévy

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:03:00 -0800

In this thought-provoking episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with world-renowned philosopher, author, and war correspondent Bernard-Henri Lévy (known as BHL) for an insightful conversation about the meaning of Jewish solidarity after October 7th and the collapse of moral reasoning in the West. Drawing on five decades spent on the frontlines of conflicts from Bosnia to Bangladesh, Lévy reflects on the role of the witness, the fragility of democracy, and the shattering implications of October 7th.

From Hamas to ISIS, Sudan to Ukraine, BHL draws sharp parallels between the world’s genocidal movements and the West’s habit of resisting them “just enough to help the victims survive, but never enough to let them win.” Together, Jonah and BHL explore the central arguments of his new book, Israel Alone: Israel’s unprecedented isolation, the return of antisemitism dressed in the language of antizionism, and the collapse of ethical reasoning on university campuses and in public life.

BHL speaks candidly about why jihadist groups must be militarily defeated, how antisemitism differs from other forms of racism, the challenges of Jewish life in France, and why Israel’s democracy remains a modern miracle, despite being tested by decades of war.

In the episode they discuss:

Iranian Missile Attacks and Global Reactions
The Necessity of Defeating Hamas
The Defeat of Al Qaeda and Isis
BHL’s time in Afghanistan and Rwanda
The Resilience of Israeli Society
Diverse Communities in Israel
Understanding Antisemitism
Antizionism as the Only “Acceptable” Form of Modern Antisemitic
The Role of Hate in Human History
Criticism vs. Antisemitism
Sudan's Genocide and Racist War

#BernardHenriLevy #BHL #JonahPlatt #BeingJewishPodcast #IsraelAlone #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #October7 #MoralClarity #Philosophy #HumanRights #Israel #JewishPeople

Thank you to this episodes sponsor, The Dream Raffle.

Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits.

Bernard-Henri Levy Instagram

Mentioned In The Episode:

Bernard-Henri Levy YouTube

Bernard-Henri Levy Facebook

Bernard-Henri Lévy

Israel Alone

The Genius of Judaism

The Bloodlands of Africa - by Bernard-Henri Lévy

‘A very bad year’: Despite Gaza truce, academic boycotts pile on, threatening Israel’s future

Flare-Burning Protesters Disrupt Israel Philharmonic Concert in Paris, Four Arrested

US helps defend Israel from Iranian missile attack

France says it intercepted drones targeting Israel during Iran war

Israel: A Democracy Like No Other in the Middle East

Myth: Israel is an “apartheid state.”

Hamas Is Weakened But Not Defeated — The Truth Behind Gaza’s Ceasefire

Al Qaeda: Background, Current Status, and U.S. Policy

Iraqi Forces Liberate Mosul From ISIS

How Qatar became Trump’s key ally in his Middle East peace efforts

Antisemitism in America: My Campus Tour

Bernard-Henri Lévi tweet from Hostage Square

In France, Bernard-Henri Lévy fights a lonely battle on behalf of a solitary Israel

Rwanda genocide of 1994

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Jewish Traumatic Invalidation with Israeli Psychologist Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0800

Jonah hosts an insightful conversation with Israeli-American Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, a Harvard-affiliated clinical psychologist and renowned trauma expert, about her experiences growing up in Israel during times of conflict and how they shaped her career in trauma and mental health. She explains her groundbreaking work on the concept of 'traumatic invalidation' in the Jewish community after October 7th, and the importance of recognizing and addressing this community trauma on an individual level. They discuss her shift to advocacy post-October 7th, and her role with Parents for Peace, a non-profit aimed at radicalization prevention. The episode highlights the crucial need of better mental health support, both for the Jewish community and the wider population, as a means to prevent radicalization, combat hatred, and foster resilience. It provides insights on how to effectively fight hate and radicalization through a combination of education, psychological understanding, and policy change.

In the episode they discuss:

Dr. Miri Bar Halpern’s Israeli childhood during the Gulf War and Second Intifada
Her Personal Journey with Inherited Trauma
Her Groundbreaking Article on “Traumatic Invalidation” in the Jewish Community
Combating Radicalization with Parents for Peace
Our Stories Matter Podcast
Anti-Jew Hate as the Common Denominator in Radicalization
Prevention and Intervention techniques

Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits.

Miri Bar-Halpern Instagram

Mentioned in the episode:

Dr. Bar Halpern Website

Traumatic Invalidation Research Article (co-authored by Dr. Bar-Halpern)

Jonah on “Our Stories Matter” Podcast

Parents for Peace

What is the second intifada?

What are epigenetics?

Criteria of Traumatic Invalidation

Dr. Marsha Linehan

Melanie Harned

Martin Bohus

Massachusetts Teachers Association's (MTA) Anti-Israel, Anti-Jewish Resources Remain.

Head of Parents for Peace Myrieme Churchill

Nearly 40% of Jewish Medical Professional Report Exposure to Antisemitism

Trauma Informed Learning Alliance

Yasmine Mohammed

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Updated! The 5 C’s of Difficult Conversation and Superstar Dancer/Wife Courtney Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 01:48:00 -0800

In this landmark 50th episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah celebrates the milestone with his wife, Courtney Ann Platt (Glee, So You Think You Can Dance, Rock of Ages), the world-class dancer, television star, and multiple sclerosis advocate whose journey into Judaism has become a defining part of the traditions and values in their home. From growing up Italian Catholic in New York to becoming a Jewish mother raising three young Platts, Courtney opens up about the turning points that reshaped her life.

With humor and candor, Courtney and Jonah revisit the early days of their relationship, the emotional path of Courtney’s Orthodox conversion, and their commitment to blending two traditions under one roof, from negotiating Christmas celebrations to creating a home where Jewish values are woven into everyday life. Courtney also reflects on motherhood, the visceral awakening she felt after October 7th, and how becoming part of the Jewish people changed her understanding of community, resilience, and responsibility. The conversation touches on spirituality, loss, MS, and what it means to both choose and defend your identity.

This milestone episode is a celebration of love, tradition, and the family Courney and Jonah have built together. It’s an intimate look at what it means to choose Judaism, and to choose each other.

I Read Peter Beinart’s Book So You Don’t Have To and “Ace of Cakes” Duff Goldman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0800

It’s Turkey Time! In this warm and wonderfully flavorful Thanksgiving episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with Duff Goldman — celebrity pastry chef, bestselling cookbook author, Food Network Icon, and beloved host of shows like Ace of Cakes, Kids Baking Championship, Buddy vs. Duff, and Duff’s Happy Fun Bake Time. Together, they dig into the stories and traditions that shaped Duff’s life long before he became America’s favorite baker.

Duff opens up about his personal experiences with anti-Jew bigotry in New England, and how that deepened his connection to Jewish culture, family, and food. They discuss the joys and challenges of Duff’s professional achievements as a master baker, from mentoring young bakers on television to navigating the pressure of high-profile baking competitions. Duff also discusses his upcoming venture — Duff's Deli and Market, opening soon in the Atlanta airport — and his philosophy on food, tradition, and community. Duff shares heartfelt reflections on his recovery from a devastating car accident, and his commitment to tzedakah

This episode is a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the Jewish roots behind Duff’s irresistible warmth and artistry. It’s a perfect blend of heart, humor, and holiday spirit.

Topics Include:

Duff’s love of “Tzedakah”, the Jewish value of Charity
Duff’s multicultural Passover Seders & Thanksgiving Dinners
Kids Baking Championship Insights
The Birth of the iconic Charm City Cakes
Jewish-Themed Cakes and Duff's Deli
Thanksgiving Traditions and Family

This episode is supported by The Dream Raffle. Win a Jerusalem dream home!

Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits.

Duff Goldman “Tzedakah” Page

Mentioned In The Episode:

Duff Goldman Instagram

Duff Goldman Youtube

Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza by Peter Beinart

Inside the Tunnels of Gaza

The Story of Purim

When Jon Stewart and Peter Beinart Threw Isreal Under the Bus

Save A Child’s Heart

Jacqueline Winch (Duff Goldman’s Artist Mom)

Here’s Who Won the Food Network’s First Ever Hanukkah Cooking Challenge

Duff Goldman Injured in Crash Allegedly Caused by Drunk Driver

Kids Baking Championship (Hulu)

Charm City Cakes

Ace of Cakes

Duff’s Favorite Spots “Best Things I Ever Ate”

Edmart Deli Closed

Foie Grock's Chefs Bruce Kalman & Duff Goldman (YouTube)

Silver Yad

Duff’s Deli and Market - Atlanta

Japan's ancient art of taiko drumming

Japanese Koto

Manzanar War Relocation Center

Michael Voltaggio

Duff’s Food on Goldbelly

Michael Cimarusti

Russ and Daughters

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Jewish Values in Action, Helping Rwandan Genocide Orphans with JC Nkulikiyimfura

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:15:00 -0800

In this uplifting episode, Jonah speaks with Jean-Claude Nkulikiyimfura, the Executive Director of the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) in Rwanda. ASYV was founded to support orphans of the Rwandan genocide, providing a holistic education model rooted in Jewish principles like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Tikkun Ha Lev (repairing the heart). Jonah has a personal connection, having volunteered there soon after college.

Jean-Claude (JC) and Jonah discuss the Youth Village's success in preparing students for adulthood, which a recent Tulane University study highlights with impressive outcomes, including high rates of college placement and employment. The conversation covers impactful initiatives like the Inheritance Theater Project, which empowers young women, and the broader context of societal healing in post-genocide Rwanda. Jean-Claude also shares his personal experience as a refugee and details the future vision of ASYV, including the "Anything is Possible" campaign aimed at sustaining and expanding their vital mission.

The conversation covers:

The Founding and Mission of Aga Shalom Youth Village
Welcoming the Executive Director: Jean Claude's Journey
Jewish Principles and the Vision for A SYV
The Impact of A SYV: Programs and Success Stories
Tulane University Study: Proving the Concept
Scaling Deep: The Future of ASYV
Gender Equity and the Inheritance Theater Project
Rwanda's Transformation: From Genocide to Progress
The Anything is Possible Campaign

Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits.

Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village

Mentioned In The Episode:

JC socials:

The Anything is Possible Campaign at ASYV

Jewish Principle Tikkun Olam

Ann Heyman, Founder of Agahzo-Shalom

Yemen Alt Youth Service

Dr. Chaim Peri

ASYV Study with Tulane University

Scaling Deep

Bates College

1994 Rwanda Genocide

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Jewish Broadway Alliance YouTube

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What Gives Me Hope and Broadway Legend Seth Rudetsky

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:17:00 -0800

In this spirited and emotional episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Broadway legend Seth Rudetsky — actor, pianist, musical director, SiriusXM host (Seth’s Big Fat Broadway, Seth Speaks), comedy writer, and tireless advocate — joins Jonah for an honest conversation about the deep history of Jewish contributions to Broadway. They discuss the rise of anti-Jewish and anti-Israel sentiment in the arts world, and the creations of the Jewish Broadway Alliance, a grassroots effort Seth launched in the wake of October 7th.

Drawing from decades on stage and behind the piano, Seth opens up about the challenges of Jewish advocacy, the shock of Broadway’s silence that drove him to speak up, and the emotional weight of organizing initiatives like the Broadway-hosted hostage video and Broadway Shabbat. Seth and Jonah also delve into the highlights from Rudetsky's extraordinary career — from hosting Stars in the House during the COVID-19 pandemic to his concerts for social justice causes — and his dream of creating new educational content celebrating Jewish history through music.

This conversation is a celebration of Jewish creativity and the deep-rooted bond between Jewish artists and the Broadway stage. And if you listen through to the end, you’ll find a special surprise that captures the spirit, heart, and joy that Seth brings to every room he enters.

The Importance of Jewish Influence on Broadway
Introducing the Special Episode and Guest
Seth Advocacy and Jewish Identity
The Impact of October 7th on Seth
Forming the Jewish Broadway Alliance
Challenges and Support in the Broadway Community
Broadway Shabbat and Jewish Joy
Concerts and Fundraising for Social Justice
Stars in the House: A COVID-Time Initiative
Cameron Crowe's Scaled-Down Broadway Production
Supporting a One-Man Show: Ariel Stachel's Story
Jewish Upbringing and Summer Camp Memories
Five Deep Questions with Seth Rudetsky
Grand Finale: A Musical Performance

This episode is supported by Berkeley Mosha, a Jewish co-housing community in California.

Mentioned:

Seth Rudetsky Instagram

Seth Rudetsky Career

SiriusXM On Broadway

Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Cruise

Entertainment Community Fund

Seth’s Posts after October 7th

Broadway community “Bring Them Home” song for the Hostages

Broadway for Orlando “What the World Needs Now”

Broadway for Biden/Harris Inauguration

Black Theater United

Stars in the House YouTube

Jack Plotnick

Shabbat on Broadway

Amanda Lipitz

Julie Benko Sings “Tomorrow” - Hanukkah on Broadway

Everything’s Coming Up Moses by Rachel Shukert: A Biblical Fable based on GYPSY

United Voices For Change

AJC: 5 Facts About Jewish Connection to Israel

Zionism has become a 'bad' word. It is anything but.

Jewish Broadway Alliance with Roz Rothstein

Jewish Broadway Alliance with Ritchie Torres

Defining Antizionism

Dreamgirls Reunion (Stars In The House)

Congregation Beit Simchat Torah

Help is on the Way - David Friedman

Concert for America

Cornell Brooks

Grey’s Anatomy on Stars In The House

30 Rock Special Stars In The House

Maui Wildfires of 2023

Stars in the House Offers Avenue Q Sing Through August 24 to Raise Funds for Hawaii Wildfire Victims

Ari’el Stachel

Ari’el Stachel’s play, Other

Ariel Stachel videos about Jewish identity

Camp Hillel

USDAN Summer Camp

Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand

Varla Jean Merman’s Stonewall

Birthright Israel

People Moving Back to Kibbutz Nir Oz

Dr. Noam Wiesman on Being Jewish

Van Jones on Being Jewish

Neshama App

What I’ve Learnt Podcast

Trybal Gatherings

Magen David Adom

Testigos Del Terror

Leah Soibel on Being Jewish

Fuente Latina_

BBYO Mountain Region

The Big Shabbat

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L’Dor V’adorable Returns! and 3x Academy-Award Nominated Producer Lawrence Bender

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0800

In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Academy Award-nominated producer Lawrence Bender — the creative producing force behind Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting, Reservoir Dogs, An Inconvenient Truth and Inglorious Basterds — Joins Jonah for a candid conversation about the film industry’s reckoning after October 7th and the moral weight of telling real stories in the aftermath of tragedy. Bender’s latest project, Paramount+ miniseries Red Alert, dramatizes the true stories of horror, heroism, and hope that took place on October 7th, 2023, the darkest chapter in Israel’s history.

Bender shares what drew him to the series — from his deep personal connection with Israel, to his collaboration with Israeli production company Keshet, to the emotional and logistical challenges of bringing real stories to screen amid an ongoing conflict. He opens up about the silence he witnessed from Hollywood and his peers in the aftermath of October 7th, and reflects on how his Jewish identity has shaped his life and career.

This episode is both an exploration on the power of art and a call to conscience, illuminating how filmmakers like Bender use their craft to bear witness, challenge complacency, and re-humanize the media headlines that shape our world.

In the episode they discuss:

From civil engineer to dancer to Hollywood mega-producer

Growing up in Antisemitic America

The Impact of October 7th and the Birth of Red Alert

Lawrence's Meeting with Former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres

Meeting the Real Heroes of Red Alert

Being Quentin Tarantino’s Partner & Inglorious Bastards

The Challenges of Filming in During a War

Selling an Israel-focused Series in Today’s Anti-Israel Hollywood

Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits.

Lawrence Bender On Instagram

Mentioned In The Episode:

Red Alert on Paramount Plus

Keshet

Israel Policy Forum

Abu Mazin (Mahmoud Abbas) Believes in a Two State Solution and Opposes Violence

Joc Pederson (Former Dodger)

Domantas Sobonis (King’s Basketball Player)

Jackie Thon on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Duffy Diggs

Hosni Mubarak

Boaz Yakin

Two Distant Strangers - Best Live-Action Short Oscar-Winner

Cops and Robbers short film

Jordana Reuben Yecheil Oct 7 billboards

Lior Chefetz

The Stronghold

Oct. 7 series ‘Red Alert’ a harrowing global reminder of what unfolded in Hamas massacre

Rocket Alerts from Gaza

The Gay Parade in Israel

Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum

Ohad Yahalomi

Ziv Koren

Actors and directors pledge not to work with Israeli film groups ‘implicated in genocide’

Skip Brittenham Obituary

David Ellison Brings New Direction to Paramount

Shimon Peres

Jew on Jew Hate and CNN’s Anchor Jake Tapper

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 23:39:00 -0800

In this special Election Day episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Emmy Award–winning journalist Jake Tapper joins Jonah for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on politics, identity, and truth-telling in a polarized world. Best known as the anchor of CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper and State of the Union, Jake reflects on his decades covering America’s most defining political moments — from the Virginia governor’s race to the New York City mayoral election — and how journalism has evolved in an era of social media outrage and political echo chambers.

Together, Jonah and Jake explore the intersections of Jewish identity, antisemitism — past and present — and the evolving challenges of journalistic integrity in today’s press environment. Jake also opens up about his writing process and his latest books — Race Against Terror, which follows the pursuit of an Al-Qaeda killer, and Original Sin, his political thriller about a presidential cover-up during the 2024 election.

This episode is a deep dive into the ethics of journalism, the responsibility of storytelling, and what it means to stay empathetic and informed in turbulent times. It’s a timely, thought-provoking listen for anyone who cares about democracy, truth, and the power of Jewish values in public discourse.

Topics covered include:

Discussing Key Political Races
The Democratic and Republican Parties
Concerns Within the Jewish Community
Antisemitism in Politics
Personal Experiences with Antisemitism
Challenges in Media Reporting
Jake Tapper's Jewish Identity
Jewish High School Experiences
Jewish Summer Camp Memories
Interfaith Marriages and Family Traditions
Writing About Joe Biden
Race Against Terror: A New Book
Five Deep Questions with Jake Tapper

Sponsors

Navigating Comedy, Antisemitism, and the Gaza/Israel War with Impressionist Ami Kozak

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Ami Kozak is redefining what Jewish comedy and commentary look like in 2025 — blending sharp impressions, fearless satire, and moral clarity in a time of chaos.

In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Ami — modern Orthodox comedian, musician, and host of the podcast Ami’s House — to talk about how his Jewish faith and sense of moral clarity shaped his response to anti-Jew bigotry and misinformation after October 7.

Ami shares:

How growing up modern Orthodox shaped his Jewish identity and worldview
Why October 7 changed his purpose as a performer — turning laughter into a vehicle for truth
Why he chose to have civil conversations with controversial figures like Candace Owens and Dave Smith — and what those exchanges taught him about engaging bad ideas in good faith
The dangers of moral relativism, false “experts,” and the growing misuse of words like “genocide”
What he calls “goosebumps with clarity” — balancing empathy with uncompromising honesty
His creative process for impressions of President Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, and Zohran Mamdani — and how humor can cut through disinformation

From synagogue to stage, from serious debate to satire, Ami Kozak proves that comedy can do more than make people laugh — it can make them think.

Hashtags:

#AmiKozak #BeingJewish #30MinuteMensches #JewishComedy #ModernOrthodox #Israel #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #FreeSpeech #JewishHumor #MoralClarity

Mentioned In The Episode:

Ami’s House (podcast)

Yahud

Your Hebrew word for the day: MAMAD

Human Rights Council members who abuse human rights

Norman Finkelstein vs Alan Dershowitz On Israel-Palestine War With Piers Morgan | The Full Debate

Douglas Murrey

Tucker Carlson Wedding Vows Skit

Zohran Mamdani

Kristallnacht

The Second Intifada 2000

Ami Kozak’s Band “Distant Cousins”

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LIVE FROM PHILLY! Jewish & Native actress Sarah Podemski & activist Lani Anpo (Live from The Weitzman Museum in Philadelphia)

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0700

BEING JEWISH goes live! In our first ever East Coast live pod at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, Jonah Platt welcomes two unique voices, Sarah Podemski and Lani Anpo, who share insights into their dual heritage as both Jewish and First Nation/Native American. Sarah is a Canadian actress, best known for her supporting role as Rita in the hit FX television series Reservation Dogs. Lani is a multi-tribal Native American Jewish advocate and educator, who uses her social media platform to champion the rights of hers and other marginalized groups.

Their conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the significance of Jewish and Native cultural practices, the challenges of acceptance within respective communities, and the similarities between the two indigenous groups. Sarah and Lani share personal stories about their mixed heritage and the impact on their identities, both facing and overcoming external skepticism. The episode also delves into historical contexts such as the impact of blood quantum laws and the diaspora experience, and examines how these factors shape both modern-day struggles and triumphs.

Sarah and Lani offer thoughtful reflections on the importance of community engagement, cultural preservation, and the struggle for sovereignty, especially for Native American and First Nation tribes. This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience and rich cultural histories of these two unique communities.

Topics covered include:

Family Histories and Personal Journeys
Challenges of Mixed Heritage
Parallels Between Jewish and Native Cultures
Support Systems and Resilience
Navigating Trauma Together
Exploring Israeli Identity
Indigeneity and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Native American Reparations
Jewish and Native American Cultural Exchange
Native American History Month

This episode was produced with and recorded live at the Weitzman National

Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia.

Learn more about The Weitzman at https://theweitzman.org

and follow @weitzmanmuseum on Instagram, X, Facebook, and

YouTube.

Mentioned In The Episode:

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

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Soulful Dating Advice with Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaker Aleeza Ben Shalom

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0700

On the hunt for the perfect NJB (Nice Jewish Boy) or Girl? Look no further! On this love-filled episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah is joined by international matchmaking icon Aleeza Ben Shalom, star of the hit Netflix show 'Jewish Matchmaking.” Aleeza is an author, dating coach, and modern day yente who has successfully matched over 200 couples and coached thousands more. Get ready to find your Beshert!

Aleeze spills the tea on the most common dating mistakes, and why you might still be single. She also explains the wisdom behind her signature philosophies: “Date ‘em til’ you hate ‘em” “No touching for five dates” and why “Love is not enough.” Aleeza emphasizes personal growth, compatibility, and building a lasting connection through mutual understanding and shared values. She also discusses her vision for a global matchmaking movement aimed at strengthening communities by helping people find their life partners.

In this episode, Jonah and Aleeza help you YOUR “Beshert” and chat about all of these meaningful topics:

Dating Culture Around the World
Challenges in Modern Dating
The #1 Dating Mistake People Make
Post-Match Coaching and Breakup Rules
Understanding Soulmates in Judaism
Why Older Singles Are Still Single
Opposites Attract vs. Peas in a Pod
Date 'Em Till You Hate 'Em
No Touching for Five Dates
The Importance of Compatibility Beyond Love

Mentioned In Episode

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Making the Implicit Explicit and bestselling author Sarah Hurwitz

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:05:00 -0700

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Curse of Knowledge - Cognitive Bias

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Our first returning guest, Sarah Hurwitz, rejoins Jonah to discuss her powerful new book As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us — a work as essential as it is uplifting in a post–October 7th world. In this deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation, Sarah reflects on how education can be a true source of empowerment and shares insights from her own evolving Jewish journey. Drawing from years of research and her current pursuit of the rabbinate, she offers a rich, nuanced perspective on what it means to live — and lead — as a Jew today.

For Sarah, Judaism isn’t about any single expression — not just Israel, Hebrew, activism, or observance — but the harmony of all these threads woven together with curiosity, study and connection to the sacred wisdom of our ancient tradition. This episode feels like stepping into a vibrant, welcoming congregation — full of learning, laughter, and meaning. Don’t miss this inspiring and deeply grounding conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editor Diana DeCilio, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Editor: Noem Klement; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN MONOLOGUE

What Is The Illusion of Transparency?

What is Naive Realism?

Explaining Settler Violence in the West Bank/Judea & Samaria

Understanding the IDF’S Code of Ethics

The Complicated Connection Between President Trump & American Jews

Chicago ICE’s Crackdown Leads To Father of Two Being Shot at Daycare Pickup

As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us by Sarah Hurwitz

Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life–in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah Hurwitz

The Atlantic: The Judaism I Thought I Knew by Sarah Hurwitz

Understanding the “As A Jew” Jews

Emancipation of European Jews

The Jewish Reform Movement in 19th Century Europe

Holy Scriptures of Judaism

Understanding Secular Zionism

Judaism and the Human Body

The Sanctity of the Human Body in Judaism

In God’s Image: B'tselem Elohim

Who is Rabbi Yitz Greenberg?

The Wexner Foundation

Who Were Amalek & The Amalekites?

Homosexuality & The Death Penalty in Leviticus 20

Ancient Teachings of “An Eye for an Eye”

Old Testament Vs New Testament

Why Do People Hate Jews: Dara Horn (Video)

A Look at “Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” by Dara Horn (Short)

“Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” — Tablet Magazine Article

The Expulsion of Jews From Arab Countries and Iran - An Untold Story

The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Jewish Currents)

The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Indiana Law Journal)

Ethiopian Jews in Israel: Operation Solomon & More

Anti-Judaism: The Western Tradition by David Nirenberg

What Is The Great Replacement Theory & What Should Jews Know About It?

British Foreign Minister Ernest Bevin at the Palestine Conference

What Is Brandolini’s Law?

What is Bikur Cholim? The Importance of Visiting the Sick in the Jewish Faith

Miller Intro to Judaism Program

A Code of Jewish Ethics by Joseph Telushkin

Rabbi Jonathan Sachs “Covenant and Conversation” Box Set

Being Trans & Jewish with CoverGirl model Madison Werner

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:48:00 -0700

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Madison Werner has been a trailblazer in the transgender and Jewish communities, becoming the first transgender CoverGirl model in 2024 and using her platform to inspire hundreds of thousands worldwide. With pride, compassion and honesty, she shares her story of identity, faith, and belonging.

In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, Madison joins Jonah Platt to open up about navigating life as a Jewish and transgender woman - two powerful identities she refuses to separate. Since October 7th and the Israel/Hamas war, Madison has spoken out about the complexities many LGBTQ+ Jews face in balancing their support for Israel with acceptance in queer spaces. Through it all, she’s led with empathy, courage, and curiosity challenging brands, re-examining friendships, and deepening her connection to Jewish values.

Madison also shares:

Her experiences at Tel Aviv Pride
What it was like sheltering in Israel during the Iranian rocket attacks
Growing up in a Jewish day school
What Jewish teachings say about gender and transgender identity

This is a powerful, deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, and faith in today’s world.

Listen to Madison Werner on 30 Minute Mensches with Jonah Platt - where modern Jewish voices share stories of courage, compassion, and community.

Connect with Madison

Follow Madison Werner on Instagram

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

Mentioned in Episode

Bullsh*t Behavior & Central Synagogue’s Rabbi Angela Buchdahl

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 04:12:00 -0700

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In an episode that beautifully blends trailblazing with tradition, Jonah Platt sits down with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of New York’s Central Synagogue to discuss her powerful new book, Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Story of Faith, Identity and Belonging. Together, they explore what it means to live JEWISHLY today — drawing on timeless wisdom, personal reflection, and ancient storytelling.

From conversations about conversion and inclusion to reflections on optimism and belonging in a fractured world, Rabbi Buchdahl brings her signature depth and compassion to every topic. Much like her weekly sermons, streamed by millions around the globe every week, this discussion feels both timely and timeless, landing perfectly on the Jewish calendar as she reflects on the meaning of Simchat Torah and Shemini Atzeret.

At the heart of the episode — and of Rabbi Buchdahl’s book — lies a profound idea: that to be Jewish often means to feel like a stranger - usually a sentiment that feels isolating but when embraced can be inspiring, empathetic and purposeful. Don’t miss this thoughtful and uplifting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

Connect with our guest

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell

Mentioned In Episode

Unpacking Better Israel Education with OpenDor Media’s Dr. Noam Weissman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 08:15:00 -0700

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What happens when Jewish education stops being about advocacy — and starts being about curiosity?

That’s the mission of Dr. Noam Weissman, Executive Vice President of OpenDor Media and host of the hit podcast Unpacking Israeli History. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah and Noam dive into how we teach, talk and think about Israel — and what it takes to build a generation of Jews who are both passionate and informed.

Noam shares:

Why “Israel education” should be about questions, not just advocacy
What he calls “goosebumps with complexity” — combining emotional connection with intellectual honesty
Why teaching young Jews that Israel is perfect does more harm than good
The untold story of the Altalena ship, and how it nearly tore Israel apart
Why Jewish summer camps and schools are key to rebuilding Israel literacy — and what real Zionism looks like in the 21st century

From school classrooms to TikTok feeds, Noam Weissman is revolutionizing how people learn about Israel and Jewish identity — blending history, heart, and hard truths. Listen now to hear how one educator is transforming Jewish learning for a new generation.

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In Episode

Remembering October 7th with Israeli Artist Tomer Peretz

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:30:00 -0700

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On the second anniversary of October 7th, Jonah sits down with Israeli artist and advocate Tomer Peretz to discuss The 8 Project — an extraordinary initiative he launched in the aftermath of the attacks. Rooted in the symbolism of creation, resilience, and renewal, The 8 Project helps survivors of October 7th — from NOVA attendees and hostage families to soldiers and grieving parents — discover how art can be a powerful path to healing.

For Tomer, that lesson is deeply personal. In Israel for a wedding just days before the attacks, he witnessed the horror of October 7th firsthand. He put his emotions aside to volunteer with ZAKA, Israel’s emergency rescue organization, but the weight of it all eventually caught up with him. What helped him process the pain was art — a lifeline that not only restored his own hope, but reignited his belief in the strength of the Jewish and Israeli people. The results of that creative resilience were recently showcased at The Museum of Tolerance, featuring works from survivors across Israel. In this emotional and deeply meaningful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah and Tomer explore the power of art therapy, the unbreakable connection between creativity and faith and the urgent importance of sharing the stories of those who survived.

Connect with Our Guest

Follow Tomer Peretz: www.instagram.com/tomerperetzart
The 8 Project: https://the8project.org/
TomerPeretz.com: https://tomerperetz.com/

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In Episode

Wisdom from Beyond the Veil with Jewish Psychic & Energy Healer Jana Stern

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:28:00 -0700

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After being clinically DEAD for 11 minutes, Jana Stern returned to life with a mission: Help others honor their true essence and bring light to the world. That’s the story of Jana Stern — Jewish psychic, astrologer, and spiritual healer. In this unique episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jana opens up about her near-death experience, her lifelong connection to ancestral wisdom, and how Jewish identity and Kabbalah align with her work. She also gives Jonah a spiritual energy reading live on air!

Jana shares:

Her 11 minutes “beyond the veil,” encountering ancestors and choosing to return to this world
How hearing voices — once feared as schizophrenia — became the foundation of her spiritual gift
The Jewish roots of astrology, Kabbalah, and metaphysics, and why she says this wisdom is “ours”
How Shabbat, rituals, and Torah teachings are deeply tied to spiritual energy
Why she believes there are no coincidences — only divine coordination and manifestation
How trauma, tragedy, and loss can still be part of a higher purpose for growth and healing

From astrology charts and synchronicities to Shabbat candles and Jewish ancestry, Jana brings a unique lens on spirituality, Judaism, and healing in the modern world.

Listen now to explore how Jewish wisdom and mysticism can bring meaning and healing to modern life.

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In The Episode

Self-Inflicted Doomscrolling and Seinfeld Star Jason Alexander

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0700

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We’re Back! I In this very special season premiere of Being Jewish, Jason Alexander, who gave us the iconic George Costanza from Seinfeld, joins Jonah Platt to discuss Jewish identity, cultural Judaism vs. religion, his work as a proud Jew and activist supporting Israel, and the impact of October 7th. The legendary actor, Tony Award-winner, and generational TV comedy icon kicks off the new season in a deep and honest conversation. Jason Alexander cares about the children; he is not interested in belonging to a group and would rather build bridges and not borders, learn why this Mensch is truly a Master of His Domain.

Jason Alexander discusses his personal faith and the distinction between cultural Judaism (a "shirt I can't take off") and formal religious doctrine. He shares the emotional weight of being a Jew since October 7th and his long-standing commitment to Jewish philanthropy, including organizations like Magen David Adom, the ADL, and Jewish Federation. He clarifies the story behind his stage name change from Jay Scott Greenspan to Jason Alexander.

If that’s not enough, Jason gives us his unbelievable inside stories from working on Seinfeld and tells us about the one episode that even he thought pushed the boundaries taste too much.

Connect with Our Guest

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In Episode

WE’RE BACK, BABY! All-New Season 2 of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 14:00:11 -0700

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Season 2 premieres THIS TUESDAY September 30th! And we’ll continue dropping 30 Minute Mensches every Thursday. A double dose of BJJP every week!

This season features more incredible guests beginning with Jason Alexander, Tomer Peretz, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Sarah Hurwitz, Sarah Podemski & Lani Anpo, Jake Tapper and many more!

Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to make sure you don’t miss a moment!

Living as a Proud, Public New York Jew with “Boy With No Job” Ben Soffer

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700

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What does it mean to live proudly and publicly Jewish in New York City, with the possibility of Zohran Mamdani as mayor looming large? Ask Ben Soffer, better known as @BoyWithNoJob to his over 1 million followers online. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Ben — CEO of Spritz Society wine cocktails, co-host of the hit Good Guys podcast with Josh Peck, husband to viral creator Claudia Oshry (Girl With No Job), and proud modern Orthodox Jew — to talk about faith, family, social media, and Jewish pride in today’s charged climate. Together, Jonah and Ben dig into

How Ben built a unique modern Orthodox identity on his own terms
What it feels like to wear a kippah on the streets of New York amid rising anti-Jew bigotry
The effect October 7th had on his Jewish identity… or didn’t?
How becoming a father deepened his sense of connection to God and Jewish continuity
The story behind Spritz Society — and how a viral April Fool’s joke turned into a real-life savory cocktail courtesy of Claussen’s Pickles!

From candid takes on community safety to spreading Jewish joy through humor (and beverages!), Ben Soffer embodies what it means to be unapologetically yourself — and unapologetically Jewish — in the digital age. Listen now to hear how one of the internet’s most authentic voices is shaping Jewish identity for a new generation.

Connect with Our Guest

Ben Soffer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boywithnojob/

Ben Soffer & Josh Peck’s Podcast “The Good Guys” https://www.instagram.com/goodguys/

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In Episode

What is the Purpose of Judaism? Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin Has The Answer… And It’s Not What You Think!

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:28:00 -0700

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What does it mean to reclaim Judaism not in the synagogue — but at the family table? That’s the vision of Rabbi David Bashevkin, author, podcaster, educator and one of today’s most engaging Modern Orthodox voices. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Rabbi Bashevkin to explore how Judaism can speak authentically to modern life and why Jewish identity is ultimately about integrating our “unchosen” identities with the “chosen” ones.

Rabbi Bashevkin shares:

Why Jewish life must begin in the home, not in synagogues or textbooks
How Judaism helps us integrate our unchosen identity (family, history, peoplehood) with our chosen paths in life
The importance of 1840 — a mystical year that reshaped Jewish thought, technology, and modern identity
Why Jewish education must instill a love of lifelong learning– not just through graduation
The urgent need for bridge-building within the Jewish community — and how to turn religious difference into dialogue
Why teens crave authenticity, and how NCSY empowers them through peer-to-peer mentorship
The challenge of negative Orthodox representation in the media — and why Judaism is meant for the imperfect among us

Rabbi Bashevkin’s work through his platform 18Forty (essays, podcasts, and conversations at 1840.org) opens the door for “post-institutional Jews” and anyone searching for meaning beyond the classroom. Listen to this episode to find out why Judaism isn’t just about survival or fighting antisemitism — it’s about rediscovering purpose, family, and the sanctity of everyday existence.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson. Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

Anti-Jew Propaganda in the Hispanic World with Fuente Latina CEO Leah Soibel

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:27:00 -0700

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In this eye-opening episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Leah Soibel, an Argentine-American Jew and the founder and CEO of Fuente Latina, to explore her remarkable journey — from studying across the Middle East during the Second Intifada to becoming a leading voice for Latino-Jewish allyship. Leah spent years immersed in Cairo, Beirut, and beyond, before building the first organization dedicated to connecting Spanish-speaking journalists with accurate, on-the-ground stories from Israel.

Leah shares:

Her experiences as the only American Jew debating at a “Mock Arab League” in Cairo — and what she learned about misunderstanding vs. hatred
How traveling solo across Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza shaped her perspective on media, politics, and truth
Why she founded Fuente Latina — and how it bridges the gap between Israel and over 500 million Spanish speakers worldwide
The rise of antisemitism in Spain — and the quiet network of allies working behind the scenes
Why Latin American immigrants to Israel were among the hardest hit on October 7th — and the powerful new docuseries sharing their stories
Why U.S. Latinos, the fastest-growing voting bloc, may be the strongest future allies for Israel and the Jewish community

Leah’s story is one of courage, strategy, and vision — showing how truth and relationships can combat misinformation and build bridges across cultures. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now and join the movement for Latino-Jewish allyship.

More On Leah Soibel

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère. Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

Mentioned in Episode

There’s No One Way to Orthodox with Jewish TikTok Star Melinda Strauss

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:12:00 -0700

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Melinda Strauss is a modern Orthodox Jewish influencer and food blogger who passionately believes that Jewish joy is resistance and Jewish presence is power. Her digital journey began with a singular mission: to share, educate and enlighten others about the richness of Orthodox Jewish life. Feeling consistently misrepresented and misunderstood, Melinda took it upon herself to authentically showcase Orthodox Jewish identity to the world.

What started with kosher recipe videos quickly grew into a powerful platform that highlights Jewish traditions, such as putting on Tefillin or wearing a Yarmulke. Her content has been met with some hate - but more curiosity and compassion. Today, Melinda Strauss is a vocal advocate for Jewish people, using her voice to increase visibility, fight anti-Jewish bigotry and celebrate Jewish heritage and culture globally — and she’s only just getting started.

In this conversation with Jonah, Melinda discusses:

The current climate and safety concerns facing the global Jewish community
Melinda’s upcoming kosher cookbook Eat Jewish: 100 Recipes That Blend Jewish Heritage, Modern Flavors and Family Traditions
Her personal journey living with Type 1 Diabetes
Her nuanced thoughts on certain Jewish laws, including The Get
The rich, diverse, and evolving tapestry of Orthodox Jewish identity

Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!)

Host & Production Team

Host/Creator: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

More Melinda Strauss

Mentioned in Episode

Israeli Michelin Chef Eyal Shani - Uniting Humanity Through Food

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 12:57:00 -0700

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In this deliciously inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with world-renowned Israeli Chef Eyal Shani — the culinary visionary behind Miznon, HaSalon, Malkah, and dozens of other Israeli restaurants around the globe. As a ninth-generation Jerusalemite with no formal culinary training, Chef Eyal has redefined Israeli cuisine and hospitality while carrying out a mission much bigger than food– spreading positive energy, peace, and connection with each bite. Just days after the horrific October 7th attack, Chef Eyal was awarded the coveted Michelin star for his New York restaurant Shmone, but chose not to attend the ceremony. Why? He was busy cooking thousands of meals for soldiers on the Gaza border, embodying his belief that food is truly about people, not prizes.

Together, Jonah and Chef Eyal explore:

Why he treats every ingredient — from cucumbers to prime rib — as a living “creature” with a will and a story
The night violent anti-Israel agitators attacked the Melbourne branch of his restaurant Miznon, and how Lebanese neighbors saved his team’s lives
How his deep connection to the Palestinian women of the Jerusalem markets inspired his earliest dishes
Why he believes food can reunite Israelis and Palestinians — and create “a new Israel” after war
His vision for opening a boutique hotel and restaurant on the Gaza border as a symbol of renewal

Chef Shani’s philosophy is radical yet simple: there are no borders in food, only human beings. Don’t miss this extraordinary conversation with a chef whose cooking has become a language of hope. Listen to the full episode now and be part of the conversation.

Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!)

All Things Chef Eyal!

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell; Production Assistant: Emma Webb; Theme Music by Gabriel Mann

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Should Music Be Political? With Grammy-Winning Jewish Musician Joanie Leeds

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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It’s music meets mishpacha in this heartfelt new episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches! Grammy-winning Jewish children’s music artist Joanie Leeds joins Jonah to share stories about the triumphs and challenges of making Jewish music in today’s climate. They discuss the debut of her 12th studio album Ageless, an ode to multi-generational heritage and Jewish values. Joanie and Jonah also tackle the line between music as political expression and music as the universal language of unity. They also get into:

🎶 How Joanie turned banned children’s books into the protest album Freadom
✡️ The challenges of advocating for a Jewish music category at the Grammys
🎤 Collaborating with her daughter on song and on the stage
📚 The greatness of Jewish hero Ruth Bader Ginsburg
🎸 Balancing inclusivity and political messaging in family-friendly music

Press Play and join us for 30 minutes of music, meaning, and Jewish joy!

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All Things Joanie!

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

The Secret History of Crypto-Jews with Mexican-American Jew Blanca Carrasco

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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What happens when you grow up Catholic in Mexico — and discover you’re secretly Jewish?

In this riveting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Blanca Carrasco, a descendant of Crypto-Jews who only discovered her family’s secret heritage at age 50. Now the president of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, Blanca unpacks the unknown history of Crypto-Jews — descendants of Jews who secretly maintained their faith after being forced to convert during the Spanish Inquisition. Blanca shares her extraordinary journey to discover who her true family is. She’s a leader in the global movement helping descendants of forcibly converted Jews reclaim their heritage.

Blanca opens up about:

🕯️ How the Spanish Inquisition forced her ancestors to flee Spain and hide their Judaism for generations
✝️ Being raised devoutly Catholic — and the moment she began questioning what she was taught
🔯 Her path from Messianic Judaism to a full Jewish conversion
📜 The Facebook post that led to the discovery of her secret family tree
🎓 Her work with the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, and why their academic research has personal meaning for thousands of “Anusim” around the world
🎬 A sneak peek into the Society's upcoming Los Angeles conference, including an opera, film screenings, and a genealogy workshop with Jeannie Milgrom

From Monterrey to El Paso, from the Church to the shul, Blanca’s story is a global tale of discovery, identity, and reconnection. Her life proves that history isn’t just in books — it’s in your blood. Hit play to discover how centuries of hidden history came full circle, and what Blanca’s story means for all of us.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

The Truth about Israeli Minorities with Lebanese Christian activist Jonathan Elkhoury

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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What’s it like to be a gay Lebanese Christian — and proudly Zionist?

In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with international Jonathan Elkhoury, a proud Israeli citizen who is challenging false media narratives and misconceptions about Israel one campus conversation at a time. Born in Lebanon to a father who fought alongside the IDF during Israel’s 1982 intervention in the Lebanese civil war, Jonathan fled Hezbollah rule and found refuge in Israel at age 9. He shares the harrowing story of his family’s escape, his emotional reunion with his father, and how Israel not only gave him safety, but also the freedom to live openly as a gay man — the only Middle Eastern country where that’s possible.

Jonathan also speaks out about:

🏳️‍🌈 Israel’s track record on LGBTQ rights — and the lie of “pinkwashing”
🎓 How he confronts anti-Israel misinformation on college campuses — even after being spat on, kicked, and targeted for his views
🧱 How he combats "Israeli Apartheid Week" with the truth of his lived experiences
👤 What it means to be a “minority within a minority within a minority” — and why he still stands with Israel
📺 Why mainstream media — including the BBC — continues to fail on the Middle East
🔥 The real reasons Israel went into Lebanon in 1982 — and the Palestinian terrorism that sparked a civil war

Jonathan’s story is a living example of intersectionality — and how true human rights work means defending people, not slogans. He is the voice anti-Israel activists try to silence. Don’t miss hearing him on this week’s can’t miss episode.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb); Editor: Rainbow Creative Team; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

Follow Jonathan on:

IG: @jon_elk

X: @Jonathan_Elk

MENTIONED IN EPISODE:

The Wonderful World of Jewish Identity with Disney Animator Saul Blinkoff

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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In this inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with acclaimed Disney animator, filmmaker, and motivational speaker Saul Blinkoff for a powerful conversation about Jewish resilience, Disney magic, and living a life of purpose. Together, they explore how timeless Jewish values are embedded in iconic animated films like The Lion King, and Saul speaks passionately about finding meaning in your Jewish identity every day, and the importance of living with responsibility and intention.

Saul reflects on his transformative trips to Israel as a guide with the nonprofit Momentum, and urges Jews worldwide to "LIVE FOR the Jewish people" as Israeli sons and daughters die to defend them. He and Jonah discuss how Jewish resilience, hope, and creativity can be antidotes to despair, even in the face of the horrors of October 7th. They also tackle:

⁇ Was Walt Disney really an antisemite?
🎬 The hidden Jewish values in your favorite Disney films
🇮🇱 Why Saul insists it’s safe (and necessary) to go to Israel right NOW
🌟 The miraculous story of Omer Shem Tov, who kept his hope and Jewish identity alive, even as a Hamas hostage in Gaza
And much more

If you’re looking for inspiration, wisdom, and practical ways to infuse your life with purpose and Jewish pride, this episode is a must-watch!

Subscribe for more episodes of 30 Minute Mensches and join the conversation about what it truly means to be Jewish today.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE:

All things Saul Blinkoff:

www.SaulBlinkoff.com

IG: @Saul.Blinkoff

Life of Awesome Podcast

SERIES PREMIERE! 30 Minute Mensches: Michal Cotler-Wunsh, Israel’s Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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In the premiere of our new series 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah Platt sits down with Michal Cotler-Wunsh — former Knesset member and Israel’s Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism — for a long-overdue conversation about the eighth front of war: the battle for public opinion. Jonah and Michal discuss how antisemitism has manifested itself today, particularly through using anti-Zionist rhetoric, and how Israelis may feel a disconnect from that. Michal gives her perspective on how institutions such as the UN, Amnesty International, and elite universities have not only tolerated but enabled and normalized antisemitic double standards under the guise of progressive activism. Jonah challenges Michal to help make sense of the widespread moral confusion and media failures that culminate to chants such as “Death to the IDF,” and asks how we can bridge the gap with well-meaning people who have been misled by catchy headlines and ill-informed outrage. This episode answers the question of why antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem, but a global one, and what we can do to fight it.

This episode tackles:

🧠 Why Michal’s role as Israel’s antisemitism envoy is so crucial today, especially in combating widespread misinformation and harmful rhetoric.
🎓 How university presidents and U.S. officials have failed to take a stand in the face of rising Jew-hatred
🕍 Why most Israelis don’t understand global antisemitism — and why they need to
📖 The 3 R’s: Remember, Reclaim, Renew — a framework for Jewish pride
👤How human rights advocacy has been hijacked and weaponized by anti-Zionists.

—

🎙️ 30 Minute Mensches is a new short-form edition of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt — spotlighting diverse voices doing meaningful work across Jewish and allied communities.

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

SEASON 1 FINALE! My Inspiration & Jewish Federation Chairwoman Julie Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:24:16 -0700

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A VERY special episode!! Julie Platt — lifelong Jewish leader, philanthropist, Chairwoman of Jewish Federations of North America– and Jonah’s mom! — joins Jonah for the highly anticipated Season One finale of Being Jewish. Her tenure as Chairwoman of the Diaspora’s largest philanthropic organization has seen Julie lead the Jewish community through Covid, the war in Ukraine, the horrors of October 7th and its aftermath, Israel’s war with Iran, and more. Through these crises and her decades of leadership, Julie has amassed a lifetime of wisdom and experience that she generously and candidly shares with Jonah and the BJJP community.

If you’ve ever asked, “What can I do to help?” — this is the episode for you. Julie offers rich stories, practical insights, and inspiring advice to power up the leader in each of us.

In this dynamic and heartfelt episode, Jonah and Julie dive into:

✡️ Why and how to be a leader
🏕️ Why Jewish Summer Camp is more than just fun — it’s formative
🌍 All the big Jewish orgs– AJC, ADL, JFNA, FJC, JDC, Hillel, Prizmah, The Jewish Agency– and how they’re trying to work together as never before
🇮🇱 When Julie received Israel’s highest civilian honor from President Isaac Herzog
🎓 Campus antisemitism in America — and how as interim board president, Julie helped steer the University of Pennsylvania through the most chaotic period in the school’s history
😂 A hilarious and personal peek inside Jonah and Julie’s own family dynamic

It’s a finale full of heart, humor, and hope — guaranteed to leave you empowered, emboldened, and inspired to be a leader, even from the comfort of your own home.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Interns: Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

The Key to Being Jewish & Israeli-American activist Noa Tishby

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Thank you to Jacob Fenton & Phil Kastel for sponsoring this episode, in honor of the lives lost during the Shoah, and the blessed lives who endured.

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https://www.noatishby.com/

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Jonah sits down with Israeli powerhouse Noa Tishby — author of Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth, former Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism, producer of HBO’s In Treatment, and one of the most influential voices in modern Jewish advocacy. From the get-go, they explore a hard truth: Ending antisemitism is not a tangible goal to achieve, but a context in which we live.

Together, Jonah and Noa dive deep into:

🇮🇱 Noa’s unique journey from Israeli stardom to Hollywood success
🕍 The key differences between Israeli and American Jewish identity
📕Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, the book she co-wrote with NFL star Emmanuel Acho
🔥 Noa’s take on the Iran threat, Gaza war, and what's happening in Judea & Samaria
📺 Behind-the-scenes on how she brought Peabody-winning series In Treatment to HBO
📸 The story behind her viral celebrity Hanukkah videos with Gwyneth Paltrow, Mila Kunis, Gal Gadot, Tiffany Haddish, Van Jones, and Cindy Crawford
🎓Anti-Jew bigotry, Nova survivors, and having an impact on college campuses
📺 Plus: Noa’s must-watch TV picks, personal stories, laughs, and more

This is a no holds barred, no B.S. conversation – the Jewish advocacy crossover episode you’ve been waiting for!

Host & Production Team

Learn More About Noa Tishby

Israel: A Simple Guide To Understanding The Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noa Tishby

Noa’s Favorite Follows on Instagram

@AWiderFrame

@HenMazzig

@MichaelRappaport

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

A New Segment! & “Jews Don’t Count” with British comedian David Baddiel

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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David Baddiel — comedian, author, public intellectual, and the UK’s most outspoken Jewish voice — joins Jonah to unpack the core ideas behind his groundbreaking book Jews Don’t Count. With his characteristic wit and unflinching eye for truth, Baddiel deconstructs contemporary anti-Jew racism, explaining how it functions, its origins, why it persists in “progressive” spaces, how it’s different from traditional antisemitism, and why Jews are so often excluded from conversations about representation, identity, and minority status.

💬 Topics include:

The double standards in how antisemitism is treated compared to other forms of racism
Baddiel’s confusing Jewish upbringing and identity struggles
His family’s escape from Nazi Germany and his grandfather’s unjust internment on the Isle of Man
Antisemitism in UK football culture
What it means to be a “Non-Zionist”
Baddiel’s atheist yearning for divine comfort aka The God Desire
His podcast with Muslim politician Sayeeda Warsi: A Jew and a Muslim Go There 🎧
And why “Jews don’t count” as a minority when it comes to media representation on shows like Friends and Seinfeld 📺

This is a must-watch conversation for anyone interested in understanding contemporary antisemitism, generational trauma, and the challenges of fighting anti-Jew racism in today’s complex “woke” climate.

Like, subscribe, and share to help us keep these important conversations going.

Host & Production Team

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Jewish Women & Auburn Basketball Head Coach Bruce Pearl

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Auburn Men's Basketball head coach Bruce Pearl joins Jonah for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about life, leadership, and faith, only a few weeks after leading Auburn to their second NCAA Final Four. A legendary figure in college basketball, Coach Pearl opens up about his Jewish heritage, his decision to speak up for the Israeli hostages in the middle of the NCAA March Madness Tournament, his ideas for the Middle East post-Gaza/Israel war, and his mission to build bridges between different communities of faith around the world.

🎙️ Other topics include:

The Jewish Evangelical Christian Alliance
Interfaith marriage
The truth about Palestine and Qatar
Real-World coaching scenarios
Being a Jewish coach in Alabama
What’s broken in American Jewish education

Whether you're passionate about sports, Judaism, or geopolitics, this episode offers a rare and inspiring look at the intersection of athletics, identity, and advocacy.

Host & Production Team

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Darwin’s Finches and “Call Me By Your Name” author André Aciman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Jonah Platt sits down with celebrated author André Aciman, the literary voice behind the beloved novel Call Me By Your Name, in this intimate and illuminating conversation. Known for his lyrical prose and deep explorations of longing, identity, and exile, Aciman opens up about his Sephardic Jewish heritage, his family's displacement from Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Spain, and the Dalmatian Coast, and how a lifelong sense of otherness has shaped his storytelling.

Together, they dive into the emotional layers of young love, memory, and spiritual yearning that define Aciman’s most iconic works. He also shares behind-the-scenes insights into his latest book, Room on the Sea, and teases what’s next in his creative journey.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his world, this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of our most thoughtful contemporary writers.

Watch the episode on YouTube here! https://youtu.be/kVGjzdl2nEQ

Host & Production Team

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Listening to Anti-Israel Jews & “The Babka King” Chris Caresnone

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 27 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Hey Podcast People! In this FLAVORFUL and heartfelt episode, Jonah is joined by rising social media sensation Chris Caresnone — a Black, non-Jewish content creator known for his hilarious multicultural food adventures and cross-cultural humor.

Together, they dive into the vibrant culinary culture of Los Angeles, sampling iconic Jewish foods from Sephardic pastries to Wagyu shawarma, and more. As Chris shares his transformational journey from unknown content creator to beloved bridge builder, the conversation turns to identity, resilience, and how food can break barriers and foster community.

What you'll hear in this episode:

Chris Chris Caresnone’s unique path through the world of digital content
A tour of Jewish culinary traditions through a modern lens
Real talk about multiculturalism, belonging, and personal growth
A hilarious food-focused game Jonah invented just for Chris!
Sneak peeks into Chris's next delicious destinations

Whether you're a foodie, a fan of Jewish culture, or just love a good origin story with laughs and heart, this episode delivers.

Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/R5MtH0a5FW0

Host & Production Team

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Special Bonus Episode! An interview on 'Unholy' featuring Jonah Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Fri, 23 May 2025 21:07:21 -0700

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We're dropping in a compelling conversation from the Unholy podcast, hosted by Jonathan Freedland and Yonit Levi, featuring our very own Jonah Platt.

Jonah dives into the need for stronger Jewish community security, the tensions within families and institutions, and how Hollywood and college campuses are wrestling with Jewish identity. He also shares why he sees signs of a modern Jewish renaissance—and what gives him hope.

This thoughtful, wide-ranging interview reflects the heart of Being Jewish: honest dialogue, cultural insight, and voices that matter.

Tune in and share—it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Connect with UnHoly
https://www.instagram.com/unholypodcast/
https://linktr.ee/unholypod

JAHM is My Jam + Animation Icon Tara Strong

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 20 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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The Canadian Queen of Cartoons is in the house! Legendary voice actor Tara Strong has created some of the most iconic characters of all time—Timmy Turner (The Fairly OddParents), Bubbles (Powerpuff Girls), Raven (Teen Titans), Twilight Sparkle (My Little Pony), and Dil Pickles (Rugrats)— now she’s speaking out as herself. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah and Tara sit down for a candid and courageous conversation about using your voice—on and off the screen.

Tara opens up about what it’s like to be a proud Jewish woman in the entertainment industry—navigating the intersection of celebrity, activism, and antisemitism in 2025. With humor, heart, and an unapologetic sense of self, she shares the personal cost of standing up for Israel, the vitriol she’s received online, and why she refuses to stay silent.

Watch this episode on YouTube at: YouTube.com/@BeingJewishPodcast

We dive deep into:
✅ Tara’s Jewish roots and her journey to spiritual empowerment
✅ The backlash—and unexpected support—after Tara spoke out on October 7th
✅ Tara’s loving & meaningful connection to the neurodivergent community

✅ The Jewish takes on classic cartoon characters you never knew you needed!

Connect with our guest!

Follow Tara Strong

https://x.com/tarastrong

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Nathan Wheatley & Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

A Mantra for the Digital Age + Jewish Student Leaders Tessa Veksler & Eden Yadegar

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 13 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Jewish college students are standing up—and they’re not backing down. In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with two outstanding Jewish student leaders: Tessa Veksler (former UCSB Student Body President) and Eden Yadegar (Columbia University senior). These passionate advocates open up about what it's really like to be Jewish students facing antisemitism on college campuses today, no matter what you might see (or not!) on the news.

Armed with their voices, courage, and personal histories as daughters of immigrants who escaped anti-Jewish regimes abroad, they’re reclaiming Jewish identity, challenging misinformation and demanding visibility, safety, and truth. And they’re doing it all in some of the most charged environments in higher education.

Watch this episode on YouTube at: YouTube.com/@BeingJewishPodcast

We dive deep into:
✅ The shocking and pervasive rise of Jew hatred on college campuses
✅ The difference between more assimilated American Jews and those from families who fled persecution
✅ What Jewish student leaders are doing well — and where we need to go from here
✅ Engagement with the World Zionist Congress and global Jewish identity
✅ What inspires the next generation of Jewish advocates and how YOU can make a difference

Whether you're a Jewish student, parent, educator, or ally, this episode offers honest insight, personal stories, and empowering takeaways.

This episode is sponsored by PJ Library, the amazing non-profit that sends FREE age-appropriate Jewish storybooks and activities every single month to families with kids age 0-12. Did we mention, it’s free! Sign up today at pjlibrary.org/Jonah

Connect with our guests!

Follow Eden Yadegar on Instagram @edenyadegar
Follow Tessa Veksler on Instagram @tessaveksler

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

My Muslim Trip to Auschwitz & Legendary Broadway Composer Jason Robert Brown

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 06 May 2025 09:32:43 -0700

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In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The Last Five Years, 13) joins Jonah for a raw and thought-provoking conversation about what it means to be Jewish in American theater today. From the complexities of Jewish pride and representation to the discomfort he feels being labeled “America’s greatest Jewish composer,” Jason opens up like never before.

The two dive into Jason’s legendary career, exploring the cultural impact of his shows and how Jewish themes have shaped and challenged his work. Jason shares intimate reflections on his relationships with Broadway icons Hal Prince and Alfred Uhry, the artistic tension between creative integrity and commercial success, and how he’s always felt like an outsider, even within the institutions and communities where he “should” feel at home.

If you care about Broadway, authentic storytelling, identity, or what it means to stay rooted as an artist in turbulent times, this episode will challenge and inspire you.

Watch this episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishOfficial - https://youtu.be/x74YTgGNc_c

Connect with Sharaka

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharakango/
Connect with Luai Ahmed

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justluai

Connect with Jonathan Elkhoury

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jon_elk
Instagram Highlights from Jonah’s Trip with Sharaka to Poland

https://www.instagram.com/p/DI5w6Dbxmou/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

Host & Production Team

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

Erased by the Algorithm + CNN anchor Dana Bash

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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News anchor Dana Bash is the face of CNN’s biggest political nights, a trusted voice in American journalism—and deeply, proudly Jewish. In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah and Dana sit down for an unfiltered conversation about media, politics, identity, and what it means to show up as a Jew.

Dana shares the harrowing true story of her grandparents' survival during the Holocaust, revealing the deep personal history that shapes her today. She also opens up about what it was like reporting live on October 7th, 2023, and how the weight of the moment impacted her both professionally and personally.

Dana dishes on the infamous 2024 presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden that changed the course of American history, and offers her assessment of today’s Democrat and Republican parties. Plus, Dana offers a candid look at how Fox News changed the public’s trust in the media, reshaping the landscape of broadcast journalism, and shares the inspiring story of how she got her start at CNN — from the tape library to one of the most trusted faces in news today.

If you're interested in Jewish identity, Holocaust stories, journalism, media trust, or behind-the-scenes moments at CNN, this episode is a must-listen!

Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast on YouTube! https://youtu.be/Fo5fFkBni-s

Connect with Dana Bash

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danabashcnn/?hl=en

X - https://www.instagram.com/danabashcnn/?hl=en

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O' Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

The Cost of Freedom and Arizona’s Jewish Latina legislators Alma, Consuelo, and Daniel Hernandez

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 18:00:00 -0700

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A Jew, Two Jewish Latinas, and a gay Latino mass shooting survivor walk into a podcast… and 3 of them are related! In this unique episode of Being Jewish, Jonah sits down with Arizona legislators Consuelo, Alma, and Daniel Hernandez—three powerhouse siblings shaping Arizona’s Democratic party. Together, they are living proof that representation matters—and that activism starts at home.

🕊️ Alma and Consuelo, the first Jewish Latinas electeds to American political history, share their intimate journeys of converting to Judaism—the backlash they’ve faced and how their experiences as women of color shape their tireless advocacy for inclusivity and equality for all.

🏛️ Daniel, known for his pivotal role in saving Congresswoman Gabby Giffords' life and currently running for Congress in Arizona’s 7th district Special Election, opens up about his life in public service, his commitment to his LGBTQ+ community, and his unbridled passion for Israel and Jewish culture - despite not technically being Jewish himself!

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a testament to what’s possible when you choose to show up, speak out, and lead with your full authentic self. Come get inspired!

Watch the full episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishPodcast: https://youtu.be/1hYHlqW5DyY

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

MENTIONED IN EPISODE

REPLAY: “Bad Jews” + CNN Analyst & Activist Van Jones

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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It’s Spring Break! So this week we’re bringing you a replay of our Webby & RCC Wilbur Award-winning episode with Van Jones - with whom Jonah will once again be sitting down with for a Passover “Freedom Seder” this week, almost one year to the day from the first Seder where they met. We’ll be back with all new-episodes next week!

Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast: https://youtu.be/ZR0qUIUGAKM

Host & Production Team

All Things Passover with Author Dara Horn (PART TWO)

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Shakespeare hated Jews?? In Part 2 of Jonah Platt’s fascinating conversation with acclaimed author Dara Horn, they dive deep into:

📚 The antisemitism embedded in classic literature — from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice to Roald Dahl’s The Witches
📖 Dara’s entire body of fiction work and what inspires her stories
🍷 Her famously elaborate Passover Seders
🎉 A slew of other fun and thought-provoking Jewish questions
🐐 And of course… her new children’s book One Little Goat — out now!

This episode is a must-listen and watch for lovers of Jewish culture, literature, and tradition — and for anyone seeking deeper insights into how Judaism shows up in the stories we tell and the ones we inherit.

Watch the episode at @BeingJewishPodcast: https://youtu.be/-Hv3F7nV2M8!

All things Jonah:

Host & Production Team

Mentioned In The Episode

GET DARA’S NEW BOOK! One Small Goat: A Passover Catastrophe by Dara Horn: https://a.co/d/a54x1wz
www.darahorn.com
Dara Horn is Obsessed with Passover - Hadassah Magazine Article
Chad Gadya Lyrics Explained
Capacity: A Comic by Theo Ellsworth
People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn
In The Image by Dara Horn
All Other Nights by Dara Horn
Eternal Life by Dara Horn
Pre Order As A Jew by Sarah Hurwitz
The Jewish History of Tzfat, Israel
Who Doesn’t Love Roald Dahl? By Dara Horn
Roald Dahl’s Active Antisemitism
- https://www.roalddahlmuseum.org/our-story/anti-racism-statement/
- https://forward.com/fast-forward/349771/roald-dahls-family-has-apologized-for-his-jew-hatred-what-were-the-5-worst/
Dr. Nathan Winter’s Book: Jewish Education in a Pluralist Society
Dr. Einat Wilf
Yossi Klein Halevi
Author Matti Friedman
Yiddish Hero Avraham Sutzkever
Nuremberg Trial Testimony of Avrom Sutzkever
Book: From The Vilna Ghetto to Nuremberg: Memoir and Testimony by Abraham Sutzkever & Justin Cammy
The Paper Brigade & The Holocaust
YIVO Institute for Jewish Research

Three Passover Reflections & “People Love Dead Jews” author Dara Horn (PART ONE)

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Is the world more comfortable with dead Jews than living ones? In this powerful conversation, bestselling author Dara Horn (People Love Dead Jews) joins Being Jewish with Jonah Platt to discuss the origins of antisemitism, how it manifests today—including on college campuses—and why Holocaust education may be doing Jews more harm than good.

Dara and Jonah also explore the role of Jews as history’s great non-conformists, the truth about Zionism and… ancient Greek reverse circumcisions?! If you want to understand the real story behind antisemitism, Jewish resilience, Israel, and why these issues matter more than ever, don’t miss this episode!

Check out Dara Horn’s newest book, One Little Goat: A Passover Catastrophe

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZxS8iATYQqY

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My Struggle with God & Comedian Tiffany Haddish

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Emmy and Grammy-winning comedian Tiffany Haddish opens up about discovering Judaism as an adult and having her “Black Mitzvah” at age 40! She covers all her toughest struggles in this raw and unfiltered conversation—from growing up in foster care, her mother’s tragic accident, to fighting her way to the top of Hollywood stardom. But one of her biggest personal revelations? Discovering her Jewish roots.

From sleeping in her car to selling out Netflix comedy specials to headlining blockbuster movies like “Girl Trip,” Tiffany gets real about her journey to embracing Judaism, reuniting with her African Jewish father, and what it means to navigate the world as both Black and Jewish. From Bat Mitzvah dancer to a Bat Mitzvah herself, what has faith taught her about resilience, success, and staying true to herself? This is one episode you don’t want to miss.

EXPLICIT LANGUAGE* This episode features more F bombs than usual son we just wanted to give y'all a heads up!

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5QccpVosg3A

All things Jonah:

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

Mentioned the Episode

I’m Not Talking About Mahmoud Khalil & Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Female Business Leader Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Facebook and VP of Google, opens up about God, grief, resilience, and ambition. She discusses her experience in Big Tech, embracing her Jewish identity, the terrifying silence from allies after October 7, and the harrowing stories of sexual violence against Israeli women in her documentary “Screams Before Silence.” Sheryl also reflects on the lessons from her books Lean In and Option B, and shares never-before-told stories of how she found strength after the tragic loss of her husband.

Watch this episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishPodcast

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Host & Production Team

Mentioned the Episode

Reflection from The Oscars & Wicked Producer Marc Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700

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Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hlknXe8OSAU

Hollywood and Broadway producing legend Marc Platt (Wicked, La La Land, Legally Blonde) sits down with his son Jonah Platt for an intimate and powerful conversation on Jewish identity, Hollywood, and storytelling. In this special episode, Marc shares:

📍 Growing up Jewish in segregated Baltimore and the values of justice, inclusivity, and giving back instilled by his parents
🎭 The Jewish themes in Wicked and what it’s like to produce a once-in-a-lifetime Broadway show
🎬 Developing the groundbreaking film Philadelphia and pushing for social change in Hollywood
🏆 His experience at the 97th Academy Awards and how the industry is evolving, and not always for the better
🎤 Why so many Hollywood Jews have been silent since October 7th—and his take on private vs. public responses to antisemitism
🕊️ How trauma and loss deepened his connection to God and Jewish faith, shaping his outlook on life

Marc’s legendary career in entertainment and deep-rooted Jewish values make for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation. If you love theater, film, Jewish culture, and honest discussions about Hollywood, this episode is for you!

🔔 Like, comment & subscribe for more deep dives into Jewish life, history, and entertainment! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDHMkJLWNyQMS9HM9Y4N2bw?sub_confirmation=1

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Mentioned in Episode

2000 Years of Jew Hatred & Australian Journalist Erin Molan

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with Australian broadcaster Erin Molan, an award-winning journalist, television presenter, and outspoken advocate for Israel. Known for her fearless commentary and sharp insights, Erin shares her unexpected journey—from having no Jewish friends to becoming one of Israel’s strongest international allies. She opens up about her career transformation—from sports journalism, covering rugby and Australian football, to reporting on global affairs, terrorism, and the Israel-Gaza conflict. Erin discusses her decision to call out terrorism, challenge media bias against Israel, and stand in unapologetic support of the Jewish people when many others stayed silent. For the past 17 months, Molan has been an unwavering voice in the conversation on Israel and Gaza, driven by a deep sense of morality, her father’s influence, and her firsthand experience in Israel. She also shares insights from her recent meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, reflecting on the importance of allyship, media responsibility and combating misinformation. This must-watch interview explores the power of journalistic integrity, the challenges of speaking up in today’s media landscape, and what it truly means to stand against antisemitism and terrorism.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Our Guest
Erin Molan: https://www.instagram.com/erin_molan/

Host & Production Team

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Mentioned in Episode

The Sound of Silence & Shoe Legend Stuart Weitzman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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He’s a mogul, he’s a “macher” and most importantly … a mensch. Fashion designer and Jewish philanthropist Stuart Weitzman will steal your heart as he joins Jonah to discuss the two things most dear to his heart: Shoes and Jews. Beginning with an insightful conversation around career lessons and principles, Weitzman shares paramount advice on what it takes to be successful in nearly any industry or pursuit. Additionally, he shares his deep and unbreakable connection to Israel and the Jewish community worldwide. “When it comes to Israel, I laugh for them and I cry for them,” Weitzman says. “And I feel bad for anyone who doesn’t feel the same.” From participating in the Maccabiah games to speaking out against antisemitism on college campuses and building a Jewish museum in Spain, Weitzman’s connections and commitment to the Jewish cause is undeniable, and an inspiration to all. Kick off your shoes, grab a seat and check out this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

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Host & Production Team

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Mentioned in Episode

The Normalization of Jew Hatred & Presidential Speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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Like many American Jews, formal religious education for Sarah Hurwitz ended with her Bat Mitzvah at age 13. But after an unbelievable career as a Speechwriter for some of the nation’s most influential Democratic leaders (including Hilary Clinton, President Barack Obama, and First Lady Michelle Obama), she found herself searching for a deeper meaning in life, only to discover that Judaism held all the wisdom for which she was looking– It was Here All Along, which is what Hurwitz named her brilliant book about her Jewish journey, the focus of her deep and thought provoking conversation with Jonah in this week's episode. They tackle the problems with modern Jewish education, the disappointing internalized self-hate of some American Jews, and the miraculous power of Jewish textual study. Hurwitz also opens up about her current college speaking tour, launched just days after the October 7th Hamas attacks, and shares invaluable advice for Jewish students and parents navigating the horrific anti-Jew climate on American campuses today. Rich with valuable insight, humor, and introspection, Sarah and Jonah bring their passion for the beauty of all things Jewish to this very special episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

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Mentioned in Episode

Going “Full Jew” & Covid Vaccine Inventor Dr. Drew Weissman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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One of the fundamental values in Judaism is Tikkun Olam, or “Repairing the world.” On this week’s episode, Jonah sits down with Dr. Drew Weissman, co-recipient of the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his creation of the life-saving Covid vaccine - talk about repairing the world, literally! Dr. Weissman teaches Jonah the basics of mRNA, the truth about RFK Jr., and the intersection of anti-vaxxers and antisemitism. Finally, a science class that definitely doesn’t feel like homework! Don’t miss hearing from humanity’s hero in this exclusive conversation, only on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT.

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Host & Production Team

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Mentioned in Episode

Bringing Back The Hostages & Social Media Megastar Baby Ariel Martin

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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With over 50 million followers across platforms, “Baby” Ariel Martin is one TikTok’s first homegrown stars. Known for her high energy lip-sync videos and youthful antics, Ariel’s career took a sharp turn after October 7th, when she witnessed the explosion of anti-Jew hate around the world and the silence from friends she’d so often stood by in the past. In today’s conversation, Ariel sits down with Jonah to discuss her newfound advocacy, her unique Israeli/Latin American Jewish heritage, and her decision to double-tap into her Jewish identity and use her enormous platform to inspire and empower others every day. Providing both practical tools and personal anecdotes, Ariel proves herself to be a modern day Maccabee, embracing the responsibility of standing up for her people where so many others with similar careers have not. Tune in for this inspiring and insightful conversation you won’t hear anywhere, on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT.

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Connect with Ariel Martin:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babyariel/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@babyariel?lang=en

Host & Production Team

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Redefining Zionism & Canada's Anti-Israel Problem with Liberal MP Anthony Housefather

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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Last year, Canadian Liberal Member of Parliament Anthony Housefather, a loud and proud Jewish political leader for many years, passionately denounced a virulently anti-Israel House resolution and even voted against his own party on it. His defiant and eloquent oration was the “speech heard ‘round the Jewish world,” inspiring others to take similar stands in their own communities. Today, Housefather joins Jonah to discuss the shocking challenges that face the Canadian Jewish community, while offering expert insights and genuine hope on how to move forward towards a safer, more stable future. Together, they discuss the importance of holding political parties accountable, pushing for change from within, and always being proud of who you are. They also chat about the truth behind Trudeau’s ouster, Montreal’s rich Jewish history, and bagels! Tune in for this eye-opening and enlightening conversation you won’t hear anywhere else than on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT.

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/anthony.housefather/

Connect with Anthony:

https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/parliamentary-secretaries/anthony-housefather

Host & Production Team

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Mentioned in Episode

Preserving Jewish Unity & NBA Champion Metta Sandiford-Artest

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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Former NBA Defensive Player of the Year and NBA champion Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly known as both Ron Artest and Metta World Peace) joins Jonah to delve into the complexities of what it means to be misunderstood, as Metta has been for much of his life, and as the Jewish community has been for centuries. Together, they explore Metta’s incredible personal growth journey, his desire to spread happiness, and his mission to better understand different cultures. Jonah also sheds light on Metta’s strong support for the Jewish community after October 7th, his tumultuous childhood, and the meaning behind each of his public name changes. And of course, we celebrate many of Metta’s most iconic basketball moments: from being drafted to the NBA right out of the Queensbridge projects, to the infamous "Malice at the Palace" to championship sealing game winners, this conversation has all your favorite hoop highlights. Tune in for a heartfelt and hilarious conversation with the one and only Metta Sandiford-Artest.

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/mettaworldpeace37/

Connect with Metta:

https://x.com/MettaWorld37?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards and Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild.

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Mentioned in Episode

A City on Fire and Congressman Ritchie Torres

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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In this highly-anticipated episode of Being Jewish, Jonah speaks with New York Congressmen Ritchie Torres about a wide range of issues including anti-Israel hate, the future of the Democratic party, and the soul of America. Torres, who has devoted much of his 10+ year career in politics to fighting anti-Jew hate and defending the State of Israel, opens up about his trips to the Holy Land, the lessons learned there and the broad, pragmatic reasons behind his unwavering loyalty and support for the Jewish state and people. Together, Jonah and Torres discuss the Biden Administration’s handling of the ongoing war in the Middle East, their thoughts on Donald Trump’s incoming administration, and the challenges that may lie ahead. Throughout this conversation, Torres offers hope, insight, and even a few Yiddish and Hebrew gems! Be sure to check out this exclusive, high level interview you won’t find anywhere but here, on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/ritchietorresny15/

Connect with Ritchie Torres

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild.

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Mentioned in Episode

Los Angeles Fires

Speech & Quote by Martin Luther King Jr.

Richard Sandler’s Book: Witness To A Prosecution: The Myth of Michael Milken

Democratic Socialists Chapter Ask Candidates To Pledge Not To Travel To Israel

Senator John Fetterman

The Church of Holy Sepulchre

Two Muslim Families Entrusted with Care of Church of Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem

Jerusalem Open House - LGBT Center in Israel

BEING JEWISH LIVE - Hollywood Stars & Jewish Advocates Josh Gad, Ginnifer Goodwin & Marlee Matlin, Live from CBS Television City

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800

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We’re kicking off 2025 with a very special, first-ever LIVE episode of Being Jewish! Filmed in front of a studio audience at the iconic CBS Television City, Jonah sits down with Tony nominee Josh Gad, TV/film star Ginnifer Goodwin and Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin in a must-see, brilliantly honest conversation on a wide array of Jewish and personal topics. From their very different Jewish upbringings, to interfaith marriages, to fighting anti-Jew bigotry, to the silence of Hollywood post October-7th, these Hollywood stars open up about their real lives and Jewish journeys like never before. There are lots of laughs, some tears, a few major revelations, and many deep insights into the Jewish experience we all can relate to. Don’t miss this supersized showbiz episode of Being Jewish that’s sure to leave you feeling energized and inspired!

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/joshgad/
‘In Gad We Trust: A Tell-Some’ Book

Connect with Josh Gad

Connect with Ginnifer Goodwin

https://www.instagram.com/ginnifergoodwin/

Connect with Marlee Matlin

https://www.instagram.com/themarleematlin/

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild.

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Mentioned in Episode

The Importance of Allies & Haredi Real Estate Mogul David Lichtenstein

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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Jewish law, or Halacha, is as ancient as it is timeless, providing a fertile ground for centuries of rigorous debate and discussion - and few enjoy this fundamental Jewish practice more than Haredi podcaster and billionaire real estate mogul David Lichtenstein. Together with Jonah, Lichtenstein, who runs the Lightstone Group and the acclaimed podcast Halacha Headlines, explains the different denominations within Judaism and how the Haredi, or ultra Orthodox, navigate Jewish law and life in a vastly secular world. From intermarriage to the internet, Sabbath observance to sexuality, Lichtenstein talks frankly and wisely about some of Judaism’s most taboo topics. Beyond this, Jonah and David explore the uniqueness of each human being and their mission on earth, how a strong moral compass guides you in both professional and personal challenges, and shed light on some of Judaism’s most sacred stories and teachings.

All things Jonah:

Connect with David Lichtenstein
https://www.instagram.com/halachaheadlines/

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild.

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Mentioned in Episode

Holding Two Truths & Broadway Director Zhailon Levingston

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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Broadway director and arts activist Zhailon Levingston has been making waves in the New York theater scene through his ability to challenge audiences emotionally at the same time he is entertaining them. In this episode, Zhailon, who is not Jewish, describes his love of the very Jewish practice of “Havruta,” a collaborative method of rigorously debating ideas with a single partner over a long period of time, and how this intense intellectually wrestling is a far more productive method of bringing folks together than trying to get everyone to agree on the same positions. As artistic director of The Inheritance Theater Project, Levingston reveals deep insight into how collaborative playmaking can be a powerful technology for bringing disparate communities together. In this week’s episode, Levingston joins Jonah for an illuminating conversation on a number of deep and difficult topics, from Jewish and Black identity, to the Israel/Gaza war, to Gen Z’s struggles with social media, to the ideas of “Black Aliveness”. Don’t miss this complex, thought-provoking discussion you can only find right here, on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt!

All things Jonah:

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild.

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Mentioned in Episode

My ADHD Journey & Chef Michael Solomonov

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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5-time James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author Michael Solomonov is famous for his groundbreaking & wildly popular Israeli cuisine for American palates, all of which he dishes on with Jonah in this week’s episode. A child of both Israel and America, Solomonov has made it his mission to bring Israeli culture to the fore by showcasing its diverse and delicious food, a quest that’s grown more complex since October 7th and the anti-Israel sentiments that have followed - even from his own staff. In this raw and heartfelt conversation, Solomonov also opens up about the death of his younger brother while serving in the IDF, overcoming addiction, the unifying power of food, and expert culinary tips you’ll only find here, on this week’s episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Michael Solomonov

https://www.instagram.com/mikesolomonov/
https://www.instagram.com/zahavfoods
https://www.instagram.com/jaffabar_philly/
Aviv Restaurant at 1 Hotel Southbeach https://www.instagram.com/1hotel.southbeach

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).

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Mentioned in Episode

09:11 Interview with Chef Michael Solomonov
34:26 Struggles and Support: Overcoming Addiction
35:21 Exploring the Culinary Ventures
37:32 Introducing Jaffa: A New Culinary Concept
40:27 Navigating Political Challenges
44:16 Reflecting on October 7th
52:24 Comfort Food and Culinary Tips
57:42 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Standing Up To Bigotry & Emmy winner Patricia Heaton

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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3-time Emmy-winning actress and longtime activist Patricia Heaton found a new calling 15 months ago - leading the Christian charge to stand with Israel and the Jewish community in the wake of October 7th. In this week’s episode, Jonah and Patricia explore why her faith demands her to stand for truth and justice, and how she is using her platform to garner solidarity with Jews worldwide. From rallies at Columbia University, to visiting hostage families in Israel, to starting the October 7th Coalition non-profit, the beloved “Everybody Loves Raymond” star highlights the urgency around her advocacy and the importance of rising to meet the moment. Patricia and Jonah also talk about the no-no’s of conservative politics in Hollywood, Heaton’s Irish Catholic upbringing, and her unwavering sense of faith in this no-holds-barred episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/patriciaheaton/

Connect with Patricia Heaton & The October 7th Coalition

https://www.instagram.com/TheOfficialO7C/

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).

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Mentioned in Episode

Giving Thanks & NFL Vikings Owner Mark Wilf

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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NFL Vikings co-owner and philanthropist Mark Wilf opens up about his family’s American rebuild in the wake of the Holocaust, the importance of Israel, and the “family business” approach that has led to so much success for the Vikings franchise.. As a child of Holocaust Survivors, Wilf discusses the resilience and values his parents imparted to him, and how building a strong community is the antidote to trauma. He and Jonah also discuss numerous critical Jewish + Holocaust focused organizations such as The Jewish Agency, Jewish Federations of North America, March of the Living, and Yad Vashem. Wilf emphasizes the importance of teaching Jewish history to each new generation and how sports can be a meaningful vehicle for bringing people together around shared values. Don’t miss this eye-opening and inspirational conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt!

All things Jonah:

https://www.vikings.com/team/front-office-roster/mark-wilf

Connect with Mark Wilf

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).

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Mentioned in Episode

AJU’s Millter Introduction to Judaism program
Rabbi Pinchas Teitz
Jaroslaw, Poland
Lvov Ghetto
Holocaust Survivor Gathering in Israel
Wilf Family Foundation
March of The Living
Yad Vashem
Lack of Holocaust Education Among Young People
Jewish Federation of North America
The Jewish Agency For Israel (Where Mark Wilf is the Chairman of the Board of Governors)
Nearly 30,000 People Immigrate to Israel in the Midst of Ongoing Wars
October 7th Commemoration Post - 2024
October 7th Post - 2023
Nova Exhibition
"All statistics from the opening monologue were obtained directly from internal data via the institutions themselves”

00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflection

00:50 The Surge in Jewish Identity Post-October 7th

01:36 Remarkable Statistics of Jewish Community Engagement

04:00 Impact of the Podcast and Community Feedback

06:16 Interview with Mark Wilf: Jewish Values and Sports

10:33 Family Legacy and Holocaust Stories

21:16 The Importance of Jewish Education and Philanthropy

24:36 Hope and Resilience in the Jewish Community

24:54 Legacy of a Holocaust Survivor

25:44 Yad Vashem: A Beacon of Memory and Education

27:32 Challenges in Holocaust Education

29:10 Commitment to Jewish Advocacy

29:58 Support for Terror Victims and Community Building

31:27 Global Jewish Support: Ukraine and Ethiopia

33:21 Jewish Advocacy in Sports

36:44 Reflections on Recent Trips to Israel

39:52 Community Involvement and Philanthropy

42:22 Final Thoughts and Audience Q&A

The Politicization of Jewish Identity & Artist Zoe Buckman

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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Museum-represented Artist, Feminist Advocate and Proud Jewish Mama Zoe Buckman joins Jonah in a frank conversation about anti-Jew bigotry on the left, both in the United States and the UK, where Buckman was raised. They discuss the progressive movements Buckman was once part of and how they’ve abandoned her since October 7th, while also looking at how the art world has changed for Jewish and Israeli creators. They also dig into the process behind Zoe’s unique artistic style and how she’s channeled grief, both personal and global, to create vibrant museum quality pieces. Additionally, she and Jonah discuss ways that Jewish individuals can deal with relationships that have been frayed since October 7th, while providing ideas on how to further unity within the community at large. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt!

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/zoebuckman/

Connect with Zoe

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).

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Mentioned in Episode

Reclaiming Social Media & Top Chef’s Gail Simmons

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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Gail Simmons has captured our hearts and stomachs as a judge on Bravo’s Emmy and Peabody-winning series Top Chef for more than 18 years! Today, she joins Jonah to discuss her connections to food and family through the lens of her Jewish identity. A Canadian native, she reflects on her Jewish upbringing in Toronto and Montreal and how those Jewish communities persevere today in the face of immense anti-Jew hate. Additionally, she shares her concerns for the future as a Jewish mother, goes deep on all things Top Chef, and of course, sprinkles in some culinary wisdom on Jewish specialties like latkes, kosher pickles, and most importantly, Mom’s Brisket. Together, Jonah and Gail tackle a wide breadth of topics with hope, humor and heart.

Mentioned in Episode

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/gailsimmonseats/

Connect with Gail

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:27 The Power of Social Media

03:39 Historical Reflections and Call to Action

05:34 Practical Steps for Jewish Advocacy

07:10 Guest Introduction: Gail Simmons

09:01 Gail's Jewish Culinary Heritage

12:28 Gail's Career Journey

23:52 Top Chef and Cultural Impact

29:59 Jewish Food Challenge Ideas

31:17 Support and Community Post-October 7th

35:04 Social Media Advocacy and Reactions

42:05 Memories of Israel and Kibbutz Life

46:39 Contemporary Jewish Food and Deli Culture

48:55 Thanksgiving Traditions and Preferences

50:39 Audience Questions and Reflections

56:26 Closing Remarks and Credits

Anti-Jew Inversion & Political Journalist Isaac Saul

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0800

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In this week’s episode, Jonah sits down with journalist Isaac Saul, founder of independent, non-partisan political newsletter Tangle. They discuss Isaac's evolving journey with Judaism - from the local Jewish Community Center to a Yeshiva in East Jerusalem and back. Isaac also lends his expertise to the discussion of journalistic integrity today, and elaborates on Tangle's mission to bridge what he calls “The Perception Gap” between Democrats and Republicans, and the political divide on contentious issues. Additionally, Saul offers unique perspectives on the ongoing conflicts in Israel and offers his election predictions just in time for Election Day! Jonah and Isaac’s conversation offers new insights on bridging civic divides and illustrates how to have an honest, humble and respectful conversation about sensitive issues.

Mentioned in this episode

Subscribe to Tangle! ReadTangle
The Week Magazine (general reference)
Isaac Saul’s Article on Election Fraud
Isaac Saul’s Election Predictions
Article: The Zionist case for a ceasefire
Article “The attacks on Israel, and the response.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Isaac

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikesaul/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Introduction to Anti-Jewish Hate

00:44 Understanding Inversion: A Core Strategy

01:58 Examples of Anti-Jewish Inversion

03:09 The Weaponization of Jewish Identity

04:38 Challenging the Apartheid Label

05:52 Debunking Ethnic Cleansing and Genocide Claims

07:57 The Misuse of 'Never Again'

09:39 Interview with Isaac Saul: Early Jewish Memories

14:16 Isaac Saul's Journey to Jewish Observance

19:54 The State of Journalism Today

29:18 Addressing Election Fraud Claims

30:53 Understanding Political Perception Gaps

34:00 Election Predictions and Analysis

36:40 Personal Reflections on Trump

42:12 The Israel-Palestine Conflict

57:19 Social Media Questions

59:04 Conclusion and Farewell

“Bad Jews” + CNN Analyst & Activist Van Jones

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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In this episode, Jonah sits down with legendary commentator, activist and community ally Van Jones to dive into the historical power and current necessity of the Black & Jewish relationship. Together, Jonah and Van discuss the historic ties between their communities, the forces that try to divide them, and how both must work together to safeguard democracy and each other. Additionally, they discuss the pending Presidential election, the power of activism, and the origin of Van’s name! An eye-opening episode full of insight, truth, and personal stories not to be missed.

Mentioned in this episode

All things Jonah:

Connect with Van Jones

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanjones68/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:16 Exploring Jewish Identity

01:05 Challenging Jewish Validity

02:23 Solidarity and Unification

06:05 Introducing Van Jones

08:00 Van Jones' Early Life and Influences

13:29 Experiences with Racism and Activism

23:20 Media Integrity and Bias

27:08 Addressing Anti-Semitism and Advocacy

34:20 The Palestinian Cause and Hamas

35:23 Personal Impact and Progressive Identity

36:18 Social Media and Public Perception

37:06 Standing Up for All Communities

37:29 Facing Fear and Speaking Out

40:46 Complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

45:15 Black and Jewish Community Relations

The “Four C’s” of Productive Conversation + Jackie Tohn

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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Jonah is joined by Jackie Tohn, one of the hilarious stars of Nobody Wants This, the Jewish Netflix series people can’t stop talking about. From raising Jewish children and intermarriage to Jewish representation in Hollywood, no topic goes untouched in today’s conversation. In this one-of-a-kind episode, Jackie Tohn opens up about her family’s Holocaust roots, the Jewish characters she’s gotten to portray in her career and the ongoing challenge in getting Jewish portrayals right. Beyond this, we learn about Sukkot and the cultural meaning this holiday holds. This episode offers humor and hope while authentically highlighting the challenges the Jewish community is facing.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Jackie Tohn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackietohn/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

Mentioned in this episode

Nobody Wants This (Netflix: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26933824/)
- New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/05/opinion/nobody-wants-this-jewish-gender.html
- Time Magazine: https://time.com/7023404/nobody-wants-this-netflix-jewish-women/
Camp Lokanda (Website: https://www.lokanda.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camp.lokanda/)
BBYO - JEWISH ORGANIZATION FOR YOUTH (website: https://bbyo.org/)
GLOW (Netflix) Episode 25: https://ew.com/tv/2019/08/10/glow-season-3-spoilers-jackie-tohn-interview/
A Futile & Stupid Gesture - Gilda Radner Film
Variety Magazine: (https://variety.com/2023/film/focus/jonah-platt-time-to-spread-jewish-joy-1235758562/)
Erin Foster (Creator of the show: IG: https://www.instagram.com/erinfoster/)
Floaters (https://deadline.com/2024/01/jackie-tohn-sarah-podemski-seth-green-maxwell-jacob-friedman-jewish-camp-comedy-floaters-1235809724/)
CAMP SONG: 54:12 - Kenny Rogers Song PARODY “Through The Years”
Best Leftovers Ever (Netflix) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13563634/
Schusterman Foundation: https://www.schusterman.org/
Beads 4 Proceeds (Jackie’s Bracelets) https://pcfcares.org/beads4proceeds/

01:27 Introducing the Four Cs of Productive Conversations

01:35 C1: Curiosity - The Key to Understanding

02:54 C2: Calm - Keeping the Stakes Low

03:32 C3: Camaraderie - Building Connections

04:17 C4: Compassion - Shared Humanity

04:48 Boundaries and Positivity in Conversations

05:24 Engaging with the Audience

05:49 Welcome to 'Being Jewish' with Jonah Platt

07:05 Jackie Tone's Jewish Upbringing

12:26 Jackie Tone's Acting Journey

14:17 Jewish Representation in Media

20:37 Critiques and Responses to the Show

27:08 Visual Storytelling and Character Dynamics

28:07 Feedback from the Jewish Community

28:51 Authenticity in the Writer's Room

30:00 Navigating Jewish Traditions On-Screen

32:44 Interfaith Relationships and Jewish Identity

36:18 Creating Joy Amidst Adversity

39:55 Season Two Expectations and Personal Projects

49:27 Audience Questions and Future Plans

Anniversary of October 7th + Fleur Hassan-Nahoum

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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Jonah travels to Israel for the heart-wrenching anniversary of October 7th and sits down with outgoing Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum to reflect on the challenges Israel faces in its war with Iran. During this conversation, Jonah and Fleur discuss her tenure in Jerusalem’s city government, and how the coexistence that exists in the city could be a blueprint for the country’s future. Additionally, they address the shortfalls of Israel’s communication strategy and what must be done to protect the country from existential threats. From college protests to the Second Intifada to the differences between Diaspora Jews & Israeli Jews, this episode tackles a wide range of pressing topics that simply can’t be missed.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fleurhassann/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Jonah's Arrival in Israel

00:48 Reflecting on the Tragedy of October 7th

03:43 Encounters and Stories of Resilience

06:39 Unity and Mourning in Israel

09:02 Interview with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum

11:54 Fleur's Background and Family History

22:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Jerusalem

29:11 Diverse Jerusalem: A Melting Pot of Cultures

29:27 Differences Between Israeli and Diaspora Jews

29:59 Understanding Antisemitism: A Wake-Up Call

31:07 The Evolution of Zionism

32:12 Diaspora Jews and Israeli Identity

34:47 The Communications War: Israel's PR Struggles

38:19 Israel's Current Trajectory and Challenges

44:49 Resilience and Hope for the Future

45:30 Celebrating Sukkot Amidst Turmoil

46:28 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

“Shortcut Empathy” + Rabbi David Wolpe

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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Why Be Jewish - Rabbi David Wolpe

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In this thought-provoking episode of "Being Jewish," Jonah Platt dives deep with Rabbi David Wolpe to explore what being Jewish means to one of Judaism’s most renowned faith leaders. From rabbinical wisdom to addressing anti-Jewish bigotry on college campuses, to October 7th, no topic goes untouched. Rabbi Wolpe weighs in on his controversial time at Harvard, his storied career as a rabbi, and his own sense of Jewish identity. Join us for an in-depth and reflective conversation just in time for the Days of Awe and Yom Kippur.

Mentioned in this episode

David: The Divided Heart - Rabbi David Wolpe

All things Jonah:

Connect with Rabbi David Wolpe!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjwolpe

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Introduction to Yom Kippur and Self-Reflection

00:23 Psychological Biases and Self-Awareness

01:06 Shortcut Empathy: A Modern Fallacy

02:36 The Importance of True Empathy

03:36 Personal Experience on Middle Ground

04:47 A Disheartening Encounter

06:10 The Need for Genuine Empathy

06:30 Introduction to Rabbi David Wolpe

07:41 Growing Up as a Rabbi's Child

11:07 Journey to Becoming a Rabbi

15:16 Challenges and Achievements at Sinai Temple

23:47 Reflections on Jewish Identity and Heroes

26:38 Experiences at Harvard Divinity School

30:01 The Resignation Letter

30:50 Congressional Hearings and Disillusionment

34:38 DEI and Systemic Inequality

37:44 Advice for Jewish Students

39:21 Cultivating a Relationship with the Divine

44:18 Jewish Identity and Modern Challenges

51:27 Audience Questions and Reflections

Ditching the Term “Antisemitism' + Music Manager Kenny Hamilton

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:02:00 -0700

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In this eye-opening episode of BEING JEWISH, Jonah Platt discusses the complexities of the term “antisemitism” with guest Kenny Hamilton, a music mogul and former Justin Bieber bodyguard. The conversation dives deep into Kenny's journey towards converting to Judaism, his experiences working with Bieber and Scooter Braun, and how his identity as a Black Jew shapes his perspective on the current social climate. They also reflect on the shared cultural experiences between Black and Jewish communities, and the significance of Shabbat in fostering deeper connections. Kenny emphasizes the importance of speaking up against anti-Black and anti-Jew bigotry, and fostering a community of understanding and support. Join us for an enlightening discussion on breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world.

All things Jonah:

Connect with Kenny!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennyhamilton/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Reframing Antisemitism: A Call to Action

01:40 Research Insights: The Ineffectiveness of 'Antisemitism'

05:50 Introducing Kenny Hamilton: A Unique Journey

07:15 From Radio to Bodyguard: Kenny's Career Path

08:36 Discovering Judaism: Kenny's Conversion Story

09:44 Experiencing Israel: A Life-Changing Trip

15:36 Cultural Connections: Black and Jewish Experiences

25:25 Systemic Racism and Jewish History

26:40 Jewish Contributions to Civil Rights

27:36 Personal Journey to Judaism

29:01 Conversion Process and Reflections

33:57 Challenges and Reactions

41:25 Social Media and Public Perception

46:54 Finding Joy in Jewish Traditions

The Jewish Case for Both Trump & Harris + Social Media Activist Montana Tucker

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:01:00 -0700

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In this episode we are joined by dancer, singer, actress and social media star Montana Tucker. In this conversation with Jonah, she shares her journey from entertainer to Jewish advocate, discusses her Holocaust documentary “How To: Never Forget: A Holocaust remembrance film by Montana Tucker”, her powerful activism post-October 7th, and the importance of unity amidst rising anti-Jew hate. Montana also reflects on her upbringing in a predominantly Jewish area, her career in the entertainment industry, and her ongoing commitment to using her platform to uplift others for positive impact.

Mentioned in this episode

All things Jonah:

Connect with Montana!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montanatucker/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

00:00 Introduction: The Weight on American Jews

00:19 Election Year: Jewish Perspectives

01:13 Arguments for Kamala Harris

02:01 Arguments Against Donald Trump

05:12 Arguments for Donald Trump

06:38 Arguments Against Kamala Harris

08:30 The Complexity of Jewish Voting

10:22 Interview with Montana Tucker

11:27 Montana's Jewish Upbringing

17:04 Montana's Career and Social Media Rise

20:58 Holocaust Education and Activism

26:59 Personal Connection and Authenticity

27:08 Holocaust Education Challenges

27:36 Impact of Social Media on Awareness

28:03 Public Conversations and Media Influence

30:05 October 7th: A Turning Point

31:14 Rallies and Community Resilience

31:53 Family Stories of Survival

33:13 Advocacy and Social Media Challenges

34:06 Balancing Activism and Personal Life

41:28 Future Plans and Projects

43:58 Community Support and Collaboration

Why This Podcast Exists + Actor Skylar Astin

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

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In the premiere episode of 'Being Jewish with Jonah Platt,' host Jonah Platt sits down with Hollywood actor Skylar Astin. Skylar opens up about his evolving Jewish identity, childhood experiences, and navigating the entertainment industry as a proud Jewish professional. They discuss the impact of recent events on Jewish advocacy, the challenges of anti-Jew hate, and the importance of openly celebrating Jewish culture. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about Jewish identity, representation, and resilience.

Mentioned in this episode

Skylar Astin’s Shabbat Special: Recipe for Change: Standing Up to Antisemitism - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj-pWmsOIyQ
Smokey Robinson Mispronounces Chanukah I Cameo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQPXGJIN8yQ

All things Jonah:

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skylarastin/

Host & Production Team

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00:00 Introduction: Embracing Jewish Identity

00:38 The Turning Point: Spring 2021

01:32 Advocacy and the Podcast's Mission

05:52 Guest Introduction: Skylar Astin

07:45 Skylar's Jewish Journey

15:34 Navigating Jewish Identity in Hollywood

21:35 Combating Antisemitism: Past and Present

24:24 Reflecting on Jewish Identity and Anti-Semitism

26:17 Navigating Social Media and Public Perception

28:31 Balancing Activism and Professionalism

32:45 Experiences in the Entertainment Industry

37:45 Personal Connections and Jewish Culture

39:42 Engaging with the Audience

45:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Introducing...Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

jonahplattinfo@gmail.com (Jonah Platt) — Sun, 08 Sep 2024 00:34:46 -0700

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