JLife with Daniel

I speak with actor and podcast host Jonah Platt of the  @BeingJewishPodcast .We touch on a variety of topics related to our current moment in Jewish history.

I lay out a framework for how to think about the Israel-Hamas war - with material that will upset everyone!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#IsraelHamasWar#MiddleEastConflict#NuanceMatters#HardTruths#UncomfortableTruths#BothThingsCanBeTrue#ThinkingOutLoud#BeyondTheHeadlines#CriticalThinking#ComplexRealities#MoralFog#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Join us for a riveting debate with Shaiel Ben-Ephraim  @shaielb  of the Israel-Palestine Report as we tackle the urgent and polarizing question: Is Israel committing genocide? In this conversation, we'll dig deep into the legal and moral definitions of genocide, the historical and political context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the complexities of labeling this war as such.But that's just the starting point. We also explore:Is this war just?What are the potential future effects in the region?Is this truly a clash between fundamentalism and liberalism?Can one be a Zionist and still stand against the war?What role does antisemitism play in how this conflict is discussed and understood?#Debate#IsraelPalestineConflict#MiddleEast#GenocideDebate#Zionism#Antisemitism#HumanRights#Liberalism#Fundamentalism#CurrentEvents#Podcast#NewsAnalysis#YouTubeDebate#ExpertInterview#PublicDiscussionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

In this episode, I speak with Izabella Tabarovsky about the deep historical roots of modern anti-Zionism, tracing its origins in medieval Christian antisemitism and Soviet ideology. We explore how these ancient and modern narratives intertwine and shape the contemporary discourse around Jews, Israel, and Zionism. Join us for a conversation that sheds light on the forgotten past and the ideological forces at play today.For our first conversation see here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5i1c...‪@izabellatabarovsky3215‬ Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Reflections after the tragic antisemitic shooting last night at the DC museum

In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Rabbi Richard Steinberg shares his insights on how to revitalize American synagogues, foster meaningful Jewish identity, and confront the challenges facing Jewish communities today. We also discuss the role of Israel education, strategies for ensuring Jewish safety, and how Jewish institutions can adapt to a changing world without losing their core values. Whether you're a synagogue leader, educator, or passionate community member, this episode is a must-watch.

What happens when a liberal Muslim reformer sits down with a Jewish educator to talk about Israel, Zionism, and the future of the Middle East? In this bold and unfiltered episode, I speak with Dalia Ziada—an Egyptian human rights activist, writer, and director of the Liberal Democracy Institute. We unpack the complexities of Islam's historical and theological relationship to the land of Israel, the challenges of antisemitism in the Arab world, and why Zionism is often misunderstood in Muslim societies.Together, we explore:Islam and ZionismThe nature of claims of IslamophobiaAntisemitism in the Middle EastIslamic Reform movements And much more!Whether you're Jewish, Muslim, or just curious—this is a conversation you won't want to miss.#Islam #Zionism #Israel #MiddleEast #DaliaZiada #JewishMuslimDialogue #Peace #Antisemitism #LiberalIslam

Can the tools of critical academic inquiry coexist with religious tradition? In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with scholar and educator JJ Kimche to explore the tensions—and possibilities—between Academic Jewish Studies and Traditional Judaism.We ask big questions:How do we know what really happened in Jewish history?Is it possible to do unbiased scholarship—or is all academia shaped by cultural and political forces?Can ideas retain truth and value even when embedded in sociopolitical agendas or secular frameworks?What happens when academic findings challenge core religious beliefs—or vice versa?Is "faithful criticism" possible—or a contradiction in terms?Tune in for a deep dive into how historical consciousness, academic honesty, and religious commitment can coexist—or collide—in the modern Jewish mind.Keywords: Academic Jewish Studies, Traditional Judaism, Jewish history, religious scholarship, JJ Kimche, Jewish podcast, critical scholarship, faith and reason, historical truth, modern orthodoxy, secularism, academia and religion, unbiased research, Jewish identity, Torah and science, Jewish intellectual traditionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism #JewishStudies #TraditionalJudaism #JJKimche #AcademicJudaism

Why do some Orthodox Jews passionately oppose the State of Israel—while others see it as the beginning of redemption?Who are the Satmar Hasidim? Who are Neturei Karta? Where does the Messiah fit into all of this? And how do both Chabad and Religious Zionism shape the story?I sit down with scholar Shaul Magid to unpack these questions and explore the future of Judaism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, and messianic belief.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Villanova Law Professor Chaim Saiman about his book Halakhah: The Rabbinic Idea of Law. We explore how halakhah functions not just as a legal code but as a mode of religious and intellectual engagement. From Talmudic argumentation to modern legal theory, Saiman unpacks what makes Jewish law unique.#JewishLaw #Halakhah #ChaimSaiman #JewishStudies #LegalPhilosophy #RabbinicLaw #Talmud #Judaism #ReligionAndLaw #PodcastInterviewFacebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Professor Naomi Seidman about her research on the history of Beis Yaakov. We discuss:1) Woman in Orthodox Judaism2) Was Beis Yaakov a feminist movement3) How Orthodox Judaism rewrites its history4) How does Modern Orthodoxy differ from mainstream Orthodoxy5) Why do Orthodox Jews not like dogs6) Current trends regarding gender in Orthodoxyand much more! Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #beis #orthodox #ultraorthodox #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Rabbi Ari Jun-Ballaban's story went viral left month when he was uninvited to a rally against Nazis due to his being a "zionist"We unpack this story and discuss a wide range of related topics. Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I discuss David Bocarsly's work as the head of JPAC as we discuss and debate the ins and outs of the intersection of Jews and Ethnic StudiesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/

I talk and debate with longtime Jewish professional Adam Fox about whether or not Jews truly have any allies in our fight against antisemitism.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

How much can we actually know about what is happening in Gaza?How should we contend with media bias about Israel?Which news sources should one trust?I discuss all these questions and much more with Melissa Weiss, the head of Jewish Insider.https://jewishinsider.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I talk with the prolific Rabbi Stephen Einstein about conversion to Judaism, the state of Judaism in America, why the reform movement is shrinking, what has changed over the course of his 50+ year career, Trump, and much moreFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levin...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniel...#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I talk with Chaplain Jonah Sanderson about caring for people at the end of life and what they look back on with regret and satisfaction.Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #NoRegrets #LifeWellLived #LessonsLearned #Wisdom #FindingMeaning #LivingWithPurpose

What drives the rise of messianic figures in Jewish history? In this episode, we explore the tension between law and mysticism—two forces that have shaped Jewish thought for centuries. Historian David Graizbord joins us to discuss how social, political, and spiritual conditions create the perfect storm for messianic movements. We examine figures like Shabtai Tzvi and even Jesus, asking what made their claims compelling and why their followers saw them as redeemers. How does Jewish law push back against messianism? And how does mysticism keep the hope alive? Tune in for a deep dive into one of Judaism's most complex and recurring dilemmas.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Judaism #JewishHistory #FalseMessiahs #MessianicMovements #DavidGraizbord #JewishTheology #ShabtaiTzvi #JewishMessiah #ReligiousHistory #Podcast #JewishStudies #HistoryPodcast #ReligionExplained #Mysticism #jewishculture #Zionism #hillel #judaismohoy

I discuss the frustrating story of me trying to host an anti-Israel activist on the podcast - and why my failure touches on broader themes in the current moment.#palestine #israel #podcast Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I discuss the situation of the deportation of the Columbia University student with public defender Luke Rodriguez.We also tackle big questions of Liberalism including the age old question of how to keep Jews safeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #Judaism #trump

How does social media shape public discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict? What challenges do liberal values and free speech face in today's digital landscape? Join us for an insightful conversation with Prof. Vikki Katz, an expert in media, communication, and political discourse.We'll explore:✅ The role of social media in amplifying narratives✅ Censorship vs. free expression in conflict discussions✅ How liberalism interacts with online activism✅ The impact of misinformation and digital echo chambersWhether you're interested in political communication, Middle East affairs, or free speech debates, this discussion is a must-watch!

I talk with Dr. Dan Cooper, Professor of Pediatrics at UC Irvine and Nora Cooper, investigative journalist, about all things Jews and medicine.We discuss:1) Why there are so many Jewish doctors?2) How has antisemitism played a role in the history of medicine?3) The quota system for Jews in American medical schools4) How Oct 7 led to a proliferation of antisemitism in contemporary medicineAnd much more!If you like these podcast please rate and leave a comment so others can find as well!Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with longtime Jewish leader Andrew Getraer about his long career in Hillel, American Judaism, Why we don't talk more about God, and lots of other topics.#god#hillel#israel Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism#Judaism

I speak with @AlonBurstein  about the latest developments regarding Trump's plan for the future of GazaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #Israel #gaza #Judaism

In this episode, we sit down with attorney and advocate Julie Marzouk to explore the intersection of immigration, antisemitism, and violence against women—and what the first weeks of Trump's second term reveal about the legal landscape for combating antisemitism. We discuss the Trump administration's executive order on antisemitism, new federal investigations into college campuses, and the formation of a multi-agency task force to address rising antisemitic incidents in schools and universities. How will these policies impact Jewish students and communities? We also examine Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement, including the Texas National Guard's expanded authority to arrest migrants, and what this means for broader legal and humanitarian concerns. Join us for a deep dive into the legal and policy challenges shaping the Jewish community today—plus what advocates like Julie Marzouk are doing to fight for justice.

I speak with Rabbi Drew Kaplan, host of the Jewish Drinking Show, about all things Judaism and alcohol Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/ #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with April Powers about whether or not DEI is an idea worth saving. We discuss the overall implications, the philosophy of DEI, antisemitism within DEI, and much more Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31   Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism #DEI #JewishInclusion #JewishVoices #StopAntisemitism #JewishEquity #DiversityAndInclusion #JewishIdentity #JewsInDEI #JewishRepresentation #EquityAndInclusion #AprilPowers #JewishAdvocacy #DiversityMatters #InclusionMatters #FightingHate #JewishCommunity #TikkunOlam

I speak with the CEO of Pesach Tikvah an organization that specializes in mental health for the Orthodox community. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/ #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Oded Revivi who was the mayor of Efrat for over 15 years. We discuss the question of Israeli settlements, Palestinians, 10/7, Human Rights , The Jewish History of Efrat, Donald Trump, and much more! If you like these episodes please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

In this episode, I talk with Shai Davidai, one of the most prominent Zionist academics of the post-10/7 era. Shai has been at the forefront of addressing the surge in antisemitism on college campuses, courageously calling out Columbia University's administration for their failure to adequately support Jewish students during these challenging times. Through his advocacy and personal reflections, Shai sheds light on the struggles Jewish students face, the importance of standing up for one's identity, and how Zionism intersects with academic life and activism. We also discuss his own Jewish identity as an atheist.

I talk to my dad, Professor Herbert Levine, about a variety of topics including: campus life, antisemitism in the sciences, politics, loss of trust in institutions, his Jewish upbringing, and much more!

I speak with Professor Marc Dollinger about a whole host of relevant topics. We discuss: 1) The centrality of Zionism in the 1960's in America 2) Jewish- Black relations We debate about: 1) Are Jews white? 2) Why is there so much antisemitism in the Left? 3) Has DEI failed? And much more! Please like, comment, and subscribe :)

Happy Hanukkah to all my listeners! Thanks for all of your support over the past year. If you appreciate the podcast please like, subscribe, and share!

I talk with Jake Stern about his PHD research in formal logic, math, and philosophy. We discuss and argue: 1) Proofs for existence of God 2) Can we truly know anything 100% 3) Is Judaism true? 4) Is philosophy necessary to live a religious life. And much more! If you appreciate this content please like, subscribe, and share :)

I discuss this broader question and its implications: 1) The history of the words Palestine and Israel 2) Jewish life during the time of Jesus 3) Did Jesus identify as Jewish? 4) Contemporary Palestinian identity

I speak with writer and activist Samer Sinijlawi about what needs to happen to create a Palestinian State. We discuss: 1) His article in TheAtlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2024/12/israel-palestine-conflict-resolution-future/680389/?gift=DJ1gI7lSFTVYnm0z1m6jjB3C40YbZec6zWwlhEKiZR0&utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share 2) The Campus Protest movement 3) Israeli and Palestinian Leadership 4) Hamas and Violence And much more! If you like these videos please "like" and "subscribe"

Lauren Merlino is a biology who identifies as non-binary. In this episode we discuss all things trans including: 1) Are there innate sexual differences? 2) Are gender roles a byproduct of evolution? 3) What accounts for the rise in people identifying as trans? 4) Why has the LGBTQ movement become increasingly antisemitic? And much more

I speak with Mem Husedin a Kurdish Independence advocate and strategist about the Kurdish community, their history, and connection to Jews/Israel #israel #kurdistan #kurdish #iran #middleeastconflict  @NationontheRise 

I speak with Yehudah Pryce about critical topics like antisemitism in prison, Black and Jewish relations, Black Hebrew Israelites, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), progressivism, and Zionism. This is a thought-provoking conversation you don't want to miss! Catch our first conversation here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08F5CY4hFn4EgQaXCHKVPb?si=4Bo8Y0MIQcu4TldRDEQ23w&nd=1&dlsi=203a31283d8b4b7b Keywords: #Black #Jewish #Israel #BlackHebrewIsraelite #Prison #Antisemitism #Zionism #DEI #Progressivism

I speak with award winning actress Mayim Bialik about Zionism, antisemitism, Hillel, and dressing modestly in Hollywood. #israel #hollywood #mayimbialik #antisemitism #bigbangtheory

I speak with Professor Andrea Molle about the failures of Europe, the rise of European left-wing antisemitism, immigration, Trump, and the Middle East #europe #trump #iran

I speak with ChayaLeah Sufrin podcast host of "Ask a Jew" about all things election results. We discuss the Jewish vote, Trump's potential Middle East policies, why most Orthodox and Mizrachi Jews voted for Trump, antisemitism, and much more.

Join us for a revealing interview with the Republican Nominee for California's 47th Congressional District. We delve into key issues impacting Californians and Americans alike. Hear his perspectives on critical topics including abortion rights, education reform, U.S.-Israel relations, social policies, and much more. This conversation offers insight into his platform, priorities, and how he aims to address today's pressing challenges. Whether you're a resident of CA-47 or just interested in national issues, this interview is a must-watch for anyone looking to stay informed ahead of the upcoming election. #CA47 #CaliforniaPolitics #RepublicanNominee #AbortionDebate #EducationReform #USIsraelRelations #SocialPolicy #Election2024 #CongressionalInterview #PoliticalIssues #VoterInformation #PolicyDebate #israel #iran

I speak with novelist and literature professor Alan Rifkin about the rise of antisemitism in literature and academia. We dive into the roots of antisemitism in the literary world, its presence in American Jewish history, and explore why it persists even in progressive circles. We also cover issues within journalism, the role of the upcoming election, and the broader impact on Jewish communities in America. Don't miss this deep, thought-provoking discussion! Alan's latest book is titled: The Drift That Follows Will Be Gradual. Find it in bookstores today! #Antisemitism #AmericanJewishHistory #JewishIdentity #LiteraryWorld #AcademicFreedom #JewishCulture #ProgressivePolitics #JewishCommunity #AntisemitismAwareness #JournalismEthics #USPolitics #Election2024 #JewishHeritage #SocialJustice #JewishVoices

Thoughts on the one year anniversary of the Hamas attacks, Simchat Torah, and the Story of the Garden of Eden #eden #genesis #simchattorah #israel #utopia

I discuss the history of Sefardic Jewry, the debate about the Jewishness of Columbus, and why it matters #columbus #spain #jewish #columbusday #sefardic

We speak with our returning guest  @AlonBurstein  about the recent events in the Middle East #israelhezbollah #lebanon #iran #terrorism

To read about Joe Walsh see below https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Walsh_(Illinois_politician).) #trump #harris #joewalsh #israel #antisemitism

I speak and debate with prolific blogger and activist Hillel Fuld on who Jews should be voting for in the upcoming election. #trump #jewishvote #americanjews #Harris #2024election