Podcasts about being jewish

Actor, activist, and “Being Jewish” podcast host Jonah Platt joins Mosheh for a wide-ranging conversation about Jewish identity, politics, culture, and the intense pressures facing American Jews after October 7th. Platt reflects on the fear, confusion, and polarization running through the community, and why so much of today's antisemitism shows up not through slurs or symbols, but through omissions, framing, and coded language around Israel. He argues that this moment requires clarity, context, and calm engagement — not panic and not denial. The episode also explores the creation of Platt's podcast 'Being Jewish,' which aims to expand how people understand Jewishness — as a people, culture, history, and set of values, not just a religion. Platt takes listeners inside Hollywood, an industry where many Jews have had to historically hide their identity. He also talks about the impact of October 7, and why some are now pushing forward Jewish and Israeli stories despite fear of backlash. Also in the interview: Breaking down where Jewish institutions have fallen short in educating younger generations about Israel, and how better storytelling could counter both misinformation and apathy. Mosheh Oinounou (⁠⁠⁠⁠@mosheh⁠⁠⁠⁠) is an Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist. He has 20 years of experience at networks including Fox News, Bloomberg Television and CBS News, where he was the executive producer of the CBS Evening News and launched the network's 24 hour news channel. He founded the @mosheh Instagram news account in 2020 and the Mo News podcast and newsletter in 2022.

"Bad Jews." It's a label thrown around all too often, deepening divides and alienating those seeking connection. For actor, advocate, and podcaster Jonah Platt, it's time to retire the term and focus on what actually strengthens the Jewish community: radical inclusivity. In this episode, the host of the award-winning Being Jewish with Jonah Platt podcast joins Jay to discuss his journey from the stage to becoming a leading voice for Jewish pride. They dive into the complex history of Jews in Hollywood—exploring why authentic representation remains a struggle—and why "coloring outside the lines" is the best way to build modern Jewish institutions. Plus, Jonah breaks down his "Mosaic Shabbat" initiative and shares details on his upcoming film, The Mensch. Today's episode was produced by Tani Levitt and Mijon Zulu. To check out more episodes or to learn more about the show, you can visit our website Allaboutchangepodcast.com. If you like our show, spread the word, tell a friend or family member, or leave us a review on your favorite podcasting app. We really appreciate it. All About Change is produced by the Ruderman Family Foundation. Episode Chapters 0:00 Intro 1:33 Being Jewish with Jonah Platt's successful first season 3:04 Are Jews in Hollywood comfortable being outwardly Jewish? 11:35 The value of accurate Jewish culture in TV and film 17:04 Why are Jews calling other Jews “Bad Jews” 21:38 Balancing making new Jewish projects and investing in classic Jewish institutions 25:18 Jonah's next project, The Mensch 28:52 Goodbye and Outro  For video episodes, watch on⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation⁠⁠ Stay in touch: X:⁠⁠ @JayRuderman⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ @RudermanFdn⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠ Jay Ruderman⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ Ruderman Family Foundation⁠⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠ All About Change Podcast⁠⁠ |⁠⁠ Ruderman Family Foundation⁠⁠ To learn more about the podcast, visit⁠⁠ https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/⁠⁠ Jay's brand new book, Find Your Fight, in which Jay teaches the next generation of activists and advocates how to step up and bring about lasting change. You can find Find Your Fight wherever you buy your books, and you can learn more about it at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.jayruderman.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

As a surreal time in history with confluent sources of rage towards Jews enveloping so many western countries a NYC mayoral race turning into a global media war with nyc home to one of the biggest Jewish populations in the world, yet the biggest hit series in streaming right now is “Nobody Wants This” about an orthodox Rabbi falling in love with a non Jewish woman .. it's as if the world has gone mad literally - so Jonah Platt Broadway actor, singer, musician, writer, producer, director, lyricist, composer, podcaster “Being Jewish With Jonah Platt” is the perfect guest to explore this extraordinary time in Jewish and global history .. From an early age, Judaism, entertainment, and the arts have been the corner  stones of Jonah Platt's life. Raised in Los Angeles by award-winning producer Marc Platt and Jewish philanthropist Julie Platt, Jonah grew up with a deep sense of Jewish identity, creativity, and advocacy. Whether performing for his family or attending Jewish day schools and summer camps, he was immersed in his heritage, which set the stage for his future path. Jonah attended the University of Pennsylvania before kicking off a career as a television writer. This eventually led to a lengthy career as a Broadway actor.He soon became known for his performance as Fiyero in Wicked on Broadway, Horst in Neil Patrick Harris' Coupled, Woof in Hair at the Hollywood Bowl alongside Kristen Bell, and acting in the Oscar-nominated Being the Ricardos, among many other roles.A pivotal career and life-changing moment came for Jonah in 2023 after the devastating Hamas attacks on Israeli civilians.Jonah saw how polarized the conversation around Jewish identity had become, particularly in Hollywood and the media. Determined to make a difference, he started speaking out publicly and using his platform to reshape perceptions, and began speaking publicly.This eventually led him to start his most meaningful project yet—his podcast, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.The podcast explores the rich spectrum of Jewish identity. It has featured prominent guests like Congressman Ritchie Torres, Facebook executive Sheryl Sandberg, Emmy winner Patricia Heaton, Tony nominee Josh Gad, Oscar winner Marlee Matlin, and CNN's Van Jones.Jonah is producing his first feature film, The Mensch, in which he will co-star alongside Ginnifer Goodwin. He is also a sought-after singer and musician, an award-winning vocal arranger, a director of improv and theater, and is currently co-writing the musical adaptation of Lois Lowry's best-selling novel The Giver.Jonah is highly sought after by the media and professional speaking opportunities nationally and internationally.Deborah's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/what.ive.learnt/Mind, Film and Publishing: https://www.mindfilmandpublishing.com/Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/what-ive-learnt/id153556330Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3TQjCspxcrSi4yw2YugxBkBuzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1365850

Noam sits down in LA with actor, Jewish advocate and fellow podcast host, Jonah Platt, to talk about identity, Israel, Hollywood, and why October 7 turned him into what he calls an “October 8th activist.” Jonah reflects on his Jewish upbringing, the rising fear around Jewish identity, and why he now proudly wears a Magen David. They dig into what Hollywood gets right (and wrong) about Jewish stories, why so few celebrities speak up for Israel, and how to navigate tough conversations using Jonah's “Five C's.” Jonah Platt is the host of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. This episdoe was recorded in Los Angeles prior to the Unpacking Israeli History Roadshow. . Mijal will be back next week. Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold 

In this episode we interview Jonah Platt. Jonah is a multi-platform performer whose unique career spans many facets of the entertainment industry. From Tony-winning musicals to Oscar-nominated films, Jonah has appeared in prestigious projects from stage to screen to streamers and everything in between. Whether as a charming leading man with depth, or a hilarious quirky supporting character, Jonah brings his singular blend of humor, heart, and nuance to every role he inhabits. More recently you may know Jonah for his award winning podcast "Being Jewish" which is a nuanced exploration of Jewish identity with the leading voices shaping our world. He has become a leading Jewish advocate and voice of our community. In this episode we explore how to live a proud Jewish life, how to be an advocate for our community, and how the Cabinet experience is part of Jonah's Jewish Journey. We hope you enjoy!

David Harris welcomes Jonah Platt, host of the hit podcast "Being Jewish with Jonah Platt," for a conversation about Jewish identity in America today and the insights he's gained from his acclaimed series.

We are so excited to bring you this episode, which draws on some brilliant writing by Jonah Platt about why we should work to keep on bringing out what is 'implicit' inside us into the world of relationship - making it 'explicit'. In this conversation we tackle the world head on, from the most intimate relationships to the largest scale challenges facing us societally and politically, and we wonder together about the maturity, generosity and boldness it takes for us humans to keep talking and listening to one another. And we talk together about pragmatism - doing what it takes to improve things, rather than falling into trying to avoid certain feelings, or keeping ourselves in familiar territory, or trying to keep things too safe. It's a bold, warm, playful and important conversation - and we are very glad to share it with you. This week's conversation is hosted, as always, by Lizzie Winn and Justin Wise of Thirdspace. Episode Overview 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 05:30 The Importance of Making the Implicit Explicit 10:28 Exploring Resistance to Explicit Communication 15:26 The Role of Patience and Slowing Down 20:09 Navigating Complexity in Relationships 25:22 The Pragmatism of Explicit Communication 30:14 The Risk and Creativity of Sharing Implicit Thoughts Making the Implicit Explicit To achieve clearly understood communication in our relationships, personal, professional, casual, romantic, online, every level of life, it is critical that we remind ourselves to make the implicit explicit. That's the idea. Whatever we assume to be obvious, be it our emotional state, the purpose of an event, or the location of a stapler, we must teach ourselves to assume that it actually is not, and therefore must be stated out loud if we are to be understood.  Why is this important to do? Because the literal opposite is true. What is most obvious to us is generally not obvious to other people, and in fact, they are often making a totally different and wrong assumption than the one you also wrongly assume they are making.  Why does this happen? Well, there are several cognitive biases at work here… Primarily, there's what's called the curse of knowledge. Once we know something, it becomes difficult to imagine what it's like not to know it, so we overestimate how obvious our thoughts or intentions or explanations will be to others.  There's the closely related illusion of transparency, where we overestimate how clearly our internal states, our emotions, thoughts, our sense of morality are visible to others. They're not.  And last, naïve realism, where we assume our perceptions of reality of what's obvious about the world are shared by all. These misalignments happen constantly in our interpersonal lives, and they lead to resentment, misunderstanding, conflict, and harm.  I think at times there are also certain common resistances to being explicit. One… is a sense of, "Well, if you really loved me, you would already know this about me," which is an understandable way to feel, but is really… a failure to communicate.  Another may be a sense of self-respect or maybe self-preservation that warps into a kind of peremptory and self-defeating resentment. "Why should I have to make something explicit just to give you an understanding about me you haven't bothered to ask for?" And the answer to that is, if a greater understanding would be a positive outcome, however it's arrived at, why not just take responsibility to ensure it arrives?  There's also, and I think this is the one that has most prevented me from making the implicit explicit as it pertains to my views on certain public issues, is the sense of not wanting to play the game, of not wanting to debase myself in order to pass somebody's morality test. And also the question of, what does this really change? …  And yet… if playing the game and taking the test opens a door to greater understanding, a door through which perhaps more understanding can then travel through that otherwise might have remained closed, that may in fact be change enough to make the enterprise worthwhile…  So if you've got questions for someone in your life, ask them. Expect that they have questions for you too. Preempt them. Make the implicit explicit. Talk to each other. Talk to each other.  Jonah Platt from ‘Making the Implicit Explicit'  Episode 44 of Jonah's podcast ‘Being Jewish with Jonah Platt' Photo by Priscilla Du Preez

What is being Jewish to you? Join us as we welcome Jonah Platt into our circle. His wildly successful podcast 'Being Jewish' is talking about all the things we love discussing and his vision for Jews in entertainment might hold the key to changing the hearts and minds of the masses. Jonah is a leading advocate for the Jewish community, using his 175k+ social media following to educate and empower on issues of Jewish identity, antisemitism, and Israel. His insightful voice has been widely sought after since October 7th, featured in outlets like Variety, the NY Post, and Jewish Journal. Join us.Being Jewish Pod: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribeW: www.jonahplatt.comX: @JonahPlatt WHAT IS THEJEWFUNCTION - A 10min EXPLANATIONhttps://youtu.be/5TlUt5FqVgQLISTEN TO THE MYSTERY BOOK PODCAST SERIES:https://tinyurl.com/y7tmfpesSETH'S BOOK:https://www.antidotetoantisemitism.com/FREE AUDIOBOOK (With Audible trial) OF THE JEWISH CHOICE - UNITY OR ANTISEMITISM:https://amzn.to/3u40evCLIKE/SHARE/SUBSCRIBEFollow us on Twitter/Facebook/Instagram @thejewfunctionSUPPORT US ON PATREONpatreon.com/thejewfunction

Friday, 5 September 2025   And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! Matthew 12:49   “And having extended His hand to His disciples, He said, ‘You behold! My mother and My brothers'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus rhetorically questioned who His mother and His brothers are. Having so questioned, He immediately provides the response, “And having extended His hand to His disciples.”   One can see Matthew, along with the others, observing His actions and probably feeling overwhelmed by the coming words. Noting that He extended His hand provides a warm and graphic gesture described by eyewitness testimony. Upon extending His hand, “He said, ‘You behold! My mother and My brothers.'”   The words do not exclude Mary and His brothers. They simply make a point that trying to pin down a family relationship based on blood or genealogy as an exceptional excuse to either a right-standing with the Lord or some type of added holiness based on near kinship is an invalid proposition.   Rather, those who are considered nearest of all to the Redeemer are those who will be described in the next verse. When thinking this through, one can see that the cult of Mary, which has so grotesquely permeated the Roman Catholic Church, is completely excluded by Jesus' words in this verse. It is an aberrant teaching that completely misdirects people from what God intends for us to focus on.   Life application: The church has gone through much misdirection, many redirections, and constant ups and downs since its inception. There have always been groups, sects, cults, and aberrant offshoots that claim to be the true way in relation to what Christ offers. For example, the Roman Catholic Church claims to be the true church. Baptism in it supposedly leads to a right relationship with God.   Jehovah's Witnesses claim that they alone are following the proper path that was restored after eons of apostasy. The same is true with Mormonism, Seventh Day Adventism, the Church of Christ, and on and on and on (and on). So many supposedly lay claim to the truth as if they alone possess what the Savior offers freely to the whole world.   An example of this, and one that both started with the early church and that has also arisen in modern times, is refuted by Jesus' words in this and the surrounding verses. It is the cult of the Judaizer, which today is most prominently known as Hebrew Roots.   Everything Jewish is exalted. Being Jewish implies a special connection to the Messiah. People who fit this condition are exalted, not because they have any special qualifications, abilities, or biblical understanding, but simply because they are Jewish.   So much is this the case that some teachers claim to be of Jewish descent even though they don't have any genealogical ties to the Jewish people. However, they know that by making the claim, people will follow their teachings, cling to them as if they have a special connection to the Messiah, and fawn over them as if they were rock stars.   People in Israel hear about how profitable it is to be a Christian teacher or singer and work feverishly to establish themselves as sound, responsible, Messiah-loving servants. Unfortunately, innumerable people are duped by such people because they have failed to know Scripture.   They get sucked into law observance in various degrees and spend their lives trying to measure up to impossible standards set by theological quacks when the avenue to salvation has already been paved by Jesus. It is through faith in Him and what He has done that leads the lost soul back to God. Nothing else will do.   If someone has Jewish blood, speaks Hebrew, or was born in Israel, Jesus would say, “So what!” if their teaching is unsound. He expects us to follow Scripture because Scripture reveals Him to us. Don't waste your time following such people. Read your Bible and follow Jesus!   Lord God, help us to think properly about our standing with You. The gospels have been recorded to show us that Jesus is the Messiah, that He fulfilled the prophecies that speak of His coming, and that He fulfilled the law that stood against the people. In His fulfillment of it, restoration through what He has done is available. May we remember this and cling to JESUS! Amen.  

Jonah Platt er en amerikansk skuespiller, sanger, forfatter, regissør og forkjemper for det jødiske samfunnet. Han er mest kjent for sin rolle i TV-serien Being the Ricardos, i Uncoupled, og for å ha spilt Fiyero i Broadway-musikalen Wicked, i tillegg til sitt arbeid innen teater, fjernsyn og som vokalarrangør og produsent.Platt er en svært synlig forkjemper for det jødiske samfunnet, der han leder diskusjoner, holder foredrag på arrangementer og bruker sin plattform til å styrke og opplyse om jødiske spørsmål.Nylig lanserte han podkasten Being Jewish with Jonah Platt for å fremme samtaler om jødisk identitet og samhold, spesielt i kjølvannet av terrorangrepene 7. oktober.English info:Jonah Platt is a multi-talented American actor, singer, writer, director, and Jewish community advocate, best known for his role in the tv series "Being the Ricardos", in "Uncoupled", and playing Fiyero in the Broadway musical "Wicked", as well as for his work in theater, television, and as a vocal arranger and producer. Platt is a highly visible advocate for the Jewish community, leading discussions, speaking at events, and using his platform to empower and educate on Jewish issues.He recently launched the “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” podcast to foster conversations about Jewish identity and unity, especially following the October 7 terror attacks.► SUPPORT HENRIK BECKHEIM PODCASTIf you wish to support the work of this podcast, please become a subscriber. Also feel free to donate an amount of your choosing:➡ ⁠⁠PayPal⁠⁠➡ ⁠Vipps⁠ (Norway only) donér til: Vippsnummer: #823278► Advertise on The Henrik Beckheim Podcast post@henrikbeckheim.no ► Shop Merch here -  https://henrikbeckheim.com/store► Review/rating:Please feel free to leave a review on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠. ► Links:⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ | Official website | ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Podimo⁠ | ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Apple⁠

Libertarianism, Odysee and matriarchal Judaism.Canadian climate lockdowns.Fiveish is a real TV show.Victimhood is the currency of our time. Fighting the victimhood mentality.American's don't know how to protest properly.Having sex with dragons.Lite thine eye be single, perspective adds 30 points of IQ, focusing on problems.Sumo justifies not returning the shopping cart. Rebelling against surrogate morality.Interview with Jeremy KauffmanGiving Libertarianism another try.Free markets and automation.The Free State movement in New Hampshire.Evolutionary effects of culture. Diversity and cultural values.Being Jewish.Another Fiveish discussion.Envy.Majority black neighborhoods.Personal morality perspectives.Odysee, the blockchain and securities, legal frustrations and grey areas.An explosion of prostitution.Where does Jeremy's morality come from?Where is the best place to live?More Linkswww.MAPSOC.orgFollow Sumo on TwitterAlternate Current RadioSupport the Show!Subscribe to the Podcast on GumroadSubscribe to the Podcast on PatreonBuy Us a Tibetan Herbal TeaSumo's SubstacksHoly is He Who WrestlesModern Pulp

No Other Land (2024) is the Oscar-winning documentary that shows the brutal destruction of a Palestinian community in the occupied West Bank. Recorded between 2019 to 2023, the film tells the story of Basel Adra, a young Palestinian activist, who has been protesting the Israeli army's destruction of homes and eviction of villagers. Adra is assisted by Yuval Abraham, a Jewish Israeli journalist. (They are also two of the film's four directors). To Adra and other Palestinians, the Israeli army is destroying their homeland. The Israeli army, however, maintains that the inhabitants are on land that the military needs for live-fire military training and that the evictions have been duly authorized by Israeli courts. The situation turns violent—Adra's cousin is shot by Israeli soldiers in the days after the Oct 7 attacks—and Adra himself is endangered by his efforts to record the evictions and protests. The film provides a penetrating look not only at a Palestinian community in the West Bank but also at the plight of those being forced off their land--with literally nowhere else to go. [Editor's Note: Since the recording of this episode, Odeh Hathalin, a Palestinian activist and contributor to the film, was shot and killed in a village in Masafer Yatta by an Israeli settler.]Timestamps:0:00     Introduction3:42      Masafar Yatta and the Occupied West Bank7:43      The legal apparatus of illegal occupation13:14    The “Gazafication” of the West Bank20:08   The meaning of “No Other Land”23:21    Israel and the international community31:24    The crackdown on free speech in the United States and in Israel34:41    A complex story of an Israeli-Palestinian friendship41:18     The power of images43:07    Growing Israeli indifference to Gaza and the West Bank after Oct. 748:30    The film's reception in Israel 49:53    Law-based criticism of Israel and antisemitism Further reading:Bartov, Omer, “I'm a Genocide Scholar. I Know It When I See It,” New York Times (July 15, 2025)Beinart, Peter, Being Jewish after the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning (2025)Caplan, Neil, The Israel-Palestine Conflict: Contested Histories (2010)Hajjar, Lisa, “International Humanitarian Law and ‘Wars on Terror': A Comparative Analysis of Israeli and American Doctrines and Policies,” 36 Journal of Palestine Studies 36 (Autumn 2006)Kaufman, Anthony, "No Other Distribution: How Film Industry Economics and Politics Are Suppressing Docs Sympathetic to Palestine and Critical of Israel," Int'l Documentary Ass'n (Jan 15, 2025)Khalidi, Rashid, The Hundred Years' War on Palestine: A History of Settler Colonialism and Resistance, 1917-2017 (2020)Lukenville, Mackenzie, “The Only Path Forward: ‘No Other Land,'” Int'l Documentary Ass'n (Dec. 5, 2024)Sfard, Michael, Occupation from Within: A Journey to the Roots of the Constitutional Coup (2025)Law on Film is created and produced by Jonathan Hafetz. Jonathan is a professor at Seton Hall Law School. He has written many books and articles about the law. He has litigated important cases to protect civil liberties and human rights while working at the ACLU and other organizations. Jonathan is a huge film buff and has been watching, studying, and talking about movies for as long as he can remember. For more information about Jonathan, here's a link to his bio: https://law.shu.edu/profiles/hafetzjo.htmlYou can contact him at jonathanhafetz@gmail.comYou can follow him on X (Twitter) @jonathanhafetz You can follow the podcast on X (Twitter) @LawOnFilmYou can follow the podcast on Instagram @lawonfilmpodcast

Send us a textAbraham's family isn't defined by bloodlines, DNA, or ethnicity – it's determined solely by faith. This eye-opening exploration of Galatians 3:6-8 challenges prevalent misconceptions about who truly belongs in God's family.When Paul writes that "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness," he establishes the prototype for justification by faith alone. The startling truth? "Being Jewish means nothing" regarding salvation. The physical land in the Middle East? Spiritually meaningless compared to the faith that connects believers to Abraham.We dive deep into the forensic nature of justification – how Abraham's belief was credited to his account as righteousness, wiping away his spiritual debt. This legal transaction is what happens for every true believer, regardless of heritage. As one panel member powerfully states, justification means we're treated "just as if we had never sinned."Why do so many Christians struggle with this message? Perhaps because we get "bored" with the simplicity of faith. We create elaborate religious systems to feel we're contributing something to our salvation when God requires only faith – a faith that itself is His gift to us.The implications are revolutionary. There's no spiritual distinction between ethnic groups in God's economy. All humanity stands equally condemned without Christ and equally blessed through faith. This is God's true vision of equality – not based on human categories but on our relationship to Christ.If you're tired of religious performance and hungry for the liberating truth of grace, join us for this profound discussion about what it truly means to be part of Abraham's family affair. Discover why salvation is "about a work that only God can do" and why that's the best news you'll ever hear.Support the show

Being Jewish podcast host Jonah Platt—best known for playing Fiyero in Broadway's Wicked—joins People of the Pod to discuss his journey into Jewish advocacy after October 7. He reflects on his Jewish upbringing, challenges media misrepresentations of Israel, and shares how his podcast fosters inclusive and honest conversations about Jewish identity. Platt also previews The Mensch, an upcoming film he's producing to tell Jewish stories with heart and nuance. Recorded live at AJC Global Forum 2025. *The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views or position of AJC. Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: Untold stories of Jews who left or were driven from Arab nations and Iran People of the Pod:  Latest Episodes:  Sexual Violence as a Weapon of War: The Dinah Project's Quest to Hold Hamas Accountable Journalist Matti Friedman Exposes Media Bias Against Israel John Spencer's Key Takeaways After the 12-Day War: Air Supremacy, Intelligence, and Deterrence Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Transcript of the Interview: Manya Brachear Pashman:   Jonah Platt: is an award winning director of theater and improv comedy, an accomplished musician, singer and award winning vocal arranger. He has been on the Broadway stage, including one year as the heartthrob Fiyero in Wicked and he's producing his first feature film, a comedy called The Mensch. He also hosts his own podcast, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt:, a series of candid conversations and reflections that explore the many facets of Jewish identity.  Jonah is with us now on the sidelines of AJC Global Forum 2025. Jonah, welcome to People of the Pod. Jonah Platt:   Thank you so much for having me, happy to be here.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   So tell us about your podcast. How is being Jewish with Jonah Platt: different from Jewish with anyone else? Jonah Platt:   That's a great question. I think it's different for a number of ways. I think one key difference is that I'm really trying to appeal to everybody, not just Jews and not just one type of Jews. I really wanted it to be a very inclusive show and, thank God, the feedback I've gotten, my audience is very diverse. It appeals to, you know, I hear from the ultra orthodox. I hear from people who found out they were Jewish a month ago. I hear from Republicans, I hear from Democrats. I hear from non Jews, Muslims, Christians, people all over the world. So I think that's special and different, especially in these echo-chambery, polarized times online, I'm trying to really reach out of that and create a space where the one thing we all have in common, everybody who listens, is that we're all well-meaning, good-hearted, curious people who want to understand more about our fellow man and each other.  I also try to really call balls and strikes as I see them, regardless of where they're coming from. So if I see, let's call it bad behavior, on the left, I'll call it out. If I see bad behavior on the right, I'll call it out. If I see bad behavior from Israel, I'll call it out. In the same breath that I'll say, I love Israel, it's the greatest place.  I think that's really unfortunately rare. I think people have a very hard time remembering that we are very capable of holding two truths at once, and it doesn't diminish your position by acknowledging fault where you see it. In fact, I feel it strengthens your position, because it makes you more trustworthy. And it's sort of like an iron sharpens iron thing, where, because I'm considering things from all angles, either I'm going to change my mind because I found something I didn't consider. That's going to be better for me and put me on firmer ground.  Or it's going to reinforce what I thought, because now I have another thing I can even speak to about it and say, Well, I was right, because even this I checked out, and that was wrong. So either way, you're in a stronger position. And I feel that that level of sort of, you know, equanimity is sorely lacking online, for sure.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   Our podcasts have had some guests in common. We've had Dara Horn, Sarah Hurwitz, you said you're getting ready to have Bruce Pearl. We've had Coach Pearl on our show. You've also had conversations with Stuart Weitzman, a legendary shoe designer, in an episode titled Jews and Shoes. I love that. Can you share some other memorable nuggets from the conversations you've had over the last six months? Jonah Platt:   I had my dad on the show, and I learned things about him that I had never heard about his childhood, growing up, the way his parents raised him. The way that social justice and understanding the conflict and sort of brokenness in the world was something that my grandparents really tried to teach them very actively, and some of it I had been aware of, but not every little specific story he told. And that was really special for me. And my siblings, after hearing it, were like, We're so glad you did this so that we could see Dad and learn about him in this way. So that was really special.  There have been so many. Isaac Saul is a guy I had early on. He runs a newsletter, a news newsletter called Tangle Media that shows what the left is saying about an issue with the right is saying about an issue, and then his take. And a nugget that I took away from him is that on Shabbat, his way of keeping Shabbat is that he doesn't go on social media or read the news on Shabbat. And I took that from him, so now I do that too.  I thought that was genius. It's hard for me. I'm trying to even start using my phone period less on Shabbat, but definitely I hold myself to it, except when I'm on the road, like I am right now. When I'm at home, no social media from Friday night to Saturday night, and it's fantastic.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   It sounds delightful. Jonah Platt:   It is delightful. I highly recommend it to everybody. It's an easy one.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   So what about your upbringing? You said you learned a lot about your father's upbringing. What was your Jewish upbringing? Jonah Platt:   Yeah, I have been very blessed to have a really strong, warm, lovely, Jewish upbringing. It's something that was always intrinsic to my family. It's not something that I sort of learned at Hebrew school. And no knock on people whose experience that is, but it's, you know, I never remember a time not feeling Jewish. Because it was so important to my parents and important to their families. And you know, part of the reason they're a good match for each other is because their values are the same.  I went to Jewish Day School, the same one my kids now go to, which is pretty cool. Manya Brachear Pashman:  Oh, that's lovely. Jonah Platt:   Yeah. And I went to Jewish sleepaway camp at Camp Ramah  in California. But for me, really, you know, when I get asked this question, like, my key Jewish word is family. And growing up, every holiday we spent with some part of my very large, amazing family. What's interesting is, in my city where I grew up, Los Angeles, I didn't have any grandparents, I didn't have any aunts or uncles or any first cousins. But I feel like I was with them all the time, because every holiday, someone was traveling to somebody, and we were being together. And all of my childhood memories of Jewish holidays are with my cousins and my aunts and my uncles and my grandparents. Because it was just so important to our family. And that's just an amazing foundation for being Jewish or anything else, if that's your foundation, that's really gonna stay with you. And my upbringing, like we kept kosher in my house, meat and milk plates. We would eat meat out but no pork, no shellfish, no milk and meat, any of that. And while I don't ascribe to all those things now, I'm grateful that I got sort of the literacy in that.  In my Jewish Day School we had to wrap tefillin every morning. And while I don't do that now, I'm glad that I know how to do that, and I know what that looks like, and I know what that means, even if I resisted it very strongly at the time as a 13 year old, being like what I gotta wrap this up every day. But I'm grateful now to have that literacy. And I've always been very surprised to see in my life that often when I'm in a room with people, I'm the most observant in the room or the most Jewish literate in the room, which was never the case in my life.  I have family members who are much more observant than me, orthodox. I know plenty of Orthodox people, whatever. But in today's world, I'm very grateful for the upbringing I had where, I'll be on an experience. I actually just got back from one in Poland. I went on a trip with all moderate Muslims from around the North Africa, Middle East, and Asia, with an organization called Sharaka. We had Shabbat dinner just this past Friday at the JCC in Krakow, and I did the Shabbat kiddush for everybody, which is so meaningful and, like, I'm so grateful that I know it, that I can play that role in that, in special situations like that.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   So you've been doing a lot of traveling. Jonah Platt:  Yes. Manya Brachear Pashman:   I saw your reflection on your visit to Baku, Azerbaijan. The largest Jewish community in the Muslim world. And you went with the Jewish Federation's National Young leadership cabinet. Jonah Platt:   Shout out to my chevre. Manya Brachear Pashman:   And you posted this reflection based on your experience there, asking the question, how much freedom is too much? So can you walk our listeners through that and how you answered that question? Jonah Platt:   Yes. So to be fair, I make very clear I don't have the answer to that question definitively, I just wanted to give people food for thought, and what I hoped would happen has happened where I've been getting a lot of people who disagree with me and have other angles at which they want to look and answer this question, which I welcome and have given me a lot to think about.  But basically, what I observed in Azerbaijan was a place that's a little bit authoritative. You know, they don't have full freedom of the press. Political opposition is, you know, quieted, but there's no crime anywhere. They have a strong police presence on the streets. There are security cameras everywhere, and people like their lives there and don't want to mess with it.  And so it just got me thinking, you know, they're an extremely tolerant society. It's sort of something they pride themselves on, and always have. It's a Muslim majority country, but it is secular. They are not a Muslim official country. They're one of only really two countries in the world that are like that, the other being Albania. And they live together in beautiful peace and harmony with a sense of goodwill, with a sense of national pride, and it got me thinking, you know, look at any scenario in our lives. Look at the place you work, look at the preschool classroom that your kid is in.  There are certain rules and restrictions that allow for more freedom, in a sense, because you feel safe and taken care of and our worst instincts are not given space to be expressed. So that is what brought the question of, how much freedom is too much. And really, the other way of putting that is, how much freedom would you be willing to give up if it meant you lived in a place with no crime, where people get along with their neighbors, where there's a sense of being a part of something bigger than yourself. I think all three of which are heavily lacking in America right now that is so polarized, where hateful rhetoric is not only, pervasive, but almost welcomed, and gets more clicks and more likes and more watches. It's an interesting thing to think about.  And I heard from people being like, I haven't been able to stop thinking about this question. I don't know the answer, but it's really interesting. I have people say, you're out of your mind. It's a slippery slope. The second you give an inch, like it's all going downhill. And there are arguments to be made there.  But I can't help but feel like, if we did the due diligence, I'm sure there is something, if we keep the focus really narrow, even if it's like, a specific sentence that can't be said, like, you can't say: the Holocaust was a great thing. Let's say we make that illegal to say, like, how does that hurt anybody? If that's you're not allowed to say those exact words in that exact sequence, you know. So I think if it's gonna be a slippery slope, to me, is not quite a good enough argument for Well, let's go down the road and see if we can come up with something. And then if we decide it's a slippery slope and we get there, maybe we don't do it, but maybe there is something we can come to that if we eliminate that one little thing you're not allowed to say, maybe that will benefit us. Maybe if we make certain things a little bit more restrictive, it'll benefit us. And I likened it to Shabbat saying, you know, on Shabbat, we have all these restrictions. If you're keeping Shabbat, that's what makes Shabbat special, is all the things you're not allowed to do, and because you're not given the quote, unquote, freedom to do those things, you actually give yourself more freedom to be as you are, and to enjoy what's really good about life, which is, you know, the people around you and and having gratitude. So it's just something interesting to think about.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   It's an interesting perspective. I am a big fan of free speech. Jonah Platt:   As are most people. It's the hill many people will die on. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Educated free speech, though, right? That's where the tension is, right? And in a democracy you have to push for education and try to make sure that, you know, people are well informed, so that they don't say stupid things, but they are going to say stupid things and I like that freedom. Did you ever foresee becoming a Jewish advocate? Jonah Platt:   No. I . . . well, that's a little disingenuous. I would say, you know, in 2021 when there was violence between Israel and Gaza in the spring over this Sheik Jarrah neighborhood. That's when I first started using what little platform I had through my entertainment career to start speaking very, you know, small things, but about Israel and about Jewish life, just organically, because I am, at the time, certainly much more well educated, even now, than I was then.  But I was more tuned in than the average person, let's say, and I felt like I could provide some value. I could help bring some clarity to what was a really confusing situation at that time, like, very hard to decipher. And I could just sense what people were thinking and feeling. I'm well, tapped into the Jewish world. I speak to Jews all over the place. My, as I said, my family's everywhere. So already I know Jews all over the country, and I felt like I could bring some value. And so it started very slowly. It was a trickle, and then it started to turn up a little bit, a little bit more, a little bit more. I went on a trip to Israel in April of 2023. It's actually the two year anniversary today of that trip, with the Tel Aviv Institute, run by a guy named Hen Mazzig, who I'm sure, you know, well, I'm sure he's been on the show, yeah.  And that was, like, sort of the next step for me, where I was surrounded by other people speaking about things online, some about Jewish stuff, some not. Just seeing these young, diverse people using their platforms in whatever way, that was inspiring to me. I was like, I'm gonna go home, I'm gonna start using this more.  And then October 7 happened, and I couldn't pull myself away from it. It's just where I wanted to be. It's what I wanted to be spending my time and energy doing. It felt way too important. The stakes felt way too high, to be doing anything else. It's crazy to me that anybody could do anything else but be focusing on that. And now here we are. So I mean, in a way, could I have seen it? No. But have I sort of, looking back on it, been leaning this way? Kinda. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Do you think it would've you would've turned toward advocacy if people hadn't been misinformed or confused about Israel? Or do you think that you would've really been more focused on entertainment.  Jonah Platt:   Yeah, I think probably. I mean, if we lived in some upside down, amazing world where everybody was getting everything right, and, you know, there'd be not so much for me to do. The only hesitation is, like, as I said, a lot of my content tries to be, you know, celebratory about Jewish identity. I think actually, I would still be talking because I've observed, you know, divisions and misunderstandings within the Jewish community that have bothered me, and so some of the things I've talked about have been about that, about like, hey, Jews, cut it out. Like, be nice to each other. You're getting this wrong.  So I think that would still have been there, and something that I would have been passionate about speaking out on. Inclusivity is just so important to me, but definitely would be a lot lower stakes and a little more relaxed if everybody was on the same universe in regards to Israel. Manya Brachear Pashman:   You were relatively recently in Washington, DC. Jonah Platt:   Yeah. Manya Brachear Pashman:   For the White House Correspondents Dinner. I was confused, because he just said he was in Krakow, so maybe I was wrong. Jonah Platt:   I flew direct from Krakow to DC, got off the plane, went to the hotel where the dinner was, changed it to my tux, and went downstairs for the dinner.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   Wow. Jonah Platt:   Yeah. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Are you tired? Jonah Platt:   No, actually, it's amazing. I'll give a shout out. There's a Jewish businessman, a guy named Andrew Herr, who I was in a program with through Federation called CLI in LA, has started a company called Fly Kit. This is a major shout out to Fly Kit that you download the app, you plug in your trip, they send you supplements, and the app tells you when to take them, when to eat, when to nap, when to have coffee, in an attempt to help orient yourself towards the time zone you need to be on. And I have found it very useful on my international trips, and I'm not going to travel without it again. Yeah. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Wow. White House Correspondents dinner. You posted some really thoughtful words about the work of journalists, which I truly appreciated. But what do American journalists get wrong about Israel and the Jewish connection to Israel?  Jonah Platt:   The same thing that everybody who gets things wrong are getting wrong. I mean, we're human beings, so we're fallible, and just because you're a journalist doesn't make you immune to propaganda, because propaganda is a powerful tool. If it didn't work, people wouldn't be using it. I mean, I was just looking at a post today from our friend Hen Mazzig about all the different ways the BBC is getting things horribly, horribly wrong. I think part of it is there's ill intent. I mean, there is malice. For certain people, where they have an agenda. And unfortunately, you know, however much integrity journalists have, there is a news media environment where we've made it okay to have agenda-driven news where it's just not objective. And somehow it's okay for these publications that we've long trusted to have a story they want to tell. I don't know why that's acceptable. It's a business, and I guess maybe if that, if the dollars are there, it's reinforcing itself. But reporters get wrong so much. I'd say the fundamental misunderstanding that journalists as human beings get wrong, that everybody gets wrong, is that Jews are not a group of rich, white Europeans with a common religion. That's like the number one misunderstanding about Jews. Because most people either don't know Jews at all on planet Earth. They've never met one. They know nothing about it except what they see on the news or in a film, or the Jews that they know happen to maybe be white, rich, European ancestry people, and so they assume that's everybody. When, of course, that's completely false, and erases the majority of Jews from planet Earth. So I think we're missing that, and then we're also missing what Israel means to the Jewish people is deeply misunderstood and very purposefully erased.  Part of what's tricky about all of this is that the people way behind the curtain, the terrorists, the real I hate Israel people agenda. They're the ones who plant these seeds. But they're like 5% of the noise. They're secret. They're in the back. And then everybody else, without realizing it, is picking up these things. And so the vast majority of people are, let's say, erasing Jewish connection to Israel without almost even realizing they're doing it because they have been fed this, because propaganda is a powerful tool, and they believe it to be true what they've been told.  And literally, don't realize what they're doing. And if they were in a calm environment and somebody was able to explain to them, Hey, here's what you're doing, here's what you're missing, I think, I don't know, 75% of people would be like, holy crap. I've been getting this wrong. I had no idea. Maybe even higher than 75% they really don't know. And that's super dangerous. And I think the media and journalism is playing a major role in that. Sometimes things get, you know, retracted and apologized for. But the damage is done, especially when it comes to social media. If you put out, Israel just bombed this hospital and killed a bunch of doctors, and then the next day you're like, Oops, sorry, that was wrong. Nobody cares. All they saw was Israel bombed a bunch of doctors and that seed's already been planted. So it's been a major issue the info war, while you know, obviously not the same stakes as a real life and death physical war has been as important a piece of this overall war as anything. And I wouldn't say it's going great. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Did it come up at all at the Correspondent's Dinner, or more of a celebration? Jonah Platt:   No, thank God. Yeah. It was more of a celebration. It was more of just sort of it was cool, because there was no host this year, there was no comedian, there was no president, he didn't come. So it was really like being in the clubhouse with the journalists, and you could sense they were sort of happy about it. Was like, just like a family reunion, kind of a vibe, like, it's just our people. We're all on the same page. We're the people who care about getting it right. We care about journalistic integrity. We're here to support each other. It was really nice. I mean, I liked being sort of a fly on the wall of this other group that I had not really been amongst before, and seeing them in their element in this like industry party, which was cool.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   Okay, so we talked about journalists. What about your colleagues in the entertainment industry? Are you facing backlash from them, either out of malice or ignorance?  Jonah Platt:   I'm not facing any backlash from anybody of importance if I'm not getting an opportunity, or someone's written me off or something. I don't know that, you know, I have no idea if I'm now on somebody's list of I'm never gonna work with that guy. I don't know. I don't imagine I am. If I am, it says way more about that person than it does about me, because my approach, as we've discussed, is to try to be really inclusive and honest and, like, objective. And if I get something wrong, I'll delete it, or I'll say I got it wrong. I try to be very transparent and really open that, like I'm trying my best to get things right and to be fair.  And if you have a problem with that. You know, you've got a problem. I don't have a problem. So I wouldn't say any backlash. In fact, I mean, I get a lot of support, and a lot of, you know, appreciation from people in the industry who either are also speaking out or maybe too afraid to, and are glad that other people are doing it, which I have thoughts about too, but you know, when people are afraid to speak out about the stuff because of the things they're going to lose. Like, to a person, maybe you lose stuff, but like, you gain so many more other people and opportunities, people who were just sort of had no idea that you were on the same team and were waiting for you to say something, and they're like, Oh my God, you're in this with me too. Great, let's do something together, or whatever it is. So I've gotten, it's been much more positive than negative in terms of people I actually care about. I mean, I've gotten fans of entertainment who have nasty things to say about me, but not colleagues or industry peers.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   So you would declare yourself a proud Zionist. Jonah Platt:   Yes. Manya Brachear Pashman:   But you wrote a column in The Forward recently over Passover saying, let's retire the word Zionist. Why?  Jonah Platt:   Yes. I recently wrote an op-ed and actually talked about on my pod as well about why I feel we should retire the word Zionism. Not that I think we actually are. It's pretty well in use. But my main reasoning was, that the way we all understand Zionism, those of us who actually know what it is, unlike a lot of people –is the belief that Jews should have self determination, sovereignty in some piece of the land to which they are indigenous. We have that. We've had it for almost 80 years. I don't know why we need to keep using a word that frames it as aspirational, that like, I believe we should have this thing. We already have it.  And I feel by sort of leaving that sentence without a period, we're sort of suggesting that non-existence is somehow on the table. Like, if I just protest enough, Israel's going to stop existing. I want to slam that door closed. I don't think we need to be the, I believe that Israel should exist people anymore. I think we should be the I love Israel people, or I support Israel people. I'm an Israel patriot. I'm a lover of Israel, whatever the phrase may be. To me, the idea that we should continue to sort of play by their framework of leaving that situation on the table, is it only hurts us, and I just don't think we need it. Manya Brachear Pashman:   It lets others define it, in their own terms.  Jonah Platt:   Yeah, we're playing, sort of by the rules of the other people's game. And I know, you know, I heard when I put that out, especially from Israelis, who it to them, it sort of means patriot, and they feel a lot of great pride with it, which I totally understand. But the sort of more universal understanding of what that word is, and certainly of what the Movement was, was about that aspirational creation of a land, that a land's been created. Not only has it been created, it's, you know, survived through numerous wars, it's stronger than ever. You know, third-most NASDAQ companies in the world. We need to just start talking about it from like, yeah, we're here. We're not going anywhere, kind of a place. And not, a we should exist, kind of a place. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So it's funny, you said, we all know what Zionism is. And I grinned a little bit, because there are so many different definitions of Zionism. I mean, also, Zionism was a very inclusive progressive ideology packaged in there, right, that nobody talks about because it's just kind of not, we just don't talk about it anymore.  So what else about the conversation needs to change? How do we move forward in a productive, constructive way when it comes to teaching about Jewish identity and securing the existence of Israel? Jonah Platt:   In a way, those two things are related, and in a way they're not. You can have a conversation about Jewish identity without necessarily going deep down the Israel hole. But it is critical that people understand how central a connection to Israel is, to Jewish identity. And people are allowed to believe whatever they want. And you can be someone who says, Well, you know, Israel is not important to me, and that's okay, that's you, but you have to at least be clear eyed that that is an extreme and fringe position. That is not a mainstream thing. And you're going to be met with mistrust and confusion and anger and a sense of betrayal, if that's your position.  So I think we need to be clear eyed about that and be able to have that conversation. And I think if we can get to the place where we can acknowledge that in each other. Like, dude, have your belief. I don't agree with it. I think it's crazy. Like, you gotta at least know that we all think you're crazy having that idea. And if they can get to the base, we're like, yeah, I understand that, but I'm gonna believe what I'm gonna believe, then we can have conversations and, like, then we can talk. I think the, I need to change your mind conversation, it doesn't usually work. It has to be really gently done. And I'm speaking this as much from failure as I am from success. As much as we try, sometimes our emotions come to the fore of these conversations, and that's–it's not gonna happen. You know, on my pod, I've talked about something called, I call the four C's of difficult conversation. And I recently, like, tried to have a conversation. I did not adhere to my four C's, and it did not go well. And so I didn't take my own advice. You have to come, like, legitimately ready to be curious to the other person's point of view, wanting to hear what they have to say. You know, honoring their truth, even if it is something that hurts you deeply or that you abhor. You can say that, but you have to say it from a place of respect and honoring. If you want it to go somewhere. If you just want to like, let somebody have it, go ahead, let somebody have it, but you're definitely not going to be building towards anything that. Manya Brachear Pashman:   So before I let you go, can you tell us a little bit about The Mensch? Jonah Platt:   Yeah, sure. So the Mensch is one of a couple of Jewish entertainment projects I'm now involved with in the last year, which, you know, I went from sort of zero to now three. The Mensch is a really unique film that's in development now. We're gonna be shooting this summer that I'm a producer on. And it's the story of a 30 something female rabbi in New Mexico who, life just isn't where she thought it would be. She's not connecting with her congregation. She's not as far along as she thought things would be. Her synagogue is failing, and there's an antisemitic event at her synagogue, and the synagogue gets shut down. And she's at the center of it. Two weeks later, the synagogue's reopening. She's coming back to work, and as part of this reopening to try to bring some some life and some juzz to the proceedings, one of the congregants from the synagogue, the most eccentric one, who's sort of a pariah, who's being played by Jennifer Goodwin, who's a fantastic actress and Jewish advocate, donates her family's priceless Holocaust-era Torah to the synagogue, and the rabbi gets tasked with going to pick it up and bring it. As things often happen for this rabbi, like a bunch of stuff goes wrong. Long story short, she ends up on a bus with the Torah in a bag, like a sports duffel bag, and gets into an altercation with somebody who has the same tattoo as the perpetrator of the event at her synagogue, and unbeknownst to the two of them, they have the same sports duffel bag, and they accidentally swap them. So she shows up at the synagogue with Jennifer Goodwin, they're opening it up, expecting to see a Torah, and it's full of bricks of cocaine. And the ceremony is the next day, and they have less than 24 hours to track down this torah through the seedy, drug-dealing, white nationalist underbelly of the city. And, you know, drama and hilarity ensue. And there's lots of sort of fun, a magic realism to some of the proceedings that give it like a biblical tableau, kind of sense. There's wandering in the desert and a burning cactus and things of that nature.  So it's just, it's really unique, and what drew me to it is what I'm looking for in any sort of Jewish project that I'm supporting, whether as a viewer or behind the scenes, is a contemporary story that's not about Jews dying in the Holocaust. That is a story of people just being people, and those people are Jewish. And so the things that they think about, the way they live, maybe their jobs, even in this case, are Jewish ones. But it's not like a story of the Jews in that sense. The only touch point the majority of the world has for Jews is the news and TV and film. And so if that's how people are gonna learn about us, we need to take that seriously and make sure they're learning who we really are, which is regular people, just like you, dealing with the same kind of problems, the same relationships, and just doing that through a little bit of a Jewish lens. So the movie is entertaining and unique and totally fun, but it also just happens to be about Jews and rabbis. Manya Brachear Pashman:   And so possible, spoiler alert, does the White Nationalist end up being the Mensch in the end? Jonah Platt:   No, no, the white nationalist is not the mensch. They're the villain.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   I thought maybe there was a conversion moment in this film. Jonah Platt:   No conversion. But sort of, one of the themes you take away is, anybody can be a mensch. You don't necessarily need to be the best rabbi in the world to be a mensch. We're all fallible, flawed human beings. And what's important is that we try to do good and we try to do the right thing, and usually that's enough. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, I thought that kind of twist would be… Jonah Platt:   I'll take it up with the writer.  Manya Brachear Pashman:   Well, Jonah, you are truly a mensch for joining us on the sidelines here today. Jonah Platt:   Thank you. Manya Brachear Pashman:   Safe travels, wherever you're headed next.  Jonah Platt:   Thank you very much. Happy to be with you.   

In this episode, Dr. Mike Hart engages in a comprehensive conversation with Dr. Ira Price, an emergency room physician from Hamilton, who recently took over as the Chief of Emergency Medicine. The discussion covers Dr. Price's career journey, his perspectives on managing chaotic environments, and the importance of continuous personal growth. They delve into the significant sociopolitical issues faced by Jewish people in Canada, drawing parallels to historic persecution. The latter part of the conversation focuses on critical challenges in the Canadian healthcare system, including the shortage of family doctors, the impact of 'Safe Supply' programs on opioid use, and the controversial topic of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID).   Guest Bio and Links Dr. Ira Price is a board-certified emergency and pain medicine physician, Chief of Emergency Medicine at a major Canadian hospital, and a long-time advocate for innovation in healthcare delivery. With over 15 years of front-line ER experience, Dr. Price is known for thriving in chaotic, high-stakes environments and for his unflinching honesty on issues affecting modern medicine. In addition to his work in emergency medicine, Dr. Price is an entrepreneur, educator, and creator of FentaKnow—a fentanyl test kit designed to reduce harm in the opioid crisis. He is passionate about empowering physicians to speak the truth, reform broken systems, and serve patients with clarity, courage, and compassion. Dr. Price is active on social media, where he shares bold insights on medicine, politics, and social ethics. Follow him on Instagram @dr.iraprice, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube.   Show Notes: (00:00) –  Introduction and Guest Background (00:30) –  New Role and Thriving in Chaos (01:30) –  Personal Growth and Staying Busy (04:30) –  Being Jewish in Canada (17:00) –  Healthcare System Challenges (34:30) –  The Challenge of Addressing Obesity (36:00) –  The Breakdown of Medicine and Society (36:30) –  Issues with Family Doctors and Patient Selection (37:00) –  Regional Family Medicine Proposal (38:00) – Challenges in Pediatric and Prenatal Care (40:00) –  The Importance of Speaking Up Against Injustice (41:30) –  The Rise of Anti-Semitism and Its Impact (44:00) – "We need to stand for humanity—and I know exactly where that line is." (48:00) –  Personal Experiences with Anti-Semitism (59:00) –  Safe Supply and Its Impact on the ER (01:02:30) –  Medically Assisted Induced Death (MAID) (01:07:30) –  Closing Thoughts and Social Media Presence   --- Dr. Mike Hart is a Cannabis Physician and Lifestyle Strategist. In April 2014, Dr. Hart became the first physician in London, Ontario to open a cannabis clinic. While Dr. Hart continues to treat patients at his clinic, his primary focus has shifted to correcting the medical cannabis educational gap that exists in the medical community.  Connect on social with Dr. Mike Hart: Social Links: Instagram: @drmikehart Twitter: @drmikehart Facebook: @drmikehart  

In 2014, the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks stood on the AJC Global Forum stage and delivered a powerful call to action: “We have to celebrate our Judaism. We have to have less oy and more joy… We never defined ourselves as victims. We never lost our sense of humor. Our ancestors were sometimes hated by gentiles, but they defined themselves as the people loved by God.” Over a decade later, at AJC Global Forum 2025, AJC's Director of Jewish Communal Partnerships, Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman, revisits that message in a special crossover episode between People of the Pod and Books and Beyond, the podcast of the Rabbi Sacks Legacy. She speaks with Dr. Tanya White, one of the inaugural Sacks Scholars and host of Books and Beyond, and Joanna Benarroch, Global Chief Executive of the Legacy, about Rabbi Sacks's enduring wisdom and what it means for the Jewish future. Resources: The State of the Jewish World Address: Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks The Inaugural Sacks Conversation with Tony Blair Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: Untold stories of Jews who left or were driven from Arab nations and Iran People of the Pod:  Latest Episodes:  “They Were Bridge Builders”: Remembering Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky AJC's CEO Ted Deutch: Messages That Moved Me After the D.C. Tragedy Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Transcript of the Interview: Manya Brachear Pashman: On this week 16 years ago, the late Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks published Future Tense, a powerful vision of the future of Judaism, Jewish life, and the state of Israel in the 21st Century. Five years later, he delivered a progress report on that future to AJC Global Forum.  On the sidelines of this year's Global Forum, my colleague Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman spoke with two guests from the Rabbi Sacks Legacy, which was established after his death in 2020 to preserve and teach his timeless and universal wisdom. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:   In 2014, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks addressed our Global Forum stage to offer the state of the Jewish world. Modeled after the US President's State of the Union speech given every year before Congress and the American people, this address was intended to offer an overview of what the Jewish people were experiencing, and to look towards our future. The full video is available on AJC's website as well as the Sacks Legacy website. For today's episode, we are holding a crossover between AJC's People of the Pod podcast and Books and Beyond, the Rabbi Sacks podcast. On Books and Beyond, each episode features experts reflecting on particular works from Rabbi Sacks. Channeling that model, we'll be reflecting on Rabbi Sacks' State of the Jewish World here at AJC's 2025 Global Forum in New York. AJC has long taken inspiration from Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and today, AJC and the Rabbi Sacks legacy have developed a close partnership. To help us understand his insights, I am joined by two esteemed guests. Dr. Tanya White is one of the inaugural Sacks Scholars and the founder and host of the podcast Books and Beyond, the Rabbi Sacks podcast. Joanna Benarroch is the Global Chief Executive of the Rabbi Sacks legacy. And prior to that, worked closely with Rabbi Sacks for over two decades in the Office of the Chief Rabbi.  Joanna, Tanya, thank you for being with us here at AJC's Global Forum.  Tanya White:   It's wonderful to be with you, Meggie. Joanna Benarroch:   Thank you so much, Meggie.  Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:   I want to get to the State of the Jewish World. I vividly remember that address. I was with thousands of people in the room, Jews from different walks of life, Jews from around the globe, as well as a number of non-Jewish leaders and dignitaries. And what was so special is that each of them held onto every single word.  He identifies these three areas of concern: a resurgence of antisemitism in Europe, delegitimization of Israel on the global stage, and the Iranian regime's use of terror and terror proxies towards Israel.  This was 2014, so with exception of, I would say today, needing to broaden, unfortunately, antisemitism far beyond Europe, to the skyrocketing rates we're living through today, it's really remarkable the foresight and the relevance that these areas he identified hold.  What do you think allowed Rabbi Sacks to see and understand these challenges so early, before many in the mainstream did? And how is his framing of antisemitism and its associated threats different from others? And I'll let  Tanya jump in and start. Tanya White:  So firstly, I think there was something very unique about Rabbi Sacks. You know, very often, since he passed, we keep asking the question, how was it that he managed to reach such a broad and diverse audience, from non Jews and even in the Jewish world, you will find Rabbi Sacks his books in a Chabad yeshiva, even a Haredi yeshiva, perhaps, and you will find them in a very left, liberal Jewish institution. There's something about his works, his writing, that somehow fills a space that many Jews of many denominations and many people, not just Jews, are searching for. And I think this unique synthesis of his knowledge, he was clearly a religious leader, but he wasn't just uniquely a religious leader.  He was a scholar of history, of philosophy, of political thought, and the ability to, I think, be able to not just read and have the knowledge, but to integrate the knowledge with what's going on at this moment is something that takes extreme prowess and a very deep sense of moral clarity that Rabbi Sacks had. And I would say more than moral clarity, is a moral imagination. I think it was actually Tony Blair. He spoke about the fact that Rabbi Sacks had this ability, this kind of, I think he even used the term moral imagination, that he was able to see something that other people just couldn't see.  Professor Berman from University of Bar Ilan, Joshua Berman, a brilliant Bible scholar. So he was very close to Rabbi Sacks, and he wrote an article in Israeli, actually, an Israeli newspaper, and he was very bold in calling Rabbi Sacks a modern day prophet.  What is a prophet? A prophet is someone who is able to see a big picture and is able to warn us when we're veering in the wrong direction. And that's what you see in the AJC address, and it's quite incredible, because it was 11 years ago, 2014. And he could have stood up today and said exactly the same thing. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks:  But there is nonetheless a new antisemitism. Unlike the old it isn't hatred of Jews for being a religion. It isn't hatred of Jews as a race. It is hatred of Jews as a sovereign nation in their own land, but it has taken and recycled all the old myths. From the blood libel to the Protocols of the Elders of Zion.  Though I have to confess, as I said to the young leaders this morning, I have a very soft spot for antisemites, because they say the nicest things about Jews. I just love the Protocols of the Elders of Zion. Because, according to this, Jews control the banks, Jews control the media, Jews control the world. Little though they know, we can't even control a shul board meeting. Tanya White:  So what's fascinating is, if you look at his book Future Tense, which was penned in 2009.The book itself is actually a book about antisemitism, and you'll note its title is very optimistic, Future Tense, because Rabbi Sacks truly, deeply believed, even though he understood exactly what antisemitism was, he believed that antisemitism shouldn't define us. Because if antisemitism defines who we are, we'll become the victims of external circumstances, rather than the agents of change in the future.  But he was very precise in his description of antisemitism, and the way in which he describes it has actually become a prism through which many people use today. Some people don't even quote him. We were discussing it yesterday, Joanna, he called it a mutating virus, and he speaks about the idea that antisemitism is not new, and in every generation, it comes in different forms. But what it does is like a virus. It attacks the immune system by mutating according to how the system is at the time.  So for example, today, people say, I'm not antisemitic, I'm just anti-Zionist. But what Rabbi Sacks said is that throughout history, when people sought to justify their antisemitism, they did it by recourse to the highest source of authority within that culture. So for example, in the Middle Ages, the highest recourse of authority was religion. So obviously we know the Christian pogroms and things that happen were this recourse the fact, well, the Jews are not Christians, and therefore we're justified in killing them.  In the Enlightenment period, it was science. So we have the and the Scientific Study of Race, right and Social Darwinism, which was used to predicate the Nazi ideology. Today, the highest value is, as we all know, human rights.  And so the virus of antisemitism has mutated itself in order to look like a justification of human rights. If we don't challenge that, we are going to end up on the wrong side of history. And unfortunately, his prediction we are seeing come very much to light today. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  I want to turn to a different topic, and this actually transitioned well, because Tanya, you raised Prime Minister Tony Blair. Joanna, for our listeners who may have less familiarity with Rabbi Sacks, I would love for you to fill in a larger picture of Rabbi Sacks as one of the strongest global Jewish advocates of our time. He was a chief rabbi, his torah knowledge, his philosophical works make him truly a religious and intellectual leader of our generation.  At the same time, he was also counsel to the royal family, to secular thought leaders, world leaders, and in his remarks here at Global Forum, he actually raised addressing leading governing bodies at the European Union at that time, including Chancellor Merkel. These are not the halls that rabbis usually find themselves in. So I would love for you to explain to our audience, help us understand this part of Rabbi Sacks' life and what made him so effective in it.  Joanna Benarroch:  Thanks, Meggie. Over the last couple of weeks, I spent quite a bit of time with people who have been interested in learning more about Rabbi Sacks and looking at his archive, which we've just housed at the National Library in Israel. Then I spent quite a significant amount of time with one of our Sacks Scholars who's doing a project on exactly this.  How did he live that Judaism, engaged with the world that he wrote so eloquently about when he stepped down as chief rabbi. And a couple of days ago, I got an email, actually sent to the Sacks Scholar that I spent time with, from the gifted archivist who's working on cataloging Rabbi Sacks' archive. She brought our attention to a video that's on our website.  Rabbi Sacks was asked by a young woman who was a student at Harvard doing a business leadership course, and she asked Rabbi Sacks for his help with her assignment. So he answered several questions, but the question that I wanted to bring to your attention was: what difference have you sought to make in the world?  The difference that he sought to make in the world, and this is what he said, “is to make Judaism speak to people who are in the world, because it's quite easy being religious in a house of worship, in a synagogue or church, or even actually at home or in the school. But when you're out there in the marketplace, how do you retain those strong values?  And secondly, the challenge came from University. I was studying philosophy at a time when there were virtually no philosophers who were religious believers, or at least, none who were prepared to publicly confess to that. So the intellectual challenges were real. So how do you make Judaism speak to people in those worlds, the world of academic life, the world of economy?  And in the end, I realized that to do that credibly, I actually had to go into the world myself, whether it was broadcasting for the BBC or writing for The Times, and getting a little street cred in the world itself, which actually then broadened the mission. And I found myself being asked by politicians and people like that to advise them on their issues, which forced me to widen my boundaries.” So from the very beginning, I was reminded that John–he wrote a piece. I don't know if you recall, but I think it was in 2005, maybe a little bit earlier. He wrote a piece for The Times about the two teenagers killed a young boy, Jamie Bulger, and he wrote a piece in The Times. And on the back of that, John Major, the prime minister at the time, called him in and asked him for his advice.  Following that, he realized that he had something to offer, and what he would do is he would host dinners at home where he would bring key members of either the parliament or others in high positions to meet with members of the Jewish community. He would have one on one meetings with the Prime Minister of the time and others who would actually come and seek his advice and guidance.  As Tanya reflected, he was extremely well read, but these were books that he read to help him gain a better understanding into the world that we're living in. He took his time around general elections to ring and make contact with those members of parliament that had got in to office, from across the spectrum. So he wasn't party political. He spoke to everybody, and he built up. He worked really hard on those relationships.  People would call him and say so and so had a baby or a life cycle event, and he would make a point of calling and making contact with them. And you and I have discussed the personal effect that he has on people, making those building those relationships. So he didn't just do that within the Jewish community, but he really built up those relationships and broaden the horizons, making him a sought after advisor to many.  And we came across letters from the current king, from Prince Charles at the time, asking his guidance on a speech, or asking Gordon Brown, inviting him to give him serious advice on how to craft a good speech, how long he should speak for? And Gordon Brown actually gave the inaugural annual lecture, Memorial Lecture for Rabbi Sacks last in 2023 and he said, I hope my mentor will be proud of me.  And that gave us, I mean, it's emotional talking about it, but he really, really worked on himself. He realized he had something to offer, but also worked on himself in making his ideas accessible to a broad audience. So many people could write and can speak. He had the ability to do both, but he worked on himself from quite a young age on making his speeches accessible. In the early days, they were academic and not accessible. Why have a good message if you can't share it with a broad audience? Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  What I also am thinking about, we're speaking, of course, here at an advocacy conference. And on the one hand, part of what you're describing are the foundations of being an excellent Jewish educator, having things be deeply accessible.  But the other part that feels very relevant is being an excellent global Jewish advocate is engaging with people on all sides and understanding that we need to engage with whomever is currently in power or may who may be in power in four years. And it again, speaks to his foresight.  Joanna Benarroch:  You know, to your point about being prophetic, he was always looking 10, 15, 20 years ahead. He was never looking at tomorrow or next week. He was always, what are we doing now that can affect our future? How do I need to work to protect our Jewish community? He was focused whilst he was chief rabbi, obviously on the UK, but he was thinking about the global issues that were going to impact the Jewish community worldwide. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  Yes. I want to turn to the antidote that Rabbi Sacks proposed when he spoke here at Global Forum. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks:  I will tell you the single most important thing we have to do, more important than all the others. We have to celebrate our Judaism. We have to have less oy and more joy.  Do you know why Judaism survived? I'll tell you. Because we never defined ourselves as victims. Because we never lost our sense of humor. Because never in all the centuries did we internalize the disdain of the world. Yes, our ancestors were sometimes hated by gentiles, but they defined themselves as the people loved by God. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  So he highlights the need to proudly embrace the particularism of Judaism, which really in today's world, feels somewhat at odds with the very heavy reliance we have on universalism in Western society. And underpinning this, Rabbi Sacks calls on us to embrace the joy of Judaism, simchatah, Chaim, or, as he so fittingly puts it, less oy and more joy. How did both of these shape Rabbi Sacks's wider philosophy and advocacy, and what do they mean for us today? Tanya White:  Rabbi Sacks speaks about the idea of human beings having a first and second language. On a metaphorical level, a second language is our particularities. It's the people, it's the family we're born. We're born into. It's where we learn who we are. It's what we would call today in sociology, our thick identity. Okay, it's who, who I am, what I believe in, where I'm going to what my story is. But all of us as human beings also have a first language. And that first language can be, it can manifest itself in many different ways. First language can be a specific society, a specific nation, and it can also be a global my global humanity, my first language, though, has to, I have to be able to speak my first language, but to speak my first language, meaning my universal identity, what we will call today, thin identity. It won't work if I don't have a solid foundation in my thick identity, in my second language. I have nothing to offer my first language if I don't have a thick, particular identity.  And Rabbi Sacks says even more than that. As Jews, we are here to teach the world the dignity of difference. And this was one of Rabbi Sacks' greatest messages. He has a book called The Dignity of Difference, which he wrote on the heels of 9/11. And he said that Judaism comes and you have the whole story of Babel in the Bible, where the people try to create a society that is homogenous, right? The narrative begins, they were of one people and one language, you know, and what, and a oneness of things. Everyone was the same. And Rabbi Sacks says that God imposes diversity on them. And then sees, can they still be unified, even in their diversity? And they can't.  So Rabbi Sacks answers that the kind of antidote to that is Abraham. Who is Abraham? Abraham the Ivri. Ivri is m'ever, the other. Abraham cut this legacy. The story of Abraham is to teach the world the dignity of difference.  And one of the reasons we see antisemitism when it rears its head is when there is no tolerance for the other in society. There is no tolerance for the particular story. For my second language. For the way in which I am different to other people. There's no real space for diversity, even when we may use hashtags, okay, or even when we may, you know, proclaim that we are a very diverse society. When there is no space for the Jew, that's not true dignifying of difference. And so I think for Rabbi Sacks, he told someone once that one of his greatest, he believed, that one of his greatest novelties he brought into the world was the idea of Torah and chochma, which is torah and wisdom, universal wisdom. And Rabbi Sacks says that we need both.  We need to have the particularity of our identity, of our language, of our literacy, of where we came from, of our belief system. But at the same time, we also need to have universal wisdom, and we have to constantly be oscillating and be kind of trying to navigate the space between these two things. And that's exactly what Rabbi Sacks did.  And so I would say, I'll actually just finish with a beautiful story that he used to always tell. He would tell the story, and he heard this story from the late Lubavitcher, Menachem Schneerson, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson, who was a very big influence on Rabbi Sacks and the leader of the Chabad movement.  So in the story, there's two people that are schlepping rocks up a mountain, two workers, and one of them just sees his bags that are full of rocks and just sees no meaning or purpose in his work. The other understands that he's carrying diamonds in his bag.  And one day they get a different bag, and in that bag there's rubies, and the person who carries the rocks sees the rubies as rocks, again, sees that as a burden. But the person who's carrying the rubies and understands their value, even though they may not be diamonds, understands the values of the stones, will see them in a different way.  The Lubavitcher Rebbe said, if we see our identity, our Judaism, as stones to carry as a burden that we have to just schlep up a mountain, then we won't see anyone else's particular religion or particular belief system or particularity as anything to be dignified or to be valued.  But if we see our religion as diamonds, we'll understand that other people's religions, though for me, they may be rubies, they're still of value. You have to understand that your religion is diamonds, and you have to know what your religion is, understand what it is. You have to embrace your particularity. You have to engage with it, value it, and then go out into the world and advocate for it. And that, to me, was exactly what Rabbi Sacks did. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  So much of what you're outlining is the underpinning of being a successful engager in interfaith and inter religious work. And Rabbi Sacks, of course, was such a leader there. At  AJC, we have taken inspiration from Rabbi Sacks and have long engaged in interfaith and inter-religious work, that's exactly a linchpin of it, of preaching one's own faith in order to engage with others. Tanya White:  That's the oy and the joy. For Rabbi Sacks, it's exactly that, if I see it as the oy, which is schlepping it up the mountain, well, I'm not going to be a very good advocate, but if I see it as the joy, then my advocacy, it's like it shines through. Joanna Benarroch:  It's very interesting, because he was interviewed by Christian Amanpour on CNN in 2014 just after he stepped down, as she she quoted the phrase “less oy and more joy” back to him, referring to his description of the Jewish community. When he came into office in 1991 he was worried about rising assimilation and out-marriage. And she said: How did you turn it around?  He said, “We've done the book of Lamentations for many centuries. There's been a lot of antisemitism and a lot of negativity to Jewish identity. And if you think of yourself, exactly as you're describing, as the people who get hated by others, or you've got something too heavy to carry, you're not going to want to hand that on to your children.  If you've got a very open society, the question is, why should I be anything in particular? Being Jewish is a very particular kind of Jewish identity, but I do feel that our great religious traditions in Judaism is the classic instance of this.  We have enormous gifts to offer in the 21st century, a very strong sense of community, very supportive families, a dedicated approach to education. And we do well with our children. We're a community that believes in giving. We are great givers, charitably and in other ways.  So I think when you stay firm in an identity, it helps you locate yourself in a world that sometimes otherwise can be seen to be changing very fast and make people very anxious. I think when you're rooted in a people that comes through everything that fate and history can throw at it, and has kept surviving and kept being strong and kept going, there's a huge thing for young people to carry with them.” And then he adds, to finish this interview, he said, “I think that by being what we uniquely are, we contribute to humanity what only we can give.” What Rabbi Sacks had was a deep sense of hope. He wore a yellow tie to give people hope and to make them smile. That's why he wore a yellow tie on major occasions. You know, sunshine, bringing hope and a smile to people's faces. And he had hope in humanity and in the Jewish people.  And he was always looking to find good in people and things. And when we talk about less oy and more joy. He took pleasure in the simple things in life. Bringing music into the community as a way to uplift and bring the community together.  We just spent a lovely Shabbat together with AJC, at the AJC Shabbaton with the students. And he would have loved nothing more than being in shul, in synagogue with the community and joining in.  Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  Thank you Joanna, and that's beautiful. I want to end our conversation by channeling how Rabbi Sacks concluded his 2014 address. He speaks about the need for Jewish unity at that time. Let's take a listen.  Rabbi Jonathan Sacks:  We must learn to overcome our differences and our divisions as Jews and work together as a global people. Friends, consider this extraordinary historical fact: Jews in history have been attacked by some of the greatest empires the world has ever known, empires that bestrode the narrow world like a colossus. That seemed invulnerable in their time. Egypt of the pharaohs, Assyria, Babylonia, the Alexandrian Empire, the Roman Empire, the medieval empires of Christianity and Islam, all the way up to the Third Reich and the Soviet Union. Each one of those, seemingly invulnerable, has been consigned to history, while our tiny people can still stand and sing Am Yisrael Chai. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  In Rabbi Sacks' A Letter in the Scroll, he talks about the seminal moment in his life when he most deeply understood Jewish peoplehood and unity. And that was 1967, the Six Day War, when the Jewish people, of course, witnessed the State of Israel on the brink of existential threat. To our AJC audience, this may ring particularly familiar because it was evoked in a piece by Mijal Bitton, herself a Sacks Scholar, a guest on our podcast, a guest Tanya on your podcast, who wrote a piece about a month after 10/7 titled "That Pain You're Feeling is Peoplehood'.  And that piece went viral in the Jewish world. And she draws this parallel between the moment that Rabbi Sacks highlights in 1967 and 10, seven, I should note, Tanya, of course, is referenced in that article that Mijal wrote. For our audiences, help us understand the centrality of peoplehood and unity to Rabbi Sacks' vision of Judaism. And as we now approach a year and a half past 10/7 and have seen the resurgence of certain communal fractures, what moral clarity can we take from Rabbi Sacks in this moment? Tanya White:  Okay, so it's interesting you talked about Mijal, because I remember straight after 7/10 we were in constant conversation–how it was impacting us, each of us in our own arenas, in different ways. And one of the things I said to her, which I found really comforting, was her constant ability to be in touch. And I think like this, you know, I like to call it after the name of a book that I read to my kid, The Invisible String. This idea that there are these invisible strings. In the book, the mother tells the child that all the people we love have invisible strings that connect us. And when we pull on the string, they feel it the other side.  1967 was the moment Rabbi Sacks felt that invisible pull on the string. They have a very similar trajectory. The seventh of October was the moment in which many, many Jews, who were perhaps disengaged, maybe a little bit ambivalent about their Jewish identity, they felt the tug of that invisible string. And then the question is, what do we do in order to maintain that connection? And I think for Rabbi Sacks, that was really the question. He speaks about 1967 being the moment in which he says, I realized at that moment every, you know, in Cambridge, and everything was about choice. And, you know, 1960s philosophy and enlightenment philosophy says, at that moment, I realized I hadn't chosen Judaism. Judaism had chosen me.  And from that moment forth, Rabbi Sacks feels as if he had been chosen. Judaism had chosen him for a reason. He was a Jew for a reason. And I think today, many, many Jews are coming back to that question. What does it mean that I felt that pull of the string on the seventh of October?  Rabbi Sacks' answer to that question of, where do we go from here? I think very simply, would be to go back to the analogy. You need to work out why Judaism is a diamond. And once you understand why Judaism is a diamond and isn't a burden to carry on my back, everything else will fall into place.  Because you will want to advocate for that particularity and what that particularity brings to the world. In his book, Future Tense, which, again, was a book about antisemitism, there was a picture of a lighthouse at the front of the book. That's how Rabbi Sacks saw the antidote for antisemitism, right? Is that we need to be the lighthouse. Because that's our role, globally, to be able to be the light that directs the rest of the world when they don't know where they're going. And we are living in a time of dizziness at the moment, on every level, morally, sociologically, psychologically, people are dizzy. And Judaism has, and I believe this is exactly what Rabbi Sacks advocated for, Judaism has a way to take us out of that maze that we found ourselves in. And so I think today, more than ever, in response to you, yes, it is peoplehood that we feel. And then the question is, how do we take that feeling of peoplehood and use it towards really building what we need to do in this world. The advocacy that Judaism needs to bring into the world. Meggie Wyschogrod Fredman:  We all have a role, a reason, a purpose. When Rabbi Sacks spoke to us a decade ago, more than a decade ago, at this point, those who were in the room felt the moral imperative to stand up to advocate and why, as Jews, we had that unique role.  I am so honored that today, now with Rabbi Sacks not here, you continue to give us that inspiration of why we are a letter in the scroll, why we must stand up and advocate. So thank you, Tanya and Joanna, for joining us at Global Forum and for this enlightening conversation. Tanya White:  Thank you so much for having us. Thank you. Joanna Benarroch:  Thank you so much.  Manya Brachear Pashman: If you missed last week's episode, please be sure to listen as two AJC colleagues pay tribute to their friends Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky who were brutally murdered outside the Capital Jewish Museum in May.   

Antisemitism isn't just rising in America, it's exploding. And while our institutions hesitate, the attacks are getting louder, deadlier, and more brazen. Just this spring, during Passover, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's home was targeted in an arson attack while he and his family were asleep inside. Soon thereafter, a young Jewish couple was murdered in cold blood in Washington, D.C. Their only crime? Being Jewish.And in Boulder, Colorado, an Egyptian national terrorist launched a brutal assault using Molotov cocktails and a flamethrower on a group of Jewish people who were peacefully assembled to support the Israeli hostages. The attack injured an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor, plus 11 other individuals.The question is no longer whether antisemitism exists. The question is: Why is America tolerating it? On today's episode of Some Future Day, I sit down with Robert Spencer, scholar, historian, and author of the new book “Antisemitism: History and Myth.” Together we trace the ancient roots of Jew hatred, explore how Islamic extremism and Western academia are feeding the flames, and confront the role social media and influencers are playing in amplifying the world's oldest hatred. This conversation is raw, necessary, and deeply unsettling. But it's one we can't avoid. If we stay silent now, the future of Jews in America could mirror the darkest chapters of our past.Episode Links:Website: https://jihadwatch.org/X: https://x.com/jihadwatchRSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jihadwatch.robertspencer/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JihadWatchVideo"Antisemitism: History and Myth" by Robert Spencer: https://a.co/d/12lfxyEOrder Marc's new book, "Some Future Day: How AI Is Going to Change Everything"Sign up for the Some Future Day Newsletter here: https://marcbeckman.substack.com/To join the conversation, follow Marc Beckman here: YoutubeLinkedInTwitterInstagramTikTok

In todays special Friday edition, Isaac talks with Jonah Platt, host of the podcast "Being Jewish with Jonah Platt", in response to Isaac's "I think I'm leaving Zionism, or Zionism is leaving me." episode, which was published last Friday. In case you missed it, it is also available to stream in its entirety without a paid subscription.By the way: If you are not yet a podcast member, and you want to upgrade your newsletter subscription plan to include a podcast membership (which gets you ad-free podcasts, Friday editions, The Sunday podcast, bonus content), you can do that here. That page is a good resource for managing your Tangle subscription (just make sure you are logged in on the website!)Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to ReadTangle.com to sign up! You can also give the gift of a Tangle podcast subscription by clicking here. You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our Executive Editor and Founder is Isaac Saul. Our Executive Producer is Jon Lall.This podcast was hosted by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Dewey Thomas. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75 and Jon Lall. Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Senior Editor Will Kaback, Hunter Casperson, Kendall White, Bailey Saul, and Audrey Moorehead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Hollywood is about as left and progressive a community as there is in this country. And unfortunately, part of the box you have to check in that very left, super progressive space is being anti-Israel and being pro-Palestine in an anti-Israel way,” says Jonah Platt.Platt is a jack of all trades in the entertainment industry—an actor, director, producer, and singer. In the aftermath of the Oct. 7, 2023, massacre of Israelis led by terrorist group Hamas, he launched the podcast “Being Jewish.”He recently visited Auschwitz, the largest German death camp, alongside over a dozen Muslims. He went with the organization Sharaka, which builds on the work of the Abraham Accords and educates Middle Easterners and other Arabs and Muslims around the world about the Holocaust.“Some of these people came on this trip at great personal risk. If you're coming from Pakistan to hang out with Jews in the middle of this Israel-Gaza war, I mean, you could be in real, physical danger. Some people—they couldn't be in any photos and their identities had to be kept secret to protect them,” says Platt. “There were Jewish slaves [at Auschwitz], working out in that kind of rain in threadbare pajamas, starving to death, and having to do physical labor and be shot if they didn't keep up. And meanwhile, I'm freezing in the cold, but I get to go on a warm bus and get a hot meal after this.”In this episode, we discuss how to navigate being Jewish and Zionist in a society that is becoming increasingly hostile to Israel.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.***Disclaimer: One of the producers for American Thought Leaders participated in the Sharaka program to Poland on an all-expenses paid trip.

Today is a heartbreaking and terrifying day for Jews in America—and for anyone who cherishes the values of decency, freedom, and civilization itself.The cold-blooded murder of Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim last night in Washington, D.C., has shattered any illusion that the hate-filled rhetoric we've been hearing was just talk. It wasn't. For those of us who have been warning that this kind of incitement would spill into violence, this is our worst nightmare come true. And yet we still hear people whispering, some quite loudly, that the Zionists had it coming. This was not random. This was the deadly consequence of a climate that has normalized antisemitism under the guise of politics. Some people think violent antisemitism is the result of the the war in Gaza. We know it's the other way around - the war in Gaza is the result of violent antisemitism. In this episode, which we recorded a few days ago before these horrific events, we sat down with Jonah Platt—actor, podcast host, and passionate Jewish advocate—to talk about Judaism, Israel, generational disconnects, and what it means to be a vocal Jew in today's climate. Check out his excellent podcast, Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.We cover the following topics:* From Hollywood to Jewish Advocacy* The Role of Family in Jewish Identity* What's Going Wrong with Jewish Education?* Jewish Students and the New Face of Antisemitism* Chabad, Cheese Plates & Jewish Hospitality* Why Aren't More Jews in Hollywood Speaking Up?* Fighting Disinformation & Misguided “Allies”In the end, Jonah reminds us: don't wait for celebrities to save us. We are done staying silent about this, and hope you can join us. Don't worry about being on the right side of your favorite Instagram influencer, worry about being on the right side of humanity. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit askajew.substack.com/subscribe

On this packed episode of the Marc Cox Morning Show, Marc tackles Missouri's Medicaid expansion, weighing financial sustainability and the push for work requirements. He highlights the alarming rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses, focusing on Harvard's protests and international student scrutiny. COVID-19 vaccine debates take center stage, including concerns over VAERS data and potential side effects. Local headlines cover a tornado in St. Louis, a California plane crash, and violence against Israeli embassy staff in D.C. Marc speaks with Nichole Murray about emergency preparedness following the St. Louis tornado, and Benjamin Smith joins to discuss political silence around campus anti-Semitism. Memorial Day travel trends, a San Diego plane crash, and the economics of mocktails are also explored. The hour wraps with quirky news from Minnesota and Missouri. Later, Congressman Bob Onder discusses Medicaid reforms targeting waste and fraud, while Mayor Jason Law shares his campaign to end vehicle emissions testing in St. Charles County due to its cost and inefficiency. The show also covers the renewal of Trump's 2017 tax cuts, border security funding, and the U.S. Treasury's plan to stop penny production by 2026. Marc and Kim preview Memorial Day weekend weather and pool openings, caution listeners about dangerous toys like Jarts, and spotlight community fundraisers supporting tornado victims. Jonah Platt, host of Being Jewish, talks about the rise of anti-Semitism and his podcast's mission to foster Jewish community. The show closes with Jason Cole from Pro Outdoor discussing landscape lighting and a $2500 giveaway.

Marc and Kim kick off the show with a look at the Memorial Day weekend weather and pool season openings. They dive into a nostalgic and cautionary chat about dangerous toys like Jarts, highlight local fundraising efforts including the Queen of Hearts raffle and the Guns and Hoses drive for tornado victims. In Segment 3, Jonah Platt joins the show to discuss the rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses and the mission of his podcast, Being Jewish. The final segment features Jason Cole of Pro Outdoor discussing landscape lighting installations and details on a $2500 giveaway.

Marc and Kim are joined by Jonah Platt, Host of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, for an in-depth conversation on the recent wave of antisemitic violence, including the tragic shooting in Washington, DC. They discuss how phrases like “from the river to the sea” contribute to growing hostility and fear within the Jewish community. Jonah shares insights from his podcast, which aims to build understanding and unity among Jews and allies. The conversation also explores Hollywood's evolving relationship with Jewish identity, the push for authentic representation, and the concerning trend of antisemitism on college campuses, including actions taken during the Trump administration in response to university protests.

What if the most ancient hate in the world is making a stunning comeback—and most people don't even realize it?In this eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD, Lou Diamond sits down with multi-talented performer, activist, and host of the "Being Jewish" podcast, Jonah Platt. Together, they pull back the curtain on the recent explosion of antisemitism, revealing why it's not a new phenomenon or a fleeting internet trend, but part of a centuries-old playbook that has found new fuel in today's social media-driven world.Key Highlights:Jonah's Personal & Professional Journey: Jonah shares his evolution from a Broadway performer and producer to one of the most recognized Jewish voices online, candidly discussing how personal experiences, world events, and even being diagnosed with ADHD shaped his path.October 7 and Its Aftermath: Lou and Jonah dissect how the tragedy in Israel became a catalyst for a global surge in antisemitism, and what makes this wave of hate so coordinated, widespread, and insidious.Left vs. Right—Understanding Modern Antisemitism: The episode explores why anti-Jewish sentiment shows up differently on the political right and left, outlining how exclusion and double standards have quietly pushed Jews out of certain social circles and institutions.Breaking Out of Echo Chambers: Jonah explains his intentional approach to reaching non-Jewish audiences, offering practical strategies for making Jewish history, identity, and reality accessible and compelling for all.Turning Shock Into Action: Both Lou and Jonah discuss why now is the time for every listener—Jewish or not—to get involved, whether through speaking up, supporting education, or taking part in community initiatives.Action Steps for Listeners:Educate Yourself & Others: Use Jonah's and Lou's recommended resources—like the "Being Jewish" podcast or the book Jews Don't Count—to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish identity and anti-Jewish hate.Get Out of Your Algorithm Bubble: Proactively engage with diverse voices online; follow, comment, and share Jewish creators and moderate voices to help humanize complex issues.Support Inclusive Education: If you're an influencer, business leader, or educator, create space for open discussions about Jews and antisemitism, and advocate for Jewish inclusion in DEI initiatives.Show Up Locally: Attend school board and town hall meetings, and encourage representation and support for Jewish groups within your community and at universities.Don't Wait for Others to Act—Start Now: Whether it's having a conversation, supporting Jewish creators, or volunteering behind the scenes, find one actionable step and take it.This isn't just a conversation for the Jewish community—Jonah and Lou make it clear that fighting hatred and building bridges is everyone's responsibility. Tune in, get inspired, and discover how you can be part of moving “the ball up the court” in the fight against bigotry and for a more inclusive future.TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 "Exploring Jewish Identity in Media"05:07 From Side Hustle to Influencer08:59 Understanding ADHD and Self-Acceptance12:42 Navigating Antisemitism and Identity14:11 Resurgence of Right-Wing Antisemitism18:11 Foreign Influence Fuels Antisemitism21:39 Inclusive and Educational Show Success23:29 Engage and Invest Strategically28:26 Intentional Podcast Success32:05 Struggling to Fully Delegate33:23 Summer Break for Show Expansion37:03 Inception: A Film-Only Masterpiece40:11 FlyKit: Jet Lag Solution Product43:25 Respect Every Role and Task

Two shot dead in Washington DC, in an attack that shocked many but surprised few. Meanwhile, a string of Israel's longtime allies denounce the country over the blockade of aid to Gaza, even threatening sanctions. Yonit and Jonathan discuss what's next and what to make of the partial resumption of humanitarian aid. Plus, they're joined by fellow Jewish podcaster Jonah Platt, taking the temperature at this moment of angst and revealing what it means to be a Jew in Hollywood in 2025—the challenges and the moments of light.Join our Patreon community to get access to bonus episodes, discounts on merch and more: https://bit.ly/UnholyPatreonSocial links, shop, YouTube channel and more: https://linktr.ee/unholypod Jonah Platt is an American actor, singer, writer, and director known for his role as Fiyero in Wicked on Broadway. He's appeared in TV shows like The Office and Curb Your Enthusiasm, and written for Family Guy. An advocate for Jewish identity and education, Platt hosts the podcast Being Jewish with Jonah Platt and actively participates in various Jewish organizations. He hails from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, being the son of producer Marc Platt and brother to actor Ben Platt.

Jonah Platt, known for his work on Broadway and in television, has become a prominent voice in Jewish advocacy, especially following the events of October 7. In this compelling episode, Jonah joins Rachel to discuss the complexities of Jewish identity in the entertainment industry and beyond.They delve into the challenges of confronting antisemitism, the importance of authentic representation, and the role of tradition and family in shaping one's sense of self. Jonah shares insights from his podcast, Being Jewish, where he engages in honest conversations about faith, culture, and the diverse experiences within the Jewish community.This episode offers a nuanced exploration of what it means to be Jewish today—and how storytelling can bridge gaps in understanding.Want to advertise on our show? Email us at: info@truenativemedia.com--- --- ---VISIT OUR AMAZING SPONSOR!--- --- —HAPPY MAMMOTHGo to happymammoth.com and use code UNDERSTOOD at checkout for 15% OFF--- --- —Shop Miss Understood Merch https://mumerch.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Rachel on Instagram!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/racheluchitelnyc/?hl=enFollow Rachel on TikTok! https://www.tiktok.com/@itsracheluchitelExecutive Producer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠George Carmona Please like, share, subscribe, and give us a 5-star review!Do you have show ideas or media requests? Email the show at: ru@missumedia.comListen on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw13NrSKD-nD_8E0vBHt5hA⁠⁠Website: https://missunderstoodpodcast.com/

Greetings morons, and Happy Passover! We are delighted to welcome actor, musician, writer, Jewish advocate, fellow father to be, podcaster, and absolute MENSCH, Jonah Platt to the show. Today, we're breaking down all things Passover- how the holiday came to be, our personal passover stories, matzah pizza, and what really went down in Egypt. Plus, we answer YOUR messages and debate the true meaning of being Kosher. What, are ya nuts?! Enjoy! Tune in to Being Jewish with Jonah Platt HERE Leave us a voicemail here!Follow us on Instagram and TikTok! Sponsors:Go to U.S.KOALA.com/GOOD to get $100 off your sofa, plus free shipping.Find exactly what you're booking for on Booking.comHead to MarleySpoon.com/OFFER/GOODGUYS and use code GOODGUYS for up to 27 FREE meals!Get results you can run your fingers through! For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code GOODGUYS10 The Great Rewards Hunt is on, so join the adventure with Draftkings Casino! Sign up with code GOODGUYS and start playing to get up to ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS IN CASINO CREDITS back with a minimum five dollar net loss. Only on Draftkings Casino. The Crown Is Yours.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Feldstein has been a direct marketing professional for more than 40 years. He graduated with an MBA in marketing from New York University and has lived in Stamford since 1982. Feldstein is a member of both the Young Israel of Stamford and Congregation Agudath Sholom and has served on the adult education committees at both synagogues. He chaired the Center for Community Education at the Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy in Stamford, an education initiative that brought various Jewish educators to speak to members of the Stamford Jewish community. He also chairs the annual Challenges in Jewish Education panel program, which has brought various Jewish educators to participate in a panel to discuss critical issues in the world of Jewish education.  It has run consecutively for more than 20 years. He is the author of MEET ME IN THE MIDDLE, a collection of essays on contemporary Jewish topics.  For the last three years, he has been publishing a weekly column in The Jewish Link.  His works have also appeared in The Jewish Week and The Forward. In 2023, he won the Simon Rockower Award for Excellence in Journalism, which is given each year by the American Jewish Press Association. Gems:Be a life-long learner.Though technology is very useful, we must still value the actual Torah texts.Being Jewish is not something we can hide.Be flexible.Learning in Hebrew gives our students the ability to read and connect with our texts.We learn through experiences.Teach critical thinking skills along with moral character.There's value in teaching our students a trade.Focus on each individual child.https://amzn.to/414F4MRParenting On PurposeThis course will help you better understand your child and build a deeper connection.AmazonWe receive a small commission for any items purchased through my Amazon link.Dot-by-Dot Hebrew CurriculumA Kriah curriculum designed for the classroom, home, or Remedial with readers,workbooks, & games.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Jonah Platt, a true entertainment multi-hyphenate, is an actor, writer, producer, singer and host of the new hit podcast Being Jewish with Jonah. Join Platt for a wide-open conversation about growing up Jewish and the influence it has had on his career, including his upcoming project producing and co-staring alongside Ginnifer Goodwin in the feature film The Mensch and co-writing the musical adaptation of Lois Lowry's best-selling novel, The Giver. In conversation with Joe Alterman, executive director of Neranenah,This program is part of The Pulse: Moments That Matter, a series of frank conversations on culturally relevant topics with musicians, comedians and other entertainment industry professionals to illuminate how being Jewish has shaped their experiences, both personally and professionally.

In this episode, I had an engaging conversation with Jonah Platt, who comes from a prominent Hollywood family and has made his own mark in the entertainment industry. We talked about his experiences on Broadway, including his role in "Wicked," and his family's involvement in the production. Jonah also shared his journey into podcasting with his show "Being Jewish," which he launched to address Jewish identity and issues, especially in light of recent events in Israel. We touched on the challenges of anti-Semitism, the importance of advocacy, and the impact of political changes. On a personal note, Jonah opened up about his wife's MS diagnosis, their IVF journey, and their decision to use a surrogate for their third child. The episode was a mix of Hollywood insights, personal stories, and meaningful discussions about activism and identity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Jonah Platt's Background 00:02:11 - Jonah's Father and the Success of Wicked 00:10:48 - Jewish Advocacy and October 7th Attacks 00:23:01 - Hollywood Gossip: Justin Baldoni and Personal Trainer 00:34:28 - Jonah's Family Journey and Wife's MS MY Go Big Podcasting Courses Are Here! Purchase Go Big Podcasting and learn to start, monetize, and grow your own podcast. USE CODE: Cyber10 for 10% OFF **SHOP my Amazon Marketplace - especially if you're looking to get geared-up to start your own Podcast!!!** https://www.amazon.com/shop/thesarahfrasershow Show is sponsored by: Head to acorns.com/tsfs or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today! Alomoves.com use code TSFS30 for only ninety-nine dollars with a thirty-day FREE trial. This is a limited time offer that ends January 31 Horizonfibroids.com get rid of those nasty fibroids MeetFabric.com/TSFS join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to help protect their family. Apply today in just minutes Nutrafol.com use code TSFS for FREE shipping and $10 off your subscription Quince.com/tsfs for FREE shipping on your order and 365 day returns Follow me on Instagram/Tiktok: @thesarahfrasershow   ***Visit our Sub-Reddit: reddit.com/r/thesarahfrasershow for ALL things The Sarah Fraser Show!!!*** Advertise on The Sarah Fraser Show: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Got a juicy gossip TIP from your favorite TLC or Bravo show? Email: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I had an engaging conversation with Jonah Platt, who comes from a prominent Hollywood family and has made his own mark in the entertainment industry. We talked about his experiences on Broadway, including his role in "Wicked," and his family's involvement in the production. Jonah also shared his journey into podcasting with his show "Being Jewish," which he launched to address Jewish identity and issues, especially in light of recent events in Israel. We touched on the challenges of anti-Semitism, the importance of advocacy, and the impact of political changes. On a personal note, Jonah opened up about his wife's MS diagnosis, their IVF journey, and their decision to use a surrogate for their third child. The episode was a mix of Hollywood insights, personal stories, and meaningful discussions about activism and identity.Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction and Jonah Platt's Background00:02:11 - Jonah's Father and the Success of Wicked00:10:48 - Jewish Advocacy and October 7th Attacks00:23:01 - Hollywood Gossip: Justin Baldoni and Personal Trainer00:34:28 - Jonah's Family Journey and Wife's MSMY Go Big Podcasting Courses Are Here! Purchase Go Big Podcasting and learn to start, monetize, and grow your own podcast. USE CODE: Cyber10 for 10% OFF**SHOP my Amazon Marketplace - especially if you're looking to get geared-up to start your own Podcast!!!**https://www.amazon.com/shop/thesarahfrasershowShow is sponsored by:Head to acorns.com/tsfs or download the Acorns app to start saving and investing for your future today!Alomoves.com use code TSFS30 for only ninety-nine dollars with a thirty-day FREE trial. This is a limited time offer that ends January 31Horizonfibroids.com get rid of those nasty fibroidsMeetFabric.com/TSFS join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to help protect their family. Apply today in just minutesNutrafol.com use code TSFS for FREE shipping and $10 off your subscriptionQuince.com/tsfs for FREE shipping on your order and 365 day returnsFollow me on Instagram/Tiktok: @thesarahfrasershow  ***Visit our Sub-Reddit: reddit.com/r/thesarahfrasershow for ALL things The Sarah Fraser Show!!!***Advertise on The Sarah Fraser Show: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.comGot a juicy gossip TIP from your favorite TLC or Bravo show? Email: thesarahfrasershow@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Dude Therapist, Eli Weinstein sits down with the multitalented Jonah Platt to explore the evolving narrative of Jewish identity and the power of activism. Jonah dives into his personal journey of embracing Jewishness, the complexities of advocating in Hollywood, and how recent events have ignited a renewed sense of Jewish pride. This episode explores what it means to celebrate identity in the face of adversity, from tradition and family to the importance of respectful dialogue. Jonah also shares wisdom for young activists, highlights the importance of education and community support, and offers a glimpse into the future of Jewish advocacy. Key Takeaways: Judaism is about more than religion; it's about family and tradition. Activism can spark newfound pride and strength in identity. Respectful dialogue fosters understanding, even amidst differences. It's okay to block negativity online—protect your mental health. Embracing and celebrating who you are leads to empowerment. Community and education are vital for strengthening identity and advocacy. Jonah Platt, host of the new podcast Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, is a trusted voice in modern Jewish advocacy and culture. With a career that has spanned Broadway (Wicked), Hollywood (Being the Ricardos), and beyond, Jonah brings authenticity and insight to the ongoing conversation about Jewish identity. Tune in for inspiration, insight, and actionable advice on embracing who you are and standing tall in advocacy. Don't miss this empowering discussion! Resources Mentioned: Jonah's new podcast: Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Recommended readings on Jewish identity and activism Follow Jonah Platt on social media for updates and insights

What do you people call it? 2025? Anyway, we hope it's awesome! Is your new year's resolution to listen more of the Jewish weave, covering everything from Hanukkah to TJ MAxx? If so, you're in for a treat.Also:* Our sufganiyot (seasonal donuts) game-plan* Being Jewish out loud* Are celebrities allowed to be jewish?* A 2nd Hanukkah without the hostages* The bombshell Assad divorce* We are the lovechilds Marie Kondo and a Tazmanian Devil* We'll also introduce a new segment: The Jewish draft! Who's in and who's out this week? Listen to find out. Or you could also scroll below to see the photo. By the way he's been posting one for every night, hasn't hit a Jewish person in his quotes just yet, but it's night 7 so figners crossed!Also, here's a video of a lovely celebration on 5th avenue, complete with irrate commuters and confused tourists. Jewish Joy in your face, it's the NYC way!Have you ordered your copy of the Queers 4 Palestine calendar yet? If not, take your time, i've been doing the fulfillment and already have spent more than the doctor's recommended time in the post office. But also hurry up because we have a limited supply! Special thanks to the wonderful Nika Scothorne for the design. Good for the Jews is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Any New Year's resolutions?? Share below for accountability and feedback. Get full access to Good for the Jews at askajew.substack.com/subscribe

In the madness of election week, we forgot to note that we are off for Veteran's Day today. As longtime readers and listeners know, the Tangle team observes all federal bank holidays, and also takes a couple "recesses" throughout the year around major holidays and congressional breaks (if Congress can take recesses, why can't we as news reporters and consumers?).While we are off today, we still wanted to provide you with a little bit of content. So, below, we've compiled a list of some of recent publications and interviews that you might be interested in, as well as today's "quick hits."On Friday, we published an election-focused reader mailbag newsletter. We answered questions about the future of democracy, "missing votes," purported sexism in the election, how different news outlets call state elections, the argument that Trump is better for women's rights, and much more. You can read it here (newsletter members only).Also on Friday, we published a members-only podcast interview with Ken Block, the election fraud expert hired by the Trump campaign in 2020 to help them litigate election fraud claims. We chatted with him about what he did (and didn't) find. You can listen here (podcast members only).I recently appeared on the “Being Jewish” podcast with Jonah Platt to discuss my journey with Judaism, journalistic integrity today, and the Tangle mission. You can listen here. We have a lot of new content on our YouTube channel, including our election night livestream. You can check out the latest here.If you're a new Tangle listener, you might also be interested in checking out my TED talk from April, in which I discuss politicized language choices and how even small changes can help us all have better conversations with people who think differently than we do. You can watch it here. Ad-free podcasts are here!Many listeners have been asking for an ad-free version of this podcast that they could subscribe to — and we finally launched it. You can go to tanglemedia.supercast.com to sign up!Check out Episode 8 of our podcast series, The Undecideds. Please give us a 5-star rating and leave a comment!You can subscribe to Tangle by clicking here or drop something in our tip jar by clicking here. Our podcast is written by Isaac Saul and edited and engineered by Jon Lall. Music for the podcast was produced by Diet 75. Our newsletter is edited by Managing Editor Ari Weitzman, Will Kaback, Bailey Saul, Sean Brady, and produced in conjunction with Tangle's social media manager Magdalena Bokowa, who also created our logo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Being Jewish comes with a big responsibility." In this episode, Jewish activist Lizzy Zavetsky shares her journey of navigating challenges, finding strength in adversity, and having tough conversations with her children. Her story inspires standing up for your beliefs and making a lasting impact. Whether you're into activism, cultural identity, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable lessons. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: 1. Speak from the heart: Advocate by sharing personal experiences and emotions, not just facts. 2. Find strength in adversity: Overcoming challenges like loss and negative press builds resilience and courage. 3. Lead by example: Teach the next generation to embrace their identity and take action confidently. 00:00 - Introduction 02:49 - Emotional journey since October 7th and challenges faced. 05:43 - Empowering others to stand up for Israel and Jewish identity. 09:29 - Addressing skepticism about Jewish history and identity. 12:36 - Cultivating bravery and mental toughness. 15:06 - Staying informed and vetting information. 18:32 - Balancing family life and advocacy. 25:32 - Developing tenacity and overcoming challenges. 30:06 - Advice on advocating for Jewish identity. 34:34 - Lizzy's advice for her future self. Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠ For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website: https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

When Richard Wagner wrote his operas it was--wait for it--actually cool to be German. Indeed, one need only listen to this music for ten seconds to figure this out. Being Jewish back then on the other was, well, not so coveted. How times have changed. For today, horn players like Bar Zemach are welcomed to blast the shofar in the best orchestras of Germany.

Sunday, 4 August 2024   When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Matthew 2:3   “And Herod the king, having heard, he was agitated, and all Jerusalem with him” (CG).   The previous verse noted that the magicians had seen the star of the King of the Jews in the direction of the sunrising and they had come to worship Him. With that noted, Matthew now records, “And Herod the king.”   Herod was a power-hungry king who feared any challenge, real or imagined, to his reign. Of him, Charles Ellicott writes –   “The old king (the title had been given by the Roman Senate in B.C. 40) was drawing to the close of his long and blood-stained reign. Two years before he had put to death, on a charge of treason, his two sons by Mariamne, his best-loved wife, through sheer jealousy of the favour with which the people looked on them. At the time when this history opens, his eldest son, Antipater, was under condemnation.”   So fearful was he of any challenge to his throne that he had his own sons executed for simply being popular. Understanding his personality, Matthew next records, “having heard, he was agitated.”   Herod certainly questioned how magicians from the East could come looking for the King of the Jews but not be looking for him. He sat on the throne over the Jewish people! Because of this, Matthew notes that he was agitated.   The word is tarassó. HELPS Word Studies says it means to “put in motion (to agitate back-and-forth, shake to-and-fro); (figuratively) to set in motion what needs to remain still (at ease); to ‘trouble' (‘agitate'), causing inner perplexity (emotional agitation) from getting too stirred up inside (‘upset').”   One can see Herod standing there beside himself, distraught with the thought of a challenge to his throne. Certainly because of this, it next says, “and all Jerusalem with him.”   The word “all” is used in a comparative sense. An important point in Scripture is that not every “every” means “every,” and not all “all's” mean “all.” There were certainly people sitting in local cafes that had no idea what was transpiring in the royal hall. There were servants tending to the homes of their masters who would have no idea about the coming of the magicians. In all, probably very few of the people in the city had an inkling about the report.   Rather, in this case, Jerusalem stands for the seat of power. Therefore, it is referring to those who were in the royal court with Herod. They would have certainly been agitated, knowing his proclivity for harming others, and they would be walking on eggshells at the thought of what he might do in this instance.   Life application: Herod was an Idumean by birth, meaning an Edomite. Idumean is simply the Greek form of the word. Of this people group, the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus says that about 129 BC John Hyrcanus –   “...subdued all the Idumeans; and permitted them to stay in that country, if they would circumcise their genitals, and make use of the laws of the Jews; and they were so desirous of living in the country of their forefathers, that they submitted to the use of circumcision, and of the rest of the Jewish ways of living; at which time therefore this befell them, that they were hereafter no other than Jews.” Antiquities, Book 13 Chapter 9 Section 1   What this means is that the Edomites were brought into the nation of Israel, becoming Jews. This is no different than an Arab or a Japanese person today converting to Judaism. They become a part of the Jewish people. Whether their origins are remembered and held against them by other supposedly pure-blooded Jews or not is irrelevant. They are now Jews.   The line of Herod was a part of this conversion, but the racial animosities obviously remained, and despite being a Jew, it is obvious from historical records that he was remembered for his ancestral heritage more than his acceptance into the Jewish culture.   In the Bible, there are references to Edom, Moab, Ammon, etc., that are contained in prophecies that extend even beyond our time. And yet, there is no nation of Edom, Moab, etc. What this means is that the Bible is using the lands, once inhabited by those people groups, as emblematic of the people in those lands today.   Thus, when a future prophecy refers to Philistia, it is speaking of the modern-day Gazans, not Philistines. In referring to Ammon, Edom, or Moab, it is generally speaking of the Arabs who occupy Jordan. In other words, the lands that were originally settled by these people retain those name designations in Scripture.   This is important to understand because the Edomites of the past are now incorporated into the Jews of today. When the Romans exiled the Jews, those Edomites (Idumeans) who had assimilated into the Jewish people were a part of that exile. There are no “Edomites” today in a real sense. The nation does not exist. Instead, only the lands where they were are considered Edom.   Remember this as you read the Bible. There is a baseline for what is presented. That baseline does not change unless the change is recorded in Scripture. But whatever the final designation in Scripture is, that is what is to be considered when analyzing the world today.   Understanding this, the biblical model which refers to Christians is one that is set and unchanging. Jesus came, fulfilled the law, and introduced the New Covenant. Entry into what God is doing now takes place through the baseline that has been set because of Jesus Christ.   Being “Jewish” is no longer what designates a person who is in a right standing with God. Jews may be in a right standing, or they might not be. But the standard that makes it so is by coming to God through Christ Jesus. This is what God is doing in the world. The pattern is set because the Bible is complete.   And for those who have come to Christ, there are no longer any distinctions that should separate us. Herod may have been considered an Edomite even though he was a Jewish convert. However, such designations are no longer to be looked down on as if one group is better than another.   A Japanese, a Kenyan, and a Jew all walked into a church...   When they got there, they were (and remain) on an equal footing before God because of faith in Jesus Christ –   “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Galatian 3:26-29   Lord God, how grateful we are for what Christ has done for us. We are all one in Him through faith in His completed work. We are granted access to Your heavenly throne where You hear us regardless of who we once were. Thank You for the wonderful blessing of being Your child through simple faith in Him. Hallelujah and Amen.

Discover how passion, perseverance, and authenticity drive Ariel Helwani's successful career as a journalist. In this episode, Helwani reveals his strategies for managing burnout, overcoming imposter syndrome, and connecting with his audience. Learn the importance of physical fitness, self-care, and conducting compelling interviews. Gain valuable insights into the dedication and integrity needed to excel in the high-stakes world of media. Key takeaways from this episode: Discover strategies for managing burnout and maintaining mental well-being in a high-stress career. Learn how to overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt, cultivating a strong connection with your audience through authenticity and informed opinions. Gain insights into the importance of ethics, empathy, and building meaningful relationships. 0:00 Introduction 01:09 Managing burnout and maintaining positivity 03:56 Experiences with imposter syndrome 07:32 Finding niche in MMA coverage 11:32 Empathetic interviewing techniques 19:44 Maintaining audience connection 24:17 Building trust and relationships 30:46 Navigating public scrutiny 37:58 Being Jewish and supporting Israel 42:55 Conor McGregor's potential comeback Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠ For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website: https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

Title: The Expat Pod: Jodi Samuels Subtitle: Tales of Kosha adventures from Outback to Big City Episode Number: 41 Release Date: [29/04/2024] Duration: [01:29:39] Welcome to The Expat Pod, the podcast where we explore the ins and outs of living abroad, embracing new cultures, and navigating life as an expat. I'm your host, James Doran, and today, we're diving into the many adventures explored by Jodi Samuels a South African who has explored many amazing countries from Isreal to New Zealand, Australia, United States, and Back to Isreal with her family. Jodi shares her stories of moving from South Africa to be in Isreal where she met her now husband - They then travelled the world together exploring remote areas of New Zealand and Australia before getting settled status to be able to move to Sydney. Jodi then moved to Manhattan with her husband where they started a family and had a settled life. Being Jewish, Jodi often travelled to Isreal having been there when she left school. Not knowing she would eventually move there with her children and she has grown her incredible network globally through the many moves. You can find out more about Jodi on her website here: https://www.jodisvoice.com/ Connect with Us: Website: https://www.tallmantravels.co.uk/the-expat-pod  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089327439022  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.expat.pod/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/ExpatPod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-expat-pod/  00:00:00 Intro 00:08:47 Getting There 00:38:15 Being There 01:16:27 Review Subscribe, Rate, and Review: If you enjoyed this episode of The Expat Pod, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners like you and continue to deliver valuable content on life as an expat. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theexpatpod/message

Comedian, writer, podcaster, and actor Moshe Kasher chats with Trey Elling about SUBCULTURE VULTURE: A MEMOIR IN SIX SCENES. Topics include: The book's inspiration (0:00) Getting sober at 15 (3:09) Soberly loving raves (8:36) Hearing among the deaf (17:15) Burning Man (23:52) Being Jewish (24:56) The "art" of standup (29:17) Natasha Leggero going "Kreischer" (35:11)

Ron Bauer is a venture capitalist and entrepreneur with over 20 years of financing businesses. He is focused on the Life Sciences, Technology, EdTech, and Natural Resources sectors. Ron has a track record of nurturing innovative concepts and supporting dynamic entrepreneurs and scientists, consulting them from early-stage angel and seed funding all the way through to public mergers, RTOs, or IPOs as well as trade sales with larger companies, both public and private, as well as SPACs. He is experienced in the M&A and Corporate Finance aspects of business and seasoned in the Capital Markets. He has been a major shareholder and principal investor in many companies that trade on leading senior exchanges in the USA, Canada, and the UK. He was the Co-Founder and Director of Turkana Energy, which merged with Africa Oil (TSX: AOI) in July 2009. The company went on to have a peak market value of over $3 Billion CAD, having raised more than $1 Billion of equity after Tullow Oil successfully drilled Turkana's oil concession, Block 10BB. Ron is the principal and founding investor in many biotech, tech, and natural resources companies. He has a proven track record of raising capital across all sectors and all geographies in ever-changing market conditions. By far Ron's greatest personal quality is his ability to adapt himself to changing economic climates and diversifying sectors. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Cambridge. More about him: https://www.instagram.com/ronbauer888 https://thescapital.com/who . . TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Highlights 00:48 - Real Estate in The United States 08:51 - Venture Capital & Ron's Background 25:45 - Concerns With Electric Vehicles 29:39 - Market Changes and How to be Prepared for it 38:38 - Antisemitism in the UK 40:18 - Being Jewish 45:12 - War in Israel 54:33 - Digital Economy . .

In this bonus episode of Habits & Hustle, we explore the identity struggles within the Jewish community, the broad complexities of social justice, and the role of media in illuminating these issues with the Tel Aviv Institute Founder, Hen Mazzig. He shares his unique perspective on the importance of standing up and making our identities visible, echoing Harvey Milk's concept of "coming out" as Jewish.  Being Jewish in right now can be dangerous, but at the same time, it's dangerous for the jewish community to hide your heritage. We discuss how to find a balance between the two. Hen also shares startling data on anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment within Palestine, underscores the urgent need for Jews to reclaim their own humanity, the critical role of media in the Israel-Gaza conflict, and how truth can be distorted by groups like Hamas. Hen Mazzig is a globally-recognized speaker, educator, digital influencer and the founder of Tel Aviv Institute. Over 100 million users have interacted with his online content, and he has appeared as an expert on Jewish issues on four continents, over 500 college campuses, BBC, The Washington Post, SkyNews, TEDx, and countless Shabbat dinners. What we discuss:  (00:01) - The Importance of Speaking Up (09:41) - Intersection of Queerness, Anti-Semitism, Social Justice (22:44) - Media's Role in Israel-Gaza Conflict (31:40) - Gaslighting, Hostages, and Ceasefire Discussion (38:08) - Israel and Anti-Semitism Perception (45:27) - The Miracle of Jewish Survival Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen  Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Jordan Syatt Mini-Podcast, I discuss The Israeli Palestinian Conflict, the horrific events of October 7th, 2023, their immediate aftermath, and the history leading us to this heartbreaking event.  Being Jewish myself, and having lived in Israel and having family there, I go to pains to be as objective as possible while still speaking from the heart.  My goal is to help people become more educated on what's been going on in the region and to hopefully open peoples' hearts and minds to the idea that the targeting and killing of innocent civilians is never justified, regardless of who they are, where they are from, or what they believe.  I know this is a controversial topic but I cannot go on with my regularly scheduled programming as all of this unfolds.  I hope you listen with open hearts, and I hope you learn something from it that is helpful to you.  I know that speaking on this topic will unleash a lot of anger and hatred and unfortunately, 1-star reviews, so if you find this episode at all helpful or want to support me and the podcast, please leave a review on iTunes to help keep us afloat (huge thank you to everyone who has written one so far).   Stay safe.  I love you all.   - Jordan

Rundown -   Jane Feldman in the Inner Sanctum of Craig's Lawyers' Lounge - 49:25   Troubadour Dave Gunders - 01:53:58   "When I Die" by Dave Gunders - 02:08:44   Sordid Lauren Boebert incident at the Denver theater is thoroughly reviewed. So is the reaction by members of the Colorado and national media. Remember how Boebert went on Caplis Show to unveil bogus October 2022 surprise claiming her opponent had adulterous sex in a storage trailer in Aspen, a claim later discredited. We do.   We've got the sound of Caplis' reacting to the Boebert incident this week where he goes after the media for letting Dems like Polis and Biden get away with worse. The double standard is real and we use sound to show where it actually exists - on conservative media. Kyle Clark is part of this soundbite story.   Listen to Boebert reading a Caplis-approved script and flubbing it badly. Abortion opposition is a prop for BoBo and many of her fellow travelers, but it works to get some people on her side. And that's all it takes. https://twitter.com/RonFilipkowski/status/1705009115049648439   On the eve of Yom Kippur and G-d knows what else, we bring you both a spiritual and prosecution oriented show. Being Jewish may seem obvious if your name is Feldman, but there's always a little more to the story. The Feldmans were connected to the upper echelon of Manhattan politics.   Jane Feldman's father was a prominent NYC attorney close to the famous Morgenthaus, the most prominent Jewish family in American politics for years. We do a lot of name-dropping, including Kennedys, Roosevelts and celebrities Jane Feldman knew growing up in NY. Jane went on to be a prosecutor for the NYC DA's Office where she served 8+ years.   Jane Feldman also worked as Assistant AG in Colorado. She's in her fifth decade of legal practice now, meaning she enters the INNER SANCTUM reserved for Craig's Act Five Attorneys, now in their fifth decade of practice. Such lawyers are fearless and opinionated. Jane comes through.   An outspoken MAGA critic, Jane is known by Congressman Joe Neguse and others as a great sharp-tongued, fact-checker of MAGA on social media. Feldman calls out conservative disinformation and stands up against Jew haters. We talk about MAGA and bigotry – and how best to react as lawyers.   We analyze the various Trump trials and tribulations. This drama has many NYC components such as Trump and Rudy Giuliani. Go behind the scenes with this NYC connected guest with sharp analytical and prosecutorial skills. Jane Feldman is wise.   Show Troubadour Dave Gunders is great at contemplating the big issues that go with Yom Kippur. It is the day Jews confront their mortality. Gunders does that straight on with his amazing song titled, "When I Die." Is it metaphorical or literal when he says he wants to be laid down in the muddy water of the Mississippi? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbfXJaVSCrI

Content Circumcision is uncircumcision Circumcision of the heart is primary Being Jewish is about faithful obedience Support our ministry and gain access to hours of seminary videos: https://crosstocrown.org/partners/ My books: Exalted: Putting Jesus in His Place -- https://www.amazon.com/Exalted-Putting-Jesus-His-Place/dp/0985118709/ref=tmm_pap_title_0 God's Design for Marriage (Married Edition) -- https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-Married-Amazing/dp/0998786306/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493422125&sr=1-4&keywords=god%27s+design+for+marriage God's Design for Marriage (Pre-married Edition) -- https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-What-Before/dp/0985118725/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top crosstocrown.org @DougGoodin @CrossToCrown

“Who do YOU say that I am?” Jesus asks this powerful question to His disciples in Matthew 16. It is the most important question any of us is called to answer - and make no mistake. We are all to answer it.  The question unpacks a lot about who we are, and how we define our lives. We do not get to tell Jesus who He is -only acknowledge it. But He defines us. That is true freedom.  Stephanie shares, "He doesn't need to know who he is to you. And he surely doesn't need us to tell him who he is. So, How do you feel, knowing he is actively seeking out your very own personal answer? Does it feel like it's a quiz? Is this a test of your theology? Is this a test of your bible knowledge or your relationship with Him? Is this a test you may fail? Or could it be more like an invitation to unearth one of the most meaningful treasures in the world?" Jesus told a parable one day. Matthew records it just a few paragraphs before this question, in chapter 13. Here is what Jesus says. “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” Our understanding of Jesus' identity is like that treasure. It will change our lives. Let's go back to the context in the original text. First he asked what others were saying about him. Again, obviously he knew. He wasn't seeking information. He was seeking relationship – as always. Being Jewish through and through, he asks questions to enter into relationship, into dialogue. Who do others say He is? The disciples can answer this one easily, there is nothing personal. And the answer is rather positive, it tells us about the people's perception of who Jesus was at that point in his ministry. But you can quickly tell, this is not Jesus' goal. He is only getting started. Then he asks the real question – the other one was just a primer. Who do YOU say that I am? Now that is completely different. Now they are in the spotlight. Now it's their turn. Who we understand Jesus to be, determines who we are. Please hear this. Knowing who Jesus is, will determine the course of your life on earth, in heaven, and every moment spent here and there. Knowing who Jesus is tells you who you are. Jesus' identity defines your identity – and this cannot be said of any one else. He alone claims this level of power, authority, and utter allegiance. Who your kids are doesn't determine who you are. Who your parents or husband or best friend is, doesn't determine who you are. Your enemies or your friends or your colleagues or your neighbors or your boss don't define you. Jesus defines you. Where you were born, where you live, your ethnicity or your nationality, your income or your health, your size or your looks – these don't define you. Jesus defines you. You don't define yourself. If you are His disciple, then you have effectively renounced the right to define yourself. It means you don't get to choose the criteria that define you. None of the above. Jesus defines you. This is truly the most freeing thing anyone can tell you. Who Jesus is defines who you are, because you are IN Christ. You cannot be apart from Him. That is the whole purpose of relationship. If Jesus is truly the King of all kings, and the God of the universe who can hold everything you can see and touch and feel, and everything you can't, just by the power of His word, then being defined by Him is the most glorious thing and the highest possible calling. It is not reductive. It is enlarging. It is not confining. It is freeing. It is not limiting. It is boundless. You are who you are, because Jesus is who He is. And who He is to you, determines who you are. Ground yourself in Him. The greatest quest you can ever embark on is to take Him at His word when he promises to make Himself your greatest treasure and reward. Make sure to listen to get all the treasures and nuggets of wisdom from this episode. In this series, Stephanie takes us deep in Scripture through three powerful Greek words today. God is inviting you to capture your imagination, heart, soul and spirit through a deeper longing for Him. It is an intellectual search, a deep desire for Him, and also a need of our body. We will connect the dots and find that Jesus gives us the blueprint to answer this question the way the Father would invite us to. Let's embrace Jesus' invitation to ask, seek and knock – only to receive, find and have the door be opened. It is the same trio of Greek words, and it will inspire us to answer His question in the way that will bring us delight, for His glory. We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Or, of course, you can start at the beginning with episode 1.  Season 1: the gospel of Matthew like you've never experienced it https://www.podcastics.com/episode/3280/link/ Season 2: Experience Jesus through the Psalms https://www.podcastics.com/episode/33755/link/ Season 3: the gospel of Luke, faith in action https://www.podcastics.com/episode/40838/link/ Season 4: Proverbs spiced with wisdom https://www.podcastics.com/episode/68112/link/ Season 5: Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Season 6: Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Season 7: Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ Season 8: God's glory, our delight |  https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/   THERE ARE THREE WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY! First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact. Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…) And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!   MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY: Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status. Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! We want the money to go to those who really need it. No one at Gospel Spice is taking a salary. We are all donating our time. For example, a Podcast episode takes at least 10 hours of work each week. A complete Bible Study requires 500 man-hours. A Bible reading plan takes 100 man-hours. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170. We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you! Support us!

There is no privilege without responsibilty. Being Jewish is a privilege - but it is also a responsibility. In 1972, Rabbi Yaakov Asher Sinclair opened SARM Studios the first 24-track recording studio in Europe where Queen mixed “Bohemian Rhapsody”. His music publishing company, Druidcrest Music published the music for The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1973) and as a record producer, he co-produced the quadruple-platinum debut album by American band “Foreigner” (1976). American Top ten singles from this album included, “Feels Like The First Time”, “Cold as Ice” and “Long, Long Way from Home”. Other production work included “The Enid – In the Region of the Summer Stars”, “The Curves”, and “Nutz” as well as singles based on The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy with Douglas Adams and Richard O'Brien. Other artists who used SARM included: ABC, Alison Moyet, Art of Noise, Brian May, The Buggles, The Clash, Dina Carroll, Dollar, Flintlock, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Grace Jones, It Bites, Malcolm McLaren, Nik Kershaw, Propaganda, Rush, Rik Mayall, Stephen Duffy, and Yes. In 1987, he settled in Jerusalem to immerse himself in the study of Torah. His two Torah books The Color of Heaven, on the weekly Torah portion, and Seasons of the Moon met with great critical acclaim. Seasons of the Moon, a unique fine-art black-and-white photography book combining poetry and Torah essays, has now sold out and is much sought as a collector's item fetching up to $250 for a mint copy. He is much in demand as an inspirational speaker both in Israel, Great Britain and the United States. He was Plenary Keynote Speaker at the Agudas Yisrael Convention, and Keynote Speaker at Project Inspire in 2018. Rabbi Sinclair lectures in Talmud and Jewish Philosophy at Ohr Somayach/Tannenbaum College of Judaic studies in Jerusalem and is a senior staff writer of the Torah internet publications Ohrnet and Torah Weekly. His articles have been published in The Jewish Observer, American Jewish Spirit, AJOP Newsletter, Zurich's Die Jüdische Zeitung, South African Jewish Report and many others. Rabbi Sinclair was born in London, and lives with his family in Jerusalem. He was educated at St. Anthony's Preparatory School in Hampstead, Clifton College, and Bristol University. A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: Podcasts@Ohr.Edu https://podcasts.ohr.edu/

Ho Ho Ho, merry Bricksmas everyone! On our 3rd annual nogcast we discuss: Getting a prostitute for Christmas, The gifts that give us ptsd, Meeting Santa for the first time, Santa's opinions on Jews, Being Jewish on the Polar Express and the Problems with the Polar Express, The Polar Lolita Express, The Japanese polar express and bullet trains, The news paper but porn, The Snowman being a creepy metaphor, Snowman building a snow-dick and being r**ped by an English snowman, Oscar the grouch in the winter, Ben Shapiro with lithium batteries, 127 hours with blue chew, A troll dick pill, Wild chill being the only reason people get cold, Outside hot tubs and Chlorine burns from being dirty, The great goggle debate, The power to ice skate and “man” super heroes, Getting a bat in the house, Bee keepers vs bee givers vs beak eeper, Skipping the 13th floor and the 88th episode, Home alone-ing a ghost, Destroy Build Destroy Lego sets, Jack's dad getting mad at him for wanting a poly pocket house, Playing finance man, Getting your gifts stolen, Magic playing dads, Trump challenges, Eminem x Rick collabs and Rick playing yugioh, The great Ai Art Justin Roiland debate, AI rappers being racist, N word by proxy, Black vocaloids and black anime characters, And is getting our brown bricks gifts. Email us at brownbrickspodcast@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brown-bricks/support

Being Jewish, Alex Rich has much to say about the recent hateful comments from Kanye West.

Being Jewish has always been complicated. Listen as Rabbi Ammi Hirsch and Shalom Hartman Institute's “Identity/Crisis” podcast host Dr. Yehuda Kurtzer examine how the success of assimilation has made negotiating our modern Jewish identities more complex.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/in-these-times-with-rabbi-ammi-hirsch/donations