What do a rebellious Bat Mitzvah, hidden synagogues across Europe, and a chance encounter with a future member of Israel’s Knesset have in common? They’re all formative moments on the unexpected journeys of two rabbis!

In the very first episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership, and Meaning," Rabbis Leora Londy and Jonathan Jaffe pull back the curtain on their personal paths to the rabbinate, sharing the pivotal stories, questions, and challenges that shaped their sense of Jewish identity and communal calling. From Leora’s childhood in a rabbinic family—her mom teaching her to put on tefillin, her dad preparing the four species for Sukkot with the help of a Seventh Day Adventist—to Jonathan’s coming-of-age as one of Hawaii’s few Jewish kids, the episode explores how roots, rituals, and travels far from home can spark a lasting devotion to Jewish leadership.

Highlights include tales of feeling “Jewishly out of place” from Honolulu to Herzliya, the thrill (and tension) of entering synagogues and Jewish quarters while backpacking Europe, navigating gender roles in Israeli religious life, and the sometimes surprising realization that a simple act—or a single phrase from a teen—can change a life and inspire a rabbinic calling.

Tune in for an honest, reflective, and often humorous conversation about forging a meaningful Jewish life, the power of peoplehood, and what it takes to guide a community in such a time.

Episode Overview & Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 — Intro to the podcast and hosts’ intentions for exploring their rabbinic journeys
• 00:01:23 — Leora’s upbringing in a rabbinic household; tefillin, sukkot, and interfaith moments
• 00:04:24 — Jonathan’s childhood as one of the only Jewish kids in Honolulu, creating Camp Menorah, and what it meant to “build Judaism” from scratch
• 00:07:04 — Leora’s formative gap year in Israel: testing different Jewish communities, gender roles in worship, and the influence of feminist Jewish leaders
• 00:13:14 — Jonathan’s discovery of Jewish peoplehood on a backpacking trip across Europe, finding unexpected family in Jewish quarters and synagogues
• 00:18:08 — Leora’s cultural awakening in Herzliya, building bridges across Jewish diaspora, and the turning point that led her to the Reform rabbinate
• 00:24:43 — Jonathan’s “wandering” twenties: failing at corporate life, finding purpose at a shul in San Francisco, and how a teen’s kind words sparked his rabbinic pursuit
• 00:32:55 — Reflections on impact: how small acts and words can shape destinies, and the importance of gratitude in Jewish life
• 00:33:46 — Closing thoughts and thank yous

Subscribe and listen for more candid stories and conversations about Jewish leadership, identity, and meaning.

What if the most sacred conversations in your synagogue—those spontaneous, passionate, and even disagreeing voices—could offer a new blueprint for Jewish life, leadership, and meaning in today's turbulent world?

In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership, and Meaning debuts with an episode that does just that, pulling back the curtain on private rabbinic dialogue and inviting you into an intimate, surprising, and refreshingly authentic space.

In this vibrant kickoff episode, special guest host Lou Diamond sits down with Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy to introduce their vision for the show and the deeper purpose that inspired them: to model what it means to hold sacred, honest conversation—even when you disagree. Discover how moments of holiness arise not only during public worship or formal ritual, but in spirited, unscripted debates that bridge differences in beliefs, experiences, and backgrounds.

Key highlights include:

• The real impetus behind launching the podcast—and the surprising ways podcasting shapes community relationships.
• Why sharing “sacred disagreements” on-air is vital for the future of Jewish dialogue.
• What WON’T be in this podcast (spoiler: no congregational gossip or partisan shouting matches).
• Unique glimpses into the hosts’ lives: dream activities, secret ambitions (including a rabbi’s standup comedy goal!), and unexpected kayaking adventures.
• How the nuances of loving Israel, and being Jewish in Diaspora, will shape ongoing conversations.
• The commitment to tackling tough questions around Jewish peoplehood, boundaries, calendar, and identity—without shying away from complexity.

Whether you’re seeking deeper Jewish meaning, new approaches to tough questions, or simply longing for the kind of honest conversation that strengthens real community, this episode is your invitation.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Introduction: Welcome and what’s really behind “In Such a Time”
• [00:00:50] Meet the Hosts: Rabbi Jaffe and Rabbi Londy share their journeys
• [00:01:36] Why a Podcast?: The power and hidden intimacy of audio
• [00:03:03] The Origin Story: From private office conversations to the public
• [00:04:51] What to Expect: Jewish life, Diaspora, Israel, peoplehood—and respect for disagreement
• [00:07:29] What to Expect (and What You Won’t Hear): Protecting privacy and steering clear of politics
• [00:08:39] The Hosts’ Hopes: Sparking bigger conversations, serving more than just their own congregation
• [00:10:24] Getting Personal: Quick-fire questions reveal the rabbis’ human side
• [00:16:18] Closing Thoughts & How to Connect

Subscribe for a front-row seat to the conversations that are reshaping community, faith, and leadership—one radically open, honest dialogue at a time.

What if your rabbi stood on the bimah and told you exactly how to vote? Would it strengthen your faith—or make you walk out the door?

This episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning" pulls back the curtain on a heated debate most congregants never witness: To what extent should rabbis use their authority to advocate for political positions from the pulpit? Join Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy as they bravely lift the lid on their own impassioned disagreements about the role of politics in synagogue life, revealing not only their intellectual differences but also the profound respect that keeps them united in purpose.

Key highlights from the conversation include:

• Honest, behind-the-scenes struggles over whether clergy should speak about political issues like immigration, democracy, and Israel—and the price of silence in divisive times.
• Confessions about the tension between being a prophetic voice for justice and a pastoral presence for community cohesion.
• Real-life stories from the rabbis’ personal lives, including family synagogue choices impacted by politicized sermons and the moral quandaries of advocating for immigration reform or installing solar panels—right down to risking alienation and controversy.
• A mutual reckoning with the privilege and responsibility inherited from Jewish history, and the challenge of applying ancient Torah values to messy, modern issues.
• Reflection on how new platforms like podcasts reshape rabbinic influence and maintain deep connections with the Jewish community, even as the meaning of "speaking from the bima" evolves.

Will the rabbis find common ground, or are some disagreements just too fundamental to bridge? Listen in for a candid, urgent, and deeply personal exploration of what it means to lead—and unite—a community in times when politics can divide us most.

Episode Overview & Timestamps

• [00:00:00] – Intro: Setting the stage for this week's controversial conversation
• [00:01:16] – Rabbi Londy reveals her passion (and frustration) about addressing politics on the bima
• [00:04:41] – Rabbi Jaffe brings humility—and historical perspective—to the debate
• [00:08:38] – The sermons’ purpose: Should rabbis help congregants process current events?
• [00:12:11] – Prophet or pastor: How rabbis juggle the roles of comforter and challenger
• [00:14:03] – Difficult questions: What are truly "Jewish values" in political policy?
• [00:16:11] – Immigration and dignity: Personal stories and Torah wisdom
• [00:19:40] – Means vs. ends: Where shared values lead to political disagreement
• [00:23:05] – To act or just reflect? Why discomfort can be powerful
• [00:25:41] – Volunteerism vs. political activism: Where do synagogues draw the line?
• [00:29:19] – The "elephants in the room": Israel, America, and double standards
• [00:33:54] – The evolving role of the rabbi: From the bima to the podcast
• [00:36:53] – Final reflections: The risks of silence, the value of connection, and an open invitation for listener feedback

Don't miss this episode—it's a rare and thought-provoking look into the moral and practical dilemmas shaping today's American Judaism.

What if the secret to kids loving religious school isn’t magic—it’s goats, butterflies, and a radical rethinking of Jewish education?

In this lively episode of In Such a Time, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe sits down with Rabbi Educator Maura Linzer to reveal the rarely-shared story behind Temple Bethel’s explosive school growth and joyful, inclusive culture. Discover how Rabbi Linzer pivoted from traditional rabbinic track to innovative educator, championing educational practices that mirror—and sometimes push past—the best of public school standards. From differentiated learning and tailoring programs for kids with IEPs, to the beloved annual baby goat visit (yes, real goats!), this episode uncovers practical and heartwarming strategies making Jewish education a magnet for families from across the region.

Key highlights include: how the school connects with parents as partners and primary educators, embraces kids with diverse learning needs, weaves in Israeli emissaries for real-world connection, and sensitively approaches complex subjects like Israel and the Holocaust. Plus: hear how the curriculum gets creative with costumes, theme songs, and enrichment activities that keep kids running towards religious school, not away.

Stay to the end for a rapid-fire Q&A where Rabbi Linzer shares her local Pittsburgh favorites and her vision for the next decade of Jewish learning.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Intro
• [00:00:20] Meet Rabbi Maura Linzer and her journey into Jewish education
• [00:01:16] The unlikely start: from rabbi to passionate educator
• [00:02:41] Building lay partnership and professionalizing religious school
• [00:04:44] What makes Temple Bethel’s approach unique—and a community draw
• [00:05:36] Inclusion, special needs, and a team of 70+ teen teachers
• [00:07:26] Innovative programs: baby goats, chickens, and hands-on learning
• [00:09:30] Making synagogue a second home: joy, creativity, costumes, and music
• [00:11:57] Inside the educational philosophy: inclusion, movement, and differentiated instruction
• [00:17:33] Empowering parents as primary Jewish educators
• [00:18:52] Teaching Israel: community, complexity, and real-world voices
• [00:23:55] Age-appropriate, immersive Holocaust education
• [00:25:52] Retaining and inspiring teens beyond B’nai Mitzvah
• [00:28:45] Personal favorites, Pittsburgh tips, and vision for the future
• [00:33:00] Closing and gratitude

Tune in for a blueprint of how Jewish education can be daring, joyful, and truly life-changing.

What if the most important Jewish holiday isn’t the one you think it is? And what if the rituals you grew up with are the very things holding you back from a more meaningful holiday experience?

In this eye-opening episode of In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning, Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy dive deep into the High Holidays—unpacking personal childhood memories, family legacies, synagogue culture, and the surprising ways that stress, boredom, confusion, and even teenage flirting have all shaped their connections to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Together, they challenge the dominance of guilt and atonement-centric themes, ask if fasting might eclipse the deeper purpose of Yom Kippur, and reflect on the difference between simply showing up for holidays and truly making Jewish life meaningful year-round. With stories ranging from bike-filled streets in Israel to behind-the-scenes synagogue preparations in the US, this conversation invites you to rethink what it really means to celebrate, atone, and renew.

Key highlights include:

• Rabbi Londy’s powerful early memory of visiting hospital patients on Yom Kippur—and learning Judaism is as much about action as about prayer
• Rabbi Jaffe’s honest admission of a “problematic” relationship with the High Holidays and the secrecy of prayerbook traditions that left him bewildered as a child
• How the narrative of fasting can undermine the intention of Yom Kippur, leading to hunger over holiness
• Why Jewish education models may sow seeds of alienation and how context is everything for spiritual connection
• The contrast between Jewish observance in Israel and America, and how cultural immersion (or isolation) shapes the seasons of meaning
• Honest reflections on disappointment, optimism, and the practice of forgiveness—both with others and oneself
• The ritual and symbolism that follows Yom Kippur—like building the sukkah—as powerful metaphors for doing and becoming

Whether you’re a lifelong synagogue-goer or someone who only peeks in on the High Holidays, this episode will challenge your assumptions, spark some laughter, and just might inspire you to embrace the holidays in a new way.

Episode Overview with Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 – Intro and episode setup
• 00:00:54 – Childhood memories: nerves, stress, and meaningful action
• 00:03:14 – Growing up fidgety, confused by synagogue traditions
• 00:06:11 – “Wow”, “Ouch”, and “Oops”: What Jewish prayer really means
• 00:08:25 – Why the High Holidays don’t represent the whole Jewish experience
• 00:09:59 – Communal responsibility and the value of atonement
• 00:12:42 – Jewish education, missed opportunities, and lasting impressions
• 00:15:30 – The problem (and machismo!) of fasting on Yom Kippur
• 00:20:15 – The power of preparation: Behind-the-scenes and in Israel
• 00:25:46 – The difference environment makes: Jewish life in the diaspora vs. Israel
• 00:28:01 – The unexpected optimism of Yom Kippur—do we ever really “finish”?
• 00:29:33 – Vulnerability, forgiveness, and the beauty of trying again
• 00:31:22 – Ne’ilah in Israel, the joy at the close of the holiday
• 00:34:21 – Sweet rituals: Symbolic foods and building the sukkah
• 00:35:12 – Final blessings & takeaways for a meaningful High Holiday season

Ready to be shocked—and renewed—by the High Holidays? Tune in now!

What if the God you reject isn’t the only God Judaism offers?

As the High Holidays approach, Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy open up a candid and often surprising conversation about the nature of God and belief in Jewish life. In this episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," the rabbis push beyond the familiar “God as parent” metaphor of the holiday liturgy and reveal the extraordinary spectrum of Jewish theological thought.

Discover how doubt, contradiction, and even “not knowing” are profoundly Jewish ways of relating to God. Rabbi Londy shares how her personal theology shifts from day to day, while Rabbi Jaffe discusses why he envies the comfort that some find in a personal, listening God—even as his own beliefs are grounded in rationalism and the philosophy of Maimonides. Together, they unpack classical and modern Jewish thinkers from Kaplan and Heschel to Buber and wrestle with the limits (or lack thereof) of individual belief.

Key highlights include:

• Why the prayer “Avinu Malkeinu” (Our Father, Our King) holds both contradiction and possibility.
• What happens when we read sacred text literally—and what congregants don’t know about how rabbis themselves pray.
• The vital role of community, obligation, and spiritual practice—and why spirituality is more like working out than you think.
• How theology shifts in the wake of suffering, tragedy, and even the Holocaust.
• A curated reading list for deepening your own exploration of Jewish thought.

Whether you’re a seeker, skeptic, or someone who’s always wanted to believe, this episode invites you to rethink what it means to relate to God—and to find your own place in the conversation.

Timestamped Overview:[00:00:00] Intro and framing: God talk during the High Holidays; the limits of “God as parent.”[00:01:57] How rabbis read (and sometimes reject) literal prayers; permission to define your own relationship to God.[00:04:32] Personal stories of evolving faith, doubt, and daily theology.[00:05:47] Rational vs. non-rational concepts of God; Maimonides, Kaplan, and Jewish options for belief.[00:13:17] Are there boundaries to what God can mean in Judaism?[00:16:03] “God as gravity”—Rabbi Jaffe on philosophic rationalism and aligning with the cosmos.[00:23:41] Heschel, Buber, and the power (and limits) of a personal God.[00:26:48] Practice, obligation, and the shape of Jewish life; “feel-good” Judaism vs. halachic commitment.[00:31:13] Theodicy—grappling with God and suffering (from biblical times through October 7th).[00:37:08] The significance of community and spiritual “muscle memory.”[00:43:03] The contradictions within sacred language, especially “Avinu Malkeinu.” [00:44:33] Book and resource recommendations for further exploration.[00:46:41] Closing thoughts and invitation to confront your own questions about God.

Listen in to discover a profoundly honest, challenging, and liberating exploration of what—and how—you might believe.

What if the very value that defines American Judaism is the one holding it back in its hour of greatest need?

In this eye-opening Rosh Hashanah sermon speical episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe takes listeners on a deeply personal and provocative journey, exploring the seismic shift in Jewish identity and priorities after October 7th.

Drawing from his own emotional struggles and the collective anxieties of the Jewish community, Rabbi Jaffe challenges decades of outward-focused activism and asks: In an era when antisemitism is on the rise and old alliances feel more fragile than ever, what do Jews owe to themselves—and to the world?

Key highlights of this riveting sermon include:

• A sobering look at how interfaith solidarity for the Jewish community has frayed post-October 7, with tangible stories from canceled events and activist betrayals.
• The roots and rapid rise of tikkun olam as the core of American Jewish identity—and why Rabbi Jaffe warns it might be a double-edged sword.
• Insightful analysis on the tension between self-preservation and universalism, invoking Hillel’s famous teaching: “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I?”
• Real-world examples of Jewish institutions striking the balance, from the historic Jewish aid societies to Krakow’s Jewish Community Center supporting both Jews and non-Jewish Ukrainian refugees.
• A heartfelt call to reclaim Jewish pride and self-advocacy, without losing the ethical imperative to care for the stranger.

Join Rabbi Jaffe as he proposes a new path forward—a “golden mean”—for Jews navigating an uncertain future, and challenges all listeners to reconsider how we define belonging, solidarity, and moral responsibility in troubled times.

Episode Overview

• 00:00:00 – Intro to the special High Holiday episode
• 00:00:20 – Rabbi Jaffe introduces the central question: What do Jews owe the world post-October 7?
• 00:02:23 – Examples of fractured alliances and rising antisemitism
• 00:05:12 – The Torah’s radical lesson: Never become Egypt, even when abandoned
• 00:07:27 – American Jewish history: From self-preservation to tikkun olam
• 00:11:53 – The risks and limits of tikkun olam as core identity
• 00:16:11 – Jewish vulnerability and the need for recalibration
• 00:20:57 – Rav Huna’s centuries-old guidance on navigating dual responsibilities
• 00:23:16 – Modern models: How the Krakow JCC balances caring for Jews and non-Jews
• 00:24:34 – Gratitude for interfaith partners and call to action for Jewish pride and care for all
• 00:26:18 – Final blessing and closing remarks

Ready for a conversation that will challenge, inspire, and redefine your understanding of Jewish purpose? Hit play now.

What if the secret to a more meaningful, joyful year wasn’t found in a grand temple but inside a flimsy hut exposed to rain, wind, and the unknown?

In this energizing episode of “In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning,” Rabbis Leora Londy and Jonathan Jaffe invite listeners into the spiritual heart of Sukkot—the Jewish festival celebrated by literally moving life outdoors into temporary, decorated huts. Together, they reveal how this ancient holiday teaches powerful lessons on impermanence, vulnerability, and the joy of getting lost.

You’ll hear Rabbi Londy’s stories of Sukkot traditions from America to Israel—think cotton-walled sukkahs on city balconies and the annual scramble for palm fronds. Rabbi Jaffe reminisces about Jewish holidays in tropical Hawaii and draws inspiration from urban adventures, showing how stepping outside your comfort zone creates deep spiritual growth.

Key highlights include:

• Why Sukkot’s impermanence is actually grounding—and why getting “lost” is essential for spiritual renewal.
• Personal stories of Sukkahs destroyed by wind, rebuilt with resilience, and the beauty of inviting guests, both real and symbolic.
• How Sukkot rituals—decorating, gathering, petitioning for rain—build community and echo the transformative journey through the desert.
• Practical inspiration for making Sukkot meaningful wherever you live, from backyard tents to urban explorations and popping into bustling Jewish neighborhoods for lulav shopping.
• A recurring theme: that embracing fragility, chaos, and uncertainty adds color and meaning to life.

If you’ve ever wondered why a holiday about living in huts can be the most joyful week of the year—or how “getting lost” might just help you find yourself—this episode will surprise and inspire you.

Timestamped Episode Overview

00:00 — Intro: What makes Sukkot the most joyful Jewish festival?00:20 — The heart of Sukkot: traditions, family, and outdoor living01:39 — Sukkot weather around the world and the agricultural cycle04:32 — Sukkot in American Reform Jewish life: a missed outdoor opportunity?05:41 — Sukkah shopping adventures in Israel and America07:41 — The deeper meaning: joy, tradition, impermanence, and wandering09:15 — Honeymoon or boot camp? The wilderness as spiritual metaphor11:25 — Getting lost: why stepping outside your comfort zone matters13:26 — Sukkot as grounding after the high holidays; why your sukkah must leak!14:31 — Stories: Sukkah destroyed by wind, resilience and rebuilding16:04 — Adventures in getting lost: urban biking, spiritual travel19:13 — Welcoming guests: ushpizin and revisiting Jewish history21:24 — Building and decorating the sukkah: physical and spiritual renewal23:41 — Sukkot as community celebration: Lego, magna tile, graham cracker sukkahs 24:51 — Practical tips for celebrating Sukkot, wherever you are25:57 — Experiencing Sukkot in a lively Jewish neighborhood26:19 — Rabbi Jaffe’s story of spiritual “lostness” in Turkey and Greece28:35 — Life’s fragility and impermanence: Sukkot’s lessons29:31 — Closing wishes and reflections

Ready to get lost—and discover the joy waiting outside your door? Press play and step into the sukkah!

What happens when the entire fate of a nation changes overnight?

This episode of "In Such A Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning" confronts the raw emotions and heavy realities surrounding Israel’s acceptance of a deal to end the war in Gaza and bring hostages home—a moment Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe describes as “deeply bittersweet” and Rabbi Leora Londy admits left her “speechless.”

Join Rabbis Jaffe and Londy as, just hours after this historic news, they share their personal reflections, process their hopes and resentments, and grapple with the consequences for Israel, the Jewish people, and the world. Through honest dialogue, they unpack:

• The psychic aftermath of a two-year war: loss, trauma, reunification, and enduring pain
• Historic patterns and spiritual echoes from Jewish liturgy, and the meaning of “return” in Jewish history
• Deep anger and disappointment with world responses, double standards, and missed humanitarian opportunities
• The surge of antisemitism worldwide, its transformation through history, and its impact on diaspora Jewish identity
• The unique moral struggles faced by the Israeli public, government, and the IDF in times of war
• Hopes (and fear) for the “day after”: rebuilding, healing, and reimagining Israel and Jewish life
• How tragedy renews Jewish connection, identity, and community, even in moments of insecurity

In the final moments, Rabbi Londy shares a poignant story from the Israeli front lines—a soldier, the first rain of Sukkot, and stray dogs, offering a message of hope, humanity, and unexpected beauty amid destruction.

If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to live through a moment that will be remembered for generations, this episode is for you.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Intro & context for the episode: Israel’s accepted ceasefire and hostage deal
• [00:01:09] Rabbi Londy’s emotional response and reflections on historic cycles
• [00:03:28] Fractures, losses, bittersweet hopes, and feeling haunted by the bookends of war
• [00:04:38] Rabbi Jaffe’s gratitude and anger: criticism of global response and missed opportunities
• [00:07:29] Processing grief, resentment toward Israeli government, and nervousness about the future
• [00:10:11] The morality of the IDF, government missteps, and dreams for redeemed leadership
• [00:13:03] An “MRI” of Jew-hatred: the shocking visibility of antisemitism worldwide
• [00:15:31] Rabbi Londy’s hope vs. fear: Is the majority of humanity hateful or just silent?
• [00:17:22] Turning to Judaism in the face of threat—and the challenge of sustaining that connection
• [00:18:26] Three eras of Jew-hatred & Israel as the new focal point
• [00:22:16] Reclaiming family: Renewed bonds among Jews amid crisis
• [00:23:02] Personal stories: When did the rabbis first feel Jew-hatred?
• [00:28:18] Disagreement, worries, and hope for Israel’s future
• [00:31:13] A soldier, rain, and stray dogs—finding beauty and faith at war’s end
• [00:32:47] Closing prayers and reflections for a better future
• [00:33:06] Outro and resources

Listen for a gripping, deeply personal conversation that will stay with you long after the episode ends.

What if one of the most influential anthems of hope—Hatikvah—was written by a restless, misunderstood family outcast?

In this special Yom Kippur episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbi Leora Londy unveils a deeply personal and surprising family connection to Naftali Hertz Imber, the poet behind the immortal words of Hatikvah, Israel's national anthem. Through the story of her own genealogical journey, Rabbi Londy explores not only the origins of these iconic lyrics but uncovers how hope is woven into the very DNA of the Jewish people.

Join Rabbis Leora Londy and Jonathan Jaffe as they reflect on the true nature of hope in our faith tradition—how it's not just a passive feeling but an active choice and collective mission, especially in times of uncertainty and division. Hear poignant moments from Jewish history, the complexity of present-day challenges in Israel and America, and a heartfelt call for unity, resilience, and communal action. This episode will leave you inspired to not only yearn for a better world but to help create it, together.

Timestamps & Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Intro: Exploring Jewish life, meaning & leadership
• [00:00:20] Sharing high holiday sermons with the podcast community
• [00:00:36] Rabbi Londy begins her sermon, introducing her Ancestry.com search and family history
• [00:01:39] The incredible story of Naftali Hertz Imber—a complex ancestor and the writer of Hatikvah
• [00:04:17] Hatikvah’s poetic message and its enduring role as an anthem of hope
• [00:07:05] Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ distinction between optimism and hope
• [00:07:41] Grappling with hope amid modern Jewish and American challenges
• [00:11:40] The collective power of communal practice—how Yom Kippur reweaves the fabric of Jewish identity
• [00:13:38] The strength of inclusive, supportive Jewish community at Beth El
• [00:15:36] Personal reflections on overcoming worry, reclaiming agency, and finding hope through heritage
• [00:16:29] A blessing for hope, resilience, and restorative community in the new year

If you’re seeking inspiration on how to stay hopeful—no matter how fractured the world may feel—this episode is for you.

What if the best response to rising antisemitism isn’t fighting back—but rediscovering what it means to be Jewish?

In this special Kol Nidre sermon episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe turns a conventional question inside out: How should the Jewish community respond to growing antisemitism? Instead of looking outward for acceptance or launching PR campaigns, Rabbi Jaffe urges listeners to look inward, strengthening Jewish identity and practice—for ourselves, not for external validation.

Rabbi Jaffe explores the pitfalls of centering Jewishness on defense and debate, drawing on incisive insights from Jean-Paul Sartre, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, and Sarah Hurwitz. He introduces the concept of the “reverse Marrano”: those publicly Jewish but privately disconnected from Jewish substance, and challenges the community to move from contentless identity to meaningful observance.

Through moving, real-life stories—from recent converts to lone soldiers, and families deepening their practice in the wake of October 7th—Rabbi Jaffe illustrates how crisis can become the catalyst for personal and communal transformation. The episode closes on a practical, hopeful note: small steps anyone can take to foster Jewish knowledge, pride, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Key highlights include:

• Why attempts at “better PR” or public empathy often fall short and can even be counterproductive
• The historical and philosophical roots of antisemitism, and why internal strength is a more resilient response
• Personal stories from within Rabbi Jaffe’s community that reveal powerful awakenings of Jewish identity after October 7th
• Actionable ways to build deeper Jewish practice—starting with making Shabbat meaningful at home

This is a must-listen for anyone grappling with Jewish identity, antisemitism, or spiritual resilience in challenging times.

Timestamped Overview:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and setting the stage for Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur reflections
• [00:00:20] Rabbi Jaffe frames the question: How should Jews respond to rising antisemitism?
• [00:01:55] The pitfalls of focusing on PR and defending against criticism
• [00:04:10] Why seeking approval or external validation is a losing strategy
• [00:05:17] Deep historical roots of antisemitism and modern implications for Israel
• [00:06:08] The call to turn inward and embrace authentic Jewish identity
• [00:06:53] The concept of the "reverse Marrano" and its relevance today
• [00:09:35] How October 7th triggered reassessment and stronger Jewish engagement
• [00:10:47] Stories of hostages and their families deepening Jewish observance
• [00:13:24] Three powerful stories from Rabbi Jaffe’s own community post-October 7th
• [00:14:48] Reflections on conversion and embracing Jewish identity despite adversity
• [00:15:36] The journey of a young man choosing to join the IDF as a lone soldier
• [00:17:00] Personal ritual shifts and building connection through Jewish practice
• [00:19:45] Moving from a reaction to hate toward building lasting, meaningful Jewish life
• [00:21:41] The potential for blessing born out of crisis
• [00:22:45] Practical, inspiring recommendations for deepening Jewish involvement
• [00:25:12] Closing and invitation to engage further

Listen now to be challenged, inspired, and empowered to answer hate not with defense, but with the strength of authentic living.

What if the Torah’s “rules” were actually designed to help us live more grateful, flexible, and fully human lives—and not simply to restrict us?

In this illuminating episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy pull back the curtain on some of the most surprisingly radical and emotionally resonant teachings in the Jewish tradition.

Timed with Simchat Torah and the annual restarting of the Torah reading cycle, this episode takes listeners on a journey through personally meaningful verses and texts. Rabbi Jaffe reveals how a biblical call for 100 daily blessings isn't just about rote gratitude, but about living in a state of constant "wow" and appreciation—even on the hardest days. Rabbi Londy shares how one of Jacob's most vulnerable moments teaches us about self-knowledge, transformation, and the ongoing possibility for change and awakening.

You'll also hear them boldly reframe the often-misunderstood Book of Leviticus—not as an outdated manual of sacrifices, but as a groundbreaking model for empathy, ritual reintegration, and making space for those who have suffered or faltered. And through stories ranging from childhood rituals to the challenges of parenting, they wrestle honestly with what it means to build meaningful structures for gratitude, apology, and second chances.

Some highlights from the episode:

• The secret history behind the tradition of saying 100 blessings every day—and how it refocuses your attention on life's overlooked miracles
• Why Jacob, the Torah’s “most imperfect” patriarch, might be the ultimate model for growth, humility and spiritual awakening
• The deeply countercultural idea in Leviticus that illness or failure doesn’t define you, and how ancient rituals point to the need for full rehabilitation and belonging
• The powerful message of the “Second Passover”—and what it teaches us about letting ourselves try again when we’re not ready or able to get it right the first time
• Honest reflections on ritual vs. intention, spiritual fitness, and how both rabbis build gratitude and awareness into ordinary daily routines

Perfect for anyone curious about how ancient texts can speak to modern lives, leadership, and personal meaning, this episode is an inspiring start to a new Torah cycle.

Timestamped Overview:00:00 — Introduction & Simchat Torah framing

00:59 — Rabbi Jaffe’s ordination story and Deuteronomy 10:12: 100 daily blessings, gratitude, and the structure of Jewish gratitude rituals

05:07 — Rabbi Londy on gratitude routines, the neurotic mind, and noticing everyday miracles (like kitchen window bunnies)

10:51 — Mindfulness through Jewish rituals: blessings, food, and the Jewish calendar

13:12 — Transformative family rituals: Three daily gratitudes and bedtime prayers

14:30 — Rabbi Londy’s text: Jacob’s awakening and discovery of holiness in Genesis 28:16

18:05 — Ego, spiritual self-knowledge, and the Hasidic interpretation of “God was in this place and I, I did not know it”

21:00 — Torah as descriptive, not prescriptive: embracing imperfection and realness

22:41 — Rabbi Jaffe on Leviticus as a radical text: inclusion, rehabilitation, and the difference between illness and sin

26:11 — Empathy for leaders, Miriam’s story, and rethinking punishment and process of return

29:35 — Controlled violence in ritual and society—ancient and modern parallels

33:01 — Rituals of repentance vs. our modern hunger for “blood” and spectacle

34:09 — Rabbi Londy: Second Passover and the Torah’s surprising flexibility on second chances

39:01 — Adapting rituals, flexibility, and the evolution of Jewish practice

43:31 — Recommended readings & closing encouragement to engage with the Torah anew

Ready to see the Torah—and yourself—through new eyes? Listen in and discover the wisdom you didn’t expect.

What happens when a New York election upends Jewish unity and safety—and a wave of hope collides with centuries-old fears?

This electrifying episode of In Such a Time dives deep into the shockwaves reverberating through New York’s Jewish community after Momdani’s mayoral victory. Hosts Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy tackle the complicated fallout, exploring why so many Jews—especially younger, non-Orthodox voters—prioritized values like diversity, economic justice, and inclusion over traditional concerns about Israel and antisemitism.

Listeners will be captivated by brutally honest reflections: Why did core Jewish values shift so drastically for a new generation? Is Jewish physical and emotional safety being overlooked in pursuit of broader social ideals? Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe shares candid worries about the privilege of invisibility and the chilling reality for outwardly Jewish New Yorkers, while Rabbi Leora Londy weighs the painful trade-offs between self-interest, women’s safety, and collective Jewish responsibility.

Together, the rabbis wrestle with the rise of anti-Zionism, the power of hope, and how flawed media narratives shape Jewish identity and voting patterns. They confront the tension between healing fractured communities and challenging dangerous rhetoric, never shying away from tough questions about assimilation, generational divides, and what it truly means to be a Jew—in New York and beyond.

At heart, this episode is a wake-up call: How will Jewish leaders re-engage a community redefined by skepticism, idealism, and unease? Will new hope bring cohesion, or is deeper fracture inevitable?

Timestamped Highlights Overview:

• [00:00:00] – Intro to Jewish Life, Leadership, and current questions facing the community

• [00:00:29] – Framing the impact of Momdani’s election & generational shifts in Jewish identity

• [00:02:38] –Rabbi Leora Londy

  on the erosion of Jewish unity and instilling new values

• [00:04:26] – Are Jewish safety and cohesion being neglected? Alarm over political rhetoric

• [00:05:21] – Why young Jews view Israel as less central, even negative; sympathy vs. critique

• [00:07:17] – The tension between privilege and public Jewish vulnerability

• [00:08:13] – Fear, hope, and the chilling question: Are New York Jews safe in 2025?

• [00:11:14] – Voting as Jews, women, and parents: the painful calculus between competing values

• [00:17:33] – Unpacking Mamdani’s worldview: anti-Zionism, scapegoating, and media influence

• [00:20:43] – Why young Jews mistrust Israel and how social media warps reality

• [00:24:50] – The seduction of hopeful narratives and their dark side—rewriting history and risk

• [00:26:10] – Islamophobia and antisemitism: drawing boundaries, challenging false equivalence

• [00:31:15] – The privileged pains of New York youth: entitlement, expectation, and disappointment

• [00:37:02] – Empathy for young voters—real struggles behind the hope

• [00:39:25] – Jewish leaders’ dilemma: opposition, collaboration, or listening to new voices

• [00:41:00] – Parenting, education, and reclaiming Jewish identity in a fractured moment

• [00:44:20] – Hanukkah vs. Purim antisemitism: assimilation’s dangerous cost

• [00:47:37] – Closing wisdom: The privilege and power of joyful Jewish identity

Tune in for a riveting, no-holds-barred conversation that challenges, inspires, and demands reflection from Jews—and all New Yorkers—living in such a time.

What if the most celebrated Jewish rite of passage—the B’Nai Mitzvah—has unintentionally become a barrier to lifelong Jewish engagement, rather than the gateway it was meant to be?

In this eye-opening episode of “In Such a Time Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning,” hosts Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy pull back the curtain on the history, complexities, and personal realities behind the B’Nai Mitzvah, revealing how decades of synagogue decisions have shaped this ritual—from meaningful spiritual transformation to occasionally rote memorization and lavish celebrations.

The rabbis candidly share their own B’Nai Mitzvah experiences, highlighting moments of genuine connection—and missed opportunities. They unpack how American synagogue structures evolved to center the B’Nai Mitzvah as the “diploma event” of Jewish life, sometimes at the cost of deeper Jewish education and continuity. Hear their passionate conversation about the pitfalls of conflating Hebrew chanting with Jewish literacy, the impact of outsized parties, and the critical importance of authentic family Jewish practice.

Key highlights include: why post-mitzvah engagement matters more than ever, bold questions about the rites and rituals (should we even keep the Haftarah?), and refreshing, practical ideas for parents and communities who want to make Jewish milestones truly meaningful. This episode will challenge you to rethink not only what a B’Nai Mitzvah means—but what it could become.

Episode Overview & Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 – 00:04:33: Personal B’Nai Mitzvah memories from

  Rabbi Leora Londy

  and

  Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe

  : the process, communal involvement, and “cramming” for the big day.

• 00:04:34 – 00:08:02: The emotional aftermath, sense of responsibility, and what it means to be counted as part of a minyan.

• 00:08:03 – 00:12:48: The American synagogue’s transformation: How B’Nai Mitzvah became the centerpiece, fueling membership and financial support, and the dangers of equating preparation with genuine education.

• 00:12:51 – 00:17:19: Challenges for continuity: Are we setting kids up for Jewish adulthood, or just for relief when it’s “over”? Thoughts on practical knowledge versus ritual memorization.

• 00:17:20 – 00:28:30: What are the right outcomes? The synagogue’s efforts to foster lasting connection, working with teens, and the importance of community bonds.

• 00:28:31 – 00:33:11: Rethinking curriculum: Real-world Jewish learning, experiential education, and the debate about keeping tradition vs. adapting old rituals.

• 00:33:12 – 00:41:39: The family’s role: Can synagogues make kids Jewish without Jewish homes? Comparative insights from Israel and innovative ideas for deeper spiritual preparation.

• 00:41:40 – 00:47:39: The party paradox: The rise of extravagant celebrations vs. authentic, values-driven alternatives, especially in the wake of COVID restrictions.

• 00:47:40 – 00:53:04: Final reflections: Why lasting identity comes from real involvement, not just ceremonies; passing on Jewish legacy in a way that truly endures.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode will inspire you to ask the big questions about what Jewish tradition means today—and what it could mean tomorrow.

What if the Torah was the original blueprint for democracy?

On this eye-opening episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy dismantle the myth that democracy is a purely modern invention—and reveal its surprising roots in ancient Jewish texts.

In a time when democracy faces challenges around the world, Jonathan and Leora mine the wisdom of Deuteronomy, rabbinic debate, the roles of kings, prophets, and priests, and even the construction of the Sanhedrin, to ask: What does Judaism teach us about governance, dissent, and real communal leadership?

Key episode highlights include:

• Why the Torah presents the king as subject to law, not above it, and how that radical idea reshapes our understanding of power.
• The deep Jewish value of multivocality: robust arguments, multiple truths, and why a room full of loud opinions may actually be the healthiest sign of a community.
• Candid reflections on the fractures facing American and Israeli democracies, and what remains hopeful when governments falter—grassroots power, resilience, and chutzpah.
• A powerful discussion on whether we can still build bridges across political divides, or if polarization is the new norm—even in our own Jewish communities.
• How the process of "writing new Torah" and the real-life stories of Moses, David, and the daughters of Salophchad teach us about adapting and amending our systems for justice.
• Personal, vulnerable moments: When does Jewish identity outweigh civic identity? How do current events force us to question where we're safe, and who truly represents our values?

If you’ve ever wondered how Jewish tradition can light a path through the chaos of modern politics, or if it’s possible to repair democracy using ancient wisdom, this episode is for you.

Episode Overview

• [00:00:00] Introduction and framing: Where democracy and Torah collide
• [00:02:04] Covenant, community, and how Judaism models democratic debate
• [00:04:07] Why the king must carry—and obey—the law
• [00:06:16] The three crowns: Priesthood, monarchy, and Torah for everyone
• [00:10:35] What Jewish sources teach us about leadership and human flaw
• [00:13:44] Are American and Israeli democracies really in peril? Differing concerns and historical context
• [00:17:26] Grassroots activism: What Israel and the U.S. can learn from each other
• [00:24:40] Political polarization: Is there any room left for “purple” communities?
• [00:33:20] Can empathy bridge America’s gaping political divide?
• [00:42:29] Balancing Jewish particularism with civic responsibility
• [00:44:15] Amendment, adaptation, and lessons from the daughters of Salophchad
• [00:46:29] The sacredness of open argument—and Hillel vs. Shammai as a model for today
• [00:48:07] Final reflections: What Jewish values teach us about keeping democracy alive

Tune in for real talk, hard questions, and a journey through Jewish text as a roadmap for our moment in history.

Is Judaism more about peoplehood than religion—and what if “Jewish pride” doesn’t involve Israel at all?

This episode is bound to provoke surprising thoughts: Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy dive headfirst into one of the most emotionally charged questions facing American Jews today—how central should Israel be in our Jewish identity? From generational divides to personal stories of longing and belonging, the conversation goes far beyond politics, exposing some uncomfortable truths about how our identities as Jews and Americans have evolved.

Together, they wrestle with the idea of covenant versus individualism, and the loss of communal responsibility in American society. The hosts share poignant reactions to recent hostage releases in Israel, discuss the role of the Diaspora, and even turn the tables with an idea for “Reverse Birthright”—inviting Israelis to experience the vibrancy and inclusivity of American Jewish life.

From family mahjong games to mandatory military service and the divide between prophetic values and peoplehood, this episode asks: What happens when the most vital parts of Judaism outgrow old definitions? Can there be space for Jews who love their tradition but feel ambivalent, or even critical, about Israel?

Whether you’re a passionate Zionist, a progressive critic, or somewhere in between, this episode will give you new language—and empathy—to think about how Israel and America shape your Jewish identity.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00:00 – Intro to the topic: Israel’s place in Jewish identity, generational shifts, and the American-Jewish balance.
• 00:01:15 – Rabbi Londy’s evolution from Zionist upbringing to nuanced connection with Israel and Diaspora.
• 00:04:18 – Rabbi Jaffe: Assimilation patterns, particularism vs. universalism, impact of 1960s pride and Israel’s 1967 war.
• 00:07:35 – The “Jewish first, American second” dilemma and thoughts on future generations.
• 00:10:07 – Generational chapters: Baby boomers, birthright Judaism, and the new Jewish ambivalence toward Israel.
• 00:11:06 – Rabbi Londy’s personal story: Living in Israel vs. American critique, values and Tikkun Olam.
• 00:13:41 – Hostage releases in Israel: Emotional impact vs. religious connection; peoplehood as the heart of Judaism.
• 00:16:12 – Seder’s four children as a metaphor for diverse Jewish responses.
• 00:17:07 – Concerns for those who feel left out by Israel-centered Jewish life; making space for non-Israel-centric Judaism.
• 00:20:03 – “Reverse Birthright” explained: Israelis experiencing American Diaspora Judaism, pluralism, and mutual learning.
• 00:22:12 – Jewish learning in Israel vs. Diaspora: Talmudic roots, multi-generational debate, and complementarity.
• 00:25:56 – Franz Rosenzweig’s warning: Political vs. spiritual Judaism, and effects in Israel.
• 00:26:44 – Where American and Jewish values diverge: Individual freedom vs. communal responsibility and covenant.
• 00:28:50 – Rabbi Londy and teens on activism, responsibility, and civic engagement.
• 00:30:28 – The power of covenant in Israeli life; hostages as personal family, community strength.
• 00:33:42 – Ultra-Orthodox exemption from Israeli military service: Covenant, collective obligation, and emotional resonance.
• 00:34:52 – Decline of communal life and fraternal organizations in America, impact of Covid and individualism.
• 00:37:44 – Free Palestine movement & American activism; longing for community.
• 00:39:32 – Generational culture shifts, communal activities among boomers, and Covid’s aftermath.
• 00:41:34 – Dreaming of “national service” in America; learning from Israeli society.
• 00:42:20 – Closing reflections: Learning from both Americas and Israel, pride in both identities.
• 00:42:47 – Event plug for Reform Judaism in Israel.
• 00:43:31 – Outro and contact information.

Ready for a conversation that challenges old paradigms and brings new meaning to Jewish life, leadership, and identity? Tune in now.

What if the creation story in Genesis isn’t meant to be taken literally—or even as history at all?

In this thought-provoking episode of "In Such A Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership, and Meaning," Rabbis Leora Londy and Jonathan Jaffe dig deep into the cyclical return to the Torah’s origin stories and uncover how myth, memory, and meaning shape our Jewish identities.

Together, they unravel the two versions of creation in Genesis, exploring why these ancient stories still captivate and challenge the Jewish imagination year after year. Is the point of rereading the Torah about discovering new facts, or about remembering deeper truths that have been with us all along? The conversation dives into Jewish tradition’s interplay between myth and reality: Why does Torah remain central even in a world of modern science, evolution, and alternative creation narratives?

Rabbis Londy and Jaffe deftly bridge the gap between ancient mythologies and today’s spiritual quests, touching on the power of words, the importance of creating order from chaos, and the humbling notion that we are curators—not conquerors—of the world. You’ll also hear fascinating insights comparing the Jewish story of Eden with its Christian counterpart, and how the banishment from Eden might actually be a blessing.

Their discussion gets personal with stories from Israel and rabbinical school, and wraps with hopes for renewal—not just in the Torah cycle, but in our lives and even in the future of Israel itself.

Key highlights include:

• The mystical notion that learning Torah is actually “remembering” what’s already inside us.
• The significance of reading two creation stories—and why we need both a cosmic and a personal God.
• How Jewish tradition embraces multiple truths and resists simplistic answers.
• The role of time, organization, and the spoken word in the Torah’s vision of creation.
• Reconciling belief in science and evolution with love for the Torah’s stories.
• Why the Garden of Eden is not a place Jews seek to return to—and what partnership with God really means.
• Hopes for redemption, renewal, and deeper connection as we begin a new cycle of Torah and face new chapters in Jewish life.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to the new Torah reading cycle
• 00:01:45 – Why Jews reread the Torah: Memory vs. learning, and the journey of Torah
• 00:03:08 – Two Genesis stories: Cosmic vs. personal creation
• 00:06:32 – Creation as organization, not just “making” the world
• 00:09:20 – Creation as birth, mess, and the human struggle for order
• 00:14:13 – The power of words in Torah and daily life
• 00:15:01 – Jewish mythology versus other ancient mythologies
• 00:18:38 – A rabbinic story: Can evolution and Torah coexist?
• 00:23:13 – Why the Torah remains “our story” and shapes Jewish perspective
• 00:25:30 – Humility and responsibility: Humanity’s role in creation
• 00:27:31 – Eden: Why Jews embrace imperfection and creation outside paradise
• 00:31:08 – Kabbalah, withdrawal, and the space for human partnership
• 00:32:46 – Intentions for the new Torah cycle
• 00:33:57 – Hopes for renewal and redemption in Torah and Israel
• 00:36:05 – Closing blessings and wrap-up

Don’t miss this rich, heartfelt exploration of how the Torah’s oldest stories continue to challenge, renew, and connect us, no matter where—and when—we read them.

What happens when two rabbis admit they don't really like Thanksgiving—and one confesses he grew up celebrating Christmas with a tree and milk for Santa? In this eye-opening episode of “In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning,” Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy get candid about navigating non-Jewish holidays as Jewish Americans. Get ready for surprising personal stories, moments of humor, and the tough questions faced by modern Jewish families as they balance tradition, assimilation, and the lure (or loathing) of turkey and tinsel.

From volunteering at homeless shelters in lieu of turkey dinner, to longing for forbidden Halloween costumes, to the boundaries (and blurry lines) around Christmas trees, this week’s conversation is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to observe—or opt out of—American holidays through a Jewish lens. The hosts dissect where they draw the line between participating in broader cultural moments and holding fast to religious identity, sharing their own family compromises (think: Tofurky and Shabbat trick-or-treating) and how those decisions impact their children.

Key Highlights:

• Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe’s confessions about celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas as a child—and his take on why Thanksgiving food really isn’t that great.
• Rabbi Leora Londy’s reflections on volunteering during Thanksgiving and the tension of assimilating while protecting Jewish particularism.
• Honest dialogue about the "slippery slope" of participating in non-Jewish holidays and the challenge of setting (and justifying) family boundaries.
• The fascinating story of Russian-Jewish New Year tree traditions (“Novigod”) in Israel, and the reasons we cling to childhood rituals.
• Advice for navigating questions from congregants about celebrating Christmas, plus a bit of classic Jewish parental guilt for good measure.

This episode will challenge your assumptions, make you laugh, and inspire you to think about your own family’s practices in a whole new way.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00:00 – Intro Announcer sets the stage for this week’s discussion on Jewish life and non-Jewish holidays.
• 00:00:20 –Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy compare their vastly different upbringings around Thanksgiving and other “American” holidays.
• 00:03:43 – The rabbis explore what it’s like to grow up NOT celebrating Halloween or Christmas, and how interfaith work shaped Rabbi Leora Londy’s exposure to other traditions.
• 00:04:42 –Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe shares why he’s never loved Thanksgiving and offers a culinary hot take.
• 00:06:00 – The emotional significance of celebrating Thanksgiving as an immigrant in Israel.
• 00:09:29 – Where do families draw the line? Strategies for handling Thanksgiving, Halloween, and Christmas as Jewish parents.
• 00:13:18 – The complexity of Jewish families celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah together, and the contradictions therein.
• 00:18:48 – The discomfort with blurring boundaries between holidays, “Hanukkah bushes,” and Christian universalism.
• 00:22:11 – How Halloween serves as a test case for American Jewish communities and their boundaries.
• 00:26:44 – The surprise of Novigod “Christmas trees” in Israel and the power of cherished childhood traditions.
• 00:35:02 – Advice for families: How to fill the void with Jewish joy, not just holiday “fixes.”
• 00:38:29 – Outro and resources for further engagement.

Whether you cherish your Thanksgiving feast or wonder how to talk to your kids about Christmas lights, this episode offers authentic, thoughtful, and sometimes hilarious insight into Jewish life today.

In this eye-opening episode of In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe sits down with his longtime friend and colleague, Rabbi Ryan Bauer, Senior Rabbi of Temple Emanuel in San Francisco, to reveal the fascinating, sometimes hilarious, and truly surprising contrasts between Jewish community life on the East and West Coasts.

Get ready for stories you won’t believe: from the wild logistics of booking B’Nai Mitzvahs years in advance (complete with Google Docs and “party wars”) to why brisket is king in New York while lox and bagels reign supreme in San Francisco—even at shivas. You’ll hear about the reality of serving a congregation that churns by 10-15% each year, the entrepreneurial spirit that makes San Francisco’s Jewish scene an incubator for innovation (and failure!), and the culture shock Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe faced moving to the New York suburbs—where parking and family networks rule the day.

Key highlights include:

• The secret story behind Temple Emanuel’s $117 million renovation—why they didn’t add parking, and what they did instead.
• How demographic trends shape everything, from religious school logistics to what’s served at break-fast.
• Shocking differences in Jewish life: suburban “date wars” for B’Nai Mitzvahs, urban young adult surges, and the crisis of community in a city where no one stays in town forever.
• How East Coast Jews crave tradition and continuity, while West Coast Jews rewrite the book every week, often literally.
• The power and pitfalls of keeping your congregation innovative—and why sometimes, failure is the expectation.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about how place shapes Jewish identity, leadership, and ritual—or for anyone who has ever wondered why their synagogue serves so much babka or can’t find a parking spot on the High Holidays.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Intro Announcer welcomes listeners and sets the stage.
• [00:00:20] Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe introduces Rabbi Ryan Bauer, recounting their shared history and careers.
• [00:01:07] Rabbi Ryan Bauer shares the background of Temple Emanuel and his Bay Area journey.
• [00:03:00] Both discuss their formative years in Jewish leadership and the Bay Area context.
• [00:05:47] Dissecting the challenge of leading megasynagogues versus quick cultural resets.
• [00:06:46] The Temple Emanuel renovation: $117M, Third Temple inspiration, and the deliberate absence of parking.
• [00:08:24] Creating community: shifting from rabbi-centric to people-centered design.
• [00:09:49] The drama of synagogue parking on the East Coast vs. San Francisco.
• [00:10:47] School zoning, “hamlet” drama, and B’Nai Mitzvah scheduling gymnastics.
• [00:12:49] Navigating churn and the struggle to form lasting community in a transient urban Jewish world.
• [00:14:35] Family networks and the challenge of building community in suburbs, “competition” for event dates, and differences in lifecycle celebrations.
• [00:17:04] Addressing food, family, and High Holiday attendance—matzo ball soup, lox, and brisket wars.
• [00:21:31] Age demographics and the lack of young adults in suburban synagogues.
• [00:22:05] The ongoing success of young adult programming at Emanuel and the impact of COVID shut-downs.
• [00:24:03] Comparing professions, entrepreneurism, and risk-taking in the two regions’ communities.
• [00:26:57] Why innovation—and even failure—is second nature in San Francisco Jewish life.
• [00:28:05] Wild wedding requests, different definitions of “traditional,” and final thoughts on East vs. West Coast Jewish culture.

Tune in to laugh, learn, and have your assumptions about Jewish community turned upside down!

What if the morality of war wasn’t just debated in the halls of Congress, but had been dissected by Jewish scholars for centuries?

This week’s episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning" dives into one of the most dramatic news stories of the week—the U.S. raid to capture Venezuelan President Maduro—and confronts it with the wisdom of Jewish law.

Join Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy as they untangle the ancient Jewish principles behind warfare, asking: Was this a defensive act, or a dangerous show of unchecked power?

Is there a Jewish lens through which we can make sense of modern international conflicts?

Key highlights include:

• The shocking parallels between Maimonides’ (Rambam's) categories of war—obligatory vs. discretionary—and America’s military actions abroad.
• Spirited debate about whether Jewish law is still relevant when looking at today’s wars, and why it sometimes feels so personal or so distant.
• Thoughtful discussion on moral responsibility and the risks of executive power, illustrated by historical comparisons to the Noriega arrest and the current state of democracy in Venezuela.
• A candid reflection on America’s role in the world: Are we the moral exemplar or simply another self-interested nation? And what happens to our character when leaders stop admitting fault?
• Touching moments where both rabbis wrestle with personal uncertainty, searching for clarity amidst chaos, and reflect on what it means to be American, Israeli, and Jewish in a turbulent era.

If you’ve ever wondered how ancient texts can illuminate the ethical gray areas of today’s headlines—or if you’ve felt uneasy about the intersection of faith, politics, and war—this episode offers honest dialogue, historical context, and challenges listeners to think deeper.

Timestamped Episode Overview

• [00:00:00] – Welcome and introduction byIntro Announcer

• [00:00:20] –Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe

  introduces the topic: Jewish law and the U.S. raid on Venezuela

• [00:01:27] –Rabbi Leora Londy

  explains Rambam’s two categories of war: obligatory vs. discretionary

• [00:02:19] – Defining the purposes and structure of warfare in Jewish tradition

• [00:03:07] – Who holds authority in Jewish law: king, Sanhedrin, Urim and Tumim

• [00:03:55] – Framing the Venezuela raid: Does Jewish law apply? Comparing obligatory and discretionary war

• [00:06:49] – Debating immediate vs. elective military actions; parallels to Noriega’s arrest

• [00:13:21] – Concerns about executive power, democracy, and moral boundaries

• [00:21:04] – Why ancient halacha feels personal in Israel but distant in America

• [00:25:47] – America’s self-perception as a moral beacon and its changing role in the world

• [00:30:02] – Contrasting ideologies: rationalism vs. idealism; the need for a moral compass

• [00:33:06] – The struggle for accountability and responsibility among nations and leaders

• [00:34:53] – Waging war ethically: the necessity of humility and self-examination

• [00:37:13] – Democracy vs. dictatorship: Reflections on Venezuela, Israel, and world leadership

• [00:38:37] – Closing thoughts and call to subscribe

Don’t miss this episode—where timeless Jewish wisdom meets the unpredictability of current events.

What if your most meaningful connection to your loved ones—after they’re gone—comes from how you choose to mourn, not what you do for them?

This week’s episode of In Such a Time asks: Who is Shiva really for, and what happens when centuries-old Jewish burial traditions face modern challenges like cremation and composting?

Join Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe for a deeply thoughtful—and sometimes unexpected—conversation on Jewish rituals surrounding death, the afterlife, and mourning. From the sometimes misunderstood observance of Shiva to the dilemmas posed by new trends like green burials and body composting, our rabbis pull back the curtain on the complex layers of Jewish tradition, personal choice, and communal responsibility.

Key highlights include:

• The origins and real purpose of Shiva, including heartfelt advice for mourners: “Shiva is for you, not for your loved one.”
• Honest, often personal reflections on cremation, including its conflict with Jewish law, traumatic historical memory, and practical realities—and why rabbis struggle with their role.
• A candid look at composting and other eco-friendly burial options—are these spiritual, practical, or just disruptive to centuries of Jewish practice?
• The hidden beauty of Jewish cemeteries: how physical spaces and shared rituals connect generations and keep memory alive.
• Why making clear funeral and burial arrangements might be one of the greatest gifts you can leave for those you love.
• Touching stories—from Israeli cemeteries to family legacy—and conversations about how remembering the dead shapes the lives of the living.

Whether you’re wrestling with end-of-life choices, supporting someone grieving, or questioning how tradition fits in a changing world, this episode delivers honest wisdom, fascinating history, and practical insight—with warmth and a sense of humor.

Episode Overview with Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Introduction: Framing Jewish leadership and meaning in times of loss.
• [00:00:30] Common questions about Shiva and “how long is seven, Rabbi?”
• [00:01:10] The true roots and observance of Shiva—and how it’s often misunderstood or transformed into dinner parties.
• [00:02:20] Anxiety around hosting Shiva and the importance of letting mourners mourn.
• [00:03:10] Balancing tradition and meeting people where they’re at—providing halakhic guides and honoring personal choice.
• [00:04:43] Discussion: Social aspects of Shiva and its evolving forms across regions.
• [00:06:15] Shiva: For mourners, not the deceased.
• [00:08:00] Different regional cultural expectations for Shiva.
• [00:09:25] Cremation: Personal stories, theological and historical dilemmas (Holocaust memory, ecological concerns).
• [00:14:22] Jewish view of the body’s holiness and why physical burial matters—including anecdotes from Israel and experience with non-traditional burials.
• [00:21:12] The spiritual and psychological importance of laying bodies to rest.
• [00:23:30] The rise of composting/green burial: What’s Jewish? What’s not?
• [00:24:22] The unique meaning and connections created by family cemeteries, legacy, and memorialization.
• [00:29:37] Russian-Jewish headstones: how burial traditions reflect cultural adaptation.
• [00:31:18] Hawaii’s ocean burials—and what it reveals about community, place, and memory.
• [00:33:00] What rabbis can (and can’t) bless in terms of burial—and why tradition continues to matter.
• [00:34:30] Medieval midrash: Remembering the dead as healing for the living.
• [00:37:03] Final advice: Why preparing clear burial wishes is a gift to your loved ones.
• [00:39:21] Closing: How Jewish tradition supports mourners and the enduring power of legacy.

Ready to uncover what Jewish tradition really says about death—and what it means for the living? Listen now.

What if Judaism doesn’t have a clear doctrine about the afterlife?

In this eye-opening, two-part episode of "In Such a Time," Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy unravel one of the most avoided—and misunderstood—topics in Jewish life: death, grief, and what comes “next.” From candid childhood questions to the complexities of funerals in Israel, the hosts dive deep into how Jews talk (or don’t talk) about death, and why our discomfort might reveal more than our beliefs.

Key highlights include:

• The shock of how little the Torah directly says about the afterlife, in contrast to other religions
• Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe breaking down four main Jewish "lanes" of belief surrounding death—from physical resurrection to the impact of legacy
• Rabbi Leora Londy sharing poignant stories of children processing loss, and the transformative role of the chevra kadisha (burial society)
• A frank discussion on the differences between Israeli and American funerals, and how culture and superstition shape ritual
• Honest confession from both rabbis about what they actually believe, why certainty isn’t necessary, and how Jewish ritual helps everyone—doubters and believers alike—find meaning and comfort
• Powerful guidance on grief, remembrance, and why funerals might be the most life-affirming Jewish event of all

If you think death is a subject left for whispers and dark corners, this episode will surprise you. Prepare for stories that break open taboos, challenge easy answers, and equip you for the moments that matter most.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00 –Intro Announcer

  sets the stage for a frank conversation on Jewish life, leadership, and meaning

• 00:20 –Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe

  introduces the theme: Jewish beliefs about death and the afterlife, sparked by a congregant’s experience at a Christian funeral

• 01:36 –Rabbi Leora Londy

  discusses why Jews avoid talking about death and how childhood questions unlock the topic

• 03:25 – The role of children at funerals and how Jewish burial practices confront the reality of death

• 05:01 – Cultural contrasts between American and Israeli funerals and the existential weight of remembrance in Israel

• 07:16 –Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe

  outlines four central Jewish perspectives on the afterlife—physical resurrection, spiritual afterlife, return to the divine, and legacy through memory

• 12:46 –Rabbi Leora LondyRabbi Jonathan Jaffe

  and

  get personal about their own beliefs and the comfort (and discomfort) around religious “certainty”

• 17:15 – Why funerals are life-affirming, and what Jews really remember about their loved ones

• 29:39 – The emotional toll of officiating and mourning, and how Jewish ritual provides structure to weather grief

• 35:50 – Yearly rituals, Yizkor, and how communities continually support mourners

• 38:56 – The power of commemorating death days (Yahrzeit), tying together loss and new beginnings

• 39:53 – What’s next: A preview of part two with practical questions around Jewish mourning and the afterlife

This episode is packed with insights, vulnerability, and guidance for anyone grappling with questions of mortality—Jewish or not.

What if being publicly Jewish came with new dangers—even in places you’ve always felt safe?

In this riveting episode of "In Such a Time," Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy confront the unsettling reality facing Jewish communities after a horrific attack at Bondi Beach in Australia, which has sent shockwaves throughout the Diaspora. Together, they grapple with what this tragedy means for Jewish identity, communal gatherings, and the very notion of safety in Jewish spaces both in America and abroad.

Listeners will be drawn into a deep and raw discussion about fear, resilience, and anger. Rabbi Leora Londy shares the heartbreak of responding to her child’s worries and reflects on the tension between pride and self-preservation. Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe, wrestling with frustration, questions whether Jews will ever again gather freely outdoors, and challenges the community’s growing acceptance of security restrictions as a new normal.

The episode also takes an honest look at how American Jews perceive Israel—debunking alarmist caricatures and exploring why its reality often differs so greatly from the images projected abroad. The rabbis dive into historic responses to persecution, examine the complex interplay between Diaspora and Israeli Jewish life, and fiercely defend the importance of living Jewishly with pride and substance, not just in reaction to hatred.

Throughout, listeners will hear the rabbis reflect on mourning, heroism, the major schisms in Jewish history, and the new anxieties shaping conversations about aliyah, travel, and the future of Jewish safety. Finally, the episode closes on a note of hope—seeing Jewish strength shine, even as communities everywhere light Hanukkah candles under challenging circumstances.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and dedication to victims of Bondi Beach attack
• [00:01:22] Processing the tragedy: Emotional responses, conversations with children, and the fear of not being fully safe
• [00:03:39] Anger, leadership failures, and questions about the future of public Jewish gatherings
• [00:05:38] The ongoing dialogue about anti-Semitism, Jewish identity, and how the world’s hate often targets Jews first
• [00:07:54] Reflecting on security in Diaspora communities and the shift from openness to restriction
• [00:13:39] Lessons from Jewish history: Resilience, authenticity, martyrdom vs. self-preservation
• [00:21:05] American Jewish perceptions of Israel and addressing myths vs. reality
• [00:27:20] The miracle and challenges of Israel, Diaspora connections, and the power of multicultural Jewish life
• [00:38:28] Closing: Safety in Israel vs. Diaspora, evaluating risks, and the evolving dream of Zionism
• [00:42:19] Outro and ways to connect with the rabbis and Temple Bethel

episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking deeply about Jewish identity, community safety, and the choices facing Jews today.

What if everything you thought you knew about Hanukkah was wrong?

In this episode of "In Such a Time," Rabbis Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy unravel the true story behind the Festival of Lights—revealing its messy origins, historical surprises, and the wild ways its meaning keeps evolving. Is Hanukkah really about fighting oppression… or is there much more below the surface? You’ll hear the rabbis candidly discuss childhood memories, Israeli traditions, the role of food (think sufganiyot and homemade beeswax candles), and why the holiday's symbolism differs so sharply between America and Israel.

Key highlights include:

• The surprising roots of Hanukkah: Why the Maccabees’ story isn’t in the Bible—and why their zealotry may shock modern listeners.
• Hanukkah’s dual identity: How Zionist, secular, and religious communities reinterpret the holiday to suit their values.
• The tension between assimilation and tradition: How American Jews have transformed Hanukkah into a holiday of inclusion, and what that means for Jewish identity today.
• Personal anecdotes: From New York winter darkness to Israeli honey-sweet celebrations, and the powerful memory of lighting a Hanukkiah made from bullet casings in a military town.
• Honest conversations about changing rituals, the influence of Christmas, and what the next generation of Hanukkah might look like.

With wit, warmth, and deep historical insight, this episode is both a celebration and a challenge: How do Jews stay rooted in tradition without losing relevance—or their distinctiveness—in a changing world? If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Hanukkah and reflect on what “Jewish continuity” really means, this discussion is for you.

Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Introduction & Podcast Welcome
• [00:00:21] Hanukkah Childhood Memories and Family Traditions
• [00:01:28] Hanukkah in Israel: Sufganiyot, Candle Lighting, and Community Celebrations
• [00:02:57] Hanukkah as a Zionist Holiday & Massive Lego Hanukkiah
• [00:03:49] Hanukkah in New York vs. Hawaii: Seasonal Contrasts
• [00:05:36] Hanukkah’s Home-Based Traditions & Changing Rituals
• [00:07:03] The Real Story Behind Hanukkah: Civil War, Disorganized Religion, and Changing Narratives
• [00:08:12] The Hasmonean Ruins & The Drive for Jewish Continuity
• [00:10:37] Rededication, Sukkot Connection, and the Miracle Narrative
• [00:13:25] The Maccabees: Zealotry vs. Modern Reinterpretation
• [00:15:20] Hanukkah in the U.S.: Diversity, Inclusion, and Christmas Influence
• [00:16:12] The Maccabees as Enforcers? A Modern Comparison
• [00:17:08] Religious vs. Secular Observance: Miracle or Resilience
• [00:18:00] The Miracle of Light: Faith, Ritual, and Meaning
• [00:20:03] Hanukkah and Jewish Survival: Assimilation & Persistence
• [00:22:20] Tradition vs. Change: How Hanukkah Has Evolved
• [00:23:41] Ranking Jewish Holidays and Hanukkah’s Changing Status
• [00:24:55] How Shifting Priorities Shape Jewish Observance
• [00:26:30] The Next Generation: Hanukkah’s Bittersweet Future
• [00:29:33] History Moves in Cycles: Rediscovering Hanukkah’s Deeper Meaning
• [00:30:24] The Importance of Keeping Judaism Jewish
• [00:34:08] Hanukkiot of Bullet Casings: Military Memory and Jewish Identity
• [00:36:04] The Responsibility & Symbolism of Israeli Militarism
• [00:37:00] Closing Reflections and a Wish for a Joyful, Meaningful Hanukkah

Tune in and discover the Hanukkah you never knew—and may never see the same way again.

What happens when synagogue affiliation is no longer defined by denominational labels like Reform, Conservative, or Orthodox—but instead, by politics and stances on Israel?

In this eye-opening episode of Lou Diamond: In Such a Time (“Episode 16”), co-hosts Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy dive deep into the shifting landscape of American Jewish life. The conversation shatters assumptions about how Jews identify today, revealing that denominational boundaries may be fading while politics—especially relating to Israel—ramp up as the decisive factor in community engagement.

You’ll learn about:

• The historical roots of Jewish denominations and why the original purpose behind them may no longer resonate.
• The personal journeys of Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe, who share how growing up across multiple Jewish movements shaped their perspectives and spiritual fluidity.
• How synagogue membership and Jewish organization participation are being increasingly determined by political views, particularly regarding Zionism and Israel—and the risks of turning Jewish communities into political islands.
• Insider stories about rabbis, educational choices, and what happens when congregants challenge a synagogue’s stance on Israel.
• The tension between the desire for inclusive, meaningful spiritual communities and the pressure to pick sides on hot-button issues.
• The big question: As individualism and politics reshape Jewish engagement, what does the future hold for denominational labels, communal boundaries, and the essence of Jewish identity?

Whether you’re a curious seeker, committed member, or just passionate about the evolving story of Jewish life, this conversation will spark reflection and debate. Are we at the threshold of a “wilderness moment” where communal norms are up for reinvention—or are we risking fragmentation beyond repair?

Timestamped Episode Overview:

• [00:00:00] Welcome and episode intro: redefining Jewish affiliation
• [00:00:22] History of Jewish denominations
• [00:01:58] The evolution of Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox movements
• [00:03:15] Personal experiences of movement fluidity
• [00:05:45] Blending of denominational practices in modern synagogues
• [00:09:26] Gender perspectives and synagogue inclusion
• [00:13:31] Navigating Jewish spaces—where do rabbis go to pray?
• [00:19:16] The rise of politics as the organizing principle in Jewish life
• [00:23:05] Polarization over Israel and Zionism: personal stories and concerns
• [00:32:04] Balancing community inclusivity with core synagogue values
• [00:36:35] Should politics take center stage in the synagogue?
• [00:41:04] Responding to antisemitism and its impact on Jewish identity
• [00:41:54] The future: movements, organizations, individualism, and spiritual belonging
• [00:44:40] Closing reflections and gratitude

Don’t miss this provocative episode—subscribe and join the conversation as Judaism faces one of its most defining crossroads.

What if your rabbi’s outfit had more to do with your spiritual experience than you ever imagined? In this eye-opening episode of In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning, Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Landi dive deep into the controversial world of fashion, physical presentation, and the unique scrutiny faced by rabbis—especially women—in Jewish communities.

You’ll be shocked by the stories shared, from being asked to “turn into a man” for ceremonies in Israel to being gifted shoes by congregants in the U.S., all revealing just how much clergy are judged by how they look, and how these judgments intersect with power, gender, and leadership. Rabbi Landi opens up about the internal and external pressures faced around style, body image, and what it means to “look” like a rabbi, while Rabbi Jaffe explores the low expectations men benefit from and what happens when these stereotypes get perpetuated—even by bobbleheads!

The conversation isn’t just about clothes: it’s about identity, boundaries, values, and how congregational norms shape everything—even which career doors open for female and LGBTQ rabbis. From the theological meaning behind priestly garments in the Torah to the real-life negotiations rabbis must make between authenticity and relatability, this episode will make you rethink what you see (and don’t see) at the pulpit.

Whether it’s deciding what to wear for the High Holidays, figuring out the messaging behind headbands and kipot, or considering the subtle double standards for women in leadership, Rabbis Jaffe and Landi bring humor, vulnerability, and gripping honesty to a taboo topic. If you’ve ever wondered how much appearance matters in sacred spaces—or how to respectfully address your clergy—this is the episode you can’t miss.

Episode Highlights & Timestamped Overview:

• [00:00:00] Intro: What rabbis look like and why congregations care
• [00:01:17] Rabbi Landi’s Israel stories: Being asked to find a man for ceremonies
• [00:02:45] Challenges for women in leadership; rabbinic fashion scrutiny
• [00:04:17] Real congregant interactions: Unexpected comments and gifts
• [00:05:10] Bobbleheads & Rabbi stereotypes: The “old man” caricature
• [00:06:09] Clothing, identity & Torah: Meaning behind priestly garments
• [00:10:16] Formality, approachability, and synagogue culture shift
• [00:11:01] Robes, tallit, and the pressures of female clergy presentation
• [00:12:11] Gender roles, dress codes, and contradictory feelings
• [00:13:05] Head coverings as a statement: Politics, identity, and fashion
• [00:17:07] Synagogue “norms”; double standards for female clergy
• [00:19:02] Navigating rabbinic identity in Israel vs. the U.S.
• [00:23:29] The “whole package” dilemma for female rabbis
• [00:26:05] Authenticity and relatability: Sharing personal life on the bima
• [00:32:10] Dress & awe: Creating sacred moments vs. showing up “as you are”
• [00:34:46] Gendered interactions: Congregant stories about body boundaries
• [00:38:41] Practical advice for respectfully addressing female clergy
• [00:41:14] Social media, taboo, and owning rabbinic style

Download, listen, and join the conversation on Jewish leadership, identity, and what’s truly “appropriate” on the bima.

What happens when the sacred act of protest collides with violence—and what does Judaism truly say about standing up, dissent, and crossing the line? This week’s episode of “In Such A Time” dives explosively into the turbulent debates around recent ICE protests in Minnesota, exploring not just policy and politics but the very essence of Jewish ethical responsibility in moments of national crisis.

Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe take listeners on a passionate journey through the layered complexities of protest: When does protest become hooliganism? Is it ever justified to block law enforcement if you believe the law itself is unjust? As scenes of violence and heartbreak unfold on American streets, the rabbis wrestle openly with agreement, disagreement, and the dilemma of witnessing human suffering versus respecting the law. They challenge listeners to move beyond empty platitudes, question the purpose and consequences of collective action, and to reflect deeply on the micro- and macro-level effects protest has on society.

Key highlights include:

• Personal and Jewish historical reflections on the necessity—and limits—of protest, including the example of Abraham’s challenge to God.
• The emotional and ethical impact of ICE enforcement and the way immigration sweeps have affected families and community.
• The danger of protest culture drifting into the performative or the cult-like, and the need for informed, purposeful activism.
• A raw debate about human rights, law enforcement, and the responsibilities of governments and citizens.
• Parallels between American protests and those in Israel, especially around policy, collective behavior, and heartbreaking losses from violence.
• A poignant closing as both rabbis grapple with their anxieties for democracy and offer prayers for peace, human dignity, and thoughtful civic engagement.

Timestamped Episode Overview:

• 00:00: Welcome and introduction to the topic of protest and ICE.
• 01:21: Initial reflections on the health of protest in democracy and Jewish perspectives.
• 03:27: Differentiating types of protest: nonviolent, hooliganism, blocking law enforcement.
• 07:53: Wrestling with moral responsibilities when faced with injustice.
• 12:03: The human side of immigration, due process, and compassion.
• 18:25: Emotional distress, policy vs. humanity, how enforcement impacts families.
• 23:29: Lively debate over political platitudes versus concrete policy solutions.
• 31:37: Parallels with Israeli protests and tragic consequences of collective action.
• 40:49: The psychology of protest movements, cult-like behaviors, and collective action.
• 44:21: Personal responsibility, informed activism, and impacts of protest in society.
• 49:56: Inspiring moments of global protest, hope, and calls for humane policy and peace.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the meaning of protest, the future of democracy, and the demands of conscience—revealing just how fraught and vital these conversations are in such a time.

What do kosher hot dogs, mummified chickens, and a mall food court have in common?

In this surprisingly candid and humorous episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," hosts Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe dig deep into the intricacies—and idiosyncrasies—of kashrut, the Jewish dietary laws.

From Kalua pig at Hawaiian bat mitzvahs to high-priced Passover pizzas at the American Dream Mall, they explore how keeping kosher shapes identity, creates community, and offers spiritual meaning, even amidst the chaos of modern life. Along the way, you'll hear about their personal journeys: why Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe draws the moral line at mammals, how Rabbi Leora Londy navigates diner omelets and chicken nuggets for her kids, and why the "cold dairy" salad might be the most Jewish lunch order of all.

Their thoughtful conversation reveals why the rules of kashrut go far beyond food—they’re about humility, boundary, mindfulness, and authentic connection, whether you're buying groceries in Spring Valley, arguing for kosher kitchen standards at synagogue, or pondering why a Tel Aviv restaurant offers shrimp… on matzah.

Key highlights include:

• The origins and evolving purpose of kashrut, from biblical times to the modern Reform movement
• How keeping kosher connects Jews to their community, tradition, and everyday spirituality
• Ethical conundrums, arbitrary boundaries, and the challenges of kosher dining in Israel vs the diaspora
• Joyful and sometimes absurd stories from kosher supermarkets, food courts, and childhood science experiments
• Recommendations for local kosher eateries and why the kosher scene is changing (spoiler: less sushi!)
• How kashrut teaches patience, humility, and the value of not always getting what you want

Episode Overview

• [00:00:00] Welcome and intro to Jewish life, leadership, and meaning
• [00:00:20] Exploring kashrut: definitions, personal journeys, and ethical lines
• [00:05:07] What the Torah says (and doesn’t say) about kosher laws
• [00:08:08] How kashrut fosters Jewish identity and community
• [00:10:43] Reform Judaism’s evolving stance on “kitchen Judaism”
• [00:14:02] Supermarket stories, communal moments, and kosher pride
• [00:15:41] Mall food court sociology and kosher eating in public spaces
• [00:20:02] The reality of keeping kosher in Israel versus the diaspora
• [00:26:03] Arbitrary rules, cold dairy jargon, and childhood dietary dilemmas
• [00:29:11] Boundaries, humility, and teaching kids about kosher values
• [00:32:07] Connecting to ancestral diets, biblical vegetarianism, and mummified chickens
• [00:37:57] Favorite kosher restaurants, markets, and new trends in kosher dining
• [00:43:17] Wrap-up: kosher salt trivia and closing thoughts

For anyone curious about what it truly means to keep kosher—or looking for some great foodie tips!—this episode is both enlightening and entertaining.

What if traveling to the U.S. from Israel meant sneaking across borders, hiding your Jewish identity, and relying on bus rides, taxis, and flights through countries that aren't always friendly to Jews? I

n this episode, Rabbi Benny Minich shares his extraordinary journey—literally and figuratively—from Crimea to Israel to the United States, peeling back the curtain on what it means to be Jewish, a rabbi, and a Reform movement leader today.

Hosted by Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe, this episode dives into Benny’s personal story: escaping war zones, leading a reform community under fire (sometimes literally), and finding creative ways to keep his congregation connected when school is closed, flights are canceled, and air raid sirens send everyone to the bomb shelter. Benny unpacks the complexities of Israeli religious life, the unique challenges of building non-Orthodox community in Israel, and how his experiences in American synagogues changed his own vision of Jewish life. Against a backdrop of current headlines and conflict, this is a hopeful, inspiring conversation about resilience, innovation, and the global Jewish family.

Timestamped Overview:00:00 Introduction and Benny’s dramatic journey to America04:00 Benny’s upbringing in Crimea and path to Israeli Reform rabbinate08:00 Russian-speaking Jews in Israel and Reform community growth12:00 Family realities: life during wartime, bomb shelters, closed schools19:00 Humor, community, and coping strategies in crisis23:00 The state of the Reform movement in Israel & political challenges31:00 Government, synagogue funding, and legal battles for recognition36:00 Lessons from American synagogues & reciprocal learning41:00 Pluralism, identity, and raising Jewish kids across borders45:00 What’s next: adventures in America, building bridges, and hope

What if the greatest threat to peace isn’t war—but silence?

In this episode of "In Such a Time," Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy record on Purim, glitter and all, confronting the deep anxieties and hopes stirred by the unfolding conflict with Iran, Israel’s precarious situation, and the emotional toll it takes on Jews worldwide.

With rare honesty, the rabbis debate the difference between true peace and mere quiet, reveal why Israelis resonate with displays of power, and wrestle with the limits of diplomacy in a turbulent Middle East. They share personal reflections—both have family and roots in Israel—and touch on the very real risks for Jews everywhere when headlines flare. Along the way, themes of resilience, boundary-setting, and hope for a freer, safer Iran emerge, interwoven with timely Purim insights about power and survival.

Plus, the episode doesn’t shy away from the internal struggles within Israel itself, drawing sharp parallels between religious extremism in Iran and restrictive trends at the Western Wall, leaving listeners with food for thought about Jewish identity, freedom, and what it really means to “love your country.”

Episode Overview:

[00:00] Welcome & Purim vibes

[00:20] Opening up about the emotional toll of new conflict

[01:12] The exhaustion and uncertainty of ongoing war

[02:43] Navigating Jewish, Israeli, and Western perspectives on power

[06:15] The realities of strength and maintaining boundaries in the Middle East

[08:07] Inspiration from Iranian protestors & Purim’s message

[09:00] The complicated nature of leadership and outcomes

[10:40] Reflecting on diplomacy, consequences, and American foreign policy

[13:07] The challenge of balancing idealism and reality

[14:35] When optimism meets harsh realities—Jewish survival and trust

[17:19] Facing critiques of Israel and the morality of war

[18:07] The dehumanizing effects of modern warfare

[20:28] Military service: cultural gaps between Israel and the West

[22:18] Rethinking sacrifice, heroism, and generational shifts in Israel

[25:18] Stories of young Israelis and changing models of military service

[26:54] Hopes for a peaceful resolution and Iranian freedom

[29:03] What’s at stake for Jews worldwide and the region

[33:14] The Western Wall, religious extremism, and Jewish identity

[35:41] Wrapping up with hope, humor, and a Purim sendoff

What if the villain of Purim, Haman, isn’t as evil as you thought—and Esther, the celebrated heroine, isn’t quite so perfect?

Dive into a conversation that will challenge everything you think you know about the Book of Esther.

In this episode of "In Such a Time," Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy bring fresh eyes to the Purim story, exploring the complex motivations and personalities of its most famous figures. Together, they peel back layers of traditional interpretation, examine feminist perspectives on Vashti and Esther, and draw provocative modern parallels—from the MeToo movement to the ethical dilemmas of power and vulnerability in today’s society.

Key highlights include:

• Reframing Vashti as a proto-MeToo figure standing up to harassment
• The gray morality of Esther, Haman, and Mordechai—are they really hero and villain?
• Why the commandment to blot out Amalek may be more about confronting our own inner darkness than an ancient enemy
• The enduring struggle between Jewish identity in the diaspora and the land of Israel, and what Esther means for Jews today
• Thoughtful debate on how Purim’s story relates to modern day extremism, leadership, and personal transformation

If you’ve ever been curious about the deeper messages of Megillat Esther or the relevance of Purim in today’s world, this warm, lively episode will leave you with new insights and big questions.

Episode Overview:

• 00:00

  Introduction and why Esther’s story is more relevant (and tricky) than ever

• 00:57

  Vashti, Esther, and feminist readings of Megillat Esther

• 03:33

  Exploring gray areas: Are the good guys really that good?

• 05:58

  The origins of the story—is Esther fiction or fact?

• 07:43

  Amalek, morality, and revenge—ancient enemies and internal struggles

• 12:09

  How the Book of Esther is being interpreted in today’s world

• 17:10

  Rethinking Haman’s motivations—enemy or opportunist?

• 26:45

  Esther in the diaspora vs. Israel—a tale still playing out today

• 31:05

  Is Esther really a heroine? Character complexity and personal growth

• 39:17

  Final takeaways: embracing complexity and wishing a meaningful Purim

Listen to rethink, reflect, and rediscover the Purim story you thought you knew!

What if we told you that one of Judaism's most joyous holidays is also its most misunderstood—and, for some, even the least favorite?

Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy dive headfirst into the revelry, complexity, and deep meaning behind Purim. From festive street parties in Israel to the hidden existential lessons of the Book of Esther, this conversation explores why Purim is so much more than just costumes and cookies.

You'll hear honest confessions about Purim preferences, a spirited debate about diaspora vs. Zionism, and powerful insights into how this holiday can empower and challenge us—no matter where we live. They tackle everything from the pressures of mishloach manot to the mystical importance of masks and the unexpected spiritual connections between Purim and Yom Kippur. Whether you love or dread Purim, this episode will change the way you see it.

Timestamped Overview:

• 00:00: Welcome & holiday setup
• 00:25: The Purim debate—love vs. dislike
• 01:16: Behind-the-scenes of Israeli Purim celebrations
• 04:03: Purim parties, costumes, and foodie traditions
• 05:47: Revelry and the psychological/spiritual timing of Purim
• 07:55: The dual nature of Purim in Jerusalem
• 09:05: Zionist and diaspora narratives in Purim
• 11:04: Esther, hiddenness, and spiritual seeking
• 14:41: Choosing empowerment in diaspora Jewish life
• 15:34: The enigmatic "drink until you don't know" tradition
• 16:38: Mysticism: costumes, masks, and revealing truth
• 18:34: Discovering Jewish identity in and out of Israel
• 20:04: Hiddenness, revelation, and preparation for freedom
• 20:47: Code-switching, names, and forging identity
• 22:35: Purim's relevance for Westchester and modern communities
• 23:20: A critique of Purim as a "kids’ holiday"
• 25:00: Celebrations, traditions, and the fish phenomenon
• 26:09: Adult engagement and meaningful ritual
• 29:06: The wisdom of the 5 Megillot and Purim’s message for adults
• 31:47: The cycle of joy and sadness in Jewish life
• 33:19: Randomness, lots, and embracing depth behind the celebration
• 34:33: The Fast of Esther and connections to Yom Kippur
• 36:26: Looking ahead: a deeper dive into the Book of Esther

Ready to discover the real Purim? Press play.

What if everything you’ve been told about fighting antisemitism isn’t just ineffective—but could actually fuel the problem?

Rabbis Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy dive headfirst into the controversy sparked by a $15 million Super Bowl ad, dissecting whether public campaigns against antisemitism truly help—or just reinforce Jewish vulnerability.

They unpack the critiques swirling around the ad’s messaging, and explore Bret Stephens’ provocative call for Jews to “stop fighting hatred” and instead invest in Jewish life and identity. Is Jewish resilience found in building bridges and institutions or simply by “leaning in” to authentic Jewish practice? The episode tackles the tension between withdrawal from public advocacy versus the risks of becoming insular, and asks whether Jewish identity should hinge on opposition to antisemitism or on positive, lived experiences.

Listen as Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy share personal stories about raising children safely in America, discuss the ebb and flow of Jewish history—from Mount Sinai Hospital to Brandeis University—and debate the complexities of intermarriage and inclusion in today’s Jewish community. As they reflect on powerful moments with their teens, the hosts leave us with a message of hope: Maybe the most sacred work is neither fighting nor fleeing, but deepening relationships and living Jewish authenticity.

Episode Overview by Timestamp:

• 00:00: Welcome and introduction to the week's conversation
• 00:19: Setting the stage: Super Bowl antisemitism ad and Bret Stephens’ speech
• 01:01: Hosts’ reactions to the ad, and issues around “victimhood”
• 04:34: Comfort, discomfort, and playing into antisemitism
• 05:51: Martin Buber, self-understanding, and the futility of fighting hatred
• 06:48: Is money spent fighting antisemitism wasted?
• 08:47: The ebb and flow of Jewish history and communal strategies
• 11:10: Teens’ response: less reactionary, more rooted Jewish identity
• 13:13: College safety, guidance counselors, and Jewish identity after Oct 7
• 15:05: What are the actionable steps? Learning and investing in Judaism
• 18:42: The risks of leaving the public arena
• 19:46: What does it mean to be Jewish—identity vs. opposition
• 20:39: Sustaining Jewish identity: holding onto values and knowledge
• 22:28: The dilemma of inclusivity, standards, and intermarriage
• 24:25: Real-life examples—the most Jewish kids sometimes come from intermarriage
• 27:12: Personal stories: Is it worth explaining yourself to others?
• 29:42: Is one conversation at a time the way the world works?
• 33:27: Recap of the second, AI-generated rebuttal ad
• 35:39: Diasporic Jew vs. Israeli Jew—narrative fatigue and what comes next
• 37:38: The power of authentic relationships (Pardon The Interruption, community, allies)
• 41:48: Final reflections & a hopeful call for deeper Jewish identity and connection

Subscribe, listen, and ask yourself: Should we redefine what it means to be Jewish—starting now?

What if the most transformative moments in Jewish prayer aren’t found in the words—but in the music you didn’t even know was shaping your spirit?

In this revelatory episode of “In Such a Time,” Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy pull back the curtain on their very different—but unexpectedly harmonious—musical journeys into the rabbinate. Whether you think you’re “not a music person,” grew up bored by synagogue choirs, or can’t imagine prayer without melody, this conversation exposes how the sounds and silence of Jewish life have quietly been shaping us all along.

You’ll hear Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe reveal his musical roots in Hawaiian slack key guitar and rock bands, and why his childhood counted synagogue music as little more than “filler”—before a single encounter in San Francisco flipped everything he believed. Rabbi Leora Londy shares the hidden power of growing up with a cantor-mother, geeking out on the “sounds of the season,” and the shock of standing in an unfamiliar synagogue in Florence where her musical “Jewish GPS” stopped working.

Highlights from this episode include:

• The hilarious and humbling stories (“I only learned bassoon for the grade!”) behind each rabbi’s path to spiritual songleading
• Unpacking why Jewish prayer can feel stale or electrifying—and why feeling lost in the music might actually be a sacred moment
• The tug-of-war between tradition and innovation: Should services be a familiar playlist or a boundary-pushing “concert”—and what happens when congregants push back?
• Powerful vignettes from transformative musical moments: women’s nigun circles, rain-soaked prayer gatherings, and kids who learn Shabbat tunes before they know what they mean.
• An invitation to listeners to reflect: What music moves you? And how alive could Jewish community feel if you let yourself sing (or dance!) along?

Whether you’re a foot-tambourine-wielding Shabbat rocker or a reluctant participant on the back row, this episode will make you rethink the soundtrack of your Jewish soul.

Episode Overview with Timestamps:

• 00:00: Welcome, introduction & theme—why talk about music and prayer?
• 00:32: Rabbi Leora Londy shares her musical upbringing & the deep role of Jewish liturgy at home
• 05:48: Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe confesses his lack of early musical connection to synagogue—and why that matters
• 07:52: A dive into Hawaiian and “slack key” guitar: how secular music influences Jewish life
• 11:35: Turning from rock music to Jewish songleading—unexpected spiritual connections
• 14:15: The aliveness of jazz, hip hop, and authentic, unscripted prayer
• 17:08: How synagogue environment and music shape mood—subtle signals of community
• 19:43: The balance between curation, creativity, and meeting congregants’ expectations
• 22:19: The “sounds and smells of the season”—how music marks sacred time in Jewish life
• 24:02: The shock and beauty of experiencing unfamiliar Jewish musical traditions
• 25:21: Israel’s unique blend of pop and sacred song—how secular music echoes the sacred
• 26:17: Discovering the power of communal singing in Jerusalem, summer camp, and bomb shelters
• 30:29: Deep dives into women’s song circles and reclaiming forbidden melodies
• 34:37: Making prayer less “performance,” more community: tools for bringing everyone into the experience
• 36:36: Open questions to listeners: What are you open (or not open) to trying in prayer?
• 37:13: Real-world recommendations for musical, inspiring services in Westchester, NYC and beyond
• 39:01: The awkwardness (and necessity) of authenticity—what Jewish worship can learn from “Sister Act”-style churches
• 42:07: Why nigunim (wordless melodies) matter, and stories that will move you to tears
• 46:36: A rabbinic “band”—what happens when the clergy have as much fun as the kids
• 48:34: Wrapping up with a beloved nigun—and an invitation to let melody shake your soul

Ready to rediscover how music stirs meaning, belonging, and surprise in Jewish life? Hit play.

What if the most misunderstood—and seemingly bizarre—book of the Torah actually holds the key to living a meaningful, connected, and sacred life today?

In this episode of In Such a Time, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy journey through the often-overlooked Book of Leviticus, exploring everything from ancient rituals of purity, sacrifices, and illness to how those concepts inspire the way we build relationships, create holiness in our daily lives, and even structure our Friday night Shabbat tables.

You’ll hear stories both harrowing and humorous, like how Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe gave a dvar Torah on purity with actual blood dripping down his face, and discover why the Torah’s teachings on illness and community were actually radical and compassionate for their time. The conversation turns thoughtful and provocative as the rabbis wrestle with changing societal boundaries, the meaning behind ancient laws, and how to bring the awe and intentionality of temple rituals into modern Jewish living.

Don’t miss this deep dive that might just change how you see a part of our tradition most people skip over!

Episode Overview:

00:00 Welcome back; setting up the Book of Leviticus and its themes

01:26 What is Vayikra? Early memories and stories from Tazria-Metzora

02:06 The challenge of impurity and awkward Torah portions

04:43 Bar/bat mitzvah struggles with Leviticus and finding relevance

06:59 What Leviticus is really about: sacrifices, purity, and closeness

09:57 Animal sacrifice as spiritual connection and replacement with prayer

12:23 Ritual purity, the separation of life and death, and gender dynamics

15:07 Illness, stigma, and how Leviticus advances ancient compassion

19:02 Kohanim, communal responsibility, and the model of accountable leadership

21:00 Sacrifice as community-building—like a biblical barbecue

24:01 The visceral impact of ancient sacrifice versus modern prayer

26:07 Shabbat dinner and structuring modern spiritual moments from Leviticus

31:47 Boundaries in relationships and evolving perspectives on holiness

33:37 Wrestling with Leviticus’ values in a contemporary context

36:27 Leviticus as experiential education and Sinai re-enactment

39:17 The chiastic structure—holiness at the Torah’s center

41:02 Leviticus as constitution: striving for sacredness and being “all in”

42:05 Inviting deeper study and wrapping up with resources and reflections

What if the ancient Jewish blessing for newborns—to study Torah, perform good deeds, and one day get married—no longer fits our modern lives?

This episode dives headfirst into the evolving role of marriage within Jewish tradition, asking whether meaningful lives require sacred relationships or if today’s realities demand more inclusive interpretations. The conversation focused on how liturgy, cultural expectations, and Torah values intertwine with individual choices, from celebrating couples and families to affirming those who embrace singlehood, diverse relationship structures, or child-free living.

One concept discussed was how the language and boundaries of tradition adapt (or resist adaptation) in a rapidly changing world. Several points were raised, including whether marriage—a central Jewish value—should remain the ideal, how modern realities around procreation expand beyond traditional frameworks, and how communities can honor both heritage and innovation without leaving anyone out.

Timestamped Overview:

[00:00] Welcome and introduction; framing the big question around baby-naming and liturgical blessings[00:55] Traditions of blessing babies for future marriage—should this still be central?[02:11] Reevaluating assumptions: The pressure to solve “singlehood” in the Jewish community[05:37] Language of relationships in Hebrew and the cultural focus on couplehood[07:54] Scriptural and theological roots for prioritizing marriage[09:48] Jewish tradition, divorce, and the complexity of sacred relationships[11:16] Modern realities: procreation, family structures, and choices outside marriage[12:06] Navigating the boundaries of tradition and new relationship models[14:48] Addressing individuals who choose solitude or non-traditional paths[17:56] The challenge of offering advice rooted in Jewish tradition versus personal bias[19:52] Personal perspectives shaped by context and upbringing[21:27] Translating and updating liturgical language to reflect diverse relationships[22:46] Inclusivity, evolving models, and the risk of boundaryless tradition[23:49] Marriage, parenthood, and shifting social responsibilities[26:11] Reflections on family, loneliness, and reconfiguring community bonds[27:03] Defending the central place of marriage and family in Jewish life[29:20] Balancing tradition with inclusion and support for all kinds of lives[30:35] Jewish tradition’s historical and legal approach to polyamory[30:56] Considering child-free marriages and how blessings infer expectations[33:34] Concerns about new generational trends and fulfillment[34:24] Teens’ perspectives on marriage and raising Jewish families[35:31] Translating blessings to allow for meaningful but nontraditional relationships[36:36] Final thoughts: wrestling with tradition, modern values, and what it means to bless a life

What if the very heart of Reform Judaism—its relationship to Israel—was up for debate in the ordaining of new rabbis?

This episode of "In Such a Time" plunges into the charged question rocking Hebrew Union College and the wider Reform movement: Should future clergy be required to support the existence of the State of Israel?

Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy reflect on their experience at the recent Recharging Reform Judaism conference, revealing the internal clashes between progressive ideals and core Jewish principles. From tensions over anti-Zionist rabbis in the pulpit to the generational divide in Jewish safety and memory, the conversation exposes both vulnerability and vitality within the Reform movement today. You'll hear candid perspectives on the responsibilities of seminaries, the boundaries of Jewish leadership, and why these debates matter for the future of Jewish communities everywhere.

Episode Overview

00:00 — Intro: Jewish Life, Leadership, and Meaning00:20 — The Conference Question: Zionism and Rabbinic Ordination01:46 — Personal Values at Odds: Love for Israel and Liberalism02:50 — Should All Viewpoints Be Welcomed in Seminary?04:20 — Seminary Graduates as Communal Leaders — Risks and Concerns06:21 — Reform Judaism Principles and the Litmus Test Debate09:23 — Troubling Stories from Students in Israel10:04 — Crossing Boundaries — When Disagreement Becomes Disrespect11:39 — Praising Authentic Leadership and Respectful Discourse13:31 — Tension Between Seminary as Yeshiva vs. Graduate School15:11 — Israeli and American Program Differences17:24 — Roots, Privilege, and the Meaning of Being Jewish19:13 — HUC’s Position and the Challenge of Hiring21:13 — Competition Among Seminaries and Community Trends22:59 — Clergy Influence on Congregational Direction24:37 — Chicken-and-Egg: Institutions vs. Rabbis Shaping the Future26:20 — Generational Shifts After October 7th27:05 — Analogy: Why HUC Is No Longer “Costco” for Reform Rabbis28:14 — Boundaries, Liberalism, and the Anxiety of Jewish Identity30:09 — Betrayal and Defining Reform Judaism32:25 — Early Encounters with Anti-Zionist Discourse33:22 — Lack of Humility and Seeking a Platform, Not Learning35:01 — Are Students Exposed to True Viewpoint Diversity?38:14 — Deep Fractures — Are We Even the Same People?40:00 — Why the Reform Movement’s Fate Might Not Matter to All41:44 — Jewish Safety, Privilege, and the Legacy of Israel41:56 — Hope for Enhanced Viewpoint Diversity at HUC43:11 — Closing and Where to Find More

What if the real threat to Israel's future isn’t from its enemies—but from within?

This week on "In Such a Time," Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Landi confront the uncomfortable truth about internal divisions and radicalization shaping Israeli society—at the very moment when unity is needed most.

Against the backdrop of Passover and the pressing headlines from Israel—including the controversial new death penalty law for Palestinian terrorists and the rising influence of the religious right—they ask what it will take for Israel to safeguard its democratic values and Jewish soul.

Key highlights include:

• Candid reflections on Passover spent away from home and how core messages of freedom and family resonate in turbulent times.
• Honest, often emotional discussion of recent Israeli legislation, its implications for democracy, human rights, and the shifting role of religion in the state.
• Stories from Jewish tradition—like the destructive power of internal hatred—and how they parallel today’s events.
• Real talk on the next Israeli elections, the policies shaping the country, and what the future may actually hold for Israelis and Jews everywhere.

Tune in for a powerful, sometimes uncomfortable, but ultimately hopeful conversation about the crossroads Israel and world Jewry now face.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Passover check-in, rabbinic reflections, and Seder experiences00:35 News from Israel: Western Wall, death penalty law, and government divisions02:54 Historical parallels: Jewish fracture and lessons from the Temple’s destruction04:07 Israel as a democratic vs. theocratic state and new legislative challenges07:36 Political context: Budget, upcoming elections, and political grandstanding10:57 The logic and controversy of the new death penalty law12:11 Jewish perspectives on capital punishment and Torah values14:15 Deterring terrorism versus upholding Jewish ethics18:57 Equal justice under law and uneven applications—reflections from the Reform movement26:13 The dynamics within Israel’s coalition and the use of legislation for political gain31:42 The struggle to balance Israel’s democratic and Jewish identities33:40 Growing religious influence in state life: civil marriage, rabbinic courts, and women’s rights37:26 American Jewish misunderstandings of Israeli politics and Netanyahu’s legacy41:12 Campaigns for change: Israeli election dynamics and the yearning for normalcy43:37 The eternal Jewish struggle for unity, freedom, and “internal rebuilding”46:37 Closing blessings for redemption and hope for Israel and world Jewry

What if the "right" way to host a Passover Seder is to throw out the rulebook—and even make your own rules?

This episode, Rabbis Jonathan Jaffe and Leora Londy share why the most meaningful Seders are often the least traditional, revealing that authenticity and engagement matter far more than technical perfection. From supermarket nightmares and marshmallow rewards for questions, to deep dives on memory, identity, and the beauty of spiritual spring cleaning, this episode is an invitation to reclaim Passover as an experiment in radical Jewish learning, family, and freedom.

Key highlights include:

• Why Passover makes Judaism a home-based tradition, not just a synagogue affair
• The power of making space for every kind of child—and adult—at the Seder table
• Honest anecdotes about Seder flops, spiritual cleansing, and navigating community needs
• Breaking down myths about Passover food and rituals (yes, you might be free to eat rice!)
• How finding meaning—not just following rules—keeps Judaism vibrant for future generations

Timestamped Overview:

[00:00] Passover memories, Seder traditions, and home preparations

[08:01] Why Passover is rooted in the home—not the synagogue

[12:13] Storytelling, memory, and the pedagogical genius of the Seder

[17:08] Adapting the Seder for your guests: from kid-friendly props to deep interfaith dialogue

[19:33] Making Seders authentic, meaningful, and judgment-free

[23:12] The metaphor of Egypt, freedom, and the courage to leave what’s comfortable

[27:05] Personal Seder stories—from makeshift gatherings to lavish (and awkward) affairs

[29:33] Embracing imperfection: four children, creative Seders, and leading with curiosity

[34:10] Jewish continuity, pandemic Seders, and singing together under lockdown

[36:07] Passover food traditions, kitniyot debates, and spiritual spring cleaning

[42:01] Blessings for a sweet, free, and meaningful Pesach

Could loving your favorite band put your safety—or your conscience—at risk?

This episode of "In Such a Time" confronts a dilemma that many are now quietly struggling with: What should you do when beloved artists publicly express harshly critical or anti-Semitic views? The conversation focuses on the personal and communal challenges of reconciling artistic appreciation with ethical boundaries, especially when those boundaries hit close to home.

A key theme that emerged was the pain of "breaking up" with once-cherished music and art due to the artist’s public stance and how that sense of loss is a form of grief. The discussion explored the complexity of separating art from the artist, delving into whether certain lines—like singling out Israel or perpetuating dangerous tropes—should be crossed, and if so, how to respond.

Several points were raised, including real-life anecdotes about concerts, the influence of artists on public opinion, the pressures facing Jewish families and communities, and the difference between supporting artists with controversial pasts and those who currently foment hatred. The episode ultimately calls for more nuanced conversations and challenges listeners to think deeply about their own values and choices in this polarized time.

Timestamped Overview

[00:00:00] Welcoming listeners and introducing the episode’s core dilemma[00:01:10] Personal struggles with separating music from artist statements[00:03:19] Navigating Jewish identity in spaces where Israel is criticized[00:05:13] The emotional toll of losing beloved artists to divisive rhetoric[00:10:24] Separating art from artist—where do we draw the line?[00:13:20] The stakes of hate speech versus other types of bad behavior[00:19:06] Weighing collective versus individual harm[00:22:40] The call for real dialogue versus sloganeering[00:24:43] Do artists have a responsibility to avoid wedge issues?[00:28:03] Public figures singling out Israel compared to other global offenses[00:32:38] Practical advice—how do we handle music we love but now question?[00:40:07] The fracturing of bands and communities over political divides[00:41:00] Parting thoughts: keeping the conversation going

What if you could only keep five Jewish holidays for the rest of your life? Which would you choose—and which would you let go?

In this fun, live episode recorded on Erev Shavuot, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy go head-to-head in a lively "draft pick" of annual Jewish holidays, revealing surprising priorities, personal stories, and the deeper values these days embody. From the foundational power of Passover, to the drama and debate over the best (and worst) festival foods, to the meaning behind both universally beloved and lesser-known holidays, this episode is full of insight, humor, and communal reflection. Plus: listeners get involved with live audience voting on the ultimate top 10 list—sparking debates about tradition, renewal, and the evolving Jewish calendar.

Episode Overview:

00:00 Welcome and episode introduction00:21 Setting up the live holiday draft and ground rules01:08 How the draft works: format confusion and competitive spirit04:08 First pick: Rabbi Leora Londy chooses Passover and explains its generational meaning06:03 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe reacts and shares the cultural richness of Passover07:01 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe drafts Rosh Hashanah, describing its sensory joys10:04 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe picks Sukkot: impermanence, outdoor celebration, and family12:51 Rabbi Leora Londy drafts Shavuot and why revelation and learning matter15:25 Shavuot’s food debate and differences between Israel and Diaspora17:51 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe drafts Hanukkah: joy, food, and resilience20:57 Rabbi Leora Londy picks Tisha B'Av: loss, destruction, and renewal23:00 Sparring over mourning days and fasting25:55 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe drafts Purim: strength, assimilation, and trauma28:02 Discussion: Purim memories, struggles, and Jewish identity29:30 Rabbi Leora Londy drafts Yom Kippur: hope, atonement, and community33:01 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe drafts Simchat Torah: finishing and restarting the Torah cycle35:06 Rabbi Leora Londy closes with Yom Ha'atzmaut: Zionism, gratitude, and complexity38:31 Final reflections and the meaning behind Israel’s celebrations39:36 Outro and how to connect with the hosts and congregation

What if the stories shaping global perceptions of Israel—and the Jewish people—weren't as clear-cut as headlines suggest?

This episode dives headfirst into the New York Times op-ed by Nicholas Kristof, a piece that's sent shockwaves throughout the Jewish American community by alleging systematic abuses by Israeli soldiers. But hosts Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy refuse to settle for cynicism or despair—instead, they grapple with uncomfortable truths, media responsibility, and the moral backbone of Israel itself.

From gut-wrenching reports of violence and human rights abuses on all sides, to the dangers of moral absolutism and anti-Semitism, this episode doesn't shy away from controversy. Yet, at its heart, it calls for integrity, empathy, and real dialogue—reminding us that facing hard questions is the path to a better, more just community and world. Listen in for an urgent conversation about truth, accountability, and the hope for a more humane future.

Timestamped Overview

[00:00] Episode introduction and Kristof’s controversial article[00:51] Rabbi Leora Londy reacts: emotional turmoil and moral disappointment[02:55] Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe on community divisions and credibility of media[05:55] The importance—and challenge—of maintaining a moral compass amid conflict[08:55] Grappling with Israeli societal tensions post-October 7th[10:45] Debating what “systematic” really means and double standards in global scrutiny[14:20] Checks, balances, and the dangers of unchecked power in Israel[18:07] Democracy, protest, and the realities of Israeli society[20:11] Violence, changing cultural norms, and who serves in the IDF[22:53] Critiquing Kristof: sources, timing, and journalistic responsibility[26:33] The impact of allegations, storytelling, and bearing witness[31:34] Moral inversion, media narratives, and the perils of antisemitism[40:17] The missed opportunity for Israeli self-reflection and accountability[42:42] Ending with hope: forging dialogue and seeing the humanity in the other[43:38] Outro and how to connect with the community

What if being a rabbi is a little like being a professional wrestler—so caught up in your public Persona that you risk losing sight of your authentic self?

Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy wrestle (sometimes literally!) with the surprising parallels between the performative world of Hulk Hogan and the lives of clergy.

From Netflix’s revealing Hulk Hogan series to stories from the bema, they explore how leaders juggle authenticity, authority, and public expectation while resisting the pitfalls of Persona-overload. Highlights include honest talk about boundaries, family life, Jewish texts on roles and authenticity, and how to stay grounded when the world puts you on a pedestal.

Curious whether your rabbi is more Moses or more Hulk Hogan? Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at leadership, vulnerability, and what it really takes to hold sacred space for others—and yourself.

Timstamped Overview

[00:00] Welcome & the Netflix Hulk Hogan connection[02:17] Persona vs. self: clergy, wrestlers, and losing yourself[06:32] Navigating rabbinic boundaries and authenticity[11:15] Jewish texts: Esther, Hadassah, and priestly role-playing[14:38] What happens when the rabbi steps down? Identity & authority[18:00] Imposter syndrome and the cost of being “on”[29:36] Family life, kids, and living in the synagogue spotlight[37:26] The quest for authenticity in a performative world[41:08] Stay grounded: funny stories, humility, and final reflections[42:58] Outro & where to connect

Did you know there’s a major Jewish holiday that many people barely recognize—or even know exists?

In this upbeat and eye-opening episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy uncover the mystery behind Shavuot’s “disappearing act” in much of the diaspora, despite its deep spiritual, historical, and culinary significance. The episode journeys between vibrant Shavuot celebrations in Israel—complete with all-night learning, white clothes, and cheese platters—to the challenges faced in North American communities where Shavuot is often overlooked or misunderstood.

Highlights include surprising cultural differences, creative ways to revive Shavuot (think: wine and cheese festivals, community TED talks, and baby blessings), and thoughtful reflections on reimagining tradition for today’s Jewish families. Whether you’re searching for meaningful rituals, ways to connect, or just want to savor some Jewish wisdom, this “triage team” episode is packed with inspiration, humor, and practical ideas to put Shavuot back on your calendar.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Welcome & setup: the mystery of Shavuot’s decline01:20 What is Shavuot: origins, meaning, and traditions03:33 Israel’s Shavuot renaissance: dairy, study, and fashion06:43 Why is Shavuot overlooked in the diaspora?09:07 The missing ritual “hook” of Shavuot11:23 Ritual contrasts: Israeli and diaspora experiences13:04 The “crisis” of forgotten holidays and possible solutions15:13 Reform Judaism’s attempts: confirmation & Tikkun Leil17:09 Creative communal Shavuot celebrations19:05 Personal and communal impact of shifting Jewish calendars22:19 Practical suggestions: wine & cheese, cultural events25:01 Interfaith lessons and the Book of Ruth28:10 Bikurim and celebrating new life29:39 Communicating and reclaiming Shavuot32:57 Integrating tradition, text, and contemporary relevance35:31 Theological challenges of Shavuot’s Torah reading39:01 The cycle of brokenness and renewal40:26 Closing suggestions for celebrating Shavuot now42:21 Outro and ways to connect

What if your synagogue doesn’t actually reflect your rabbi’s own Jewish practice?

In this refreshingly honest episode, Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe and Rabbi Leora Londy open the door on a rarely-discussed truth: the way clergy personally observe and the standards they set for their congregations don’t always align. With bold candor, they explore the inner “push and pull” of balancing personal standards, communal expectations, tradition, and innovation.

Listen in as they debate hot-button questions like: Should congregations water down traditions to accommodate everyone, or raise the bar for engagement? Is it ever appropriate to host a Passover Seder before the holiday itself just to help congregants connect—or is that breaking too far from sacred time? When do phones in the sanctuary break spiritual moments, and when are they tools of Jewish memory? The rabbis reveal their own wrestling, share stories from their families and community, and invite listeners to weigh in on the ever-evolving identity of modern American Judaism.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro and today’s big question: Standards vs. meeting people where they are

01:26 Personal rabbinic standards vs. community norms

03:35 The clergy “dance”: Observance at home vs. for the congregation

04:12 Duty and privilege of serving the greater Jewish community

05:18 Should synagogues set higher standards than members?

06:00 Kashrut case study: Raising (or enforcing) standards in the community

07:01 Passover dilemma: Model Seder before the holiday?

10:08 Sacred time, the calendar, and “checking the box” on holidays

13:07 Clashing values: Tradition, community, and religious timing

19:08 Phones, photos & spiritual boundaries: Shabbat services as school assembly?

22:35 Chuck E. Cheese Judaism? When worship feels more like background music

27:11 Balancing spiritual authority with joyful community

32:18 Are cultural Jewish events enough—or do we need deeper connection?

34:48 The special sauce: Integrating joy, community, and tradition

35:40 Outro and call for listener feedback

What if the birth of modern Israel wasn’t just a miracle of survival—but the world’s greatest social experiment, blending ancient prophecy, multiculturalism, and the struggles of democracy?

This episode of In Such a Time dives into the rarely-discussed tensions and triumphs at the heart of Israel’s identity, anchored by its Declaration of Independence.

Join Rabbi Leora Londy and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe as they mark Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron, and Yom Haatzmaut with a candid, heartfelt conversation about the values, challenges, and living realities behind Israel’s founding document. From classroom anecdotes and playground cannons to moments of unity in the Knesset and shared struggles across religious divides, the rabbis explore whether today’s Israel is living up to the hopes of its founders—or forging something even more unexpected. Revealing and hopeful, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand the soul-searching at the center of Israeli and Jewish life today.

Timestamped Overview:

00:00 Welcome and setting the scene: Yom Hashoah, Yom Hazikaron, Yom Haatzmaut

01:05 Rabbi Leora Londy on the emotional power of Israel’s "High Holidays"

03:24 Does modern Israel match its founding vision?

03:56 Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe on the Declaration of Independence as living constitution

06:45 Reflections on accountability, justice, and prophetic ideals

07:16 The Declaration’s call for equality and multiculturalism

10:04 Surprising examples of Arab and Jewish coexistence in education and government

13:06 Dysfunction and diversity in the Knesset

13:42 The bravery of Israel’s founders: history and inspiration

16:42 Memories of resilience, sacrifice, and building a nation

20:02 Comparing Israel’s revival with other native sovereignty movements

22:59 Wrestling with secular, religious, and demographic changes

25:36 Segregation and evolving educational divides

28:00 The challenges of internal division and hope for unity

30:52 Glass half full: Everyday multiculturalism and living the tapestry

35:58 Stories of real-life coexistence in schools, hospitals, and delivery rooms

42:52 The prayer and hope for Israel’s future

What if religious passion could literally get you killed?

This week, the “In Such a Time” podcast dives into the chilling story of Nadav and Avihu from Parashat Shmini, revealing how the boundaries between deep devotion and dangerous zealotry can blur—sometimes with devastating consequences. Rabbis Jaffe and Londy share personal reflections on religious extremism, examine how faith communities define (and redefine) zealotry, and explore the provocative question: Are liberal Jewish practices themselves a form of extremism?

Don't miss their thoughtful discussion on the power and peril of authentic religious expression, from the Kotel controversies in Israel to the radical roots of Judaism, and the unexpected lessons Chabad offers to those seeking balance. Expect insights on the golden mean, messianic fervor, and why "staying in your lane" isn't always as simple as it sounds.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Introduction to Parashat Shmini and the story of Nadav and Avihu

01:47 Tragic consequences of religious passion and boundaries

04:24 When does religious observance become dangerous?

06:31 The dangers of certainty and zealotry in belief

09:06 Fundamentalism as structure and its broader effects

12:32 Personal stories of being labeled an extremist in Israel

15:34 Reform Judaism and questions of extremism

17:12 Extreme moves by the Reform movement

19:00 Textual return: Korbanot, closeness, and boundaries

21:10 Extremism as intimacy and the pursuit of truth

22:58 Comparing Nadav and Avihu to Elijah and absolute truth

28:03 Zealotry in Jewish and other religious texts

30:17 Cults, sects, and the roots of organized religion

33:59 Messianic fervor, hope, and religious extremism

37:17 Chabad as a model for authenticity without judgment

40:24 Authenticity, hospitality, and nuance

41:26 Dialectic between authenticity and inclusivity

42:02 The golden mean and its limits

43:20 Wrap-up and invitation to continue the conversation