Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast JM in the AM: Interviews

Nachum Segal welcomed Rabbi David Stav, Chief Rabbi of the city of Shoham & Chairman of Tzohar, to this morning's JM in the AM to discuss a number of timely topics including Rosh Hashanah, the upcoming election in Israel, challenges facing IDF reservists and their families, the new Kiddush Times Magazine and more. Shanah Tovah!

Nachum Segal hosted David Mandel, CEO of Ohel Children's Home and Family Services, during this morning's JM in the AM to discuss the expansion of OHEL's services, including the opening of a new outpatient center in Queens and the recent acquisition of an additional campground to help facilitate Camp Kaylie's continuing growth.

Nachum hosted The Honorable Mayor Michael Wildes of Englewood, NJ, live in the studio for an Englewood update, to exchange New Year's greetings and much more. Mayor Wildes spoke about engaging with diverse communities, managing immigration challenges, and promoting unity. He shared insights on building relationships, addressing tensions, and advocating for constituents. The Mayor recounted anecdotes of bridging cultural divides and navigating complex issues with empathy and diplomacy.

In anticipation of the upcoming high holidays, Nachum Segal interviewed Rabbi Yehoshua Frankenhuis about his latest ArtScroll release, "Inspired by Time: The Transformative Journey from Elul to Simchas Torah."

Always remember to use promo code RADIO when shopping at ArtScroll.com

From ArtScroll.com:

Experience the Yamim Noraim not as a series of individual days, but as one continuous process of growth — a journey that begins with Rosh Chodesh Elul and will lead you to a deeper, lasting connection with Hashem.

Through memorable meshalim, moving stories, and insightful Torah perspectives, each stage of the journey is explained with clarity and simplicity, offering practical guidance for transforming inspiration into lasting growth.

As the journey unfolds, one inspiring moment at a time, readers are invited to make meaningful changes, take on practical kabbalos, and discover that Hashem desires their return more than they could ever imagine.

Experience the Yamim Noraim with purpose and clarity like never before, and emerge from Simchas Torah with a deep and enduring connection to Hashem.

Nachum hosted Elie Y. Katz, Deputy Mayor of Teaneck, NJ, live in the studio during this morning's program for a lengthy Teaneck update and to exchange New Year's greetings. Elie shared insights on community initiatives, upcoming events, and his decision not to run for council after 30 years of service. He also highlightsed the importance of giving back and unity within the community.

Nachum Segal and Malcolm Hoenlein discussed Israeli politics, U.S.-Iran relations, and the impact of upcoming elections in both countries. Key insights included the tension in U.S.-Israel relations, economic growth in Israel under Netanyahu's leadership, and the potential outcomes of the elections. They also touched on the divisive issues surrounding Netanyahu and the October 27th timeline controversy.

Nachum welcomed Cantor Benny Rogosnitzky of the Park East Synagogue to the program to preview what promises to be another powerful first night of Selichot this Motzei Shabbat. They also discussed the legacy of Charlie Bernhaut, leading High Holiday prayers and more.

Nachum welcomed Liora Tedgi to the program to discuss Ohr Meir & Bracha and their vital work of helping hundreds of families impacted by terror celebrate Rosh Hashanah and Succot with dignity.

From the OMB site:

Our mission is to provide as many families affected by terror as possible with fresh, nourishing food so they can observe Shabbat, the week, and the holidays with dignity.
Your donation enables us to provide immediate support for many crucial needs, including:
baby food supplies, clothing donations, school supplies, psychological support, and emergency assistance for those in need.
Your meaningful and impactful act of kindness is just one click away: Ohr Meir & Bracha

Nachum welcomed Canadian singer-songwriter Oliver Borr to this morning's program to debut his single "Modeh Ani." They discussed and played the song, they talked about Oliver's background, growing up in the Jewish community in Hamilton, Ontario, and Oliver's other single "Gam Zu Letova."

Nachum welcomed Rachel Krich, Executive Director of Ezrah, and Ezrah board member Dani Secemski to the studio during this morning's program to discuss the organization and "It’s Time to Care for Our Community," Ezrah's fundraiser going on now. They focused on the organization's evolution, community partnerships, and financial assistance programs. They highlighted the importance of normalizing help-seeking behavior and the significant impact of the campaign on Bergen County families in need.

Nachum Segal and Malcolm Hoenlein, representative of Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, discussed Israeli election dynamics, security threats, and international relations. Key insights include challenges faced by Prime Minister Netanyahu in forming a coalition, concerns over Iranian threats, and the impact of U.S. policies on global security. Notable stories include discussions on potential joint government arrangements and the role of influential nations like China in international affairs.

Nachum Segal was joined by Chad Martin, Director of the Northeast Region (USA) for the Israel Ministry of Tourism, for a wide-ranging discussion about tourism in Israel. The two explored a number of important issues affecting travel to Israel, including rising airfare costs and hotel accommodations, the current tourism landscape, and the ongoing efforts to encourage visitors to experience all that Israel has to offer:

In honor of Yankie Meyer's yahrtzeit, Nachum hosted Meir Weill, President of Misaskim, to discuss the new documentary about Yankie, our Elul Chesed Campaign in honor of Yankie and the Misaskim crowdfunding campaign that is going on now.

Nachum hosted singer-songwriter Chayim Kessler a.k.a. Zaide Chayim for the debut of his new single about unity, "Forever We Will Know." They discussed Chaim's journey from the entertainment industry to Orthodox Judaism, the inspiration behind the new song and the symbolism of the shofar. Chaim shared a notable story of how his music promoted unity within his community and reflectd on the power of music to bring people together.

Nachum interviewed Dr. Jeff Lichtman, Director of Graduate Jewish Education & Special Education at the Touro University Graduate School of Education as well as the MS program in Holocaust, Genocide and Tolerance Education, about careers in education and the programs he’s running at Touro.

They covered several important topics including:

• Growth in the field of Jewish education today.

• Opportunities for people interested in pursuing these careers.

• Touro's graduate program in Jewish Childhood Education & Special Ed.

• How Touro helps people advance their careers and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their students.

• How to teach educators to teach about the Holocaust to today’s youth.

• How to teach young children about the Holocaust.

Nachum checked in with Rabbi Larry Rothwachs as he and his family prepare to embark on their Aliyah journey. They reflected on the importance of returning to Israel, building community, and the challenges and rewards of making Aliyah. The Rothwachs's commitment to this move serves as an inspiration for others to consider the possibility of relocating to Israel. Wishing the Rothwachs family and all of this summer's Olim an easy and successful Aliyah.

Nachum hosted Rabbi Shraga Freedman to explore his new ArtScroll release "Living Kiddush Hashem - From The Inside Out: Sanctifying Hashem in everything we do."

Always remember to use promo code RADIO when shopping at ArtScroll.com.

From ArtScroll.com:

What does it mean to live a life of kiddush Hashem?

Many of us think of Kiddush Hashem as something extraordinary—a rare act of courage or self-sacrifice. But Rabbi Shraga Freedman reveals a far more profound truth: the greatest Kiddush Hashem is often created in the ordinary moments of everyday life. More than simply making a Kiddush Hashem, this book teaches us how to become a Kiddush Hashem—a person whose every interaction naturally reflects the beauty of Torah.

Drawing on Torah sources, profound insights, and dozens of unforgettable true stories, he shows how every conversation, every interaction, every act of kindness, integrity, and dignity can bring honor to Hashem and awaken the spark of holiness in others.

Among the remarkable stories you'll encounter:

• The Falafel That Stopped a Protest: A chance conversation on a train transforms two secular Israelis who had been on their way to demonstrate against religious Jews.

• The Smile That Broke Generations of Hate: Raised to hate Jews, a young Syrian refugee encounters nothing more dramatic than a Jewish shopkeeper's smile—and it changes the course of her life.

• A Quiet Night, a Lasting Legacy:  Why was Rav Mordechai Schwab quietly picking up litter in a non-Jewish cemetery in the middle of the night? The answer became a lifelong lesson in honoring Hashem.

Every chapter follows a unique format that makes these timeless ideas practical and memorable: a compelling real-life story, an illuminating "Delving Deeper" discussion, memorable pull quotes, concise "Core Insights," and practical guidance for bringing these lessons into daily life.

Warm, inspiring, and deeply relevant, Living Kiddush Hashem: From the Inside Out will forever change the way you think about kiddush Hashem.

Discover how awakening your own neshamah can transform ordinary moments into an extraordinary life of Kiddush Hashem—from the inside out.

Nachum interviewed Marc Rosenberg, VP of Diaspora Partnerships at Nefesh B'Nefesh, about the launch of Israel's first National Educators Aliyah Program, an initiative being put forth by NBN in partnership with Israel's Ministry of Education and Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. They talked about Israel's teacher shortage, the challenges educators face in integrating into the Israeli school system, NBN's push to streamline the process for educators making Aliyah and the impact of Olim teachers on Israel's education quality.

Email for more info: morimolim@nbn.org.il

Nachum interviewed Rav Yehoshua Pfeffer, community Rabbi in Jerusalem; head of Iyun Institute and Editor-in-Chief of "Tzarich Iyun," about "Hatzibur-Haharedi/The Charedi Community," the new Israeli political party he is involved in whose aim is to bring shalom between different communities and to give a voice to the new generation of the Charedi community.

Nachum spoke with Rabbi Ari Katz, Director of PR for the Sderot Hesder Yeshiva, about the yeshiva and their on-going Simchat Torah campaign. They focused on the launch of an American program, general yeshiva expansion, the community impact of the yeshiva and more.

Nachum was joined by Malcolm Honlein from the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations to discuss Israel's relief missions to South America, changing diplomatic relations, and implications of the 'Isaac Accords' in the region. Insights into geopolitical shifts in South America and the significance for Israel and the Western Hemisphere.

Nachum hosted Nader Bolour to preview tomorrow's Rosh Chodesh Elul Netz Minyan featuring music by Shtendig, a siyum and sumptuous breakfast. Chodesh tov!

Nachum welcomed new oleh Jordan Karmily to this morning's JM in the AM to interview him about his family and 6 other Persian families, all from the Great Neck community, who made Aliyah TOGETHER this week. They discussed the decision-making process, logistical challenges, and impact on their community. Jordan emphasized the importance of group Aliyah and the positive impact on children raised in Israel.

Nachum was joined by Rabbi Josh Fass, Director and co-founder of Nefesh B'Nefesh, to discuss and wish mazal tov on the 100,000th NBN facilitated Aliyah which took place this week. Key topics included the impact of North American Aliyah, community building, and Nefesh B'Nefesh's role in advising the Israeli government. Insights into the ripple effect of Aliyah and the future goals of the organization were highlighted.

Nachum spoke with Arnold Roth, father of 2001 Sbarro bombing victim Malki Roth, about Malki, Keren Malki/The Malki Foundation, efforts to extradite terror mastermind Ahlam Tamimi from Jordan and more.

Nachum Segal and Malcolm Hoenlein, from the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, discussed various topics, including the controversy over filing complaints against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Insights include the potential ramifications of such actions and the implications of a new defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. Notable stories touched upon include the impact of American midterms on foreign relations and the role of organizations like AIPAC in political races.

Nachum Segal hosted Rav Duvid and Rabbanit Mechi Fendel on this morning's JM in the AM to discuss the "Join the Dance," Simchat Torah in Sderot Campaign and thus officially kick off our JM in the AM Elul Chesed Campaign 5786. For over 30 years, Yeshivat Hesder Sderot stands as a fortress of Torah and strength on Israel’s frontlines.
When you Join the Dance, a direct response to October 7th, you transform tragedy into a legacy of light.
Visit the campaign: https://causematch.com/join-the-dance

Nachum Segal kicked off the 2026 JM in the AM Yankie Meyer Elul Chesed Campaign on today's JM in the AM. This biannual campaign, in memory of Misaskim creator and king of chesed Reb Yankie Meyer, Yaakov Michoel ben ha"Chaveir Yisroel, takes place in Elul and Nisan and aims to encourage and foster an increase in chesed/loving kindness leading up to the High Holidays and Pesach.

Below are links to various initiatives and causes that Nachum has featured on JM in the AM. We encourage you to visit the sites and help support their important work. We also encourage everyone to come up with their own ideas of increasing chesed as we prepare for the High Holidays.

• Click Here to visit Misaskim

• Click Here to join Ohr Meir & Bracha in their mission to help families impacted by terror who are in need for the holidays.

• Click Here to help our friends at Ezrah reach their campaign goal and be able to continue their amazing work.

• Click Here to visit Keren Malki/The Malki Foundation, empowering families of children with severe disabilities in Israel to keep the children within their family home instead of living in institutions.

• Click Here to take part in the Join the Dance, Simchat Torah in Sderot, Campaign.

• Click Here to help support Mattes Weingast and the Weingast family Home Accessibility Fund.

Nachum welcomed singer-songwriter Shmueli Ungar to this morning's JM in the AM for the official JM in the AM debut of his latest single "Horova!" and for a comprehensive discussion about Shmueli's music, the importance of daily Torah study, the current wedding season, Shmueli's hassidic background and more.

Nachum Segal and Malcolm Hoenlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations discussed Israel's defense strategies, international relationships, and challenges. Key insights include Israel's focus on military independence, cooperative relations with the U.S., and complexities in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Notable topics include Saudi normalization, Iran's nuclear threat, and the evolving landscape in Syria and Lebanon.

Nachum was joined by the King of Shlock, Lenny Solomon, on this morning's program for a great discussion about Shlock Rock and Lenny's upcoming visit to the US.

Nachum was joined by Ariel Kahana, Editor at JNS, on this morning's JM in the AM to discuss Prime Minister Netanyahu's visit to the US, the US vs. Iran, Israel's perspective on the upcoming midterm elections in the US and more.

Nachum interviewed cookbook author Danielle Renov about the newest installment of her Micro-Peas series by ArtScroll: "Micro Peas - The Mini Cookbook Series: Quick Cooking Meat."

Always remember to use promo code RADIO when shopping at ArtScroll.com

From ArtScroll.com:

From master chef, bestselling author, and beloved Instagram personality Danielle Renov comes the newest installment in her wildly popular MICRO PEAS SERIES.

This fourth volume is a tiny kosher cookbook dedicated entirely to the bold, satisfying world of meat. Danielle teams up with co-author Estee Chait to bring you a collection that’s as practical as it is craveable.

Packed with 55+ succulent recipes, this micro book covers everything from quick weeknight dinners to Friday night favorites, and from Yom Tov showstoppers to crowd-pleasing party food. Inside this tiny-but-mighty volume you’ll find:

• Juicy steaks and flavorful ground beef dishes

• Next-level sandwiches

• 30+ gluten-free recipes

But this book goes beyond recipes. Danielle and Estee also include a clear, beautifully organized guide to beef, helping you navigate the meat counter with confidence. Learn the differences between cuts, the best cooking methods, and the kashrus considerations that shape what we buy and cook.

Like every Micro Peas title, the instructions are clear, direct, and thoroughly tested — real food for real kitchens.

Small in size, huge in flavor, and packed with practical know-how, MICRO PEAS – Meats will have you mastering meat in no time!

Nachum Segal welcomed political analyst & TV/radio host Jake Novak back to JM in the AM to discuss a number of timely political topics including Prime Minister Netanyahu's current visit to the US/meeting with President Trump, US-Iran activity, Mayor Mamdani/the political climate in NYC and more.

Nachum welcomed Rabbi Goldwasser to this morning's Tish B'Av program for a live Kinot service. They presented several of the Kinot discussing lessons from Jewish history, the importance of self-improvement, and the power of collective prayer. Key insights included the significance of tears in prayer, the need for introspection and repentance, and the impact of self-sacrifice on the Jewish community. Wishing everyone an easy fast.

Nachum interviewed Dr. Julie Golding, Holocaust educator and Director of the MS program in Holocaust, Genocide and Tolerance Education at Touro University, about Holocaust education and her recently-published book "Unseen Scars: Vicarious Trauma at Holocaust Museums, Exhibitions, and Memorial Sites." They talked about exploring vicarious resilience and the emotional impact of Holocaust history on educators and learners. Dr. Golding shared research on museum visitors' experiences and the importance of teaching about the Holocaust in today's context.

From Amazon:

Holocaust educators and museums face an urgent challenge: preserving the memory of genocide while protecting the psychological well-being of those who learn about it. How can they teach about historical atrocities without traumatizing the very students they aim to educate?
This groundbreaking book examines the complex intersection of trauma, memory, and education in Holocaust learning environments. Drawing on research in trauma studies, educational psychology, and museum visitor experiences, it reveals how encounters with difficult histories can either create meaningful understanding or cause psychological harm.
Julie Golding introduces practical frameworks for educators regarding trauma-informed teaching and explores concepts like vicarious resilience as alternatives to vicarious trauma. Through analysis of survivor testimony, museum exhibitions, and empirical research on student responses, the book provides concrete tools for navigating the delicate balance between historical truth and emotional safety.
Essential for educators, museum professionals, and anyone involved in teaching difficult histories, Unseen Scars: Vicarious Trauma at Holocaust Museums, Exhibitions and Memorial Sites offers both theoretical insights and practical strategies for honoring the past while protecting those who encounter it. It demonstrates how we can learn from humanity's darkest chapters without being overwhelmed by them.

Nachum was joined in the studio by Mrs. Sylvia Fallas, a history teacher at Yeshiva of Flatbush, to discuss her role in the recent Nefesh B'Nefesh Zionist Education Initiative (ZEI) fellowship in Israel. Sylvia highlighted the importance of incorporating Israeli history and culture into the curriculum, utilizing hands-on experiences like cooking to make the material more engaging. With a focus on enhancing students' connection to their heritage and identity, Sylvia shared insights from the fellowship and how it will impact her teaching moving forward.

Nachum interviewed Charlie Breda about Project Tzitzis, "Chibur HaChaim," a sefer he co-wrote with fellow Frisch graduate Nathan Neufeld and more.

From Amazon:

Two Friends. One Chavrusa. One Sefer. A complete cycle of divrei Torah on every parsha in the Chumash, drawn from voices across all of Klal Yisrael and written by two friends over two years of learning together. The goal is simple. Bring every Yid a little closer to Torah, a little closer to Hashem, and a little more light each week.

Chibur HaChaim, the Connection of Life, was written by Charlie and Nathan as they prepared to head to Eretz Yisrael for their year in Yeshiva. They wanted their families, friends, and Rebbeim to keep hearing from them at the Shabbos table while they were away. What started as a way to have something to share each week became this sefer. There is no agenda inside. Only Torah, and a sincere hope that every reader walks away with a sweeter Shabbos and a warmer heart.

Nachum Segal continued his annual 3rd of Av tradition of presenting his father, Rabbi Zev Segal's, zt"l, eulogy for the Lubavitcher Rebbe, zt"l, that was originally presented on the Rebbe's shloshim in 1994.

Nachum Segal and Malcolm Hoenlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations discussed US-Israel relations, the impact of recent votes on security assistance to Israel, and the challenges faced by both countries. Key insights include the importance of bipartisan support for Israel, the role of intimidation in political decisions, and the need to address anti-Semitism and extremism.

Nachum was joined by Elan Kornblum of "Great Kosher Restaurants" to discuss kosher dining during The Nine Days. They talked about some classic restaurants that continue to stand the test of time, some of the challenges and benefits of a limited Nine Days menu and how the NBA Finals benefited kosher restaurants. They also went through a list of restaurants that will be serving special Nine Days menus for everyone to enjoy.

Nachum interviewed Rabbi Josh Spodek , Director of the new Nefesh B'Nefesh Zionist Education Initiative (ZEI), about the initiative and their recent fellowship in Israel. They discussed the importance of training Jewish educators to inspire the next generation of Zionist learners. The interview delved into the curriculum, fellowship program, and impact on students' understanding of Israel and Zionism. Rabbi Spodek highlighted the immersive Israel summer intensive, ongoing mentorship, and pedagogical training provided to high school educators.

Nachum interviewed Eli Drabkin, General Manager of the ArtScroll App, about ArtScroll at 50 and their incredible $50,000+ giveaway going on now. Mazal tov to ArtScroll on 50 incredible years of making Torah accessible to the entire Jewish community!

Nachum Segal welcomed Rabbi Steven Pruzansky, Israel Region Vice President of the Coalition for Jewish Values, back to JM in the AM to get his perspective on the U.S.-Iran-Israel dynamics, President Trump's decisions, Iran's military capabilities, Turkey's role, and the challenges in Israel of Haredi military service. Notable topics included internal Israeli politics and the cultural differences between the diaspora and Israel.

Nachum welcomed author Goldy Krantz to this morning's JM in the AM to discuss here latest book on Jewish dating, "Been There, Dated That."

From Amazon:

Peek into the world of Orthodox Jewish dating! Goldy Krantz’s weekly dating column isn’t like your grandmother’s advice column. Goldy writes about the highs and lows of blind “shidduch” dating in the Orthodox dating world. She publishes letters from readers that need to vent their frustrations about the dating system or need advice about a specific dating issue they’re having.

Goldy writes and responds like a good friend would. She tells it like it is. She was set up on dates for over a decade, just to find her husband had been in plain sight most of the time. She thought she’d seen and experienced it all, until she read some of the emails she received. As you read through a collection of her articles and how she connects with readers, you’ll come to understand that it doesn’t matter what age, religion, or ethnicity you are; we all share the common bond of bad dates.

What does everyone need at the end of a bad date? A good laugh! Laugh along with Goldy and her readers as they recount their bad dates or seek advice. Wouldn’t it be nice to know that others are having the same hard time as you? Goldy’s goal is to get singles out of a depressive dating funk and to be able to smile and laugh again. They should remember that God hasn’t forgotten about them, and they are one date closer to meeting their “zivug,” or soulmate.

Nachum welcomed Herzl aficionado David Matlow back to JM in the AM to discuss "#herzl100," David's social media countdown series featuring the 100 greatest items from his vast collection of Herzl memorabilia, the largest private collection in the world. Nachum and David discussed the importance of educating about Zionism, Herzl's impact on combating anti-Semitism, the value of historical artifacts and more.