Being Jewish with Jonah Platt is the hit weekly podcast that illuminates the vast, beautiful, and often unexplored tapestry of Jewish identity, through deeply honest and personal conversations with notable Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Hosted by actor & advocate Jonah Platt, a trusted expert in contemporary Jewish culture, identity, and politics, Being Jewish seeks to engage, educate, and empower listeners to take full ownership of their identities and live as their proudest, most authentic selves.
2025 Webby Honoree | Podcasts - Best Indie Podcast
2025 Wilbur Award Winner
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In this eye-opening episode of BEING JEWISH, Jonah Platt discusses the complexities of the term “antisemitism” with guest Kenny Hamilton, a music mogul and former Justin Bieber bodyguard. The conversation dives deep into Kenny's journey towards converting to Judaism, his experiences working with Bieber and Scooter Braun, and how his identity as a Black Jew shapes his perspective on the current social climate. They also reflect on the shared cultural experiences between Black and Jewish communities, and the significance of Shabbat in fostering deeper connections. Kenny emphasizes the importance of speaking up against anti-Black and anti-Jew bigotry, and fostering a community of understanding and support. Join us for an enlightening discussion on breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world.
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
00:00 Reframing Antisemitism: A Call to Action
01:40 Research Insights: The Ineffectiveness of 'Antisemitism'
05:50 Introducing Kenny Hamilton: A Unique Journey
07:15 From Radio to Bodyguard: Kenny's Career Path
08:36 Discovering Judaism: Kenny's Conversion Story
09:44 Experiencing Israel: A Life-Changing Trip
15:36 Cultural Connections: Black and Jewish Experiences
25:25 Systemic Racism and Jewish History
26:40 Jewish Contributions to Civil Rights
27:36 Personal Journey to Judaism
29:01 Conversion Process and Reflections
33:57 Challenges and Reactions
41:25 Social Media and Public Perception
46:54 Finding Joy in Jewish Traditions
The Jewish Case for Both Trump & Harris + Social Media Activist Montana Tucker
In this episode we are joined by dancer, singer, actress and social media star Montana Tucker. In this conversation with Jonah, she shares her journey from entertainer to Jewish advocate, discusses her Holocaust documentary “”, her powerful activism post-October 7th, and the importance of unity amidst rising anti-Jew hate. Montana also reflects on her upbringing in a predominantly Jewish area, her career in the entertainment industry, and her ongoing commitment to using her platform to uplift others for positive impact.
In the premiere episode of 'Being Jewish with Jonah Platt,' host Jonah Platt sits down with Hollywood actor Skylar Astin. Skylar opens up about his evolving Jewish identity, childhood experiences, and navigating the entertainment industry as a proud Jewish professional. They discuss the impact of recent events on Jewish advocacy, the challenges of anti-Jew hate, and the importance of openly celebrating Jewish culture. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about Jewish identity, representation, and resilience.
A weekly podcast that illuminates the full, beautiful, often unexplored spectrum of Jewish identity, by exploring the personal journeys of both Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Each week, actor/artist/advocate Jonah Platt will interview a celebrity figure from any number of fields—Art, Sports, Entertainment, Politics, Food, Music, Business, you name it—allowing the esteemed guest a safe space to dig deep into their own individual connection to the question, “What does it mean to be Jewish TO YOU?”
In this thought-provoking episode of "Being Jewish," Jonah Platt dives deep with Rabbi David Wolpe to explore what being Jewish means to one of Judaism’s most renowned faith leaders. From rabbinical wisdom to addressing anti-Jewish bigotry on college campuses, to October 7th, no topic goes untouched. Rabbi Wolpe weighs in on his controversial time at Harvard, his storied career as a rabbi, and his own sense of Jewish identity. Join us for an in-depth and reflective conversation just in time for the Days of Awe and Yom Kippur.
Jonah travels to Israel for the heart-wrenching anniversary of October 7th and sits down with outgoing Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum to reflect on the challenges Israel faces in its war with Iran. During this conversation, Jonah and Fleur discuss her tenure in Jerusalem’s city government, and how the coexistence that exists in the city could be a blueprint for the country’s future. Additionally, they address the shortfalls of Israel’s communication strategy and what must be done to protect the country from existential threats. From college protests to the Second Intifada to the differences between Diaspora Jews & Israeli Jews, this episode tackles a wide range of pressing topics that simply can’t be missed.
In this episode, Jonah sits down with legendary commentator, activist and community ally Van Jones to dive into the historical power and current necessity of the Black & Jewish relationship. Together, Jonah and Van discuss the historic ties between their communities, the forces that try to divide them, and how both must work together to safeguard democracy and each other. Additionally, they discuss the pending Presidential election, the power of activism, and the origin of Van’s name! An eye-opening episode full of insight, truth, and personal stories not to be missed.
The “Four C’s” of Productive Conversation + Jackie Tohn
Jonah is joined by Jackie Tohn, one of the hilarious stars of Nobody Wants This, the Jewish Netflix series people can’t stop talking about. From raising Jewish children and intermarriage to Jewish representation in Hollywood, no topic goes untouched in today’s conversation. In this one-of-a-kind episode, Jackie Tohn opens up about her family’s Holocaust roots, the Jewish characters she’s gotten to portray in her career and the ongoing challenge in getting Jewish portrayals right. Beyond this, we learn about Sukkot and the cultural meaning this holiday holds. This episode offers humor and hope while authentically highlighting the challenges the Jewish community is facing.
All Things Passover with Author Dara Horn (PART TWO)
Is the world more comfortable with dead Jews than living ones? In this powerful conversation, bestselling author Dara Horn (People Love Dead Jews) joins Being Jewish to discuss the origins of antisemitism, how it manifests today—including on college campuses—and why Holocaust education may be doing Jews more harm than good.
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
00:00 Introduction: Embracing Jewish Identity
00:38 The Turning Point: Spring 2021
01:32 Advocacy and the Podcast's Mission
05:52 Guest Introduction: Skylar Astin
07:45 Skylar's Jewish Journey
15:34 Navigating Jewish Identity in Hollywood
21:35 Combating Antisemitism: Past and Present
24:24 Reflecting on Jewish Identity and Anti-Semitism
26:17 Navigating Social Media and Public Perception
28:31 Balancing Activism and Professionalism
32:45 Experiences in the Entertainment Industry
37:45 Personal Connections and Jewish Culture
39:42 Engaging with the Audience
45:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Both the show’s audience and the established audience of each guest will have a unique opportunity to discover their hero’s connection to the Jewish experience through a thought-provoking conversation they won’t have heard anywhere else.
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Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
00:00 Introduction to Yom Kippur and Self-Reflection
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
00:00 Jonah's Arrival in Israel
00:48 Reflecting on the Tragedy of October 7th
03:43 Encounters and Stories of Resilience
06:39 Unity and Mourning in Israel
09:02 Interview with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum
11:54 Fleur's Background and Family History
22:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Jerusalem
29:11 Diverse Jerusalem: A Melting Pot of Cultures
29:27 Differences Between Israeli and Diaspora Jews
29:59 Understanding Antisemitism: A Wake-Up Call
31:07 The Evolution of Zionism
32:12 Diaspora Jews and Israeli Identity
34:47 The Communications War: Israel's PR Struggles
38:19 Israel's Current Trajectory and Challenges
44:49 Resilience and Hope for the Future
45:30 Celebrating Sukkot Amidst Turmoil
46:28 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
00:00 Introduction and Context
00:16 Exploring Jewish Identity
01:05 Challenging Jewish Validity
02:23 Solidarity and Unification
06:05 Introducing Van Jones
08:00 Van Jones' Early Life and Influences
13:29 Experiences with Racism and Activism
23:20 Media Integrity and Bias
27:08 Addressing Anti-Semitism and Advocacy
34:20 The Palestinian Cause and Hamas
35:23 Personal Impact and Progressive Identity
36:18 Social Media and Public Perception
37:06 Standing Up for All Communities
37:29 Facing Fear and Speaking Out
40:46 Complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel).
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!
01:27 Introducing the Four Cs of Productive Conversations
01:35 C1: Curiosity - The Key to Understanding
02:54 C2: Calm - Keeping the Stakes Low
03:32 C3: Camaraderie - Building Connections
04:17 C4: Compassion - Shared Humanity
04:48 Boundaries and Positivity in Conversations
05:24 Engaging with the Audience
05:49 Welcome to 'Being Jewish' with Jonah Platt
07:05 Jackie Tone's Jewish Upbringing
12:26 Jackie Tone's Acting Journey
14:17 Jewish Representation in Media
20:37 Critiques and Responses to the Show
27:08 Visual Storytelling and Character Dynamics
28:07 Feedback from the Jewish Community
28:51 Authenticity in the Writer's Room
30:00 Navigating Jewish Traditions On-Screen
32:44 Interfaith Relationships and Jewish Identity
36:18 Creating Joy Amidst Adversity
39:55 Season Two Expectations and Personal Projects
49:27 Audience Questions and Future Plans
📖 Dara’s entire body of fiction work and what inspires her stories
🍷 Her famously elaborate Passover Seders
🎉 A slew of other fun and thought-provoking Jewish questions
🐐 And of course… her new children’s book One Little Goat — out now!
This episode is a must-listen and watch for lovers of Jewish culture, literature, and tradition — and for anyone seeking deeper insights into how Judaism shows up in the stories we tell and the ones we inherit.
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell
Mentioned In The Episode
GET DARA’S NEW BOOK! One Small Goat: A Passover Catastrophe by Dara Horn: https://a.co/d/a54x1wz
Dara and Jonah also explore the role of Jews as history’s great non-conformists, the truth about Zionism and… ancient Greek reverse circumcisions?! If you want to understand the real story behind antisemitism, Jewish resilience, Israel, and why these issues matter more than ever, don’t miss this episode!
Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell
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