Explore every episode of the podcast Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA Election Special! Can Republican Steve Hilton End 16 Years of Democrat Domination? | 22 oct. 2026 | 00:26:36 | |
In the first episode of our Jewish American Summit series, Jonah sits down with Steve Hilton, Republican candidate for California governor, for a candid conversation about antisemitism, Jewish safety, and the future of the Golden State. Hilton discusses what he calls the growing threats facing California’s Jewish community, from Jewish students afraid to display their identities, to concerns about antisemitism in public schools and university campuses. He shares his plans to address antisemitism, reform education, and hold teachers’ unions accountable, while explaining why he believes California needs a major change in leadership. Jonah also presses Hilton on antisemitism on the political right, the rise of extremism, and how he would support Jewish Californians across party lines. Plus, Hilton makes his case for tackling California’s affordability crisis, homelessness, crime, and struggling entertainment and agriculture industries. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Steve Hilton CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Chief of Staff: Abbe Feder, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| Broadway Legend Tovah Feldshuh on a Lifetime of Playing (and Defending!) Iconic Jewish Women | 20 oct. 2026 | 01:02:17 | |
What does it mean to be unapologetically Jewish in an industry that has often encouraged people to hide their identity? This week, Jonah sits down with legendary actress Tovah Feldshuh, the four-time Tony Award nominee and two-time Emmy nominee whose extraordinary career has brought some of history's most iconic Jewish women to life, from Golda Meir and Ruth Bader Ginsburg to Dr. Ruth Westheimer and Yentl. Fresh off her role as the fiercely protective and controversial Bina Rockloff on Netflix's Nobody Wants This, Tovah opens up about the backlash surrounding her character, accusations of Jewish stereotypes, and why she believes Bina represents something far more meaningful than audiences might realize. But the conversation goes well beyond Hollywood. Tovah and Jonah tackle the alarming rise of antisemitism, the aftermath of October 7, the importance of Israel's survival, and why she refuses to soften her Jewish identity to make others comfortable. Tovah also reflects on her experience starring in the groundbreaking 1978 miniseries Holocaust, her deeply personal connection to Golda Meir, her family's immigrant history, and the remarkable decision to embrace a more recognizably Jewish name at a time when so many performers were doing the opposite. From Hollywood controversies and Jewish representation to courage, survival, and the responsibility of passing Jewish identity to the next generation, this is a passionate, funny, and unfiltered conversation with a woman who has spent her life refusing to be anyone but herself. Because for Tovah Feldshuh, being Jewish isn't something to hide. It's something to stand up for. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 01:30 Playing Bina on Nobody Wants This: Jewish Mothers, Stereotypes & Survival 08:30 Jewish Identity, Golda Meir & Speaking Out Against Antisemitism 25:00 A Lifetime in Hollywood: Yentl, Ruth Bader Ginsburg & Holocaust 42:10 From Terry Sue to Tovah: Embracing Her Jewish Name & Identity 51:05 Portraying Iconic Jewish Women, Jewish Pride & the Power of Legacy More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Tovah Feldshuh: CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Chief of Staff: Abbe Feder, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| Being Jewish In… Publishing, with Author Meg Keene | 15 oct. 2026 | 00:24:24 | |
NEW SEGMENT! In the first installment of our new segment “Being Jewish In…” we explore the hostile environment facing Jewish authors, agents and editors in the world of Publishing with acclaimed author and digital publisher Meg Keene, newly appointed editor of the eponymous Meg Keene Books, a new imprint focused on publishing Jewish stories by Jewish authors. Keene shares her own experience of being advised to remove Hebrew, Jewish names, and cultural details from a Jewish romance manuscript that might “trigger” editors – a story later featured in PEN America’s The Silent Moratorium. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Meg Keene Buy Meg Keene’s Books on Amazon CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Chief of Staff: Abbe Feder, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| Is Sweetgreen CEO Jonathan Neman Living the Persian Jewish American Dream? | 13 oct. 2026 | 00:49:54 | |
Can a CEO speak out against antisemitism without becoming the story? Sweetgreen co-founder and CEO Jonathan Neman reflects on his Persian Jewish family's escape from Iran to Los Angeles and the entrepreneurial spirit and contributions of the Persian Jewish community. He talks about his mother’s arrival in Los Angeles in 1979 for what was supposed to be a summer visit and never returned to Iran, and growing up feeling like an outsider. Jonathan also discusses his evolving pride in his Persian Jewish identity, and the values that shaped his entrepreneurial ambitions. Jonathan tells us about the backlash to his public comments about antisemitism after October 7, 2023, including his viral response to a letter from Harvard student groups blaming Israel for the attacks. He shares what he learned about using his platform to educate rather than provke, and why he believes the best response to Jew-hatred is to lead by example, celebrate Jewish culture, and invite others in through traditions like Shabbat. Plus, Jonathan opens up about Sweetgreen's business challenges, the company's farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, and why he believes creativity and craft are essential to its future. He shares how his nearly 1,000-day meditation streak helps him navigate the pressures of leadership, how meditation has deepened his connection to Jewish prayer, and whether kosher Sweetgreen could one day become a reality. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: Speaking Up as a Jewish CEO After October 7 00:50 Fighting Antisemitism Through Jewish Pride and Connection 10:50 The Persian Jewish Experience: Immigration, Resilience, and Entrepreneurship 22:00 The Sweetgreen Crisis? Food Safety, Media Panic, and Building a Business 33:20 Kosher Sweetgreen, Jewish Traditions, and Rapid-Fire Questions 43:00 More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Jonathan Neman: CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Chief of Staff: Abbe Feder, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| A Letter To My Non-Jewish Friends | 08 oct. 2026 | 00:15:32 | |
On the third anniversary of October 7th, Jonah delivers a powerful and deeply personal open letter to his non-Jewish friends, colleagues, and allies about what it means to stand with the Jewish people. In this special solo episode of Being Jewish, Jonah reflects on the past three years of rising antisemitism, fractured friendships, and the growing isolation of Jewish communities. He addresses the dangerous normalization of anti-Jewish rhetoric, the misunderstanding of Zionism and Jewish identity, and the painful silence of those who have chosen to look away. Why have so many Jews felt abandoned by people they once trusted? How did standing up against antisemitism become controversial? And what does meaningful allyship actually look like? Through an honest, emotional, and urgent appeal, Jonah challenges listeners to confront uncomfortable truths, recognize the humanity behind the headlines, and understand why speaking up matters now more than ever. This is an episode about friendship, courage, Jewish identity, and the responsibility we all share to stand against hate. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| Today We Remember (Replay) | 07 oct. 2026 | 00:06:36 | |
Today we remember the 1,200 victims, the hostages, and the profound trauma of the October 7th terror attacks in Israel. We remember the loss of innocence and the incredible resilience of the Jewish people. We remember the hostages taken, the global reaction, the rise of anti-Jewish hate, and the enduring strength of the Jewish State. Join the conversation and share this message of remembrance and defiance. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| She’s Back! Dara Horn Returns to talk The Big Lie and the Origins of Antizionism | 06 oct. 2026 | 01:23:02 | |
What if the most dangerous lies about Jews are the ones we’ve been taught to believe? Bestselling author Dara Horn returns to Being Jewish for a super-sized episode to discuss her new book The Final Solution to the Jewish Question and why she believes antisemitism is more than prejudice. Dara describes antisemitism as a power-serving lie built around the idea that Jews are destroying what others value most. Dara explores how propaganda spreads, from the illusory truth effect and information laundering, to harassment campaigns and the manipulation of platforms like Reddit, Wikipedia, and AI platforms. Dara traces the evolution of modern anti-Zionism through Soviet and Islamist networks and the 2001 Durban Conference, while challenging empathy-only approaches to antisemitism that can erase Jewish difference. She also gives her opinions on Holocaust education, explains the myth of a “golden age” for American Jews, and shares a powerful story about Theodor Herzl’s grandfather. Dara answers the question of what it means to choose Jewish continuity. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: Propaganda Game - Bad News The Real Root of Antisemitism: Curiosity vs. Conformity 2:11 Antisemitism as a Lie Used to Gain Power 6:58 What Holocaust Education Gets Wrong 40:51 The Myth of America’s Jewish “Golden Age” & the Power of Jewish Agency 50:49 Zionism, the UN, Data Poisoning & the Battle Over History 1:01:24 More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Dara Horn: CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Tova Benarroch, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate Want Sapir free of charge? Head to sapirjournal.org/beingjewish | |||
| SUKKOT SPECIAL: How to Find Joy in an Uncertain World w/ Rabbi Adam Greenwald | 01 oct. 2026 | 00:20:00 | |
What can a temporary hut teach us about living a meaningful life? In this special Sukkot episode of Being Jewish, Jonah sits down with Rabbi Adam Greenwald to unpack one of Judaism’s most joyful, and perhaps most misunderstood holidays. They explore Sukkot’s ancient origins as a harvest festival tied to the Land of Israel, why Jews shake the lulav and etrog in every direction (maybe like a certain dance we all know), and why the sukkah is intentionally built to be temporary and open to the stars. Rabbi Greenwald also explains the beautiful tradition of ushpizin, inviting the presence of ancestors and loved ones into the sukkah, and shares how anyone can find meaning in Sukkot, even without a backyard or the ability to build a sukkah of their own. But beneath all of these traditions lies a much bigger lesson: everything we build is temporary. In a world that can change in an instant, Sukkot asks us to stop trying to control the uncontrollable and instead gather with the people we love, appreciate what we have, and find meaning and joy in the present moment. It’s a conversation about Jewish tradition, gratitude, nature, family, uncertainty – and learning how to live fully inside a fragile world. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Rabbi Adam Greenwald CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| SON OF HAMAS - Season 3 Premiere! Our most shocking conversation EVER with Mosab Hassan Yousef aka The Green Prince (LIVE!) | 29 sept. 2026 | 00:50:50 | |
What happens when the son of a Hamas founder becomes one of the terrorist organization’s biggest enemies? Season 3 of Being Jewish kicks off with a powerful live conversation between Jonah Platt and Mosab Hassan Yousef, known as “The Green Prince,” recorded at the Jewish American Summit in Los Angeles. The son of Hamas co-founder Sheikh Hassan Yousef, Mosab shares the extraordinary story behind his book Son of Hamas and the documentary The Green Prince, and explains why he believes the fight against Hamas and jihadism is both crucial and existential. Yousef passionately discusses everything from the Israel-Hamas war and the U.S.-Israel relationship, to social media, the Muslim Brotherhood and the growing divisions he sees across the West. He also speaks openly about his rejection of Islam and expresses extreme anti-Muslim views that Jonah makes clear he does not share. It’s a raw, provocative conversation about Israel, Hamas, Islamism, America and what Yousef believes is at stake in the fight ahead. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 3:25 - Meet The Green Prince 4:48 - Mosab’s Connection To The Middle East and Toxic Social Media 9:50 - Mosab’s Message To The World 17:00 - What It Would Take To Beat The Barbarians 22:00 - Division In America 31:00 - Mosab’s Views On Islam 42:05 - Love Of America And Israel More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Mossab Hassan Yousef: CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Thanks to Birthright, the Presenting Title Sponsor of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 3 https://birthrightisrael.foundation/donate | |||
| Israel's Next Election: What Happens if Bibi Wins, What Happens If He Loses? | Journalist Nadav Eyal (Replay) | 24 sept. 2026 | 00:20:44 | |
Israeli journalist Nadav Eyal joins Jonah to break down the upcoming Israeli elections and the fight for Benjamin Netanyahu's political future. Nadav lays out what a Netanyahu win would really signal about Israeli society, who is quietly considering leaving the country, and why the opposition still hasn't found the candidate to beat him. Then the flip side: what actually happens if Netanyahu loses. Nadav explains the plea deal calculation working against the clock, the education crisis nobody outside Israel is talking about, and what a new government's first moves would mean for Jews in the diaspora. If you want to go deeper beyond the podcast, join the Being Jewish Kehillah – our subscriber community that gives you access to exclusive bonus content, merch discounts, live office hours with Jonah, special community events, and more. Join the Kehillah today at http://beingjewishpodcast.com/join-kehillah More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| BEST OF: Journalists, ft. Van Jones, Dana Bash, Jake Tapper, Erin Molan, and Bernard-Henri Lévy | 22 sept. 2026 | 00:49:52 | |
What does it actually cost to tell the truth about Jews and Israel? Erin Molan discusses Israel's controversial decision to withhold some of the most horrific October 7th footage, why a 30-second radio soundbite can shape public opinion more than a protest, and the letter from an Australian miner that changed how she measures impact. Bernard-Henri Lévy draws on his reporting from Rwanda and Darfur to explain what genocide actually looks like, why he believes Hamas must be defeated militarily, and why he sees anti-Zionism as inseparable from the question of Israel’s existence. Van Jones talks about the connection between the Jewish and Black communities, how the Palestinian cause has been hijacked by a bunch of Nazis, and the uncomfortable truth about who paid the price for the civil rights movement. Dana Bash takes us inside the newsroom on October 7th, tells us about the harassment her and her family experienced, and what it means to find community with fellow Jewish journalists under pressure. Jake Tapper opens up about protesters outside his home and why antisemitism on the right deserves just as much scrutiny as antisemitism on the left. Five journalists. Five perspectives. One very delicate and nuanced topic. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 1:18 - Erin Molan 8:04 - Bernard-Henri Lévy 15:02 - Van Jones 27:09 - Dana Bash 39:05 - Jake Tapper
Watch Erin Molan’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4zAynWP2II Watch Bernard-Henri Lévy’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4wcg28NEwQ Watch Van Jones’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZR0qUIUGAKM Watch Dana Bash’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo5fFkBni-s Watch Jake Tapper’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtHLHgmfXt0 More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Going “Full Jew” (Replay) | 17 sept. 2026 | 00:07:12 | |
What does it mean to go “Full Jew?” In this inspiring monologue, Jonah talks about what he’s learned from his engagement with thousands of Jews online, in Israel, and across the U.S. He shares three major revelations about Jewish identity, anxiety, and the hesitation many feel about leaning into their Jewishness aka “Going Full Jew.” If you’ve wanted to be more proud of your Judaism and don’t know how to express it, this monologue is for you. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZA3JDpww9VU More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| BEST OF: Israelis, featuring Noa Tishby, Einat Wilf, President Isaac Herzog, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum and Tomer Peretz | 15 sept. 2026 | 00:47:15 | |
What do Israelis know about Israel that the rest of us don’t? Noa Tishby discusses how she noticed the rise of antisemitism and anti-Zionism long before October 7th, why she focuses on reaching moderates, and shares a powerful story of a Pro-Palestine college student who changed her views on Israel after reading Noa’s book. Einat Wilf describes what it means to belong to the Israeli collective, her hopes for universal civic service, and why arguing over what makes Israel “Jewish” is itself Jewish tradition. Fleur Hassan-Nahoum breaks down the debate in Israel about ultra-Orthodox integration into work and service, how Jerusalem is the hub for building bridges between Jews and Arabs, and why Israelis don’t understand antisemitism the way diaspora Jews do. Tomer Peretz shares his firsthand experiences serving in the IDF, the shocking things he saw while volunteering with Zaka after the Nova massacre, and why he gave up bridge building with people who believe Israel shouldn’t exist. Finally, President Isaac Herzog explains Israel’s high-stakes elections, how he’s handling the rising antisemitism worldwide, and his goal to strengthen the Israeli-diaspora ties. Five Israelis. One homeland. When Israelis talk about Israel, maybe we oughta be quiet and listen. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 1:07 - Noa Tishby 9:03 - Einat Wilf 19:30 - Fleur Hassan-Nahoum 26:29 - Tomer Perez 34:33 - President Isaac Herzog Watch Noa Tishby’s Full Episode: https://youtu.be/HJm4X-5Y7Gg?si=N8z3e_BRLxjpxSJD Watch Einat Wilf’s Full Episode: https://youtu.be/tsHsAJtGAr8?si=DeDorfx3EmVqPPce Watch Fleur Hassan-Nahoum’s Full Episode: https://youtu.be/G_AB3aAEEyI?si=UR0Vqf_P6bIOl921 Watch Tomer Peretz’s Full Episode: https://youtu.be/SiX2JFxgCKs?si=n1J3F4bIl5rgnt9Y Watch President Isaac Herzog’s Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQq0H6Aal4Q More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Why Some Liberal Jews Become Antizionists (Replay) | 10 sept. 2026 | 00:12:01 | |
Why are some young Jews turning against Israel? In this compassionate monologue, Jonah dives into one of the most misunderstood and emotionally charged dynamics in modern Jewish life: the rise of young and progressive Jews who identify as Anti-Zionist. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Using the unexpected metaphor of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” Jonah unpacks how community, identity, education, and social pressure have shaped a generation of American and Diasporic Jews who feel more at home in progressive echo chambers than in traditional Jewish spaces. He argues that the disconnect has led to misunderstandings about Israel that cause harm, whether they know it or not. If you’ve ever felt frustrated about the Jewish response to Israel today, this monologue is for you. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XooaQ4oUdQY | |||
| BEST OF: Business, ft. Sheryl Sandberg, Daniel Lubetzky, Harley Finkelstein, and Mark Wilf | 08 sept. 2026 | 00:58:11 | |
How do you build a billion-dollar business without sacrificing your values? Mark Wilf shares how his family turned a dream of owning an NFL team into a multibillion-dollar franchise, why he feels a responsibility to foster a community of acceptance through the Minnesota Vikings, and how his family’s Holocaust survival story shaped his commitment to giving back. Sheryl Sandberg reflects on her journey from Meta to Google, the lessons she learned that shaped her leadership, and how October 7th transformed her relationship with her own Jewish identity and pride. Harley Finkelstein explains how he went from a T-shirt business entrepreneur to President of Shopify, why he followed through with his promise of building a Chabad building at his alma mater, and why having a platform comes with responsibility. Daniel Lubetzky reveals how his father’s Holocaust story inspired a lifelong commitment to kindness and bridge-building, how that philosophy became the foundation of KIND and PeaceWorks, and why he uses business to bring people together. Four Jewish business leaders. Four extraordinary journeys. Because the most meaningful measure of success isn’t what you build, it’s what you do with it. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:22 - Mark Wilf On Owning the Minnesota Vikings with Jewish Values. 11:37 - Sheryl Sandberg on her book Lean In and her identity in the workplace. 25:25 - Harley Finkelstein on being a loud and proud Jewish entrepreneur and leading Shopify to the next frontier. 41:56 - Daniel Lubetzky on building bridges and leading with kindness. Watch Mark Wilf’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0knLtjPcCY Watch Sheryl Sandberg’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUez5CSRuvY Watch Harley Finkelstein’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Q0JInijtgY Watch Daniel Lubetzky’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFPYj8ppMlU More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Supervising Producer: Alex Alcheh Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, | |||
| Should Jews Proselytize? (Replay) | 03 sept. 2026 | 00:11:51 | |
Should Jews start recruiting? In this insightful monologue, Jonah Platt asks why Jews don’t proselytize, and whether that long-standing tradition still benefits the Jewish people today. Judaism offers a rich framework of ritual, purpose, and community, and yet does almost nothing to reach the millions of spiritually searching people who might genuinely thrive within it. Meanwhile, the Jewish population remains remarkably small, and the non-Orthodox community continues to shrink. Jonah makes the case that Jewish survival in the 21st century requires us to challenge one of our most deeply ingrained assumptions: that Jews should wait for potential converts to find us, rather than actively inviting them in. This isn't about cheapening Judaism. It's about asking whether our silence is a strategy, or just an outdated tradition. If you’ve ever wondered why Judaism isn’t widespread, this monologue is for you. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUr4WPW0wYQ More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| LIVE From Atlanta: Excerpts from a Concert-sation with Yours Truly! | 01 sept. 2026 | 00:51:46 | |
In this special live episode of Being Jewish, Jonah takes the show on the road to Atlanta for a one-night-only “Concert-Sation” with Neranenah Executive Director and pianist Joe Alterman at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. Blending conversation with live music, Jonah performs a medley of music including a mashup of songs from Broadway, Jonah’s original never-before-heard song “A Tear in the Sky” from his musical adaptation of Lois Lowry’s The Giver, and more! Jonah discusses the Jewishness of Broadway, how Camp Ramah shaped his Jewish identity and life-long friendships, and becoming more politically active on social media after the 2021 Israel-Gaza violence. He also describes his 2023 Israel trip with the Tel Aviv Institute led by Hen Mazzig in 2023, and his decision to shift his focus from acting toward Jewish advocacy. This episode has music, laughter, and a deeply personal look at what it means to live your Jewish values out loud. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: DANCING THROUGH LIFE/AS LONG AS YOUR MINE 04:25 - 9:00 Jonah sings Fiyero’s songs, “Dancing Through Life” & “As Long As Your Mine” from the Broadway musical, Wicked. He played the character on Broadway in 2015. ADHD AS AN ADULT 13:52 - 15:05 Jonah gets candid about the challenge and the blessing of receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood. TEAR IN THE SKY 20:16 - 23:59 Jonah sings a now cut song from the musical he is developing with Andrew Resnick. HALLELUJAH 46:49 - 50:10 Jonah finishes the evening with the Leonard Cohen classic, “Hallelujah”. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. www.beingjewishpodcast.com/join-kehillah To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise: https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee, Jacob Ross, John Jurko, Shot By: Jacob Ross, John Jurko, Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt Special Thanks: Joe Alterman, The Marcus Foundation, Good Foot Productions, Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center, Raychel Robbins, Tali Benjamin | |||
| The False Premise of "Zionist" (Replay) | 27 août 2026 | 00:10:18 | |
What does it really mean to call yourself a “Zionist” in today’s world? In this provocative monologue, Jonah argues that the term “Zionist” is vastly misunderstood and weaponized against the Jewish people. Jonah says we should ditch the term altogether by breaking down why continuing to defend Israel’s “right to exist” is a pointless debate. Israel already exists. It is the Jewish homeland. It’s not going anywhere. So instead of letting our enemies frame the term Zionism as an evil entity, let’s celebrate the fact that a Jewish state exists. If you’ve ever been confused by the term “Zionist” and don’t understand how it’s been twisted in the media, this monologue is for you. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKO_VGnSNhc More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| BEST OF: The Icons, ft Cindy Crawford, Jason Alexander, and Stuart Weitzman | 25 août 2026 | 00:34:31 | |
What does it take to be a true icon? Stuart Weitzman shares his journey from creating one sketch to building one of today’s most recognizable luxury shoe brands, how Aretha Franklin helped turn him into the “shoemaker to the stars,” and the Jewish values he carries into his philanthropy. He also reflects on what it means to have Jewish pride, and how we can pass it to the next generation. Cindy Crawford talks about authenticity being the key to true beauty, how she’s embraced raising her children in an interfaith household, why she loves celebrating the Jewish holidays, and her memories from her iconic photoshoot in Israel with IDF soldiers. She also explains why speaking out against antisemitism feels like basic humanity, and reflects on meeting Holocaust survivor Ella Mandel when she did the Borrowed Spotlight project. Jason Alexander explains how Jewish identity shapes his humor and values, how Seinfeld helped him realize that acting could be a form of service, and how his children discovered their own paths in Judaism. He also reflects on the moment he pushed back on Larry David over a portrayal he felt crossed the line. Three icons, one shared mission: to use their platforms and icon status for a purpose. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:28 – Stuart Weitzman 14:19 – Cindy Crawford 31:46 – Jason Alexander Watch Stuart Weitzman’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9L9ONP5zj4 Watch Cindy Crawford’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1roVoyCurrY Watch Jason Alexander’s full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOH30l2BcWM More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| My Muslim Trip to Auschwitz (Replay) | 20 août 2026 | 00:12:02 | |
Is it possible to build a bridge between Muslims and Jews? In this eye-opening monologue, Jonah Platt shares his transformative experience joining a Muslim-Jewish delegation to the annual March of the Living. Jonah visited Auschwitz and Birkenau for the first time, and traveled through Europe with 20 moderate Muslims committed to building bridges with the Jewish world. Jonah reflects on the emotional weight of walking through the Nazi death camps on Yom HaShoah (Israeli Holocaust Remembrance Day), the visceral reality of seeing Auschwitz in person, and the profound sense of Jewish belonging he felt standing on sacred ground. From a 21-year-old Sufi Sheikh who offered spiritual wisdom, to a brave French Moroccan student who endured antisemitic hate without ever denying her solidarity with the Jewish people, Jonah’s encounters shattered stereotypes, and revealed just how much more unites us than divides us. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxMJmjzjF-o More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| BEST OF: Comedians, ft Howie Mandel, Tiffany Haddish, Modi Rosenfeld, and Yohay Sponder | 18 août 2026 | 00:32:27 | |
How do four Jewish comedians find their voice and turn their experiences into comedy? Howie Mandel shares why the stage is where he feels most calm, present, and in control while navigating mental health struggles. He also opens up about being proud of his Jewish identity despite not being highly observant, saying Kaddish for a year while touring by requiring shows to start after sundown so he could pray with a minyan, and the lessons he learned about tzedakah and helping those in need. Tiffany Haddish tells us about how comedy literally saved her life. She also talks about her time working as an “energy producer” at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, studying Judaism with Rabbi Susan Silverman, and celebrating her 40th birthday with a Bat Mitzvah alongside the release of her comedy special Black Mitzvah. Israeli comedian Yohay Sponder explains how performing comedy in English shaped his material about Jewish and Israeli identity, why comedy can communicate what traditional PR cannot, how audiences differ between Israel and the U.S., and why he calls touring his “reserve duty.” Modi Rosenfeld explains why he considers himself a “Jewish comedian,” reflects on being one of the last Catskills comedians, reaching diverse audiences, and knowing his audience. Four comedians. Four comedy styles. One common goal: Spread Jewish joy through laughter. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:58 – Howie Mandel 06:50 – Tiffany Haddish 14:33 – Yohay Sponder 22:28 – Modi Rosenfeld Watch Howie Mandel’s full episode: https://youtu.be/DpncSDHfhGk?si=KiD6pRjUHHRE-tWw Watch Tiffany Haddish’s full episode: https://youtu.be/5QccpVosg3A?si=r34pBuRIvhCsDi2j Watch Yohay Sponder’s full episode: https://youtu.be/LaJQSLPoId0?si=aCFLwk2bAKZg8ogo Watch Modi Rosenfeld’s full episode: https://youtu.be/SjqVNuYnxjg?si=dk5dRusF-BeyHMlV More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Can You Be Jewish and NOT Believe in God? (Replay) | 13 août 2026 | 00:08:34 | |
Can someone deeply connected to Judaism wrestle with God and still belong? In this contemplative monologue, Jonah explores his lifelong struggle with belief, the nature of G-d, and the tension between faith and doubt. From questioning divine presence to contemplating the vastness of the universe, Jonah examines whether spirituality requires certainty, or if the act of searching is its own form of faith. If you’ve ever wrestled with your religious beliefs, this monologue is for you. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLIg93V0qcY More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| BEST OF: Jewish Wisdom, ft Rabbis David Wolpe, Angela Buchdahl, David Lichtenstein, Sharon Brous, and Manis Friedman | 11 août 2026 | 00:45:08 | |
What happens when five rabbis share their Jewish wisdom? In this special BEST OF: Jewish Wisdom mashup, Rabbis David Wolpe, Angela Buchdahl, David Lichtenstein, Sharon Brous, and Manis Friedman tackle some very Jewish questions about faith, identity, meaning, Israel, and how to make sense of the world around us. Rabbi David Wolpe explores whether you need to believe in God to be Jewish, why Jewish law evolves, and why Israel remains central to modern Jewish identity. Rabbi Angela Buchdahl challenges exclusion within Judaism and shares how Jewish wisdom, joy, and community can help us face moments of crisis. David Lichtenstein dives into ritual, faith, Torah study, and finding purpose through adversity. Rabbi Sharon Brous unpacks the complicated balance between criticizing Israel, supporting Palestinians, and living up to Jewish moral responsibility. And Rabbi Manis Friedman asks whether our modern anxiety comes from a deeper sense of meaninglessness, and what it means to be “needed” by God. Five rabbis. Five perspectives. One very big question: What does it actually mean to be Jewish? MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:01:31 — Rabbi David Wolpe 00:09:18 — Rabbi Angela Buchdahl 00:17:11— Dovid Lichtenstein 00:27:15 — Rabbi Sharon Brous 00:36:28 — Rabbi Manis Friedman Watch Rabbi David Wolpe's full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdEvVUJSGMw Watch Rabbi Angela Buchdahl's full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2A1fy_rNgs Watch David Lichtenstein's full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5xHHAZFfRs Watch Rabbi Sharon Brous's full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYYI3VfvO5g Watch Rabbi Manis Friedman's full episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9J2GQLE9UY More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| The No Good Dirty Z Word (Replay) | 06 août 2026 | 00:09:04 | |
What do you do when millions of people have been taught by teachers, influencers, and even professors, that Zionism is a form of evil? In this searing and personal monologue, Jonah analyzes thousands of hateful messages he’s received to uncover important truths: How millions have been brainwashed to believe Zionism is evil, how social media erases Jewish voices and spreads misinformation about Israel, and why the Jewish community must act now to invest in education, allyship, and cultural resilience. From understanding the difference between intentional antisemitism and brainwashed ignorance, to explaining how algorithms create false realities and fuel division, Jonah delivers an unflinching look at today's challenges, and offers a path forward for building a stronger Jewish future. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZAnMb5AMgY More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| "The Floaters”: LIVE from the film’s LA Premiere with star Jackie Tohn & special guests! | 04 août 2026 | 00:40:30 | |
What happens when a movie shoot brings its cast and crew to Jewish summer camp – and then throws bears and lightning into the mix? Following the Los Angeles premiere of The Floaters at the Laemmle Royal in Santa Monica, Jonah sits down with stars of the film Jackie Tohn, Ben Krieger, Jillian Jordyn, and Bekah Zornosa, alongside producers Shai Korman and Andra Gordon, for a special Being Jewish crossover event filmed in front of a live audience. The panel gives us a behind the scenes look at the making of The Floaters. They share their personal Jewish experiences that shaped the film, the pleasantly unexpected places they’ve been invited to screen it, and why publicly celebrating Jewish joy is more important than ever. They also reveal what it was really like on set at an actual Jewish summer camp, where the cast and crew became a family, and where encounters with bears, lightning, and other unexpected surprises made the production an adventure of its own. The conversation, like the film itself, is about Jewish storytelling, community and friendship. In today’s world, movies like The Floaters are exactly what the Jewish people, and the world, need. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: Why Jewish Screen Stories Need More Joy by Rachel Israel Learn more about The Floaters: The Floaters Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/floatersmovie/ Official Website: https://floatersmovie.com/ Official Trailer on YouTube Jackie Tohn: https://www.instagram.com/jackietohn/ Bekah Zornosa: https://www.instagram.com/bekahzornosa/ Jillian Jordyn: https://www.instagram.com/jillianjordynn/ Ben Krieger: https://www.instagram.com/heybenkrieger More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Why we MUST stop using the word "Antisemitism" (Replay) | 30 juil. 2026 | 00:05:49 | |
Why won’t people call antisemitism what it really is? In this powerful monologue, drawing from personal experience, Jonah shares why the word "antisemitism" is outdated, misunderstood, and often ineffective at calling out real, harmful bigotry. Jonah breaks down the urgent need for clarity in how we talk about hate toward Jews. If you’ve ever been frustrated by the muddled debates around antisemitism, then this monologue is for you. It’s time to stop being polite, and to start getting real about Anti-Jew hate. Watch the original monologue on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BV2vAirnQm4 More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Is Uganda Safer for Jews Than America? Inside Africa's Abayudaya Community with Shoshana McKinney Kirya-Ziraba | 28 juil. 2026 | 00:25:36 | |
Are Jews safer in Uganda than in America? Jonah interviews Shoshana McKinney Kirya Ziraba, a Southern California-born Black Jewish woman, now living in Eastern Uganda among the Abayudaya Jewish community. Shoshanah tells us about the nonprofit she runs called Tikvah Chadasha Uganda, Hebrew for "New Hope for Uganda," which provides women in Uganda with sustainable chicken farms, vocational and rehabilitation support for children with disabilities, and educational programs. Shoshana discusses the origins of the Abayudaya Jewish community, and how those who converted about 100 years ago are not the same kinds of converts we think of today. She explains their Sephardic influences, distinctive music, and persecution under Idi Amin when Judaism was outlawed, followed by a public resurgence. Shoshana also compares antisemitism in America with Uganda, and describes Uganda as a healing place where her Black and Jewish identities are normalized. She tells us how Ugandan Synagogues don’t need security the way most diaspora Synagogues do. Shoshanah explains Tikvah Chadasha Uganda’s programs: repairing wheelchairs, supporting children with disabilities and medical needs, providing glasses, building chicken farms to help women earn income, and selling challah covers and kippot on their website. She shares funding challenges and ways to support via tikvahuganda.org and on their YouTube channel. MENTIONS: 1:30 – The History of the Abayudaya Community in Uganda Shoshana discusses how the Abayudaya community came to be, and its roots and connection to Judaism. The Abayudaya and “All of Us”: Partners in Tikkun Olam 3:35 – Music in the Abayudaya Community Shoshana discusses music in the community, and its Grammy-nominated album Abayudaya: Music from the Jewish People of Uganda 3:55 – Judaism Outlawed in Uganda Shoshanaa discusses the period in Uganda where Judaism was outlawed. https://jewishmuseum.org.uk/2019/12/04/the-abayudaya-the-jews-of-uganda/ 5:50 – Christian Ugandan Pro-Israel Rally Shoshana tells us about the Christian pro-Israel rally that occured in Uganda after the October 7th attacks. https://www.jns.org/israel-news/african-christians-hold-prayer-rally-for-israel-in-uganda 11:54 – Discussion about Tikvah Chadasha Uganda Shoshana describes the non-profit organization she formed in Uganda to support women, girls, and the Jewish community. https://jwa.org/blog/7-questions-shoshana-mckinney-kirya-ziraba 16:21 – Ohr Torah Stone Learn More About Shoshana Abayudaya Communities in Uganda More Being Jewish: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish CREDITS Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producer: Jonah Platt, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Operations Associate: Emma Webb, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Jonah’s Plan for the Jewish Future & Music Mogul Scooter Braun | 21 juil. 2026 | 01:14:32 | |
Is antisemitism the music industry's open secret? Scooter Braun, the man behind icons such as Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, and pre-Nazi Kanye West, joins Jonah for a conversation about his journey of taking the Nova Music Festival Exhibition outside of Israel and showing it to the world. Braun connects his family’s Holocaust story to his decision to become one of the only voices in the music industry to speak up after October 7th. To him, a music festival is an untouchable sacred place. After visiting Israel to meet the Nova survivors, he saw peace-seeking kids whose stories had to be told. Braun talks about turning Nova into an immersive exhibition in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and London, and why he sees that work as “hand-to-hand combat” in a world consumed by social media. He also tells stories of how seeing the exhibit has actually opened minds. He explains why he’d rather call Jew-hatred racism, and how words like “antisemitism” and “Zionist” are masks for racism. Braun also reflects on raising proud Jewish children by passing down his grandparents’ Holocaust survival stories. His work, both professional and personal, is guided by the Nova survivors’ message: “We will dance again.” MONOLOGUE: Jonah argues that we could be entering a Jewish Golden Age, and tells us why unity – or JEWnity – is how we’ll get there. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:24:15 – Antisemitism as Racism Scooter explains why he thinks “antisemitism” can alienate Jews from other minority experiences, and why calling Jew-hatred “racism” creates more common ground. 00:28:45 – Speaking Up After October 7 Scooter opens up about feeling like the “wrong person” to speak publicly, then realizing that too few people with platforms were standing up for the Nova victims. https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-895318 00:36:30 – The Nova Exhibit Scooter describes using business meetings to bring artists and executives through the Nova Music Festival Exhibition, where figures like Ryan Tedder, Usher, and Jermaine Dupri were deeply moved. 00:43:15 – Palestinians and Israelis Finding Common Ground at Nova Scooter recalls private events with Palestinian and pro-Palestinian visitors, including a Palestinian friend in a keffiyeh being embraced by an Israeli inside the exhibit. Israeli and Palestinian Men Embrace at the Nova Exhibit 00:51:15 – In-Person Conversations Change Minds Scooter argues that online outrage cannot build understanding, and that real change happens through one-on-one conversations, friendships, and small tables. 01:04:15 – “We Will Dance Again”: The Nova Survivors’ Message of Hope Scooter explains why the Nova survivors’ slogan means more to him than defiance alone: tell people what happened, then choose life, joy, and dancing again. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Scooter Braun: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Associate Producer: Rachel Stern, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Sasha Fiora, Production Interns: Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| The Future of British Jewry with Baroness Luciana Berger, Plus Special Guest Nadav Eyal! | 14 juil. 2026 | 01:11:55 | |
Can Britain stop its antisemitism crisis before it's too late? Baroness Luciana Berger, a member of the House of Lords in the UK Parliament, spoke to Jonah in the aftermath of the sudden resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Baroness explains what this resignation means for the Labour Party, including the likely rise of Andy Burnham as the candidate to represent the party in the Prime Minister elections. Baroness Berger reflects on Starmer’s role in rooting out antisemitism in the Labour Party following the Equality and Human Rights Commission findings that revealed an immense imbalance of racially targeted attacks towards Jews versus other communities in the UK. She also recounts her own experience of threats, harassment, and political toxicity under Jeremy Corbyn, which led her to leave the Labour Party in 2019, and later returned to the party in 2023. She discusses the under-16 social media ban she championed, the far-right UK political Reform Party, and rising antisemitism in the UK after October 7, including attacks in Greater Manchester, Golders Green, and the arrest of spies for Iran. Baroness Berger also describes increased Jewish school security, and emphasizes the vibrancy of British Jewish life. MONOLOGUE: Israeli Journalist Nadav Eyal joins Jonah for a special bonus interview to break down the upcoming Israeli state elections, and what a Netanyahu win or loss would signal for Israel and the diaspora. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:23:30 – PM Starmer Resignation Fallout Baroness Luciana Berger tells us where she was when Starmer suddenly resigned from his position of Prime Minister, and what prompted Starmer to step down. Starmer Quits as Labour Leader and Paves Way For Contest For New Prime Minister 00:30:25 – Baroness Berger’s Political Origin Story Baroness Luciana Berger walks through her journey from student politics to National politics in the Labour party, the challenges she faced while campaigning, and why she left the Labour party for years during a toxic era for the party. 00:36:10 – Threats, Harassment, and Breaking Point Baroness Luciana Berger describes the harassment and threats to her physical safety she received as a Jewish representative. Labour's Luciana Berger Receives Death Threats Telling Her to 'Watch Her Back' 00:41:20 EHRC Probe and Reform Plan Baroness Luciana Berger explains the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) 2020 investigation into antisemitism in the Labour party. 00:44:22 – Andy Burnham as the next PM Baroness Luciana Berger says her hopes and worries for an Andy Burnham succession as the representative of the Labour party in the next election. Burnham Set To Be Next PM as 322 Labour MPs Back Him in First Nomination Tally 00:48:06 – Antisemitic Attacks in Britain Baroness Luciana Berger describes all of the antisemitic terror attacks since October 7th, including Heaton Park Synagogue, Golders Green, the firebombing of Jewish ambulances in London, and convictions of Brits spying for Iran. The Rise of Antisemitism in the U.K. 00:53:25 – The Beauty of the British Jewish Community Baroness Luciana Berger tells us the close-knit and vibrant Jewish community in Britain, how enrollment in Jewish day schools has gone up, and their positive contributions to society. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Baroness Luciana Berger: Luciana Berger - Jewish Leadership Counsel CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Head of Operations: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| President of Israel Isaac Herzog, plus Jonah Answers Your Questions LIVE | 07 juil. 2026 | 01:06:51 | |
Is Israel at its turning point – or at its breaking point? Jonah interviews Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, who explains Israel’s non-executive presidency and his priority of unifying a debating war-time nation. President Herzog breaks down the challenging future of the Middle East, the pivotal bond between Israel and the Jewish diaspora, and his vision for healing deep political divisions ahead of pivotal Knesset elections – including the heated debate over Haredi military service and the IDF. President Herzog also reflects on the rising global antisemitism post 10/7, and why strengthening ties between Israelis and world Jewry has become one of his highest priorities. He lays out why he sees Israel as a frontline defender of the free world, and the role the Trump administration, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ambassador Mike Huckabee have in reshaping Middle East diplomacy. President Herzog dives into Israel’s evolving diplomatic framework with Lebanon, the challenges of dismantling Hezbollah and Hamas – while insisting that Iran remains “the head of the snake,” and how his Voice of the People initiative can create positive change. He also shares his hopes for Israel’s 80th anniversary. MONOLOGUE: Jonah Phona is back! Jonah responds to listeners’ burning questions about the podcast, his favorite Jewish Broadway show, how to have constructive bridge-building conversations, and more! MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:01:49 – The Role of the President in Israeli Politics President Herzog breaks down his responsibilities as the President of Israel, primarily focusing on his role in unifying the Israeli body politics and nation. The institution of the Presidency 00:03:43 – Haredi Draft Debate President Herzog explains the nuances of the newly passed Torah study bill granting exemption to Heredi Irealis from being drafted into the IDF. Contentious Basic Law on Torah study, aimed at shielding draft evaders, passes 1st reading 00:10:14 – Elections and National Stakes President Herzog tells us what he thinks the stakes of the upcoming Israeli elections are, and his role in making sure Israelis participate peacefully and respectfully. Trends and Key Developments Ahead of the 2026 Israeli Election 00:14:13 – Diaspora and Jewish Unity President Herzog emphasizes the necessity of Jewish education in the Diaspora in order to maintain Israel’s vibrant democracy, and lauds the Jewish Federation’s new bill granting funds to Jewish day schools around the world. Israeli government, JFNA partner on $66.7 million plan to boost Jewish day schools 00:16:36 – Voice of the People Initiative President Herzog tells us about his Voice of the People initiative, which aims to engage a diverse range of Jewish voices from 6 continents, working together to collectively identify, discuss and creatively address the most pressing immediate and long term challenges affecting the Jewish people. Voice of the People Initiative 00:24:23 – War Front Lebanon and Gaza President Herzog talks about the new Israel-Lebanon agreement, the challenges Iran poses to unity in the Middle East, and how the disarmament of Hezbollah and Hamas are essential for lasting peace. Landmark Israel-Lebanon Agreement Intersects the U.S.-Iran Conflict 00:34:45 – The Past, Present, and Future of President Herzog in his Current Role President Herzog reflects on the first 5 years of his presidency, what his current priorities are, and his goals for the rest of his term. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about President Isaac Herzog: Office of President of Israel X Account Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Emma Webb,Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Jonah visits Washington D.C.'s Abrahamic House with interfaith activist Mohammed Al Samawi | 01 juil. 2026 | 01:02:29 | |
What happens when a boy raised on antisemitic propaganda becomes a Muslim bridge-builder whose life is saved by Jewish friends? Mohammed Al Samawi, Yemeni refugee and author of The Fox Hunt, joins Jonah on location at Abrahamic House in Washington, D.C., for a conversation about the painstaking work of learning another person’s story. Al Samawi founded the multi-faith co-living and community space, where Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Bahá’í fellows share meals, host Shabbat and Ramadan gatherings, and create a safer way for people to ask hard questions. In this episode, Al Samawi describes growing up in Sanaa, where slogans like “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” were used to redirect anger away from corrupt leaders and toward Jews. As a teenager, he internalized violent antisemitic ideas, but learning English through movies, reading the Bible in secret, and asking forbidden questions began to unravel what he had been taught. The conversation follows Al Samawi, from reading Torah and messaging Israelis on Facebook to attending his first Muslim-Jewish conference. Later, as the Houthis and Al-Qaeda closed in, three Jewish friends and one Christian friend helped coordinate his evacuation from Yemen. Those experiences became the foundation for Abrahamic House. After October 7, Al Samawi says the house became even more necessary: a place where grief did not have to become separation, and where hospitality could make room for truth. Ultimately, Mohammed’s story makes the case that interfaith work is not abstract idealism; it can be the difference between inherited hatred and real human connection. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:01:22 — Inside Abrahamic House, Where Shabbat Meets Ramadan Mohammed shows Jonah the dining room where fellows host Shabbats, Ramadan celebrations, Eid gatherings, and family-style meals for the community. 00:08:15 — From Antisemitic Indoctrination to Questioning Jewish Hate Mohammed recalls the violent anti-Jewish ideas he absorbed as a teenager and how religious curiosity eventually pushed him to investigate for himself. The Against the Odds Escape of Mohammed Al Samawi | AJC 00:23:30 — How Facebook Became a Window Past Propaganda Mohammed explains how social media helped him meet Jews and Israelis, ask forbidden questions, and discover shared values outside state-controlled narratives. Mohammed Al Samawi: How Interfaith Activism Became, and Saved, His Life 00:34:00 — The 13 Days Hiding from Houthis and Al-Qaeda Mohammed describes hiding in Aden with no safe way out, praying for help, and posting on Facebook in hopes someone could evacuate him. How Facebook friends saved one man from execution 00:42:45 — Why Mohammed Created Abrahamic House in Washington, D.C. Mohammed explains how loneliness as a refugee, his love of friendship, and the model of Friends inspired a real-life interfaith home. 00:51:00 — How to Meet Muslims Beyond Fear and Stereotypes Mohammed urges listeners to investigate Islam the way he investigated Judaism: by meeting people, asking human questions, and resisting extremist narratives. More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Mohammed Al Samawi: Mohammed Al Samawi - Abrahamic House Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Emma Webb,Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| YouTube’s Most Popular (Hasidic!) Rabbi Manis Friedman & How Engaged a Jew are You? | 23 juin 2026 | 00:54:26 | |
How did an 80-year-old Chabad rabbi become a global social media phenomenon, and why is his message resonating from Los Angeles to New Guinea? Rabbi Manis Friedman, author, longtime educator, and one of the world’s most-followed rabbis on YouTube, joins Jonah to ask a deceptively simple question: why are we here? Friedman argues that creation has a direction and that modern anxiety grows from meaninglessness, not deprivation. People are safer and more comfortable than ever, he says, but without knowing what life is for, comfort becomes a treadmill. From tikkun olam to the follower in New Guinea who walked eight hours for internet access and later built a Torah center, Friedman shows how a clear sense of purpose can cross cultures and transform lives. Friedman reframes Torah not as a list of commandments, but as God explaining Himself and inviting humanity into a relationship. For him, that is Chabad’s mission: making God knowable so that love can be real. He explains Shabbat as resting alongside God, modesty as protecting intimacy from the distraction of appearances, and ordinary work as service when it improves the world. When Jonah asks how a parent should respond to a child who says, “I didn’t ask to be born,” Friedman turns the question into the episode’s central claim: stop thinking of yourself as needy. You are needed. His message is bracing but hopeful: meaning begins when life stops being about what we can get and becomes about what we are here to give. THIS WEEK’S MONOLOGUE: Are you a “bad Jew”—or simply disengaged? Jonah replaces guilt with a sharper test: where are your time and energy actually going? MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:01:43 — Why Judaism Says Creation Has a Purpose and Direction Rabbi Manis Friedman explains tikkun olam, humanity’s role in perfecting creation, and why the question of purpose has become urgently modern. What Is Tikkun Olam? - Chabad.org 00:16:10 — The Man Who Walked Eight Hours to Learn Torah Friedman shares how a follower in New Guinea walked eight hours to access internet, then built a Torah center for villagers arriving by canoe. 00:22:45 — The Torah Is God Explaining Why He Needs Us Friedman reframes the Torah and Ten Commandments as God revealing Himself and asking humanity to choose relationship rather than programmed obedience. The Ten Commandments | My Jewish Learning 00:29:13 — How Chabad Makes God Knowable Through Torah and Relationships Friedman explains Chabad as the work of making God knowable, arguing that genuine love—of God or a spouse—depends on understanding. 00:35:21 — You Are Not Needy—You Are Needed by God Friedman argues that humanity’s existence matters because God has “skin in the game,” transforming life from a burden into a divine necessity. 00:46:56 — Why Rabbi Manis Friedman Says Seeing Kills Intimacy Friedman connects modesty to intimacy, arguing that appearances can distract us from loving the person rather than merely their visible qualities. Why Doesn't Anyone Blush Anymore? - Reclaiming Intimacy, Modesty, and Sexuality - Chabad.org More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: partnerships@jonahplatt.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Rabbi Manis Friedman: Rabbi Manis Friedman - YouTube It’s Good to Know - Rabbi Manis Friedman Rabbi Manis Friedman - Instagram Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Emma Webb,Tatum Rosenblatt, Eden Waldman, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Call Me Back x Being Jewish Crossover! Dan Senor predicts the Jewish Future, plus A New Kind of Aliyah | 16 juin 2026 | 00:54:50 | |
From Saudi officials to diaspora Jews, why are so many people listening to Dan Senor? Dan Senor, host of the Call Me Back podcast and co-author of Start-Up Nation, joins Jonah for a deep dive on Israel, Jewish identity, and the future of Jewish life in the Diaspora. Senor explains how Call Me Back built a devoted audience organically, attracting diaspora Jews seeking trustworthy information, journalists looking for good-faith dialogue, and even international listeners, including Saudi officials, drawn to its thoughtful, long-form conversations about Israel and the Middle East. Senor discusses how the October 7 attacks reshaped Jewish engagement, the sense of political homelessness many moderate Jews have experienced, and the opportunities emerging from one of the most consequential moments in modern Jewish history. He also emphasizes the need for a Jewish Renaissance centered on expanding access to Jewish day schools, Jewish summer camps, Israel programs, and lifelong Jewish learning. Senor argues that investing in Jewish education and community infrastructure is essential for Jews to flourish. THIS WEEK’S MONOLOGUE: Jonah reflects on the importance of allies, why he'll sell tickets to future events in pairs, and why “ALLY-ah” may be just as important - if not more important - than aliyah right now. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:07:30 — How Call Me Back Became the World’s Number One Israel Podcast Dan on building the top Israel podcast organically after October 7th. Call me Back Podcast - with Dan Senor - YouTube 00:10:45 — “Israel Was at War. The Diaspora Was Under Attack.” Dan quotes Rabbi Ingber's defining line on October 7th: Israel was at war, but the diaspora had no army to fight back. The toll of the Israel-Hamas War on diaspora Jews 00:15:09 — Would Dan Interview Former Allies Who’ve Gone to a “Dark Place”? Dan considers hosting antisemitic voices to understand, not challenge, their logic. 00:27:33 — Why “Call Me Back” Audience Skews Left of Dan Senor The “October 8th Jew” phenomenon and left-of-center Jews finding community. A look at the October 8th Jews | The Jerusalem Post 00:31:42 — The Jewish Future Is Too Expensive. Here’s How to Fix It. Dan on day schools, affordability gaps, and the case for a Jewish renaissance. Why Jewish Living Feels So Expensive These Days | Kosher Money 00:43:37 — Where Do Adult Jews Without Kids Find Jewish Community? Dan on Rachel Goldberg-Polin, the Hartman Institute, and adult entry points to Jewish life. Rachel Goldberg-Polin on her Jewish faith and her slain son's spiritual quest More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn More about Dan Senor: Call Me Back - with Dan Senor - Podcast Credits: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Sasha Fiora, Production Intern: Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Does Mayim Bialik Feel Safe in Public? & The Collective Punishment Paradox | 09 juin 2026 | 01:13:59 | |
From The Big Bang Theory to Jewish advocacy, Mayim Bialik shares the personal journey behind the public persona. Jonah Platt interviews actress, neuroscientist, author, and Orthodox Jew Mayim Bialik (Blossom and The Big Bang Theory) about rising antizionism and antisemitism, arguing it functions as a hate movement that shuts down dialogue through intimidation and threats. The conversation explores the rise of antizionist activism on college campuses, her parenting two sons amid the campus hostility, and her experiences navigating public criticism. She shares about her experiences visiting family in the West Bank, and her identification with Israel as her homeland. Jonah and Mayim discuss personal experiences of being confronted online and in public. Such as being protested for being labeled a “Zionist,” and her experience with shifting attitudes at UCLA in the late 1990s/early 2000s. She also reflects on her directorial debut, As They Made Us, pressures in Hollywood such as lost sponsorships and exclusion from liberal spaces, and the courage required to remain visibly Jewish in public life. Thoughtful, honest, and often humorous, this episode offers a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and what it means to live proudly as a Jew in the modern world. THIS WEEK’S MONOLOGUE: Jonah unpacks the paradox of two true statements, both seemingly made untrue by the other: Denying the connection of the Jewish people to Israel is bigotry. AND, conflating the Jewish people with Israel is also bigotry. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 00:08:15 — Being a Public Jew in the Age of Social Media and Online Threats Mayim on how social media exposed her to antisemitic threats long before October 7th. Mayim Bialik: Our safety is at risk we've never experienced before00:17:00 — Anti-Zionism on Campus: 30 Years of Hostility from Cincinnati to UCLA Mayim traces three decades of campus anti-Zionism from UCLA swastikas to university protests. 00:32:15 — Liberal Zionism: The Strange Intersection Mayim on staying a committed Zionist while the Democratic Party distances itself. What does it mean to be a Liberal American Zionist?00:40:15 — Life in the West Bank: Armed Settlements, Checkpoints, and Human Complexity Mayim on her family's 50-year life on armed West Bank settlements. ‘Jew-Free Zone’ – My Experience in the West Bank00:53:47 — Hollywood Post-October 7th: Sponsors Lost, Silence, and Jewish Self-Segregation Mayim on losing podcast sponsors and Hollywood's silence after October 7th. I was betrayed by Hollywood for speaking out after October 7, says Will & Grace star Debra Messing01:05:24 — Baal Teshuva: From Reform Roots to Modern Orthodoxy, Divorce, and the Gaps in Jewish Community Mayim traces her baal teshuva path from Reform childhood to Modern Orthodoxy. What Is a Baal Teshuvah?This Episode’s Partner: Start watching or listening to Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam at unpacked.bio/WJ More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn more about Mayim Bialik: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missmayim/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MayimBialik Podcast: https://www.bialikbreakdown.com/ Credits: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Sasha Nelson Production Intern: Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Is Antizionism Antisemitism? Adam Louis-Klein, Founder of Movement Against Antizionism | 02 juin 2026 | 01:15:58 | |
What if the answer to "is antizionism antisemitism" is NO...but not for the reason you think? Adam Louis-Klein breaks down the history, language, and ideas driving the debate.
In a thought-provoking conversation, host Jonah Platt interviews Adam Louis-Klein, who returned from anthropological fieldwork with the Desana in the Amazon just after October 7, 2023, to discover the horrors of the attack on Israel. This drove him to become a leading voice opposing antizionism through his writing, appearances, and the organization he founded, Movement Against Antizionism (MAAZ). Adam defines antizionism as hatred of Israel and argues it functions like racism via obsessive libels, such as “colonizer,” “apartheid,” and “genocide,” used to justify hostility and violence against Jewish people. He distinguishes pre-1948 Jewish antizionism from modern antizionism, which he traces to Arab nationalist and Soviet propaganda, and criticizes institutional normalization in universities, NGOs, media, and governments. Klein contends antizionism harms Palestinians by empowering militias like Hamas and Hezbollah and outlines a “truth and reconciliation” vision including antizionism studies and memorialization.
Together, Jonah and Adam discuss the history of Bundism, Reform Judaism, Neturei Karta, the Oslo Accords, and debates surrounding the West Bank, Judea and Samaria, and Israeli identity. The episode also explores how to engage progressive audiences, respond to antizionist rhetoric, and build institutions capable of addressing one of the most consequential ideological battles facing the Jewish community today.
Plus, this week Jonah is back with the fourth installment of L’Dor V'adorable! We thought it couldn’t get any more adorable. MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: 16:17 — The Three Core Antizionist Libels: Colonizer, Apartheid, and Genocide Klein breaks down the foundational accusations driving the antizionist movement — how the colonizer, apartheid, and genocide narratives were engineered to exploit modern moral sensibilities. 23:37 — Why "Antizionism" Is the Right Term (Not "Antisemitism") Klein explains why the hate movement has been named as antizionism rather than antisemitism — including the historical parallelism between the two terms and why the distinction actually reaches more people. Understanding Antisemitism and Anti-Zionism 51:29 — How Antizionism Harms Palestinians, Allies, and Civilization Itself A breakdown of the collateral damage antizionism causes beyond Jews — including Palestinians living under Hamas/Hezbollah, non-Jewish allies marked as Zionists, and the broader erosion of democratic norms. Antizionism Is a Hate Movement That Harms Palestinians and All Western Societies 1:15:03 - A Vision for a Post-Anti-Zionism World Klein's framework for what it would take for society to fully reckon with antizionism the way it has with the Holocaust, including media accountability, university reform, and memorialization. This Episode’s Partner: Thank you to Birthright Israel Foundation More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn More about Adam Louis-Klein: Movement Against Antizionism(MAAZ) CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Sasha Nelson Production Intern: Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Israeli Comedian Yohay Sponder, Plus Finding Your Jewish “Ikigai” (Reason for Being) | 26 mai 2026 | 01:14:15 | |
Israeli comedian Yohay Sponder turns grief, antisemitism, and the Jewish experience into one of the funniest and most unexpectedly moving conversations you’ll hear all year. In this hilarious, heartfelt, and surprisingly profound episode, stand-up comic Yohay Sponder joins host Jonah Platt for a wide-ranging conversation about comedy, Jewish identity, Israel, and the global Jewish experience. Known for his viral English-language stand-up and international tours, Sponder reflects on performing for Jewish audiences across Australia, Germany, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States while witnessing rising antizionist hate around the world. Sponder recounts the shocking experience of show cancellations in Amsterdam and Australia after public threats and claims of “perceived insensitivity” in his material. Along the way, the two discuss why Yohay performs in English, what he’s learned being married to an American, and how growing up the grandchild of Holocaust survivors influenced his comedic spark. He shares his goals of making people laugh while spreading Jewish pride and the inspiration behind his comedy specials, Self-Loving Jew and Genesis. Using humor and vulnerability, Sponder examines what connects Jews globally, emphasizing comedy’s role in strengthening cultural bonds. The episode dives into Sponder’s evolving relationship with Judaism following the death of his father, Holocaust-survivor grandparents, his embrace of traditions like tefillin and wearing a (giant) Star of David. THIS WEEK’S MONOLOGUE: Jonah ponders Ikiagi, the Japanese concept for “your reason for being,” and how you can find your own Jewish version to guide you in these challenging times. TIMESTAMPS 2:08 — Why Yohay performs in English Yohay explains why English became the perfect language for his comedy, saying its structure naturally works better for punchlines than Hebrew. 14:26 — The Amsterdam cancellation Yohay recounts how his sold-out Amsterdam shows were canceled days before showtime after threats against the venue 18:20 — When boycotts backfire Yohay explains how protests and cancellations have often helped his career by bringing more publicity, support, and ticket sales. 28:06 — The fan who said his comedy saved her family Yohay recalls a fan sharing how his comedy helped her and her father through his cancer treatments 30:32 — His father’s Holocaust survivor upbringing Yohay reflects on his father’s painful childhood as the son of Auschwitz survivors — and how he chose to raise his own family with joy and laughter instead. 49:41 — The meaning of “Self-Loving Jew” Yohay explains why he named his previous tour Self-Loving Jew, framing it as a response to Jews who publicly criticized Israel after October 7th. This Episode’s Partner: Thank you honeymoonisrael.org/beingjewish More Ways To Connect with Being Jewish: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. To contact us & all things BJJP: Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Learn More About Yohay Sponder: Yohay Sponder Stand-Up and Appearances CREDITS: Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Sasha Nelson Production Intern: Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editors: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| She's Not Italian, She's Jewish! The Sopranos' Jamie-Lynn Sigler + What is Shavout?! | 19 mai 2026 | 01:12:15 | |
The Sopranos star Jamie-Lynn Sigler gets brutally honest about Judaism, fame, motherhood, and living with MS in one of her most personal interviews ever. In one of the podcast’s most open and deeply personal episodes so far Jamie-Lynn Sigler, best known for playing Meadow Soprano on The Sopranos, reflects on growing up Jewish on Long Island, navigating Hollywood at a young age, and finding strength in Jewish identity and community. The two discuss that advocacy doesn't have to be about conflict, but about just sharing your positive experiences with the world. She shares how a transformative Birthright Israel trip deepened her connection to Judaism and Israel especially through experiences in Jerusalem. Sigler also opens up about living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the emotional toll of hiding her diagnosis for years, and how finally speaking publicly changed her life. The conversation explores marriage, mental health, and the pressure to appear “perfect” while struggling privately. Jamie-Lynn talks about her new memoir, And So It Is: A Memoir of Acceptance and Hope, and her podcasts MeSsy with Christina Applegate and Not Today, PAL. Together, she and Jonah connect with each other on their vulnerability, Jewish pride, and the freedom that comes from finally being fully yourself. Plus, Rabbi David Ingbar returns to the podcast (Three-Timer!!!) to discuss the history and importance of the Jewish Holiday, Shavout. Topics discussed:
Mentioned in the episode: What Are the Five Books of Moses? HEBREW WORD OF THE WEEK —TIKUN And So It Is: A Memoir of Acceptance and Hope Multiple Sclerosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options Yad Vashem – The World Holocaust Remembrance Center Hollywood stars boycott Israeli film companies in response to Gaza crisis Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Lance Bass' whirlwind trip to Israel in photos Not Today, PAL with Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iler (Podcast) What Jamie-Lynn Sigler Wants You to Know About MS Who Is Jamie-Lynn Sigler’s Husband? All About Cutter Dykstra Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Hollywood to Holy Land: Screenwriter-turned-Orthodox Rabbi Shmuel Lynn | 15 mai 2026 | 00:26:56 | |
A Hollywood writer turned rabbi reveals the unbelievable true stories of Jewish survival history that they never taught in school. Host Jonah Platt reunites with Rabbi Shmuel Lynn, his former University of Pennsylvania Maimonides Leadership Program teacher, to discuss Lynn’s path from screenwriting (Duke, NYU Film School, LA) to Orthodox Jewish education and leading young adults. Lynn describes growing up amid antisemitism in Palm Beach, discovering observant Jews in Hollywood, and being drawn to meaningful Jewish history through a Holocaust writing job. He explains his focus on college and post-college Jews through Olami in Greenwich Village, emphasizing immersive, curated experiences and storytelling to create individual and generational change. Topics include:
Mentioned in the episode: Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Geoff McGee. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| “Bad Jews” (replay) & Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt | 12 mai 2026 | 01:03:13 | |
What happens when one of the world’s leading Holocaust scholars says today’s antisemitism feels frighteningly familiar? In this vital episode Holocaust historian and former U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Deborah Lipstadt discusses the dangerous surge and normalization of antisemitism worldwide, citing the incidents in London and the October 8, 2023 Sydney Opera House rally. Lipstadt argues antisemitism now operates as a “horseshoe” uniting extremes at the far right and left. She uses the analogy of an upside-down pyramid to illustrate the threat to Jews, democracy, and international security (including “utilitarian antisemitism” on PRC platforms). She compares today to the 1930s while noting key differences. She critiques university groupthink and campus failures at UCLA and Columbia to protect Jewish students. She describes her envoy work shifting from Abraham Accords, including global guidelines signed by 44 entities and a symposium with major tech platforms. She calls for unequivocal leadership, depoliticized action, education, and everyday speaking up. She emphasizes that there must be Jewish joy alongside fighting hate. Topics include:
Mentioned in the episode: The Tam Institute for Jewish Studies Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory A Conversation With U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Deborah Lipstadt Antisemitism being 'normalized' and not taken seriously enough, chief rabbi tells BBC Third arrest over attempted arson at synagogue Police investigate pro-Palestinian protest at Sydney Opera House over alleged anti-Semitism Marjorie Taylor Greene to resign from Congress amid clashes with Trump over Israel, Epstein Binyamin (Bibi) Netanyahu - Biography Code Pink Outs Itself as Anti-Jewish Hate Group Gunman Kills Three at Kansas City Jewish Community Center, Retirement Home UCLA can’t allow protesters to block Jewish students from campus, judge rules Met Police apologizes for 'openly Jewish' comment Charlie Hebdo attack: Three days of terror ‘Déjà Vu’: Remembering Hyper Cacher Five Years Later Report of the Yale Committee on Trust in Higher Education Venice Biennale previews in chaos, overshadowed by row over Israeli and Russian participation Leading Jewish Organizations Disturbed By Saudi Arabia’s Islamist Turn ‘Globalize the Intifada’: Meaning, Origins, and Why The Slogan Is a Call for Violence Emory Together: Countering Antisemitism // DC Organization of American States A Break in the Argentina Murder Case Tied to Iran Iran: Mahsa Amini's father accuses authorities of a cover-up Dutch ministers decry Israeli ministry’s report on Amsterdam violence Trump Is Right to Deport Hamas Supporters The Presidential Campaign That Changed American Politics The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Western Wall: The Western Wall Tunnels How Golda Meir Rose to Become the ‘Iron Lady’ of Israel Arab Terrorists Murder Israelis at Munich Olympics Natan Sharansky, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Advisory Board When They Come for Us, We'll Be Gone: The Epic Struggle to Save Soviet Jewry Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Epistemic Antisemitism and Black Conservative Influencer Xaviaer DuRousseau | 05 mai 2026 | 01:09:01 | |
From viral firestorms to death threats, this man isn’t backing down from the Israel conversation. Jonah Platt sits down with conservative activist Xaviaer DuRousseau, who describes his rapid shift from a Bernie-supporting, BLM-boosting young liberal to a professional Republican who appears on Fox News, visits the White House, and publicly supports Israel, including traveling to Gaza during the war. Xaviaer recounts growing up in Chicago and Central Illinois with Marxist family influences, becoming an activist, then researching BLM finances and concluding the movement was fraudulent, which led him to vote for Trump and face family accusations of white supremacy. He argues Bernie-to-Trump is a seamless anti-establishment pipeline, rejects widespread student-loan forgiveness as a solution, and says crime drives businesses and jobs out of black neighborhoods. Xaviaer credits a 2023 Shabbat dinner at PragerU and multiple Israel trips with deepening his connection to Jewish life, describing backlash, antisemitism, death threats, and filming humanitarian aid in Gaza to counter starvation claims. He criticizes anti-Israel voices across the left and right, advocates a black/Jewish alliance based on shared history, and discusses resentment, Marxism, and cultural lessons between the communities. Xaviaer presents his “hot takes” on most modern-day racism being against white people and asians, how he would be talking shit all day if he were jewish, and how “hood” black folks love Trump. Plus, Jonah explains why epistemic antisemitism, despite its subtlety and widespread normalization, is so terribly destructive. Topics Include:
Mentioned in the episode: Law Scholar Christine A. Littleton Epistemic Antisemitism: “Good People Gone Wild” David Schraub’s The Epistemic Center of Antisemitism Jonah’s take on Cognitive Bias Report on the Rise of Antisemitic Incidents in the U.S. Man Pleads Guilty for Displaying Nazi Flay at Pro-Palestine Rally Twitch streamer commenting on what “real antisemitism” is. Van Jones’s Statement Supporting the People of Iran Israeli’s Voice Dissent of War in Gaze Being Jewish Podcast Featuring Bishop Michael J. Fisher Respectfully, Xaviaer | PragerU He used to march for BLM. Now he’s calling for mass incarceration to save Black Americans Xaviaer’s Instagram Post on Visiting Gaza During the War The debate on Latino vs. Latinx vs. Hispanic is the song that never ends The Circle: TV’s Trashiest Reality Show We Can’t Stop Watching Xaviaer DuRousseau: PragerU Personality, Commentator, and Content Creator AP lands national scoop on a Black Lives Matter fraud investigation New Report Reveals Illicit Foreign Donations and Mass Resignations at ActBlue Here's How Bernie Sanders Explained Democratic Socialism Xaviaer’s Appearance on Dr. Phil Black Unemployment is Surging Under Donald Trump 5 of Kanye West’s Antisemitic Remarks, Explained BLEXIT, ‘Black Exit’ Foundation Now Powered By Turning Point USA Quotas are a diversity quick-fix, but companies must dig deeper Racism in the music industry 'is upfront and personal' K. Michelle Talks Double-Standard for Black Pop Singers Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, explained What to Expect at a Shabbat Dinner Myth: The Jewish people are white settler colonialists who have no connection to the land of Israel What Is the Correct Term for Someone Who Is Not Jewish? Yad Vashem – The World Holocaust Remembrance Center Horseshoe Theory in American Politics Who is Nick Fuentes and Why Is His Antisemitism Dangerous for America? Palestinian Elections, 15 Years and Counting Republicans are more likely than Democrats to see Israel as a US ally: AP-NORC poll Hasan Piker has said that “America deserved 9/11” (yes, that is a direct quote). Tucker Carlson’s Biggest Conspiracy Theory Yet Black Lives Matter Issues Statement Of Support For Free Palestine Movement Roy unveils immigration bill dubbed ‘MAMDANI Act’ Xaviaer Walk With Me Video on Chinese Heritage The Igbo, DNA, Struggle for Jewish souls We Were Never Lost Documentary The Strokes frontman says ‘privileged’ Zionists talk ‘like Black people during slavery’ We Have Our Eyes on Timothée Chalamet EsDeeKid ft. Timothée Chalamet - 4 Raws Remix (Official Music Video) Israel’s Deni Avdija finishes 3rd in vote for NBA’s Most Improved Player Why We Care About How Seth Rogen Went From Jewish Day School to Saying ‘WTF’ to Israel The Jewish Fam Behind Timberland Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associate: Rachel Stern, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Shopify President Harley Finkelstein & The Jews of Thessaloniki | 28 avr. 2026 | 01:16:38 | |
He's worth hundreds of millions, runs one of Canada's most powerful companies, and he still gets antisemitic replies every Friday when he posts “Shabbat Shalom,” here's why he refuses to stop. Shopify President Harley Finkelstein joins host Jonah Platt for a wide-ranging conversation about Jewish identity, antisemitism, entrepreneurship, and legacy. Finkelstein, a grandson of Holocaust survivors whose family fled Hungary during the Soviet crackdown of the 1950s, opens up about why he has grown increasingly vocal as a public Jewish figure in Canada, especially in the wake of October 7th. He recounts two pivotal incidents that motivated his public advocacy: protesters storming his Big Shot podcast recording at Startup Fest, and demonstrators disrupting his speech at the opening of the Finkelstein Chabad Center in Ottawa. He discusses his relationship with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Shopify's massive e-commerce footprint (14% of all U.S. e-commerce), and his journey from being one of Shopify's first 136 merchants to its president. He also digs into Big Shot, his podcast with David Siegel that archives the stories of legendary Jewish entrepreneurs, from Charles Bronfman to Jeffrey Katzenberg, arguing that grit is the defining trait behind Jewish entrepreneurial success. Plus, Jonah shares about his recent trip to Thessaloniki, Greece where he explored Jewish history. Topics:
A special thanks to our partner this week - Hadassah.org Donation Links: Synagogue of the Monasteriotes (Thessaloniki) The Jewish Community of Athens Mentioned in the episode: The Jews of Thessaloniki, a Once Great Jewish City Sephardic Jews in Eastern Europe and Greece The Route Saint Paul Followed In Greece The Cooking Accident that Decimated a Jewish Community of 70,000 Aristotle University Built on The Ruins of Jewish Cemeteries Jewish Federations’ National Young Leadership Cabinet Jonah Describes “The Jeremiah Effect” Ladino! Ron Eliran: Folk Songs for Sephardic Jews How September 11 Affected the U.S. Stock Market Harley Finkelstein weekly Shabbat Shalom post on X Harley Finkelstein’s Article: Canadian Jews are being targeted simply because they are Jewish Shopify President Makes Good on 18-Year-Old Promise to His Campus Rabbi The Right Honorable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau | Former Prime Minister of Canada Lindsay Taub (Harley Finkelstein’s spouse) Charles Bronfman: A Lifetime of Giving The Merchant Prince: The Man Behind The Gap, Old Navy, and J. Crew | Mickey Drexler Deni Avdija becomes 1st Israeli named to NBA All-Star Game Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| The KKK vs. Antizionism and Congressman Josh Gottheimer (Dem, NJ-5) | 21 avr. 2026 | 00:59:10 | |
In this timely episode, host Jonah Platt sits down with Josh Gottheimer, the five-term U.S. Congressman serving New Jersey’s Fifth District. Josh is a leading pro-Israel voice in the Democratic Party and Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus (which he co-founded). In Congress, Josh serves on two Committees, including the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, where he is the Ranking Member of the National Security Agency and Cyber Subcommittee and is a member of the Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture Subcommittee. Gottheimer shares candid insights on navigating politics while being Jewish. He discusses U.S. action against Iran, arguing Iran is a major threat but criticizing the administration for shifting objectives and failing to clearly explain goals, which fuels public skepticism and risks a drawn-out conflict affecting oil prices, markets, and regional stability. He rejects conditioning aid to Israel as unfairly targeting a key democratic ally and condemns the use of “apartheid” rhetoric. He describes a major rise in antisemitism, political incentives pushing members of Congress to retreat from support for Israel, and calls for coordinated Jewish-community investment in K–12 and campus education, accountability for institutions, and tougher political engagement. Plus, Jonah answers a podcast fan’s question on how to make anti-zionism taboo. Topics discussed include:
A special thanks to our partner this week Hadassah.org Mentioned in the episode: The Transformation of the KKK from Fraternity to Religious Extremists. 1924 Democratic National Conventions - “Klanbake” DNC Avoids Taking a Stance on Israel, AIPAC The Growing Antisemitism Among Young Americans Vanderbilt Professor Shaul Kelner The Timeline of the SPLC Case That Bankrupted the Klan Klan Members Murder Conviction Leads to Decline in Membership and Political Influence Rep. Josh Gottheimer: The New Jersey Democrat defending Israel, battling antisemitism National Security Agency & Cyber Subcommittee Gottheimer Votes to Pass War Powers Resolution By the numbers: US thrashed military targets in Iran, but some capabilities remain Iranian attack on Saudi base injures U.S. troops as more American forces arrive in the Middle East How the US Navy could blockade Iran’s ports and sweep mines from the Strait of Hormuz Israel didn’t drag the US into war with Iran — they enabled us to fight it smarter and faster U.S. Capture of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro: Considerations for Congress Oil prices rise on doubts US-Iran peace talks will ease Hormuz disruption The Abraham Accords, Explained Gottheimer Statement in Opposition to Conditioning Aid to Israel Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam & Sharia Law Are Incompatible with the U.S. Constitution Ayaan Hirsi Ali: 'Queers for Palestine' shows how stupid our society is Gottheimer, Foxx Introduce Bill to Hold Higher Education Accountable for Anti-Israel, BDS Activity Gottheimer calls Newsom’s Israel apartheid comments ‘dangerous’ Genocide, apartheid? A poll Israel cannot allow itself to ignore “The Squad” Doubles Down on Anti-Israel Comments Representative Elaine G. Luria Hasan Piker doubles down on Hamas support UPenn must comply with federal subpoena seeking list of Jewish community members, judge rules Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Should Jews Proselytize? & Dueling Rabbis PART 2 with Sharon Brous & David Ingber | 14 avr. 2026 | 01:17:57 | |
Host Jonah Platt moderates part two of a spirited conversation between Rabbi Sharon Brous (IKAR, Los Angeles) and Rabbi David Ingber (Romemu, New York) about how Jewish leaders should balance moral self-critique of Israel with addressing antisemitism, especially after October 7. Ingber argues progressive Jews and rabbis overemphasize public Jewish self-criticism, undercall out antisemitism and extremism from allies, and should name today’s anti-Zionism as an ever-evolving hate movement that erases Jewish self-determination. Brous defends the Jewish tradition of teshuvah and accountability, urges speaking against West Bank settler violence and occupation, and warns that labeling all criticism or Palestinian solidarity as antisemitic blunts the response to real threats. They also debate U.S. politics, liberal democracy’s role in Jewish safety, Jewish political “homelessness,” and the inclusion of anti-Zionist Jews. Ultimately, the conversation models a deeply Jewish tradition of debate, machloket l’shem shamayim, while emphasizing unity, responsibility, and the need to continue investing in community and the next generation.
Topics Include:
A special thanks to our partners on this episode: Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies Crown Family Philanthropies https://crownfamilyphilanthropies.org/ Jim Joseph Foundation https://jimjosephfoundation.org/ Mentioned In The Episode: The Converso: Jews converting to Christianity in Spain and Portugal in the 1300s Ruth: The First Jewish Convert How Many Jews Are In The World? Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation (U.S. Public Health Service) American’s Religious Engagement Stays Low Global “Wellness” Business Grows to $6.8 Trillion Jewish Prayers and Their Meanings Surveillance soldiers charge sexism a factor in their Oct. 7 warnings being ignored Who was Baruch Goldstein? Massacre in Hebron Silence is not solidarity: Diaspora Jews must speak when Israel strays Wave of settler attacks against Palestinian herders reported in central West Bank Fourth suspect arrested over Jewish charity ambulance arson attack The Importance of Tochachah-Rebuke Anti-Trump rallies hit thousands of US cities for 'No Kings' protest As A Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us Newsom ramps up his criticism of Israel, accuses Netanyahu of leading Trump into war with Iran Horseshoe Theory in American Politics The Z Word: Reclaiming Zionism Protocols of the Elders of Zion Venezuelan VP: US attack capturing Maduro has 'Zionist undertones' Renee Good was shot in the head, autopsy commissioned by her family finds Why watermelons are a symbol of Palestinian solidarity Israeli opposition members shout at Netanyahu as he tries to address parliament The Valley of Dry Bones and the Resurrection of the Dead -- Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) Executive Director Rachael Fried | 10 avr. 2026 | 00:30:48 | |
In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, host Jonah Platt sits down with Rachael Fried, the Executive Director of JQY (Jewish Queer Youth). Rachael shares her personal journey from being a closeted Orthodox participant to leading the organization, which now operates a professional center in New York's Times Square with a $2 million budget. JQY serves as a vital mental health nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 13–23) from "historically non-accepting communities," specifically those from Orthodox, Sephardi, Mizrahi, and Russian-speaking backgrounds. The discussion covers the critical safety risks facing these teens, including suicide and homelessness, and the creative "guerrilla marketing" JQY employs to reach youth in insular environments where internet access is restricted. Fried addresses the intersection of queer identity and Halakha (Jewish law), referencing Leviticus 18:22 and the principle of Elu v’Elu to advocate for the healthy coexistence of religious and queer identities. Finally, she highlights JQY’s national expansion through virtual drop-in centers, a mobile app, and a national Jewish queer book club. Topics Include:
Mentioned In The Episode: Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) Facebook LGBTQ+ Jewish Demographic Pew Stud Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| LIVE FROM SAN DIEGO! Rabbis Sharon Brous (IKAR) & David Ingber (Romemu/92NY) | 31 mars 2026 | 01:01:02 | |
At this live “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” event in San Diego, supported by Schusterman Family Philanthropies, Crown Family Philanthropies, and the Jim Joseph Foundation, Jonah Platt welcomes two influential spiritual leaders: Rabbi Sharon Brous, founding rabbi of IKAR in Los Angeles, and David Ingber, founding rabbi of Romemu in New York. Together, they explore how their egalitarian, non-denominational communities are reimagining synagogue life by emphasizing spiritual aliveness, engaging prayer, and social justice. Brous and Ingber speak candidly about the challenges of leading “big tent” communities in a deeply polarized time, where congregants often expect rabbis to mirror their views, and leave when they don't. Brous discusses transforming sermons into collective responsibility and action, while Ingber critiques what he calls a more consumer-driven performative Judaism, shaped by convenience rather than commitment. Drawing on experience from the Women’s March controversy through the aftermath of October 7th, they examine what it means to lead with integrity when every word carries weight. The conversation also grapples with enduring questions at the heart of Jewish life: the role of prayer, the tension between universal values and particular Jewish obligation, and the importance of humility and patience in leadership. Against the backdrop of rising antisemitism and growing political divisions around Israel and America, this episode looks at what Jewish leadership demands and what the Jewish community can become in this moment of urgency and change. This is Part One of a Two-Part conversation. In the episode, they discuss:
A special thanks to our partners on this episode: Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies Mentioned In The Episode: Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Webby Award BJJP: Religious Communicators Council Award: Best Audio Visual Program BJJP: 2025 W3 Award Winner: Best Podcast Host Brooklyn Yeshivas Circa 1937 Part I Women First Marched to Challenge Trump. Now They Are Challenging Each Other Judaism is About Love by Rabbi Shai Held What Did the People Hear at Mount Sinai? Gazing Into the Digital Face of Levinas: The Ethics of Self and Other in Cyberspace NYC bill allowing protest ‘buffer zones’ around houses of worship passes with veto-proof majority Zohran Mamdani has no opinion on a united Ireland. That matters more than you think Horseshoe Theory in American Politics American Jews May Be Moving Right Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| The Ms. Rachel Monologue & The 22-Hour Jew, Trans TV Writer Our Lady J | 24 mars 2026 | 01:16:53 | |
She converted to Judaism yesterday! Jonah Platt interviews transgender activist, Emmy-nominated TV writer-director (Transparent, American Horror Story, Pose), and musician Our Lady J (Yona Speidel), less than 24 hours after she formally converted to Judaism. She describes her 12-year path, the beit din with three rabbis, her written reflection on Isaiah 56 and intersex identity, her mikvah immersion, and why she chose the Hebrew name Yona. She recounts growing up in a Mennonite household, losing trust in organized religion amid homophobia during the AIDS crisis, and later returning to spirituality through Judaism. The conversation addresses unconscious antisemitism, queer-community susceptibility to “they” conspiracies, and rising antisemitism in LGBT spaces after October 7. She discusses BDS (The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement) pressure on Transparent, later learning German courts found BDS antisemitic, and argues for fact-based definitions of Zionism, while saying she is pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli. Topics discussed include:
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: MENTIONS Ms. Rachel draws ire over appeals for Gazan children Why Is Everyone Talking About Ms. Rachel Right Now? YouTube star Ms. Rachel should be investigated for spreading Hamas propaganda In the Sudan sick and starving children continue to waste away Violations against children have tripled in the Congo Russia’s kidnapping of Ukrainian children Iranian children killed by Iranian security forces in crackdown of protests 12 Israeli Druze children killed in Hezbollah rocket attack Lady J First day of Judaism post Our Lady J’s Film and TV Credits The Beit Din (Rabbinic Court) and Conversion ‘Transparent’ Writer Our Lady J: Hollywood ‘Needs to Put Stories Into the Hands of Trans People’ What is a eunuch in the Bible? Snapshots of an Epidemic: An HIV/AIDS Timeline Queer Jews Forced into a Different Closet: Antisemitism and Conditional Acceptance “Through Science to Justice”: The Story of Magnus Hirschfeld, a Gay Jewish Trailblazer Germany Declares: BDS is Antisemitic Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh, Mandana Dayani, and Matthew Nouriel BJJP Episode Jonah and the Whale - Bible Story Meaning The Holiday You’ve Never Heard Of: Why Shmini Atzeret Matters Why Are Grasshoppers (Locusts) Kosher for Some Jews? What’s So Wrong with Mixing Wool & Linen? Ask the Expert: Kosher Wine and Kosher Mevushal Wine Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Jonah Does CNN and KIND Founder Daniel Lubetzky | 17 mars 2026 | 01:10:30 | |
Jonah interviews Daniel Lubetzky, Mexican-American Jewish founder of KIND, Shark Tank investor, and longtime bridge-builder, about how his Holocaust-survivor father and Mexican Jewish upbringing shaped his commitment to connecting communities. Lubetzky describes mourning his father, saying Kaddish, and launching both KIND and the OneVoice Movement the same year, crediting prayer and purpose with keeping him grounded. He explains PeaceWorks, a trade-based social enterprise linking Israelis and Arabs (and later other conflict regions), which succeeded in sustaining relationships but never scaled and ultimately closed. He recounts OneVoice’s effort to empower moderates against media-driven extremism, mobilizing nearly a million Israelis and Palestinians, yet falling short of ending the conflict. Lubetzky outlines his latest project, the Builders Movement, and its “builders vs. destroyers” framework, its education, media, and civics work, and argues kindness is strong, honest action.
Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Mentioned In The Episode: Three synagogue attacks in Toronto in one week. Arrests made in Norway Synagogue attack San Jose pedestrians attacked in hate crime Police Arrest Suspect in Ramat Gan Stabbing Man, Rams Truck Into Michigan Synagogue With Over 100 Children Inside The Story Is with Exel Michaelson Al Jazeera Propagates Hatred. Is it also a Foreign Agent? Annapolis Peace Conference (2007)Kind Creates the Kind Foundation to Help Foster Kinder and Healthier Communities Save Your Relationships! How To Talk to Antizionist Loved Ones About Israel - Jonah Platt’s 5 C'sJewish Neighborhoods: Mexico City Mexican school merger will expand ORT’s presence in Latin America Jewish Nobel Prize LaureatesSebastian Maniscalco - Italians at Passover (Aren't You Embarrassed?)Red snapper with Veracruz-style sauce (huachinango a la Veracruzana)The Rise and Fall of Eliot Ness Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| On Location with Ethiopian-Jewish Chef and Restaurateur Beejhy Barhany | 10 mars 2026 | 01:00:57 | |
In this delectable episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah records on location in Harlem, New York, at Tsion Café, America’s only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant, for a conversation with owner and chef Beejhy Barhany about Ethiopian Jewish (Beta Israel) culture, food, and identity. Beejhy explains Tsion Café’s mission of bridge-building through vegan kosher cuisine and storytelling, and why she recently closed daily dining and now hosts only private events, due to years of anti-Zionist harassment, threats, and vandalism that intensified after October 7 and after becoming fully kosher. She discusses Harlem’s support, her meaning of “Zion,” and her belief that food can break barriers. Beejhy discusses Beta Israel’s unique history, questions of legitimacy, her family’s 1980–83 trek from Ethiopia to Israel, and experiences of discrimination and “conversion” pressures in Israel. Walking through the café, Beejhy shares the venue's legacy and culinary inspirations with Jonah. The two head into the kitchen to make samosas, discuss injera, dabo, spices, and her NY Times bestselling cookbook (Gursha). During the discussion, she describes founding the BINA (Beta Israel of North America) Cultural Foundation and raising her children with multifaceted identities. TOPICS INCLUDE:
Thank you to our sponsors and promotional partners: And a Special Thanks to our production partner on this episode: Jewish Broadcasting Services (JBS) Mentioned In The Episode: NYC’s only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant closes after anti-Zionist harassment: ‘So much animosity’ The Autobiography of Malcolm X: As Told to Alex Haley How This New York Restaurant Is Carrying on the Legacy of the Harlem Renaissance Art Tatum: A Talent Never to Be Duplicated The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jews and Their Journey to Israel Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook Injera: Ethiopia’s Traditional Bread in Pictures and Words Lost Tribes beer company resurrects ancient brews Beta Israel of North American Cultural Foundation Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| Is Israel an Ethnostate? And the 2026 Israeli Olympic Bobsled Team | 03 mars 2026 | 01:11:43 | |
In this inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with members of the Israeli Bobsled Team (AJ Edelman, Ward Fawarsy, Uri Zisman, Ower Katz, Itamar Shprinz, and Menashem Chen) while in competition in Milano Crotina, to discuss the unlikely journey of building a team for a Winter Olympic sport in a country with no snow. Representing Israel on the global stage, the athletes share how they transitioned from backgrounds in track and field, rugby, crossfit, and other sports into elite bobsled competitors. They discuss training and competing internationally, and navigating the challenges of representing Israel amid rising antisemitism following October 7. Their story is a wild one with robberies, getting booed, a death on a plane, and missing critical training runs. The conversation explores patriotism, Jewish pride, and the emotional weight of wearing the Israeli flag at global events sanctioned by the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF) and the Winter Olympics. The athletes reflect on the powerful symbolism of Israeli athletes competing on the world stage and the importance of positive representation for Israel in international sports. Jonah and AJ Edelman, captain of the Israeli Bobsled Team, get some one-on-one time to dig into the team's challenges and the role of the Israeli Olympic Committee. Edelman details self-funding, starting a nonprofit to support the team, and hopes to grow the program. Topics Discussed Include:
Mentioned In The Episode: Donate to the Israeli Bobsled Team Anti-Jew Libels DECONSTRUCTED-Jonah Platt Debunks 4 Lies About Israel & The Jewish People (Part 1) The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews: Part 1 PART 2 - The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews PART 3 - The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Israel is Among a Number of Ethnostates Myanmar casts minorities to the margins as citizenship law denies legal identity Myanmar Rohingya: What you need to know about the crisis UAE’s Double-Standard on Citizenship Rights Migrant Rights in UAE and Qatar Swiss government rejects automatic citizenship for those born in Switzerland Citizenship through Naturalization for Aliens of Greek ethnic origin Egypt's Christians face 'constant pressure to hide their faith' Israeli Law Declares the Country the ‘Nation-State of the Jewish People’ Arabs Make Up 20% of the Jewish Population Arab residents of mixed cities disadvantaged compared to Jews - Comptroller Ben Gvir’s policy goals: Going to extremes even Europe’s far right won’t touch Palestinian Authority: You're a "traitor" if you sell land to the Jews What does the Hamas charter say? Israel’s first Olympic bobsled team heads to Italy in bid they have dubbed ‘Shul Runnings’ The Israeli bobsled team is in last place but calls themselves 'victors' Kris Horn OK after solo ride as teammates fail to get into sled Bobsled costs are skyrocketing. Can the U.S. keep up in a bedrock Olympic sport? Israel team marches to smattering of boos at Milan Winter Olympics opening ceremony AJ Edelman, The First Orthodox Jewish Male Olympian, Is Ready For Gold! Meet Bat-El Gatterer, First Orthodox Jewish Female Olympian MIT Alumnus Competes in Winter Olympics From obese yeshivah student to Slider-Man – the remarkable run of Israel’s Olympic bobsleigh pilot What To Know About ‘Shul Runnings,’ the Bobsled Team Representing Israel in the Winter Olympics At the Olympics, Israel's athletes pay a high cost in the quest for gold The Israeli Bobsled Team’s Withdrawal from the last day of Olympic Competition Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine. Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||
| L’Dor V’adorable is Back! And American-Israeli Cookbook Author Adeena Sussman | 24 févr. 2026 | 01:02:03 | |
In this delicious episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with New York Times bestselling cookbook author and Tel Aviv-based food writer Adeena Sussman for a conversation about food, culture, and the rituals of living in Israel today. Living steps from the Carmel Market, Adeena paints a vivid portrait of daily life in Tel Aviv, how Israelis continue daily routines amid rocket alarms, and what it means to compartmentalize in a country where normalcy and uncertainty coexist. Adeena reflects on feeling like an insider-outsider as an “American Israeli,” and how the shuk itself mirrors Israel’s layered religious and cultural diversity. She shares how October 7 transformed her Shabbat cookbook tour into community-centered gatherings and fundraisers, and why she views cookbooks as narrative literature that provide cultural context. She also speaks candidly about her responsibility in culinary storytelling, documenting Yemenite, Iraqi, Moroccan, and broader Middle Eastern Jewish cuisines while crediting provenance and seeking permission for adaptations. Jonah and Adeena also explore her path to co-authoring cookbooks with a number of chefs and celebrities including Chrissy Teigen, her Substack (including a viral post after attending Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s funeral), and the personal accountability she feels towards readers who bring her recipes into their homes. The episode covers her family history and Shabbat hospitality, including her mother Steffi’s influence, and what makes food suitable for Shabbat. Adeena introduces her upcoming cookbook “Zuriz” (“quick”), a collection of 100 one-page recipes designed for real life. This conversation doesn’t just talk about food as sustenance, but as a means of storytelling and connection. Topics Include:
Links to Things Mentioned in the Episode: Trump moves closer to a major war with Iran The Electoral System in Israel Real-time red alerts in Israel Shielded by Fire: Middle East Air Defense During the June 2025 Israel-Iran War Food Network's New York City Wine & Food Festival Adeena Sussman: Came to Israel for love, stayed for food A Stain on Israel’s Soul: Remembering Hersh Goldberg-Polin and the Beautiful Six First Tango with Mango: Iraqi Amba Israeli produce is the best. Here’s why: Sisters fight cancer, honor mother by rolling out the dough Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: For Sponsorships, please email: Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine. Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb, YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt | |||