Explore every episode of the podcast JM in the AM: Interviews

Nachum interviewed Rabbi Yaniv Meirov, Director of Chazaq, about his new book on the Torah portion of the week: "Ohr Chazaq on the Parsha: Powerful Torah lessons for life."

From Feldheim:

Ohr Chazaq on the Parsha presents divrei Torah on the weekly parshah from Rabbi Yaniv Meirov, founder and CEO of CHAZAQ, an organization that has brought thousands of Jews closer to Torah and mitzvos. Drawing on the words of Chazal, the Rishonim, and the Acharonim, each piece offers clear, practical lessons arranged in an orderly and accessible format. Written in an engaging style for readers of every background, the sefer deepens understanding of the parshah while providing insights for personal growth.

Nachum was joined live in the studio by rabbinic legend Rabbi Dr. Leonard Matanky, former Co-President of the Religious Zionists of America (RZA), Senior Rabbi of Congregation K.I.N.S. of West Rogers Park and Dean of the Ida Crown Jewish Academy, for a discussion about Jewish life in Chicago, Ida Crown, Israel and more.

Nachum and Chicagoan Josh Zwelling discussed beloved Chicago Jewish community landmarks Emma's Bagel Cafe and Rosenblum's World of Judaica.

Nachum Segal hosted Rabbi Baruch Epstein, Director of Community Outreach for Chabad Lubavitch of Illinois and spiritual leader of Cong. Beis Menachem, on this morning's program to discuss the Chabad and express thanks for hosting Nachum for a great week of broadcasts from Chicago.

Nachum was joined by Staten Island community leader Mark Weiss to preview NY gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman's visit to the New Springville Jewish Center in Staten Island this Sunday. Everyone is invited to come out, speak with and learn more about Bruce as we get ready for the November 3rd election.

Nachum was joined by David Fishof, Founder/creator of Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp, to discuss his documentary film "The Bridge" and screenings in honor of October 7th.

Nachum welcomed Deva Schlass Zwelling, Dir of institutional Advancement, Ida Crown Jewish Academy, to the Chicago studio to discuss Ida Crown, Jewish living in Chicago and more.

Nachum hosted entrepreneurs Donny Mashiach & Ami Mashiach live in the Chicago studio this morning for an in-depth look at their entrepreneurial ventures including KosherStandZ, the kosher concession at the legendary Wrigley Field, Warrior Group, Apex Athletics and more.

Nachum was joined live in the studio by Rabbi Aharon Ungar to get his unique perspective on the upcoming Israeli election as a member of the new Hatzibur-Haharedi political party.

Nachum welcomed author/artist Jordan B. Gorfinkel, AKA Gorf, to this morning's program to discuss The Koren Magerman Tanakh Graphic Novel Bereshit Volume 1: The Beginning, Gorf's latest addition to his Koren graphic novel series.

Malcolm Hoenlein, representing Conference of Presidents of major American Jewish organizations, provides weekly updates from Jerusalem. Discussion covers Israel's significance during Sukkot, tourism boom, sacrifices for Israel, and strategic approach towards international relations. Insights include challenges of confronting anti-Israel sentiment, potential impact of Iran-China relations, and importance of collective action against anti-Semitism.

Nachum welcomed Rabbi Dovid Heber, Director of the STAR-K computer department and spiritual leader of Khal Ahavas Yisroel Tzemach Tzedek in Baltimore, back to JM in the AM for an entertaining and informative look at calendaric trivia in 5787 and beyond.

This morning's interview was generously sponsored by Kari and Joshua Levine of West Hempstead, NY in honor of their dear parents Roxana and Sheldon Rybak and Harriet and Allan Levine.

Nachum was joined by Malcolm Hoenlein, who called in live from Jerusalem, for the latest Weekly Update. They discussed a range of topics including upcoming rallies, impact of political trends on Jewish community, and global alliances. Insights include the importance of coalition-building, combating anti-Semitism, and navigating complex international relations. Notable stories include discussions around the upcoming Israeli elections, developments in the Middle East, and the significance of unity within the Jewish community.

In advance of Israel's elections on October 27th, Nachum Segal welcomed Ziva Glanz, CEO of the Sha’ar Group, Founder of LaShuv, and #4 on Israel's new Hatzibur-Haharedi party list, to this morning's JM in the AM for an in-depth look at HaTzibur Haharedi and how their unique approach to the Charedi community aims to be a game-changer in Israeli politics.

Nachum welcomed The Sukkah Shadchan, Avi "Doc" Weiss, to the program to talk about his important work of getting sukkot to those in need for the holiday. If you need a Sukkah or have a Sukkah that you don't need and are looking to pass it along to someone who could really use it for the holiday reach out today!

You can visit the website: The Sukkah Shadchan

Or call: 929-447-7333

In advance of the upcoming Succot holiday, Nachum Segal hosted Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin, Founder and Director of The Biblical Museum of Natural History, to discuss a number of timely issues including Succot, Elephants, the Biblical Museum as a great destination for Chol HaMoed trips in Israel (as well as year-round), Israel-centric animals and more.

Nachum welcomed Yishai Fleisher, International Spokesperson for the Jewish Community of Hebron, back to JM in the AM to discuss a number of timely issues including Yishai's being placed at No. 12 on Otzma Yehudit’s Knesset slate ahead of the upcoming elections, celebrating Rosh Hashanah on The Temple Mount and much more.

Nachum hosted SJ Tannenbaum, Founder and CEO of SidelineSuits Media, live in the studio during this morning's program for a great discussion about broadcasting, YU sports, prime spots in Teaneck for Yom Kippur services and more.

Nachum and Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg, Director of the Yeshivah of Flatbush William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute, previewed this week's edition of Israel @ 78 which will focus on a speech from the book of Yonah in advance of Yom Kippur,

Nachum welcomed long time friend and JM in the AM family member Mark Zomick to this morning's JM in the AM in honor of JM in the AM's 43rd Anniversary. As one of the two people who was with Nachum from the very beginning, along with Mattes Weingast, Mark was able to share a unique perspective on this amazing Jewish radio institution. The conversation delved into the unique presence and impact of the show, as well as the necessity to adapt to modern media consumption trends. They shared personal anecdotes, discussed listener engagement, and much more. Happy Anniversary to Nachum and JM in the AM!

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

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

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

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

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

From ArtScroll.com:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the OMB site:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They covered several important topics including:

• Growth in the field of Jewish education today.

• Opportunities for people interested in pursuing these careers.

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

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

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

• How to teach young children about the Holocaust.

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

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

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

From ArtScroll.com:

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

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

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

Among the remarkable stories you'll encounter:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Click Here to visit Misaskim

• Click Here to visit the Sukkah Shadchan and find out how to give or receive a sukkah in time for Sukkot this year. You can also call: 929-447-7333

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

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

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

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

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