Episodes

4d ago

Can we change the world with just ONE dollar? In this inspiring episode of '30 Minute Mensches,' Jonah talks to Dr. Jonathan Donath, founder and president of Daily Giving, the grassroots online platform that has turned daily donations of just $1 into almost $27 million distributed to over 75 Jewish causes worldwide. Dr. Donath shares the epiphany that led him to start Daily Giving, the importance of working the daily giving “muscle”, and the organization’s growth journey. A true mensch, Dr. Donath’s appeal will have you racing to sign up so that you too can feel the joy of philanthropy, unity, and the transformative power of giving. Discussed topics include: The Near Death Experience of a Rabbi that Inspired Daily Giving The Big Impact of Many Small Mitzvahs Stories of Daily Giving’s Work Mel Robbins and Why Immediate Action is Important Chasing Balance in Life Comedian Elon Gold’s Viral Moment for Daily Giving Nonprofit Operational Challenges and Growth Who Are Some Partner Organizations (75+) and Why A big thank you to Daily Giving MENTIONS Joint Effort Chiropractic Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy Rabbi Alon Anava and His Near Death Experience Elon Gold Daily Giving Promo Daily Giving Beneficiary Organizations Mel Robbins on taking action Magen David Adom United Hatzalah Chai Lifeline Ohel One Mitzvah a Day JFNA Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, 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

6d ago

It’s Hanukkah! In this cozy episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah is joined by culinary expert, social media darling, and New York Times -bestselling cookbook author Jake Cohen for a conversation about Jewish food, ritual, and the unifying power of gathering around the table. Known for zhuzhing up traditional Jewish cuisine with a distinctly modern yet reverent flair, Jake reflects on how food has become his spiritual practice and creative outlet for expressing Jewish identity. Jake shares how hosting Shabbat dinners became his primary avenue to building community and all the celebrity pals he has welcomed to his table, from Benny Blanco to Shoshana Bean to Katie Couric to Isaac Mizrahi. He opens up about his journey from being a self-described “High Holiday Jew” to becoming a leading voice in contemporary Jewish food culture, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, hospitality, and incorporating Jewish values into everyday life. The conversation also touches on Jake’s three best-selling cookbooks — Jew-ish, I Could Nosh and Dinner Party Animal — which aim to make Jewish cooking accessible, joyful, and inviting to Jews and non-Jews alike. Jonah and Jake explore the intersection of Jewish and queer identity, the importance of inviting dissenting opinions to your dinner table, how to host an epic dinner party, and Jake’s hopes for a more connected and peaceful future. It’s an episode filled with comfort, laughter, and the unmistakable warmth of Hanukkah. A special thank you to this episode’s sponsor: American Friends of the Hebrew University and the podcast The View From Mount Scopus MENTIONS Dinner Party Animal: Recipes to Make Every Day a Celebration Jake Cohen Instagram Jake Cohen Tiktok Jake Cohen Website The Seleucide Empire Hanukkah Antisemitism vs. Purim Antisemitism Hellenism and Judaism The Surprising Origin of The Dreidel Jonah @ The Big Shabbat The Temple Emanu-El Streicker Center The Big Shabbat Joan Nathan Adeena Sussman Ethiopian Jewish Chef and Restaurateur Beejhy Barhany on Her New Cookbook, “Gursha” Tsion Cafe Jew-Ish: A Cookbook Jake Cohen Saveur Articles Nanny’s Rosh Hashanah Apple Cake OneTable Murray’s Cheese Evan Ross Katz Adam Eli Tokin’ Jew Lemon Sumac x Jake Cohen Quick Challah Recipe Demo in Under 1 Minute! “The Nanny” Is the Kind of Celebratory, Unabashed Representation Jewish Women Deserve Watch Curb Your Enthusiasm I Could Nosh: Classic Jew-ish Recipes Revamped for Every Day―Modern Jewish Recipes for Everyday Noshing Left Behind – A Project Opening up Little-Known Holocaust Histories as well as New Tools Jews of Liège under the Occupation (1940-1944) Jake Cohen and Benny Blanco bagel Instagram post Curb Your Enthusiasm “Bad Middling” Scene These New Yorkers were in Israel when the war with Iran began. Here’s how they made it home. Which three celebrities are living together in New York? Alex Edelman Benj Pasek Shoshana Bean Judy Gold Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, 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

Dec 9

In this thought-provoking episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah sits down with world-renowned philosopher, author, and war correspondent Bernard-Henri Lévy (known as BHL) for an insightful conversation about the meaning of Jewish solidarity after October 7th and the collapse of moral reasoning in the West. Drawing on five decades spent on the frontlines of conflicts from Bosnia to Bangladesh, Lévy reflects on the role of the witness, the fragility of democracy, and the shattering implications of October 7th. From Hamas to ISIS, Sudan to Ukraine, BHL draws sharp parallels between the world’s genocidal movements and the West’s habit of resisting them “just enough to help the victims survive, but never enough to let them win.” Together, Jonah and BHL explore the central arguments of his new book, Israel Alone : Israel’s unprecedented isolation, the return of antisemitism dressed in the language of antizionism, and the collapse of ethical reasoning on university campuses and in public life. BHL speaks candidly about why jihadist groups must be militarily defeated, how antisemitism differs from other forms of racism, the challenges of Jewish life in France, and why Israel’s democracy remains a modern miracle, despite being tested by decades of war. In the episode they discuss: Iranian Missile Attacks and Global Reactions The Necessity of Defeating Hamas The Defeat of Al Qaeda and Isis BHL’s time in Afghanistan and Rwanda The Resilience of Israeli Society Diverse Communities in Israel Understanding Antisemitism Antizionism as the Only “Acceptable” Form of Modern Antisemitic The Role of Hate in Human History Criticism vs. Antisemitism Sudan's Genocide and Racist War #BernardHenriLevy #BHL #JonahPlatt #BeingJewishPodcast #IsraelAlone #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #October7 #MoralClarity #Philosophy #HumanRights #Israel #JewishPeople Thank you to this episodes sponsor, The Dream Raffle. https://thedreamraffle.com/ Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned In The Episode: Bernard-Henri Levy Instagram Bernard-Henri Levy YouTube Bernard-Henri Levy Facebook Bernard-Henri Lévy Israel Alone The Genius of Judaism The Bloodlands of Africa - by Bernard-Henri Lévy ‘A very bad year’: Despite Gaza truce, academic boycotts pile on, threatening Israel’s future Flare-Burning Protesters Disrupt Israel Philharmonic Concert in Paris, Four Arrested US helps defend Israel from Iranian missile attack France says it intercepted drones targeting Israel during Iran war Israel: A Democracy Like No Other in the Middle East Myth: Israel is an “apartheid state.” Hamas Is Weakened But Not Defeated — The Truth Behind Gaza’s Ceasefire Al Qaeda: Background, Current Status, and U.S. Policy Iraqi Forces Liberate Mosul From ISIS How Qatar became Trump’s key ally in his Middle East peace efforts Antisemitism in America: My Campus Tour Bernard-Henri Lévi tweet from Hostage Square The 6-Day War Algerian War Weimar Republic Kings (Melachim) In France, Bernard-Henri Lévy fights a lonely battle on behalf of a solitary Israel Rwanda genocide of 1994 Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish

Dec 4

Jonah hosts an insightful conversation with Israeli-American Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern, a Harvard-affiliated clinical psychologist and renowned trauma expert, about her experiences growing up in Israel during times of conflict and how they shaped her career in trauma and mental health. She explains her groundbreaking work on the concept of 'traumatic invalidation' in the Jewish community after October 7th, and the importance of recognizing and addressing this community trauma on an individual level. They discuss her shift to advocacy post-October 7th, and her role with Parents for Peace, a non-profit aimed at radicalization prevention. The episode highlights the crucial need of better mental health support, both for the Jewish community and the wider population, as a means to prevent radicalization, combat hatred, and foster resilience. It provides insights on how to effectively fight hate and radicalization through a combination of education, psychological understanding, and policy change. In the episode they discuss: Dr. Miri Bar Halpern’s Israeli childhood during the Gulf War and Second Intifada Her Personal Journey with Inherited Trauma Her Groundbreaking Article on “Traumatic Invalidation” in the Jewish Community Combating Radicalization with Parents for Peace Our Stories Matter Podcast Anti-Jew Hate as the Common Denominator in Radicalization Prevention and Intervention techniques Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned in the episode: Miri Bar-Halpern Instagram Dr. Bar Halpern Website Traumatic Invalidation Research Article (co-authored by Dr. Bar-Halpern) Jonah on “Our Stories Matter” Podcast Parents for Peace What is the second intifada? What are epigenetics? Criteria of Traumatic Invalidation Dr. Marsha Linehan Melanie Harned Martin Bohus Massachusetts Teachers Association's (MTA) Anti-Israel, Anti-Jewish Resources Remain. Head of Parents for Peace Myrieme Churchill Nearly 40% of Jewish Medical Professional Report Exposure to Antisemitism Trauma Informed Learning Alliance Yasmine Mohammed Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, 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

Dec 2

In this landmark 50th episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah celebrates the milestone with his wife, Courtney Ann Platt (Glee, So You Think You Can Dance, Rock of Ages) , the world-class dancer, television star, and multiple sclerosis advocate whose journey into Judaism has become a defining part of the traditions and values in their home. From growing up Italian Catholic in New York to becoming a Jewish mother raising three young Platts, Courtney opens up about the turning points that reshaped her life. With humor and candor, Courtney and Jonah revisit the early days of their relationship, the emotional path of Courtney’s Orthodox conversion, and their commitment to blending two traditions under one roof, from negotiating Christmas celebrations to creating a home where Jewish values are woven into everyday life. Courtney also reflects on motherhood, the visceral awakening she felt after October 7th, and how becoming part of the Jewish people changed her understanding of community, resilience, and responsibility. The conversation touches on spirituality, loss, MS, and what it means to both choose and defend your identity. This milestone episode is a celebration of love, tradition, and the family Courney and Jonah have built together. It’s an intimate look at what it means to choose Judaism, and to choose each other. Other Topics Include: The Story of How Jonah and Courtney Met Doing HAIR at the Hollywood Bowl Jonah and Courtney’s First Date & First “I Love You” How and When to Bring Up “The Conversion Convo” Conversion to Judaism: The Process and Challenges Protecting Jewish Identity Post-October 7th Jewish Day School vs. Hebrew School How Jonah Learned to Love Christmas! How Grief Affects Our Faith in God The Losses of Courtney’s SYTYCD brothers, Stephen “Twitch” Boss & Joshua Allen Courtney’s Life with MS (multiple sclerosis) Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned In The Episode: Courtney Ann Platt Instagram Unstoppable: How Professional Dancer Courtney Platt Has Redefined Success While Navigating Society With Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis Glee (Disney+) Hit the Floor (Apple TV) Rock of Ages (Apple TV) Camp Rock Two (Disney+) Adam Shankman L.A. Theater Review: ‘Hair’ at the Hollywood Bowl Angelini Osteria & Alimentari Camp Ramah in California Vatican City The Rich History of Mall Santas What Happens on the Day of Conversion Knicks City Dancers So You Think You Can Dance (Prime Video) Why Bat Mitzvahs (and other parties) need a dance motivator BJJP Tiffany Haddish What Is Rosh Hashanah Ohr Torah Stone The Mikvah What is Niddah? Why do Jewish Women Wear Wigs? Tattooing in Jewish Law The Blessing of Unplugging Why Fast on Yom Kippur? Why do we Wear a Kippah? October 13, 2024 “Day of Jihad” Being Jewish: Together Mosaic Shabbat Honeymoon Israel Joshua Allen, ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ season 4 winner, dies in train accident Remembering Marc Becker What is Kavanah ? Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, 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

Nov 25

It’s Turkey Time! In this warm and wonderfully flavorful Thanksgiving episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah sits down with Duff Goldman — celebrity pastry chef, bestselling cookbook author, Food Network Icon, and beloved host of shows like Ace of Cakes, Kids Baking Championship, Buddy vs. Duff, and Duff’s Happy Fun Bake Time. Together, they dig into the stories and traditions that shaped Duff’s life long before he became America’s favorite baker. Duff opens up about his personal experiences with anti-Jew bigotry in New England, and how that deepened his connection to Jewish culture, family, and food. They discuss the joys and challenges of Duff’s professional achievements as a master baker, from mentoring young bakers on television to navigating the pressure of high-profile baking competitions. Duff also discusses his upcoming venture — Duff's Deli and Market, opening soon in the Atlanta airport — and his philosophy on food, tradition, and community. Duff shares heartfelt reflections on his recovery from a devastating car accident, and his commitment to tzedakah This episode is a celebration of resilience, tradition, and the Jewish roots behind Duff’s irresistible warmth and artistry. It’s a perfect blend of heart, humor, and holiday spirit. Topics Include: Duff’s love of “Tzedakah”, the Jewish value of Charity Duff’s multicultural Passover Seders & Thanksgiving Dinners Kids Baking Championship Insights The Birth of the iconic Charm City Cakes Jewish-Themed Cakes and Duff's Deli Thanksgiving Traditions and Family This episode is supported by The Dream Raffle . Win a Jerusalem dream home! Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned In The Episode: Duff Goldman Instagram Duff Goldman Youtube Duff Goldman “Tzedakah” Page Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza by Peter Beinart Inside the Tunnels of Gaza The Story of Purim When Jon Stewart and Peter Beinart Threw Isreal Under the Bus Save A Child’s Heart Jacqueline Winch (Duff Goldman’s Artist Mom) Here’s Who Won the Food Network’s First Ever Hanukkah Cooking Challenge Duff Goldman Injured in Crash Allegedly Caused by Drunk Driver Kids Baking Championship (Hulu) Charm City Cakes Ace of Cakes Duff’s Favorite Spots “Best Things I Ever Ate” Edmart Deli Closed Foie Grock's Chefs Bruce Kalman & Duff Goldman (YouTube) Silver Yad Duff’s Deli and Market - Atlanta Japan's ancient art of taiko drumming Japanese Koto Manzanar War Relocation Center Michael Voltaggio Duff’s Food on Goldbelly Michael Cimarusti Russ and Daughters Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, 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

Nov 20

In this uplifting episode, Jonah speaks with Jean-Claude Nkulikiyimfura, the Executive Director of the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village (ASYV) in Rwanda. ASYV was founded to support orphans of the Rwandan genocide, providing a holistic education model rooted in Jewish principles like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Tikkun Ha Lev (repairing the heart). Jonah has a personal connection, having volunteered there soon after college. Jean-Claude (JC) and Jonah discuss the Youth Village's success in preparing students for adulthood, which a recent Tulane University study highlights with impressive outcomes, including high rates of college placement and employment. The conversation covers impactful initiatives like the Inheritance Theater Project, which empowers young women, and the broader context of societal healing in post-genocide Rwanda. Jean-Claude also shares his personal experience as a refugee and details the future vision of ASYV, including the "Anything is Possible" campaign aimed at sustaining and expanding their vital mission. The conversation covers: The Founding and Mission of Aga Shalom Youth Village Welcoming the Executive Director: Jean Claude's Journey Jewish Principles and the Vision for A SYV The Impact of A SYV: Programs and Success Stories Tulane University Study: Proving the Concept Scaling Deep: The Future of ASYV Gender Equity and the Inheritance Theater Project Rwanda's Transformation: From Genocide to Progress The Anything is Possible Campaign Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned In The Episode: JC socials: Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village Instagram JC Linkedin Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village Facebook Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village The Anything is Possible Campaign at ASYV Jewish Principle Tikkun Olam Ann Heyman, Founder of Agahzo-Shalom Yemen Alt Youth Service Dr. Chaim Peri ASYV Study with Tulane University Scaling Deep Bates College 1994 Rwanda Genocide Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, 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

Nov 18

In this spirited and emotional episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Broadway legend Seth Rudetsky — actor, pianist, musical director, SiriusXM host (Seth’s Big Fat Broadway, Seth Speaks), comedy writer, and tireless advocate — joins Jonah for an honest conversation about the deep history of Jewish contributions to Broadway. They discuss the rise of anti-Jewish and anti-Israel sentiment in the arts world, and the creations of the Jewish Broadway Alliance, a grassroots effort Seth launched in the wake of October 7th. Drawing from decades on stage and behind the piano, Seth opens up about the challenges of Jewish advocacy, the shock of Broadway’s silence that drove him to speak up, and the emotional weight of organizing initiatives like the Broadway-hosted hostage video and Broadway Shabbat. Seth and Jonah also delve into the highlights from Rudetsky's extraordinary career — from hosting Stars in the House during the COVID-19 pandemic to his concerts for social justice causes — and his dream of creating new educational content celebrating Jewish history through music. This conversation is a celebration of Jewish creativity and the deep-rooted bond between Jewish artists and the Broadway stage. And if you listen through to the end, you’ll find a special surprise that captures the spirit, heart, and joy that Seth brings to every room he enters. The Importance of Jewish Influence on Broadway Introducing the Special Episode and Guest Seth Advocacy and Jewish Identity The Impact of October 7th on Seth Forming the Jewish Broadway Alliance Challenges and Support in the Broadway Community Broadway Shabbat and Jewish Joy Concerts and Fundraising for Social Justice Stars in the House: A COVID-Time Initiative Cameron Crowe's Scaled-Down Broadway Production Supporting a One-Man Show: Ariel Stachel's Story Jewish Upbringing and Summer Camp Memories Five Deep Questions with Seth Rudetsky Grand Finale: A Musical Performance This episode is supported by Berkeley Mosha , a Jewish co-housing community in California. Mentioned: Seth Rudetsky Instagram Seth Rudetsky Career Jewish Broadway Alliance YouTube SiriusXM On Broadway Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Cruise Entertainment Community Fund Seth’s Posts after October 7th Broadway community “Bring Them Home” song for the Hostages Broadway for Orlando “What the World Needs Now” Broadway for Biden/Harris Inauguration Black Theater United Stars in the House YouTube Jack Plotnick Shabbat on Broadway Amanda Lipitz Julie Benko Sings “Tomorrow” - Hanukkah on Broadway Everything’s Coming Up Moses by Rachel Shukert: A Biblical Fable based on GYPSY United Voices For Change AJC: 5 Facts About Jewish Connection to Israel Zionism has become a 'bad' word. It is anything but. Jewish Broadway Alliance with Roz Rothstein Jewish Broadway Alliance with Ritchie Torres Defining Antizionism Dreamgirls Reunion (Stars In The House) Congregation Beit Simchat Torah Help is on the Way - David Friedman Concert for America Cornell Brooks Grey’s Anatomy on Stars In The House 30 Rock Special Stars In The House Maui Wildfires of 2023 Stars in the House Offers Avenue Q Sing Through August 24 to Raise Funds for Hawaii Wildfire Victims Ari’el Stachel Ari’el Stachel’s play, Other Ariel Stachel videos about Jewish identity Camp Hillel USDAN Summer Camp Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand Varla Jean Merman’s Stonewall Birthright Israel People Moving Back to Kibbutz Nir Oz Dr. Noam Wiesman on Being Jewish Van Jones on Being Jewish Neshama App What I’ve Learnt Podcast Trybal Gatherings Magen David Adom Testigos Del Terror Leah Soibel on Being Jewish Fuente Latina_ BBYO Mountain Region The Big Shabbat Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish

Nov 11

In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Academy Award-nominated producer Lawrence Bender — the creative producing force behind Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting, Reservoir Dogs, An Inconvenient Truth and Inglorious Basterds — Joins Jonah for a candid conversation about the film industry’s reckoning after October 7th and the moral weight of telling real stories in the aftermath of tragedy. Bender’s latest project, Paramount+ miniseries Red Alert, dramatizes the true stories of horror, heroism, and hope that took place on October 7th, 2023, the darkest chapter in Israel’s history. Bender shares what drew him to the series — from his deep personal connection with Israel, to his collaboration with Israeli production company Keshet, to the emotional and logistical challenges of bringing real stories to screen amid an ongoing conflict. He opens up about the silence he witnessed from Hollywood and his peers in the aftermath of October 7th, and reflects on how his Jewish identity has shaped his life and career. This episode is both an exploration on the power of art and a call to conscience, illuminating how filmmakers like Bender use their craft to bear witness, challenge complacency, and re-humanize the media headlines that shape our world. In the episode they discuss: From civil engineer to dancer to Hollywood mega-producer Growing up in Antisemitic America The Impact of October 7th and the Birth of Red Alert Lawrence's Meeting with Former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres Meeting the Real Heroes of Red Alert Being Quentin Tarantino’s Partner & Inglorious Bastards The Challenges of Filming in During a War Selling an Israel-focused Series in Today’s Anti-Israel Hollywood Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned In The Episode: Lawrence Bender On Instagram Red Alert on Paramount Plus Keshet Israel Policy Forum Abu Mazin (Mahmoud Abbas) Believes in a Two State Solution and Opposes Violence Joc Pederson (Former Dodger) Domantas Sobonis (King’s Basketball Player) Jackie Thon on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Duffy Diggs Hosni Mubarak Boaz Yakin Two Distant Strangers - Best Live-Action Short Oscar-Winner Cops and Robbers short film Jordana Reuben Yecheil Oct 7 billboards Lior Chefetz The Stronghold Oct. 7 series ‘Red Alert’ a harrowing global reminder of what unfolded in Hamas massacre Rocket Alerts from Gaza The Gay Parade in Israel Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum Ohad Yahalomi Ziv Koren Actors and directors pledge not to work with Israeli film groups ‘implicated in genocide’ Skip Brittenham Obituary David Ellison Brings New Direction to Paramount Shimon Peres Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, 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

Nov 4

In this special Election Day episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Emmy Award–winning journalist Jake Tapper joins Jonah for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on politics, identity, and truth-telling in a polarized world. Best known as the anchor of CNN’s The Lead with Jake Tapper and State of the Union , Jake reflects on his decades covering America’s most defining political moments — from the Virginia governor’s race to the New York City mayoral election — and how journalism has evolved in an era of social media outrage and political echo chambers. Together, Jonah and Jake explore the intersections of Jewish identity, antisemitism — past and present — and the evolving challenges of journalistic integrity in today’s press environment. Jake also opens up about his writing process and his latest books — Race Against Terror, which follows the pursuit of an Al-Qaeda killer, and Original Sin, his political thriller about a presidential cover-up during the 2024 election. This episode is a deep dive into the ethics of journalism, the responsibility of storytelling, and what it means to stay empathetic and informed in turbulent times. It’s a timely, thought-provoking listen for anyone who cares about democracy, truth, and the power of Jewish values in public discourse. Topics covered include: Discussing Key Political Races The Democratic and Republican Parties Concerns Within the Jewish Community Antisemitism in Politics Personal Experiences with Antisemitism Challenges in Media Reporting Jake Tapper's Jewish Identity Jewish High School Experiences Jewish Summer Camp Memories Interfaith Marriages and Family Traditions Writing About Joe Biden Race Against Terror: A New Book Five Deep Questions with Jake Tapper Sponsors Sponsored by Berkeley Moshav https://www.berkeleymoshav.org/ Please support the podcast and become a member (join the Kahillah) to get exclusive benefits. https://beingjewishpodcast.com/community Mentioned in the Episode: Understanding The Tower of Babel Sodom and Gomorrah; The Cities Destroyed by God What Really Happened at Mount Sinai Bullsh*t Behavior & Central Synagogue's Rabbi Angela Buchdahl Buchdahl Has Faced Criticism for Declining to Sign a Rabbinic Letter Condemning the Mayoral Candidate. Increase in Jewish Hate Jewish Population Changes Race Against Terror: Chasing an Al Qaeda Killer at the Dawn of the Forever War by Jake Tapper Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson Jake Tapper Instagram Jake Tapper X The Lead with Jake Tapper Key Early Elections The Danger of Zohran Mamdani What Does “Globalize the Intifada” Mean and How Can it Lead to Targeting Jews with Violence? The Overton Window The Lynching of Leo Frank Dana Bash BJJP Ep Sheryl Sandberg BJJP Ep Protests at Jake Tapper’s Home Hamas Weaponizes Sexual Assault in GAZA Adi Vital-Kaploun, killed on October 7th, 2023 NY Times Admits to Relying Too Heavily on Hamas Reporting News outlets’ erroneous “14,000 babies” claim Watch the 2024 Presidential Debate Inside the Trump Family’s Global Crypto Cash Machine Who is Spin Ghul? United States vs Ahmed Ghailani Call Your Mother Deli Rabbi Solomon ibn Gabirol Selected Religious Poems Of Solomon Ibn Gabirol Translated Into English Verse By Israel Zangwill Benjamin Franklin Bache Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish

Oct 30

Ami Kozak is redefining what Jewish comedy and commentary look like in 2025 — blending sharp impressions, fearless satire, and moral clarity in a time of chaos. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches , Jonah sits down with Ami — modern Orthodox comedian, musician, and host of the podcast Ami’s House — to talk about how his Jewish faith and sense of moral clarity shaped his response to anti-Jew bigotry and misinformation after October 7. Ami shares: How growing up modern Orthodox shaped his Jewish identity and worldview Why October 7 changed his purpose as a performer — turning laughter into a vehicle for truth Why he chose to have civil conversations with controversial figures like Candace Owens and Dave Smith — and what those exchanges taught him about engaging bad ideas in good faith The dangers of moral relativism, false “experts,” and the growing misuse of words like “genocide” What he calls “goosebumps with clarity” — balancing empathy with uncompromising honesty His creative process for impressions of President Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, and Zohran Mamdani — and how humor can cut through disinformation From synagogue to stage, from serious debate to satire, Ami Kozak proves that comedy can do more than make people laugh — it can make them think. Hashtags: #AmiKozak #BeingJewish #30MinuteMensches #JewishComedy #ModernOrthodox #Israel #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #FreeSpeech #JewishHumor #MoralClarity Mentioned In The Episode: Ami Kozak Instagram Ami Kozak X Ami Kozak Facebook Ami Kozak YouTube Ami’s House (podcast) Yahud Your Hebrew word for the day: MAMAD Human Rights Council members who abuse human rights What is Tikkun Olam? J-Sketch YouTube Alex Edelman The Karate Kid Alan Dershowitz Hasbara Norman Finkelstein vs Alan Dershowitz On Israel-Palestine War With Piers Morgan | The Full Debate Douglas Murrey Tucker Carlson Wedding Vows Skit Zohran Mamdani Kristallnacht The Second Intifada 2000 Ami Kozak’s Band “Distant Cousins” Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, 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

Oct 28

BEING JEWISH goes live! In our first ever East Coast live pod at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia , Jonah Platt welcomes two unique voices, Sarah Podemski and Lani Anpo, who share insights into their dual heritage as both Jewish and First Nation/Native American. Sarah is a Canadian actress, best known for her supporting role as Rita in the hit FX television series Reservation Dogs. Lani is a multi-tribal Native American Jewish advocate and educator, who uses her social media platform to champion the rights of hers and other marginalized groups. Their conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the significance of Jewish and Native cultural practices, the challenges of acceptance within respective communities, and the similarities between the two indigenous groups. Sarah and Lani share personal stories about their mixed heritage and the impact on their identities, both facing and overcoming external skepticism. The episode also delves into historical contexts such as the impact of blood quantum laws and the diaspora experience, and examines how these factors shape both modern-day struggles and triumphs. Sarah and Lani offer thoughtful reflections on the importance of community engagement, cultural preservation, and the struggle for sovereignty, especially for Native American and First Nation tribes. This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience and rich cultural histories of these two unique communities. Topics covered include: Family Histories and Personal Journeys Challenges of Mixed Heritage Parallels Between Jewish and Native Cultures Support Systems and Resilience Navigating Trauma Together Exploring Israeli Identity Indigeneity and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Native American Reparations Jewish and Native American Cultural Exchange Native American History Month This episode was produced with and recorded live at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. Learn more about The Weitzman at https://theweitzman.org and follow @weitzmanmuseum on Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Mentioned In The Episode: Lani Anpo Instagram Indijewness on Instagram Sarah Podesmski Instagram The Weitzman Museum on Instagram Watch Reservation Dogs on Hulu Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation Sicangu Lakota Nation Saulteaux The Floaters (Upcoming Film) Jackie Tohn on BJJP Blood Quantum and Sovereignty: A Guide The One-Drop Rule The Jay Treaty Levant Decolonization From 1945 Matrilineal Descent in the era of Babylonian Exile Celebrating National Native American Heritage Month Foundational Essay of Patrick Wolf Sara’s Summer Camp: Camp Shomria About Givat Haviva For Jewish Indigenous actress Sarah Podemski, it’s a miracle just to exist (“plugging holes in a sinking ship”) Sarah’s sisters’s PBS series “Little Bird” Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: beingjewishpodcast@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish

Oct 23

On the hunt for the perfect NJB (Nice Jewish Boy) or Girl? Look no further! On this love-filled episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah is joined by international matchmaking icon Aleeza Ben Shalom, star of the hit Netflix show 'Jewish Matchmaking.” Aleeza is an author, dating coach, and modern day yente who has successfully matched over 200 couples and coached thousands more. Get ready to find your Beshert! Aleeze spills the tea on the most common dating mistakes, and why you might still be single. She also explains the wisdom behind her signature philosophies: “Date ‘em til’ you hate ‘em” “No touching for five dates” and why “Love is not enough.” Aleeza emphasizes personal growth, compatibility, and building a lasting connection through mutual understanding and shared values. She also discusses her vision for a global matchmaking movement aimed at strengthening communities by helping people find their life partners. In this episode, Jonah and Aleeza help you YOUR “Beshert” and chat about all of these meaningful topics: Dating Culture Around the World Challenges in Modern Dating The #1 Dating Mistake People Make Post-Match Coaching and Breakup Rules Understanding Soulmates in Judaism Why Older Singles Are Still Single Opposites Attract vs. Peas in a Pod Date 'Em Till You Hate 'Em No Touching for Five Dates The Importance of Compatibility Beyond Love Mentioned In Episode Aleeza Ben Shalom Website Matchmaker Matchmaker - Podcast Aleeza Ben Shalom Youtube Get Real Get Married: Get Over your Hurdles and Under the Chuppah Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Find Me a Love That Lasts The Chuppah, or Wedding Canopy Shomer Negiah, the Prohibition on Touching Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com 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, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, 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

Oct 21

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Our first returning guest, Sarah Hurwitz, rejoins Jonah to discuss her powerful new book As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us — a work as essential as it is uplifting in a post–October 7th world. In this deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation, Sarah reflects on how education can be a true source of empowerment and shares insights from her own evolving Jewish journey. Drawing from years of research and her current pursuit of the rabbinate, she offers a rich, nuanced perspective on what it means to live — and lead — as a Jew today. For Sarah, Judaism isn’t about any single expression — not just Israel, Hebrew, activism, or observance — but the harmony of all these threads woven together with curiosity, study and connection to the sacred wisdom of our ancient tradition. This episode feels like stepping into a vibrant, welcoming congregation — full of learning, laughter, and meaning. Don’t miss this inspiring and deeply grounding conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editor Diana DeCilio, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative ; Editor: Noem Klement; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell MENTIONED IN MONOLOGUE Curse of Knowledge - Cognitive Bias What Is The Illusion of Transparency? What is Naive Realism? Explaining Settler Violence in the West Bank/Judea & Samaria Understanding the IDF’S Code of Ethics The Complicated Connection Between President Trump & American Jews Chicago ICE’s Crackdown Leads To Father of Two Being Shot at Daycare Pickup As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us by Sarah Hurwitz Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life–in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah Hurwitz The Atlantic: The Judaism I Thought I Knew by Sarah Hurwitz Understanding the “As A Jew” Jews Emancipation of European Jews The Jewish Reform Movement in 19th Century Europe Holy Scriptures of Judaism Understanding Secular Zionism Judaism and the Human Body The Sanctity of the Human Body in Judaism In God’s Image: B'tselem Elohim Who is Rabbi Yitz Greenberg? The Wexner Foundation Who Were Amalek & The Amalekites? Homosexuality & The Death Penalty in Leviticus 20 Ancient Teachings of “An Eye for an Eye” Old Testament Vs New Testament Why Do People Hate Jews: Dara Horn (Video) A Look at “Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” by Dara Horn (Short) “Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” — Tablet Magazine Article The Expulsion of Jews From Arab Countries and Iran - An Untold Story The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Jewish Currents) The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Indiana Law Journal) Ethiopian Jews in Israel: Operation Solomon & More Anti-Judaism: The Western Tradition by David Nirenberg What Is The Great Replacement Theory & What Should Jews Know About It? British Foreign Minister Ernest Bevin at the Palestine Conference What Is Brandolini’s Law? What is Bikur Cholim? The Importance of Visiting the Sick in the Jewish Faith Miller Intro to Judaism Program A Code of Jewish Ethics by Joseph Telushkin Rabbi Jonathan Sachs “Covenant and Conversation” Box Set

Oct 16

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Madison Werner has been a trailblazer in the transgender and Jewish communities, becoming the first transgender CoverGirl model in 2024 and using her platform to inspire hundreds of thousands worldwide. With pride, compassion and honesty, she shares her story of identity, faith, and belonging. In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, Madison joins Jonah Platt to open up about navigating life as a Jewish and transgender woman - two powerful identities she refuses to separate. Since October 7th and the Israel/Hamas war, Madison has spoken out about the complexities many LGBTQ+ Jews face in balancing their support for Israel with acceptance in queer spaces. Through it all, she’s led with empathy, courage, and curiosity challenging brands, re-examining friendships, and deepening her connection to Jewish values. Madison also shares: Her experiences at Tel Aviv Pride What it was like sheltering in Israel during the Iranian rocket attacks Growing up in a Jewish day school What Jewish teachings say about gender and transgender identity This is a powerful, deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, and faith in today’s world. Listen to Madison Werner on 30 Minute Mensches with Jonah Platt - where modern Jewish voices share stories of courage, compassion, and community. Connect with Madison Follow Madison Werner on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/madisonwerner/?hl=en Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Mentioned in Episode B’Tselem Elohim: Jewish Concept That We’re All Born in God’s Image JQ International JQ International Honors Henry Platt Facebook Video Navigating Jewish-Queer Identity in the Wake of October 7th Insider Israel’s Vibrant LGBTQ Community Understanding LGBTQ Rights in Israel Understanding The Horseshoe Theory in Politics Follow Feminist on Instagram Madison Werner Becomes First Transgender Model To Represent Covergirl The Seven Genders in the Talmud The Road to the Iran-Israel War

Oct 14

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In an episode that beautifully blends trailblazing with tradition, Jonah Platt sits down with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of New York’s Central Synagogue to discuss her powerful new book, Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Story of Faith, Identity and Belonging. Together, they explore what it means to live JEWISHLY today — drawing on timeless wisdom, personal reflection, and ancient storytelling. From conversations about conversion and inclusion to reflections on optimism and belonging in a fractured world, Rabbi Buchdahl brings her signature depth and compassion to every topic. Much like her weekly sermons, streamed by millions around the globe every week, this discussion feels both timely and timeless, landing perfectly on the Jewish calendar as she reflects on the meaning of Simchat Torah and Shemini Atzeret. At the heart of the episode — and of Rabbi Buchdahl’s book — lies a profound idea: that to be Jewish often means to feel like a stranger - usually a sentiment that feels isolating but when embraced can be inspiring, empathetic and purposeful. Don’t miss this thoughtful and uplifting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. Connect with our guest Follow Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl on Instagram Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging Who is Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl? Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative ; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell Mentioned In Episode Van Orden of Wisconsin Beats Cooke in 2024 Race Early Polls Indicate Rebecca Cooke & Derrick Van Orden Nearly Neck And Neck Rebecca Cooke Calls For US to Halt Arms To Israel What is the Foundation To Combat Antisemitism (FCAS) Currently Blue Square Alliance Against Hate? FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Ads Blue Square Alliance “When There Are No Words” Campaign FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Tom Brady & Snoop Dogg Ad Most Recent FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Ad Why Are Less People Smoking Today? Bill Maher’s Statements About Israel (Facebook) Bill Maher’s Statements About Israel (Instagram) Why & How Did Israel Fail To Deliver Aid in Gaza? Humanitarian Aid in Gaza: What’s Really Happening? UN Data Show Most Aid to Gaza Looted Stream Central Synagogue’s Services The Neighborhood at Central Synagogue - Remote/Streaming Membership Women in Judaism: A History of Women’s Ordination as Rabbis Sports History: Michael Jordan Didn’t Make His High School Basketball Team In the Spotlight with Abigail Pogrebin on JBS The History of the Female Rabbi Discover Temple Beth El—A Vibrant Jewish Community in the Heart of Tacoma Korean Women’s Association in Tacoma (Pioneered by Rabbi Buchdahl’s Mother) Are We Ashkenormative or Ashkefardic? Jewish Infighting Is a Gift to Antisemitism What is an Erev Rav? A Mixed Multitude Coming out of Egypt Diversity in the State of Israel Why Is Jewishness Matrilineal? Did Judaism Use to Practice Patrilineal Descent? Understanding Ezra & Judaism Zera: A Seed in the Garden The Dissolving of Marriages in Ezra 9-10 and Nehemiah 13 Revisited Jewish Federation on “The Surge” of Jewish Practice & Connection Post 10/7 Why Jews Are Leaving The Fold Mashber: Hebrew Word for “Crisis” What is Kol Nidre?

Oct 9

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish What happens when Jewish education stops being about advocacy — and starts being about curiosity? That’s the mission of Dr. Noam Weissman, Executive Vice President of OpenDor Media and host of the hit podcast Unpacking Israeli History. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah and Noam dive into how we teach, talk and think about Israel — and what it takes to build a generation of Jews who are both passionate and informed. Noam shares: Why “Israel education” should be about questions, not just advocacy What he calls “goosebumps with complexity” — combining emotional connection with intellectual honesty Why teaching young Jews that Israel is perfect does more harm than good The untold story of the Altalena ship, and how it nearly tore Israel apart Why Jewish summer camps and schools are key to rebuilding Israel literacy — and what real Zionism looks like in the 21st century From school classrooms to TikTok feeds, Noam Weissman is revolutionizing how people learn about Israel and Jewish identity — blending history, heart, and hard truths. Listen now to hear how one educator is transforming Jewish learning for a new generation. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Mentioned In Episode Unpacking Israeli History Podcast Unpacked Media Unpacked for Educators What Is ConnectEd? Jewish/Israeli Education For Broader Constituents Wondering Jews Podcast Who is Mijal Bitton? Who Is Kimberly Hirabayashi? Understanding Yom Ha’atzmaut: Israeli Independence Day (Unpacked) How to Engage Students for Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom HaZikaron (Unpacked for Educators) What Is The Altalena: Israel’s (Almost) Civil War? Understanding German Reparations Post WWII Who Are The Mizrahi Jews? History of The Mizrahi Migration to Israel (Unpacked) Jewish Refugees from Arab Countries (Jewish Virtual Library) The Surprising History of Israel’s Black Panthers Why Doesn’t Israel Have a Constitution? Who is Philosopher Lev Vygotsky & What Were His Views on Zionism & Judaism? Philosopher Jean Piaget & The Ties to Judaism Julie Platt on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Jonah Thinks We Should Stop Saying “Antisemitism”! Herzl's Troubled Dream: The Origins of Zionism Who is Ze’ev (Vladimir) Jabotinsky & What Are His Connections to Zionism? Who Is Author David Suissa? This Week in Jewish History | Palestinian Terrorists Kill 25 Hostages in Ma'alot Massacre What is the Munich Massacre? Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 1 – The Dreyfus Affair Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 2 – Herzl & The Non-Promised Land Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 6 – The Altalena (Israel’s Almost Civil War) Who Is Menachem Begin? Pre-IDF Brigades: Haganah, Irgun and Lechi David Ben-Gurion Who Is Ahmed Faoud Alkhatib? Palestinian-American Activist & Blogger Who Is Mohammed Dajani Daoudi? Arab Scholar & Peace Activist Who Is Haviv Rettig Gur? Israeli Journalist & The Times of Israel’s Senior Analyst Camp Lavi: Jewish Sleepaway Camp in The Poconos

Oct 7

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish On the second anniversary of October 7th , Jonah sits down with Israeli artist and advocate Tomer Peretz to discuss The 8 Project — an extraordinary initiative he launched in the aftermath of the attacks. Rooted in the symbolism of creation, resilience, and renewal, The 8 Project helps survivors of October 7th — from NOVA attendees and hostage families to soldiers and grieving parents — discover how art can be a powerful path to healing. For Tomer, that lesson is deeply personal. In Israel for a wedding just days before the attacks, he witnessed the horror of October 7th firsthand. He put his emotions aside to volunteer with ZAKA , Israel’s emergency rescue organization, but the weight of it all eventually caught up with him. What helped him process the pain was art — a lifeline that not only restored his own hope, but reignited his belief in the strength of the Jewish and Israeli people. The results of that creative resilience were recently showcased at The Museum of Tolerance , featuring works from survivors across Israel. In this emotional and deeply meaningful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah and Tomer explore the power of art therapy, the unbreakable connection between creativity and faith and the urgent importance of sharing the stories of those who survived. Connect with Our Guest Follow Tomer Peretz: www.instagram.com/tomerperetzart The 8 Project: https://the8project.org/ TomerPeretz.com: https://tomerperetz.com/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative ; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell Mentioned In Episode Zaka “The Light Will Win” Museum of Tolerance to Feature Oct 7th Inspired Artwork from Noted Israeli Artist, Tomer Peretz Artist Tomer Peretz Volunteers with ZAKA in Israel Israeli-American Describes Sheer Horror of Clearing Bodies from Hamas Terrorist Attack Award-Winning Artist Tomer Peretz Pulls Off Unexpected ‘Live Art’ Flash Mob at Art Basel in Miami, FL The True Horror of ‘Globalize the Intifada’ Coverage of Oct 12 Lynch in Ramallah Golani: Serving With Pride Since 1948 Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: Spreading Culture & Unity Through Jewish Food, Israeli-American Chef Michael Solomonov Native Dies as Israeli Soldier (David Solomonov) Israel and Palestine | Middle Ground Roundtable What Is A Kibbutz? The Roots of Israel’s Communal Villages Shifts in Attitudes Regarding Peace Amongst Kibbutzniks A Lifeline of its Own As Volunteers Step In for State, Gaza Border Towns Begin Rebuilding from Oct. 7 Ashes Who is Barak Hiram of the IDF? Controversial Commander Barak Hiram Named Next Gaza Division Chief Who Is the IDF General Who Ordered Tank Fire on a Kibbutz Home with 13 Hostages Inside? Tomer Peretz’s UNBREAKABLE Exhibit UNBREAKABLE Exhibit Video What is The Significance of The Number 8 in Judaism? Tomer Peretz Creates 1,200 Person Memorial Exhibit for 10/7

Oct 3

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish After being clinically DEAD for 11 minutes, Jana Stern returned to life with a mission: Help others honor their true essence and bring light to the world. That’s the story of Jana Stern — Jewish psychic, astrologer, and spiritual healer. In this unique episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jana opens up about her near-death experience, her lifelong connection to ancestral wisdom, and how Jewish identity and Kabbalah align with her work. She also gives Jonah a spiritual energy reading live on air! Jana shares: Her 11 minutes “beyond the veil,” encountering ancestors and choosing to return to this world How hearing voices — once feared as schizophrenia — became the foundation of her spiritual gift The Jewish roots of astrology, Kabbalah, and metaphysics, and why she says this wisdom is “ours” How Shabbat, rituals, and Torah teachings are deeply tied to spiritual energy Why she believes there are no coincidences — only divine coordination and manifestation How trauma, tragedy, and loss can still be part of a higher purpose for growth and healing From astrology charts and synchronicities to Shabbat candles and Jewish ancestry, Jana brings a unique lens on spirituality, Judaism, and healing in the modern world. Listen now to explore how Jewish wisdom and mysticism can bring meaning and healing to modern life. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Mentioned In The Episode I’m Really Into “That Stuff” — Jana Stern’s Podcast Janastern.com Anchor & Orbit — Jana Stern’s Newsletter What is Gematria? Kabbalah and Mysticism 101 Own Your Fucking Intuition "Manifest A New Reality with the Power of Your Mind" - Dr Joe Dispenza “My ADHD Diagnosis Changed My Life!” How Jonah Platt Discovered his Full Authentic Self

Sep 30

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish We’re Back! I In this very special season premiere of Being Jewish, Jason Alexander, who gave us the iconic George Costanza from Seinfeld, joins Jonah Platt to discuss Jewish identity, cultural Judaism vs. religion, his work as a proud Jew and activist supporting Israel, and the impact of October 7th. The legendary actor, Tony Award-winner, and generational TV comedy icon kicks off the new season in a deep and honest conversation. Jason Alexander cares about the children; he is not interested in belonging to a group and would rather build bridges and not borders, learn why this Mensch is truly a Master of His Domain. Jason Alexander discusses his personal faith and the distinction between cultural Judaism (a "shirt I can't take off") and formal religious doctrine. He shares the emotional weight of being a Jew since October 7th and his long-standing commitment to Jewish philanthropy, including organizations like Magen David Adom, the ADL, and Jewish Federation. He clarifies the story behind his stage name change from Jay Scott Greenspan to Jason Alexander. If that’s not enough, Jason gives us his unbelievable inside stories from working on Seinfeld and tells us about the one episode that even he thought pushed the boundaries taste too much. Connect with Our Guest Follow Jason Alexander on Instagram Jason Alexander’s IMDB Page Jason Alexander Hosts Cancer Research Fund August 5 Virtual Gala Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative ; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell Mentioned In Episode How Many American Adults Actually Use Social Media? Pew Research Report Advanced Technique with Jason Alexander Entrepreneur & Bridge-Builder Daniel Lubetzky Wilshire Boulevard Temple Jason Alexander Post for Ohad Munder-Zichri Over 4,000 Hollywood Actors & Directors Boycott Israeli Productions in Name of Gaza 24/7 Seinfeld Online Stream Watch Seinfeld on Netflix Bryan Cranston as Tim Whatley on Seinfeld Season 8, Episode 19: “The Yada Yada” Seinfeld, Season 5, Episode 5: “The Bris” Seinfeld, Season 3, Episode 3: “The Pen” Jason as Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” at La Mirada Jonah Platt and Mark Whitten sing “The Riddle Song” from “Floyd Collins” at La Mirada Theater, 2014 Jason Alexander Returns to ‘Broadway Bound’ as Director About Neil Simon The Neil Simon Collection If I Forget, Directed by Jason Alexander PeaceWorks Foundation (formerly OneVoice Movement) Anti-Defamation League Jason to Direct “Sweeney Todd” at La Mirada Theater

Sep 28

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Season 2 premieres THIS TUESDAY September 30th ! And we’ll continue dropping 30 Minute Mensches every Thursday . A double dose of BJJP every week! This season features more incredible guests beginning with Jason Alexander, Tomer Peretz, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Sarah Hurwitz, Sarah Podemski & Lani Anpo, Jake Tapper and many more! Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to make sure you don’t miss a moment!

Sep 25

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish What does it mean to live proudly and publicly Jewish in New York City, with the possibility of Zohran Mamdani as mayor looming large? Ask Ben Soffer, better known as @BoyWithNoJob to his over 1 million followers online. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Ben — CEO of Spritz Society wine cocktails, co-host of the hit Good Guys podcast with Josh Peck, husband to viral creator Claudia Oshry (Girl With No Job), and proud modern Orthodox Jew — to talk about faith, family, social media, and Jewish pride in today’s charged climate. Together, Jonah and Ben dig into How Ben built a unique modern Orthodox identity on his own terms What it feels like to wear a kippah on the streets of New York amid rising anti-Jew bigotry The effect October 7th had on his Jewish identity… or didn’t? How becoming a father deepened his sense of connection to God and Jewish continuity The story behind Spritz Society — and how a viral April Fool’s joke turned into a real-life savory cocktail courtesy of Claussen’s Pickles! From candid takes on community safety to spreading Jewish joy through humor (and beverages!), Ben Soffer embodies what it means to be unapologetically yourself — and unapologetically Jewish — in the digital age. Listen now to hear how one of the internet’s most authentic voices is shaping Jewish identity for a new generation. Connect with Our Guest Ben Soffer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boywithnojob/ Ben Soffer & Josh Peck’s Podcast “The Good Guys” https://www.instagram.com/goodguys/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Mentioned In Episode Jonah’s appearance on The Good Guys podcast “Mazel, Moses” Spritz Society Camp Ramah NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani’s Comments About Globalizing The Intifada 'All Jewish Americans are questioning their security' after violent antisemitic attacks College group Zohran Mamdani co-founded welcomed radical speaker who later blamed US for 9/11 attacks: ‘Made its bed’ Socialist NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani once rapped about his ‘love’ for Hamas terror-funding group ‘Holy Land Five’ AJC Survey Shows American Jews are Deeply and Increasingly Connected to Israel Ouri’s Market - Upper East Side, NYC What Does The Word Neshama Mean? 23andMe Is Under Fire. Its Founder Remains ‘Optimistic’

Sep 18

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish What does it mean to reclaim Judaism not in the synagogue — but at the family table? That’s the vision of Rabbi David Bashevkin, author, podcaster, educator and one of today’s most engaging Modern Orthodox voices. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Rabbi Bashevkin to explore how Judaism can speak authentically to modern life and why Jewish identity is ultimately about integrating our “unchosen” identities with the “chosen” ones. Rabbi Bashevkin shares: Why Jewish life must begin in the home, not in synagogues or textbooks How Judaism helps us integrate our unchosen identity (family, history, peoplehood) with our chosen paths in life The importance of 1840 — a mystical year that reshaped Jewish thought, technology, and modern identity Why Jewish education must instill a love of lifelong learning– not just through graduation The urgent need for bridge-building within the Jewish community — and how to turn religious difference into dialogue Why teens crave authenticity, and how NCSY empowers them through peer-to-peer mentorship The challenge of negative Orthodox representation in the media — and why Judaism is meant for the imperfect among us Rabbi Bashevkin’s work through his platform 18Forty (essays, podcasts, and conversations at 1840.org) opens the door for “post-institutional Jews” and anyone searching for meaning beyond the classroom. Listen to this episode to find out why Judaism isn’t just about survival or fighting antisemitism — it’s about rediscovering purpose, family, and the sanctity of everyday existence. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson . Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell More on Dovid Bashevkin 18Forty Website Follow Rabbi Bashevkin on X Mentioned in Episode Listen to 18Forty Podcast (Apple Podcasts) Watch the 18Forty Podcast on YouTube Essays by Rabbi David Bashevkin What Makes A Jewish Home? What Is The Significance of The Year 1840? Understanding The Zohar & The Significance of the Year 1840 for Jews The Sixth Millennium & The Age of Moshiach What is The Zohar? What Jewish Education Means To Me by Rabbi David Bashevkin Here All Along by Sarah Hurwitz Sarah Hurwitz on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt (Season 1) Parashat Vayehi: Teach A Child According To Their Way Who is Rabbi Moshe Hayim Luzzatto? An Appreciation of Rav Yitzchok Hutner Who is Martin Buber? Phish Rendition of Avinu Malkeinu A Brief Biography of The Lubavitcher Rebbe Questions & Answers on Moshe & The Angels What is NCSY? National Conference of Synagogue Youth

Sep 11

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this eye-opening episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Leah Soibel, an Argentine-American Jew and the founder and CEO of Fuente Latina, to explore her remarkable journey — from studying across the Middle East during the Second Intifada to becoming a leading voice for Latino-Jewish allyship. Leah spent years immersed in Cairo, Beirut, and beyond, before building the first organization dedicated to connecting Spanish-speaking journalists with accurate, on-the-ground stories from Israel. Leah shares: Her experiences as the only American Jew debating at a “Mock Arab League” in Cairo — and what she learned about misunderstanding vs. hatred How traveling solo across Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza shaped her perspective on media, politics, and truth Why she founded Fuente Latina — and how it bridges the gap between Israel and over 500 million Spanish speakers worldwide The rise of antisemitism in Spain — and the quiet network of allies working behind the scenes Why Latin American immigrants to Israel were among the hardest hit on October 7th — and the powerful new docuseries sharing their stories Why U.S. Latinos, the fastest-growing voting bloc, may be the strongest future allies for Israel and the Jewish community Leah’s story is one of courage, strategy, and vision — showing how truth and relationships can combat misinformation and build bridges across cultures. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now and join the movement for Latino-Jewish allyship. More On Leah Soibel Fuente Latina Follow Fuente Latina on Instagram Follow Fuente Latina on TikTok Fuente Latina on YouTube Contact Leah Soibel Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère. Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Mentioned in Episode 710 Testigos Del Terror: A Film About The Latin-Israelis Affected by 10/7 Rioting Erupts As Ariel Sharon Visits Temple Mount Palestinian Population in Chile Iran Launches Spanish Network in 2012 Jonah’s Episode with Stuart Weitzman Five Things To Know About Anti-Jewish Hate in Spain Latin Population in the United States by the Numbers How Latinos Voted in 2024 Election Many Latinos Aspire To Visit Israel & The Holy Land Israel Recovers Body of Mexican Held Hostage in Gaza Latino Jews Grieve, Worry As Attack in Israel Puts Close Family Ties in Focus A Latina’s Experience Living Near the Israel-Gaza Border Testimony from Alejandra Lopez - A Latina 10/7 Survivor What Dave Chapelle’s SNL Monologue Got Right & Wrong About Antisemitism in America

Sep 4

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: beingjewishpodcast@gmail.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Melinda Strauss is a modern Orthodox Jewish influencer and food blogger who passionately believes that Jewish joy is resistance and Jewish presence is power. Her digital journey began with a singular mission: to share, educate and enlighten others about the richness of Orthodox Jewish life. Feeling consistently misrepresented and misunderstood, Melinda took it upon herself to authentically showcase Orthodox Jewish identity to the world. What started with kosher recipe videos quickly grew into a powerful platform that highlights Jewish traditions, such as putting on Tefillin or wearing a Yarmulke. Her content has been met with some hate - but more curiosity and compassion. Today, Melinda Strauss is a vocal advocate for Jewish people, using her voice to increase visibility, fight anti-Jewish bigotry and celebrate Jewish heritage and culture globally — and she’s only just getting started. In this conversation with Jonah, Melinda discusses: The current climate and safety concerns facing the global Jewish community Melinda’s upcoming kosher cookbook Eat Jewish: 100 Recipes That Blend Jewish Heritage, Modern Flavors and Family Traditions Her personal journey living with Type 1 Diabetes Her nuanced thoughts on certain Jewish laws, including The Get The rich, diverse, and evolving tapestry of Orthodox Jewish identity Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!) https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6 Host & Production Team Host/Creator: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell More Melinda Strauss https://melindastrauss.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@therealmelindastrauss Mentioned in Episode

Aug 28

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this deliciously inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with world-renowned Israeli Chef Eyal Shani — the culinary visionary behind Miznon, HaSalon, Malkah, and dozens of other Israeli restaurants around the globe. As a ninth-generation Jerusalemite with no formal culinary training, Chef Eyal has redefined Israeli cuisine and hospitality while carrying out a mission much bigger than food– spreading positive energy, peace, and connection with each bite. Just days after the horrific October 7th attack, Chef Eyal was awarded the coveted Michelin star for his New York restaurant Shmone, but chose not to attend the ceremony. Why? He was busy cooking thousands of meals for soldiers on the Gaza border, embodying his belief that food is truly about people, not prizes. Together, Jonah and Chef Eyal explore: Why he treats every ingredient — from cucumbers to prime rib — as a living “creature” with a will and a story The night violent anti-Israel agitators attacked the Melbourne branch of his restaurant Miznon, and how Lebanese neighbors saved his team’s lives How his deep connection to the Palestinian women of the Jerusalem markets inspired his earliest dishes Why he believes food can reunite Israelis and Palestinians — and create “a new Israel” after war His vision for opening a boutique hotel and restaurant on the Gaza border as a symbol of renewal Chef Shani’s philosophy is radical yet simple: there are no borders in food, only human beings. Don’t miss this extraordinary conversation with a chef whose cooking has become a language of hope. Listen to the full episode now and be part of the conversation. Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!) https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6 All Things Chef Eyal! Chef Eyal Shani’s Instagram Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Miznon Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant HaSalon Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Malka Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Shmoné Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell; Production Assistant: Emma Webb; Theme Music by Gabriel Mann MENTIONED IN EPISODE Melbourne’s Minzon Attacked by Pro-Hamas Protestors Lebanese Brothers From Minzon’s Neighboring Restaurant Intervene to Protect Minzon Iranian Missile Strikes on Israel Chef Eyal Shani Receives Michelin Star for Restaurant Shmone Chef Eyal Shani Cooks for IDF Troops the Same Day He Wins Michelin Star Timeline of The History of Jerusalem Chef Eyal Shani Set To Open Restaurant Near Kibbutz Nir Am Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy Where to find Leroy Borgougne Rouge

Aug 14

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish It’s music meets mishpacha in this heartfelt new episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches! Grammy-winning Jewish children’s music artist Joanie Leeds joins Jonah to share stories about the triumphs and challenges of making Jewish music in today’s climate. They discuss the debut of her 12th studio album Ageless, an ode to multi-generational heritage and Jewish values. Joanie and Jonah also tackle the line between music as political expression and music as the universal language of unity. They also get into: 🎶 How Joanie turned banned children’s books into the protest album Freadom ✡️ The challenges of advocating for a Jewish music category at the Grammys 🎤 Collaborating with her daughter on song and on the stage 📚 The greatness of Jewish hero Ruth Bader Ginsburg 🎸 Balancing inclusivity and political messaging in family-friendly music Press Play and join us for 30 minutes of music, meaning, and Jewish joy! Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!) https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6 All Things Joanie! Joanie Leeds’ YouTube Channel Joanie Leeds’ Spotify Channel Joanie Leeds on Apple Music Joanie Leeds’ Website Pre Order Joanie’s Album Add your name to Joanie’s Recording Academy Jewish Artists List! Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Joanie’s Petition to Make a Jewish Music Grammy Category What does the Hebrew word “Ruach” mean? How Mister Rogers Tackled Taboo/Difficult Topics for Children Joanie wins her first Grammy Male Acts & Performers Dominate 2018 Grammy Nominations Coldplay’s Chris Martin Welcomes Israelis & Palestinians at Concerts Rise in American Book Burning List of Banned Books Children’s Book: And Tango Makes Three Controversy Around Children’s Book “And Tango Makes Three” “FAUCI OUCHIE” by Joanie Leeds What is Banned Books Week? Who was Ruth Bader Ginsburg? Controversy Surrounding RBG’s Reluctance to Retire RBG’s Contributions to Female Financial Freedom Children’s Music Network (CMN) Joanie Leeds & Mikey Pauker Push For Jewish Music Category in The Grammys What is Grandparent’s Day? Joanie’s Upcoming Concert at the Kennedy Center 90s Music Legend Lisa Loeb Lisa Loeb’s Instagram Lisa Loeb Dishes on Being A Jewish Mom “Camp Lisa” Lisa Loeb’s Foundation & Song

Aug 7

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish What happens when you grow up Catholic in Mexico — and discover you’re secretly Jewish? In this riveting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches , Jonah sits down with Blanca Carrasco, a descendant of Crypto-Jews who only discovered her family’s secret heritage at age 50. Now the president of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, Blanca unpacks the unknown history of Crypto-Jews — descendants of Jews who secretly maintained their faith after being forced to convert during the Spanish Inquisition. Blanca shares her extraordinary journey to discover who her true family is. She’s a leader in the global movement helping descendants of forcibly converted Jews reclaim their heritage. Blanca opens up about: 🕯️ How the Spanish Inquisition forced her ancestors to flee Spain and hide their Judaism for generations ✝️ Being raised devoutly Catholic — and the moment she began questioning what she was taught 🔯 Her path from Messianic Judaism to a full Jewish conversion 📜 The Facebook post that led to the discovery of her secret family tree 🎓 Her work with the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, and why their academic research has personal meaning for thousands of “Anusim” around the world 🎬 A sneak peek into the Society's upcoming Los Angeles conference, including an opera, film screenings, and a genealogy workshop with Jeannie Milgrom From Monterrey to El Paso, from the Church to the shul, Blanca’s story is a global tale of discovery, identity, and reconnection. Her life proves that history isn’t just in books — it’s in your blood. Hit play to discover how centuries of hidden history came full circle, and what Blanca’s story means for all of us. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Who Were the Crypto Jews? The Converso History The Alhambra Decree Ottoman Lands provided Safe Haven for Sephardic Jews Expelled from Spain “Anuism” Meaning Captain Marcos Alonso de la Garza del Arcón (1551-1634) Inquisition on the Canary Islands Messianic Jew Jonathan Settel Who are Messianic Jews? Rabbi Stephen Leon Anusim Center of El Paso Common Converso Names Jewish Mourning Traditions (like Covering Mirrors) What is Ladino? Somos Primos Facebook Group Ashkenazi vs Sephardic Jews Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies HaLapid Magazine Crypto-Jews of Brazil The Dönmes: Crypto-Jews under Turkish Rule Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies Annual Conference in Los Angeles, August 10-12, 2025 Cuban-Jewish Author/Geneologist Genie Milgrom What is a Mikvah? A Long Journey: The Hidden Jews of the Southwest Dona Gracia Mendes-Nasi “La Señora” opera about Dona Gracia by Dr. Michelle Green Willner

Jul 31

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish What’s it like to be a gay Lebanese Christian — and proudly Zionist? In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with international Jonathan Elkhoury, a proud Israeli citizen who is challenging false media narratives and misconceptions about Israel one campus conversation at a time. Born in Lebanon to a father who fought alongside the IDF during Israel’s 1982 intervention in the Lebanese civil war, Jonathan fled Hezbollah rule and found refuge in Israel at age 9. He shares the harrowing story of his family’s escape, his emotional reunion with his father, and how Israel not only gave him safety, but also the freedom to live openly as a gay man — the only Middle Eastern country where that’s possible. Jonathan also speaks out about: 🏳️‍🌈 Israel’s track record on LGBTQ rights — and the lie of “pinkwashing” 🎓 How he confronts anti-Israel misinformation on college campuses — even after being spat on, kicked, and targeted for his views 🧱 How he combats "Israeli Apartheid Week" with the truth of his lived experiences 👤 What it means to be a “minority within a minority within a minority” — and why he still stands with Israel 📺 Why mainstream media — including the BBC — continues to fail on the Middle East 🔥 The real reasons Israel went into Lebanon in 1982 — and the Palestinian terrorism that sparked a civil war Jonathan’s story is a living example of intersectionality — and how true human rights work means defending people, not slogans. He is the voice anti-Israel activists try to silence. Don’t miss hearing him on this week’s can’t miss episode. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb); Editor: Rainbow Creative Team; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell Follow Jonathan on: IG: @jon_elk X: @Jonathan_Elk MENTIONED IN EPISODE: Jonah & Jonathan’s trip with Sharaka for March of the Living Jonathan Elkhoury on Defying Stereotypes Backgrounder on the 1982 Lebanon War Lebanese Civil War Anti-Israel “Apartheid Week” Israel’s withdrawal from Southern Lebanon (2000) Israel’s LGBT Rights Timeline How Immigrants Boosted LGBTQ Rights in Israel Lebanese Christians under the French Mandate Timeline: The Rise, Spread, and Fall of ISIS Israeli Christians Recruitment Forum Israel’s Population Diversity Israel defends Druze in Syria Hassan Nasrallah Killed in Israeli Airstrike Jonathan’s Post 10/7 Tweet

Jul 22

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches , Jonah sits down with acclaimed Disney animator, filmmaker, and motivational speaker Saul Blinkoff for a powerful conversation about Jewish resilience, Disney magic, and living a life of purpose. Together, they explore how timeless Jewish values are embedded in iconic animated films like The Lion King, and Saul speaks passionately about finding meaning in your Jewish identity every day, and the importance of living with responsibility and intention. Saul reflects on his transformative trips to Israel as a guide with the nonprofit Momentum, and urges Jews worldwide to "LIVE FOR the Jewish people" as Israeli sons and daughters die to defend them. He and Jonah discuss how Jewish resilience, hope, and creativity can be antidotes to despair, even in the face of the horrors of October 7th. They also tackle: ⁇ Was Walt Disney really an antisemite? 🎬 The hidden Jewish values in your favorite Disney films 🇮🇱 Why Saul insists it’s safe (and necessary) to go to Israel right NOW 🌟 The miraculous story of Omer Shem Tov, who kept his hope and Jewish identity alive, even as a Hamas hostage in Gaza And much more If you’re looking for inspiration, wisdom, and practical ways to infuse your life with purpose and Jewish pride, this episode is a must-watch! Subscribe for more episodes of 30 Minute Mensches and join the conversation about what it truly means to be Jewish today. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE: All things Saul Blinkoff: www.SaulBlinkoff.com IG: @Saul.Blinkoff Life of Awesome Podcast Highest Grossing Animated Movies in History Who were the Sherman Brothers? Was Walt Disney an antisemite? “Path of the Just” Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato (RaMChaL) Momentum Org Rabbi Noach Weinberg Crave! “We Will Dance Again” (Nova Festival Documentary) The Battle of Sderot Kibbutzim Destroyed on October 7th Tragedy at Nahal Oz “The Killing Roads” documentary Iran lost more Generals in 12 Days than US in Both World Wars “Not That There’s Anything Wrong with That!” Omer Shem-Tov Kept Shabbat in Captivity

Jul 15

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In the premiere of our new series 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah Platt sits down with Michal Cotler-Wunsh — former Knesset member and Israel’s Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism — for a long-overdue conversation about the eighth front of war: the battle for public opinion. Jonah and Michal discuss how antisemitism has manifested itself today, particularly through using anti-Zionist rhetoric, and how Israelis may feel a disconnect from that. Michal gives her perspective on how institutions such as the UN, Amnesty International, and elite universities have not only tolerated but enabled and normalized antisemitic double standards under the guise of progressive activism. Jonah challenges Michal to help make sense of the widespread moral confusion and media failures that culminate to chants such as “Death to the IDF,” and asks how we can bridge the gap with well-meaning people who have been misled by catchy headlines and ill-informed outrage. This episode answers the question of why antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem, but a global one, and what we can do to fight it. This episode tackles: 🧠 Why Michal’s role as Israel’s antisemitism envoy is so crucial today, especially in combating widespread misinformation and harmful rhetoric. 🎓 How university presidents and U.S. officials have failed to take a stand in the face of rising Jew-hatred 🕍 Why most Israelis don’t understand global antisemitism — and why they need to 📖 The 3 R’s: Remember, Reclaim, Renew — a framework for Jewish pride 👤How human rights advocacy has been hijacked and weaponized by anti-Zionists. — 🎙️ 30 Minute Mensches is a new short-form edition of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt — spotlighting diverse voices doing meaningful work across Jewish and allied communities. MENTIONED IN EPISODE Official Biography of Michal Cotler-Wunsh The Story of Queen Esther IHRA Definition of Antisemitism UN Speech: Michal Cotler-Wunsh Addresses Global Antisemitism Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Glastonbury Festival Jewish concerns about Mamdani Calling Out Glastonbury Festival for Antisemitic Messaging The 1948 War against Israel’s Existence UN 1975 Resolution Equating Zionism with Racism The Story of Raphael Lemkin Double Standards & Natan Sharansky’s 3 D’s of Antisemitism Iran’s Recent Strikes on Israel Anti-Jew bias in Human Right Watch Al-Ahli Hospital Hamas Terror Tunnels Elite University Presidents Criticized for Antisemitism Hearing Responses Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell

Jul 1

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish A VERY special episode!! Julie Platt — lifelong Jewish leader, philanthropist, Chairwoman of Jewish Federations of North America– and Jonah’s mom! — joins Jonah for the highly anticipated Season One finale of Being Jewish . Her tenure as Chairwoman of the Diaspora’s largest philanthropic organization has seen Julie lead the Jewish community through Covid, the war in Ukraine, the horrors of October 7th and its aftermath, Israel’s war with Iran, and more. Through these crises and her decades of leadership, Julie has amassed a lifetime of wisdom and experience that she generously and candidly shares with Jonah and the BJJP community. If you’ve ever asked, “What can I do to help?” — this is the episode for you. Julie offers rich stories, practical insights, and inspiring advice to power up the leader in each of us. In this dynamic and heartfelt episode, Jonah and Julie dive into: ✡️ Why and how to be a leader 🏕️ Why Jewish Summer Camp is more than just fun — it’s formative 🌍 All the big Jewish orgs– AJC, ADL, JFNA, FJC, JDC, Hillel, Prizmah, The Jewish Agency– and how they’re trying to work together as never before 🇮🇱 When Julie received Israel’s highest civilian honor from President Isaac Herzog 🎓 Campus antisemitism in America — and how as interim board president, Julie helped steer the University of Pennsylvania through the most chaotic period in the school’s history 😂 A hilarious and personal peek inside Jonah and Julie’s own family dynamic It’s a finale full of heart, humor, and hope — guaranteed to leave you empowered, emboldened, and inspired to be a leader, even from the comfort of your own home. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Interns: Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb Sign Up For “One Mitzvah A Day” MENTIONED IN EPISODE Julie Platt’s Legacy at JFNA JFNA (Jewish Federations of North America) Julie Platt Receives Presidential Medal of Honor in Israel Who is Eric J. Fingerhut: President & CEO of JFNA JFNA’s Aid Efforts in Ukraine Hakarat Hatov Thanking The River: Moses & The Concept of Hakarat Hatov Secure Community Network What is LiveSecure? Understanding the Jewish Protective & Security Initiative Birthright Partners with JFNA to Bring Volunteers to Israel AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) Jews Marching For Israeli Hostages Burned & Attacked in Boulder, Colorado Sarah Milgrim & Yaron Lischinsky Murdered By Assailant in DC Nearly 300,000 People Rally in D.C. for Israel & Hostages (November 2023) Combat Antisemitism Movement The Legacy of Robert M. Beren, Julie Platt’s Father Camp Ramah - Jewish Sleepaway Camp The Long Term Impacts of Jewish Summer Camp Foundation For Jewish Camp One Happy Camper - Program To Help Fund Jewish Summer Experiences Hillel International Prizmah: Center For Jewish Day Schools Roughly 15 Percent of Jewish Kids Attend Jewish Summer Camp Jewish Summer Camps Affected by COVID The Jewish Agency For Israel American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee Who Is Kathy Manning? Former JFNA Chair/North Carolina Congresswoman Jewish Together & The Covid Relief Effort Conference of Presidents What is ADL? Anti-Defamation League What is AJC? American Jewish Community University of Penn President Liz McGuill Resigns Over Antisemitism Mishandlings Late Texas governor Ann Richards Dr. Larry Jameson - Current President of University of Pennsylvania

Jun 24

Thank you to Jacob Fenton & Phil Kastel for sponsoring this episode, in honor of the lives lost during the Shoah, and the blessed lives who endured. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jonah sits down with Israeli powerhouse Noa Tishby — author of Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth , former Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism, producer of HBO’s In Treatment , and one of the most influential voices in modern Jewish advocacy. From the get-go, they explore a hard truth: Ending antisemitism is not a tangible goal to achieve, but a context in which we live. Together, Jonah and Noa dive deep into: 🇮🇱 Noa’s unique journey from Israeli stardom to Hollywood success 🕍 The key differences between Israeli and American Jewish identity 📕 Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew , the book she co-wrote with NFL star Emmanuel Acho 🔥 Noa’s take on the Iran threat, Gaza war, and what's happening in Judea & Samaria 📺 Behind-the-scenes on how she brought Peabody-winning series In Treatment to HBO 📸 The story behind her viral celebrity Hanukkah videos with Gwyneth Paltrow, Mila Kunis, Gal Gadot, Tiffany Haddish, Van Jones, and Cindy Crawford 🎓Anti-Jew bigotry, Nova survivors, and having an impact on college campuses 📺 Plus: Noa’s must-watch TV picks, personal stories, laughs, and more This is a no holds barred, no B.S. conversation – the Jewish advocacy crossover episode you’ve been waiting for! Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Interns: Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb Sign Up For “One Mitzvah A Day” Learn More About Noa Tishby https://www.noatishby.com/ Israel: A Simple Guide To Understanding The Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noa Tishby Noa’s Favorite Follows on Instagram @AWiderFrame @HenMazzig @MichaelRappaport MENTIONED IN EPISODE Sarah Hurwitz on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Cain & Abel Exodus 23:5 Deuteronomy 22:4 What Are the 613 Mitzvot? What Is The Talmud? Rabbi Hillel’s Words: If I am not for me, who will be for me? Follow Zach Sage Fox on Instagram Words From Rabbi Tarfon Talmudic Teaching: All of Israel Are Responsible For One Another Jonah Discusses “March of The Living” Uncomfortable Conversations With A Jew by Noa Tishby & Emmanuel Acho Noa Tishby Launches “Voices of October 7th” Tour Noa Tishby’s IMDB Page Noa Tishby’s Role As Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism & The Delegitimization of Israel Meet Michal Cotler-Wunsch, Israel’s Current Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism & The Delegitimization of Israel Bennett-Lapid Government SECCA (Special Envoys & Coordinators Combating Antisemitism) Understanding Israel’s Judicial Overhaul Understanding the “Override Clause” in Israel’s Judicial Reform/Overhaul Noa Tishby Ousted From Envoy Position in Israel Israel’s Netanyahu’s Return To Power in 2022 Noa Tishby’s Op-Ed for YNet About Israel’s Judicial Overhaul Explaining Mahdism Mahdism & Iran’s Desired Destruction of Israel Noa Tishby’s Event in Atlanta with Israel ParaSport - 2024 Jews in the Quran History of the Kibbutz Movement The Story of Degania (Israel’s First Kibbutz) Noa Tishby Visits Degania (Her Grandmother’s Kibbutz) Ramat Aviv Gimmel (Israeli Series Noa Starred In)

Jun 17

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish David Baddiel — comedian, author, public intellectual, and the UK’s most outspoken Jewish voice — joins Jonah to unpack the core ideas behind his groundbreaking book Jews Don’t Count . With his characteristic wit and unflinching eye for truth, Baddiel deconstructs contemporary anti-Jew racism, explaining how it functions, its origins, why it persists in “progressive” spaces, how it’s different from traditional antisemitism, and why Jews are so often excluded from conversations about representation, identity, and minority status. 💬 Topics include: The double standards in how antisemitism is treated compared to other forms of racism Baddiel’s confusing Jewish upbringing and identity struggles His family’s escape from Nazi Germany and his grandfather’s unjust internment on the Isle of Man Antisemitism in UK football culture What it means to be a “Non-Zionist” Baddiel’s atheist yearning for divine comfort aka The God Desire His podcast with Muslim politician Sayeeda Warsi: A Jew and a Muslim Go There 🎧 And why “Jews don’t count” as a minority when it comes to media representation on shows like Friends and Seinfeld 📺 This is a must-watch conversation for anyone interested in understanding contemporary antisemitism , generational trauma , and the challenges of fighting anti-Jew racism in today’s complex “woke” climate. Like, subscribe, and share to help us keep these important conversations going. Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Interns: Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb Sign Up For “One Mitzvah A Day” MENTIONED IN EPISODE Jews Don’t Count by David Baddiel Jews Don’t Count Documentary (For Prime/BBC Select) The God Desire by David Baddiel My Family: A Memoir by David Baddiel The Secret Purposes by David Baddiel Watch The Infidel on Tubi David Baddiel: October 7th Was A Pogrom, I Couldn’t Ignore It Haaretz Article: ‘Jews Are A Glitch In The Matrix’ Jeremy Corbyn & Antisemitism in The UK’s Labour Party Antisemitism in the U.K. Has Grown Over the Past Decade A Muslim & A Jew Go There Clips from David Baddiel’s Episode of Who Do You Think You Are? People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn Being Jewish with Jonah Platt (Dara Horn Episode) Israel: A Simple Guide To The Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noa Tishby George Orwell’s Politics & The English Language How Tottenham Became The “Jewish” Football Team in Englan d No Room for Racism - Premier League anti-racism program The Y Word Film by David Baddiel (About Anti-Jewish Racism in British Football ) Jeremy Irons Reads T.S. Eliot’s Poetry Burbank With A Baedeker by T.S. Eliot T.S. Eliot & The Jews Holocaust Survivors Living Below The Poverty Line in Los Angeles Dara Horn on the Jews of Harbin, China Mumbai Terror Attacks Target Jews Schrödinger’s Cat Theory Who Is Theodor Herzl (Founding Father of Zionism)? The Long Ugly History Behind “The Jews Will Not Replace Us” What Is The Great Replacement Theory? ADL Explains Why We Should Retire The Word ‘Antisemitism’ with Jonah Platt Tree of Life Shooting Motivated by Racist Jew Hate Rachel Dolezal: Woman Pretending To Be Black

Jun 10

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Auburn Men's Basketball head coach Bruce Pearl joins Jonah for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about life, leadership, and faith, only a few weeks after leading Auburn to their second NCAA Final Four. A legendary figure in college basketball, Coach Pearl opens up about his Jewish heritage, his decision to speak up for the Israeli hostages in the middle of the NCAA March Madness Tournament, his ideas for the Middle East post-Gaza/Israel war, and his mission to build bridges between different communities of faith around the world. 🎙️ Other topics include: The Jewish Evangelical Christian Alliance Interfaith marriage The truth about Palestine and Qatar Real-World coaching scenarios Being a Jewish coach in Alabama What’s broken in American Jewish education Whether you're passionate about sports, Judaism, or geopolitics, this episode offers a rare and inspiring look at the intersection of athletics, identity, and advocacy. Sign Up For “One Mitzvah A Day” Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Interns: Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb MENTIONED IN EPISODE Bruce Pearl Coaching Bio What is the Hebrew Word “Kavana?” Coach Bruce Pearl Uses Post-Game Conference to Speak Up for Eden Alexander | Video + Article Adi Alexander Reacts to Auburn Coach’s Comments About His Son Israeli President Isaac Herzog Thanks Coach Bruce Pearl Jewish Wedding Traditions Explained Three Jewish Basketball Coaches Reach The Final Four The 1943 Alabama Resolution on Israel No Genocide in Gaza Myth: Israel is An Apartheid State Arabs in Israel Make Up Nearly A Quarter of Healthcare & Medical Workers Israel Removes Jews Out of Gaza in 2005 Jewish Graves Disassembled in Gaza During 2005 Withdrawal What is Mount Moriah & Why is It Significant to Judaism? What is Gethsemane? Jewish Holy Sites in Judea & Samaria/West Bank What is Nakba? Britain, France, Canada release joint statement against Israel Golda Meir quote Qatar Funds Hamas Bruce Pearl Calls On The World to “Wake Up” Yaron Lischinsky & Sarah Milgrim Murdered in DC by Terrorist Who Shouted “Free Palestine” BBC & NBC Report Erroneous Statistics About Babies in Gaza Abdul Basheer transfers to play basketball at Auburn University Jonah’s monologue about struggling with God Jonah and Sarah Hurwitz talk Shavuot Jonah’s monologue on “Going Full Jew” Jonah talks Shavuot with Tessa Veksler and Eden Yadegar Jonah’s episode with Chris Caresnone What is the Significance of Shavuot? What is The Zohar? Sacred Kabbalistic Text Dan Senor’s Podcast “Call Me Back” with Guest Rachel Goldberg-Polin (Shavuot Discussion) The Book of Ruth (Sacred Jewish Text) Understanding King David Why Do We Study Torah on Shavuot?

Jun 3

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jonah Platt sits down with celebrated author André Aciman, the literary voice behind the beloved novel Call Me By Your Name, in this intimate and illuminating conversation. Known for his lyrical prose and deep explorations of longing, identity, and exile, Aciman opens up about his Sephardic Jewish heritage, his family's displacement from Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Spain, and the Dalmatian Coast, and how a lifelong sense of otherness has shaped his storytelling. Together, they dive into the emotional layers of young love, memory, and spiritual yearning that define Aciman’s most iconic works. He also shares behind-the-scenes insights into his latest book, Room on the Sea , and teases what’s next in his creative journey. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his world, this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of our most thoughtful contemporary writers. Watch the episode on YouTube here! https://youtu.be/kVGjzdl2nEQ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Sign Up For “One Mitzvah A Day” MENTIONED IN EPISODE Darwin’s Finches & What It Means About Evolution Evolutionary Theory & Natural Selection Explained Charles Darwin’s Exploration on the HMS Beagle Jews of Discretion by Andre Aciman Andre Aciman’s CUNY Profile Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman Call Me By Your Name Book Review by The New York Times Find Me by Andre Aciman Preorder Room on The Sea by Andre Aciman Listen to Room on The Sea on Audiobook Listen to The Gentleman From Peru by Andre Aciman Listen to Mariana by Andre Aciman Roman Year: A Memoir by Andre Aciman Out of Egypt by Andre Aciman False Papers by Andre Aciman Harvard Square by Andre Aciman Eight White Nights by Andre Aciman Watch Call Me By Your Name Film What is Ladino? Understanding the Spanish-Judeo Language Who Are Sephardic Jews? Jewish Population in Egypt The Fascinating History of Jews in Egypt Who Was Gamal Abdel Nasser (Former President of Egypt)? Who Are The Coptic Christians of Egypt? History of Jewish Expulsion from the Middle East & North Africa Who was poet John Keats? The Non-Catholic Cemetery in Rome New Yorker Article on the Writing of Marcel Proust

May 27

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Hey Podcast People! In this FLAVORFUL and heartfelt episode, Jonah is joined by rising social media sensation Chris Caresnone — a Black, non-Jewish content creator known for his hilarious multicultural food adventures and cross-cultural humor. Together, they dive into the v ibrant culinary culture of Los Angeles, sampling iconic Jewish foods from Sephardic pastries to Wagyu shawarma, and more. As Chris shares his transformational journey from unknown content creator to beloved bridge builder, the conversation turns to identity, resilience, and how food can break barriers and foster community. What you'll hear in this episode: Chris Chris Caresnone’s unique path through the world of digital content A tour of Jewish culinary traditions through a modern lens Real talk about multiculturalism, belonging, and personal growth A hilarious food-focused game Jonah invented just for Chris! Sneak peeks into Chris's next delicious destinations Whether you're a foodie, a fan of Jewish culture, or just love a good origin story with laughs and heart, this episode delivers. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/R5MtH0a5FW0 Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Patrick Edwards & Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Sign Up For One Mitzvah A Day! The Four C’s - Episode 6 of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Chris Caresnone’s Instagram Chris Caresnone’s TikTok Page Borekas Sephardic Pastries Recapping Jonah’s Event at Am Shalom in Glencoe, Illinois Avi-Cue Chef Aviyad Yalin & Avi Cue Kenny Hamilton on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Jonah Discusses His Journey with ADHD

May 24

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish We're dropping in a compelling conversation from the Unholy podcast, hosted by Jonathan Freedland and Yonit Levi, featuring our very own Jonah Platt. Jonah dives into the need for stronger Jewish community security, the tensions within families and institutions, and how Hollywood and college campuses are wrestling with Jewish identity. He also shares why he sees signs of a modern Jewish renaissance—and what gives him hope. This thoughtful, wide-ranging interview reflects the heart of Being Jewish: honest dialogue, cultural insight, and voices that matter. Tune in and share—it’s one you won’t want to miss. Connect with UnHoly https://www.instagram.com/unholypodcast/ https://linktr.ee/unholypod

May 20

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish The Canadian Queen of Cartoons is in the house! Legendary voice actor Tara Strong has created some of the most iconic characters of all time—Timmy Turner (The Fairly OddParents), Bubbles (Powerpuff Girls), Raven (Teen Titans), Twilight Sparkle (My Little Pony), and Dil Pickles (Rugrats)— now she’s speaking out as herself . In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah and Tara sit down for a candid and courageous conversation about using your voice—on and off the screen. Tara opens up about what it’s like to be a proud Jewish woman in the entertainment industry—navigating the intersection of celebrity, activism, and antisemitism in 2025. With humor, heart, and an unapologetic sense of self, she shares the personal cost of standing up for Israel, the vitriol she’s received online, and why she refuses to stay silent. Watch this episode on YouTube at: YouTube.com/@BeingJewishPodcast We dive deep into: ✅ Tara’s Jewish roots and her journey to spiritual empowerment ✅ The backlash—and unexpected support—after Tara spoke out on October 7th ✅ Tara’s loving & meaningful connection to the neurodivergent community ✅ The Jewish takes on classic cartoon characters you never knew you needed! Connect with our guest! Follow Tara Strong https://www.instagram.com/tarastrong https://x.com/tarastrong Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editors: Nathan Wheatley & Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Tara Strong’s VO Organization: Voicelings Tara Strong’s IMDB Profile Tara Strong’s Speech About March of The Living Tara Strong’s Statement on IG After October 7th Tara Strong’s Statement on X After October 7th Gail Simmons on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Jonah Platt Speaks at Book of Life Event in Toronto Tara Strong & Jodi Benson Sing Song From The Little Mermaid Sequel Tara’s 2025 Passover Seder Tara Post About Jewish Solidarity in May 2021 Middle East Film & Comic Con Majdanek Concentration Camp Hannah Senez’s poem/song “Eli Eli” (performed by Netanela) Children of Peace: Organization Promoting Israeli-Palestinian Coexistence Hand-in-Hand Schools: Jewish-Arab School Program in Israel Tara Strong “Boxtown” Fallout One Mitzvah A Day Dani Bowman from Love on the Spectrum Danimation Entertainment Watch Love on the Spectrum on Netflix Remembering Noya Dan: Hamas Victim Who Was on The Spectrum Rachel Goldberg-Polin Joins Tara Strong on IG Live To Discuss Hostages Tara Strong’s Partner Willie Strong & Their Farm

May 13

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jewish college students are standing up—and they’re not backing down. In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah sits down with two outstanding Jewish student leaders: Tessa Veksler (former UCSB Student Body President) and Eden Yadegar (Columbia University senior). These passionate advocates open up about what it's really like to be Jewish students facing antisemitism on college campuses today, no matter what you might see (or not!) on the news. Armed with their voices, courage, and personal histories as daughters of immigrants who escaped anti-Jewish regimes abroad, they’re reclaiming Jewish identity, challenging misinformation and demanding visibility, safety, and truth. And they’re doing it all in some of the most charged environments in higher education. Watch this episode on YouTube at: YouTube.com/@BeingJewishPodcast We dive deep into: ✅ The shocking and pervasive rise of Jew hatred on college campuses ✅ The difference between more assimilated American Jews and those from families who fled persecution ✅ What Jewish student leaders are doing well — and where we need to go from here ✅ Engagement with the World Zionist Congress and global Jewish identity ✅ What inspires the next generation of Jewish advocates and how YOU can make a difference Whether you're a Jewish student, parent, educator, or ally, this episode offers honest insight, personal stories, and empowering takeaways. This episode is sponsored by PJ Library, the amazing non-profit that sends FREE age-appropriate Jewish storybooks and activities every single month to families with kids age 0-12. Did we mention, it’s free! Sign up today at pjlibrary.org/Jonah Connect with our guests! Follow Eden Yadegar on Instagram @edenyadegar Follow Tessa Veksler on Instagram @tessaveksler Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Sign Up for PJ Library To Receive Free Jewish Children's Books: www.pjlibrary.org/jonah Eden Yadegar’s AISH Profile Tessa Veksler’s AISH Profile Students Supporting Israel (SSI) - On-Campus Organization October 8th Film “We’re Not Going Anywhere” Featuring Tessa Veksler College Tour ADL’s Report on Antisemitism at Columbia University Federal Civil Rights Complaint Against UCSB (On Behalf of Tessa Veksler) Recall Petition Against Student Body President Tessa Veksler Filed at UCSB Eden Yadegar Files Suit Against Columbia University “Jewish Joy is Resistance” Bracelet NCSY Teen Trips What is the Kotel? (Wailing Wall in Israel) Going Full Jew with Jonah Platt Tessa’s Post on October 9th, 2023 Columbia University Suspends SJP Chapter in 2023 What is Columbia University Apartheid Divest? Families of Hostages Sue Columbia University Groups over Alleged Ties to Hamas Former Hostage Shlomi Ziv Reveals Hamas Told Him They Provided Financial Support to Student Groups Hostage Edan Alexander Finally Released, May 12th, 2025 World Zionist Congress Wilshire Boulevard Temple What is Tahdig? (Eden’s Favorite Dish From Iran) What are Pelmeni? (Tessa’s Favorite Dish from Russia)

May 6

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown ( Parade , The Last Five Years , 13 ) joins Jonah for a raw and thought-provoking conversation about what it means to be Jewish in American theater today. From the complexities of Jewish pride and representation to the discomfort he feels being labeled “America’s greatest Jewish composer,” Jason opens up like never before. The two dive into Jason’s legendary career, exploring the cultural impact of his shows and how Jewish themes have shaped and challenged his work. Jason shares intimate reflections on his relationships with Broadway icons Hal Prince and Alfred Uhry, the artistic tension between creative integrity and commercial success, and how he’s always felt like an outsider, even within the institutions and communities where he “should” feel at home. If you care about Broadway, authentic storytelling, identity, or what it means to stay rooted as an artist in turbulent times, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Watch this episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishOfficial - https://youtu.be/x74YTgGNc_c Connect with Sharaka Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharakango/ Connect with Luai Ahmed Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justluai Connect with Jonathan Elkhoury Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jon_elk Instagram Highlights from Jonah’s Trip with Sharaka to Poland https://www.instagram.com/p/DI5w6Dbxmou/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Sharaka: A Partnership for Moderate Arabs Seeking Dialogue with Jews & Israelis Understanding the Abraham Accords See Jonah Platt at Chai Tech in NYC Hear Jonah Platt at Am Shalom in Glencoe, IL Hear Jonah at UJA’s Westchester Celebration 2015 The Last Five Years on Broadway Shiksa Goddess (From The Last Five Years ) Performed by Jeremy Jordan The Shmuel Song (From The Last Five Years ) Performed by Jonathan Bailey The Story of Leo Frank - the Inspiration Behind Parade National Tour of Parade Who is Broadway Producer Hal Prince? Who is Writer Alfred Uhry? Who is Choreographer Rob Ashford? Donmar Warehouse Production of Parade Who is Performer & Director Michael Arden? Parade at City Center Jason Robert Brown Developing Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil for Broadway Bridges of Madison County Musical The Last Five Years Film 13! The Musical Movie Who is Musical Director Andrew Resnick? Watch Spread on Tubi Honeymoon in Vegas Chanukah Suite by Jason Robert Brown Maneschewitz Merengue by Jason Robert Brown Yiddish Theater in NYC Stuart Weitzman on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Who is Broadway’s Daisy Prince? 88 Keys Piano Bar Songs For A New World by Jason Robert Brown Jackie Tohn on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Apr 29

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish News anchor Dana Bash is the face of CNN’s biggest political nights, a trusted voice in American journalism—and deeply, proudly Jewish. In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt , Jonah and Dana sit down for an unfiltered conversation about media, politics, identity, and what it means to show up as a Jew. Dana shares the harrowing true story of her grandparents' survival during the Holocaust, revealing the deep personal history that shapes her today. She also opens up about what it was like reporting live on October 7th, 2023, and how the weight of the moment impacted her both professionally and personally. Dana dishes on the infamous 2024 presidential debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden that changed the course of American history, and offers her assessment of today’s Democrat and Republican parties. Plus, Dana offers a candid look at how Fox News changed the public’s trust in the media, reshaping the landscape of broadcast journalism, and shares the inspiring story of how she got her start at CNN — from the tape library to one of the most trusted faces in news today. If you're interested in Jewish identity, Holocaust stories, journalism, media trust, or behind-the-scenes moments at CNN, this episode is a must-listen! Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast on YouTube! https://youtu.be/Fo5fFkBni-s Connect with Dana Bash Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danabashcnn/?hl=en X - https://www.instagram.com/danabashcnn/?hl=en Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O' Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE America’s Deadliest Election Written by Dana Bash & David Fisher Sarah Hurwitz on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Freedom Seder Featuring Van Jones 2025 Project Shema U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer Focused on Bringing Edan Alexander Home Dana Bash’s Mother & Jewish Educator Francie Weinman Schwartz CNN Special Report: Rising Hate: Antisemitism in America Tree of Life Shooting Poway Synagogue Shooting Colleyville Shooting FDR’s Limits on Jewish Migration During the Holocaust Why Did FDR Abandon Europe’s Jews? “Going Full Jew” with Jonah Platt Jewish Camp: Harlam Jewish Camp: Camp Ramah Who is Jeremy Bash? Dana’s Ex-Husband Highlights From the Biden Vs. Trump Debate in June 2024 Nic Robertson - CNN’s International Diplomatic Editor Meet Jonathan Greenblatt: CEO & National Director for the ADL What Does L’dor Vador Mean? Learn About Queen Esther in the Bible Sheryl Sandberg on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Apr 23

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish A Jew, Two Jewish Latinas, and a gay Latino mass shooting survivor walk into a podcast… and 3 of them are related! In this unique episode of Being Jewish , Jonah sits down with Arizona legislators Consuelo, Alma, and Daniel Hernandez —three powerhouse siblings shaping Arizona’s Democratic party. Together, they are living proof that representation matters—and that activism starts at home. 🕊️ Alma and Consuelo , the first Jewish Latinas electeds to American political history, share their intimate journeys of converting to Judaism—the backlash they’ve faced and how their experiences as women of color shape their tireless advocacy for inclusivity and equality for all. 🏛️ Daniel , known for his pivotal role in saving Congresswoman Gabby Giffords' life and currently running for Congress in Arizona’s 7th district Special Election, opens up about his life in public service, his commitment to his LGBTQ+ community, and his unbridled passion for Israel and Jewish culture - despite not technically being Jewish himself! This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a testament to what’s possible when you choose to show up, speak out, and lead with your full authentic self. Come get inspired! Watch the full episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishPodcast: https://youtu.be/1hYHlqW5DyY Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell MENTIONED IN EPISODE Support Daniel Hernandez's Run for Congress! Jewish-Muslim Ties in Azerbaijan Azerbaijan Becomes First Muslim Country to Define Antisemitism in Textbooks Jewish Federation’s Young Leadership Cabinet Germany’s Laws on Hate Speech Meaning Behind Dayenu Daniel Hernandez: The Intern Who Helped Rescue Gabby Giffords Hernandez Siblings Lead Bipartisan Trip To Israel Meet Rabbi Stephanie Aaron: The Rabbi Who Guided The Hernandez Siblings in Their Jewish Journey Alma Hernadez’s ZIONIST License Plate A Wider Bridge: An Organization for LGBT+ Jews Medical Crimes - The Experiments of Auschwitz Alma Hernandez with Her Late Father Holocaust Education Bill Passes Due To Alma Hernandez’s Advocacy Bills Passed by Alma Hernandez Bills Passed by Consuelo Hernandez Article: Why the LGBT Community Opposes Israel, According to a Gay Zionist Tel Aviv Pride Ritchie Torres on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Arizona LGBTQ Caucus (Co-founded by Daniel Hernandez Jr.) Alma Hernandez Escorted Out By Police After Anti-Israel Protestors Harrass Her

Apr 15

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish It’s Spring Break! So this week we’re bringing you a replay of our Webby & RCC Wilbur Award-winning episode with Van Jones - with whom Jonah will once again be sitting down with for a Passover “Freedom Seder” this week, almost one year to the day from the first Seder where they met. We’ll be back with all new-episodes next week! Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast: https://youtu.be/ZR0qUIUGAKM Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell

Apr 8

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Shakespeare hated Jews?? In Part 2 of Jonah Platt’s fascinating conversation with acclaimed author Dara Horn, they dive deep into: 📚 The antisemitism embedded in classic literature — from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice to Roald Dahl’s The Witches 📖 Dara’s entire body of fiction work and what inspires her stories 🍷 Her famously elaborate Passover Seders 🎉 A slew of other fun and thought-provoking Jewish questions 🐐 And of course… her new children’s book One Little Goat — out now! This episode is a must-listen and watch for lovers of Jewish culture, literature, and tradition — and for anyone seeking deeper insights into how Judaism shows up in the stories we tell and the ones we inherit. Watch the episode at @BeingJewishPodcast : https://youtu.be/-Hv3F7nV2M8! All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Mentioned In The Episode GET DARA’S NEW BOOK! One Small Goat: A Passover Catastrophe by Dara Horn: https://a.co/d/a54x1wz www.darahorn.com Dara Horn is Obsessed with Passover - Hadassah Magazine Article Chad Gadya Lyrics Explained Capacity : A Comic by Theo Ellsworth People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn In The Image by Dara Horn All Other Nights by Dara Horn Eternal Life by Dara Horn Pre Order As A Jew by Sarah Hurwitz The Jewish History of Tzfat, Israel Who Doesn’t Love Roald Dahl? By Dara Horn Roald Dahl’s Active Antisemitism https://www.roalddahlmuseum.org/our-story/anti-racism-statement/ https://forward.com/fast-forward/349771/roald-dahls-family-has-apologized-for-his-jew-hatred-what-were-the-5-worst/ Dr. Nathan Winter’s Book: Jewish Education in a Pluralist Society Dr. Einat Wilf Yossi Klein Halevi Author Matti Friedman Yiddish Hero Avraham Sutzkever Nuremberg Trial Testimony of Avrom Sutzkever Book: From The Vilna Ghetto to Nuremberg: Memoir and Testimony by Abraham Sutzkever & Justin Cammy The Paper Brigade & The Holocaust YIVO Institute for Jewish Research

Apr 1

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Is the world more comfortable with dead Jews than living ones? In this powerful conversation, bestselling author Dara Horn ( People Love Dead Jews ) joins Being Jewish with Jonah Platt to discuss the origins of antisemitism, how it manifests today—including on college campuses—and why Holocaust education may be doing Jews more harm than good. Dara and Jonah also explore the role of Jews as history’s great non-conformists, the truth about Zionism and… ancient Greek reverse circumcisions?! If you want to understand the real story behind antisemitism, Jewish resilience, Israel, and why these issues matter more than ever, don’t miss this episode! Check out Dara Horn’s newest book, One Little Goat: A Passover Catastrophe Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZxS8iATYQqY All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Nathan Wheatley); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Mentioned In The Episode: www.DaraHorn.com Dara Horn’s newest book, One Little Goat: A Passover Catastrophe People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn Is Holocaust Education Making Antisemitism Worse? By Dara Horn Dara Horn’s Article: Becoming Anne Frank Adventures with Dead Jews Podcast Who is Wilhelm Marr? Jewish Holidays & The Land of Israel A Basic History of Soviet Antisemitism The Jewish Travel Guide That Inspired “The Green Book” Pogroms & Exterminations of Jews in Ukraine

Mar 25

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Emmy and Grammy-winning comedian Tiffany Haddish opens up about discovering Judaism as an adult and having her “Black Mitzvah” at age 40! She covers all her toughest struggles in this raw and unfiltered conversation—from growing up in foster care, her mother’s tragic accident, to fighting her way to the top of Hollywood stardom. But one of her biggest personal revelations? Discovering her Jewish roots. From sleeping in her car to selling out Netflix comedy specials to headlining blockbuster movies like “Girl Trip,” Tiffany gets real about her journey to embracing Judaism, reuniting with her African Jewish father, and what it means to navigate the world as both Black and Jewish. From Bat Mitzvah dancer to a Bat Mitzvah herself, what has faith taught her about resilience, success, and staying true to herself? This is one episode you don’t want to miss. EXPLICIT LANGUAGE * This episode features more F bombs than usual son we just wanted to give y'all a heads up! Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5QccpVosg3A All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Mentioned the Episode Tiffany Haddish’s Funny & Fearless Tour I Curse You With Joy by Tiffany Haddish The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish She Ready Foundation for Youth in Foster Care (Tiffany Haddish’s Nonprofit) Tiffany Haddish’s Black Mitzvah (Netflix Special ) The Laugh Factory Comedy Camp Tiffany Haddish & DJ Timbo’s Behind The Scenes Footage from Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Watch “Girls Trip” The Asmara Synagogue in Eritrea Tiffany Haddish Opens Up About Reconnecting with Her Father Jewish History in Eritrea Eritrean War The Last Jews of Eritrea Sarah Silverman’s Rabbi Sister Susan Silverman Backlash to Tiffany Haddish’s Trip To Israel Tiffany’s Torah Portion: Jacob’s Ladder

Mar 18

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Female Business Leader Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Facebook and VP of Google, opens up about God, grief, resilience, and ambition. She discusses her experience in Big Tech, embracing her Jewish identity, the terrifying silence from allies after October 7, and the harrowing stories of sexual violence against Israeli women in her documentary “Screams Before Silence.” Sheryl also reflects on the lessons from her books Lean In and Option B , and shares never-before-told stories of how she found strength after the tragic loss of her husband. Watch this episode on YouTube: @BeingJewishPodcast All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Mentioned the Episode Sheryl Sandberg’s Documentary: Screams Before Silence Screams Before Silence Trailer Sheryl Sandberg’s Book “Lean In” Sheryl Sandberg’s Book “Option B” Mahmoud Khalil’s Arrest Who Were the Refuseniks? Sheryl Sandberg’s Blended Family with Tom Bernthal Sheryl Sandberg’s Involvement in Tech What is BBYO? Women & College Degree Statistics Shivah & Shloshim Mourning Rituals Timeline for Jewish Mourning Sandberg-Bernthal Wedding Sheryl Sandberg Leaves META CNN’s Jake Tapper Speaks Up About How Hamas Used Sexual Violence on Ocotber 7th Amit Soussana Speaks Publicly About Being Held & Abused in Gaza https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GLKA1CnnCA Naama Levy Returns Home To Israel After 477 Days in Hamas Captivity AEPi Fraternity Hosts Screenings of Screams Before Silence What is Social Proof? Van Jones on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt Kate Mishkin’s Podcast: Shofar, So Good!

Mar 11

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hlknXe8OSAU Hollywood and Broadway producing legend Marc Platt ( Wicked, La La Land, Legally Blonde ) sits down with his son Jonah Platt for an intimate and powerful conversation on Jewish identity, Hollywood, and storytelling . In this special episode, Marc shares: 📍 Growing up Jewish in segregated Baltimore and the values of justice, inclusivity, and giving back instilled by his parents 🎭 The Jewish themes in Wicked and what it’s like to produce a once-in-a-lifetime Broadway show 🎬 Developing the groundbreaking film Philadelphia and pushing for social change in Hollywood 🏆 His experience at the 97th Academy Awards and how the industry is evolving, and not always for the better 🎤 Why so many Hollywood Jews have been silent since October 7th—and his take on private vs. public responses to antisemitism 🕊️ How trauma and loss deepened his connection to God and Jewish faith , shaping his outlook on life Marc’s legendary career in entertainment and deep-rooted Jewish values make for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation. If you love theater, film, Jewish culture, and honest discussions about Hollywood , this episode is for you! 🔔 Like, comment & subscribe for more deep dives into Jewish life, history, and entertainment! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDHMkJLWNyQMS9HM9Y4N2bw?sub_confirmation=1 All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Mentioned in Episode “Wicked” Novel by Gregory Maguire 2021 Study Shows One-Quarter of LA’s Jews “Minimally Involved” with Judaism Monologue From Episode 23 of “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” - “If You’re Still Silent About Antisemitism, Watch This!” Adam’s Sandler’s “Eight Crazy Nights” Adam Sandler’s “Zohan” Adam Sandler’s “Hanukkah Song” You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah Jonah’s Article for Variety Kieran Culkin’s Acceptance Speech Adrien Brody’s Acceptance Speech Acceptance Speech For Team Behind “No Other Land” Marc Platt’s 20 Year Road To “Wicked” Movie Hebrew Free Loan Association in Baltimore Gwynn Oak Amusement Park The Munich Hostage Crisis Jewish Federations of North America UPenn Hillel Lecha Dodi Prayer (Prayer for the Sabbath Bride) Watch “Philadelphia” Film AIDS & Job Discrimination Watch “We Will Dance Again” Marc Platt & Scooter Braun Host “We Will Dance Again” Screenings Jonah’s video on Artists4Ceasefire Marc Platt’s Favorite Yiddish Word: Sechel “The Fox Hunt” by Mohammed Al Samawi “How To Train Your Dragon” - Live Action Trailer

Mar 4

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with Australian broadcaster Erin Molan, an award-winning journalist, television presenter, and outspoken advocate for Israel. Known for her fearless commentary and sharp insights, Erin shares her unexpected journey—from having no Jewish friends to becoming one of Israel’s strongest international allies. She opens up about her career transformation—from sports journalism, covering rugby and Australian football, to reporting on global affairs, terrorism, and the Israel-Gaza conflict. Erin discusses her decision to call out terrorism, challenge media bias against Israel, and stand in unapologetic support of the Jewish people when many others stayed silent. For the past 17 months, Molan has been an unwavering voice in the conversation on Israel and Gaza, driven by a deep sense of morality, her father’s influence, and her firsthand experience in Israel. She also shares insights from her recent meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, reflecting on the importance of allyship, media responsibility and combating misinformation. This must-watch interview explores the power of journalistic integrity, the challenges of speaking up in today’s media landscape, and what it truly means to stand against antisemitism and terrorism. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Our Guest Erin Molan: https://www.instagram.com/erin_molan/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Very helpful timeline of Historical Jew Hate Murder of Jews During Holocaust in Romania Erin’s Father General Jim Molan Erin Molan Meets Israel’s President Isaac Herzog General Jim Molan, Erin’s Father, Visits Israel & Gaza in 2015 Erin Molan’s Video: Hamas Are Responsible for Suffering of Innocent Palestinians Erin Molan unloads on UN official Francesca Albanese over 'insane' response Erin Molan’s Monologue on Sinwar’s Death A Timeline of Anti-Jewish Attacks in Australia Time Magazine: The Worst 45 MInute Film You Will Ever See (Raw Hamas Footage Screenings in Israel & Beyond) What is Erin’s Law? Molan Attributes Sky News Departure To “Budget” Erin Molan’s Trip to Israel https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/erin-the-magnificent/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMPBJDMRXck Erin Molan’s X Post About Her Stance on Israel and Terrorism Erin Molan on 69X Minutes - News Program on X

Feb 25

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish He’s a mogul, he’s a “macher” and most importantly … a mensch. Fashion designer and Jewish philanthropist Stuart Weitzman will steal your heart as he joins Jonah to discuss the two things most dear to his heart: Shoes and Jews. Beginning with an insightful conversation around career lessons and principles, Weitzman shares paramount advice on what it takes to be successful in nearly any industry or pursuit. Additionally, he shares his deep and unbreakable connection to Israel and the Jewish community worldwide. “When it comes to Israel, I laugh for them and I cry for them,” Weitzman says. “And I feel bad for anyone who doesn’t feel the same.” From participating in the Maccabiah games to speaking out against antisemitism on college campuses and building a Jewish museum in Spain, Weitzman’s connections and commitment to the Jewish cause is undeniable, and an inspiration to all. Kick off your shoes, grab a seat and check out this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Mask & Wig (UPenn Musical Improv Group) History of the I. Miller Shoe Store Hahn Shoes U.S. Shoe (Which Jonah’s Grandpa Ran) “The Origins of The Inquisition in Fifteenth Century Spain” by B. Netenyahu Stuart Weitzman’s Productions in Spain Jonah Platt Interviews Nobel Prize Winner Dr. Drew Weissman Broadway Musicals: A Jewish Legacy (PBS Documentary Weitzman Produced) The Hamas Charter/Covenant PLO Charter The Weitzman Museum Soon-to-Open Hispanic Jewish Museum in Madrid (March 2026) The Spanish Inquisition Jews in the Revolutionary Period Jews in Moorish Spain Fuego Dance Shoes Stuart Weitzman’s Collectibles Maccabi Games with Stuart Weitzman Stuart Weitzman named Maccabi USA Flag Bearer at 21st Maccabiah Opening Ceremonies Penn Lecturer Behind Grotesque Antisemitic Cartoons Controversy Behind Palestine Writes Festival At UPenn Liz Magill’s Downfall At UPenn Gigi Hadid & Stuart Weitzman’s Footwear Collaborations What is Shemini Atzeret? Stuart’s Cinderella Slippers

Feb 18

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Like many American Jews, formal religious education for Sarah Hurwitz ended with her Bat Mitzvah at age 13. But after an unbelievable career as a Speechwriter for some of the nation’s most influential Democratic leaders (including Hilary Clinton, President Barack Obama, and First Lady Michelle Obama), she found herself searching for a deeper meaning in life, only to discover that Judaism held all the wisdom for which she was looking– It was Here All Along , which is what Hurwitz named her brilliant book about her Jewish journey, the focus of her deep and thought provoking conversation with Jonah in this week's episode. They tackle the problems with modern Jewish education, the disappointing internalized self-hate of some American Jews, and the miraculous power of Jewish textual study. Hurwitz also opens up about her current college speaking tour, launched just days after the October 7th Hamas attacks, and shares invaluable advice for Jewish students and parents navigating the horrific anti-Jew climate on American campuses today. Rich with valuable insight, humor, and introspection, Sarah and Jonah bring their passion for the beauty of all things Jewish to this very special episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt . All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode “Here All Along” - Sarah Hurwitz Pre-order “As A Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame and Try to Erase Us” by Sarah Hurwitz “Nazi Germany & The Jews: Volume 1: The Years of Persecution” by Saul Friedlander “Nazi Germany & The Jews: Volume 2: The Years of Extermination” by Saul Friedlander “A Letter in the Scroll: Understanding Our Jewish Identity and Exploring the Legacy of the World’s Oldest Religion” by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks The British White Paper of 1939 & How it Halted Jewish Migration to Israel FDR & The Evian Conference Regarding Jews Jewish Enrollment At Harvard at Historic Low A Jewish Value: Argument For The Sake of Heaven Hillel International Al Gore’s “Lockbox” Speech Hadar Institute (For Torah Study) “The Heart of Torah: Volume 1” by Rabbi Shai Held Mijal Bitton Hashkiveinu Prayer Svara Yeshiva Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein Sefaria (Free Online Jewish Texts & Teachings)

Feb 11

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish One of the fundamental values in Judaism is Tikkun Olam , or “Repairing the world.” On this week’s episode, Jonah sits down with Dr. Drew Weissman, co-recipient of the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his creation of the life-saving Covid vaccine - talk about repairing the world, literally! Dr. Weissman teaches Jonah the basics of mRNA, the truth about RFK Jr., and the intersection of anti-vaxxers and antisemitism. Finally, a science class that definitely doesn’t feel like homework! Don’t miss hearing from humanity’s hero in this exclusive conversation, only on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Jewish Nobel Prize Winners Drew Weissman & Katalin Karikó Win The Nobel Prize in Medicine Dr. Drew Weissman Calls His Parents After Winning Nobel Prize Dr. Drew Weissman Receives The Harvey Prize in Israel RFK Junior’s Lawsuits Against Drug Companies What Is The National Institute of Health? Liz McGill Resigns From UPenn UPenn President Larry Jameson Calls For Anti-Israel Protestors to Disband Anti-Vaxxers and Antisemitism Dr. Drew Weissman Describes Himself As “More of a Daoist” Piers Morgan’s Interview with Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Feb 4

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish With over 50 million followers across platforms, “Baby” Ariel Martin is one TikTok’s first homegrown stars. Known for her high energy lip-sync videos and youthful antics, Ariel’s career took a sharp turn after October 7th, when she witnessed the explosion of anti-Jew hate around the world and the silence from friends she’d so often stood by in the past. In today’s conversation, Ariel sits down with Jonah to discuss her newfound advocacy, her unique Israeli/Latin American Jewish heritage, and her decision to double-tap into her Jewish identity and use her enormous platform to inspire and empower others every day. Providing both practical tools and personal anecdotes, Ariel proves herself to be a modern day Maccabee, embracing the responsibility of standing up for her people where so many others with similar careers have not. Tune in for this inspiring and insightful conversation you won’t hear anywhere, on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT. All things Jonah + Subscribe to Newsletter www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Ariel Martin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babyariel/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@babyariel?lang=en Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Romi Gonen (Along with other Israeli hostages) Return Home to Israel Kobe Bryant’s “Job’s Not Finished” Interview Female Hostages Forced to Wave To Crowds When Released Jerusalem Bus Bombing in 2003 Palestinian Prisoners Released in Exchange for Hostages Eight of the Hostages Set for Release in Phase One Already Dead Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: Fleur Hassan-Nahoon “Dreaming Out Loud” - Book by Ariel Martin What is Musical.ly? Baby Ariel’s “Stupid Hoe” Lip Sync Video (2025) Baby Ariel’s “Stupid Hoe” Lip Sync Video (2017) Nova Exhibition “Jews Don’t Count” by David Baddiel “People Love Dead Jews” by Dara Horn “Israel: A Simple Guide To The Most Misunderstood Country on Earth” by Noa Tishby “Here All Along” by Sarah Hurwitz Tel Aviv Institute HaNaor HaTzioni (Ariel’s Grandpa’s Zionist Youth Org) Baby Ariel’s Childhood Photo of her lighting candles Baby Ariel’s Childhood Photo of her with a Kiddush cup Trisha Paytas Trisha Paytas’ Israeli Husband

Jan 28

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Last year, Canadian Liberal Member of Parliament Anthony Housefather, a loud and proud Jewish political leader for many years, passionately denounced a virulently anti-Israel House resolution and even voted against his own party on it. His defiant and eloquent oration was the “speech heard ‘round the Jewish world,” inspiring others to take similar stands in their own communities. Today, Housefather joins Jonah to discuss the shocking challenges that face the Canadian Jewish community, while offering expert insights and genuine hope on how to move forward towards a safer, more stable future. Together, they discuss the importance of holding political parties accountable, pushing for change from within, and always being proud of who you are. They also chat about the truth behind Trudeau’s ouster, Montreal’s rich Jewish history, and bagels! Tune in for this eye-opening and enlightening conversation you won’t hear anywhere else than on BEING JEWISH WITH JONAH PLATT. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Anthony: https://www.instagram.com/anthony.housefather/ https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/parliamentary-secretaries/anthony-housefather Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Creative Associate: Rachel Stern; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Episode 3 of “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” Boundless Israel Survey: Zionism in Focus Episode 8 of “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” Etymology of Anti-Jewish Slurs Israeli Independence Publicly Traded Israeli Companies Episode 12 of “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” Guest Patricia Heaton Jeopardy (Season 34, Episode 121) Ritchie Torres on “Being Jewish with Jonah Platt” Anthony Housefather Campaign Sign Vandalized with Nazi Sign Trudeau Announces Plans To Resign Who is Canadian Parliament Member Marco Mendicino? Anthony Housefather’s Speech on Jewish Hate in Canada Who is Canadian Parliament Member Ben Carr? Which Candidates Might Replace Justin Trudeau? Canadian Parliament Member Michael Levitt Schwartz’s Deli Montreal The ADL Global 100: Index of Antisemitism Maccabi Sports USA Cote St. Luc Bagel Fairmount Bagel Montreal Dizz’s Bagels - Montreal St. Viateur Bagel Shop - Montreal

Jan 21

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Former NBA Defensive Player of the Year and NBA champion Metta Sandiford-Artest (formerly known as both Ron Artest and Metta World Peace) joins Jonah to delve into the complexities of what it means to be misunderstood, as Metta has been for much of his life, and as the Jewish community has been for centuries. Together, they explore Metta’s incredible personal growth journey, his desire to spread happiness, and his mission to better understand different cultures. Jonah also sheds light on Metta’s strong support for the Jewish community after October 7th, his tumultuous childhood, and the meaning behind each of his public name changes. And of course, we celebrate many of Metta’s most iconic basketball moments: from being drafted to the NBA right out of the Queensbridge projects, to the infamous "Malice at the Palace" to championship sealing game winners, this conversation has all your favorite hoop highlights. Tune in for a heartfelt and hilarious conversation with the one and only Metta Sandiford-Artest. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Metta: https://www.instagram.com/mettaworldpeace37/ https://x.com/MettaWorld37?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards and Mike O Brien); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Origin of Jewish slur Metta’s Article in the New York Post: Peace Can Only Come By Freeing Gaza From Hamas Gulf War in Iraq/Middle East in the Early 1990s Jews Talk Justice/Tel Aviv Institute Metta’s documentary - Quiet Storm: The Ron Artest Story 2009 NBA Playoff Highlights: Ron Artest vs the Lakers McDonald’s All American 1997 Long Island Lutheran Defeats LaSelle Metta tells the Circuit City story on Podcast P with Paul George Tahitian Treats Allegro Pizza Eliminates Late Night Hours Malice At The Palace Untold: Malice At The Palace - Documentary Game 5 2010 WCF- Ron Artest Game Winner v Phoenix Suns Ron Artest wins Kennedy Citizenship Award: ​​https://www.espn.com/los-angeles/nba/news/story?id=6431861

Jan 14

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this highly-anticipated episode of Being Jewish, Jonah speaks with New York Congressmen Ritchie Torres about a wide range of issues including anti-Israel hate, the future of the Democratic party, and the soul of America. Torres, who has devoted much of his 10+ year career in politics to fighting anti-Jew hate and defending the State of Israel, opens up about his trips to the Holy Land, the lessons learned there and the broad, pragmatic reasons behind his unwavering loyalty and support for the Jewish state and people. Together, Jonah and Torres discuss the Biden Administration’s handling of the ongoing war in the Middle East, their thoughts on Donald Trump’s incoming administration, and the challenges that may lie ahead. Throughout this conversation, Torres offers hope, insight, and even a few Yiddish and Hebrew gems! Be sure to check out this exclusive, high level interview you won’t find anywhere but here, on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Ritchie Torres https://www.instagram.com/ritchietorresny15/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Los Angeles Fires Speech & Quote by Martin Luther King Jr. Richard Sandler’s Book: Witness To A Prosecution: The Myth of Michael Milken Democratic Socialists Chapter Ask Candidates To Pledge Not To Travel To Israel Senator John Fetterman The Church of Holy Sepulchre Two Muslim Families Entrusted with Care of Church of Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem Jerusalem Open House - LGBT Center in Israel

Jan 7

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish We’re kicking off 2025 with a very special, first-ever LIVE episode of Being Jewish ! Filmed in front of a studio audience at the iconic CBS Television City, Jonah sits down with Tony nominee Josh Gad, TV/film star Ginnifer Goodwin and Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin in a must-see, brilliantly honest conversation on a wide array of Jewish and personal topics. From their very different Jewish upbringings, to interfaith marriages, to fighting anti-Jew bigotry, to the silence of Hollywood post October-7th, these Hollywood stars open up about their real lives and Jewish journeys like never before. There are lots of laughs, some tears, a few major revelations, and many deep insights into the Jewish experience we all can relate to. Don’t miss this supersized showbiz episode of Being Jewish that’s sure to leave you feeling energized and inspired! All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Josh Gad https://www.instagram.com/joshgad/ ‘In Gad We Trust: A Tell-Some’ Book Connect with Ginnifer Goodwin https://www.instagram.com/ginnifergoodwin/ Connect with Marlee Matlin https://www.instagram.com/themarleematlin/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell, and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Jewish Federation LA CBS Television City Marlee’s upcoming PBS documentary What is Kol Nidrei? Gutenberg! The Musical Josh Gad’s Instagram Post After October 7th Marlee Matlin’s Instagram Post After October 7th Ginnifer Goodwin’s First Post After 10/7 Bret Stephens on Becoming 10 Percent More Jewish Ginnifer Goodwin’s Speech at Temple Israel Congregation Bene Shalom (Deaf & Hearing Congregation) Deaf Presence in the IDF Josh Gad plays Tevye in High School Josh Gad’s Post on Antisemitism The Shoah Foundation Marlee’s Hannukah post Ginnifer Goodwin Speaks on Behalf of 4-Year-Old Israeli Hostage Josh Gad’s Comic “The Writer” Ginnifer Goodwin Bat Mitzvah Pic Rabbi Sharon Brous

Dec 24, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jewish law, or Halacha, is as ancient as it is timeless, providing a fertile ground for centuries of rigorous debate and discussion - and few enjoy this fundamental Jewish practice more than Haredi podcaster and billionaire real estate mogul David Lichtenstein. Together with Jonah, Lichtenstein, who runs the Lightstone Group and the acclaimed podcast Halacha Headlines , explains the different denominations within Judaism and how the Haredi, or ultra Orthodox, navigate Jewish law and life in a vastly secular world. From intermarriage to the internet, Sabbath observance to sexuality, Lichtenstein talks frankly and wisely about some of Judaism’s most taboo topics. Beyond this, Jonah and David explore the uniqueness of each human being and their mission on earth, how a strong moral compass guides you in both professional and personal challenges, and shed light on some of Judaism’s most sacred stories and teachings. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with David Lichtenstein https://www.instagram.com/halachaheadlines/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode District 51 Community Excellence Awards Rich Chavez Zbur Equality California Lightstone Group Acquires ExtendedStay David Lichtenstein on Financial Recovery & Bounceback California State Jewish Caucus Halacha Headlines Lightstone Group Definition of Haredi Understanding Jewish Denominations David Lichtenstein & The History of Lightstone Lightstone Rated As Top 40 Company in NYC Yeshivas Mir Jews & The Khmelnytsky Uprising Rabbi Akiva Eger Understanding the Talmud What Is The Mishnah? David Lichtenstein’s Books Halacha Headlines Episode About Child Molestation Halacha Headlines Episode About Non-Jews in a Non-Jewish World Statistics on Jews and Intermarriage AI Chatbot Convinces Teen To Commit Suicide

Dec 17, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Watch this episode on YouTube @BeingJewishPodcast Broadway director and arts activist Zhailon Levingston has been making waves in the New York theater scene through his ability to challenge audiences emotionally at the same time he is entertaining them. In this episode, Zhailon, who is not Jewish, describes his love of the very Jewish practice of “Havruta,” a collaborative method of rigorously debating ideas with a single partner over a long period of time, and how this intense intellectually wrestling is a far more productive method of bringing folks together than trying to get everyone to agree on the same positions. As artistic director of The Inheritance Theater Project, Levingston reveals deep insight into how collaborative playmaking can be a powerful technology for bringing disparate communities together. In this week’s episode, Levingston joins Jonah for an illuminating conversation on a number of deep and difficult topics, from Jewish and Black identity, to the Israel/Gaza war, to Gen Z’s struggles with social media, to the ideas of “Black Aliveness”. Don’t miss this complex, thought-provoking discussion you can only find right here, on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt ! All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald; Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; and Executive Assistant, Josie Rothschild. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Inheritance Theater Project Jon Adam Ross Dr. Rebecca Schorsch Havruta Meaning & Definition The Story of The Exodus James Baldwin Text About Black/Jewish Relations in 1968 Kevin Quashie on How to Read & Interpret Black Text Through “Aliveness” Juneteenth Seder Jonah Platt Speaks About Undiagnosed ADHD Douglas Lyons Chicken & Biscuits Play Table 17 Play The Normal Heart Play by Larry Kramer

Dec 10, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish 5-time James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author Michael Solomonov is famous for his groundbreaking & wildly popular Israeli cuisine for American palates, all of which he dishes on with Jonah in this week’s episode. A child of both Israel and America, Solomonov has made it his mission to bring Israeli culture to the fore by showcasing its diverse and delicious food, a quest that’s grown more complex since October 7th and the anti-Israel sentiments that have followed - even from his own staff. In this raw and heartfelt conversation, Solomonov also opens up about the death of his younger brother while serving in the IDF, overcoming addiction, the unifying power of food, and expert culinary tips you’ll only find here, on this week’s episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Michael Solomonov https://www.instagram.com/mikesolomonov/ https://www.instagram.com/zahavfoods https://www.instagram.com/jaffabar_philly/ Aviv Restaurant at 1 Hotel Southbeach https://www.instagram.com/1hotel.southbeach Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Graphic Designer Noah Bell; Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode The ADHD Effect on Marriage by Melissa Orlov Dr. Ned Hallowell / https://www.tiktok.com/@drhallowell David Solomonov Obituary Russ Cowan’s Deli: Radin’s Delicatessen Pho 75 Restaurant Vetri Restaurant Philadelphia Zahav Restaurant Federal Donuts Laser Wolf Dizengoff Kfar Goldie Philadelphia Protests Outside of Goldie Restaurant United Hatzalah Avi-Cue Shwarma Saffy’s Los Angeles Jaffa Bar Philadelphia Aviv Restaurant Miami Seed & Mill Halva Spice C Philadelphia Hawaij Mixed Spice Blend Chef Aliza Sokolow Zahav Home Cookbook Gefilteria Courage Bagels Del Rossi’s Cheesesteak 09:11 Interview with Chef Michael Solomonov 34:26 Struggles and Support: Overcoming Addiction 35:21 Exploring the Culinary Ventures 37:32 Introducing Jaffa: A New Culinary Concept 40:27 Navigating Political Challenges 44:16 Reflecting on October 7th 52:24 Comfort Food and Culinary Tips 57:42 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Dec 3, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish 3-time Emmy-winning actress and longtime activist Patricia Heaton found a new calling 15 months ago - leading the Christian charge to stand with Israel and the Jewish community in the wake of October 7th. In this week’s episode, Jonah and Patricia explore why her faith demands her to stand for truth and justice, and how she is using her platform to garner solidarity with Jews worldwide. From rallies at Columbia University, to visiting hostage families in Israel, to starting the October 7th Coalition non-profit, the beloved “Everybody Loves Raymond” star highlights the urgency around her advocacy and the importance of rising to meet the moment. Patricia and Jonah also talk about the no-no’s of conservative politics in Hollywood, Heaton’s Irish Catholic upbringing, and her unwavering sense of faith in this no-holds-barred episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Patricia Heaton & The October 7th Coalition https://www.instagram.com/patriciaheaton/ https://www.instagram.com/TheOfficialO7C/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Chris Rock (On Taking Care of Your Kids) (warning - explicit content) Patricia Heaton Presents at Jewish Media Awards October 7th Coalition (Patricia Heaton’s Non-Profit) “The Promise Sessions” bringing Israeli musicians to Nashville Patricia talks Unity Dinner & Nova Exhibit (Section in video: 2:29-6:37) Nova Exhibition Registration for Patricia’s “Deborah Rising” Womens’ Trip to Israel Paul’s Scripture (Put on the Armor of God) Jewish Girls Attacked in London Jewish Man Shot While Walking to Synagogue in Chicago Lone Jew Arrested at Anti-Israel Rally in Toronto Police Tell Jewish Man to Leave Downtown Montreal During Anti-Israel Rally Jonah discusses Availability Heuristic Menachem Begin “Jew with Trembling Knees” speech Jewish Federation of Cleveland Jewish Nobel Prize Winners Approximately 22% of Nobel Prize Winners/Laureates Are Jewish Malcolm Gladwell’s Revenge of the Tipping Point Lord of The Rings Speech (About Goodness in a Dark World) MyZuzahYourZuzah Billings, Montana: How A Town Banded Together to Fight Jew-Hatred Magen David Adom

Nov 26, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish NFL Vikings co-owner and philanthropist Mark Wilf opens up about his family’s American rebuild in the wake of the Holocaust, the importance of Israel, and the “family business” approach that has led to so much success for the Vikings franchise.. As a child of Holocaust Survivors, Wilf discusses the resilience and values his parents imparted to him, and how building a strong community is the antidote to trauma. He and Jonah also discuss numerous critical Jewish + Holocaust focused organizations such as The Jewish Agency, Jewish Federations of North America, March of the Living, and Yad Vashem. Wilf emphasizes the importance of teaching Jewish history to each new generation and how sports can be a meaningful vehicle for bringing people together around shared values. Don’t miss this eye-opening and inspirational conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt! All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Mark Wilf https://www.vikings.com/team/front-office-roster/mark-wilf Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode AJU’s Millter Introduction to Judaism program Rabbi Pinchas Teitz Jaroslaw, Poland Lvov Ghetto Holocaust Survivor Gathering in Israel Wilf Family Foundation March of The Living Yad Vashem Lack of Holocaust Education Among Young People Jewish Federation of North America The Jewish Agency For Israel (Where Mark Wilf is the Chairman of the Board of Governors) Nearly 30,000 People Immigrate to Israel in the Midst of Ongoing Wars October 7th Commemoration Post - 2024 October 7th Post - 2023 Nova Exhibition "All statistics from the opening monologue were obtained directly from internal data via the institutions themselves” 00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Reflection 00:50 The Surge in Jewish Identity Post-October 7th 01:36 Remarkable Statistics of Jewish Community Engagement 04:00 Impact of the Podcast and Community Feedback 06:16 Interview with Mark Wilf: Jewish Values and Sports 10:33 Family Legacy and Holocaust Stories 21:16 The Importance of Jewish Education and Philanthropy 24:36 Hope and Resilience in the Jewish Community 24:54 Legacy of a Holocaust Survivor 25:44 Yad Vashem: A Beacon of Memory and Education 27:32 Challenges in Holocaust Education 29:10 Commitment to Jewish Advocacy 29:58 Support for Terror Victims and Community Building 31:27 Global Jewish Support: Ukraine and Ethiopia 33:21 Jewish Advocacy in Sports 36:44 Reflections on Recent Trips to Israel 39:52 Community Involvement and Philanthropy 42:22 Final Thoughts and Audience Q&A

Nov 19, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Museum-represented Artist, Feminist Advocate and Proud Jewish Mama Zoe Buckman joins Jonah in a frank conversation about anti-Jew bigotry on the left, both in the United States and the UK, where Buckman was raised. They discuss the progressive movements Buckman was once part of and how they’ve abandoned her since October 7th, while also looking at how the art world has changed for Jewish and Israeli creators. They also dig into the process behind Zoe’s unique artistic style and how she’s channeled grief, both personal and global, to create vibrant museum quality pieces. Additionally, she and Jonah discuss ways that Jewish individuals can deal with relationships that have been frayed since October 7th, while providing ideas on how to further unity within the community at large. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt! All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Zoe https://www.instagram.com/zoebuckman/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards); Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in Episode Zoe’s Vogue Tribute to Her Mother History of Blood Libel & Jews Wicked Movie Trailer What is the Availability Heuristic? Tel Aviv Institute Hen Mazzig Leonard Cohen’s Quote About Judaism Zoe Buckman - “Tended” Exhibit Zoe Buckman’s Piece - “Songs Leaked From My Bedroom Walls” Zoe Buckman Uses Her Placenta To Create Art Hamas Uses Sexual Violence As Means of Attack Zoe Buckman’s Instagram Post About Anti-Jewish Hate in the Art World (August 11th) Van Jones Episode Art Basel Miami The Perez Art Museum Miami

Nov 12, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Gail Simmons has captured our hearts and stomachs as a judge on Bravo’s Emmy and Peabody-winning series Top Chef for more than 18 years! Today, she joins Jonah to discuss her connections to food and family through the lens of her Jewish identity. A Canadian native, she reflects on her Jewish upbringing in Toronto and Montreal and how those Jewish communities persevere today in the face of immense anti-Jew hate. Additionally, she shares her concerns for the future as a Jewish mother, goes deep on all things Top Chef, and of course, sprinkles in some culinary wisdom on Jewish specialties like latkes, kosher pickles, and most importantly, Mom’s Brisket. Together, Jonah and Gail tackle a wide breadth of topics with hope, humor and heart. Mentioned in Episode Nefesh - Rabbi Susan Goldberg Chef Sara Bradley Tom Colicchio Hen Mazzig Gail Simmons’ Brisket Recipe Instagram Post by Gail Simmons Chef Birthright Trip Franco-Turkish Relationship during First Empire The Great Powers All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Gail https://www.instagram.com/gailsimmonseats/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction and Context 00:27 The Power of Social Media 03:39 Historical Reflections and Call to Action 05:34 Practical Steps for Jewish Advocacy 07:10 Guest Introduction: Gail Simmons 09:01 Gail's Jewish Culinary Heritage 12:28 Gail's Career Journey 23:52 Top Chef and Cultural Impact 29:59 Jewish Food Challenge Ideas 31:17 Support and Community Post-October 7th 35:04 Social Media Advocacy and Reactions 42:05 Memories of Israel and Kibbutz Life 46:39 Contemporary Jewish Food and Deli Culture 48:55 Thanksgiving Traditions and Preferences 50:39 Audience Questions and Reflections 56:26 Closing Remarks and Credits

Nov 5, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this week’s episode, Jonah sits down with journalist Isaac Saul, founder of independent, non-partisan political newsletter Tangle. They discuss Isaac's evolving journey with Judaism - from the local Jewish Community Center to a Yeshiva in East Jerusalem and back. Isaac also lends his expertise to the discussion of journalistic integrity today, and elaborates on Tangle's mission to bridge what he calls “The Perception Gap” between Democrats and Republicans, and the political divide on contentious issues. Additionally, Saul offers unique perspectives on the ongoing conflicts in Israel and offers his election predictions just in time for Election Day! Jonah and Isaac’s conversation offers new insights on bridging civic divides and illustrates how to have an honest, humble and respectful conversation about sensitive issues. Mentioned in this episode Subscribe to Tangle! ReadTangle The Week Magazine (general reference) Isaac Saul’s Article on Election Fraud Isaac Saul’s Election Predictions Article: The Zionist case for a ceasefire Article “The attacks on Israel, and the response . All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Isaac Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikesaul/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction to Anti-Jewish Hate 00:44 Understanding Inversion: A Core Strategy 01:58 Examples of Anti-Jewish Inversion 03:09 The Weaponization of Jewish Identity 04:38 Challenging the Apartheid Label 05:52 Debunking Ethnic Cleansing and Genocide Claims 07:57 The Misuse of 'Never Again' 09:39 Interview with Isaac Saul: Early Jewish Memories 14:16 Isaac Saul's Journey to Jewish Observance 19:54 The State of Journalism Today 29:18 Addressing Election Fraud Claims 30:53 Understanding Political Perception Gaps 34:00 Election Predictions and Analysis 36:40 Personal Reflections on Trump 42:12 The Israel-Palestine Conflict 57:19 Social Media Questions 59:04 Conclusion and Farewell

Oct 29, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this episode, Jonah sits down with legendary commentator, activist and community ally Van Jones to dive into the historical power and current necessity of the Black & Jewish relationship. Together, Jonah and Van discuss the historic ties between their communities, the forces that try to divide them, and how both must work together to safeguard democracy and each other. Additionally, they discuss the pending Presidential election, the power of activism, and the origin of Van’s name! An eye-opening episode full of insight, truth, and personal stories not to be missed. Mentioned in this episode Article : The Message by Ta-Nehesi Coates The Green Collar Economy by Van Jones All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Van Jones Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanjones68/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction and Context 00:16 Exploring Jewish Identity 01:05 Challenging Jewish Validity 02:23 Solidarity and Unification 06:05 Introducing Van Jones 08:00 Van Jones' Early Life and Influences 13:29 Experiences with Racism and Activism 23:20 Media Integrity and Bias 27:08 Addressing Anti-Semitism and Advocacy 34:20 The Palestinian Cause and Hamas 35:23 Personal Impact and Progressive Identity 36:18 Social Media and Public Perception 37:06 Standing Up for All Communities 37:29 Facing Fear and Speaking Out 40:46 Complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict 45:15 Black and Jewish Community Relations

Oct 22, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jonah is joined by Jackie Tohn, one of the hilarious stars of Nobody Wants This , the Jewish Netflix series people can’t stop talking about. From raising Jewish children and intermarriage to Jewish representation in Hollywood, no topic goes untouched in today’s conversation. In this one-of-a-kind episode, Jackie Tohn opens up about her family’s Holocaust roots, the Jewish characters she’s gotten to portray in her career and the ongoing challenge in getting Jewish portrayals right. Beyond this, we learn about Sukkot and the cultural meaning this holiday holds. This episode offers humor and hope while authentically highlighting the challenges the Jewish community is facing. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Jackie Tohn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackietohn/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! Mentioned in this episode Nobody Wants This (Netflix: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26933824/ ) New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/05/opinion/nobody-wants-this-jewish-gender.html Time Magazine: https://time.com/7023404/nobody-wants-this-netflix-jewish-women/ Camp Lokanda (Website: https://www.lokanda.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camp.lokanda/ ) BBYO - JEWISH ORGANIZATION FOR YOUTH (website: https://bbyo.org/ ) GLOW (Netflix) Episode 25: https://ew.com/tv/2019/08/10/glow-season-3-spoilers-jackie-tohn-interview/ A Futile & Stupid Gesture - Gilda Radner Film Variety Magazine: ( https://variety.com/2023/film/focus/jonah-platt-time-to-spread-jewish-joy-1235758562/ ) Erin Foster (Creator of the show: IG: https://www.instagram.com/erinfoster/ ) Floaters ( https://deadline.com/2024/01/jackie-tohn-sarah-podemski-seth-green-maxwell-jacob-friedman-jewish-camp-comedy-floaters-1235809724/ ) CAMP SONG: 54:12 - Kenny Rogers Song PARODY “Through The Years” Best Leftovers Ever (Netflix) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13563634/ Schusterman Foundation: https://www.schusterman.org/ Beads 4 Proceeds (Jackie’s Bracelets) https://pcfcares.org/beads4proceeds/ 01:27 Introducing the Four Cs of Productive Conversations 01:35 C1: Curiosity - The Key to Understanding 02:54 C2: Calm - Keeping the Stakes Low 03:32 C3: Camaraderie - Building Connections 04:17 C4: Compassion - Shared Humanity 04:48 Boundaries and Positivity in Conversations 05:24 Engaging with the Audience 05:49 Welcome to 'Being Jewish' with Jonah Platt 07:05 Jackie Tone's Jewish Upbringing 12:26 Jackie Tone's Acting Journey 14:17 Jewish Representation in Media 20:37 Critiques and Responses to the Show 27:08 Visual Storytelling and Character Dynamics 28:07 Feedback from the Jewish Community 28:51 Authenticity in the Writer's Room 30:00 Navigating Jewish Traditions On-Screen 32:44 Interfaith Relationships and Jewish Identity 36:18 Creating Joy Amidst Adversity 39:55 Season Two Expectations and Personal Projects 49:27 Audience Questions and Future Plans

Oct 15, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Jonah travels to Israel for the heart-wrenching anniversary of October 7th and sits down with outgoing Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Fleur Hassan-Nahoum to reflect on the challenges Israel faces in its war with Iran. During this conversation, Jonah and Fleur discuss her tenure in Jerusalem’s city government, and how the coexistence that exists in the city could be a blueprint for the country’s future. Additionally, they address the shortfalls of Israel’s communication strategy and what must be done to protect the country from existential threats. From college protests to the Second Intifada to the differences between Diaspora Jews & Israeli Jews, this episode tackles a wide range of pressing topics that simply can’t be missed. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fleurhassann/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Jonah's Arrival in Israel 00:48 Reflecting on the Tragedy of October 7th 03:43 Encounters and Stories of Resilience 06:39 Unity and Mourning in Israel 09:02 Interview with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum 11:54 Fleur's Background and Family History 22:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Jerusalem 29:11 Diverse Jerusalem: A Melting Pot of Cultures 29:27 Differences Between Israeli and Diaspora Jews 29:59 Understanding Antisemitism: A Wake-Up Call 31:07 The Evolution of Zionism 32:12 Diaspora Jews and Israeli Identity 34:47 The Communications War: Israel's PR Struggles 38:19 Israel's Current Trajectory and Challenges 44:49 Resilience and Hope for the Future 45:30 Celebrating Sukkot Amidst Turmoil 46:28 Lightning Round: Personal Insights and Reflections

Oct 8, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this thought-provoking episode of "Being Jewish," Jonah Platt dives deep with Rabbi David Wolpe to explore what being Jewish means to one of Judaism’s most renowned faith leaders. From rabbinical wisdom to addressing anti-Jewish bigotry on college campuses, to October 7th, no topic goes untouched. Rabbi Wolpe weighs in on his controversial time at Harvard, his storied career as a rabbi, and his own sense of Jewish identity. Join us for an in-depth and reflective conversation just in time for the Days of Awe and Yom Kippur. Mentioned in this episode Why Be Jewish - Rabbi David Wolpe David: The Divided Heart - Rabbi David Wolpe All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Rabbi David Wolpe! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjwolpe Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction to Yom Kippur and Self-Reflection 00:23 Psychological Biases and Self-Awareness 01:06 Shortcut Empathy: A Modern Fallacy 02:36 The Importance of True Empathy 03:36 Personal Experience on Middle Ground 04:47 A Disheartening Encounter 06:10 The Need for Genuine Empathy 06:30 Introduction to Rabbi David Wolpe 07:41 Growing Up as a Rabbi's Child 11:07 Journey to Becoming a Rabbi 15:16 Challenges and Achievements at Sinai Temple 23:47 Reflections on Jewish Identity and Heroes 26:38 Experiences at Harvard Divinity School 30:01 The Resignation Letter 30:50 Congressional Hearings and Disillusionment 34:38 DEI and Systemic Inequality 37:44 Advice for Jewish Students 39:21 Cultivating a Relationship with the Divine 44:18 Jewish Identity and Modern Challenges 51:27 Audience Questions and Reflections

Oct 1, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this eye-opening episode of BEING JEWISH, Jonah Platt discusses the complexities of the term “antisemitism” with guest Kenny Hamilton, a music mogul and former Justin Bieber bodyguard. The conversation dives deep into Kenny's journey towards converting to Judaism, his experiences working with Bieber and Scooter Braun, and how his identity as a Black Jew shapes his perspective on the current social climate. They also reflect on the shared cultural experiences between Black and Jewish communities, and the significance of Shabbat in fostering deeper connections. Kenny emphasizes the importance of speaking up against anti-Black and anti-Jew bigotry, and fostering a community of understanding and support. Join us for an enlightening discussion on breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world. All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Kenny! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennyhamilton/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Reframing Antisemitism: A Call to Action 01:40 Research Insights: The Ineffectiveness of 'Antisemitism' 05:50 Introducing Kenny Hamilton: A Unique Journey 07:15 From Radio to Bodyguard: Kenny's Career Path 08:36 Discovering Judaism: Kenny's Conversion Story 09:44 Experiencing Israel: A Life-Changing Trip 15:36 Cultural Connections: Black and Jewish Experiences 25:25 Systemic Racism and Jewish History 26:40 Jewish Contributions to Civil Rights 27:36 Personal Journey to Judaism 29:01 Conversion Process and Reflections 33:57 Challenges and Reactions 41:25 Social Media and Public Perception 46:54 Finding Joy in Jewish Traditions

Oct 1, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In this episode we are joined by dancer, singer, actress and social media star Montana Tucker. In this conversation with Jonah, she shares her journey from entertainer to Jewish advocate, discusses her Holocaust documentary “ How To: Never Forget: A Holocaust remembrance film by Montana Tucker ”, her powerful activism post-October 7th, and the importance of unity amidst rising anti-Jew hate. Montana also reflects on her upbringing in a predominantly Jewish area, her career in the entertainment industry, and her ongoing commitment to using her platform to uplift others for positive impact. Mentioned in this episode How To: Never Forget: A Holocaust remembrance film by Montana Tucker Israeli & Palestinian Boy Band as1one All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Montana! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montanatucker/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction: The Weight on American Jews 00:19 Election Year: Jewish Perspectives 01:13 Arguments for Kamala Harris 02:01 Arguments Against Donald Trump 05:12 Arguments for Donald Trump 06:38 Arguments Against Kamala Harris 08:30 The Complexity of Jewish Voting 10:22 Interview with Montana Tucker 11:27 Montana's Jewish Upbringing 17:04 Montana's Career and Social Media Rise 20:58 Holocaust Education and Activism 26:59 Personal Connection and Authenticity 27:08 Holocaust Education Challenges 27:36 Impact of Social Media on Awareness 28:03 Public Conversations and Media Influence 30:05 October 7th: A Turning Point 31:14 Rallies and Community Resilience 31:53 Family Stories of Survival 33:13 Advocacy and Social Media Challenges 34:06 Balancing Activism and Personal Life 41:28 Future Plans and Projects 43:58 Community Support and Collaboration

Oct 1, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish In the premiere episode of 'Being Jewish with Jonah Platt,' host Jonah Platt sits down with Hollywood actor Skylar Astin. Skylar opens up about his evolving Jewish identity, childhood experiences, and navigating the entertainment industry as a proud Jewish professional. They discuss the impact of recent events on Jewish advocacy, the challenges of anti-Jew hate, and the importance of openly celebrating Jewish culture. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation about Jewish identity, representation, and resilience. Mentioned in this episode Skylar Astin’s Shabbat Special: Recipe for Change: Standing Up to Antisemitism - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj-pWmsOIyQ Smokey Robinson Mispronounces Chanukah I Cameo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQPXGJIN8yQ All things Jonah: www.JonahPlatt.com Connect with Skylar! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skylarastin/ Host & Production Team Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili; Editor: Patrick Edwards);, Social Media Manager: Yuval Yosha; Designer Noah Bell Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald, and Consulting Producers: Shield Communications (Ariella Noveck & Bethany Mandel). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish! 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Jewish Identity 00:38 The Turning Point: Spring 2021 01:32 Advocacy and the Podcast's Mission 05:52 Guest Introduction: Skylar Astin 07:45 Skylar's Jewish Journey 15:34 Navigating Jewish Identity in Hollywood 21:35 Combating Antisemitism: Past and Present 24:24 Reflecting on Jewish Identity and Anti-Semitism 26:17 Navigating Social Media and Public Perception 28:31 Balancing Activism and Professionalism 32:45 Experiences in the Entertainment Industry 37:45 Personal Connections and Jewish Culture 39:42 Engaging with the Audience 45:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sep 8, 2024

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: Jonah@JonahPlatt.com To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Introducing...Being Jewish with Jonah Platt. A weekly podcast that illuminates the full, beautiful, often unexplored spectrum of Jewish identity, by exploring the personal journeys of both Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Each week, actor/artist/advocate Jonah Platt will interview a celebrity figure from any number of fields—Art, Sports, Entertainment, Politics, Food, Music, Business, you name it—allowing the esteemed guest a safe space to dig deep into their own individual connection to the question, “What does it mean to be Jewish TO YOU?” Both the show’s audience and the established audience of each guest will have a unique opportunity to discover their hero’s connection to the Jewish experience through a thought-provoking conversation they won’t have heard anywhere else. Follow and Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us on Instagram: @beingjewishpodcast Coming soon to YouTube!