Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

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.

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Mentioned in Episode

Episode 14: Holding Two Truths & Broadway Director Zhailon Levingston Dec 17, 2024

Watch this episode on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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!

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Subscribe to the audio podcast
Subscribe to the video podcast
Follow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt
Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcast
Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish
Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplatt

All things Jonah:

Host & Production Team

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Mentioned in Episode

Episode 13: My ADHD Journey & Chef Michael Solomonov Dec 10, 2024

Watch this episode on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the audio podcast
Subscribe to the video podcast
Follow Jonah on Instagram @jonahplatt
Follow the Show on Instagram @beingjewishpodcast
Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beingjewish
Threads: www.threads.net/@jonahplatt

All things Jonah:

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

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

Episode 12: Standing Up To Bigotry & Emmy winner Patricia Heaton Dec 03, 2024

Watch this episode on YouTube here!

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.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the audio podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

Subscribe to the video podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@JonahPlattOfficial

Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/

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Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/patriciaheaton/

Connect with Patricia Heaton & The October 7th Coalition

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

Episode 11: Giving Thanks & NFL Vikings Owner Mark Wilf Nov 26, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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!

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/

Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/

Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt

All things Jonah:

https://www.vikings.com/team/front-office-roster/mark-wilf

Connect with 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

Episode 10: The Politicization of Jewish Identity & Artist Zoe Buckman Nov 19, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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!

Mentioned in Episode

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/

Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/

Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/zoebuckman/

Connect with Zoe

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 Understanding False Validity

00:35 The Harmful Conflation of Jewish Identity and Politics

01:15 Addressing Bigotry and Misconceptions

04:30 The Psychological Toll of Anti-Semitism

05:41 Embracing Jewish Identity

08:31 Introduction to the Guest: Zoe Buckman

10:00 Zoe Buckman's Early Life in Hackney

12:33 Experiencing Anti-Semitism in the UK

20:52 Personal Loss and Rebirth

31:06 Tattoo Ideas and Jewish Traditions

32:37 Impact of Jewish Rituals

34:48 Parenting and Jewish Identity

36:30 Grieving and Moving On

40:06 Artistic Journey and Achievements

45:48 Challenges and Resilience in the Art World

55:12 Future Plans and Lightning Round

57:44 Listener Questions and Closing Remarks

Episode 9: Reclaiming Social Media & Top Chef’s Gail Simmons Nov 12, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

Follow Jonah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jonahplatt/

Follow the Show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beingjewishpodcast/

Join the conversation on Twitter: https://x.com/JonahPlatt

All things Jonah:

https://www.instagram.com/gailsimmonseats/

Connect with Gail

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

Episode 8: Anti-Jew Inversion & Political Journalist Isaac Saul Nov 05, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Isaac

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikesaul/

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 7: “Bad Jews” + CNN Analyst & Activist Van Jones Oct 29, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Van Jones

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanjones68/

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 6: The “Four C’s” of Productive Conversation + Jackie Tohn Oct 22, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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.

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/

Stay Connected

Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Jackie Tohn

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackietohn/

Host & Production Team

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes of Being Jewish!

01:27 Introducing the Four Cs of Productive Conversations

01:35 C1: Curiosity - The Key to Understanding

02:54 C2: Calm - Keeping the Stakes Low

03:32 C3: Camaraderie - Building Connections

04:17 C4: Compassion - Shared Humanity

04:48 Boundaries and Positivity in Conversations

05:24 Engaging with the Audience

05:49 Welcome to 'Being Jewish' with Jonah Platt

07:05 Jackie Tone's Jewish Upbringing

12:26 Jackie Tone's Acting Journey

14:17 Jewish Representation in Media

20:37 Critiques and Responses to the Show

27:08 Visual Storytelling and Character Dynamics

28:07 Feedback from the Jewish Community

28:51 Authenticity in the Writer's Room

30:00 Navigating Jewish Traditions On-Screen

32:44 Interfaith Relationships and Jewish Identity

36:18 Creating Joy Amidst Adversity

39:55 Season Two Expectations and Personal Projects

49:27 Audience Questions and Future Plans

Episode 5: Anniversary of October 7th + Fleur Hassan-Nahoum Oct 15, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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.

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Subscribe to the podcast: https://beingjewishwithjonahplatt.transistor.fm/subscribe
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All things Jonah:

Why Be Jewish - Rabbi David Wolpe

Connect with Fleur Hassan-Nahoum

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fleurhassann/

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 4: “Shortcut Empathy” + Rabbi David Wolpe Oct 08, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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

David: The Divided Heart - Rabbi David Wolpe

Stay Connected

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Rabbi David Wolpe!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjwolpe

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 3: Ditching the Term “Antisemitism" + Music Manager Kenny Hamilton Oct 01, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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.

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Kenny!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennyhamilton/

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 2: The Jewish Case for Both Trump & Harris + Social Media Activist Montana Tucker Oct 01, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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

Stay Connected

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All things Jonah:

Connect with Montana!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montanatucker/

Host & Production Team

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

Episode 1: Why This Podcast Exists + Actor Skylar Astin Oct 01, 2024

Watch the show on YouTube @JonahPlattOfficial

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

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