Jewish History Nerds

The Secret Jewish Kingdom of...Yemen? Mar 14, 2024

Ever wonder about the Jewish kings beyond David and Solomon? Join Yael and Schwab as they uncover the intriguing story of a lesser-known monarch from 5th century Yemen. Delve into the complex history of Yosef Dhu Nuwas, a Jewish convert who ascended to the throne of the ancient kingdom of Himyar.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Yosef Dhu Nuwas and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yodfm5BZIs8KBIl24I0bqrASiiPyuTImUOcnQ-t3XGI/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Wondering Jews

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

Bertha Pappenheim: Life Beyond a Diagnosis Mar 07, 2024

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Have you ever felt the need to reinvent yourself? To break free from the constraints of expectations and redefine your own path? Join Yael and Schwab as they explore the legacy of Bertha Pappenheim, aka Sigmund Freud's Anna O, a remarkable Jewish woman who defied societal norms and transcended the confines of her diagnosis. From her pioneering advocacy for women's rights to her profound influence on psychoanalysis, delve into the untold story of a woman who broke free from the limitations imposed by her time.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Bertha Pappenheim and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KiejqyGVVUGZfQqmZ_QSHWKDu_0F7BafnUKsVAwDAmA/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Wondering Jews

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

Rav Saadia Gaon: In Our Gaonic Era Feb 29, 2024

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You may have heard of some of the greats of rabbinic history. But even if you've heard of Rav Sa'adia Gaon, you probably don't know his wild story. Join Yael and Schwab as they dive into the Gaonic era and find out what's so special about this transitional figure.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Rav Saadia Gaon, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1y_lBzxA2joDLuUpz395QtM1KI9a5vYvFugJubdYtb14/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Wondering Jews

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

The Diary of Glikl: Discovering the Exceptional within the Everyday Feb 22, 2024

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Forget philosophers and historians, welcome to the world of Glikl, an ordinary yet extraordinary Jewish woman from 18th-century Germany. Join Yael and Schwab to explore the diary of Glikl, as she candidly shares her personal struggles and triumphs, offering a profound glimpse into the human experience, with an authenticity and vulnerability that still resonates today.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Wondering Jews

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

Revisionist Zionism: Jabotinsky's Journey From Vladimir to Ze'ev Feb 15, 2024

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Lately it seems all anyone can talk about is... Zionism. But what even is Zionism? Jump into the world of Revisionist Zionist leader, Vladimir Jabotinsky, exploring his unique, and somewhat paradoxical, vision of zionism and a Jewish homeland: a delicate balance of strength and diplomacy. Join Yael and Schwab as they explore Jabotinsky's divergence from 'mainstream' Zionism, his advocacy for territorial maximalism, and his enduring impact on Israeli politics, providing new insight into his legacy and its effects on Zionism as we know it today.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Vladimir Jabotinsky, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-eaNmU8d5HE-QyDzyQI888dJ1Dha9HY0p51Fz2mHFe8/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Wondering Jews

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

Mystical Hasidism: Hillel Ba'al Shem's Enchanted Journey Feb 08, 2024

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Join Yael and Schwab as they delve into the world of 18th-century Jewish mysticism through the life of Hillel Ba'al Shem and his manuscript "Sefer HaCheshek." Exploring failed miracles and comedic exorcisms with humor and humility, they contrast Hillel's legacy with the revered Ba'al Shem Tov, uncovering profound philosophical insights and historical context, from Kabbalah to controversies surrounding figures like Shabbetai Tzvi, sparking captivating conversations about faith, belief, and the human condition.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hillel Ba'al Shem, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jAk-0caPNldFuatKkAvwLjilQzLrBFk41Q-n2HBwcSI/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Jewish History Nerds

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

Chronicles of A Talmud Girl Boss Feb 01, 2024

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Embark on a captivating journey through the extraordinary life of Devorah Romm, a pioneering businesswoman in 19th-century Lithuania, who reshaped the literary landscape of Eastern European Jewish communities. Whether breaking copyright rules, crafting the opulent Vilna Shas, implementing a groundbreaking business strategy, or obtaining rare manuscripts from the Vatican, Devorah was unafraid of taking charge and defying expectations. Join Yael and Schwab as they uncover the legacy of Devorah Romm, a trailblazer who not only rose to each challenge presented, but flourished in ways unimaginable for woman at the time, leaving an everlasting mark on the Jewish world.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Devorah Romm, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rYN4Yq7nBzV58YD68FRsfLkIKEjU_qp0RI9DF6wTusg/edit#heading=h.oefh2lmsj39c

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Jewish History Nerds

Unpacking Israeli History

Soulful Jewish Living

The First Female Rabbi?: Maiden of Ludmir Jan 25, 2024

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Welcome to Ludmir, Ukraine. The year is 1806, and the revolutionary Hannah Rachel Vermermacher, also known as the Maiden of Ludmir, is shaking up the traditional Jewish world. Born into affluence, Hannah Rachel's life took a transformative turn, leading her to embrace the role of a Hasidic rabbi, or rebbe. Despite facing objections and rumors, she chose an independent path, attracting followers seeking her guidance, and breaking a few societal norms along the way. Eventually, Hannah Rachel ventured to Jerusalem, expanding her influence as her teachings spread across the broader Jewish world. Join Yael and Schwab as they discover the enduring impact of the Maiden of Ludmir's unique story, uncovering a harmonious blend of mysticism and independence.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Maiden of Ludmir, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xPOaXDHbiTh_hHoJHaV32jlg9CVsWiGYKOFMntzmYo4/edit#heading=h.ox6pluiqfvx2

Innovation or Assimilation? The Moses Mendelssohn Story Jan 18, 2024

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Moses Mendelssohn faced the intricate challenges of being a Jew in an enlightened European setting. Despite impactful contributions, his legacy includes challenges faced by his family and questions about the long-term impact of his ideas on Jewish identity. Join Schwab and Yael as they explore the complex story of Moses Mendelssohn, and delve into the intricacies of Jewish identity.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Moses Mendelssohn, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x3_mO1dbJc4DQf4sg6JZtyqfWkiU3nHNj8YNSszDhFc/edit#heading=h.j4qqg1vxy5x0

Graetz's Balancing Act: Modernity and Judaism Jan 11, 2024

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Meet Heinrich Graetz, the trailblazing historian who transformed Jewish history. Born into 19th-century Germany, Graetz challenged norms and bridged the gap between Orthodox and academic worlds. Join us as we unravel Graetz's legacy and explore the evolving landscape of Jewish identity through his groundbreaking work. In this episode, hosts Schwab and Yael explore the life and pioneering work of 19th-century German Jewish historian Heinrich Graetz. The episode reflects on tensions surrounding Graetz's work, highlighting the ongoing relevance of his social scientific approach.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Heinrich Graetz, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EfqB96omNaNU8MpWpcpd1gOmxDz4P-1yU3kHEXOLriE/edit?usp=sharing

Buy the ebook of History of the Jews (for only $2!) here.

Season 3, Coming Next Week Jan 04, 2024

We’re back for Season 3. We’ll still be unpacking awesome stories, dialing up the nerdiness, and leaning in to Jewish history. Get ready, and brush up on past episodes.

Are you ready?

Sarah Schenirer: A Revolutionary Traditionalist Jun 29, 2023

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100 years ago, in Krakow, Poland, Sarah Schenirer changed female Jewish education forever. Explore the extraordinary life of Sarah Schenirer, the pioneering force who fearlessly merged tradition and women's rights in Orthodox Judaism. Uncover her creation of the groundbreaking Beis Yaakov school system, challenging societal norms while upholding Orthodox values. Join us as we delve into the complex legacy of this visionary figure, a true bridge between tradition and social innovation.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Sarah Schenirer, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ec_1aciMru1pGvQDIXMixisDjaFFpRo9FEgNz9xKLN4/edit?usp=sharing

The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara Jun 22, 2023

Join Yael and Schwab as we unravel the gripping story of a young Jewish boy forcibly taken from his family by the Catholic Church, sparking international outcry and shaping the course of religious tensions. Discover the surprising twists and turns that led Edgardo Mortara to embrace his captors' faith, becoming a devoted Catholic priest with a mission to convert his own people.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Edgardo Mortara, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xZAGR52wd0v7Ofmb1aAmi3vDb1h7TUDYsr0QCGGDGDY/edit

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Golden Age of Spanish Jewry: A Tapestry of Coexistence Jun 15, 2023

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Schwab and Yael unravel the vibrant tapestry of the Golden Age of Spanish Jewry, an era of remarkable cultural exchange and collaboration between Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Explore the rich history, intellectual achievements, and creative contributions of the Jewish community during this extraordinary period of coexistence in the Iberian Peninsula. Discover the intricate interplay of cultures that shaped this golden era and its lasting impact on the development of art, science, and philosophy.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Spanish Golden Age, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BWe-Vzczfy_EL9rZuiRwIIc1zYN6uxjZwYtHxe8_ZQs/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Hannah Szenes: Defiance Amidst Darkness Jun 08, 2023

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In this gripping episode, join Schwab and Yael as they delve into the extraordinary life of Hannah Szenes, a talented Hungarian poet who defied the Holocaust. From her escape to pre-state Israel to her daring mission behind enemy lines, discover the incredible bravery of a woman who refused to yield to the Nazis. Uncover the untold story of Hannah Szenes and explore the enduring legacy of her unyielding spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hannah Szenes, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ih5TaGOYXoZQmuqdaTLX6jnhQ04vrH32JdeMZlKtRiE/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Wuhsha the Broker: Excavations from the Cairo Geniza Jun 01, 2023

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Discovered in the Cairo Geniza, the story of the remarkable exploits of this 11th century trader push the boundaries of what we may have thought was typical of Jewish women in medieval Egypt. But before we even get there, we have to understand what the Cairo Geniza is, and why it helps us to understand Jewish history.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Wuhsha the Broker and the Cairo Geniza, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mdQlJlIhm34YhI39ZdYNEo-68utXr9aZmqRtyPrOARQ/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

"Resurrecting" Judaism?: Donato Manduzio's Journey May 25, 2023

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Donato Manduzio was just a simple man in an Italian village - until he read the Bible, and began his quest to bring back what he thought was a dead, ancient faith. Not only did Donato embrace Judaism, he convinced several dozen of his fellow villagers in San Nicandro to join him in this spiritual journey. Schwab and Yael explore this wild story and ask, how the heck do we decide not only who is a Jew, but what are the contours of, well, Judaism?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Donato Manduzio, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GhIKjDiK3-Z-Dgu-nDNXAvKRZ6NYGwtEB3hTkc4Gl2o/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Johannes Eisenmenger: Deception, Faith, and Antisemitism May 18, 2023

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Learn about the bonkers life of Johannes Eisenmenger, a man who spent 19 years under false pretenses within the Jewish community. Over those 19 years, he meticulously studied the Talmud, and eventually wrote a wild 2000-page text about the evils of the Talmud. In this episode, Yael and Schwab explore the personal motives, societal implications, and long-lasting effects of his actions. Join us as we dissect this tale of deception and bigotry in the light of history, faith, and human behavior.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Johannes Eisenmenger, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KeADzNKcvU0A5UjvwAwnA0SONmunnrGxFCjaD8Kpr3o/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Sarra Coppia Sullam: A 17th Century Queen Esther? May 11, 2023

You might not be quite as big of a fan of epistolary romances as Yael, but you'll still love the story of Sarra Coppia Sullam. Sullam, a Jewish Venetian woman of 17th century, was most well-known for her literary salons, the public accusations of heresy against her, and most salaciously, her pen pal love affair with the Genoese monk named Ansaldo Cebà. Come for the story, stay for the drama, as Schwab and Yael unpack her incredible life.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Sarra Coppia Sullman, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yj8Q9fD3nROSdB33HpO1GEo-FPd_36LpiwYDJEKEd7I/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Emma Goldman: Anarchism, Feminism...and Judaism? May 04, 2023

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This week, Schwab and Yael dive into the life and legacy of Emma Goldman, the influential Jewish anarchist activist who made waves in early 20th-century America. Learn about her contributions to the development of feminism and her impact on the American left. Join us as we explore the life of this revolutionary figure who inspired and challenged the status quo. But also, Schwab and Yael ask, what impact does Red Emma's Judaism have on her?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Emma Goldman, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yj8Q9fD3nROSdB33HpO1GEo-FPd_36LpiwYDJEKEd7I/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Herod the Great: Madness & Majesty Apr 27, 2023

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Delve into the enigmatic life of King Herod the Great, the infamous Judean ruler whose legacy intertwines madness and monumental achievements. Explore his transformative public works projects and unravel the dark side of his rule. Join Schwab and Yael as they examine the complex reign of a king who changed the face of ancient Judea forever.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Herod, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hWA1yiRwLHzBisRWlcKHEbT7ZTmGC2A7NL6MswyNJvk/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Season 2 Coming! Apr 20, 2023

We’re back!

By popular demand, Jewish History Nerds is back for another season. Wait - what? Jewish History NERDS? That's right. This new name reflects exactly who we - and all of you - are - proud Jewish History nerds. But nothing is changing. We’ll still be unpacking awesome stories, but as our true selves: Jewish History Nerds.

Are you ready?

Yalla, let’s do this!

Introducing: Unpacking Israeli History, Season 4! Mar 15, 2023

Jewish History Unpacked introduces another podcast from Unpacked: Unpacking Israeli History. Season 4 just launched, and we're running the first episode here, entitled Ma'alot: 30 Seconds That Devastated A Nation.

It was supposed to be a fun field trip. A little celebration in honor of Israel’s 26th birthday. Over a hundred religious high school students, exploring northern Israel and sleeping under the stars. But the three Palestinian terrorists who sneaked in from Lebanon had other plans. This is the story of the Ma’alot massacre. It’s a story of horror and blood. But it’s also a story of hope and resistance. A reminder that every hour of our lives matters.

Babatha: The Jewish Mom of Ancient Times Jan 19, 2023

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We've talked this season about some biggggg characters. Josephus, Napoleon, Shabbetai Zvi. And this week, meet...Babatha. A wholly unremarkable woman, except for the world she opened up for us through the documents found in her abandoned handbag...2,000 years ago. This week, Schwab and Yael explore gender and rights, Roman bureaucracy and the many legal systems in 2nd century Judea, and the value of a good handbag.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Babatha, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DRc7Oerrjm5x8ehqsRgvklmEpKgc_sdZlPXCQQUVW8Y/edit?usp=sharing

Eternal Outsider: The Uriel D'Acosta Story Jan 12, 2023

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Every community has its weirdos. And in 17th century Amsterdam, the Jewish community’s resident weirdo was Uriel D’Acosta: converso, refugee, passionate Jew, and… dangerous heretic?

Join Yael and Schwab as they explore D’Acosta’s controversial legacy — from his influence on Spinoza to his ostracism at the hands of the Dutch Jewish community. And decide for yourself: what lessons does the story of Uriel D’Acosta hold for us today?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Uriel D'Acosta, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1b8nfO04BDAFCm6eEHenktP_Na4PAwltXs8fqyOdtqSE/edit?usp=sharing

Saul/Paul of Tarsus: Nice Jewish Boy? Jan 05, 2023

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How did a nice Jewish boy wind up a Christian apostle? Meet Saul/Paul of Tarsus, the man responsible for, well, Christianity.

Like Jesus, Saul was a Jew. But unlike Jesus, Saul preached a completely modified version of Judaism. A version that eventually transformed into the Christianity we know today.

Yael and Schwab ask, why are we talking about Christianity on a Jewish history podcast? When did Christianity become a distinct religion from Judaism? And why should Jews care about early Christian history?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Saul/Paul and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1e-kVcuC8LCk1shuVXoetZevMwTCq5rggcKlzUvrVGcw/edit?usp=sharing

Holy Fire: Voices of the Warsaw Ghetto Dec 29, 2022

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In December of 1950, a construction worker happened upon a cache of old milk tins buried in the Warsaw Ghetto, the contents of which upended our understanding of the Holocaust.

The tins held the second of three caches of the Oneg Shabbos archives: a collection by ordinary people turned archivists who risked their lives to preserve the darkest moment of Jewish history. Among the photographs and diary entries, concert tickets and poems, lay the collected sermons of Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, also known as the Piaseczno Rebbe. In this episode, Yael and Schwab ask, what can we learn from Rabbi Shapira’s works? And what debt do we owe to the brave Oneg Shabbos archivists?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Aish Kodesh and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UPT1ADfGLblgPOaViGeyquYRE6l8V0Rvutxlk3CTgE8/edit?usp=sharing

Hebrew Hammer: The True Story of Hanukkah Dec 22, 2022

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Ah, Chanukah. That festive time of year where we light candles, indulge in fried foods, and celebrate… a brutal civil war? Join Yael and Schwab as they complicate the story we all thought we knew. What did the Maccabees really fight for? How should we feel about their legacy? And who is Helen?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hanukkah, Judah Maccabee, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19vHg-inRureVw3AlW2UA_uyUYMH12HH5qjvkXrMf_h4/edit?usp=sharing

Of Ports, Popes, and Pocketbooks Dec 15, 2022

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No one expects the Spanish Inquisition… to have given rise to two of the most powerful Jewish women in history.

You may not have heard of Dona Gracia Mendes or Benvenida Abrabanel. You may not have learned about the vastly different ways they attempted to use their power in order to stop the persecution of Jews in the papal states. And you may not have considered the way that Gracia and Benvenida’s rivalry still echoes today.

Yael and Schwab weren’t, before this episode. But now, they’re here to unpack all of this and more. So get ready — just like the Inquisition, it’s going to be quite a show.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on these women, the Ancona affair, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17VKgT2Y22Toxzc7ju6PM8NpUPFnKQixHtrEKa0XUHq0/edit?usp=sharing

Khazaria...A Jewish Empire In Europe? Dec 08, 2022

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Jews don’t seek converts. There are no Jewish missionaries, no street preachers, no televangelists.And yet, Jewish legend tells of an 8th century pagan king who converted his entire empire to Judaism.

Schwab and Yael ask, why? Why would anyone choose to become Jewish in 8th century Europe -- historically, not the friendliest place for Jews? Is this story fact, fiction, or something in between? If it’s true, where did all those Jews end up? And why are antisemites so obsessed with this obscure Jewish legend? The answers might surprise you.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Khazaria and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MjD36b1gMWaB2OQO7Eh-c76Dhqm2wyUKdVyzGvfzNwY/edit?usp=sharing

Shabbetai Tzvi: A (Bonkers) False Messiah Story Dec 01, 2022

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You've probably never met a character as colorful as Shabbetai Tzvi. The 16th century Jewish mystic and rabbi led thousands of Jews to leave their homes and possessions to follow him as their Messiah. With the encouragement of his hypeman, Nathan of Gaze, Shabbetai Tzvi was revered and loved, picking up followers left and right...until the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire threatens him with imprisonment unless he converts to Islam, which he does. This week, Yael and Schwab tell us the story of Shabbetai Tzvi and ask, what is the deeper meaning of this crazy story and character?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Shabbetai Tzvi and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pNiZ8ZuIrIRJNzHh3CQy81AEA8CE429j4XNCdm9Yq6M/edit?usp=sharing

Does 'Liberte, Fraternite, Egalite' Include Jews? Nov 23, 2022

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When we think about the French Revolution, our mind jumps to Marie Antoinette, Les Miserable, “America’s favorite fighting Frenchman.” We don’t generally think “hey, are Jews even people?” But that was the question on Napoleon’s mind as he built the French Empire. In this week’s episode, Yael and Schwab break down all the factors in Napoleon’s decision-making process as he tried to figure out whether Jews could be French citizens. It’s a story about liberte, egalite, fraternite. About Napoleon’s revival of an ancient Jewish court for the first time in 1,300 years. And about what it means to be a Jew in a wider society.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Napoleon and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vuujRrD1gBYEmIJny-o2oief34hGpYW9EeMFYqlF2tc/edit?usp=sharing

Josephus: The Man Who "Invented" Jewish History Nov 17, 2022

Jewish History Nerds survey

Josephus Flavius is maybe one of the wildest characters in Jewish history, and that's saying something. That's largely because unlike most historians, he didn't just chronicle the story; as Yael tells Schwab in this week's episode, Josephus, or Yosef ben Matityahu, wrote himself into the story - and what a story it is. This week, we learn about Josephus and the siege of Yodfat, and they ask, what does it mean for us to write yourself into the story of Jewish history?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Josephus and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1D4Lwb-qwdYT2lW3vpGVaU_0bJCpnOSCwOWM9OMrCL3E/edit?usp=sharing

Trailer: Jewish History Nerds Nov 15, 2022

Whoever said history was boring clearly never heard these stories…Welcome to Jewish History Nerds! Join hosts Yael and Schwab each week as they take a dive into some deep cuts of Jewish history. From the Jewish DaVinci code to mass suicide pacts, explore true stories that feel larger than life.

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