Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Jonah Platt
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Being Jewish with Jonah Platt is the hit weekly podcast that illuminates the vast, beautiful, and often unexplored tapestry of Jewish identity, through deeply honest and personal conversations with notable Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Hosted by actor & advocate Jonah Platt, a trusted expert in contemporary Jewish culture, identity, and politics, Being Jewish seeks to engage, educate, and empower listeners to take full ownership of their identities and live as their proudest, most authentic selves. 2025 Webby Honoree | Podcasts - Best Indie Podcast 2025 Wilbur Award Winner

  1. L’Dor V’adorable is Back! And American-Israeli Cookbook Author Adeena Sussman

    2D AGO

    L’Dor V’adorable is Back! And American-Israeli Cookbook Author Adeena Sussman

    In this delicious episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with New York Times bestselling cookbook author and Tel Aviv-based food writer Adeena Sussman for a conversation about food, culture, and the rituals of living in Israel today. Living steps from the Carmel Market, Adeena paints a vivid portrait of daily life in Tel Aviv, how Israelis continue daily routines amid rocket alarms, and what it means to compartmentalize in a country where normalcy and uncertainty coexist. Adeena reflects on feeling like an insider-outsider as an “American Israeli,” and how the shuk itself mirrors Israel’s layered religious and cultural diversity. She shares how October 7 transformed her Shabbat cookbook tour into community-centered gatherings and fundraisers, and why she views cookbooks as narrative literature that provide cultural context. She also speaks candidly about her responsibility in culinary storytelling, documenting Yemenite, Iraqi, Moroccan, and broader Middle Eastern Jewish cuisines while crediting provenance and seeking permission for adaptations. Jonah and Adeena also explore her path to co-authoring cookbooks with a number of chefs and celebrities including Chrissy Teigen, her Substack (including a viral post after attending Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s funeral), and the personal accountability she feels towards readers who bring her recipes into their homes. The episode covers her family history and Shabbat hospitality, including her mother Steffi’s influence, and what makes food suitable for Shabbat. Adeena introduces her upcoming cookbook “Zuriz” (“quick”), a collection of 100 one-page recipes designed for real life. This conversation doesn’t just talk about food as sustenance, but as a means of storytelling and connection. Topics Include: Adeena Sussman’s move from New York City to Tel AvivBecoming one of today’s most influential voices in Israeli cuisineWriting Sababa and Shabbat cookbooksLiving with Chrissy Teigen and John LegendHow Israeli Elections Really WorkWriting Cookbooks That Tell a StoryAdeena Sussman’s Recipe Development ProcessLearning the Roots: Respectful Research Across Middle Eastern Jewish CuisinesIsrael and California’s Abundant Local ProduceNYT Bestseller Pressure & What Stays Exclusive to the BooksCulinary influences from Mizrahi, Sephardi, and Ashkenazi traditionsTel Aviv’s food scene and local markets like Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) Links to Things Mentioned in the Episode: Adeena Sussman Instagram Zariz Cookbook Shabbat Cookbook Sababa Cookbook Trump moves closer to a major war with Iran The Electoral System in Israel Carmel Market Real-time red alerts in Israel Shielded by Fire: Middle East Air Defense During the June 2025 Israel-Iran War Food Network's New York City Wine & Food Festival United Hatzalah Chanie Apfelbaum Busy in Brooklyn Naama Shefi Rachel Simons Jake Cohen Bengingi Breads Bakery  Adeena Sussman: Came to Israel for love, stayed for food Adeena Sussman Substack A Stain on Israel’s Soul: Remembering Hersh Goldberg-Polin and the Beautiful Six Tears From The Sky Ellie Krieger  Cholent First Tango with Mango: Iraqi Amba Israeli produce is the best. Here’s why: Sisters fight cancer, honor mother by rolling out the dough Sheet Pan Latke Board Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.  https://oramag.co/ Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Chen, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald,  Production Associates: Rachel Stern, Charlie Zuker, Production Interns: Sasha Nelson, Emma Webb,  YouTube Consultants: Jason Al-Samarrie & Zac Stein, Post Production by TIMEWEAVER, Creative Director: F. Brian Scofield, ACE, Lead Editor: Noam Klement, Editor: Gray Clevenger, Joe King. Graphic Designer: Noah Bell, Theme Music by Gabriel Mann, Performed by Jonah Platt

    1h 2m
  2. The Genocide Libel and Comedian Modi Rosenfeld

    FEB 17

    The Genocide Libel and Comedian Modi Rosenfeld

    In this delightful and hilarious episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, comedian Modi Rosenfeld opens up about faith, fame, identity, and building unity through Jewish comedy. Recently named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 10 New York Comedians, Modi discusses what it means to be a proudly Jewish comedian in today’s cultural climate, and why laughter is his path to creating what he calls “Messianic energy.” From performing at the Comedy Cellar, the Republican Jewish Coalition, and soon Radio City Music Hall, to navigating conversations with fellow comics like Dave Chappelle and Ben Shapiro, Modi shares candid insights on comedy, politics, and Jewish pride. He reflects on growing up Israeli in America, coming out as gay later in life, marrying his husband Leo, and supporting LGBTQ inclusion within the Orthodox community through organizations like Eshel. Modi also reveals how COVID, Zoom shows, and social media transformed his career into a global brand with audiences in Israel, Europe, and beyond. With humor and heart, this episode explores Judaism, comedy, Israel, identity, and the power of laughter to bring people together in divided times. Topics discussed include: Modi Rosenfeld on being a “Jewish comedian” vs. a comedian who happens to be JewishRoasting Ben Shapiro at a Commentary Magazine eventFollowing Donald Trump at the Republican Jewish CoalitionTouring internationally in Israel, Paris, Berlin, and LondonProcessing October 7th and performing in Europe amid rising antisemitismGrowing up Israeli-American on Long IslandMarriage, faith, and partnership with husband LeoSupporting LGBTQ Orthodox Jews through EshelPreparing for his upcoming Radio City Music Hall debutBuilding a global audience via Instagram and post-COVID Zoom comedyThe meaning behind his tour title: Pause for Laughter Mentioned In The Episode: Anti-Jew Libels DECONSTRUCTED - Jonah Platt Debunks 4 Lies About Israel & The Jewish People (Part 1) Modi Rosenfeld Website Modi Rosenfeld Instagram The reasons why what is happening in Gaza is not genocide Amnesty International is among the NGOs bashing Israel Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and his aid to the Nazis B’tselem’s “broader analytical framework”  The U.N. Official Who Said Hamas is not a Terrorist Organization The U.N. Condemned Israel 17 Times, more than the rest of the world combined  Alice Nderitu of the U.N. said Israel’s campaign in Gaza doesn’t meet the definition of genocide. She was fired. Anyone can be a member of the International Association of Genocide Scholars, Including Cookie Monster and Emperor Palpatine Arab countries ban Al-Jazeera  Israel distributes over 1 million polio vaccines in Gaza Palestinian death toll passes 70,000 Defining genocide in a post WW2 world Isreal’s critics rewrite the definition of genocide Hineni Society Event with World-Renowned Comedian Modi David Attel Instagram Jeff Ross Instagram Jerry Seinfeld Instagram Chris Rock  Who are the classic Catskill Comedians Old Jewish Catskill Comedian's Classic Jokes The Messianic Era Release of latest Epstein files unleashes online wave of antisemitic conspiracies Modi | Know Your Audience (Full Comedy Special) Q&A | Comedian Modi Is Running on ‘Moshiach Energy’ What Are Tefillin? The Gestapo: Overview Jewish comedian Modi Rosenfeld, a mainstay for Orthodox audiences, is gay. So what? The Comedy Cellar Ben Shapiro Roasted By MODI Dave Chappelle Mocks “I Stand With Israel” Dave Chappelle and the Space Jews Jon Carhart Republican Jewish Coalition U.S. Congressman Mike Johnson Orthodox Judaism and LGBTQ Issues Eshel  Ritual Hand Washing Before Meals What is Chabad? A New Light Fran Liebowitz Modi Rosenfeld, Gay Jewish Comedian, Talks ‘Moshiach’ Energy, Celebrating Shabbat and Comparisons to Robin Williams and Richard Pryor Ta’anit 22a-b: A Place in the World to Come France reports dozens of antisemitic acts since Hamas attack The History of Hatikvah Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.  https://oramag.co/ Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    1h 10m
  3. EMERGENCY MINI-POD! Behind Robert Kraft’s Blue Square Super Bowl Ad with Org President Adam Katz

    FEB 11

    EMERGENCY MINI-POD! Behind Robert Kraft’s Blue Square Super Bowl Ad with Org President Adam Katz

    In this special emergency episode, host Jonah Platt interviews Adam Katz, president of the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate. They discuss the purpose and strategy behind the $15 million 2026 Super Bowl ad aired by the organization, founded by Patriots’ owner Robert Kraft. The discussion covers the ad's target audience, primarily the unengaged Americans oblivious to the severity of antisemitism. Adam explains the rigorous data-driven process behind creating and testing the ad and addresses varying reactions and criticisms from the Jewish community. The episode also explores the effectiveness and future direction of the organization’s campaign to combat Jewish hate, emphasizing the importance of allyship and broader community action. Topics include: The Super Bowl Ad: Goals and Target AudienceThe Creative Process Behind the AdTesting and Refining the AdAddressing Criticisms and ReactionsThe Importance of Allyship and Audience TargetingMeasuring the Impact of the CampaignThe Blue Square InitiativeEvolution of the Organization and MessagingWhat it means to actively participate in fighting Jewish hate Mentioned in the episode: Adam Katz Adam Katz LinkedIn Blue Square Alliance Robert Kraft Blue Square Super Bowl ad Robert Kraft and the Kraft Group Blue Square Alliance Jewish Hate Data Other Blue Square ads Gen Z & Anti-Jew Hate Freedom to Marry Sharing Blue Square on Social Media Request a Blue Square Pin Black Unity Event  Davos Blue Square Pins  Van Jones Wearing Blue Square on CNN GLAAD Association Shift from Combat Hate/Antisemitism to BSA BSA Super Bowl Commercial 2025 Snoop Dogg and Tom Brady "Tony" 2023 Swastika Painted on the Garage Isaiah BSA Spot What's Up With Hate Instagram When There Are No Words Ad Being Jewish: Discussing When There Are No Words Stand Up To Jewish Hate Instagram Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish Subscribe to Ora, A Luxury Jewish Lifestyle and Culture Magazine.  https://oramag.co/ Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    38 min
  4. Antizionist Libels & Iranian-Jewish Activists Mandana Dayani, Matthew Nouriel & Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh

    FEB 10

    Antizionist Libels & Iranian-Jewish Activists Mandana Dayani, Matthew Nouriel & Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh

    In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Jewish Iranian advocates, Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh of American Jewish University, Mandana Dayani of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, and Matthew Nouriel of JIMENA - Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa, whose families fled persecution by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), offering an urgent and deeply personal look at life under the Iranian regime. The conversation exposes how the IRGC functions not just as a military force, but as an ideological and economic power structure responsible for widespread human rights abuses, political repression, and global terrorism. The guests share personal stories about living under the threat and surveillance of the IRGC.  The episode explores the Iranian regime’s hostility toward Israel, the Jewish community, and the West, while drawing clear distinctions between the Iranian people and their government. Jonah and his guests discuss how the IRGC funds proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, destabilizing the Middle East and exporting violence far beyond Iran’s borders. The conversation also highlights the challenges refugees face when seeking asylum in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and the importance of educating Western audiences about Iran’s internal resistance movements. Ultimately, the episode is a call to awareness, urging listeners to recognize the human cost of extremism and stand with those fighting for freedom, and truth. Topics Include: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its role in IranPolitical repression and surveillance in IranIranian refugees seeking asylum in the United States and CanadaIRGC funding of Hamas and HezbollahIran’s anti-Israel ideology and antisemitismDistinguishing the Iranian people from the Iranian regimeIranian opposition movements and internal resistanceTerrorism exported by Iran across the Middle EastThe impact of October 7 on Iranian dissidents worldwideWestern media narratives about Iran and the IRGCJewish solidarity with persecuted communities under authoritarian regimes Mentioned In The Episode: Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Tarlan Rabizadeh Instagram Matthew Nouriel Instagram Mandana Dayani Instagram Brandolini’s Law Availability Heuristic Inattention Blindness Dhimmi Under Muslim Rule Israel is not an Apartheid State Are Jews White? Infant Death During the Hamas Attack on Israel 'They just kept killing': Eyewitnesses describe deadly crackdown in Iran What Led to the 1979 Iranian Revolution? Over 36,500 killed in Iran's deadliest massacre, documents reveal The expulsion of Jews from Arab countries and Iran – an untold history First Persian Female Rabbi Finds Her Voice Miller Intro to Judaism The Battle for Sheikh Jarrah Why Iranian women are burning their hijabs after the death of Mahsa Amini “Women, Life, Freedom” a new revolutionary era in Iran LGBT Rights in Iran Speaking Up - United Nations Special Session on Oct. 7th: Mandana Dayani ADL and JLens Urge Accountability Regarding Huda Kattan's Antisemitic Remarks Huda Beauty faces boycott campaign over founder’s Iran protest video Rediscovering the Lost Tribes and God’s Faithfulness: The Jewish Diaspora and Aliyah Iranian Diaspora Collective How Ancient Persians Essentially Saved Judaism As We Know It Today Why Are We So Silent About the Uprising in Iran? Leading Change: How Persian and Jewish Diasporas Can Unite against Antisemitism I came to Israel for Pride. It got canceled. Matthew Nouriel, The Empress Mizrahi American Jewish University Report Shows Foreign-Born Citizens Are More Socially Conservative Than Their Native-Born Counterparts and Are Less Likely to Identify with Either Political Party Matthew Nouriel, Community Engagement Director JIMENA Sephardim, Mizrachim in NY more conservative, less likely to intermarry than peers, per UJA study Ayatollah Khomeini returns to Iran The Ironies of History: The Ukraine Crisis through the Lens of Jewish History Jimmy Carter, blamed by many Iranians for the revolution, dies at 100 The Fascinating History and Political Lives of Jews in Iran Jewish students assaulted, threatened and harassed at UCLA campus Education Department opens second investigation into Yale antisemitism Iran-Iraq War HIAS  United States Holocaust Memorial Council (Board of Trustees) Steven Wise Temple German Jews' Passports Declared Invalid Expulsion to cultural integration: 500 years of Sephardic Jews in Türkiye Did Ezra Reconstruct the Torah or Just Change the Script? Rabbi Tarlan Rabizadeh Named American Jewish University’s VP for Jewish Engagement Jay Sanderson BJJP Persian Gondi on Fridays Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch 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, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    1h 24m
  5. Jewish Values + Reproductive Rights with The Red Tent Fund CEO Allison Korman

    FEB 5

    Jewish Values + Reproductive Rights with The Red Tent Fund CEO Allison Korman

    Host Jonah Platt interviews Allison Tombros Korman, the founder and executive director of the Red Tent Fund, a national abortion fund rooted in Jewish values. The conversation spans Korman's personal and professional journey, including her experiences with antisemitism in progressive spaces post October 7th, that led her to being forced out of her job at the DC Abortion Fund and eventually establishing the Red Tent Fund. They discuss the fund's mission to support abortion seekers through a Jewish lens, the impact of Roe v. Wade's overturning, misconceptions about third-trimester abortions, and the controversial 'Fund Abortion, Not War' campaign.  The Red Tent Fund operates by providing money directly to clinics to aid any abortion seeker regardless of religion or political affiliation, reflecting values of bodily autonomy, compassion, and community care. Discussed The Birth of the Red Tent Fund (Jewish Values, Access for All)The Purpose of Abortion FundsThe Intent and Framework of Reproductive JusticeThe Jewish Perspectives on Abortion, As Interpreted by Rabbis and ScholarsChallenges and Realities of Abortion AccessFund Abortion, Not War: A Controversial MovementWhy People Must Travel Across State Lines for Reproductive HealthThe Research of medical Sociologist Katrina Kimport, PhD, on Why People Get Third Trimester AbortionsThe Intersection of Abortion Rights and Anti-Israel Sentiments Mentioned In The Episode: Red Tent Fund Red Tent Fund Facebook Red Tent Fund Instagram Donate to Red Tent Fund DC Abortion Fund Antisemitism and the DCAF Allison Tombros Korman Tablet Magazine Article Tablet Magazine Roe v. Wade DCAF on Abortion Fund Restorative Justice Michal Cotler-Wunsh Michal-Cotler Wunsh Being Jewish Episode Antisemitism and Antizionism in Reproductive Health What is the Red Tent Fund?  Planned Parenthood National Abortion Hotline Jewish Perspective on Red Tent Site  Parashat Mishpatim Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance Red Tent Partners The Red Tent by Anita Diamant Tikkun Olam U.S. Abortion Rights by State How much does an abortion cost? Data on Third Trimester Abortions Katrina Kimport Fund Abortion Not War Black Women and Reproductive Justice  Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch To contact us & all things BJJP: www.BeingJewishPodcast.com Follow Jonah on: Instagram - @JonahPlatt X - @JonahPlatt Follow Being Jewish on: Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast TikTok - @BeingJewish *Correction: In the episode The Red Tent Fund is described as the first National Jewish Abortion Fund.  The National Council of Jewish Women's (NCJW) Jewish Fund for Abortion Access was the first national Jewish abortion fund, launched in 2022. Written and Hosted by Jonah Platt, Executive Producers: Steve Hein, Jonah Platt, Chief Business Officer: Kenyon Laing, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, Story Producer: Sasha Nelson, Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Production Manager/Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild, Research Associate: Samantha Greenwald,  Production 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

    32 min
  6. My Most Important Monologue, Part 3 of 3 (The Jeremiah Effect) and Bishop Michael J. Fisher

    FEB 3

    My Most Important Monologue, Part 3 of 3 (The Jeremiah Effect) and Bishop Michael J. Fisher

    In this compelling episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Bishop Michael J. Fisher, a prominent Los Angeles faith leader and longtime advocate for Black–Jewish solidarity. The discussion explores Bishop Fisher’s personal journey, deeply influenced by his father, Reverend W. Jerome Fisher, a World War II medic who helped liberate Jews from the Dachau concentration camp. Jonah and Bishop Fisher dig deeply into the real actions Fisher is doing to build bonds and bridges between the black and Jewish communities, and their shared perspective on what advocacy truly means.  Bishop Fisher reflects on building interfaith relationships with leaders such as Rabbi Stewart Vogel and Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback, and on the shared spiritual foundations of Judaism and Christianity, including the meaning of Zion. The discussion also addresses rising antisemitism, the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, and the responsibility of moral leadership in moments of crisis. The episode highlights initiatives like the Freedom Seder and the From Compton to Jerusalem trip, celebrating Israel’s diversity and the Ethiopian Jewish community, while offering a hopeful vision of unity grounded in building relationships, and discovering truth. TOPICS INCLUDE: Bishop Michael J. Fisher on growing up in Compton under the influence of his father, Reverend W. Jerome FisherHis church, The Greater Zion Church FamilyA firsthand family connection to the Holocaust through World War II liberation effortsThe spiritual and historical meaning of Zion in Black Christianity and JudaismBuilding Black–Jewish alliances with Rabbi Stewart Vogel and Rabbi Yoshi ZweibackThe examples of people like Van Jones, Amanda Berman, and Robert Stearns in interfaith bridge-buildingHow the Freedom Seder creates shared Jewish and Black communal spaceUnderstanding antisemitism vs. anti-Zionism after the October 7 Hamas attacksWhy Israel’s diversity challenges apartheid narrativesLessons from the From Compton to Jerusalem leadership trip to IsraelExperiencing the Sigd holiday with the Ethiopian Jewish community (Beyte Israel)Advocacy vs. performative allyship in Black and Jewish communitiesWhy Black–Jewish unity remains essential for social justice in America Mentioned In the Episode: Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Michael J Fisher Instagram Jonah’s (shoes) JP x Air Maccabees (18% off with the code JP18) The Story of Jeremiah Seeing History Through A Foggy Lens Dangers of Exceptionalism Moral Self Licensing Temporal Distance and Discrimination Greater Zion Church Family Origins of Black History Month Freedom Seder LA Brings Together Black, Jewish, and Black-Jewish Leaders for an Evening of Unity and Liberation CNN’s Van Jones Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback Exodus Over Dinner Jerome Fisher World War II Gold Star Veteran from Maryland Reverand Jerome Fisher Passes Away, Organized 1st Black Church in Compton What Was Jim Crow Michael J. Fisher How One Compton Pastor’s Work is Changing Lives by Bridging Health & Faith The Jewish Foundation of Christianity When did Christianity and Judaism Separate? When Did Jesus Stop Being Jewish? Zion: God’s Precious Possession Dr. Maulana Karenga A Long History: American Jews and the NAACP The Tulsa Race Massacre and Oklahoma’s Jews 10 Great Moments of #BlackJewishUnity Challenging the myth of 'white, colonial' Israel Rabbi Stewart Vogel Death of George Floyd Powerful Voices: A New Look at the Rabbi Who Marched with Martin Luther King Tiffany Haddish BJJP Episode The 15 Year Battle for Martin Luther King Jr. Day Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event — Australian police Suspect arrested in predawn fire that left parts of Mississippi’s largest synagogue in charred ruins What to know about the murder of Sarah Pilgrim and Aaron Lischinsky in Washington D.C Stephen Wise Temple Wise hosts Greater Zion Church for joint Shavuot and Pentecost celebration Was Jesus’ Last Supper a Seder? Peter and the Disciples Falling Asleep - Matthew 26:40 The Old Testament Pentecost: Why Did Jesus Pour Out His Spirit on This Particular Day? Robert Sterns BLM’s Support of Hamas Is Perfectly in Line With Its Goals Rediscovering the Lost Tribes and God’s Faithfulness: The Jewish Diaspora and Aliyah Israel’s Ethnic Diversity: Why the Population of the Jewish Nation is Far From Monolithic Amanda Berman Black and Jewish people were allies once. Can they be again? Martin Luther King Jr. Assassination Redlining of Jewish Neighborhoods to Make It Difficult to Get a Mortgage Jewish Americans: Identity, History, and Experience Fact Sheet Seder2015 streams a digital Passover What is the law of first mention? Black leaders journey from their hip-hop home to the Holy Land — and find common ground What Even IS Sigd? A Short Explainer Nick Cannon opens up about past antisemitic comments and his ‘growth moment’ April Powers California schools inch closer to rescuing mental health funds slashed by Trump Global Missions — Greater Zion Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter For Sponsorships, please email: jonahplattinfo@gmail.com Merchandise https://beingjewishpodcast.com/merch 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, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    1h 10m
  7. My Most Important Monologue, Part 2 of 3 (Antizionism) & Israeli Oz Party Leader Dr. Einat Wilf

    JAN 27

    My Most Important Monologue, Part 2 of 3 (Antizionism) & Israeli Oz Party Leader Dr. Einat Wilf

    In this essential episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah speaks with Israeli public intellectual, former Knesset member, and political strategist Dr. Einat Wilf about Israel’s political future in the wake of October 7th. Wilf argues that Israel has reached a historic inflection point — one that requires shedding what she calls a lingering “diaspora consciousness” and fully embracing permanent, sovereign thinking. Drawing on decades of scholarship and public service, Wilf challenges many of the assumptions that have shaped Israeli politics and peace efforts. She explains why the conflict cannot be resolved through ambiguity or process alone, why ideology — not borders — has been the central obstacle to peace, and why international frameworks have repeatedly failed to reckon with Jewish self-determination. From critiques of institutions like UNRWA to hard questions about national service, governance, and borders, Wilf calls for a renewed Israeli social contract rooted in responsibility, realism, and permanence. This episode is a rigorous exploration of sovereignty, accountability, and political maturity, offering listeners a clear vision of what it would mean for Israel and the Jewish people to stop thinking provisionally, and start acting like a nation that fully believes it is here to stay. Topics include: Understanding Israel's Political SystemFounding the Oz PartyArab ZionismClarifying BordersStrengthening the KnessetService to the State and Belonging in IsraelFrom Diaspora Consciousness to Sovereign ConductSeparation of Shul and StateWorthy Leadership and Women in PoliticsThe Oz Party's Vision and StrategyAppealing to a Diverse AudienceUNRWA and Palestinian Relationship and Legacy Thank you to this episode’s sponsor  SAPIR. Mentioned in this Episode: Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Einat Wilf Instagram Einat Wilf X International Authors Call For Ban of Israeli Authors A Call For Israeli Athletes to be Banned Has Zionism Become a Bad Word The Jewish Enemy Origins of the Medieval Myth about the Jewish Drinking the Blood of Children Movement Against Antizionism Associated Press’s Coverage of Israel Why Israel’s Conflicts are Covered So Much More Than Other Countries Shaul Kelner’s Article On Antizionism as a Mass Movement in The U.S.  Shaul Kelner Early 20th Century Soviet Anti Zionism Jewish UCLA Student Blocked By Protesters Amnesty International Suspends Its Israeli Branch US Coffee House Refuses to Serve Jews Why I Founded the Oz Party Eretz Israel  How do Israeli Politics Work? Yesh Atid The Work of the Knesset Dr. Einat Wilf: 'We lied to ourselves about the Palestinians' Peace in the Middle East? The first thing that needs to happen is the destruction of the ideology at the heart of Palestinian identity. 5 Facts About the Jewish People's Ancestral Connection to the Land of Israel UNRWA Exposed, Examining the Agency’s Mission and Failures Ministers reportedly decide to keep Rafah Crossing shut, bucking US pressure amid anger over Board of Peace Separation of Shul and State In Conversation with Einat Wilf on a New Israeli Vision Who Is the Wicked Son? Who Are the Haredim? Statement on the Death of Yahya Sinwar Only 7% of Israeli Arabs define themselves as 'Palestinian' ‘We’d rather die than enlist’: Haredi Jews vow to defy conscription The Judicial Overhaul Post October 7 The State of Israel as a Jewish State 'Haredi schools need to meet minimum standards' 13 Political Parties and Democracy: The Israeli Case Campaign Financing in Israel Einat Wilf: ‘Jews Are Never Allowed To Win, and Arabs Are Never Allowed to Lose’ We Should All Be Zionists Podcast Einat Wilf Books (Amazon) Israel: A Democracy Like No Other in the Middle East The United Nations Korean Reconstruction Agency O-zionist to Allow People to Mobilize Israeli Friends  The Collapse of the Soviet Union  The Iranian Revolution, 40 Years On: Oppression at Home, Aggression Abroad --  Support the podcast directly by becoming a member of the Kehillah. Watch Being Jewish on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter: 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, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    1h 5m
  8. My Most Important Monologue (Part 1 or 3) and Entertainment Icon Howie Mandel

    JAN 20

    My Most Important Monologue (Part 1 or 3) and Entertainment Icon Howie Mandel

    In this energetic and wide-ranging episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah sits down with comedy and television icon Howie Mandel (America’s Got Talent, Deal or No Deal, Gremlins, St. Elsewhere) for a conversation that moves effortlessly between laughter and reflection. From his early days as a stand-up comic to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in television, Howie reflects on a career that has spanned more than four decades, and the values that have grounded him throughout it. With trademark honesty and humor, Howie opens up about his Jewish upbringing, family life, and how Jewish values have shaped his worldview both onstage and off. The conversation also takes a more serious turn as Howie speaks candidly about the resurgence of antisemitism, the aftermath of October 7th, and what it has felt like to navigate Jewish identity in an increasingly hostile global climate. Thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly moving, this episode offers a rare glimpse into how one of comedy’s most familiar figures navigates faith, fear, and responsibility to show up when it matters most. Topics Discussed Include: Howie’s Jewish upbringing in TorontoHow comedy became a creative outlet and coping mechanism for anxiety and OCDThe influence of Howie’s father on his Jewish values and identityHowie’s early years doing stand-upHowie’s opinion on tzedakah   Why Israel struggles with public perceptionJewish identity and visibility in a time of rising antisemitismHowie speaks out about injustice and intolerancePro-Palestinian vs. Anti-Israel movements: understanding the differenceHowie on NBC, Hollywood, and Jewish representationJews being targets for their appearance outside of NY and LA Howie’s goal, “I just wanna do the right thing.” Thank you to this episode's sponsors The Dream Raffle and SAPIR. Mentioned In The Episode: Part 1:The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 2: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Part 3: The ONLY 3 Facts You Need to Know About Israel, Palestine, and the Jews Ultimate Nite Out Featuring Debra Messing and Jonah Platt Watch America’s Got Talent (NBC) Howie Mandel Instagram Howie Mandel Website Howie Mandel Does Stuff (YouTube) What You Need to Know About Israel's The Iron Dome Qatar’s Investments in the US Education System Russia’s Interference in US Elections Continues to Get More Brazen China’s Potential Use of TikTok Is A National Security Threat Yuri Bezmenov and his Stages of Ideological Subversion Israel Recognizes Somaliland as an Independent Country “I Have a Tough Time Being with Myself.” Howie Mandel on living with OCD, ADHD, and anxiety B’rit Mialh: The Circumcision Ritual Howie Mandel discusses saying the Kaddish for his father Everything You Need to Know About the Jewish Custom of Shiva Minyan: The Congregational Quorum Tzedakah 101 Are the Jews the Chosen People? Meet Howie Mandel's 3 talented kids with his wife of 45 years —2 options with regard to his in-laws being holocaust survivors— A survivors’ love story, and a game-changing secret Howie Mandel to Appear at Malibu Film Society The Role of Doctors and Nurses Myth: Jews Have Too Much Power Why Israel is losing the PR war Did Israel Bomb a Hospital? No. What to Know About Hamas’ Lie About a Rocket Strike on a Gaza Hospital Collecting German Air-dropped Leaflets on Britain Israeli film on Oct. 7 premieres at Toronto film festival after initially being dropped Masada Haifa Watch Inspector Gadget (Xumo) Haim Saban (IMDB) Shuki Levi Bondi Beach terrorists ‘acted alone’ in attack on Hanukkah event Howie Mandel Ari Shaffir clip on antisemitism. Ari Shaffir Instagram Why Do We Wear a Kippah? What Is Tzitzit? Former SNL comedian Jay Pharoah says he was racially profiled by police, detained with knee on his neck St. Elsewhere (Apple TV) Demonstrators rally across the U.S. in response to violent conflict between Israel and Hamas Watch Little Monsters (Pluto TV) Dayenu Proto Hologram Howie Mandel Become ESports Team Owner 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, Chief Marketing Officer: Katya Nayman, 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

    1h 3m
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Being Jewish with Jonah Platt is the hit weekly podcast that illuminates the vast, beautiful, and often unexplored tapestry of Jewish identity, through deeply honest and personal conversations with notable Jews and non-Jewish allies alike. Hosted by actor & advocate Jonah Platt, a trusted expert in contemporary Jewish culture, identity, and politics, Being Jewish seeks to engage, educate, and empower listeners to take full ownership of their identities and live as their proudest, most authentic selves. 2025 Webby Honoree | Podcasts - Best Indie Podcast 2025 Wilbur Award Winner

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