Here I Am With Shai Davidai

Shai Davidai
  • 4.7 (354)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Here I Am with Shai Davidai explores the rising tide of anti-semitism through discussions with the top Jewish voices in this ongoing battle. Shai Davidai, a Professor at Columbia University, became well known for his viral speech against hate towards Jews on Columbia's campus. Since then, he has been an active voice in this controversy. Shai now brings the voices of hope together in this groundbreaking podcast.

  1. Social Media Has Become Israel’s New Front Line | Founder Brian Spivak

    6D AGO

    Social Media Has Become Israel’s New Front Line | Founder Brian Spivak

    In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Brian Spivak, founder of Barzel Media, to discuss Brian’s journey from tech sales in Tel Aviv to Jewish advocacy and influencer marketing after October 7th. Brian shares how the events of October 7th transformed his identity and led him to support Israel and the Jewish diaspora through innovative influencer campaigns. He talks about his work with the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the challenges influencers face when supporting Israel, and the creation of Barzel Media’s “economic iron dome” to help pro-Israel voices maintain brand partnerships. The conversation also touches on community, resilience, and the importance of standing up for one’s values in the face of adversity. Don’t miss this inspiring story of passion, adaptability, and making a difference. Guest: Brian Spivak Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #BrianSpivak #BaselMedia #JewishAdvocacy #Israel #InfluencerMarketing #October7 #JewishIdentity #TelAviv #Diaspora #HostageFamilies #EconomicIronDome #ProIsrael #JewishCommunity #JewishPride #SocialImpact #BrandPartnerships #JewishVoices #JewishResilience #JewishPodcast #JewishInfluencers #StandWithIsrael #JewishUnity #JewishValues #JewishLife #JewishHistory #JewishSupport #JewishCulture #JewishStories Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 8m
  2. Being Israeli at Harvard after October 7th | Educator & Researcher Barak Sella

    JAN 26

    Being Israeli at Harvard after October 7th | Educator & Researcher Barak Sella

    In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Barak Sella—Israeli-American educator, Harvard Kennedy School researcher, and expert on US-Israel relations. Barak shares his personal journey from growing up in Texas to becoming a leader in Israeli youth movements, and discusses his work on impactful projects like Operation Human Warmth and the fight against child poverty in Israel. The conversation explores the challenges of Jewish identity, the importance of youth leadership, and Barak’s experiences navigating academia and activism after October 7th. Barak also reflects on the evolving relationship between Israel and the Jewish diaspora, the significance of Rabin’s assassination, and the need for nuanced dialogue in today’s polarized world. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on leadership, resilience, and hope for the future. Guest: Barak Sella Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #BarakSella #Israel #JewishIdentity #USIsraelRelations #HarvardKennedySchool #JewishDiaspora #YouthLeadership #OperationHumanWarmth #IsraeliYouthMovements #Peace #JewishCommunity #RabinAssassination #Zionism #JewishHistory #MiddleEast #JewishEducation #Leadership #Activism #SocialImpact #JewishValues #JewishLeaders #JewishFuture #JewishResilience #JewishHope #JewishCulture #JewishHeritage #JewishPride #JewishVoices Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 7m
  3. The Moment Therapy Turned Political | Psychologists and Founders Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel

    JAN 19

    The Moment Therapy Turned Political | Psychologists and Founders Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel

    In this episode of "Here I Am," host Shai Davidai sits down with Jessica Zmood and Shelly Steinwurtzel, co-founders of Gesher Campus Care. They discuss their personal journeys as Jewish therapists, the impact of October 7th on the Jewish community, and the rise of anti-Semitism and traumatic invalidation on college campuses. Jessica and Shelly share how their nonprofit connects Jewish students, faculty, and staff with safe, supportive, and culturally competent therapists. They explore the challenges of finding truly safe therapeutic spaces in a climate where "decolonizing therapy" can sometimes invalidate Jewish experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of Jewish pride, resilience, and community, and offers hope for a future where everyone can express their identity without fear. Guest: Dr. Jessica Zmood and Dr. Shelly Steinwurzel Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #JessicaZmood #ShellySteinwurtzel #GesherCampusCare #JewishCommunity #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #CampusLife #MentalHealth #Therapy #JewishPride #JewishResilience #October7 #TraumaSupport #SafeSpaces #CulturalCompetence #JewishStudents #CollegeCampuses #JewishFaculty #JewishStaff #DecolonizingTherapy #IHRA #JewishEducation #JewishHistory #JewishTherapists #JewishSupport #JewishSolidarity #JewishHealing #JewishVoices Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 27m
  4. Understanding Iran Before It’s Too Late | UN Spokesperson and Journalist Jonathan Harounoff

    JAN 12

    Understanding Iran Before It’s Too Late | UN Spokesperson and Journalist Jonathan Harounoff

    Join host Shai Davidai as he sits down with Jonathan Harounoff, British journalist, international spokesperson for Israel’s Mission to the UN, and author of "Unveiled: Inside Iran’s Woman Life Freedom Revolt." Johnny shares his unique perspective as a British Jew of Persian descent, reflecting on his multicultural background, experiences with anti-Semitism at top universities, and his journey into journalism. In this episode, Jonathan discusses the origins and impact of Iran’s Woman, Life, Freedom movement, the challenges faced by the Iranian people under the Islamic Republic, and the resilience of Iran’s Jewish community. The conversation explores the complexities of identity, the power of protest, and the importance of international solidarity. Don’t miss this insightful discussion about history, activism, and hope for a brighter future in Iran and beyond. Guest: Jonathan Harounoff NOTE: This episode was filmed on October 23, 2025 Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #JohnnyHarounoff #UnveiledBook #iranprotests2022 #womanlifefreedom #mahsaamini #iranianrevolution #jewishdiaspora #middleeast #humanrights #iranianwomen #freedommovement #AntiSemitism #journalism #UN #israel #PersianJewish #diasporavoices #socialjustice #activism #iranhistory #protestmovement #identity #internationalrelations #jewishcommunity #IranianJewry #womenempowerment #middleeastpolitics #HopeForIran Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 15m
  5. Here I Am Being Jewish | Actor, Singer, and Podcast Host Jonah Platt

    JAN 5

    Here I Am Being Jewish | Actor, Singer, and Podcast Host Jonah Platt

    In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with actor, advocate, and podcast host Jonah Platt for a heartfelt conversation about Jewish identity, community, and advocacy. Jonah shares his personal journey growing up in a deeply Jewish family, the importance of intentionality in passing down Jewish values, and how he fosters a sense of belonging and pride in his own children. The discussion explores generational shifts in Jewish identity, the challenges young Jews face in balancing tradition with modern social circles, and the complexities of supporting Israel in today’s climate. Jonah also reflects on his experiences hosting the “Being Jewish” podcast, memorable guests, and the lessons he’s learned about celebrating Jewish diversity and humanity. The episode wraps up with rapid-fire questions, touching on family, hope, and the importance of giving back. This is an inspiring and thoughtful episode about embracing identity, fostering community, and leading with curiosity and compassion Guest: Jonah Platt Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAmPodcast #ShaiDavidai #JonahPlatt #BeingJewish #JewishIdentity #JewishCommunity #JewishPride #JewishPodcast #JewishAdvocacy #JewishPeoplehood #JewishValues #JewishFamily #JewishTradition #JewishCulture #Israel #JewishLife #JewishHeritage #JewishVoices #JewishConversation #JewishDiversity #JewishHistory #JewishFuture #JewishUnity #JewishLeadership #JewishParenting #JewishEducation #JewishHolidays #JewishMusic #JewishHollywood #JewishDiaspora #JewishSupport #JewishHope #JewishCharity #JewishPhilanthropy #JewishYouth #JewishFaith #JewishLearning #JewishPride #JewishResilience #JewishExperience #JewishPodcastHost Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 8m
  6. The Hidden War On Jewish Professors | Writer and Professor Andrew Pessin

    12/29/2025

    The Hidden War On Jewish Professors | Writer and Professor Andrew Pessin

    In this episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Andrew Pessin, a philosophy professor at Connecticut College and author of several books on anti-Semitism and philosophy. Andrew shares his personal journey, including his "Herzl moment"—the realization that anti-Zionism is a form of anti-Semitism—sparked by a social media controversy in 2015. He recounts the backlash he faced after a Facebook post about the Israel-Hamas conflict was taken out of context, leading to international outrage and threats. The conversation explores the rise of anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism on college campuses, the challenges faced by Jewish and Zionist professors and students, and the broader societal implications. Andrew also discusses his ongoing work documenting campus incidents, the importance of Jewish education, and his hope for the next generation. This candid discussion sheds light on the complexities of identity, academic freedom, and the fight against bigotry in today’s world. Guest: Andrew Pessin Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #hereiampodcast #shaidavidai #AndrewPessin #podcast #jewishidentity #Antisemitism #AntiZionism #israel #campuslife #academicfreedom #jewishcommunity #zionisme #jewishhistory #CollegeCampuses #socialjustice #jewisheducation #jewishvoices #jewishpride #JewishStudents #JewishProfessors #CancelCulture #freespeech #jewishpodcast #JewishIssues #jewishphilosophy #JewishRights #JewishSafety #JewishSolidarity #JewishSupport #jewishexperience Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 24m
  7. I Didn’t Plan to Go Viral. I Just Had to Speak | Vanessa Hidary

    12/22/2025

    I Didn’t Plan to Go Viral. I Just Had to Speak | Vanessa Hidary

    In this powerful episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Vanessa Hidary, a Sephardic Jew, acclaimed spoken word artist, and Def Poetry Jam alum. Vanessa shares her journey of embracing her Jewish identity with pride and authenticity, breaking stereotypes in the spoken word scene. She discusses her upbringing in New York’s diverse neighborhoods, the creation of her signature piece “Hebrew Mamita,” and the challenges of navigating identity, representation, and community—especially in the wake of October 7th, 2023. Vanessa opens up about her experiences with anti-Semitism, the evolution of her activism, and the importance of celebrating Jewish diversity. The episode features moving poetry, honest reflections, and a message of unity and resilience. Guest: Vanessa Hidary Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! GofundDonate to Support the Here I Am with Shai Davidai Podcast, organized by Shai Davidai COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! PatreonGet more from Here I Am with Shai Davidai on Patreon 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: RssHere I Am With Shai Davidai | Podcast on RSS.com Apple Podcasts: AppleHere I Am With Shai Davidai Spotify: SpotifyHere I Am With Shai Davidai Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    1h 16m
  8. The $1 Habit That Raised Millions For Charity | Dr. Johnathan Donath

    12/15/2025

    The $1 Habit That Raised Millions For Charity | Dr. Johnathan Donath

    In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Dr. Johnathan Donath, entrepreneur and founder of Daily Giving. Dr. Donath shares his personal journey, from his family’s legacy of generosity to the life-changing moment that inspired him to launch Daily Giving—a platform that empowers thousands to give charity every single day. Together, they discuss the power of daily acts of kindness, the impact of automated giving, and the challenges and rewards of building a global nonprofit. Dr. Donath also opens up about the emotional stories behind the charities they support, the importance of community, and the lessons he’s learned about perseverance, disappointment, and hope. Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical wisdom, and a powerful reminder of the difference one person—and one dollar a day—can make. Guest: Dr. Johnathan Donath Consider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support! https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH! SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON! https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results 🔔 Subscribe now and never miss an episode 📢 Follow us on social media: Instagram: hereiamwithshaidavidai Tik Tok: hereiamwithshaidavidai / hereiamwithshaidavidai 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform: RSS: https://rss.com/podcasts/hereiamwithshaidavidai/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/here-i-am-with-shai-davidai/id1757483524 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6pI03BMwAuQDbYIy4Zp6ah?si=2bd1c3f8a11c46cd #HereIAm #ShaiDavidai #DrJohnathanDonath #DailyGiving #Charity #GivingBack #JewishCommunity #Nonprofit #Philanthropy #Kindness #Inspiration #Podcast #JewishValues #ActsOfKindness #CommunityImpact #Tzedakah #Mitzvah #Hope #Humanity #SocialGood #ChangeMakers #JewishPodcast #Generosity #MakingADifference #CharityWork #JewishLife #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #Faith #Compassion Credits: Producers: Shai Davidai, Abbie Sophia, Adamit Productions, Naomi Landis, Emma Law-Oppman, Ilana Kalach, Allison Fuller Filmed @ The CAVE Soundstage in Hackensack and edited by Adamit Productions Graphic by Shira Auman For sponsorship opportunities, please email achi@adamitproductions.com

    59 min
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4.7
out of 5
354 Ratings

About

Here I Am with Shai Davidai explores the rising tide of anti-semitism through discussions with the top Jewish voices in this ongoing battle. Shai Davidai, a Professor at Columbia University, became well known for his viral speech against hate towards Jews on Columbia's campus. Since then, he has been an active voice in this controversy. Shai now brings the voices of hope together in this groundbreaking podcast.

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