Sami Steigmann shares his profound experiences as a Holocaust survivor and his mission to educate future generations about the importance of standing up against hate and bullying. He reflects on his life in Israel, military service, and the significance of unity in combating antisemitism or what he calls Jew hatred. Sami emphasizes the power of positivity, resilience, and the need for clear language in advocacy. He discusses current events and their impact on Jewish identity, concluding with a call to action for unity and proactive engagement in the fight against hate. Guest Bio Sami Steigmann is a Holocaust survivor and motivational speaker whose life embodies resilience and moral courage. Born in 1939 in Czernovitz, then part of Romania, he spent his early childhood in a Nazi labor camp in Transnistria, where he was subjected to medical experiments. Liberated as a child, Sami rebuilt his life in Israel—serving in the Israeli Air Force—and later immigrated to the United States, where he now lives in New York. Having transformed his suffering into a mission, he travels the world speaking to students and communities about hope, tolerance, and the moral duty to “never be a bystander.” His message is simple yet profound: Never give up. Never lose hope. Be part of the solution.

Yocheved shares her journey from growing up in an Orthodox Jewish home in Baltimore to navigating her identity after her parents' divorce. She discusses her anger towards religion during her teenage years and how the events of October 7th reignited her connection to her Jewish roots. Yocheved's brother's military service in Israel influenced her decision to volunteer and support the community. She highlights the importance of understanding the 'why' behind Jewish traditions and the role of Chabad in providing support. Yocheved also discusses her fundraising efforts for supplies in Israel and emphasizes the need for a strong diaspora to support Israel and Jewish identity. Through her work with the Sword of Iron Israel Volunteer Corps, she aims to connect volunteers and inspire others to take action. Guest Bio Yocheved Ruttenberg is the founder and CEO of Sword of Iron Israel Volunteer Corp, the fastest-growing volunteer movement, mobilizing over 40,000+ people worldwide since October 7th. Living in Dallas, Texas, working in sales, she left everything and flew to Israel just days after Oct 7th, bringing 23 duffel bags full of supplies. What was supposed to be a two-week trip turned into Aliyah and a canceled return ticket, dedicating herself fully to bridging gaps between communities globally and inspiring people around the world to take action.

Dr. Charles Jacobs discusses the ongoing issue of modern slavery, particularly in Africa, and reflects on his experiences in activism since the 1990s. He emphasizes the importance of Jewish identity in his work and the need for a unified Jewish response to antisemitism and modern challenges. The discussion also touches on the impact of woke ideology on education, the necessity of forming alliances with other communities, and the importance of building a strong national Jewish movement to combat these issues effectively. Guest Bio Dr. Charles Jacobs is a journalist and veteran social activist named one of America’s top 50 Jewish leaders by The Forward. Over four decades, he has founded or co-founded several groundbreaking human rights and pro-Israel organizations, including CAMERA-Boston, the American Anti-Slavery Group, The David Project, Americans for Peace and Tolerance, The African-Jewish Alliance, and The Jewish Leadership Project. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Jerusalem Post, and on CNN, Fox News, NPR, and PBS. Best known for helping liberate black jihad slaves in Sudan—a mission that earned him the Boston Freedom Award from Coretta Scott King—Jacobs now leads The Jewish Leadership Project, advancing a bold response to rising antisemitism.

Peggy Shapiro shares her profound experiences as a child of Holocaust survivors and her journey into advocacy for Jewish rights and Israel. The discussion covers the importance of forming alliances, the resilience of Jewish identity, the complexities of modern antisemitism, and the challenges faced in media representation of Israel. Peggy emphasizes the need for education and awareness in combating antisemitism and highlights her work with Stand With Us and the Center for Combating Antisemitism. Guest Bio Peggy Shapiro, Executive Director of the Center for Combating Antisemitism, is a child of Holocaust survivors, a lifelong Zionist, and a nationally recognized leader in the fight against antisemitism. Formerly the Midwest Executive Director of StandWithUs, she has championed legislative advocacy, interfaith outreach, and education—bringing together Jewish, Hindu, Christian, and Black communities in support of Israel and against hate. Her leadership has helped secure the passage of anti-BDS legislation and the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism in 36 states. A former professor and department chair, Peggy was appointed by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Elie Wiesel to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, and her work preserving Holocaust testimony is featured at both the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Yad Vashem. Follow CCA on - https://cca-training.org/

Gayle Pearlstein shares her journey from a disassociated Jewish identity to becoming a prominent firearms instructor and the founder of Lox and Loaded, a community-focused self-defense initiative. The discussion explores the evolution of Jewish identity, particularly in the context of rising antisemitism, and the importance of self-defense training within the Jewish community. Gayle emphasizes the need for empowerment through knowledge and practice, while also addressing the legal complexities surrounding firearm ownership in Illinois. The conversation highlights the growth of Lox and Loaded and its mission to create a supportive environment for Jewish individuals and their allies to learn about firearms and self-defense. Gayle Pearlstein is the Co-founder of Lox & Loaded, a Jewish self-defense initiative that empowers communities through firearms training, safety education, and solidarity. A certified instructor and owner of Lucky Star Tactical, she equips Jewish individuals and allies with the skills and confidence to stay safe, stand strong, and preserve identity in challenging times. 📍 Instagram: @loxandloaded | 📍 Facebook: Lox & Loaded | 📍 Website: loxandloaded.org

Max Long shares his journey from Boston to Israel, detailing his experiences as a lone soldier in the IDF and the challenges he faced both in the military and as a Jewish advocate on campus. He discusses the importance of community support for soldiers, the impact of advocacy, and the personal toll of being targeted for his beliefs. Max emphasizes the need for truth in the narrative surrounding Israel and the significance of grassroots organizations in supporting soldiers and their families. Guest Bio Max Long, born in Boston and raised in Newton, Massachusetts, grew up in a proud Zionist family inspired by his grandmother, May Long, founder of Christians and Jews United for Israel. In 2015, he made Aliyah to Israel, serving in the Israel Defense Forces as a lone soldier—those without immediate family in the country—and later founded Growing Wings, a nonprofit that unites grassroots organizations to support and empower lone soldiers. Now based in the U.S. and studying at DePaul University, Max continues to champion Israel advocacy, build community for those who serve, and foster nuanced conversations around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Dr. Andrew Zeidman shares his journey into advocacy following the events of October 7th, where he was personally affected by the hostage situation involving a friend's child. He discusses the evolution of antisemitism, the political landscape in New York, and the role of media in shaping narratives against Jews. Zeidman emphasizes the importance of community activism, coalition building, and creating new platforms for Jewish voices to combat propaganda and misinformation. He expresses concern about the future of Jewish identity and politics, highlighting the need for education and awareness in fighting antisemitism. Guest Bio Bronx-born and raised in Queens, Dr. Andrew Zeideman earned his degree from Columbia University’s Dental School and completed a residency in oral surgery at Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn. Practicing oral surgery since 1988, Dr. Zeideman experienced a life-changing turning point on October 8th that shifted his focus to full-time activism and philanthropy. He has since dedicated himself to advocating for the release of hostages and combating antisemitism, working tirelessly to raise awareness, build coalitions, and drive meaningful change.

Sammy Yahood, a passionate advocate for Jewish identity and self-defense. Sammy shares his journey from a privileged upbringing in London to becoming a vocal advocate for Jewish rights and education. He delves into his experiences traveling the world, the importance of understanding one's identity, and the challenges faced by Jewish communities globally. His insights on resilience, community, and the power of education are both inspiring and thought-provoking. Don't miss this engaging conversation that challenges perceptions and encourages action. Guest Bio Since shortly after October 7, Sammy has taken to social media with a mission to lead like a Maccabi—boldly, unapologetically, and from the front. Confronting hatred with confidence, he believes that courage is not the absence of fear but the decision to act in spite of it, promoting a “Peace Through Strength” mindset to counter the paralysis fear often brings. Motivated by a desire to strengthen and empower the Jewish people—especially in the diaspora—Sammy has volunteered extensively as a Krav Maga instructor, community security detail, and madrich on Taglit Birthright Israel programs. Drawing from Jewish history and resilience, he encourages individuals to get stronger, take initiative, and consider making Aliyah. His content—often relatable, insightful, and infused with humor—aims to inspire while highlighting the existential threats facing both the Jewish people and Western society. Born and raised in London and now living in Israel, Sammy brings professional experience in construction and real estate, having managed high-profile development projects, and is committed to using those leadership skills to uplift and unite the Jewish community. #JewishAdvocacy, #SelfDefense, #Identity, #Israel, #Diaspora, #AntiIsraelRallies, #MediaPerception, #CulturalIdentity, #FreeSocieties, #Adversity, #PoliticalThought

Join us for a captivating episode with Shahar Cohen, the internet's favorite Jewish hurricane. From Tel Aviv's vibrant nightlife to the intricacies of Jewish identity in the digital age, Shahar shares his journey from a career in marketing to becoming a viral sensation on TikTok. Discover how humor serves as both resistance and reflection, and why he believes in uniting people through laughter. Don't miss this insightful conversation that blends comedy with cultural commentary. Tune in and laugh along with us! Shahar Cohen is an internationally acclaimed Israeli comedian, content creator, and performer best known for his viral “America vs. Israel” videos and his beloved character Nofar. Blending sharp observational humor with cultural insight, Shahar’s work resonates with global audiences through sold-out shows across Europe, North America, and Israel. His hit show My Life features both stand-up and character performance, offering a hilarious, heartfelt look at cultural differences, Jewish identity, and life between Israel and the world. With humor, nuance, and heart, Shahar uses comedy to connect, reflect, and entertain. City Winery Chicago Presents Shahar Cohen: My Life Show with Orly KG Live on Wednesday, September 17th at 7:30 PM! Buy your tickets at, https://citywinery.com/chicago/events/shahar-cohen-h6a4oe 🔗 Subscribe and follow for more episodes on Jewish identity, solidarity, activism & advocacy Podcast Music - Paradigm Shift by Daniel Schwartz -https://soundcloud.com/danny-schwartz-4

Michael Kaminsky, president of Students Supporting Israel at DePaul University shares his journey of discovering his Jewish identity, becoming an activist, and organizing a significant pro-Israel rally at DePaul. The conversation delves into the challenges of confronting antisemitism on campus, the role of university administrations, and the importance of community support. Michael emphasizes the need for accountability and collaboration among Jewish organizations and reflects on the current state of antisemitism and the future of Jewish students. He also shares his aspirations for a career in public service and offers advice to the next generation of Jewish students. Guest Bio Michael Kaminsky is a dedicated Jewish civil rights advocate and student leader at DePaul University. He serves as Senior Outreach Coordinator for the Chicago Jewish Alliance and as President of Students Supporting Israel at DePaul, where he works to combat antisemitism, build strong community coalitions, and empower students nationwide. Passionate about public service and education, Michael uses his platform to strengthen Jewish visibility and to build a future that is stronger, safer, and more united for both the American and Jewish communities. Podcast Music - Paradigm Shift by Daniel Schwartz -https://soundcloud.com/danny-schwartz-4

In this powerful episode, Daniel & Simona sit down with Pastor Dumisani Washington, founder of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI), for a thought-provoking conversation on unity, history, and truth. Pastor Washington shares the mission behind IBSI, his journey bridging Black and Jewish narratives, and how historical and cultural connections can inform present-day alliances. Together with the Chicago Jewish Alliance, this dialogue uncovers the deeper synergy between two communities rooted in resilience and a shared commitment to justice. From Africa to Israel to Chicago, Pastor Washington offers profound insights on identity, advocacy, and the pursuit of truth in an era of division. Don't miss Pastor Washington’s upcoming visit to Chicago on August 5th. 🔗 Subscribe and follow for more episodes on advocacy, identity, and solidarity. #TruthSeeking #CulturalConnections #BlackJewishAlliance #IBSI #ChicagoJewishAlliance

In this conversation, Josh Weiner and Daniel Schwartz engage with Casey Babb, exploring his Jewish upbringing, the evolution of Jewish identity, and the current state of antisemitism in Canada. They discuss the cultural shifts in Jewish representation, the impact of social media, and the implications of decolonization on Jewish identity. The conversation also touches on the political polarization affecting Jewish communities and the challenges posed by immigration and integration. Ultimately, they reflect on the uncertain future of Jewish life in Canada amidst rising antisemitism and societal changes. About the guests Dr. Babb is a Senior Fellow at the MacDonald Laurier Institute and holds fellowships with leading institutions including the Institute for National Security Studies (Tel Aviv), the Royal United Services Institute (London), and the Zelikovitz Centre for Jewish Studies (Ottawa). He teaches International Security at Carleton University's Norman Paterson School and serves as a strategic advisor to Secure Canada. His scholarly work spans terrorism, cyber conflict, and Israeli national security. Widely recognized for his expertise on antisemitism and Israeli affairs, Dr. Babb’s insights have been featured in major outlets such as CNN, BBC, FOX News, The Globe and Mail, Newsweek, and The Jerusalem Post. He holds degrees in Political Science and International Development (BA), International Relations (MA), and a Ph.D. in International Relations. Josh Weiner is the Chief Marketing & Development Officer at NAVI. Based near Chicago, he studied at the University of Minnesota. A self-described liberal Zionist Jew and fourth-generation survivor, Josh is an outspoken advocate against antisemitism and radical ideologies in education. His work includes public speaking, panel discussions, and community activism, and he is vocal on social media about Jewish identity, LGBTQ+ rights, and civic values.

Hi, Welcome to Jew & Stew. I'm Daniel Schwartz from the Chicago Jewish Alliance. This show is about what it means to be Jewish on the front lines, in advocacy, in academia and in the fight against antisemitism wherever it shows up. It's also about where we need to take a stand and where it's easier to stay quiet, but where we shouldn't. This is Jew and Stew. Pull up a chair. Let's get into it.