Menachem Silverstein is Known for wearing many hats, he reflects on how each role—from writing commercials to directing and producing—opened doors to the next stage of his career - stand up comedy. He talks about the unique challenges of balancing his Orthodox Jewish identity with life in Hollywood, and how authenticity became the key to connecting with audiences.
In this conversation, we explore what it means to “make it” as a comedian, the role of pivoting in creative careers, and how humor can break down stereotypes and spark deeper dialogue. Menachem offers an honest look at the joys and struggles of performing in Jewish and non-Jewish spaces, his aspirations for the future, and his advice for young creatives: know your goal, but be willing to pivot—and most importantly, just do it.
About Menachem:
Menachem is an Orthodox Jewish writer, comedian, and ordained Rabbi. Born in Brooklyn (where Jews are made) into a family of seven, forced Menachem to come up with ways to stand out in a crowd. And thus, he became the funny one, and later the disappointment for not becoming a lawyer and making his Jewish parents proud. He’s written for TBS Digital, IFC Digital has been on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and is currently a regular at the Hollywood Laugh Factory. He currently works closely with his writing partner, Tehran Von Ghasri.
Artists Menachem thinks you should know:
Tehran Von Ghasri- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tehran_Von_Ghasri
Jeff Wilbusch - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Wilbusch
Jeff Lieber - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Lieber
More about Orange Socks:
Contact us at orangesockspodcast@gmail.com
Now on Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orange-socks-podcast/id1749369628
On Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ec3LbPdujZG531xKLPssh?si=381bf3bb2b624ffd
On Youtubehttps://www.youtube.com/@OrangeSocksPodcast
Connect with Yitzchok Moully
https://www.instagram.com/moullyart/