What happens when ancient Jewish texts meet modern-day digital culture? In this thought-provoking episode of Schmoozing Time, I sit down with Miriam Anzovin—a trailblazing voice reshaping the way young Jews connect with tradition, identity, and the Talmud. Together, we dive into why Judaism isn't just about what you do, but why you do it—unpacking the deeper meaning behind rituals, the evolving role of women in Jewish learning spaces, and the power of disagreement as a sacred form of growth.
Miriam opens up about her own personal journey: from feeling disconnected from Jewish learning to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the online Talmud space. She shares how social media can be both a powerful tool and a dangerous distraction in the process of Jewish exploration, and how humor, curiosity, and critical thinking can be radical acts of engagement. Whether you're religious, secular, or somewhere in between, this episode will challenge the way you think about Jewish identity, tradition, and the stories we tell ourselves about both.
Miriam Anzovin is a writer, content creator, and speaker known for her viral “Daf Reactions” series, which brings Talmud study to life with humor and authenticity. Through her work, she has sparked widespread conversations about accessibility, feminism, and the future of Jewish learning. Miriam’s creative approach bridges generations, inviting people of all backgrounds to explore Jewish texts in bold and unexpected ways.
Check Out Miriam’s Work: https://www.miriamanzovin.com/
Summary:
00:00 Introduction to Jewish Identity Exploration
01:58 Miriam's Journey Through Judaism
03:37 Rediscovering Talmud and Its Significance
08:42 The Role of Women in Talmudic Study
12:24 Disagreement and Debate in Talmudic Tradition
17:17 The Importance of Text in Judaism
23:45 Personal Paths in Jewish Identity
27:38 Understanding Jewish Practices and Their Origins
27:52 The Importance of Learning the 'Why' Behind Traditions
29:54 Wrestling with Kashrut: Tradition vs. Understanding
32:15 The Role of Social Media in Jewish Identity
36:32 Navigating Social Media and Cult-like Followings
42:24 Encouraging Active Learning Beyond Social Media
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