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Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Jonah Platt
64 episodes
3 days ago
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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Judaism
Religion & Spirituality,
Society & Culture
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All content for Being Jewish with Jonah Platt is the property of Jonah Platt and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
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
Show more...
Judaism
Religion & Spirituality,
Society & Culture
Episodes (20/64)
Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Navigating Comedy, Antisemitism, and the Gaza/Israel War with Impressionist Ami Kozak

Ami Kozak is redefining what Jewish comedy and commentary look like in 2025 — blending sharp impressions, fearless satire, and moral clarity in a time of chaos.


In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Ami — modern Orthodox comedian, musician, and host of the podcast Ami’s House — to talk about how his Jewish faith and sense of moral clarity shaped his response to anti-Jew bigotry and misinformation after October 7.


Ami shares:

  • How growing up modern Orthodox shaped his Jewish identity and worldview
  • Why October 7 changed his purpose as a performer — turning laughter into a vehicle for truth
  • Why he chose to have civil conversations with controversial figures like Candace Owens and Dave Smith — and what those exchanges taught him about engaging bad ideas in good faith
  • The dangers of moral relativism, false “experts,” and the growing misuse of words like “genocide”
  • What he calls “goosebumps with clarity” — balancing empathy with uncompromising honesty
  • His creative process for impressions of President Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, and Zohran Mamdani — and how humor can cut through disinformation

From synagogue to stage, from serious debate to satire, Ami Kozak proves that comedy can do more than make people laugh — it can make them think. 


Hashtags:

#AmiKozak #BeingJewish #30MinuteMensches #JewishComedy #ModernOrthodox #Israel #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #FreeSpeech #JewishHumor #MoralClarity


Mentioned In The Episode:

Ami Kozak Instagram

Ami Kozak X

Ami Kozak Facebook

Ami Kozak YouTube

Ami’s House (podcast)

Yahud

Your Hebrew word for the day: MAMAD

Human Rights Council members who abuse human rights

What is Tikkun Olam?

J-Sketch YouTube 

Alex Edelman

The Karate Kid

Alan Dershowitz

Hasbara

Norman Finkelstein vs Alan Dershowitz On Israel-Palestine War With Piers Morgan | The Full Debate 

Douglas Murrey

Tucker Carlson Wedding Vows Skit

Zohran Mamdani

Kristallnacht

The Second Intifada 2000

Ami Kozak’s Band “Distant Cousins”


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

Show more...
3 days ago
29 minutes 8 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
LIVE FROM PHILLY! Jewish & Native actress Sarah Podemski & activist Lani Anpo (Live from The Weitzman Museum in Philadelphia)

BEING JEWISH goes live! In our first ever East Coast live pod at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, Jonah Platt welcomes two unique voices, Sarah Podemski and Lani Anpo, who share insights into their dual heritage as both Jewish and First Nation/Native American. Sarah is a Canadian actress, best known for her supporting role as Rita in the hit FX television series Reservation Dogs. Lani is a multi-tribal Native American Jewish advocate and educator, who uses her social media platform to champion the rights of hers and other marginalized groups. 


Their conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the significance of Jewish and Native cultural practices, the challenges of acceptance within respective communities, and the similarities between the two indigenous groups. Sarah and Lani share personal stories about their mixed heritage and the impact on their identities, both facing and overcoming external skepticism. The episode also delves into historical contexts such as the impact of blood quantum laws and the diaspora experience, and examines how these factors shape both modern-day struggles and triumphs. 


Sarah and Lani offer thoughtful reflections on the importance of community engagement, cultural preservation, and the struggle for sovereignty, especially for Native American and First Nation tribes. This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience and rich cultural histories of these two unique communities.


Topics covered include:


  • Family Histories and Personal Journeys
  • Challenges of Mixed Heritage
  • Parallels Between Jewish and Native Cultures
  • Support Systems and Resilience
  • Navigating Trauma Together
  • Exploring Israeli Identity
  • Indigeneity and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
  • Native American Reparations
  • Jewish and Native American Cultural Exchange
  • Native American History Month


This episode was produced with and recorded live at the Weitzman National

Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia.


Learn more about The Weitzman at https://theweitzman.org

and follow @weitzmanmuseum on Instagram, X, Facebook, and

YouTube.


Mentioned In The Episode:

  • Lani Anpo Instagram
  • Indijewness on Instagram
  • Sarah Podesmski Instagram
  • The Weitzman Museum on Instagram
  • Watch Reservation Dogs on Hulu
  • Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation
  • Sicangu Lakota Nation
  • Saulteaux
  • The Floaters (Upcoming Film)
  • Jackie Tohn on BJJP
  • Blood Quantum and Sovereignty: A Guide
  • The One-Drop Rule
  • The Jay Treaty
  • Levant
  • Decolonization From 1945
  • Matrilineal Descent in the era of Babylonian Exile
  • Celebrating National Native American Heritage Month
  • Foundational Essay of Patrick Wolf
  • Sara’s Summer Camp: Camp Shomria
  • About Givat Haviva
  • For Jewish Indigenous actress Sarah Podemski, it’s a miracle just to exist (“plugging holes in a sinking ship”)
  • Sarah’s sisters’s PBS series “Little Bird”


Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

beingjewishpodcast@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


Show more...
5 days ago
1 hour 8 minutes 22 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Soulful Dating Advice with Netflix’s Jewish Matchmaker Aleeza Ben Shalom

On the hunt for the perfect NJB (Nice Jewish Boy) or Girl? Look no further! On this love-filled episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah is joined by international matchmaking icon Aleeza Ben Shalom, star of the hit Netflix show 'Jewish Matchmaking.” Aleeza is an author, dating coach, and modern day yente who has successfully matched over 200 couples and coached thousands more. Get ready to find your Beshert! 


Aleeze spills the tea on the most common dating mistakes, and why you might still be single. She also explains the wisdom behind her signature philosophies: “Date ‘em til’ you hate ‘em”  “No touching for five dates” and why “Love is not enough.” Aleeza emphasizes personal growth, compatibility, and building a lasting connection through mutual understanding and shared values. She also discusses her vision for a global matchmaking movement aimed at strengthening communities by helping people find their life partners.


In this episode, Jonah and Aleeza help you YOUR “Beshert” and chat about all of these meaningful topics: 


  • Dating Culture Around the World
  • Challenges in Modern Dating
  • The #1 Dating Mistake People Make
  • Post-Match Coaching and Breakup Rules
  • Understanding Soulmates in Judaism
  • Why Older Singles Are Still Single
  • Opposites Attract vs. Peas in a Pod
  • Date 'Em Till You Hate 'Em 
  • No Touching for Five Dates 
  • The Importance of Compatibility Beyond Love



Mentioned In Episode


  • Aleeza Ben Shalom Website
  • Matchmaker Matchmaker - Podcast
  • Aleeza Ben Shalom Youtube
  • Get Real Get Married: Get Over your Hurdles and Under the Chuppah 
  • Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Find Me a Love That Lasts
  • The Chuppah, or Wedding Canopy
  • Shomer Negiah, the Prohibition on Touching


Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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

Show more...
1 week ago
27 minutes 57 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Making the Implicit Explicit and bestselling author Sarah Hurwitz

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


Our first returning guest, Sarah Hurwitz, rejoins Jonah to discuss her powerful new book As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us — a work as essential as it is uplifting in a post–October 7th world. In this deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation, Sarah reflects on how education can be a true source of empowerment and shares insights from her own evolving Jewish journey. Drawing from years of research and her current pursuit of the rabbinate, she offers a rich, nuanced perspective on what it means to live — and lead — as a Jew today.


For Sarah, Judaism isn’t about any single expression — not just Israel, Hebrew, activism, or observance — but the harmony of all these threads woven together with curiosity, study and connection to the sacred wisdom of our ancient tradition. This episode feels like stepping into a vibrant, welcoming congregation — full of learning, laughter, and meaning. Don’t miss this inspiring and deeply grounding conversation on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editor Diana DeCilio, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Editor: Noem Klement; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell


MENTIONED IN MONOLOGUE


Curse of Knowledge - Cognitive Bias

What Is The Illusion of Transparency?

What is Naive Realism?

Explaining Settler Violence in the West Bank/Judea & Samaria

Understanding the IDF’S Code of Ethics

The Complicated Connection Between President Trump & American Jews

Chicago ICE’s Crackdown Leads To Father of Two Being Shot at Daycare Pickup

As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us by Sarah Hurwitz

Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life–in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There) by Sarah Hurwitz

The Atlantic: The Judaism I Thought I Knew by Sarah Hurwitz

Understanding the “As A Jew” Jews

Emancipation of European Jews

The Jewish Reform Movement in 19th Century Europe

Holy Scriptures of Judaism

Understanding Secular Zionism

Judaism and the Human Body

The Sanctity of the Human Body in Judaism

In God’s Image: B'tselem Elohim

Who is Rabbi Yitz Greenberg?

The Wexner Foundation

Who Were Amalek & The Amalekites?

Homosexuality & The Death Penalty in Leviticus 20

Ancient Teachings of “An Eye for an Eye”

Old Testament Vs New Testament

Why Do People Hate Jews: Dara Horn (Video)

A Look at “Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” by Dara Horn (Short)

“Hanukkah Vs Purim Antisemitism” — Tablet Magazine Article

The Expulsion of Jews From Arab Countries and Iran - An Untold Story

The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Jewish Currents)

The Story of the Soviet Jews & Israel (Indiana Law Journal)

Ethiopian Jews in Israel: Operation Solomon & More

Anti-Judaism: The Western Tradition by David Nirenberg

What Is The Great Replacement Theory & What Should Jews Know About It?

British Foreign Minister Ernest Bevin at the Palestine Conference

What Is Brandolini’s Law?

What is Bikur Cholim? The Importance of Visiting the Sick in the Jewish Faith

Miller Intro to Judaism Program

A Code of Jewish Ethics by Joseph Telushkin

Rabbi Jonathan Sachs “Covenant and Conversation” Box Set

Show more...
1 week ago
1 hour 17 minutes 14 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Being Trans & Jewish with CoverGirl model Madison Werner

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


Madison Werner has been a trailblazer in the transgender and Jewish communities, becoming the first transgender CoverGirl model in 2024 and using her platform to inspire hundreds of thousands worldwide. With pride, compassion and honesty, she shares her story of identity, faith, and belonging.


In this episode of 30 Minute Mensches, Madison joins Jonah Platt to open up about navigating life as a Jewish and transgender woman - two powerful identities she refuses to separate. Since October 7th and the Israel/Hamas war, Madison has spoken out about the complexities many LGBTQ+ Jews face in balancing their support for Israel with acceptance in queer spaces. Through it all, she’s led with empathy, courage, and curiosity challenging brands, re-examining friendships, and deepening her connection to Jewish values.


Madison also shares:

  • Her experiences at Tel Aviv Pride
  • What it was like sheltering in Israel during the Iranian rocket attacks
  • Growing up in a Jewish day school
  • What Jewish teachings say about gender and transgender identity


This is a powerful, deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, and faith in today’s world.


Listen to Madison Werner on 30 Minute Mensches with Jonah Platt - where modern Jewish voices share stories of courage, compassion, and community.


Connect with Madison

Follow Madison Werner on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/madisonwerner/?hl=en 


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Mentioned in Episode

  • B’Tselem Elohim: Jewish Concept That We’re All Born in God’s Image
  • JQ International
  • JQ International Honors Henry Platt
  • Facebook Video
  • Navigating Jewish-Queer Identity in the Wake of October 7th
  • Insider Israel’s Vibrant LGBTQ Community
  • Understanding LGBTQ Rights in Israel
  • Understanding The Horseshoe Theory in Politics
  • Follow Feminist on Instagram
  • Madison Werner Becomes First Transgender Model To Represent Covergirl
  • The Seven Genders in the Talmud
  • The Road to the Iran-Israel War
Show more...
2 weeks ago
26 minutes 32 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Bullsh*t Behavior & Central Synagogue’s Rabbi Angela Buchdahl

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


In an episode that beautifully blends trailblazing with tradition, Jonah Platt sits down with Rabbi Angela Buchdahl of New York’s Central Synagogue to discuss her powerful new book, Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Story of Faith, Identity and Belonging. Together, they explore what it means to live JEWISHLY today — drawing on timeless wisdom, personal reflection, and ancient storytelling.


From conversations about conversion and inclusion to reflections on optimism and belonging in a fractured world, Rabbi Buchdahl brings her signature depth and compassion to every topic. Much like her weekly sermons, streamed by millions around the globe every week, this discussion feels both timely and timeless, landing perfectly on the Jewish calendar as she reflects on the meaning of Simchat Torah and Shemini Atzeret.


At the heart of the episode — and of Rabbi Buchdahl’s book — lies a profound idea: that to be Jewish often means to feel like a stranger - usually a sentiment that feels isolating but when embraced can be inspiring, empathetic and purposeful. Don’t miss this thoughtful and uplifting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt.


Connect with our guest


  • Follow Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl on Instagram
  • Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging
  • Who is Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl?


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell


Mentioned In Episode

  • Van Orden of Wisconsin Beats Cooke in 2024 Race
  • Early Polls Indicate Rebecca Cooke & Derrick Van Orden Nearly Neck And Neck
  • Rebecca Cooke Calls For US to Halt Arms To Israel
  • What is the Foundation To Combat Antisemitism (FCAS) Currently Blue Square Alliance Against Hate?
  • FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Ads
  • Blue Square Alliance “When There Are No Words” Campaign
  • FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Tom Brady & Snoop Dogg Ad
  • Most Recent FCAS/Blue Square Alliance Ad
  • Why Are Less People Smoking Today?
  • Bill Maher’s Statements About Israel (Facebook)
  • Bill Maher’s Statements About Israel (Instagram)
  • Why & How Did Israel Fail To Deliver Aid in Gaza?
  • Humanitarian Aid in Gaza: What’s Really Happening?
  • UN Data Show Most Aid to Gaza Looted
  • Stream Central Synagogue’s Services
  • The Neighborhood at Central Synagogue - Remote/Streaming Membership
  • Women in Judaism: A History of Women’s Ordination as Rabbis
  • Sports History: Michael Jordan Didn’t Make His High School Basketball Team
  • In the Spotlight with Abigail Pogrebin on JBS
  • The History of the Female Rabbi
  • Discover Temple Beth El—A Vibrant Jewish Community in the Heart of Tacoma
  • Korean Women’s Association in Tacoma (Pioneered by Rabbi Buchdahl’s Mother)
  • Are We Ashkenormative or Ashkefardic?
  • Jewish Infighting Is a Gift to Antisemitism
  • What is an Erev Rav? A Mixed Multitude Coming out of Egypt
  • Diversity in the State of Israel
  • Why Is Jewishness Matrilineal?
  • Did Judaism Use to Practice Patrilineal Descent?
  • Understanding Ezra & Judaism
  • Zera: A Seed in the Garden
  • The Dissolving of Marriages in Ezra 9-10 and Nehemiah 13 Revisited
  • Jewish Federation on “The Surge” of Jewish Practice & Connection Post 10/7
  • Why Jews Are Leaving The Fold
  • Mashber: Hebrew Word for “Crisis”
  • What is Kol Nidre?




Show more...
2 weeks ago
1 hour 9 minutes 45 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Unpacking Better Israel Education with OpenDor Media’s Dr. Noam Weissman

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


What happens when Jewish education stops being about advocacy — and starts being about curiosity?


That’s the mission of Dr. Noam Weissman, Executive Vice President of OpenDor Media and host of the hit podcast Unpacking Israeli History. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah and Noam dive into how we teach, talk and think about Israel — and what it takes to build a generation of Jews who are both passionate and informed.


Noam shares:


  • Why “Israel education” should be about questions, not just advocacy
  • What he calls “goosebumps with complexity” — combining emotional connection with intellectual honesty
  • Why teaching young Jews that Israel is perfect does more harm than good
  • The untold story of the Altalena ship, and how it nearly tore Israel apart
  • Why Jewish summer camps and schools are key to rebuilding Israel literacy — and what real Zionism looks like in the 21st century


From school classrooms to TikTok feeds, Noam Weissman is revolutionizing how people learn about Israel and Jewish identity — blending history, heart, and hard truths. Listen now to hear how one educator is transforming Jewish learning for a new generation.


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Mentioned In Episode

  • Unpacking Israeli History Podcast
  • Unpacked Media
  • Unpacked for Educators
  • What Is ConnectEd? Jewish/Israeli Education For Broader Constituents
  • Wondering Jews Podcast
  • Who is Mijal Bitton?
  • Who Is Kimberly Hirabayashi?
  • Understanding Yom Ha’atzmaut: Israeli Independence Day (Unpacked)
  • How to Engage Students for Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom HaZikaron (Unpacked for Educators)
  • What Is The Altalena: Israel’s (Almost) Civil War?
  • Understanding German Reparations Post WWII
  • Who Are The Mizrahi Jews?
  • History of The Mizrahi Migration to Israel (Unpacked)
  • Jewish Refugees from Arab Countries (Jewish Virtual Library)
  • The Surprising History of Israel’s Black Panthers
  • Why Doesn’t Israel Have a Constitution?
  • Who is Philosopher Lev Vygotsky & What Were His Views on Zionism & Judaism?
  • Philosopher Jean Piaget & The Ties to Judaism
  • Julie Platt on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
  • Jonah Thinks We Should Stop Saying “Antisemitism”!
  • Herzl's Troubled Dream: The Origins of Zionism
  • Who is Ze’ev (Vladimir) Jabotinsky & What Are His Connections to Zionism?
  • Who Is Author David Suissa?
  • This Week in Jewish History | Palestinian Terrorists Kill 25 Hostages in Ma'alot Massacre
  • What is the Munich Massacre?
  • Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 1 – The Dreyfus Affair
  • Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 2 – Herzl & The Non-Promised Land
  • Unpacking Israeli History: Episode 6 – The Altalena (Israel’s Almost Civil War)
  • Who Is Menachem Begin?
  • Pre-IDF Brigades: Haganah, Irgun and Lechi
  • David Ben-Gurion
  • Who Is Ahmed Faoud Alkhatib? Palestinian-American Activist & Blogger
  • Who Is Mohammed Dajani Daoudi? Arab Scholar & Peace Activist
  • Who Is Haviv Rettig Gur? Israeli Journalist & The Times of Israel’s Senior Analyst
  • Camp Lavi: Jewish Sleepaway Camp in The Poconos
Show more...
3 weeks ago
29 minutes 22 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Remembering October 7th with Israeli Artist Tomer Peretz

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


On the second anniversary of October 7th, Jonah sits down with Israeli artist and advocate Tomer Peretz to discuss The 8 Project — an extraordinary initiative he launched in the aftermath of the attacks. Rooted in the symbolism of creation, resilience, and renewal, The 8 Project helps survivors of October 7th — from NOVA attendees and hostage families to soldiers and grieving parents — discover how art can be a powerful path to healing.


For Tomer, that lesson is deeply personal. In Israel for a wedding just days before the attacks, he witnessed the horror of October 7th firsthand. He put his emotions aside to volunteer with ZAKA, Israel’s emergency rescue organization, but the weight of it all eventually caught up with him. What helped him process the pain was art — a lifeline that not only restored his own hope, but reignited his belief in the strength of the Jewish and Israeli people. The results of that creative resilience were recently showcased at The Museum of Tolerance, featuring works from survivors across Israel. In this emotional and deeply meaningful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, Jonah and Tomer explore the power of art therapy, the unbreakable connection between creativity and faith and the urgent importance of sharing the stories of those who survived. 


Connect with Our Guest

  • Follow Tomer Peretz: www.instagram.com/tomerperetzart
  • The 8 Project: https://the8project.org/
  • TomerPeretz.com: https://tomerperetz.com/


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald; Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell


Mentioned In Episode

  • Zaka
  • “The Light Will Win” Museum of Tolerance to Feature Oct 7th Inspired Artwork from Noted Israeli Artist, Tomer Peretz
  • Artist Tomer Peretz Volunteers with ZAKA in Israel
  • Israeli-American Describes Sheer Horror of Clearing Bodies from Hamas Terrorist Attack
  • Award-Winning Artist Tomer Peretz Pulls Off Unexpected ‘Live Art’ Flash Mob at Art Basel in Miami, FL
  • The True Horror of ‘Globalize the Intifada’
  • Coverage of Oct 12 Lynch in Ramallah
  • Golani: Serving With Pride Since 1948
  • Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: Spreading Culture & Unity Through Jewish Food, Israeli-American Chef Michael Solomonov
  • Native Dies as Israeli Soldier (David Solomonov)
  • Israel and Palestine | Middle Ground Roundtable
  • What Is A Kibbutz? The Roots of Israel’s Communal Villages
  • Shifts in Attitudes Regarding Peace Amongst Kibbutzniks
  • A Lifeline of its Own
  • As Volunteers Step In for State, Gaza Border Towns Begin Rebuilding from Oct. 7 Ashes
  • Who is Barak Hiram of the IDF?
  • Controversial Commander Barak Hiram Named Next Gaza Division Chief
  • Who Is the IDF General Who Ordered Tank Fire on a Kibbutz Home with 13 Hostages Inside?
  • Tomer Peretz’s UNBREAKABLE Exhibit
  • UNBREAKABLE Exhibit Video
  • What is The Significance of The Number 8 in Judaism?
  • Tomer Peretz Creates 1,200 Person Memorial Exhibit for 10/7


Show more...
3 weeks ago
1 hour 6 minutes 39 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Wisdom from Beyond the Veil with Jewish Psychic & Energy Healer Jana Stern

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


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After being clinically DEAD for 11 minutes, Jana Stern returned to life with a mission: Help others honor their true essence and bring light to the world. That’s the story of Jana Stern — Jewish psychic, astrologer, and spiritual healer. In this unique episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jana opens up about her near-death experience, her lifelong connection to ancestral wisdom, and how Jewish identity and Kabbalah align with her work. She also gives Jonah a spiritual energy reading live on air! 


Jana shares:

  • Her 11 minutes “beyond the veil,” encountering ancestors and choosing to return to this world
  • How hearing voices — once feared as schizophrenia — became the foundation of her spiritual gift
  • The Jewish roots of astrology, Kabbalah, and metaphysics, and why she says this wisdom is “ours”
  • How Shabbat, rituals, and Torah teachings are deeply tied to spiritual energy
  • Why she believes there are no coincidences — only divine coordination and manifestation
  • How trauma, tragedy, and loss can still be part of a higher purpose for growth and healing


From astrology charts and synchronicities to Shabbat candles and Jewish ancestry, Jana brings a unique lens on spirituality, Judaism, and healing in the modern world.


Listen now to explore how Jewish wisdom and mysticism can bring meaning and healing to modern life.


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Mentioned In The Episode

  • I’m Really Into “That Stuff” — Jana Stern’s Podcast
  • Janastern.com
  • Anchor & Orbit — Jana Stern’s Newsletter
  • What is Gematria?
  • Kabbalah and Mysticism 101
  • Own Your Fucking Intuition
  • "Manifest A New Reality with the Power of Your Mind" - Dr Joe Dispenza
  • “My ADHD Diagnosis Changed My Life!” How Jonah Platt Discovered his Full Authentic Self


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1 month ago
31 minutes 14 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Self-Inflicted Doomscrolling and Seinfeld Star Jason Alexander

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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We’re Back! I In this very special season premiere of Being Jewish, Jason Alexander, who gave us the iconic George Costanza from Seinfeld, joins Jonah Platt to discuss Jewish identity, cultural Judaism vs. religion, his work as a proud Jew and activist supporting Israel, and the impact of October 7th. The legendary actor, Tony Award-winner, and generational TV comedy icon kicks off the new season in a deep and honest conversation. Jason Alexander cares about the children; he is not interested in belonging to a group and would rather build bridges and not borders, learn why this Mensch is truly a Master of His Domain. 


Jason Alexander discusses his personal faith and the distinction between cultural Judaism (a "shirt I can't take off") and formal religious doctrine. He shares the emotional weight of being a Jew since October 7th and his long-standing commitment to Jewish philanthropy, including organizations like Magen David Adom, the ADL, and Jewish Federation. He clarifies the story behind his stage name change from Jay Scott Greenspan to Jason Alexander. 


If that’s not enough, Jason gives us his unbelievable inside stories from working on Seinfeld and tells us about the one episode that even he thought pushed the boundaries taste too much. 


Connect with Our Guest

  • Follow Jason Alexander on Instagram
  • Jason Alexander’s IMDB Page
  • Jason Alexander Hosts Cancer Research Fund August 5 Virtual Gala


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones, Story Producer Sean Leviashvili, Editors Diana DeCilio & Jacob Kindber, and Executive Assistant Jax Santiago of Rainbow Creative; Chief Business Officer Kenyon Laing, Executive Assistant Josie Rothschild; Research Associate Samantha Greenwald;  Associate Producer Rachel Stern; YouTube Consultants - Zac Stein & Jason Al-Samarrie - Production Assistant, Charlie Zuker; Interns Sasha Nelson & Emma Webb; & Graphic Designer, Noah Bell


Mentioned In Episode

  • How Many American Adults Actually Use Social Media? Pew Research Report
  • Advanced Technique with Jason Alexander
  • Entrepreneur & Bridge-Builder Daniel Lubetzky
  • Wilshire Boulevard Temple
  • Jason Alexander Post for Ohad Munder-Zichri
  • Over 4,000 Hollywood Actors & Directors Boycott Israeli Productions in Name of Gaza
  • 24/7 Seinfeld Online Stream
  • Watch Seinfeld on Netflix
  • Bryan Cranston as Tim Whatley on Seinfeld Season 8, Episode 19: “The Yada Yada”
  • Seinfeld, Season 5, Episode 5: “The Bris”
  • Seinfeld, Season 3, Episode 3: “The Pen”
  • Jason as Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” at La Mirada
  • Jonah Platt and Mark Whitten sing “The Riddle Song” from “Floyd Collins” at La Mirada Theater, 2014
  • Jason Alexander Returns to ‘Broadway Bound’ as Director
  • About Neil Simon
  • The Neil Simon Collection
  • If I Forget, Directed by Jason Alexander
  • PeaceWorks Foundation (formerly OneVoice Movement)
  • Anti-Defamation League
  • Jason to Direct “Sweeney Todd” at La Mirada Theater



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1 month ago
1 hour 7 minutes 4 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
WE’RE BACK, BABY! All-New Season 2 of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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Season 2 premieres THIS TUESDAY September 30th! And we’ll continue dropping 30 Minute Mensches every Thursday. A double dose of BJJP every week!


This season features more incredible guests beginning with Jason Alexander, Tomer Peretz, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Sarah Hurwitz, Sarah Podemski & Lani Anpo, Jake Tapper and many more!


Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts to make sure you don’t miss a moment!

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1 month ago
1 minute 29 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Living as a Proud, Public New York Jew with “Boy With No Job” Ben Soffer

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

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Follow Being Jewish on:

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What does it mean to live proudly and publicly Jewish in New York City, with the possibility of Zohran Mamdani as mayor looming large? Ask Ben Soffer, better known as @BoyWithNoJob to his over 1 million followers online. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Ben — CEO of Spritz Society wine cocktails, co-host of the hit Good Guys podcast with Josh Peck, husband to viral creator Claudia Oshry (Girl With No Job), and proud modern Orthodox Jew — to talk about faith, family, social media, and Jewish pride in today’s charged climate. Together, Jonah and Ben dig into


  • How Ben built a unique modern Orthodox identity on his own terms
  • What it feels like to wear a kippah on the streets of New York amid rising anti-Jew bigotry
  • The effect October 7th had on his Jewish identity…  or didn’t?
  • How becoming a father deepened his sense of connection to God and Jewish continuity
  • The story behind Spritz Society — and how a viral April Fool’s joke turned into a real-life savory cocktail courtesy of Claussen’s Pickles!


From candid takes on community safety to spreading Jewish joy through humor (and beverages!), Ben Soffer embodies what it means to be unapologetically yourself — and unapologetically Jewish — in the digital age. Listen now to hear how one of the internet’s most authentic voices is shaping Jewish identity for a new generation.


Connect with Our Guest

Ben Soffer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boywithnojob/ 

Ben Soffer & Josh Peck’s Podcast “The Good Guys” https://www.instagram.com/goodguys/


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Editor: Jacob Kindberg; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Mentioned In Episode

  • Jonah’s appearance on The Good Guys podcast “Mazel, Moses”
  • Spritz Society
  • Camp Ramah
  • NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani’s Comments About Globalizing The Intifada
  • 'All Jewish Americans are questioning their security' after violent antisemitic attacks
  • College group Zohran Mamdani co-founded welcomed radical speaker who later blamed US for 9/11 attacks: ‘Made its bed’
  • Socialist NYC mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani once rapped about his ‘love’ for Hamas terror-funding group ‘Holy Land Five’
  • AJC Survey Shows American Jews are Deeply and Increasingly Connected to Israel
  • Ouri’s Market - Upper East Side, NYC
  • What Does The Word Neshama Mean?
  • 23andMe Is Under Fire. Its Founder Remains ‘Optimistic’
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1 month ago
30 minutes 49 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
What is the Purpose of Judaism? Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin Has The Answer… And It’s Not What You Think!

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

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X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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TikTok - @BeingJewish


What does it mean to reclaim Judaism not in the synagogue — but at the family table? That’s the vision of Rabbi David Bashevkin, author, podcaster, educator and one of today’s most engaging Modern Orthodox voices. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Rabbi Bashevkin to explore how Judaism can speak authentically to modern life and why Jewish identity is ultimately about integrating our “unchosen” identities with the “chosen” ones.


Rabbi Bashevkin shares:


  • Why Jewish life must begin in the home, not in synagogues or textbooks
  • How Judaism helps us integrate our unchosen identity (family, history, peoplehood) with our chosen paths in life
  • The importance of 1840 — a mystical year that reshaped Jewish thought, technology, and modern identity
  • Why Jewish education must instill a love of lifelong learning– not just through graduation
  • The urgent need for bridge-building within the Jewish community — and how to turn religious difference into dialogue
  • Why teens crave authenticity, and how NCSY empowers them through peer-to-peer mentorship
  • The challenge of negative Orthodox representation in the media — and why Judaism is meant for the imperfect among us


Rabbi Bashevkin’s work through his platform 18Forty (essays, podcasts, and conversations at 1840.org) opens the door for “post-institutional Jews” and anyone searching for meaning beyond the classroom. Listen to this episode to find out why Judaism isn’t just about survival or fighting antisemitism — it’s about rediscovering purpose, family, and the sanctity of everyday existence.


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo' Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson. Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


More on Dovid Bashevkin


  • 18Forty Website
  • Follow Rabbi Bashevkin on X


Mentioned in Episode


  • Listen to 18Forty Podcast (Apple Podcasts)
  • Watch the 18Forty Podcast on YouTube
  • Essays by Rabbi David Bashevkin
  • What Makes A Jewish Home?
  • What Is The Significance of The Year 1840?
  • Understanding The Zohar & The Significance of the Year 1840 for Jews
  • The Sixth Millennium & The Age of Moshiach
  • What is The Zohar?
  • What Jewish Education Means To Me by Rabbi David Bashevkin
  • Here All Along by Sarah Hurwitz
  • Sarah Hurwitz on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt (Season 1)
  • Parashat Vayehi: Teach A Child According To Their Way
  • Who is Rabbi Moshe Hayim Luzzatto?
  • An Appreciation of Rav Yitzchok Hutner
  • Who is Martin Buber?
  • Phish Rendition of Avinu Malkeinu
  • A Brief Biography of The Lubavitcher Rebbe
  • Questions & Answers on Moshe & The Angels
  • What is NCSY? National Conference of Synagogue Youth


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1 month ago
31 minutes 24 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Anti-Jew Propaganda in the Hispanic World with Fuente Latina CEO Leah Soibel

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


In this eye-opening episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Leah Soibel, an Argentine-American Jew and the founder and CEO of Fuente Latina, to explore her remarkable journey — from studying across the Middle East during the Second Intifada to becoming a leading voice for Latino-Jewish allyship. Leah spent years immersed in Cairo, Beirut, and beyond, before building the first organization dedicated to connecting Spanish-speaking journalists with accurate, on-the-ground stories from Israel.


Leah shares:


  • Her experiences as the only American Jew debating at a “Mock Arab League” in Cairo — and what she learned about misunderstanding vs. hatred
  • How traveling solo across Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza shaped her perspective on media, politics, and truth
  • Why she founded Fuente Latina — and how it bridges the gap between Israel and over 500 million Spanish speakers worldwide
  • The rise of antisemitism in Spain — and the quiet network of allies working behind the scenes
  • Why Latin American immigrants to Israel were among the hardest hit on October 7th — and the powerful new docuseries sharing their stories
  • Why U.S. Latinos, the fastest-growing voting bloc, may be the strongest future allies for Israel and the Jewish community


Leah’s story is one of courage, strategy, and vision — showing how truth and relationships can combat misinformation and build bridges across cultures. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Listen now and join the movement for Latino-Jewish allyship.


More On Leah Soibel


  • Fuente Latina
  • Follow Fuente Latina on Instagram
  • Follow Fuente Latina on TikTok
  • Fuente Latina on YouTube
  • Contact Leah Soibel


Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew ‘MoJo’ Jones; Story Producer: Sean Leviashvili & Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère. Editor: Jacob Kindberg and Kevin Maynard; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Mentioned in Episode

  • 710 Testigos Del Terror: A Film About The Latin-Israelis Affected by 10/7
  • Rioting Erupts As Ariel Sharon Visits Temple Mount
  • Palestinian Population in Chile
  • Iran Launches Spanish Network in 2012
  • Jonah’s Episode with Stuart Weitzman
  • Five Things To Know About Anti-Jewish Hate in Spain
  • Latin Population in the United States by the Numbers
  • How Latinos Voted in 2024 Election
  • Many Latinos Aspire To Visit Israel & The Holy Land
  • Israel Recovers Body of Mexican Held Hostage in Gaza
  • Latino Jews Grieve, Worry As Attack in Israel Puts Close Family Ties in Focus
  • A Latina’s Experience Living Near the Israel-Gaza Border
  • Testimony from Alejandra Lopez - A Latina 10/7 Survivor
  • What Dave Chapelle’s SNL Monologue Got Right & Wrong About Antisemitism in America


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1 month ago
30 minutes 40 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
There’s No One Way to Orthodox with Jewish TikTok Star Melinda Strauss

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

beingjewishpodcast@gmail.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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Melinda Strauss is a modern Orthodox Jewish influencer and food blogger who passionately believes that Jewish joy is resistance and Jewish presence is power. Her digital journey began with a singular mission: to share, educate and enlighten others about the richness of Orthodox Jewish life. Feeling consistently misrepresented and misunderstood, Melinda took it upon herself to authentically showcase Orthodox Jewish identity to the world.

What started with kosher recipe videos quickly grew into a powerful platform that highlights Jewish traditions, such as putting on Tefillin or wearing a Yarmulke. Her content has been met with some hate - but more curiosity and compassion. Today, Melinda Strauss is a vocal advocate for Jewish people, using her voice to increase visibility, fight anti-Jewish bigotry and celebrate Jewish heritage and culture globally — and she’s only just getting started.

In this conversation with Jonah, Melinda discusses:

  • The current climate and safety concerns facing the global Jewish community 
  • Melinda’s upcoming kosher cookbook Eat Jewish: 100 Recipes That Blend Jewish Heritage, Modern Flavors and Family Traditions 
  • Her personal journey living with Type 1 Diabetes
  • Her nuanced thoughts on certain Jewish laws, including The Get 
  • The rich, diverse, and evolving tapestry of Orthodox Jewish identity 

Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!)

https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6


Host & Production Team

Host/Creator: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


More Melinda Strauss

  • https://melindastrauss.com/
  • https://www.tiktok.com/@therealmelindastrauss

Mentioned in Episode

  • Order Melinda’s Cookbook– Eat Jewish: Over 100 Recipes That Blend Jewish Heritage, Modern Flavors and Family Traditions
  • Montana Tucker on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 1
  • Baby Ariel on Being Jewish with Jonah Platt - Season 1
  • “When They Go Low, We Go Chai” T-Shirt
  • Melinda’s Viral Video About Her Nephew Wrapping Tefillin
  • What Is A Get? Understanding Divorce Law in The Orthodox Jewish Community
  • What is Modern Orthodox Judaism?
  • Understanding The “Niddah” or Family Purity Laws of Judaism
  • Everything You Need To Know About The Mikvah
  • Melinda’s Post-10/7 Video
  • Melinda’s Posts About Her Journey with Type-1 Diabetes (Video 1)
  • Melinda’s Posts About Her Journey with Type-1 Diabetes (Video 2)
  • What Is The Difference Between Type One & Type Two Diabetes?
  • Melinda’s Article About Eating Healthy For The Holidays
  • Diabetes Barbie
  • A Brief Jewish History About The Pickle Business of The Lower East Side
  • Irving Naxon, Jewish Inventor of the Slow Cooker
  • Melinda Strauss’s Sweet & Sour Tongue Recipe

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1 month ago
26 minutes 30 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Israeli Michelin Chef Eyal Shani - Uniting Humanity Through Food

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

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In this deliciously inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with world-renowned Israeli Chef Eyal Shani — the culinary visionary behind Miznon, HaSalon, Malkah, and dozens of other Israeli restaurants around the globe. As a ninth-generation Jerusalemite with no formal culinary training, Chef Eyal has redefined Israeli cuisine and hospitality while carrying out a mission much bigger than food– spreading positive energy, peace, and connection with each bite. Just days after the horrific October 7th attack, Chef Eyal was awarded the coveted Michelin star for his New York restaurant Shmone, but chose not to attend the ceremony. Why? He was busy cooking thousands of meals for soldiers on the Gaza border, embodying his belief that food is truly about people, not prizes.

Together, Jonah and Chef Eyal explore:

  • Why he treats every ingredient — from cucumbers to prime rib — as a living “creature” with a will and a story
  • The night violent anti-Israel agitators attacked the Melbourne branch of his restaurant Miznon, and how Lebanese neighbors saved his team’s lives
  • How his deep connection to the Palestinian women of the Jerusalem markets inspired his earliest dishes
  • Why he believes food can reunite Israelis and Palestinians — and create “a new Israel” after war
  • His vision for opening a boutique hotel and restaurant on the Gaza border as a symbol of renewal

Chef Shani’s philosophy is radical yet simple: there are no borders in food, only human beings. Don’t miss this extraordinary conversation with a chef whose cooking has become a language of hope. Listen to the full episode now and be part of the conversation.


Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!)

https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6

All Things Chef Eyal!

  • Chef Eyal Shani’s Instagram
  • Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Miznon
  • Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant HaSalon
  • Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Malka
  • Chef Eyal Shani’s Restaurant Shmoné

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Editor: Kai Patterson; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell; Production Assistant: Emma Webb; Theme Music by Gabriel Mann

MENTIONED IN EPISODE 

  • Melbourne’s Minzon Attacked by Pro-Hamas Protestors
  • Lebanese Brothers From Minzon’s Neighboring Restaurant Intervene to Protect Minzon
  • Iranian Missile Strikes on Israel
  • Chef Eyal Shani Receives Michelin Star for Restaurant Shmone
  • Chef Eyal Shani Cooks for IDF Troops the Same Day He Wins Michelin Star
  • Timeline of The History of Jerusalem
  • Chef Eyal Shani Set To Open Restaurant Near Kibbutz Nir Am
  • Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy
  • Where to find Leroy Borgougne Rouge
Show more...
2 months ago
27 minutes 43 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
Should Music Be Political? With Grammy-Winning Jewish Musician Joanie Leeds

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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It’s music meets mishpacha in this heartfelt new episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches! Grammy-winning Jewish children’s music artist Joanie Leeds joins Jonah to share stories about the triumphs and challenges of making Jewish music in today’s climate. They discuss the debut of her 12th studio album Ageless, an ode to multi-generational heritage and Jewish values. Joanie and Jonah also tackle the line between music as political expression and music as the universal language of unity.  They also get into:

  • 🎶 How Joanie turned banned children’s books into the protest album Freadom
  • ✡️ The challenges of advocating for a Jewish music category at the Grammys
  • 🎤 Collaborating with her daughter on song and on the stage
  • 📚 The greatness of Jewish hero Ruth Bader Ginsburg
  • 🎸 Balancing inclusivity and political messaging in family-friendly music

Press Play and join us for 30 minutes of music, meaning, and Jewish joy!

Being Jewish Listener Survey (please help us!)

https://forms.gle/rjvhcKgDD2yUknEw6


 All Things Joanie! 

  • Joanie Leeds’ YouTube Channel
  •  Joanie Leeds’ Spotify Channel
  •  Joanie Leeds on Apple Music
  •  Joanie Leeds’ Website
  •  Pre Order Joanie’s Album
  •  Add your name to Joanie’s Recording Academy Jewish Artists List!

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


MENTIONED IN EPISODE

  • Joanie’s Petition to Make a Jewish Music Grammy Category
  •  What does the Hebrew word “Ruach” mean?
  •  How Mister Rogers Tackled Taboo/Difficult Topics for Children
  •  Joanie wins her first Grammy
  •  Male Acts & Performers Dominate 2018 Grammy Nominations
  •  Coldplay’s Chris Martin Welcomes Israelis & Palestinians at Concerts
  •  Rise in American Book Burning
  •  List of Banned Books
  •  Children’s Book: And Tango Makes Three
  •  Controversy Around Children’s Book “And Tango Makes Three”
  •  “FAUCI OUCHIE” by Joanie Leeds
  •  What is Banned Books Week?
  •  Who was Ruth Bader Ginsburg?
  •  Controversy Surrounding RBG’s Reluctance to Retire
  •  RBG’s Contributions to Female Financial Freedom
  •  Children’s Music Network (CMN)
  •  Joanie Leeds & Mikey Pauker Push For Jewish Music Category in The Grammys
  •  What is Grandparent’s Day?
  •  Joanie’s Upcoming Concert at the Kennedy Center
  •  90s Music Legend Lisa Loeb
  •  Lisa Loeb’s Instagram
  •  Lisa Loeb Dishes on Being A Jewish Mom
  •  “Camp Lisa” Lisa Loeb’s Foundation & Song
Show more...
2 months ago
28 minutes 37 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
The Secret History of Crypto-Jews with Mexican-American Jew Blanca Carrasco

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

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X - @JonahPlatt


Follow Being Jewish on:

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TikTok - @BeingJewish

What happens when you grow up Catholic in Mexico — and discover you’re secretly Jewish?

In this riveting episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Blanca Carrasco, a descendant of Crypto-Jews who only discovered her family’s secret heritage at age 50. Now the president of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, Blanca unpacks the unknown history of Crypto-Jews — descendants of Jews who secretly maintained their faith after being forced to convert during the Spanish Inquisition. Blanca shares her extraordinary journey to discover who her true family is. She’s a leader in the global movement helping descendants of forcibly converted Jews reclaim their heritage.

 Blanca opens up about:

  • 🕯️ How the Spanish Inquisition forced her ancestors to flee Spain and hide their Judaism for generations
  • ✝️ Being raised devoutly Catholic — and the moment she began questioning what she was taught
  • 🔯 Her path from Messianic Judaism to a full Jewish conversion
  • 📜 The Facebook post that led to the discovery of her secret family tree
  • 🎓 Her work with the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, and why their academic research has personal meaning for thousands of “Anusim” around the world
  • 🎬 A sneak peek into the Society's upcoming Los Angeles conference, including an opera, film screenings, and a genealogy workshop with Jeannie Milgrom

From Monterrey to El Paso, from the Church to the shul, Blanca’s story is a global tale of discovery, identity, and reconnection. Her life proves that history isn’t just in books — it’s in your blood. Hit play to discover how centuries of hidden history came full circle, and what Blanca’s story means for all of us.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew "MoJo" Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Sean Leviashvili); Editor: Post Relativity & Mike O’ Brien; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


MENTIONED IN EPISODE

  • Who Were the Crypto Jews? 
  • The Converso History
  • The Alhambra Decree
  • Ottoman Lands provided Safe Haven for Sephardic Jews Expelled from Spain
  • “Anuism” Meaning
  • Captain Marcos Alonso de la Garza del Arcón (1551-1634)
  • Inquisition on the Canary Islands
  • Messianic Jew Jonathan Settel
  • Who are Messianic Jews?
  • Rabbi Stephen Leon
  • Anusim Center of El Paso
  • Common Converso Names
  • Jewish Mourning Traditions (like Covering Mirrors)
  • What is Ladino?
  • Somos Primos Facebook Group
  • Ashkenazi vs Sephardic Jews
  • Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World
  • Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies
  • HaLapid Magazine
  • Crypto-Jews of Brazil
  • The Dönmes: Crypto-Jews under Turkish Rule
  • Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies Annual Conference in Los Angeles, August 10-12, 2025
  • Cuban-Jewish Author/Geneologist Genie Milgrom
  • What is a Mikvah?
  • A Long Journey: The Hidden Jews of the Southwest
  • Dona Gracia Mendes-Nasi
  • “La Señora” opera about Dona Gracia by Dr. Michelle Green Willner
Show more...
2 months ago
25 minutes 36 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
The Truth about Israeli Minorities with Lebanese Christian activist Jonathan Elkhoury

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.com


To contact us & all things BJJP:

www.BeingJewishPodcast.com


Follow Jonah on:

Instagram - @JonahPlatt

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Follow Being Jewish on:

Instagram - @BeingJewishPodcast

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What’s it like to be a gay Lebanese Christian — and proudly Zionist?


In this powerful episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with international Jonathan Elkhoury, a proud Israeli citizen who is challenging false media narratives and misconceptions about Israel one campus conversation at a time. Born in Lebanon to a father who fought alongside the IDF during Israel’s 1982 intervention in the Lebanese civil war, Jonathan fled Hezbollah rule and found refuge in Israel at age 9. He shares the harrowing story of his family’s escape, his emotional reunion with his father, and how Israel not only gave him safety, but also the freedom to live openly as a gay man — the only Middle Eastern country where that’s possible.

Jonathan also speaks out about:

  • 🏳️‍🌈 Israel’s track record on LGBTQ rights — and the lie of “pinkwashing”
  • 🎓 How he confronts anti-Israel misinformation on college campuses — even after being spat on, kicked, and targeted for his views
  • 🧱 How he combats "Israeli Apartheid Week" with the truth of his lived experiences
  • 👤 What it means to be a “minority within a minority within a minority” — and why he still stands with Israel
  • 📺 Why mainstream media — including the BBC — continues to fail on the Middle East
  • 🔥 The real reasons Israel went into Lebanon in 1982 — and the Palestinian terrorism that sparked a civil war

Jonathan’s story is a living example of intersectionality — and how true human rights work means defending people, not slogans. He is the voice anti-Israel activists try to silence. Don’t miss hearing him on this week’s can’t miss episode.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb); Editor: Rainbow Creative Team; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


Follow Jonathan on:

IG: @jon_elk

X: @Jonathan_Elk


MENTIONED IN EPISODE:

  • Jonah & Jonathan’s trip with Sharaka for March of the Living
  • Jonathan Elkhoury on Defying Stereotypes
  • Backgrounder on the 1982 Lebanon War
  • Lebanese Civil War
  • Anti-Israel “Apartheid Week”
  • Israel’s withdrawal from Southern Lebanon (2000)
  • Israel’s LGBT Rights Timeline
  • How Immigrants Boosted LGBTQ Rights in Israel
  • Lebanese Christians under the French Mandate
  • Timeline: The Rise, Spread, and Fall of ISIS
  • Israeli Christians Recruitment Forum
  • Israel’s Population Diversity
  • Israel defends Druze in Syria
  • Hassan Nasrallah Killed in Israeli Airstrike
  • Jonathan’s Post 10/7 Tweet


Show more...
3 months ago
30 minutes 59 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
The Wonderful World of Jewish Identity with Disney Animator Saul Blinkoff

Watch Being Jewish on YouTube:

www.youtube.com/@beingjewishpodcast


Subscribe to the Being Jewish Newsletter:

bit.ly/beingjewishnewsletter


For Sponsorships, please email:

Jonah@JonahPlatt.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


In this inspiring episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with acclaimed Disney animator, filmmaker, and motivational speaker Saul Blinkoff for a powerful conversation about Jewish resilience, Disney magic, and living a life of purpose. Together, they explore how timeless Jewish values are embedded in iconic animated films like The Lion King, and Saul speaks passionately about finding meaning in your Jewish identity every day, and the importance of living with responsibility and intention.

Saul reflects on his transformative trips to Israel as a guide with the nonprofit Momentum, and urges Jews worldwide to "LIVE FOR the Jewish people" as Israeli sons and daughters die to defend them. He and Jonah discuss how Jewish resilience, hope, and creativity can be antidotes to despair, even in the face of the horrors of October 7th. They also tackle:

  • ⁇ Was Walt Disney really an antisemite?
  • 🎬 The hidden Jewish values in your favorite Disney films 
  • 🇮🇱 Why Saul insists it’s safe (and necessary) to go to Israel right NOW
  • 🌟 The miraculous story of Omer Shem Tov, who kept his hope and Jewish identity alive, even as a Hamas hostage in Gaza
  • And much more

If you’re looking for inspiration, wisdom, and practical ways to infuse your life with purpose and Jewish pride, this episode is a must-watch!

Subscribe for more episodes of 30 Minute Mensches and join the conversation about what it truly means to be Jewish today.

Host & Production Team

Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell


MENTIONED IN EPISODE:


All things Saul Blinkoff:

www.SaulBlinkoff.com

IG: @Saul.Blinkoff 

Life of Awesome Podcast

  • Highest Grossing Animated Movies in History
  • Who were the Sherman Brothers?
  • Was Walt Disney an antisemite?
  • “Path of the Just” 
  • Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato (RaMChaL)
  • Momentum Org
  • Rabbi Noach Weinberg
  • Crave!
  • “We Will Dance Again” (Nova Festival Documentary)
  • The Battle of Sderot
  • Kibbutzim Destroyed on October 7th
  • Tragedy at Nahal Oz
  • “The Killing Roads” documentary
  • Iran lost more Generals in 12 Days than US in Both World Wars
  • “Not That There’s Anything Wrong with That!”
  • Omer Shem-Tov Kept Shabbat in Captivity
Show more...
3 months ago
28 minutes 2 seconds

Being Jewish with Jonah Platt
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