Rabbi Angela Buchdahl

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue and author, joins to share insights on moral accountability and the significance of the High Holy Days during conflict. She discusses the challenges of unity in a divided Jewish community, her experiences as a rabbi of color, and the role of empathy in current events. The conversation also touches on the humanitarian implications of Israel's actions in Gaza and reflections on leadership and identity in today's world. It's a thought-provoking dialogue as we approach the new year.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, the first East-Asian ordained rabbi and leader at Central Synagogue, explores her journey of faith and identity in her memoir. She reflects on the impact of recent events, the longing for safety within community spaces, and the necessity of nuanced views on Israel and Palestine. Angela discusses her transformation from feeling like an outsider to embracing that perspective as a source of strength. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in fostering relationships, aiming to make Jewish wisdom accessible through her writing.

Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl, the first Asian American rabbi and author of Heart of a Stranger, joins Jonah to delve into her unique journey of faith, identity, and belonging. They explore the challenges of feeling like an outsider and how embracing that feeling can lead to empathy. Rabbi Buchdahl reflects on growing up with multiple identities, the lessons from her community-oriented mother, and the importance of inclusion in Judaism. Their conversation also touches on the meaning of rituals today, significantly highlighting how to connect with others while navigating the complexities of communal identity.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl discusses intermarriage in the Jewish community, emphasizing the need for acceptance and embracing. She challenges the pressure to marry within the Jewish community and shares the high intermarriage rate among non-Orthodox Jews. The chapter also discusses the importance of making conversion accessible and explores the essence of being Jewish. The speaker highlights the significance of unity and loyalty within the Jewish community.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, the first Asian American ordained as a rabbi and leader of Central Synagogue, discusses her complex feelings about Israel. She highlights how fear can numb empathy, making it risky to express nuance. Buchdahl critiques the rising trend of zero-sum empathy in society, attributing it to trauma and media manipulation. She emphasizes the importance of personal connections and storytelling to foster compassion. Her insights on generational views towards Israel and strategies for bridging divides within her congregation are both poignant and inspiring.

Carol Roth, a former investment banker and bestselling author, shares strategies for Americans to improve their financial well-being in 2026. She discusses the importance of cutting discretionary spending, understanding digital payment habits, and maximizing retirement contributions. Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, an interfaith leader, reflects on her journey and why unplugging from technology can enhance community ties. She also highlights the rising antisemitism and the need for empathy and connection in today's polarized world.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi at Central Synagogue, discusses her journey as the first Asian American rabbi and the challenges she faced. She shares insights on combating rising antisemitism, the importance of community, and the need to unplug from devices. Buchdahl emphasizes how her multifaith background has shaped her views on spirituality and leadership. She also highlights the significance of Shabbat as a time for reflection and connection, advocating for a society that values empathy and understanding across divisions.

Karl Rove, a veteran Republican strategist and former advisor to President George W. Bush, dives into the crucial gubernatorial races, analyzing the prospects of candidates like Jack Ciattarelli and the challenges faced by Winsome Sears. He discusses how controversies could sway voter dynamics. Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, the first woman and Asian-American to lead New York's Central Synagogue, shares insights from her book, emphasizing identity, community through Shabbat, and combating rising antisemitism. Their discussions offer a fascinating look at current political and social landscapes.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue in NYC and author of "Heart of a Stranger," discusses the challenges of expressing empathy amidst political divides. She reveals her fear of discussing Israel due to concerns about community fallout and reflects on shared suffering after crises. Buchdahl emphasizes the dangers of a zero-sum empathy mindset, linking her biracial upbringing to her commitment to compassion. She also highlights the importance of storytelling and listening as pathways to repair emotional connections and foster understanding.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, a prominent figure known for her insightful leadership in the Jewish community, joins the discussion on the poignant observance of Rosh Hashanah amid conflict. The conversation touches on resilience in the face of grief, emphasizing the community's unity and introspection during these turbulent times. They explore the emotional complexities of faith amid adversity, alongside reflections on hope, heroes, and the importance of connection as the New Year approaches. It's a heartfelt dialogue that weaves together history, identity, and the spirit of community.